tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142612192024-03-13T09:48:40.454-06:00deep thoughts by cynthiaCynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.comBlogger388125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-64184106275798602432020-05-06T10:08:00.000-06:002020-05-06T11:04:15.108-06:002x4 QuiltAnother quilt is done during this corona virus time! Lots of time at home means lots of time for sewing. I have been inspired by all the amazing 2x4 quilts, <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-quilt-is-nice-1095746/scrap-stack-quilt-6123225333" target="_blank">like this one</a> and <a href="https://filminthefridge.com/2017/03/13/sleeping-porch-2-x-4-quilt/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:+FilmInTheFridge+(Film+in+the+Fridge)" target="_blank">this one</a>. Mine is a twin-size quilt perfect for the foot of my king size bed or a couch quilt for two to cuddle under.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCggKscDFDCzEVx64Xoj5kbzPIvaJ_aXZY7GP2Jrxjm8e5WfHarvJf4ev9zNCCmpUIV4jIM2xA5hoo2EhHWGAuggfthyphenhyphenaMGvshV-yVVMElSwuX_ofjMsqxoaQrYZXpNTaJKsG/s1600/6843+2x4+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1232" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCggKscDFDCzEVx64Xoj5kbzPIvaJ_aXZY7GP2Jrxjm8e5WfHarvJf4ev9zNCCmpUIV4jIM2xA5hoo2EhHWGAuggfthyphenhyphenaMGvshV-yVVMElSwuX_ofjMsqxoaQrYZXpNTaJKsG/s640/6843+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-p0Tvy6Aca8JK2jqQfCJZsAMXiXSV7p8sqYmNkeSd2k2Utpi0fU2UlEnuSmi4LDdjKjaJhOmgpKNEUN4ccdt-iHPXJSeKlj6jiq-ycVQ1y3uH9cUTQmwsoou3AHnFrhZenR1b/s1600/6844+2x4+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1234" data-original-width="1600" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-p0Tvy6Aca8JK2jqQfCJZsAMXiXSV7p8sqYmNkeSd2k2Utpi0fU2UlEnuSmi4LDdjKjaJhOmgpKNEUN4ccdt-iHPXJSeKlj6jiq-ycVQ1y3uH9cUTQmwsoou3AHnFrhZenR1b/s640/6844+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here's the loose math to make your own:<br />
Cut 3" strips, sew together in alternating colors to make 4 strips altogether. I chose to use whites and grays for the background colors and bright colors for the main colors.<br />
<br />
Cut 5" strips from those 4-strip sections.<br />
<br />
My twin size quilt is 7x9 blocks, so I needed 63 blocks. Each blocks is 9"x10" before being sewn altogether.<br />
<br />
The back of the quilt was sent out for quilting. I chose a 'wood grain' pattern.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3lqp0kk5zzfrJFfZR4qUG2iZ-6XyTcQR3sg07qyvM4ARv_H8JovesofHqFpFHlIiMuQscOpnmWBJPsb6dyR5IM_NcB0Pt1z_OtINPvJ1TDpXpVTYSHGC7I1-gPLt4Ydkl4Uh/s1600/6846+2x4+quilt.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/AVvXsEiy3lqp0kk5zzfrJFfZR4qUG2iZ-6XyTcQR3sg07qyvM4ARv_H8JovesofHqFpFHlIiMuQscOpnmWBJPsb6dyR5IM_NcB0Pt1z_OtINPvJ1TDpXpVTYSHGC7I1-gPLt4Ydkl4Uh/s640/6846+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TErK0AJLIVRvk89hty8q1yUaCtHWZ7DMx-o15dGyh0Jddg6bWiCxb6T90M96cPb5vaB5UvcZJoK_3mXElivD_89925vMwGPLhPzphFOBrhLNZkIYqdSEtpeXKGMAZTHFtgl4/s1600/6845+2x4+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1245" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TErK0AJLIVRvk89hty8q1yUaCtHWZ7DMx-o15dGyh0Jddg6bWiCxb6T90M96cPb5vaB5UvcZJoK_3mXElivD_89925vMwGPLhPzphFOBrhLNZkIYqdSEtpeXKGMAZTHFtgl4/s640/6845+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="498" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wFO6dZSDEhljYGjrhZY0ClqNGpL8XYQkYsv-AKjg0DJ_me6H3C3ts9RLkCIzedJ2-xqZ7TjC98kRwi5k3iyFj-qnvE_HxKT6G3frsL_l04TUgQKxB_szRG4T8b_Y73ETceaK/s1600/6847+2x4+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1087" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wFO6dZSDEhljYGjrhZY0ClqNGpL8XYQkYsv-AKjg0DJ_me6H3C3ts9RLkCIzedJ2-xqZ7TjC98kRwi5k3iyFj-qnvE_HxKT6G3frsL_l04TUgQKxB_szRG4T8b_Y73ETceaK/s640/6847+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="434" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQakcVJaLO_XVHMk6QWU4vGJ0LQZkFSyUEZJ7VgGnM8y1Zi04kqi3V4leF_NjLESsjNC67eTn6h3rimDAuaU9992aqMAVyp2cFUNWi2gfP3hYHxGICKULamDEOoXvMniYpzN4Q/s1600/6848+2x4+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1222" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQakcVJaLO_XVHMk6QWU4vGJ0LQZkFSyUEZJ7VgGnM8y1Zi04kqi3V4leF_NjLESsjNC67eTn6h3rimDAuaU9992aqMAVyp2cFUNWi2gfP3hYHxGICKULamDEOoXvMniYpzN4Q/s640/6848+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHm-IT1WPsDEk65wrBVwqAv-tw9ZyFFfseLVAeee6dOcXp2C1uJU7fTxbwhomZMks4MDya1hWdPBeSd9PwEqfTi_hMUJtDdplct4A1loZXW7kiZlilB4_TUqSUfqOhr0uB5sbA/s1600/6849+2x4+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1352" data-original-width="1600" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHm-IT1WPsDEk65wrBVwqAv-tw9ZyFFfseLVAeee6dOcXp2C1uJU7fTxbwhomZMks4MDya1hWdPBeSd9PwEqfTi_hMUJtDdplct4A1loZXW7kiZlilB4_TUqSUfqOhr0uB5sbA/s640/6849+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Stacks of lovely quilts!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw79dcHrARAZjNsbErnORY6RXjxCC4YQbotD3qSB2iBoxlZKs_H3-Y1QqpACfoyKTvKfjO0T5xbwrk8M-U0RcNCNkJUyGdejZUqbHRJFoaBCf4r3sWPD3DjJeyT2yWeoQ9ePiM/s1600/6851+2x4+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw79dcHrARAZjNsbErnORY6RXjxCC4YQbotD3qSB2iBoxlZKs_H3-Y1QqpACfoyKTvKfjO0T5xbwrk8M-U0RcNCNkJUyGdejZUqbHRJFoaBCf4r3sWPD3DjJeyT2yWeoQ9ePiM/s640/6851+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twin size quilt are perfect for the foot of a king size quilt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrX3h0oKGt99N30lWeSCaC69gdmc3sOnCUcGEoT2V94tyYQ9wxP-3yXixVyDWsdwMkmuOv5O8PmrIMLyI0wRJFUVE2Md-mP-PhXGbAP6mktAm40xOPop-QVU_4r0FmLdxDTGZ/s1600/6855+quilt+tags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrX3h0oKGt99N30lWeSCaC69gdmc3sOnCUcGEoT2V94tyYQ9wxP-3yXixVyDWsdwMkmuOv5O8PmrIMLyI0wRJFUVE2Md-mP-PhXGbAP6mktAm40xOPop-QVU_4r0FmLdxDTGZ/s640/6855+quilt+tags.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I always embroider the year it was completed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEici3St9CheWR3c7oPbVEqOqTIdBb-gubQFH4ZqpSQPwGV3mwTc0mDlP4iCEThO4LBmlqL46I7VWyYZnezUwP2WhHQb97YzIjIdaNlTRcKKCwtspl4ZHYhxKI7Mm9OUPEiU6eCx/s1600/6853+2x4+quilt.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/AVvXsEici3St9CheWR3c7oPbVEqOqTIdBb-gubQFH4ZqpSQPwGV3mwTc0mDlP4iCEThO4LBmlqL46I7VWyYZnezUwP2WhHQb97YzIjIdaNlTRcKKCwtspl4ZHYhxKI7Mm9OUPEiU6eCx/s640/6853+2x4+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
vCynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-27509826269209821962020-05-04T10:04:00.001-06:002020-05-06T11:06:13.192-06:00Scrappy Strips QuiltI once sewed clothing for my kids when they were small. This blog is actually a chronology of all the things I sewed for them, thankfully, because I sure wouldn't remember all the lovely things I made with love for them.<br />
<br />
I have been seeing lots of strip quilts, <a href="http://aquiltisnice.blogspot.com/2018/09/matchstick.html?m=1" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/157696424439660955/" target="_blank">here</a>, and <a href="https://www.redpepperquilts.com/2015/09/worn-and-washed-strip-quilt-finished.html?m=1" target="_blank">here</a>, and I wanted to make a similar one.<br />
<br />
Here it is!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMiNasDqUQ4elp9dxXGO4YKV6qpybnOSxctLmZm-erIbqQUesebGpxOmisg18_hthWHpBaFM0HpbnQ4L1amlGkn1tig2HkL_hgohnMkyj_Shy0mix86q0akyNaRxByL2epzG8/s1600/6824+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMiNasDqUQ4elp9dxXGO4YKV6qpybnOSxctLmZm-erIbqQUesebGpxOmisg18_hthWHpBaFM0HpbnQ4L1amlGkn1tig2HkL_hgohnMkyj_Shy0mix86q0akyNaRxByL2epzG8/s640/6824+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" width="604" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpHhwnkiogJCIFyunoy17oGBBRomIosMZTd503B_2_S62Lm9JTLT56NOcnAIhaD780CvEbEPt9ZDVCKsm60KsAB8qAWQ84GUeKraxsBZGjnot89uqYJxD0aHkLadSStnqFOM_/s1600/6823+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpHhwnkiogJCIFyunoy17oGBBRomIosMZTd503B_2_S62Lm9JTLT56NOcnAIhaD780CvEbEPt9ZDVCKsm60KsAB8qAWQ84GUeKraxsBZGjnot89uqYJxD0aHkLadSStnqFOM_/s640/6823+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Most of the fabrics came from past projects, <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2010/05/smocks-for-girls.html" target="_blank">like this one</a>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEEF2qWeQ5Yuao3Eqna1VLV-vj_ckbMQJvy-F6k1Uxsr9JLqDKJWhNf_3o0FTN4KrL2WyNSDPW_AD0njRAvZ8dV9hzBzrlBPahShrlLHxS3lcTZajBcXj1WEkHHmL2OmVlHDo/s1600/smocks+for+girls+006+copy%255B5%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="640" height="463" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEEF2qWeQ5Yuao3Eqna1VLV-vj_ckbMQJvy-F6k1Uxsr9JLqDKJWhNf_3o0FTN4KrL2WyNSDPW_AD0njRAvZ8dV9hzBzrlBPahShrlLHxS3lcTZajBcXj1WEkHHmL2OmVlHDo/s640/smocks+for+girls+006+copy%255B5%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgSwq6RBacBx5WRBHP4KKULpNH8VENnp4dFnDCH5RiDGNUcNJfMZiLexkMRgPtHN7eEH9O1sI5K2ILF6rEHf1Cb3c6X6ulwd2HgZunUZa62F0Z4rrDYp53TOIPkCOhoCPJvAJ/s1600/6834+scrappy+strips+quilt.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/AVvXsEjKgSwq6RBacBx5WRBHP4KKULpNH8VENnp4dFnDCH5RiDGNUcNJfMZiLexkMRgPtHN7eEH9O1sI5K2ILF6rEHf1Cb3c6X6ulwd2HgZunUZa62F0Z4rrDYp53TOIPkCOhoCPJvAJ/s640/6834+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And this ruffled skirt:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi306DJ30rHaov2vrMugQFNlk4yubnp6Yew9zs0Gr_sBxTXxHgnplsaEkViixEYS_uPzT2DB7HDu7L0WWOg6H9MU3L8t1rpfreactC-Ji21W9gwSMMmZbQZb0M1aHx_J05zzW6w/s1600/hallie+skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="591" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi306DJ30rHaov2vrMugQFNlk4yubnp6Yew9zs0Gr_sBxTXxHgnplsaEkViixEYS_uPzT2DB7HDu7L0WWOg6H9MU3L8t1rpfreactC-Ji21W9gwSMMmZbQZb0M1aHx_J05zzW6w/s1600/hallie+skirt.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">scraps from this skirt are in the quilts, this daughter is 16 now!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It's a twin size quilt, perfect for a guest room.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhywF57vz7WLxyL1NYdQ6DSo0YG3zydTRdaJCRRkhjTO0fDToIarD53ZbvzPSlDUSiPMyUCW7jPpNafi-rUwFnZAV7krW_VAWUtmu0LJ7RFdL_juHIbFT1YRp17n9jdbLnrHGpZ/s1600/6830+scrappy+strips+quilt.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/AVvXsEhywF57vz7WLxyL1NYdQ6DSo0YG3zydTRdaJCRRkhjTO0fDToIarD53ZbvzPSlDUSiPMyUCW7jPpNafi-rUwFnZAV7krW_VAWUtmu0LJ7RFdL_juHIbFT1YRp17n9jdbLnrHGpZ/s640/6830+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglT98N6g-InLXgaghVj0kV3_Yx6wwFwWHgUeN8m-f8IDo5HaEI55wZHL0o1YJKfuaNhxmjjme83ZKg5Q1_6d2A5p6UnNAHOORuW6tEU84uJ9Prq1eeAESVS6FIGpEjituu5iPv/s1600/6833+scrappy+strips+quilt.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/AVvXsEglT98N6g-InLXgaghVj0kV3_Yx6wwFwWHgUeN8m-f8IDo5HaEI55wZHL0o1YJKfuaNhxmjjme83ZKg5Q1_6d2A5p6UnNAHOORuW6tEU84uJ9Prq1eeAESVS6FIGpEjituu5iPv/s640/6833+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I even used a scrappy binding, just grabbed a bunch of old leftover strips from past projects.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtThFaqKMcqFX9PjiGfRwxP2kyoyowIHV6tphNAjC4ckvHk4_SZVb8lsIU3IhsnrQTiyd8Itb0OtQqP8Hh0rOlB5wYjzWbXcv3VfHjDG9TU7TNiPFSjsLdnE85lGVTtn_TscR/s1600/6822+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtThFaqKMcqFX9PjiGfRwxP2kyoyowIHV6tphNAjC4ckvHk4_SZVb8lsIU3IhsnrQTiyd8Itb0OtQqP8Hh0rOlB5wYjzWbXcv3VfHjDG9TU7TNiPFSjsLdnE85lGVTtn_TscR/s640/6822+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<br />
Isn't that blue Hawaiian print scrumptious? My son wore that hat I made for him for years. He gets married this month, that's how long ago this was.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoG-W2440gXRqEyNXQnriEHvCnQlgGjoU8MW6LKWLuq1PbOiYZFYRzfDVDcLlQGFxtCfjuDaHUn4xtB_u7hF5lRQZmwgPlZYQFoQ330uk_rbvXeY5NLYAf9c8w6etvGUacj-x/s1600/may+2003+long+beach+aquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1278" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoG-W2440gXRqEyNXQnriEHvCnQlgGjoU8MW6LKWLuq1PbOiYZFYRzfDVDcLlQGFxtCfjuDaHUn4xtB_u7hF5lRQZmwgPlZYQFoQ330uk_rbvXeY5NLYAf9c8w6etvGUacj-x/s400/may+2003+long+beach+aquarium.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The quilting was sent out to a local company, it's just a bunch geometric squares. I am sure this will be loved for years to come as it took years to curate all these fabrics.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rnstD55z-sRvt_J8KhTr7KpDYvs2TDG676CeVsfRqUp3IzVcEFoQBHK5o3ccGCxZrF87K4g3SlKsv9dVKrJ2otrH5hr3sVZ1iifPS9Hz18JBuy8v_ySjGy0gTR-wiRlXOkzO/s1600/6827+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1600" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rnstD55z-sRvt_J8KhTr7KpDYvs2TDG676CeVsfRqUp3IzVcEFoQBHK5o3ccGCxZrF87K4g3SlKsv9dVKrJ2otrH5hr3sVZ1iifPS9Hz18JBuy8v_ySjGy0gTR-wiRlXOkzO/s640/6827+scrappy+strips+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3O7u2YWolYVqsuwvkEOOxV8aH5dSIpt8xf1BQVccClQKr6V6mGEjX5vmG0bIkvE99peivEoIiJxfjXmBPcX48BTfljE0lu5d_CmdM72IMqpkHZXSgNSlEYVUIRkTdNiSMhNvf/s1600/6854+quilt+tags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1600" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3O7u2YWolYVqsuwvkEOOxV8aH5dSIpt8xf1BQVccClQKr6V6mGEjX5vmG0bIkvE99peivEoIiJxfjXmBPcX48BTfljE0lu5d_CmdM72IMqpkHZXSgNSlEYVUIRkTdNiSMhNvf/s640/6854+quilt+tags.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I always embroider the year on my projects</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-16960558250311611692019-03-11T20:52:00.001-06:002019-03-11T20:52:30.918-06:00Blue & White Master Bath Remodel<br />
Reasons we remodeled our bathroom even though the house is only 13 years old.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2M9uE48CK7NVA6Vo7xem0kAhisZlzyi2xSB9OfLcPNER9Q0ncaaGXnGb-t6ocyaoMrTrBW5yic21gDwa82mArbjPFd84JwN3-Kwoo5pWRikKJu8YqwJWHBgqjMCCCv2-m-fGL/s1600/3929+bathroom.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/AVvXsEi2M9uE48CK7NVA6Vo7xem0kAhisZlzyi2xSB9OfLcPNER9Q0ncaaGXnGb-t6ocyaoMrTrBW5yic21gDwa82mArbjPFd84JwN3-Kwoo5pWRikKJu8YqwJWHBgqjMCCCv2-m-fGL/s640/3929+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
1. I don't care for brown countertops.<br />
2. I don't care for brown travertine tile.<br />
3. I don't care for knotty alder cabinetry.<br />
4. I don't like jetted tubs.<br />
5. I also don't like tubs not big enough that I can not be submerged. (I am 5'9). This bathroom is way too small for a separate tub.<br />
6. I don't like mirror slabs.<br />
7. I don't like crappy one-inch grout lines. The tile job was so bad we couldn't even have an air vent cover fit the floor vents in the floor. Who knows how many q-tips I lost down that hole?<br />
8. I wanted radiant heating in the floor because Utah has sucky winters and I was tired of playing Frogger, jumping from one floor mat to the next at 3am to avoid the glacially-cold floor.<br />
9. We needed a pocket door to let in more light from the one window. The entrance to the bathroom is pretty wide so the door blocked way too much light.<br />
10. Old vanity was too short for us tall peoples.<br />
<br />
I love my new white and blue bathroom. It's the perfect mix of modern and traditional for us. A modern walnut vanity, paired with traditional beveled mirrors. Classic subway tile, but modern faucets. You get the picture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmHey8vWqO49G_bF-YKOT7GcK7kPO7Daf6xXO3rdrGWLZXj8y44NWm7xaoamZUJ80Xo0hN7IJxk_ipOncTtAQkUTjB_0kD9aK2EuHjlnyqHNGQjRvOvynpBPTPGD3LiSgzMuq/s1600/3931+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmHey8vWqO49G_bF-YKOT7GcK7kPO7Daf6xXO3rdrGWLZXj8y44NWm7xaoamZUJ80Xo0hN7IJxk_ipOncTtAQkUTjB_0kD9aK2EuHjlnyqHNGQjRvOvynpBPTPGD3LiSgzMuq/s640/3931+bathroom.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JGNtCXgVGN4AMKjPCaBOIjzF607s8xXn4Q0SbQ5o_MwbEW5Y1U0KfDlzYo_8qoTDAN_hpRZWX2XaeRf8iJ_QyYZ82Y_x0bJcq-XXjPTsaLwzJfjdiaE043xpTXHYQ21MFpbP/s1600/3954+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JGNtCXgVGN4AMKjPCaBOIjzF607s8xXn4Q0SbQ5o_MwbEW5Y1U0KfDlzYo_8qoTDAN_hpRZWX2XaeRf8iJ_QyYZ82Y_x0bJcq-XXjPTsaLwzJfjdiaE043xpTXHYQ21MFpbP/s640/3954+bathroom.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three colors of tile: white, denim blue, gray floors in shower and bathroom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here it is before:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoL7lg_TaBoENFec_gjBSmN3M3XUREvefrBpRYSPqzFqJHgRUz4polItJF-ZG8879mYlSJPRQ3mf2CbQiU-rikfV5zVEs2xwOVorViPb8x9QZKgXQ3voD08sWCi6bCVCFKkNs/s1600/2153+master+bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1069" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoL7lg_TaBoENFec_gjBSmN3M3XUREvefrBpRYSPqzFqJHgRUz4polItJF-ZG8879mYlSJPRQ3mf2CbQiU-rikfV5zVEs2xwOVorViPb8x9QZKgXQ3voD08sWCi6bCVCFKkNs/s640/2153+master+bath.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: Travertine floor with enormous 1" grout lines</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now that the too-small tub is removed we have a nice spot for a stool, some shelves, and a place to hang our towels. We opted to take the subway tile all the way across this wall and up to the ceiling. It's a west facing window so I ordered a<a href="https://www.blinds.com/p/blindscom-signature-blackout-roller-shade/503430" target="_blank"> navy black-out roller shade</a>. And now the floors have radiant heating. Best decision ever. Warm tile in the winter is life changing. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTVnyZBThB_3bZHZYUNsq_0yKrEMHYCd0N7j78IfH-uWmPKY15S-by7Y5hE3P-6KZPqcZdjdbIAiLJoz8_1tW627zZ9k1tVer2qGK1AprjcjijiQ-Sxnw_7WaW7wXzUFGfG7c/s1600/3955+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTVnyZBThB_3bZHZYUNsq_0yKrEMHYCd0N7j78IfH-uWmPKY15S-by7Y5hE3P-6KZPqcZdjdbIAiLJoz8_1tW627zZ9k1tVer2qGK1AprjcjijiQ-Sxnw_7WaW7wXzUFGfG7c/s640/3955+bathroom.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After: No more tub!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is the same corner before:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8wTZf_mS7N1AuKoCluwuBPulpcGMPuYv_j_8pMKhbV4-9F-VIeSCnXdyp5JJ7mzuvRVQSu0LTK_vgYdcHWFFiVVld_e84Z3xVsgjVkymwNCKt-BTT6-OycJk9VnCir2kwVlQ0/s1600/2152+master+bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1069" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8wTZf_mS7N1AuKoCluwuBPulpcGMPuYv_j_8pMKhbV4-9F-VIeSCnXdyp5JJ7mzuvRVQSu0LTK_vgYdcHWFFiVVld_e84Z3xVsgjVkymwNCKt-BTT6-OycJk9VnCir2kwVlQ0/s640/2152+master+bath.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: Very small tub I used 2 times in 13 years.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nAzT0X-TT89Ix-VPJCqxn4YH2IUqk5FWevgtAGLbhECPAtUb97HI_LZHyVxRdA17Xqjz2yaNm_A8hK_0R3VZ7zu6mbKELvrNE8C6e7we51JiR3ceXIosX9Axaud2HlUY8KHN/s1600/IMG_9638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nAzT0X-TT89Ix-VPJCqxn4YH2IUqk5FWevgtAGLbhECPAtUb97HI_LZHyVxRdA17Xqjz2yaNm_A8hK_0R3VZ7zu6mbKELvrNE8C6e7we51JiR3ceXIosX9Axaud2HlUY8KHN/s640/IMG_9638.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wiring the floor for radiant heating.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I knew we would want a custom walnut vanity with big deep drawers (no cupboard doors!) that hold everything. The old vanity had very little storage. I found <a href="https://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod7920127&categoryId=cat11930014" target="_blank">this vanity from Restoration Hardware </a>as my inspiration, then had it custom made. Guess what? It was about $2,000 custom made, compared to $3,500 from RH. Score!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.potterybarn.com/products/hollywood-oversized-rectangular-mirror/?cm_src=rel" target="_blank">These mirrors </a> topped with <a href="https://www.potterybarn.com/products/alcott-metal-glass-bath-fixture-double-sconce/?pkey=e%7Calcott%2Bdouble%2Bsconce%252C%2Bchrome%2Bfinish%7C21%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C48%7C%7C1&sku=4509568&group=1&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH" target="_blank">these light fixtures</a> take advantage of our 9-ft ceilings. They are super tall at 4-feet. The blue photo prints were taken by myself and overly saturated in blue; the <a href="https://www.minted.com/product/art/MIN-79F-GNA/kansas?color=A&shape=" target="_blank">black and white print is from Minted.</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1xpu7e3MBnv87Ht16-Ty0yfjVJhLqPK85OGUACb6vFtBFOt54Py-OpE0ia7HBiTnWH7tnqufTXG9InTqygIMSaq4Yo3hEx9ExsI85ZCCsfHbqsR7BJVS4J6QppugETZvB4ER/s1600/3941+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1087" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1xpu7e3MBnv87Ht16-Ty0yfjVJhLqPK85OGUACb6vFtBFOt54Py-OpE0ia7HBiTnWH7tnqufTXG9InTqygIMSaq4Yo3hEx9ExsI85ZCCsfHbqsR7BJVS4J6QppugETZvB4ER/s640/3941+bathroom.jpg" width="434" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjla9UlseeeYnT8tIigagX9E1hGKjcsue0hMWG-XWv6ouRsv9oBt8s1jv7OcIGmsVSvVMbx_TGWv4N5woI3ss3qweFeWgajkPKuauXIr0Pn5tgkFfzS825EOBz0dnHwGfYmMewd/s1600/3928+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjla9UlseeeYnT8tIigagX9E1hGKjcsue0hMWG-XWv6ouRsv9oBt8s1jv7OcIGmsVSvVMbx_TGWv4N5woI3ss3qweFeWgajkPKuauXIr0Pn5tgkFfzS825EOBz0dnHwGfYmMewd/s640/3928+bathroom.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New vanity is counter height</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvyDdf8KUv40aaxlsAllpkGkAPSINg7sccLFzP-nLTAfP-SqZ4PEdQu5yYe0clI35wT37cJCSlkRfRyDHU9X-gA06eunoEtDe8xD6hvtvucCmMFEy9y8Ap7A05tssKTrhm6YS/s1600/1709+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvyDdf8KUv40aaxlsAllpkGkAPSINg7sccLFzP-nLTAfP-SqZ4PEdQu5yYe0clI35wT37cJCSlkRfRyDHU9X-gA06eunoEtDe8xD6hvtvucCmMFEy9y8Ap7A05tssKTrhm6YS/s640/1709+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0xPHGhLRkegqQ4oc7_hMUcJ15C5bjf2e5wJ5gHMmso8bPa1zMen1n0Y0Vffy6W_RW4qQuMVZFpWM9suPtP82nXKETTEWV-YTpl3gyGgclGVSrlR0ImSQAbABLIeuUTHycE4g3/s1600/1704+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0xPHGhLRkegqQ4oc7_hMUcJ15C5bjf2e5wJ5gHMmso8bPa1zMen1n0Y0Vffy6W_RW4qQuMVZFpWM9suPtP82nXKETTEWV-YTpl3gyGgclGVSrlR0ImSQAbABLIeuUTHycE4g3/s640/1704+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Before: the drawers were too small to be of much use.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigve5xTzUJvAlZi9zxoLtRdLUvFOalj0VJcx0frMGw6JBWxT2OpbzR1UiHPRUCAPzr2vSJkL_cNv_UW5ZGlu1lR1X34TF36ui4g_8SwPpp-xsZqmRFRHWEyJBuvCe0lVuTmvyE/s1600/2149+master+bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1069" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigve5xTzUJvAlZi9zxoLtRdLUvFOalj0VJcx0frMGw6JBWxT2OpbzR1UiHPRUCAPzr2vSJkL_cNv_UW5ZGlu1lR1X34TF36ui4g_8SwPpp-xsZqmRFRHWEyJBuvCe0lVuTmvyE/s640/2149+master+bath.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old vanity, way too short</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had enough walnut leftover to make some floating shelves. Great for blown glass, art, and functional space as well.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-zwvNc2eNk_h7EEjWAWfwZNvl43FX-6GkglXev51x7E0bg0wstLLmECRi8HYqUFjEKMetNGo6Gvrq1UC9KgptfGtv_U4s4y3JXCaDm60TrK-fqnIh7nOUuwvDtkthWe7F0Su/s1600/3939+bathroom.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/AVvXsEh7-zwvNc2eNk_h7EEjWAWfwZNvl43FX-6GkglXev51x7E0bg0wstLLmECRi8HYqUFjEKMetNGo6Gvrq1UC9KgptfGtv_U4s4y3JXCaDm60TrK-fqnIh7nOUuwvDtkthWe7F0Su/s640/3939+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBLxxwRp8W-NwjS2M1NTTFC6NkXYhneVzDwwEAfYtnyexsDvJII-NOTz-4B1LmiH0ZeMWxpKdbD5Suho0bAId9IDaQxYADQl5pjtxO3UyRtF80_jO8qNEZmCXS0wZLavzWjUJ/s1600/3937+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBLxxwRp8W-NwjS2M1NTTFC6NkXYhneVzDwwEAfYtnyexsDvJII-NOTz-4B1LmiH0ZeMWxpKdbD5Suho0bAId9IDaQxYADQl5pjtxO3UyRtF80_jO8qNEZmCXS0wZLavzWjUJ/s640/3937+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The perfect spot to remove jewelry before showering.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My favorite feature, next to the radiant heating is replacing the big door, which blocked all the window light, with a pocket door. (You can read more about my <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2015/06/navy-blue-doors.html" target="_blank">navy doors here</a>, best decision to paint them blue four years ago.) Adding a pocket door meant ripping out the entire wall where you now see the shelves, to add all the hardware. I felt sorry for the subs who had to do such an arduous task. They also had to carefully remove the transom window which we absolutely wanted to save.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrbhEwV1MrnLvTDn-s-A90Xs8cKDfFTq_UJ4zuxEm_pOyRUTt4jmsHigC8YVmu_FUQ13Djkd2Lr9HCh4nhU-lrja4cNJN73mzwEO9swwK9qYQsPHRO3azMQ2EO9w39MKwx33c/s1600/3935+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrbhEwV1MrnLvTDn-s-A90Xs8cKDfFTq_UJ4zuxEm_pOyRUTt4jmsHigC8YVmu_FUQ13Djkd2Lr9HCh4nhU-lrja4cNJN73mzwEO9swwK9qYQsPHRO3azMQ2EO9w39MKwx33c/s640/3935+bathroom.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzjCeWU8olb02gO9MMicTMj8AwgbK5cAKhwREUdE3MXXszPsEP91C1rwEF1t01Us2CU_pir8I-O8TsobaeEsUZlqoxWVu0Te5hTHuO8KH6vXSEax-RoLOYLyLfHI9Irq2byrH/s1600/IMG_9548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzjCeWU8olb02gO9MMicTMj8AwgbK5cAKhwREUdE3MXXszPsEP91C1rwEF1t01Us2CU_pir8I-O8TsobaeEsUZlqoxWVu0Te5hTHuO8KH6vXSEax-RoLOYLyLfHI9Irq2byrH/s640/IMG_9548.JPG" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tearing out the old wall to add the pocket door.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZrtVmjPo7QY9sST6fBW6gZ8JQtFOy0MUXfJFZxRjS26ZqxF_ryRO72lvYY__4X8ZJwzrv1G7PAZIOU5B7QiQMGO2VphyphenhyphendgREZwg0UYzknLYOvV_JhYZ_HpiqZ8TtIgxMxGcA/s1600/3942+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZrtVmjPo7QY9sST6fBW6gZ8JQtFOy0MUXfJFZxRjS26ZqxF_ryRO72lvYY__4X8ZJwzrv1G7PAZIOU5B7QiQMGO2VphyphenhyphendgREZwg0UYzknLYOvV_JhYZ_HpiqZ8TtIgxMxGcA/s640/3942+bathroom.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pocket door</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_bFen2j9wyNtHRljWFIBkyixBxfrbMTSECSxFgksm7hisr0j4B8AYh2VBqTCha1jbh0-zXjf1LZhbUlkpCOlRS-bWk6ch50_e55axKJoDY2qP-eGu0dxlx5Mizq6YQCIyn7wu/s1600/3940+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_bFen2j9wyNtHRljWFIBkyixBxfrbMTSECSxFgksm7hisr0j4B8AYh2VBqTCha1jbh0-zXjf1LZhbUlkpCOlRS-bWk6ch50_e55axKJoDY2qP-eGu0dxlx5Mizq6YQCIyn7wu/s640/3940+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR1i7blRCTtaNRrVims4Ixt9-KttoDrPapQp9iIA0E2VUrftu7by3JSE__fRrcYsdxFr5li_Kbz9nx_dWbA-QmQE2sU94VeQpVHYOAstPdJDzMdOvUpOfhaXG51zWXMR4OoS0S/s1600/3946+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR1i7blRCTtaNRrVims4Ixt9-KttoDrPapQp9iIA0E2VUrftu7by3JSE__fRrcYsdxFr5li_Kbz9nx_dWbA-QmQE2sU94VeQpVHYOAstPdJDzMdOvUpOfhaXG51zWXMR4OoS0S/s640/3946+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">radiant heating thermostat for floors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've been living with this bathroom for 8 months now and honestly I would not change one single thing. Our contractor, Leah of L&D Construction in Provo, Utah was amazing as always. She is meticulous and demands perfection from her subs. She was in charge of our <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2012/01/kitchen-remodel-part-4.html" target="_blank">kitchen remodel</a> 7 years ago as well. Ok she has been in charge of all our remodels. The bathroom took about 4 weeks total. And it's a pain to remodel because this is how we lived in our bedroom for about a month.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgFcWkfMR1hdxJ2GTOy_uEa338YqfOGsgPn79IL0Gf4DlGjcqYiqFdpqPYHTgqeYJurUNG2AoHlxihgTI65JQETITu5UQ6_lSu2b4TXBYTx7EQ-nLlSv-alHldwMpiMN7LKmH/s1600/IMG_9658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgFcWkfMR1hdxJ2GTOy_uEa338YqfOGsgPn79IL0Gf4DlGjcqYiqFdpqPYHTgqeYJurUNG2AoHlxihgTI65JQETITu5UQ6_lSu2b4TXBYTx7EQ-nLlSv-alHldwMpiMN7LKmH/s640/IMG_9658.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fun of remodeling!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But worth it in the end!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7BgiTmB4y4xcVsfHD2SX14vxOEPyBnTkFXlS1BPXB0XPYgY3Ux3PKCw5c6mFYnkMpAm7DJ7TjuhZf3xsMe7_gNrp0ksns3IllylgwASdwmFK0hr7Ld8y8XDpy0bAKT2agXl4/s1600/3933+bathroom.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/AVvXsEhx7BgiTmB4y4xcVsfHD2SX14vxOEPyBnTkFXlS1BPXB0XPYgY3Ux3PKCw5c6mFYnkMpAm7DJ7TjuhZf3xsMe7_gNrp0ksns3IllylgwASdwmFK0hr7Ld8y8XDpy0bAKT2agXl4/s640/3933+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv55AateQDao2N157OHjC72Eot-eoPAQoMCRnp44YzhoQnenttaGBnTzkczKcj6xiPNZdmMvwdeHUy9W_TaK3MW-BHoc2AZgQKoaoCDGO219y3obYE0kVWHI7MgN7VsoWdHj0o/s1600/3929+bathroom.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/AVvXsEhv55AateQDao2N157OHjC72Eot-eoPAQoMCRnp44YzhoQnenttaGBnTzkczKcj6xiPNZdmMvwdeHUy9W_TaK3MW-BHoc2AZgQKoaoCDGO219y3obYE0kVWHI7MgN7VsoWdHj0o/s640/3929+bathroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Other sources: White paint is White Dove by Benjamin Moore. Most rooms in my house are now this color of white. I don't have the info on the Moen faucet, nor the specifics of the tiles. The denim blue tile in the shower I just found at Lowes. The gray floor tiles in the shower and bathroom, along with the white subway, is from Comtempo Tile in American Fork, Utah. The white quartz counters and shower bench are just a basic pure white quartz. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-358445209647931942019-03-02T19:20:00.002-07:002019-03-02T19:26:37.748-07:00Sourdough Oatmeal Wheat Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpMW8yRB4LZjwRO7zJbn9clUmf5dQ4e3nym7LRP_MfNyTlEXfh54vXoy6hXIqUOQkfNY9SPQTKF__L7j3UbjluF45rrJL8NVZo4KKbn8OX39-a4dFK8AJ-ottodQIHDkmG0FW/s1600/3886+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1093" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpMW8yRB4LZjwRO7zJbn9clUmf5dQ4e3nym7LRP_MfNyTlEXfh54vXoy6hXIqUOQkfNY9SPQTKF__L7j3UbjluF45rrJL8NVZo4KKbn8OX39-a4dFK8AJ-ottodQIHDkmG0FW/s640/3886+food.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I love to make <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2017/11/cranberry-almond-sourdough.html" target="_blank">crusty artisan sourdough bread</a> but soft sourdough sandwich bread is also a favorite. I developed this recipe over the last several weeks, making multiple loaves each weekend to get it just right. I absolutely love the slightly nutty taste of oats in the bread.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifF4faO1jiN5LEzzT3nLII4OKj6OmWywmdhfJ478DI5OpqvPnf2F_1XQBsnbK1Q1Xa6vAEjukUrNQg_OtTq5elRLlQpPAWfV7Oc3YFlv5il7nf_uKbUUkKY-z4Ts8_quQngUgq/s1600/3887+food.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/AVvXsEifF4faO1jiN5LEzzT3nLII4OKj6OmWywmdhfJ478DI5OpqvPnf2F_1XQBsnbK1Q1Xa6vAEjukUrNQg_OtTq5elRLlQpPAWfV7Oc3YFlv5il7nf_uKbUUkKY-z4Ts8_quQngUgq/s640/3887+food.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This recipe makes one loaf but I have also doubled it. The Kitchen Aid actually kneads it even better with two loaves. A scale is a must for thus recipe but I assume if you already make sourdough bread then you definitely have a scale. Electronic scales are very inexpensive now, mine was $30 and purchased 12 years ago.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-ZOwPUejd6oG10RQCehlT2RLOK-gClqEjc1ZcuS3bP6JtZiuuL376KZa0IAj5TwgUIyVJn-MYLfmcIVLuE2t9zjOh2_dgw4Uv0JCktprb70sfFhmMndNqFikN63Pegd2AcnF/s1600/3889+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1243" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-ZOwPUejd6oG10RQCehlT2RLOK-gClqEjc1ZcuS3bP6JtZiuuL376KZa0IAj5TwgUIyVJn-MYLfmcIVLuE2t9zjOh2_dgw4Uv0JCktprb70sfFhmMndNqFikN63Pegd2AcnF/s640/3889+food.jpg" width="496" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPPiN2T5IhYWPjXmg_CfXZAXZfnYWHoCbZB0KrEEX9iBxmwh7MS0THCIVg6ISU8hbZQahAUkl4DMi_OcMm27x4xdcRuvRUHDoAoaHAHqMY7WO_jbkMZ_x-ok6C9fp8xSZ1rgo/s1600/3897+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1111" data-original-width="1600" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPPiN2T5IhYWPjXmg_CfXZAXZfnYWHoCbZB0KrEEX9iBxmwh7MS0THCIVg6ISU8hbZQahAUkl4DMi_OcMm27x4xdcRuvRUHDoAoaHAHqMY7WO_jbkMZ_x-ok6C9fp8xSZ1rgo/s640/3897+food.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-pAhTo9Ikl9NT8Re7FLkNlo4Bj-Ntsmiijqd4FQjHB5La4FpR7mrVMgswlj7QqS29b4-l16oG8UlXGkp4b-4T996vZyy9S7eZESUVf_WNewuSUq6P4GVnh7LOC88QycfVFfx/s1600/3898+food.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/AVvXsEi9-pAhTo9Ikl9NT8Re7FLkNlo4Bj-Ntsmiijqd4FQjHB5La4FpR7mrVMgswlj7QqS29b4-l16oG8UlXGkp4b-4T996vZyy9S7eZESUVf_WNewuSUq6P4GVnh7LOC88QycfVFfx/s640/3898+food.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: -27pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Sourdough Oatmeal Wheat Bread</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: -27pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 27pt; text-align: center; text-indent: -27pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Makes 1 loaf in an 8x4 pan</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.keepandshare.com/doc/8230160/sourdough-oatmeal-wheat-bread-1-pdf-258k?da=y" target="_blank">PRINTABLE RECIPE CLICK HERE</a></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-936ff272-7fff-492e-32cb-bb2ee044549e" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">193 grams warm water</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">132 grams sourdough starter (bubbly and active, 100% hydration*)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">½ teaspoon instant yeast (optional, but it does help it rise a bit more)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">55 grams honey (can do as little as 20 grams if desired)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">55 grams old-fashioned oats (plus extra for coating the dough)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">110 grams wheat flour (I use freshly ground hard spring wheat)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">160-180 grams bread flour (start with lesser amount)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">22 grams vegetable oil</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">11 grams salt (approx 1½ teaspoons table salt)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: -22.5pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 22.5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Place all ingredients in your Kitchen Aid mixer. Knead on speed 2 or 3 approximately 6 minutes. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">You want the dough to be tacky, not too wet, not too dry. Add an extra tablespoon or two of bread </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">flour if needed. The way I gauge this is it should stick to the bottom of the bowl but not the sides. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Or, by touch it should feel pretty sticky but not stick too much to your hands when you pull your fingers</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">away from, the dough. Better to be too sticky than too dry as it will absorb more of the flour during the first rise.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: -22.5pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 22.5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">After kneading for six minutes in the Kitchen Aid place in a greased bowl and let rise until close to </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">double in size, approximately 2 hours depending on temperature of your kitchen. I have also mixed</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">the dough at night and immediately placed in my refrigerator overnight. Press out dough into a rectangle </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">the width of the pan, roll up, coat in a few more tablespoons of oats, place in greased 8x4 loaf pan, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">cover with greased plastic wrap. Let rise another 1-2 hours (or place in refrigerator overnight) then </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">*I use equal parts water and flour, by weight, to feed my sourdough starter.</span></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-5986805301844739552018-02-27T09:13:00.000-07:002018-02-27T09:13:42.909-07:00Lattice King Size QuiltI made a king size quilt in light gray and dark scrappy prints. Gracious I love how it turned out. I don't even think this pattern has a name. I saw some quilters call it basketweave, one called it Twinkle, one called it lattice, so I am sticking with that name. But really it's just a Snowball block alternating with a Nine Patch block. I don't do complicated patterns. Ever.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRC5YnjG9cIwfJnYQMhCcAXfxmJI0-rQQStJHtJ1rlWGFLnSTEk-vfx6AoDgYFwrqh7nw90FcnvwNH9hNL5jl3DDNoMPKVuN2EFP0BUUhkJyPlFCnPdjKk22Y3ELAO_S4OTgDa/s1600/1897+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="1600" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRC5YnjG9cIwfJnYQMhCcAXfxmJI0-rQQStJHtJ1rlWGFLnSTEk-vfx6AoDgYFwrqh7nw90FcnvwNH9hNL5jl3DDNoMPKVuN2EFP0BUUhkJyPlFCnPdjKk22Y3ELAO_S4OTgDa/s640/1897+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am 6" tall with these boots and still the quilt drags on the floor. Huge!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5viE57tse-Fhkvw_4hK7ZQSLfEY5h6cZmLvlG3pQkJbKht2mgn_u6pd4a-s4kPOReM0I3ZFltmi35qD8idYMdGx8rlsx5dwobNG0I7Ih15CmiYDgujBb4xsEt-gpbkSg2u4h/s1600/1884+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1229" data-original-width="1600" height="489" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5viE57tse-Fhkvw_4hK7ZQSLfEY5h6cZmLvlG3pQkJbKht2mgn_u6pd4a-s4kPOReM0I3ZFltmi35qD8idYMdGx8rlsx5dwobNG0I7Ih15CmiYDgujBb4xsEt-gpbkSg2u4h/s640/1884+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAOFgSt6aESduxDDVTbknN5a1g89LIxhOxR-GgLsqljIGZdOQhuWWZ0GAmqzGweL1WUF7lf7Ews8V8P1lIn7b1wqlqnlBh70zJ7pIYvZ1i_-7bT7i0I1rpkxoBv21urv_N62He/s1600/1885+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1341" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAOFgSt6aESduxDDVTbknN5a1g89LIxhOxR-GgLsqljIGZdOQhuWWZ0GAmqzGweL1WUF7lf7Ews8V8P1lIn7b1wqlqnlBh70zJ7pIYvZ1i_-7bT7i0I1rpkxoBv21urv_N62He/s640/1885+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="536" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY74AcQjO8GzlRmftdsa3tPL7yZUaQBZdOxrZUry0oXQwAkshxR3ZFYJMWTjVDDbrye9GrVxzq1mtsRBhW_BfiZ-DNR_OcV2QL-2UbuulP8hyphenhyphenAHadChBktRUGKLxOyEP8QoWX5/s1600/vintage+red+and+white.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="image courtesy of Diary of a Quilter" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image courtesy of Diary of a Quilter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My inspiration was this antique red and white quilt, early 20th century, found over at <a href="https://www.diaryofaquilter.com/2011/09/antique-quilts.html" target="_blank">Diary of a Quilter</a>. Big scale, no border. Borders are not traditional so I rarely if ever add a border. I think it dates a quilt. I want it timeless, if that's possible.<br />
<br />
Do you know how hard it is to find larger quilt patterns for larger quilts? No, I don't mean that quilters don't <i>offer</i> measurements for king size quilts, they do, I mean that the scale of most quilt patterns are ridiculously tiny. For example, for this quilt I found a pattern called Twinkle that called for 6" blocks. <i>Six-inch frickin' blocks for a king size quilt! That is insane.</i> I would feel like I was working in a crayon factory; and my job was to put the Cornflower Blue crayons in the boxes, all day long, week after week. I would have needed 144 blocks to make a king size. I'd rather chew broken glass. I'll use this book for smaller quilts though, adorable layouts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwWqG22LeWLcqAGGlPgfZdvoswlVgfqmLJUxetMW34cvKNnH3Ztlu7_0LckZMvSR1XQbGqjtPB0oJPPGV7sLj5UQvDxFbuNGjy8No7CSNxD6_HIZ5z5rMqm3MaWFLI8uKyd1D/s1600/1916+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1069" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwWqG22LeWLcqAGGlPgfZdvoswlVgfqmLJUxetMW34cvKNnH3Ztlu7_0LckZMvSR1XQbGqjtPB0oJPPGV7sLj5UQvDxFbuNGjy8No7CSNxD6_HIZ5z5rMqm3MaWFLI8uKyd1D/s640/1916+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I decided to calculate my own measurements for a 12" block. That way I would need<i> just</i> 72 blocks, still a lot, but doable. I used 6.5 yards of Kona cotton in this light gray color and then bought a bunch of 5" pieces of fabrics from various small-scaled prints. I don't usually like fabric collections, I think they look too 'put together'. I opt to be my own curator of fabric.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1CVW1puOMCr6xkcFe7n9f_og3cTWQlMJwmI2mIlKHIlbDN9fSbLXEs8fL-qRdDoq8QzLN6xniOD7LW68lUCFWYyQdkAYbf0_U60wWskYIA1AcTe1PCLVPcBloMmh8ceu3VcwF/s1600/1914+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1CVW1puOMCr6xkcFe7n9f_og3cTWQlMJwmI2mIlKHIlbDN9fSbLXEs8fL-qRdDoq8QzLN6xniOD7LW68lUCFWYyQdkAYbf0_U60wWskYIA1AcTe1PCLVPcBloMmh8ceu3VcwF/s640/1914+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Measurements:<br />
-Make 36 Snowball blocks, 12". Cut your gray squares 12" and the corner squares, 4.5"<br />
-Make 36 Nine Patch blocks, 12". Cut your patterned and gray strips 4.5" and strip sew, then cut 4.5" sections and sew into nine-patch blocks.<br />
-These aren't great instructions, you can google how to make a Snowball and Nine Patch block. Sorry.<br />
-Finished size is approximately 90" x 104" after washing.<br />
<br />
You will have 9 blocks across and 8 blocks going down for a king.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBXDux4OvS7CPK975b5mc4LXJPVjrmx6CsNE5qO_A9BoiQiN-6YzFWpP1XObUMVb99D90l8hpmQGNH-DANtQrxAIxyDBBiHxjD_MbYVVpD5ysn5QmitOSd7Lyb7vuoJoaOqYJ4/s1600/1632+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="847" data-original-width="1600" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBXDux4OvS7CPK975b5mc4LXJPVjrmx6CsNE5qO_A9BoiQiN-6YzFWpP1XObUMVb99D90l8hpmQGNH-DANtQrxAIxyDBBiHxjD_MbYVVpD5ysn5QmitOSd7Lyb7vuoJoaOqYJ4/s640/1632+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Sewing this large of a project is a workout just hefting all that fabric. Notice below that not all my points match up. I am a lukewarm quilter, I am not a perfectionist. My life motto is, "it's good enough." Plus you'll never see the mis-matched points once it is sewn, quilted, and crinkly.<b> Don't let perfectionism stop you from quilting!</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDgZx3RuBVC7yByvgAmpEE2QjVsysvEDeXQ0_FHwLETXvpiRMlf3hPxVt-cE_U_m3T6b3dMAe_T5GGgFhrag_Urf0ktjJRpzhpOINC7TfVg9On8SF1x_VlhMTMaVTjVpr9Z7m/s1600/1638+king+size+quilt.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/AVvXsEjLDgZx3RuBVC7yByvgAmpEE2QjVsysvEDeXQ0_FHwLETXvpiRMlf3hPxVt-cE_U_m3T6b3dMAe_T5GGgFhrag_Urf0ktjJRpzhpOINC7TfVg9On8SF1x_VlhMTMaVTjVpr9Z7m/s640/1638+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I sent the quilt to a friend who has a long arm. We chose this geometric pattern. I don't like swirls, flowers, or anything froo-froo. Keep it simple, keep it geometric.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWpCzFwbm3tojCeYmNgkgYRWyR4fst6PIAIl8DHML-ooiSi-0_ZjewqAOULDenKLpC1CrxySKcEEz1NpyC_m6gx56XW1teJFXYGYl14UiDg_sCGv3PlDIMebSoPbEXp9fSryyP/s1600/1877+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWpCzFwbm3tojCeYmNgkgYRWyR4fst6PIAIl8DHML-ooiSi-0_ZjewqAOULDenKLpC1CrxySKcEEz1NpyC_m6gx56XW1teJFXYGYl14UiDg_sCGv3PlDIMebSoPbEXp9fSryyP/s640/1877+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I cut 2" strips for the binding and finally bought these clips for holding the binding in place. What took me so long? Oh right, I only make a quilt every few years. It's been four years since the last. This adorable yellow print from Riley Blake is delicious. I have always loved yellow. I machine bind because life is too short to bind by hand. Again, I'd rather chew broken glass.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhISjPTRyajjCPJMXjcKrTCRdaVZAvd4cylhDdI2wzjc09P5WB3FP3NlsEhVsVR15fGQqEpfYitXy6KFwhLI4Ktnjjcq-s6E9nRptVs8allhoFBek5euc0dRFktwQRUQls8Cn9/s1600/1871+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhISjPTRyajjCPJMXjcKrTCRdaVZAvd4cylhDdI2wzjc09P5WB3FP3NlsEhVsVR15fGQqEpfYitXy6KFwhLI4Ktnjjcq-s6E9nRptVs8allhoFBek5euc0dRFktwQRUQls8Cn9/s640/1871+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifV-AL_cZzDVuMdRwIF44-zeb6Yog5IYCA1RLgFupdT74w17VDiZDgDNYxoSj4TOaOh_TGFMMKvyYE4-y1n-JN6ZZo1OkWQXlQYxn_CI-L9ZnlSopohGAt3Tel3FO4K1s9k48a/s1600/1904+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifV-AL_cZzDVuMdRwIF44-zeb6Yog5IYCA1RLgFupdT74w17VDiZDgDNYxoSj4TOaOh_TGFMMKvyYE4-y1n-JN6ZZo1OkWQXlQYxn_CI-L9ZnlSopohGAt3Tel3FO4K1s9k48a/s640/1904+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I always add the year I made the quilt instead of a tag on the back. It is subtle in the yellow thread, and that's the point. This is embroidered with my 1" <a href="http://meringuedesigns.net/redwork-alphabet" target="_blank">Redwork Alphabet available on my website.</a> You can see how I embroidered the year <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2014/09/triangle-quilt.html" target="_blank">on this quilt</a> and <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2013/09/pinwheel-quilt-in-coral-and-linen.html" target="_blank">this quilt</a> as well.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5yv5RrDcNCOA7_j0ano-JAQSdewvYfewPPlrzMDx60X_3_wSdmh4RtThhOBjdJGrSAuWUiIUfBcrQXRtyUIcHVplQVTbclX97M2MDmcGmsTSh6cMdssiNo0PKr79zE1m93MUx/s1600/1903+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5yv5RrDcNCOA7_j0ano-JAQSdewvYfewPPlrzMDx60X_3_wSdmh4RtThhOBjdJGrSAuWUiIUfBcrQXRtyUIcHVplQVTbclX97M2MDmcGmsTSh6cMdssiNo0PKr79zE1m93MUx/s640/1903+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A bed layered with linens in the my favorite. Right now in February I have a down comforter folded back, and my quilt folded back as well. Euro shams in white linen, topped off with a lumbar pillow in an African mudcloth. The perfect combo of modern and cottage-y.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24CWK-RwDLlDKoOOhPl6wVe9BIPwLkZ_eqPiyK_6P4BWtH1cUFbIh0tUNe9vhIQqWcEIDXaGluOW_dwOeBPQi6RPTSmFcAuHB-4LGzQhBZpjfPbb6vLgBpjLdnYHLiTVoz5gv/s1600/1875+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1069" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24CWK-RwDLlDKoOOhPl6wVe9BIPwLkZ_eqPiyK_6P4BWtH1cUFbIh0tUNe9vhIQqWcEIDXaGluOW_dwOeBPQi6RPTSmFcAuHB-4LGzQhBZpjfPbb6vLgBpjLdnYHLiTVoz5gv/s640/1875+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhviYefsq7xK98O-raypbuowXIeomqjl5_9cg_gV-F0-0NVvyymWPJ0j8rDvXYMilDN7ZchoSHMCpL3_QkaOZmHbOOVHl3F2Fop_Y3uG3pQ6OrI4IVrnAjLMuzzSstYdg2q42WC/s1600/1876+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhviYefsq7xK98O-raypbuowXIeomqjl5_9cg_gV-F0-0NVvyymWPJ0j8rDvXYMilDN7ZchoSHMCpL3_QkaOZmHbOOVHl3F2Fop_Y3uG3pQ6OrI4IVrnAjLMuzzSstYdg2q42WC/s640/1876+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqx72UjgOBzWtjcuvHm8w0T-AtbFdgWMkKfstk_hWZYH_U_76gy3n_WV8vWEsN-Wf_BUvGmhJoYUxU1GHChNwMCzLG3uNsiGoOUocrspDuiy3AnxmEELDn8_RrMRUSY-TVFnL7/s1600/1879+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="1600" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqx72UjgOBzWtjcuvHm8w0T-AtbFdgWMkKfstk_hWZYH_U_76gy3n_WV8vWEsN-Wf_BUvGmhJoYUxU1GHChNwMCzLG3uNsiGoOUocrspDuiy3AnxmEELDn8_RrMRUSY-TVFnL7/s640/1879+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nWjnZuBI_X-65WvpGMSX8sJjOPEP1NTgJ9_qVks3ZUM8bsAfbZUHwMgW4YlfMtQnpMQ6EA6_lsci67IzRcHJXELZpGL4jQkzsvud2kLz4W78iEnVak2nFalPyNO8AhBqEsRf/s1600/1881+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1069" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nWjnZuBI_X-65WvpGMSX8sJjOPEP1NTgJ9_qVks3ZUM8bsAfbZUHwMgW4YlfMtQnpMQ6EA6_lsci67IzRcHJXELZpGL4jQkzsvud2kLz4W78iEnVak2nFalPyNO8AhBqEsRf/s640/1881+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There's nothing like a quilt folded up at the end of a bed. Perfection.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dpo9MRjAZhm0BZuQU4Ri16JOPKdQvGPGNwRD_Z06yFiFEd12cD5vE7IYOFwrvLIHx6g9NKPt6fdLPsutgXKjCKdoYjDdMQZHIaYk8dbkiUpP9nJQ5r_nt3yVmc3qHGhbnAj8/s1600/1890+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dpo9MRjAZhm0BZuQU4Ri16JOPKdQvGPGNwRD_Z06yFiFEd12cD5vE7IYOFwrvLIHx6g9NKPt6fdLPsutgXKjCKdoYjDdMQZHIaYk8dbkiUpP9nJQ5r_nt3yVmc3qHGhbnAj8/s640/1890+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hLAl-92Vs8t1iYpvLxaszhzzNzIJhF3sM5F6fVEwvBtWP46g5bvJVj5YM0wgpqc2y5TQYL2e6fowgldLqR86gXoAZ0kesbdpN0aeZfk_a_p8WHImMUhEARGtrOhBZUoM162x/s1600/1894+king+size+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hLAl-92Vs8t1iYpvLxaszhzzNzIJhF3sM5F6fVEwvBtWP46g5bvJVj5YM0wgpqc2y5TQYL2e6fowgldLqR86gXoAZ0kesbdpN0aeZfk_a_p8WHImMUhEARGtrOhBZUoM162x/s640/1894+king+size+quilt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-28198309047267164932018-02-15T17:16:00.002-07:002018-02-15T17:16:25.603-07:00Piping on a Pillow with a Zipper ClosureI have been getting requests for a long time to do a tutorial for piped or corded pillows. Every time I post a new photo of a piped pillow the requests come in, so here ya go. Piping on a Pillow AND a closure with a hidden lapped zipper. <b>This is not a beginning tutorial</b>--especially the piping. The zipper is easy and straightforward, but not so much the piping. Nevertheless, any beginner can try, who am I to hold ya back.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DakQbM1lPQjOA2ocR4W1LXclqEq2uwabb6ArzjOlCwKE41qYLH96aMOsqPAejreokPpCnQSDHAfRRlNq7noMODvULQgaZhAqSMZh-zfb5l8PxYenQvJNOFofdkzSm92qICr3/s1600/1830+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1009" data-original-width="1600" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DakQbM1lPQjOA2ocR4W1LXclqEq2uwabb6ArzjOlCwKE41qYLH96aMOsqPAejreokPpCnQSDHAfRRlNq7noMODvULQgaZhAqSMZh-zfb5l8PxYenQvJNOFofdkzSm92qICr3/s640/1830+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
To make an 18"x18" square pillow you will need:<br />
<br />
1. Fabric for the front. (I used this <a href="https://fabrics-store.com/?r=products/showFabric&fabric_id=15" target="_blank">bleached 100% linen from here</a>, I prewash and starch heavily.<br />
2. A different (or same) fabric for the back (I used<a href="https://fabrics-store.com/?r=products/showFabric&fabric_id=14" target="_blank"> this natural linen</a>, prewashed and ironed)<br />
3. Fabric to cover the cording<br />
4. 75 inches of skinny cotton or polyester cording<br />
5. A 20" zipper, doesn't need to match pillow colors at all. In fact 20" is variable, it can be anywhere from 18" on up. Use what you have on hand, just cut off the excess<br />
6. A zipper foot for your sewing machine,<br />
7. A cording foot (optional but recommended).<br />
8. Clear ruler with 45-degree angle marked on it, plus a cutting mat and rotary cutter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizttDWkXYHRsDFtnOv9MXb3oxlTfAqW1kaNYvJF3z4ruFBnNdCp2bMf7Rz9iPO1pb_1HmkK3HQmz5CthU5CuULesvvkSDMd9sL4yqNNqThtQdOlHry-hMy0RhQRAjjAgdh5Evj/s1600/1823+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1096" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizttDWkXYHRsDFtnOv9MXb3oxlTfAqW1kaNYvJF3z4ruFBnNdCp2bMf7Rz9iPO1pb_1HmkK3HQmz5CthU5CuULesvvkSDMd9sL4yqNNqThtQdOlHry-hMy0RhQRAjjAgdh5Evj/s640/1823+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="438" /></a></div>
<br />
If you are going to embroider your pillow, now is the time to do it. I love my modern Cross stitch monograms. You can <a href="http://meringuedesigns.net/search?q=cross+stitch+alphabet" target="_blank">purchase these designs on my website</a>. I used the Jumbo size capital letter W, it is about 10" tall. Took about 20 minutes to embroider in turquoise.<br />
<br />
After you embroider the fabric is when you want to cut the front piece down to size, 18.5"x 18.5".<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijjg4TFbIIe4UXosf0oxE8IJGTnuhtBbHQO6jzMwIMdp1sJqPMNSow11OQKWlDDJXFZZlMW8nyfmvZ6PeM-DTTJuy1-SAiqPoQBMR6-6GW6h-QkzJgmf_lArXy_AYfemzCAK8e/s1600/1773+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1238" data-original-width="1600" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijjg4TFbIIe4UXosf0oxE8IJGTnuhtBbHQO6jzMwIMdp1sJqPMNSow11OQKWlDDJXFZZlMW8nyfmvZ6PeM-DTTJuy1-SAiqPoQBMR6-6GW6h-QkzJgmf_lArXy_AYfemzCAK8e/s640/1773+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Optional, but now is the time to serge the edges.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XEoqxdlTWGDNaYpf2qiR-Wbt6gRdNdvFcJMeRsue2dfymEz6aXxtBMXOGAseFxte0gAM5s8vS07a5JAzXg30LSctueONV2v6uWMDx9ssDcFuWz9_Eq-FY6WWeTfZ2tN4jUiz/s1600/1774+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XEoqxdlTWGDNaYpf2qiR-Wbt6gRdNdvFcJMeRsue2dfymEz6aXxtBMXOGAseFxte0gAM5s8vS07a5JAzXg30LSctueONV2v6uWMDx9ssDcFuWz9_Eq-FY6WWeTfZ2tN4jUiz/s640/1774+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now we are going to make the piping. I prefer to cut my 2" strips on the bias, meaning a 45 degree angle but I have also cut strips on the straight grain. Bias cording will co around the corners of the pillow a bit easier but it is wasteful to cut on the bias. I do think you can tell though. The pillow on the left was made with 2" fabric strips cut on the straight grain. It is totally fine but seems a little 'bunchy' around the corners. The top pillow was cut on the bias but I didn't stretch the bias as I made the piping so it's a little baggy around the cording. The bottom one was cut on the bias and I <i>stretched the bias strips </i>as I sewed the cording. More details later.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4SKOD7iYeg_Y4Xag_p_CkWFCWE5cwGbKxA-L5nRRgErBvoCjnmgPzJ8xV4AnE1g9o8Buf8SXpSeTs1axwZbaEVCQVtl4_GV_Kfni4L39_lfbpBEPpu3wuOpp9Zxul2Y1tOQY/s1600/1833+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEhu4SKOD7iYeg_Y4Xag_p_CkWFCWE5cwGbKxA-L5nRRgErBvoCjnmgPzJ8xV4AnE1g9o8Buf8SXpSeTs1axwZbaEVCQVtl4_GV_Kfni4L39_lfbpBEPpu3wuOpp9Zxul2Y1tOQY/s640/1833+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So now you will need to cut about 80" inches of 2" fabric strips to wrap the cording. Since our pillow is 18" square you will need 18x4=72" inches to go around the perimeter, plus a few extra inches to sew the pieces together and to overlap on the pillow. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1bnJsj6nT2mIQL19OyHqxCNbidfe63MkDW7aLVHfVlUZ7JeQJa6OKoJ1UCKOWSXAfN68i77JgCnm51Mtyjh_8mYEmxlCK7_FKEJ2Tclnny9bCqBHEhmxfQOyY-B5A-5BdBfJ/s1600/1776+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEiF1bnJsj6nT2mIQL19OyHqxCNbidfe63MkDW7aLVHfVlUZ7JeQJa6OKoJ1UCKOWSXAfN68i77JgCnm51Mtyjh_8mYEmxlCK7_FKEJ2Tclnny9bCqBHEhmxfQOyY-B5A-5BdBfJ/s640/1776+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWzDSXAudPrT9VApylkeKAs8cEMWUMpIjliPAvlx89YGSrXPDSRpQKci9oBrlArErs0e0rPkEaYcglBD28IycHMdXscb9Pt7o5e9FpUZLCr6_-RVtdGP_nx04txxyayeHiHPwj/s1600/1777+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWzDSXAudPrT9VApylkeKAs8cEMWUMpIjliPAvlx89YGSrXPDSRpQKci9oBrlArErs0e0rPkEaYcglBD28IycHMdXscb9Pt7o5e9FpUZLCr6_-RVtdGP_nx04txxyayeHiHPwj/s640/1777+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fabric cut on 45-degree angle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3px9xQYvz7GgTQ1xS_aRFxiZfkGUboEQ0vlQuzhaUZkE38cPhXvNdL1An-DeTm3gRUTHFsMaGV1S4ki9dHubL3OiRAUqNkClr8k5_8V3Dvn7qhZqMQMsUIP5dfFsRcE0rX3SZ/s1600/1778+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3px9xQYvz7GgTQ1xS_aRFxiZfkGUboEQ0vlQuzhaUZkE38cPhXvNdL1An-DeTm3gRUTHFsMaGV1S4ki9dHubL3OiRAUqNkClr8k5_8V3Dvn7qhZqMQMsUIP5dfFsRcE0rX3SZ/s640/1778+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two-inch fabric strips cut on 45-degree angle </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxvC-e634Y_JLV48odcB4hsg9n3D1P6vzsgeSzzVwlzYzP1-selJLjcGCARo8GKLz7L7NIqhJJepBYieDvVzZ69lxU5oEEVWsC5mFiBwbmAJnpeCGsY3WTbhCh409-DkFDXYt/s640/1779+piping+on+pillow.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sew your fabric strips together on a 45-degree angle.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxvC-e634Y_JLV48odcB4hsg9n3D1P6vzsgeSzzVwlzYzP1-selJLjcGCARo8GKLz7L7NIqhJJepBYieDvVzZ69lxU5oEEVWsC5mFiBwbmAJnpeCGsY3WTbhCh409-DkFDXYt/s1600/1779+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxvC-e634Y_JLV48odcB4hsg9n3D1P6vzsgeSzzVwlzYzP1-selJLjcGCARo8GKLz7L7NIqhJJepBYieDvVzZ69lxU5oEEVWsC5mFiBwbmAJnpeCGsY3WTbhCh409-DkFDXYt/s1600/1779+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGl4RJEQdbv7BfjFWkcZvLD6TB6xC6hrUpTmjfN9enH1WEZpV-YHOdjUUAJCqegO3oQ9F_pIsO-gr6TPd75rhOwYg6ZzNTfEj2Mq2kNN6_vDbwI7k2VXkoTPRCz59j657rgAKT/s1600/1780+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEiGl4RJEQdbv7BfjFWkcZvLD6TB6xC6hrUpTmjfN9enH1WEZpV-YHOdjUUAJCqegO3oQ9F_pIsO-gr6TPd75rhOwYg6ZzNTfEj2Mq2kNN6_vDbwI7k2VXkoTPRCz59j657rgAKT/s640/1780+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sew all your fabric strips together and then switch to your zipper foot. Wrap the fabric around the cording and sew with matching thread as shown below, with the needle all the way to the left and a longer stitch length, around 4mm. As you sew, <i>gently stretch the bias strips</i> (not the cording, it won't stretch anyway) as you feed the fabric through the machine. This prevents the piping from getting a baggy look. I explained this above with an accompanying photo. Use matching thread because it's not uncommon when you are new to see this stitching on the finished pillow, so have it match. I also use a longer stitch length because it you do see it on the finished pillow, and it bugs you, you can easily use a seam ripper to remove it. Just some options.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhP3SFjLUntPBLP37S2o4JOJy1uauwCu_A2zy3_HVsP3iK9ISUDztDFadDPrPxrtZgTLiINk6-8R2jKuxH5v9eNTgDtEPdEvO_DqxIdC_E4ji9AIxs6o-Y_XNPo8pJhQKNR8Dd/s1600/1783+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEjhP3SFjLUntPBLP37S2o4JOJy1uauwCu_A2zy3_HVsP3iK9ISUDztDFadDPrPxrtZgTLiINk6-8R2jKuxH5v9eNTgDtEPdEvO_DqxIdC_E4ji9AIxs6o-Y_XNPo8pJhQKNR8Dd/s640/1783+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNG2Mqf-ElRYK0Mv9Xefq5SRHBOwbuL9_k5ZWUgBSVrdvWq-ey2LLmqXWLeOtdozZc0xbDWVKu8WunSe4P69JMSZCD7hdHbL1H7m1b7em4ITjIm4abN5pO6am0D6Z3j0DhcSF/s1600/1784+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNG2Mqf-ElRYK0Mv9Xefq5SRHBOwbuL9_k5ZWUgBSVrdvWq-ey2LLmqXWLeOtdozZc0xbDWVKu8WunSe4P69JMSZCD7hdHbL1H7m1b7em4ITjIm4abN5pO6am0D6Z3j0DhcSF/s640/1784+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finished piping</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now we will attach the piping to the pillow front. As shown in below photo, start on the bottom of your pillow where the final seam will be hidden (where I have the yellow pin), and sew a few inches down from the top of the piping, with all raw edges pointing outward. You want some excess piping to overlap at the end. The raw edges of the piping should be outward, meeting the raw/serged edge of the pillow front. Don't pin the piping around the entire pillow front. It is much easier to sew around the corners without anything pinned down .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm0Yrma_HQtTyMx_7elAN5Gk7anGqllDfWePMRDPlYbto8sDf94O8gqqDagzaX1OT3KDtu7yYTrkTkQpIhaE9Mm2hwROWFFh5x9FGAJb9Dbc28rZBxXEkfll__EO02MVXra9Dg/s1600/1785+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEgm0Yrma_HQtTyMx_7elAN5Gk7anGqllDfWePMRDPlYbto8sDf94O8gqqDagzaX1OT3KDtu7yYTrkTkQpIhaE9Mm2hwROWFFh5x9FGAJb9Dbc28rZBxXEkfll__EO02MVXra9Dg/s640/1785+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sew with your needle all the way to the left again, with the same matching turquoise thread. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-KDle_AXbDEYHvIa_kYiFeAcwAZ6RjHepy7D-fji1ctGosHHXBRWdegvIH5vJlwBPk9iFgOY4T88gMAgm9sYlpP9EXCNKmkxkx7tdH14jiKNbX4XRXwHgzLCFTmMN4kIixTW/s1600/1786+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEjq-KDle_AXbDEYHvIa_kYiFeAcwAZ6RjHepy7D-fji1ctGosHHXBRWdegvIH5vJlwBPk9iFgOY4T88gMAgm9sYlpP9EXCNKmkxkx7tdH14jiKNbX4XRXwHgzLCFTmMN4kIixTW/s640/1786+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the hardest part coming up. I am sorry there isn't a better way to explain this, but going around the corners is hard. Go slowly. You will have to round the corners (not square them) as best as possible. It helps to notch the fabric a few times (as seen above) as you approach the corners of the pillow front. That will help the fabric lie flat.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZmuucVu5gRsiNHHGZX43zets_ATSHzLBE2dlkigo2LNRw5yuwoVCl7zWiQkxpUTCbFTCubopaWAEYhoIejYBX_bQRDTmn9FO7Ap0Ej1EuTvu1Gquc-HKWAbYu7F0Rol3R9Wk/s1600/1787+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZmuucVu5gRsiNHHGZX43zets_ATSHzLBE2dlkigo2LNRw5yuwoVCl7zWiQkxpUTCbFTCubopaWAEYhoIejYBX_bQRDTmn9FO7Ap0Ej1EuTvu1Gquc-HKWAbYu7F0Rol3R9Wk/s640/1787+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unpick the piping at the beginning of where you started sewing and cut off about 2" inches of white cording.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When you get to the end of the pillow, about 6" before the end actually, lower your needle into your fabric. You will want to unpick some of the piping with a seam ripper, and cut off the last few inches of white cording. You do not want the bulky white cording to overlap within the turquoise fabric strips! You want there to be just the exact amount of white cording to go around the entire pillow, no more, no less. However you do want the turquoise piping to overlap by a few inches so that you can tuck in the raw edges as you finish sewing to the beginning strip. I know that's confusing word wise. Please zoom in on photos to see what I mean.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy5gTMLj3UV6eHImAlCrKQGVWxw8zqFGSiZzIX1Co2Dj6HsU5jra756Xax6Tha1qaHKmTIDLitoL-kXrY6p4ozxdH8R5MzaHd7DjHejYi7ng6JF4hIyjDCjUtuf48gEghUxbMW/s1600/1788+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEgy5gTMLj3UV6eHImAlCrKQGVWxw8zqFGSiZzIX1Co2Dj6HsU5jra756Xax6Tha1qaHKmTIDLitoL-kXrY6p4ozxdH8R5MzaHd7DjHejYi7ng6JF4hIyjDCjUtuf48gEghUxbMW/s640/1788+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You can see in the above photo I have taken the raw edges of the beginning of the turquoise piping and folded them in half, toward the inside, then tucked in the raw edges of the end of the turquoise piping. Then finish sewing. Below is what it should look like. I know my wording isn't perfect here, so hard to explain the process!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBRIIEdhD4aRDEB1d1jz95dPqAca8RHASius-NlZo1HXpxzdjuVUYD6oC0v_wiEmJeTWhjVzsky8f1vJMQFJAZswshJUj45xh6pS7HoLnE8ky6REM4vUijEcrL30-rxL7cu86R/s1600/1790+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEiBRIIEdhD4aRDEB1d1jz95dPqAca8RHASius-NlZo1HXpxzdjuVUYD6oC0v_wiEmJeTWhjVzsky8f1vJMQFJAZswshJUj45xh6pS7HoLnE8ky6REM4vUijEcrL30-rxL7cu86R/s640/1790+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaeLb9lGF9Jf6LclL4SvL_csaAxpv0RcPVLU78Ow2tna3FNfEfwvHZdNA6Hn7Cm7kqaCtLQRtUFV2HyzDXnbPCO92R6PppPMqxTz1SAl5TVbySpneiTgkkPZtFMuChRY0nTs09/s1600/1791+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaeLb9lGF9Jf6LclL4SvL_csaAxpv0RcPVLU78Ow2tna3FNfEfwvHZdNA6Hn7Cm7kqaCtLQRtUFV2HyzDXnbPCO92R6PppPMqxTz1SAl5TVbySpneiTgkkPZtFMuChRY0nTs09/s640/1791+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">see how the corners are 'rounded' with the piping and not sharply squared?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Above is what your pillow front should look like now. Kind of a mess actually. It will all work out! Set this aside while we work on the back pieces.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the back you will cut two pieces 12"x20" and 10"x20". Serge or zig-zag the inside edges, as seen below. (Don 't bother serging the outside edges as we will be cutting them off at the very end.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7DZdXBKIj2Aq6Clv7QW7SDsOFLxMoS4QeX1cjD1-MbX2mNxWfkp_Sc9gj1BN-E-O50WvtUP79z6almYJ4FKCrZpWbOlnpPRKkBqdpSaNpcAYtNQa4Qtg56anmzZQqLLcbYwqV/s1600/1793+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEh7DZdXBKIj2Aq6Clv7QW7SDsOFLxMoS4QeX1cjD1-MbX2mNxWfkp_Sc9gj1BN-E-O50WvtUP79z6almYJ4FKCrZpWbOlnpPRKkBqdpSaNpcAYtNQa4Qtg56anmzZQqLLcbYwqV/s640/1793+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
As shown below, take the 10" piece and fold and iron about 1/2" inch. Take the 12" piece and fold and iron about 1.5" inches.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMomyeAPSiiuqekMoby41zHCcSExE07tjAy9h7N66nFtiLPyXfumWCoWpY1doI53sczdNgVFaNfjZgRO8tjx1YSWMvdrYrS3QKMd0vFt-A7gIgZReMzaMVwB0two70_anSgTv0/s1600/1795+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEhMomyeAPSiiuqekMoby41zHCcSExE07tjAy9h7N66nFtiLPyXfumWCoWpY1doI53sczdNgVFaNfjZgRO8tjx1YSWMvdrYrS3QKMd0vFt-A7gIgZReMzaMVwB0two70_anSgTv0/s640/1795+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Take your back piece folded just 1/2" and place it along the edge of the left side of the zipper as seen below.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmMbRyMH3p4kgTBNj7Jm3llom_4EZFEiJTJxSGVElfjVfbKMbEZWx25yRlYQOckOtO9vaPENePXmrUaof27YoQh1wo7ZirdrPq-tNDlZHstZOMLZ8eA9iB7QkWsg9N04MArEU/s1600/1796+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="1600" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmMbRyMH3p4kgTBNj7Jm3llom_4EZFEiJTJxSGVElfjVfbKMbEZWx25yRlYQOckOtO9vaPENePXmrUaof27YoQh1wo7ZirdrPq-tNDlZHstZOMLZ8eA9iB7QkWsg9N04MArEU/s640/1796+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
With the zipper foot, and needle all the way to the right, stitch closely to the zipper teeth, as seen with turquoise stitching line below.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLI7XlqtSONI9kHMJh_hV5mBhRapkXMMC6eJaI3k1kwdL3ehhMjXXoqG5zsPGvNkhsmI-FC9i_xlsJXE58kBXPD7tHtISUNKLLh1EZYcH5AgR6YqbNsmaMYkZP2aTmyy-sweDU/s1600/1797+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1089" data-original-width="1600" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLI7XlqtSONI9kHMJh_hV5mBhRapkXMMC6eJaI3k1kwdL3ehhMjXXoqG5zsPGvNkhsmI-FC9i_xlsJXE58kBXPD7tHtISUNKLLh1EZYcH5AgR6YqbNsmaMYkZP2aTmyy-sweDU/s640/1797+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Overlap zippered pieced under the other back piece. You will need to overlap about an inch. Basically you'll be sewing through the serged edge (or just to the left of it) and through the right side of the zipper tape.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikR7_c5n-EVmnNeylEoI_1ZcieLB7ovHPTRFAxwfjMiRrF2g5nM720vevmbFJjwbvjYpjI90SV-sh9lLqQhpKZPHVggF-Xo5wlo9_ZAeELSnXxr4UDT5NHLz_c0MULKxHyGchw/s1600/1799+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1118" data-original-width="1600" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikR7_c5n-EVmnNeylEoI_1ZcieLB7ovHPTRFAxwfjMiRrF2g5nM720vevmbFJjwbvjYpjI90SV-sh9lLqQhpKZPHVggF-Xo5wlo9_ZAeELSnXxr4UDT5NHLz_c0MULKxHyGchw/s640/1799+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
If you want, you can mark with chalk or water soluble pen, about aninch, all the way down (I don't because I am lazy) so I just pin.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1T5E6Nf2tpHPQm2iNt4NFOtjU0HFjh8LkseEdHXmpenGIpSCBdCTIrXCsRLy3uczJG91enWimU5Z24GWn3CS6C8Hr9AT1D61IStxntZDp6EP-JRsMm0lVAQyLbFnQZ_v5P7s/s1600/1801+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="891" data-original-width="1600" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1T5E6Nf2tpHPQm2iNt4NFOtjU0HFjh8LkseEdHXmpenGIpSCBdCTIrXCsRLy3uczJG91enWimU5Z24GWn3CS6C8Hr9AT1D61IStxntZDp6EP-JRsMm0lVAQyLbFnQZ_v5P7s/s640/1801+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It's nice to pin to see how everything will line up (above photo) but you'll just end up removing the pins when you sew (as seen below) because it's nice to fold back the fabric and see exactly where you are sewing. I switched to a matching thread color for the linen fabric since this seam will be seen. I chose off white.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxCtoETFm-Tv1asJn10cH9kfQbgPW0d_C81j6AHU47yQJxdrf8UZxED8ws-GfDPAf6HhOcxMzGwcAL4A7raPgJBtne8tQV3nNZnOZ0OvVAoyEF4hFqE77m4EQhwZTqM84SEKor/s1600/1803+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEjxCtoETFm-Tv1asJn10cH9kfQbgPW0d_C81j6AHU47yQJxdrf8UZxED8ws-GfDPAf6HhOcxMzGwcAL4A7raPgJBtne8tQV3nNZnOZ0OvVAoyEF4hFqE77m4EQhwZTqM84SEKor/s640/1803+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievUbWE97jve_MmuJXeFQgBXZLmd8sWF9ikKupuat1D1E6UB0i-gNzMQ0AiFziiCdLxvb9B_PRkjcGhm57cM-Ok80xCYVpLtdUeTXrjVJtIhEhbLNxOvqnBhKBiYedqlBn7gSm/s1600/1802+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievUbWE97jve_MmuJXeFQgBXZLmd8sWF9ikKupuat1D1E6UB0i-gNzMQ0AiFziiCdLxvb9B_PRkjcGhm57cM-Ok80xCYVpLtdUeTXrjVJtIhEhbLNxOvqnBhKBiYedqlBn7gSm/s640/1802+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is when it would be nice to have marked with a pen, i don't because i have done this a million times so I do it by feel of the zipper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifZyGE47MVF89X0w0I5I2lXdsx0uUn3HaWUiRZl6MK2BfUOdYb7HlFtP7XNWjzWVTEt8vqhqa_CYW4tNsTM03zWTARruDPIS50t2PLk3XAFnNZACPBRs2TjDr8F1vmRup7vLi1/s1600/1805+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1315" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifZyGE47MVF89X0w0I5I2lXdsx0uUn3HaWUiRZl6MK2BfUOdYb7HlFtP7XNWjzWVTEt8vqhqa_CYW4tNsTM03zWTARruDPIS50t2PLk3XAFnNZACPBRs2TjDr8F1vmRup7vLi1/s640/1805+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="526" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's how it looks now unzipped from the front, and zipped up from the back. Yay! Almost there.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrWPRAuBtbQgqdZMvdqSSLkr7uGaDPiDNxhlm4sq-suITaWRQXPs6IwGYGGWHoec9rGNz1fHxq_P6SLqGaAl5k0zm90mAw1Y22Z5taT035IgiIcCXzORm4fnHx7uyv7ClbQxI/s1600/1804+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1014" data-original-width="1600" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrWPRAuBtbQgqdZMvdqSSLkr7uGaDPiDNxhlm4sq-suITaWRQXPs6IwGYGGWHoec9rGNz1fHxq_P6SLqGaAl5k0zm90mAw1Y22Z5taT035IgiIcCXzORm4fnHx7uyv7ClbQxI/s640/1804+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Place the top of the pillow face down on the pillow back. (Right sides together.) The back will be much bigger than the front, that's fine. It's easier to trim off excess than to not have had enough for the back. Pin all around, making sure the piping in out of the way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_588pYelRxx6TevmT1SwODFL7af839lbTVC1g3VBIZFlzOOya9JjLI-Dm_dpSfdhRLHcw_UMeVhb1XKKVhs9jOzqiFgqryJ6wSCm10wemvq4qFnPP7oJVi1J6GgygB6Ehxxz4/s1600/1807+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEg_588pYelRxx6TevmT1SwODFL7af839lbTVC1g3VBIZFlzOOya9JjLI-Dm_dpSfdhRLHcw_UMeVhb1XKKVhs9jOzqiFgqryJ6wSCm10wemvq4qFnPP7oJVi1J6GgygB6Ehxxz4/s640/1807+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqgJ9siokjt0Ej-kfXFhEkzC_AzFv6AOaD3SIcgeWS4qZ9j_uSZe9C39pfIgYgtTHbzMM0jjFGeh2r_8TZOtqTRRojkYejpqGBR7aCcYe0ZZM8ealoZ0I3uKUd6THz1GSgcH6/s1600/1808+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEiGqgJ9siokjt0Ej-kfXFhEkzC_AzFv6AOaD3SIcgeWS4qZ9j_uSZe9C39pfIgYgtTHbzMM0jjFGeh2r_8TZOtqTRRojkYejpqGBR7aCcYe0ZZM8ealoZ0I3uKUd6THz1GSgcH6/s640/1808+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Make sure you have unzipped the zipper at least part way before you sew! You need to be able to turn it right side out and you want the sewing machine to stay clear of the zipper pull.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIzWj23mdAWnACfDj0Ph1u4beyNHgyYYm8RDMGC_ctzFehGXYk5N6V4cZbHe-hhxRoWnp9Dsmoy1Q-b4XT8HvqW_nst0_wmvJP_1bCjZrala9jqjJY_9AmyyF-C3xZazIEyaQ/s1600/1809+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1315" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIzWj23mdAWnACfDj0Ph1u4beyNHgyYYm8RDMGC_ctzFehGXYk5N6V4cZbHe-hhxRoWnp9Dsmoy1Q-b4XT8HvqW_nst0_wmvJP_1bCjZrala9jqjJY_9AmyyF-C3xZazIEyaQ/s640/1809+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="526" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Switch to your cording foot if you have one. This allows you to get even closer to the piping than a zipper foot can. If you don't have one, it's ok, but the finished piping may not be as tight. I think Bernina foot #12 was less than $25 and I use is a lot, but I also sew a lot. Your choice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rbbWjL4tmE2GNqhBw3R0ElI2xmauuQboxqrWUoxEeDFoU9eKdqZMH1RqcvNvxm22Dil0XhSDlEamB2RA7Ntw2TcB9AE8TnZcxZfEr_wEsLa6wiBWUBYuXjrgLMPDtwxos_nF/s1600/1810+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rbbWjL4tmE2GNqhBw3R0ElI2xmauuQboxqrWUoxEeDFoU9eKdqZMH1RqcvNvxm22Dil0XhSDlEamB2RA7Ntw2TcB9AE8TnZcxZfEr_wEsLa6wiBWUBYuXjrgLMPDtwxos_nF/s640/1810+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9dz82d7Duw1dMuB80xLtQzV19wR-g4O74CgjvPfx3EyocgbtQ63EnnRay5xwDOExtdiZ1R64horAEPY5Rm4eIqRALYkFNmhcpK3lwBiXCCtjLAGxksuxYg-2vmUhSUkq1JZVM/s1600/1811+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1600" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9dz82d7Duw1dMuB80xLtQzV19wR-g4O74CgjvPfx3EyocgbtQ63EnnRay5xwDOExtdiZ1R64horAEPY5Rm4eIqRALYkFNmhcpK3lwBiXCCtjLAGxksuxYg-2vmUhSUkq1JZVM/s640/1811+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You will actually sew with the groove of the foot running over the piping, with the needle to the right. (Zoom in more if you need to see more details.) If you'll notice below, the turquoise stitching line is where the piping is attached, and now you'll be stitching even tighter, a little further to the left of that turquoise stitching line with your cording foot. If sewing with a zipper foot, you may not be able to get any closer to the piping.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDpqJBLsUiBP5kXlDsKv0LiTlQgcMSx4CacmwEHxCKVnJtnqmtAIWzubUmWAN_V-wX4CuJSkDUs2LdHTpSh01WghZKo4olj1ivaLmeS9imCGofHe0feRwZf3s8ajNsw3Uv5x9/s1600/1812+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEioDpqJBLsUiBP5kXlDsKv0LiTlQgcMSx4CacmwEHxCKVnJtnqmtAIWzubUmWAN_V-wX4CuJSkDUs2LdHTpSh01WghZKo4olj1ivaLmeS9imCGofHe0feRwZf3s8ajNsw3Uv5x9/s640/1812+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Go slowly around the corners. Really use your fingers and feel that piping. You'll have to stop and pivot quite a bit as you go around corners. I never get it completely right the first time, it's ok, we can fix later.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlVBxxqnafUdNnNBNeu1EENMniWB9iykbR6Ar03qM_5UFa06j0065AkjD3FIeO2gYCPXvvqQhbh_5XF6zHUkEsVg4gnnC2gjm0k7d00eMqRluMJg_1otHyfXqup6AfFfHudl3/s1600/1814+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1556" data-original-width="1600" height="622" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlVBxxqnafUdNnNBNeu1EENMniWB9iykbR6Ar03qM_5UFa06j0065AkjD3FIeO2gYCPXvvqQhbh_5XF6zHUkEsVg4gnnC2gjm0k7d00eMqRluMJg_1otHyfXqup6AfFfHudl3/s640/1814+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When you are done, stick your hand in the pillow and unzip all the way. Turn right side out and examine your corners. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefxUM6KIHQvxqnHDYelLo6_mWYUVcobtTPm0lGV5HnRaiTV-OcIVtEeVcXT3z_cIyl_OyzpkS659C2fNBF1K3hZgooIZWPKcjM01eDH2UiC09D903DCzk8_BY929NmQTewG1h/s1600/1816+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="957" data-original-width="1600" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefxUM6KIHQvxqnHDYelLo6_mWYUVcobtTPm0lGV5HnRaiTV-OcIVtEeVcXT3z_cIyl_OyzpkS659C2fNBF1K3hZgooIZWPKcjM01eDH2UiC09D903DCzk8_BY929NmQTewG1h/s640/1816+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mine weren't perfect and I noticed where I needed to get even closer so I turned just that one corner wrong side out and stitched that corner again.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7OMVtm80-uVotNS0nDN_rquHYbHQ7icZRRogz89ve7GzCZruNA9HCgCxUZphiiaons-1OZKBH8a1E2HuQM_TWEWQ4v4I2TOIzxXsVzSOX8Qk82SUCksfDeBiKYJfmheNbiFzz/s1600/1817+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1115" data-original-width="1600" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7OMVtm80-uVotNS0nDN_rquHYbHQ7icZRRogz89ve7GzCZruNA9HCgCxUZphiiaons-1OZKBH8a1E2HuQM_TWEWQ4v4I2TOIzxXsVzSOX8Qk82SUCksfDeBiKYJfmheNbiFzz/s640/1817+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not bad but I chose to sew even closer. Dang corners!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-YPuqfxTTOc2MqwCCb5maUAOeKImKg6Ze89DwebXz6o0XMntG-OgCOCa16ArAdVeP3uyTyWcNIxsurEOzUmkVoc0wOQ-xNVUOJHLrPyGXPVimGRMJPGi8IedFNjTfeBgiYF1C/s1600/1820+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEi-YPuqfxTTOc2MqwCCb5maUAOeKImKg6Ze89DwebXz6o0XMntG-OgCOCa16ArAdVeP3uyTyWcNIxsurEOzUmkVoc0wOQ-xNVUOJHLrPyGXPVimGRMJPGi8IedFNjTfeBgiYF1C/s640/1820+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Looks good now!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYicD4d6dBI3Dwi3K4VPg5tUV3ews6E9eMs5eytC5mtgiiEF9IRUgBsxditWqyCNID52RVsZ_2ba26zqEZ9d7v9BrXGAl8bpBJStoO6ADMhRw086lFRhcutcnyW24wKU9gk_H/s1600/1819+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1600" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYicD4d6dBI3Dwi3K4VPg5tUV3ews6E9eMs5eytC5mtgiiEF9IRUgBsxditWqyCNID52RVsZ_2ba26zqEZ9d7v9BrXGAl8bpBJStoO6ADMhRw086lFRhcutcnyW24wKU9gk_H/s640/1819+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Turn wrong side out and trim back to be same size as front. Be careful trimming off excess zipper! Use cheap scissors if possible. You don't want to hit that metal part with good scissors. I don't even like cutting the plastic-y part with good scissors so I have crappy ones just to cut zippers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFP5zOGNGGDdcgBPUfmZxi3jZxjleDuXAihirXI90pYs3JPIlf_QYepzKpC_GjlT5MymydkxHrmGxfqy-5BE7Ef2xZsIgzalPM9go6ZWoi1CvEBSq2tSfhTku2CAfjsAj3OqE/s1600/1818+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1009" data-original-width="1600" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFP5zOGNGGDdcgBPUfmZxi3jZxjleDuXAihirXI90pYs3JPIlf_QYepzKpC_GjlT5MymydkxHrmGxfqy-5BE7Ef2xZsIgzalPM9go6ZWoi1CvEBSq2tSfhTku2CAfjsAj3OqE/s640/1818+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KxlbiIY3dvACI8Ge2tV_A0kUMfiXQB2sI1kFYGKNuQnykLoj7tQhqy14r17Ql7HoFhNDMN_je9CJs5r035U4F_1OlG0JTmaf5PA6Q78iE2leYpuFYkOBd5sYWlcjK_Z04_w7/s1600/1821+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1039" data-original-width="1600" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KxlbiIY3dvACI8Ge2tV_A0kUMfiXQB2sI1kFYGKNuQnykLoj7tQhqy14r17Ql7HoFhNDMN_je9CJs5r035U4F_1OlG0JTmaf5PA6Q78iE2leYpuFYkOBd5sYWlcjK_Z04_w7/s640/1821+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I filled mine with a 20x20 down pillow form from Ikea. They are too under stuffed to fill any respectable 20" pillow but they're perfect for 18" pillows. Tip of the day folks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0B8_qnLjLsRHzB00V_KFMkZse0gi16yIp-yVKm8ap8KbEb19Cc4Iu_iTaioB7EoYztP8i1k9cXxKumDbVJT3Pc7NJL7yPc-NbC9HHGyqwD9JdG4U8IO2QxjkagYjzLaJcpwbD/s1600/1822+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1039" data-original-width="1600" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0B8_qnLjLsRHzB00V_KFMkZse0gi16yIp-yVKm8ap8KbEb19Cc4Iu_iTaioB7EoYztP8i1k9cXxKumDbVJT3Pc7NJL7yPc-NbC9HHGyqwD9JdG4U8IO2QxjkagYjzLaJcpwbD/s640/1822+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Look how good it looks! And no one will ever see that silly green zipper.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabSm1wdsqhdyIEwb26piGILisN1GRf4_NLHANdLHeZyYddNwLCFF04e7TGgKtaP2qP-9sNkLuobe_ZDwoJj3CKomTpt4qfAit0xs8gvgUvDOa3gvHGm8hEL_b5_CV2mQyggaD/s1600/1824+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1195" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabSm1wdsqhdyIEwb26piGILisN1GRf4_NLHANdLHeZyYddNwLCFF04e7TGgKtaP2qP-9sNkLuobe_ZDwoJj3CKomTpt4qfAit0xs8gvgUvDOa3gvHGm8hEL_b5_CV2mQyggaD/s640/1824+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhgHKV5vHPEF4OzijDMKnJ0fmWd_cD3k4Lhrh5vNTj2v31rLQHyufcovItlEeO8LeUV_YAd9vAlO9B6J5Q-JioZo7nW93XL5o8pSpEQZxCnejhAKc-yDnNxUJUDXabE6AFePD/s1600/1831+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1402" data-original-width="1600" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhgHKV5vHPEF4OzijDMKnJ0fmWd_cD3k4Lhrh5vNTj2v31rLQHyufcovItlEeO8LeUV_YAd9vAlO9B6J5Q-JioZo7nW93XL5o8pSpEQZxCnejhAKc-yDnNxUJUDXabE6AFePD/s640/1831+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMi7rLIzNRferDRn7kqr5u_OMYVko3KPGXxhuQe2njoQfD_J_umXHCSZXwuL5wPpQd2CKgOyHrD1UHDv2OkZ6v3aFPeQP9HutnwIaZtPX37wS6GdvS2vkinnCW1HpG3iR-mn7b/s1600/1834+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMi7rLIzNRferDRn7kqr5u_OMYVko3KPGXxhuQe2njoQfD_J_umXHCSZXwuL5wPpQd2CKgOyHrD1UHDv2OkZ6v3aFPeQP9HutnwIaZtPX37wS6GdvS2vkinnCW1HpG3iR-mn7b/s640/1834+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stacks of piped pillows with lapped zippers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErgk7Gos0CznBXE6fHe6oPQEwqoidTH6cbDtf1AFePYmZHSLkNFoZaLx8uTYOXWrCkvoQxVHv0HpD9UtTeszJce8g8HMU9uFK3Fke46I_QVfHRviCkP0-hESCzslU58YhRC9Q/s1600/1837+piping+on+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1181" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErgk7Gos0CznBXE6fHe6oPQEwqoidTH6cbDtf1AFePYmZHSLkNFoZaLx8uTYOXWrCkvoQxVHv0HpD9UtTeszJce8g8HMU9uFK3Fke46I_QVfHRviCkP0-hESCzslU58YhRC9Q/s640/1837+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="472" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrmZVU4BHy1Kr7NmrYBsDoSEqe9gQUgWaENjJzoWPcXDPRdqgOqfRqwzE1m956GGxCohQ_zh2ZzOzg3_L-kNJCBmYBkZ0N1CH9F333YqYriVk-TRQ0pO5v6dMp6wU2K5kmv4E/s1600/1839+piping+on+pillow.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/AVvXsEhjrmZVU4BHy1Kr7NmrYBsDoSEqe9gQUgWaENjJzoWPcXDPRdqgOqfRqwzE1m956GGxCohQ_zh2ZzOzg3_L-kNJCBmYBkZ0N1CH9F333YqYriVk-TRQ0pO5v6dMp6wU2K5kmv4E/s640/1839+piping+on+pillow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh and if you like that big floral print behind it <a href="https://www.spoonflower.com/profiles/meringuedesigns" target="_blank">you can buy that fabric </a>(my design!) over at <a href="https://www.spoonflower.com/welcome" target="_blank">Spoonflower</a>. You only need a fat quarter to make an 18" square pillow. It's my <a href="http://meringuedesigns.net/dahlia" target="_blank">Dahlia embroidery design</a> turned into <a href="https://www.spoonflower.com/profiles/meringuedesigns" target="_blank">screen printed fabric</a>. I'll be adding even more fabric designs soon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2T8sibeNhDHGDbAlxTm39guVm09v8LE5m2GZLqC8i8Lc35y3rjo6Wc80twKTP0dzsvThWJitvSbAH7VlFeXSUnS_UYwUlbTPxJxbJtDv6_tI5I8lTBZWgSQYkYntnvzI82Wz7/s1600/1758+dahlia+fabric+from+spoonflower.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/AVvXsEh2T8sibeNhDHGDbAlxTm39guVm09v8LE5m2GZLqC8i8Lc35y3rjo6Wc80twKTP0dzsvThWJitvSbAH7VlFeXSUnS_UYwUlbTPxJxbJtDv6_tI5I8lTBZWgSQYkYntnvzI82Wz7/s640/1758+dahlia+fabric+from+spoonflower.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhHJZkEwOH40D821BUIYKUTi33mkMeYIWZ4Qvj1U7wtXVoC7qbYyuSUZBEFB6wlDtkpIKN4g0Wkf7HgaUSRef5UCyiYm0yGPukQA73O23YxRNS0z3y2Z62jylwuK8LXXKi6d-/s1600/1759+dahlia+fabric+from+spoonflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1211" data-original-width="1600" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhHJZkEwOH40D821BUIYKUTi33mkMeYIWZ4Qvj1U7wtXVoC7qbYyuSUZBEFB6wlDtkpIKN4g0Wkf7HgaUSRef5UCyiYm0yGPukQA73O23YxRNS0z3y2Z62jylwuK8LXXKi6d-/s640/1759+dahlia+fabric+from+spoonflower.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you want to make an easier pillow, like the knife-edge pillows above, I have a tutorial for a very simple <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2011/05/how-to-install-invisible-zipper-make.html" target="_blank">invisible zipper tutorial</a>. Waaaaayyyy easier than this piping/lapped zipper tutorial. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy sewing friends!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9TarrcrjX7d28QLW3_fcLGKrN6gUgiTubnlZgkcFSe98r-bJKFwYVnA89OPJFrZXcIc7d62Cum7ZG5AINaaKLej5peGlx0JaApej-4AqWLP71H3AZ5OOcojOAo3NepEaGBkP/s1600/cynthia+logo%255B4%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="116" data-original-width="363" height="63" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9TarrcrjX7d28QLW3_fcLGKrN6gUgiTubnlZgkcFSe98r-bJKFwYVnA89OPJFrZXcIc7d62Cum7ZG5AINaaKLej5peGlx0JaApej-4AqWLP71H3AZ5OOcojOAo3NepEaGBkP/s200/cynthia+logo%255B4%255D.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-43828732056965449652017-11-04T18:31:00.000-06:002019-03-02T19:26:10.775-07:00Cranberry & Almond Sourdough<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5DvVHoMtPOk2viQjQB9Hdi2yxnvJaMosgTWh5Qs9h5NTlHKlAZA8ZbPkTFkM7-HqwYhP5O27pbSKhEBPSo1IH2XRiFsTAwjehDaMFUTwWuEsVvYvP-EzIbQT40GDF2ZCk5G0y/s1600/1067+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1069" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5DvVHoMtPOk2viQjQB9Hdi2yxnvJaMosgTWh5Qs9h5NTlHKlAZA8ZbPkTFkM7-HqwYhP5O27pbSKhEBPSo1IH2XRiFsTAwjehDaMFUTwWuEsVvYvP-EzIbQT40GDF2ZCk5G0y/s640/1067+bread.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Sourdough is about as good as it gets for bread. Homemade. Slightly tangy. Chewy crumb. And that crust. This is not a normal bread recipe with commercial yeast that is fluffy and soft, made in your mixer, and done start to finish in a few hours. This will take all day or up to 24 hours. It is mostly hands off but you do need to be around to stretch and fold the dough. It is artisan bread; made the old-fashioned way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewilbR5Oc3cAa7CPfvJnNA1UXwhIAtnQdfVsyFgmX7vZ9DfxzWPUxEjAF1LRZ6682WRqO88XDN7STkld4DU48UIk7dLVWArMGOUd23uAP8C3vGN364qr66zTZtXxPckCDudpl/s1600/1068+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewilbR5Oc3cAa7CPfvJnNA1UXwhIAtnQdfVsyFgmX7vZ9DfxzWPUxEjAF1LRZ6682WRqO88XDN7STkld4DU48UIk7dLVWArMGOUd23uAP8C3vGN364qr66zTZtXxPckCDudpl/s640/1068+bread.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't explain how to make a starter, or how to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zM50RHnWvE" target="_blank">stretch and fold dough</a>. You can go to You Tube and look up videos on how to make sourdough bread. Or buy the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tartine-Bread-Chad-Robertson/dp/0811870413/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1509839596&sr=8-1&keywords=tartine" target="_blank">Tartine</a>. Or educate yourself over at the blog <a href="https://www.theperfectloaf.com/" target="_blank">The Perfect Loaf.</a> Or do all of the above like I have done. This is just my favorite version of a fruit and nut sourdough bread. It assumes you have those skills already.<br />
<br />
THIS IS NOT A FIRST-TIME SOURDOUGH RECIPE. Not because this isn't easy (it is), but because I am scant on photos for illustrating each step.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnmMys_5LbOC-jSyl1-cjLRexfUhfSszhtZPydf0z6Mf0gLwvgV9y3gRdlxH9Jj3pMhipAKbwc-K1gaWK3hrECO3sYG3XYDo0BLkcfyMfI220Xk9gwZGSLb3k_FzbBcGsCiLIo/s1600/1069+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnmMys_5LbOC-jSyl1-cjLRexfUhfSszhtZPydf0z6Mf0gLwvgV9y3gRdlxH9Jj3pMhipAKbwc-K1gaWK3hrECO3sYG3XYDo0BLkcfyMfI220Xk9gwZGSLb3k_FzbBcGsCiLIo/s640/1069+bread.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGH0DH3vZPxZ-1-35eAj39XnFqBKq0hRSVS0_524-i4XFi2XHfOkBERdfqxvGy4GzgmuvllAXMcNnLqe3HFxs8Mu8lcac0xCqpSumV6UbUTJC6a1FD6xAfEy3TUx8Z7jvR673W/s1600/0810+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGH0DH3vZPxZ-1-35eAj39XnFqBKq0hRSVS0_524-i4XFi2XHfOkBERdfqxvGy4GzgmuvllAXMcNnLqe3HFxs8Mu8lcac0xCqpSumV6UbUTJC6a1FD6xAfEy3TUx8Z7jvR673W/s640/0810+bread.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">golden raisin and almond dough</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj98ONjClU1EPgNASnpulKX1HrHXxlrwjr1AD99KD5V8TLnPdmPPQmSsvZW-jIt9szK6AB9Ob2fkZ8l6zro-_4cSxcuCG6l35X6q17uNoeyPK9pCfoB8dcHV4z0CfeAy_rfnNkh/s1600/0814+oct+photos.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/AVvXsEj98ONjClU1EPgNASnpulKX1HrHXxlrwjr1AD99KD5V8TLnPdmPPQmSsvZW-jIt9szK6AB9Ob2fkZ8l6zro-_4cSxcuCG6l35X6q17uNoeyPK9pCfoB8dcHV4z0CfeAy_rfnNkh/s640/0814+oct+photos.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhikyyMG_eObYNjLb0IlBjh5hlhBQYXBFhRHNbxSNQCvRqIDsLwfxStRXfm8qj6TghI7TRUnppftsbddg9ku6l0XNu4LKYKxSacVYxzqvd2HXTJ6prN07jLuBGTYrAwC6DTPpUX/s1600/1077+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhikyyMG_eObYNjLb0IlBjh5hlhBQYXBFhRHNbxSNQCvRqIDsLwfxStRXfm8qj6TghI7TRUnppftsbddg9ku6l0XNu4LKYKxSacVYxzqvd2HXTJ6prN07jLuBGTYrAwC6DTPpUX/s640/1077+bread.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">banneton baskets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2lAZ92h6cc3yuSy1msTmU-vfgYOs1xU8-Vks4Drqd7Wbzc9ytzICu85FPkH78CIfvmjMWyi4HSzsdaaUAsru9c9LcxYZ6fB812GMnaKZh9ZQg8T0np-_jID69Bzzmv8MdCMz/s1600/1072+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2lAZ92h6cc3yuSy1msTmU-vfgYOs1xU8-Vks4Drqd7Wbzc9ytzICu85FPkH78CIfvmjMWyi4HSzsdaaUAsru9c9LcxYZ6fB812GMnaKZh9ZQg8T0np-_jID69Bzzmv8MdCMz/s640/1072+bread.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">loaves proofed overnight in the refrigerator</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig_gk324YotHPnP2PK9-cw29AZ0He7skdRzWUrahzJyv2ZhHFZfcCNMeFMV89vCirgRqqUh75tPJ9lWVe4AhEf_p7WsUeLwc_5V-qXm99ZBbL-YY-MtYUerKO6O7OWkynWEV9z/s1600/1073+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig_gk324YotHPnP2PK9-cw29AZ0He7skdRzWUrahzJyv2ZhHFZfcCNMeFMV89vCirgRqqUh75tPJ9lWVe4AhEf_p7WsUeLwc_5V-qXm99ZBbL-YY-MtYUerKO6O7OWkynWEV9z/s640/1073+bread.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cloche clay bakers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSe1NlAWxeK-SFMRyhGyvmAKm7fs_YaIhIcoM6bK5tO7n78ocCWs4jVDZ7hnWC0t3LZrFKUWl-zlttN8WXyMYxbo_6Ot2bLevstb6hYCisoY7kWPGYUy2wwpisQaSy4DUC88Su/s1600/IMG_7152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1355" data-original-width="1600" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSe1NlAWxeK-SFMRyhGyvmAKm7fs_YaIhIcoM6bK5tO7n78ocCWs4jVDZ7hnWC0t3LZrFKUWl-zlttN8WXyMYxbo_6Ot2bLevstb6hYCisoY7kWPGYUy2wwpisQaSy4DUC88Su/s640/IMG_7152.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Cranberry and Almond Sourdough <o:p></o:p></span></u></b><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b>
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.keepandshare.com/doc4/view.php?id=95545&da=y" target="_blank">printable recipe click here</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">Makes 2 loaves<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">by Cynthia Winward<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">608 grams
warm water*<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">167 grams
sourdough starter<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">110 grams
sugar**<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">160 grams
whole wheat flour<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">640 grams
bread flour<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">16 grams
salt<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">150 grams
cranberries or raisins<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">100 grams
sliced almonds or other nut<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">DIRECTIONS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">1. Put
sourdough starter and water in bowl and mix all together with your hand. Add
flour and mix until flour is all incorporated. Cover tightly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">2. Let sit 30 minutes
to 2 hrs covered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">3. Add the salt to the top of the dough and mix
it up the best you can with one set of stretch and folds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">4. Do one more
set of Stretch and Folds, 30-45 minutes apart. On the second Stretch and Fold,
add the fruit and nuts. Don’t worry if all the fruit/nuts don’t get mixed in
right now. They will on the next stretching. Do 1-2 more stretch and folds
every 30 minutes. If my dough seems strong I skip the last, if it seems limp I
might add another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">5. Let the covered
dough ferment on the counter or in the oven with the light on in the same bowl
for another 2 hours until it is about 1.5 times the size. If my kitchen is cold
I can let it go 3 hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">6. Divide dough
in half, pre-shape the dough on a
lightly floured board into a round. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">7. Let sit for
20 minutes covered. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">8. Shape loaves
as desired and put into well floured banneton baskets or floured cloth lined
bowl. (Cloth should be a tea towel or other lint free towel.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">9. Place
bannetons in a plastic bag that you “blow up” with air, secure it close with
twist tie. Put it fridge overnight to bake the next day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">Or to bake the
same day, let it rise another 2 hours then bake right away. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">10. 30-45
minutes before you are going to bake turn oven to 475 degrees and place baking
vessels in the oven. (Either a dutch
oven, combo cooker or cloche). I use cloche bakers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">11. Score the
loaf and place bread in pan. I use parchment paper to transfer to the pan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">12. Bake
covered at 475 for 25 minutes and remove cover. Turn oven down to 400 degrees.
Continue to bake for 15-20 minutes until bread reaches internal temp of 205.
(You might need to play with the temp and time depending on your oven.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">*This is a 76%
hydration dough, increase or decrease to your desired percentage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";">**To make this
a regular sourdough, eliminate sugar, fruit, and nuts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-86368181851582198922017-08-16T08:51:00.000-06:002017-08-16T08:56:09.309-06:00Vacation in Peru<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We took the girls to Peru this summer, from June 26-August 6, 2017. It is winter in July so it was crazy to pack winter clothes when we were dripping in sweat here in Utah. We wanted to take the girls on a non-tropical, non-beachy vacation. One where they could experience the culture a bit and use their Spanish they are learning in school. They can get tired of museums (teenagers, pffff!) so Machu Picchu seemed like a great choice. Google Translate saved us so many times! As did using Uber to get around because we really didn't have to say anything in Spanish to get an Uber driver. It really is possible to travel nowadays with the ease of technology when you don't speak the language as well as you should. I'm just a fake Mexican who doesn't speak much Spanish. Wah!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_N0rr5BBzoS5zNlTJ9yJihOXh0L1H6qum2sOYCwI-saYm5Pe0OvEFZy2Q90HjCslsVCYbwYzjjGKs4Gz34_D0Np2h1Yd_ku37TU5BJp6Ktl6mozmPzu37BbHiOPpg0bLkDid/s1600/0134+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEhH_N0rr5BBzoS5zNlTJ9yJihOXh0L1H6qum2sOYCwI-saYm5Pe0OvEFZy2Q90HjCslsVCYbwYzjjGKs4Gz34_D0Np2h1Yd_ku37TU5BJp6Ktl6mozmPzu37BbHiOPpg0bLkDid/s640/0134+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We began our trip by flying to Lima, the capital of Peru. We had lots of fun spending a day and two nights there before catching our 1-hour flight to Cusco. (We would spend one more day in Lima at the end of our trip before catching out flight back to Salt Lake City.)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspAXbiNMYQVOfWblr5A5xjdWRLbu5HbLBfCpZBKaPqnluRtQatX4NO2L1cbpCE8Y2xg61-VJRTDuybV4PLBgVuWe94N_TK4Q0eAi6Cpg1991IgMMzb1GFg132AIFFY6Goguby/s1600/9832+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="982" data-original-width="1600" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspAXbiNMYQVOfWblr5A5xjdWRLbu5HbLBfCpZBKaPqnluRtQatX4NO2L1cbpCE8Y2xg61-VJRTDuybV4PLBgVuWe94N_TK4Q0eAi6Cpg1991IgMMzb1GFg132AIFFY6Goguby/s640/9832+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">downtown Lima, Peru</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_UFXA_cvG8SnNdAhtZEjkWENz1G3eAoIeeAGUif5RJA0dm0SdU9V6pQ8-YrcvMM1-25mYs-OfLeNqwDSjsmPrqP0pDfFlNIr9e6Z6Z0T0X_3ympSVeMRrW4CAHWzp4SbZvgc-/s1600/9808+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_UFXA_cvG8SnNdAhtZEjkWENz1G3eAoIeeAGUif5RJA0dm0SdU9V6pQ8-YrcvMM1-25mYs-OfLeNqwDSjsmPrqP0pDfFlNIr9e6Z6Z0T0X_3ympSVeMRrW4CAHWzp4SbZvgc-/s640/9808+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">reading our travel guide book</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jfQU6UvucXeWEkzWT19nrHVmt7yEcsT7gc0YQVKu9cUrHapF0YhlBHYpV6Zp2QdcKeurZMVDIkNbR4Duiyeg2TV9EbZjfzr_t2OjMbrItbBvPiSXPpOGzqkR2FHulUTrKgiN/s1600/9816+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEh2jfQU6UvucXeWEkzWT19nrHVmt7yEcsT7gc0YQVKu9cUrHapF0YhlBHYpV6Zp2QdcKeurZMVDIkNbR4Duiyeg2TV9EbZjfzr_t2OjMbrItbBvPiSXPpOGzqkR2FHulUTrKgiN/s640/9816+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI80u76AbcFH8B8lLqWq3sZYG4ec-9OvyvoOViXHng6NGbFNm9KxHPolDoN_7_D12sBTfmfkGgsjjG44_R9ssdkzMo7wqI4biBJ6vN1A0DZxd2v4mVN8wSfF0biTPUJHH8q3kw/s1600/9819+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1046" data-original-width="1600" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI80u76AbcFH8B8lLqWq3sZYG4ec-9OvyvoOViXHng6NGbFNm9KxHPolDoN_7_D12sBTfmfkGgsjjG44_R9ssdkzMo7wqI4biBJ6vN1A0DZxd2v4mVN8wSfF0biTPUJHH8q3kw/s640/9819+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ilene posing with a mannequin with a speaker strapped to its body blasting music. Weird!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXl5uSKpUzWfdlZlnBTHe7_zrTecEJUGikcGNVgyVYliUBkfrXbJTR2sD8ZB2LXcnslantAMKYAjOCMhrJQAKqqwbW6GEEeyTvkAP4e6hXduBHCW5rzBPIgJAWiMAg4qIrabs/s1600/9828+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXl5uSKpUzWfdlZlnBTHe7_zrTecEJUGikcGNVgyVYliUBkfrXbJTR2sD8ZB2LXcnslantAMKYAjOCMhrJQAKqqwbW6GEEeyTvkAP4e6hXduBHCW5rzBPIgJAWiMAg4qIrabs/s640/9828+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">scheduling an Uber driver to take us back to hotel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a day in Lima we flew to Cusco. Actually we missed our flight to Cusco because we showed up at 6pm instead of 6am. So we actually stayed two nights in Lima because we are dummies.<br />
<br />
Welcome to Cusco and have some coca leaves as you exit the plane to help with altitude sickness. The altitude is 11,000 feet. It never bothered me seeing as we already live at 4500 feet but we took some coca leaves anyway. :) And brought a few back to the USA which is apparently illegal. Woops. Coca tea is kinda gross but we drank some anyway just to stay warm.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC2AYoXjhVzF_LWMuWg1-okc4QwpaYM9ZEPQEgTzwab5f_aNd3MCYJYz8lbH93wQNChX2I_lvZthJ_sQ2JJAArKreIcI-xhTEG3PdfV8x4UAw-uofazNjFRTOoyqS_iDjSZszg/s1600/IMG_5842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC2AYoXjhVzF_LWMuWg1-okc4QwpaYM9ZEPQEgTzwab5f_aNd3MCYJYz8lbH93wQNChX2I_lvZthJ_sQ2JJAArKreIcI-xhTEG3PdfV8x4UAw-uofazNjFRTOoyqS_iDjSZszg/s640/IMG_5842.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
Once we arrived in the unheated Cusco airport (brrrr!) we booked a tour for the day that took us to the ruins and Pisaq then on to Urubamba for lunch (horrid buffet), then to Ollantaytambo to see more ruins. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUw3hd548gYzznW1XHbc3IjQJBh-6wMnDrrIsZNM5YC9IaMMUm8mkIJZUNYI-yvN1r64AcF9PFfTwmrpPcLb0m3oIyr1whsdj683OP7gaFAWmXJiwS6D1nAKK0zB590R6CGvA/s1600/9855+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="1600" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUw3hd548gYzznW1XHbc3IjQJBh-6wMnDrrIsZNM5YC9IaMMUm8mkIJZUNYI-yvN1r64AcF9PFfTwmrpPcLb0m3oIyr1whsdj683OP7gaFAWmXJiwS6D1nAKK0zB590R6CGvA/s640/9855+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toilet stop somewhere in the Andes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8hBJApZ2MV7x-xm9fplU5iLF8V_2Uy-vRHXpuZLRwt9p3Y4OIMQD2xpXdnpOjrO6uxv3xjguWyyxGy9exviZkvrwVg3Q-J_P9n-Mmy-hWDN2fruQ5rffg8K_hDSALRACcvpH/s1600/9853+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1010" data-original-width="1600" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8hBJApZ2MV7x-xm9fplU5iLF8V_2Uy-vRHXpuZLRwt9p3Y4OIMQD2xpXdnpOjrO6uxv3xjguWyyxGy9exviZkvrwVg3Q-J_P9n-Mmy-hWDN2fruQ5rffg8K_hDSALRACcvpH/s640/9853+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAhMbWO2RpqXoRDJ6BUu1jAqg4rXeKhVXyxbF-XMdLijeq4GPZT8Fh494JgCqmxBtCh7SfYhuQRrKJQVAmArJRz3H0K7sy7KCtoVLmGh1wsB4Ace5L0_umW_1lErL0bj54VGR/s1600/9846+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="947" data-original-width="1600" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAhMbWO2RpqXoRDJ6BUu1jAqg4rXeKhVXyxbF-XMdLijeq4GPZT8Fh494JgCqmxBtCh7SfYhuQRrKJQVAmArJRz3H0K7sy7KCtoVLmGh1wsB4Ace5L0_umW_1lErL0bj54VGR/s640/9846+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For a few soles you can have your picture taken with the beautiful women and children.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBFROCPVDZdUWJXQIiVlN8rin9uGfYAdhmUMHNxnpXOikSRYbVzMNNJUFoT9oamCPFg4ybtQ04SfIak3lALEecnMy9lR6f099XMaYrX8L6CXVamt_A2ncdNY3OJ8ATJiy1I-kL/s1600/9856+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1172" data-original-width="1600" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBFROCPVDZdUWJXQIiVlN8rin9uGfYAdhmUMHNxnpXOikSRYbVzMNNJUFoT9oamCPFg4ybtQ04SfIak3lALEecnMy9lR6f099XMaYrX8L6CXVamt_A2ncdNY3OJ8ATJiy1I-kL/s640/9856+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4AuTrRxWfNGMtD_0F6eOXh2ghD2sfaZh0FH2gH82ScJhplZt_QEfJdS7ts1pjQSdMaaUWvqOHpM02OZ7Zjk4yY4jzDVfki8_o5zNx8H1Tm8_bSiIebxH5pw6tX8pBU16-i1lJ/s1600/9859+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4AuTrRxWfNGMtD_0F6eOXh2ghD2sfaZh0FH2gH82ScJhplZt_QEfJdS7ts1pjQSdMaaUWvqOHpM02OZ7Zjk4yY4jzDVfki8_o5zNx8H1Tm8_bSiIebxH5pw6tX8pBU16-i1lJ/s640/9859+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sacred Valley en route to Pisaq</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZ-6EebKioFwQlo3g7K_GvcscmLOBv3bL4B7zdPZXaBWMiwF5dwJfSm8eAOAFe0pBRafwMOVf45aewfiqgRnuylM48UVGdYSNR5e77_u1mPrQNC4lgYH-vqXHe0nzyJjJR935/s1600/9877+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZ-6EebKioFwQlo3g7K_GvcscmLOBv3bL4B7zdPZXaBWMiwF5dwJfSm8eAOAFe0pBRafwMOVf45aewfiqgRnuylM48UVGdYSNR5e77_u1mPrQNC4lgYH-vqXHe0nzyJjJR935/s640/9877+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ruins of Pisaq</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gpxRi9wb5fhc5sCzq2cLyzBDc-ivl1gTmLXQyHsepfE6AI-8jBt07DfHgVet-LJnzcJx9_Arw2JkSH049Gps_JbrBpmXEBo_kun5Nr2ruChAKDDKi8_rjsdLBA1BMznv2W3m/s1600/9879+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEg0gpxRi9wb5fhc5sCzq2cLyzBDc-ivl1gTmLXQyHsepfE6AI-8jBt07DfHgVet-LJnzcJx9_Arw2JkSH049Gps_JbrBpmXEBo_kun5Nr2ruChAKDDKi8_rjsdLBA1BMznv2W3m/s640/9879+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1HWbVcjygTroY-G89I_oSelGYCGFoNGzBAyeBRrxxDSrnsFozYfIH-Ay2ULy-2wc1sZIHbIZOJElWBY18w-s8ieS4PVMji1NJk8cZv1ecZ7KyquLtz0MQygTxL5UT1tEPbTE/s1600/9886+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEjq1HWbVcjygTroY-G89I_oSelGYCGFoNGzBAyeBRrxxDSrnsFozYfIH-Ay2ULy-2wc1sZIHbIZOJElWBY18w-s8ieS4PVMji1NJk8cZv1ecZ7KyquLtz0MQygTxL5UT1tEPbTE/s640/9886+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9L9yO3hJCvPIjHdC6UwIJPyNrV82fc2Eq8PzANdBmESR9M4tcuE9ntRHVPKShkaSjctsev0qVWNv7a61vqoX7Bn2S_M1U1BgJGWa44N7ky2RfbZjr3sJrSQVIqcWs9fAQov2/s1600/9891+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9L9yO3hJCvPIjHdC6UwIJPyNrV82fc2Eq8PzANdBmESR9M4tcuE9ntRHVPKShkaSjctsev0qVWNv7a61vqoX7Bn2S_M1U1BgJGWa44N7ky2RfbZjr3sJrSQVIqcWs9fAQov2/s640/9891+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing, climbing, always climbing in any Incan ruins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrMVCME5_cCI-AEWYznNCyfAZoniFIZHs4MTWzZ3D85fB9RqfDjYM2Rb7CWEaxL36_apfJxbWc8uBi-8AMyTyEc-Jvb9rwXoMgXwexfEw-_OOaOO5S1B7hfgGPKcNRH2Df8rt/s1600/9901+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrMVCME5_cCI-AEWYznNCyfAZoniFIZHs4MTWzZ3D85fB9RqfDjYM2Rb7CWEaxL36_apfJxbWc8uBi-8AMyTyEc-Jvb9rwXoMgXwexfEw-_OOaOO5S1B7hfgGPKcNRH2Df8rt/s640/9901+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Incan ruins of Pisaq</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3viUimkt8H1pCLlCFqvgZ-nSIZVQ0RUribqV2J7wU4yv7JyVMSmaS_lrkVY_BF4NultK9TnbzBUjb2aJoNMp6bTA3eE66yqyGkgutZXM5X5gH8C-vD6tS9Mqg03gmnKwtgruI/s1600/9904+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEg3viUimkt8H1pCLlCFqvgZ-nSIZVQ0RUribqV2J7wU4yv7JyVMSmaS_lrkVY_BF4NultK9TnbzBUjb2aJoNMp6bTA3eE66yqyGkgutZXM5X5gH8C-vD6tS9Mqg03gmnKwtgruI/s640/9904+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin09h3gycyZJU0Cbw7sGvzonw0bYvLOFFW1v54nEZe9VhNzsLGtiocYoLCjP84d-idrZ95rY992MpX10JJteZ5gKKsLXWxSsU_cC1Zdb5TQh3XW1TkxQLslh34uzyuQNYlb9PN/s1600/9905+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEin09h3gycyZJU0Cbw7sGvzonw0bYvLOFFW1v54nEZe9VhNzsLGtiocYoLCjP84d-idrZ95rY992MpX10JJteZ5gKKsLXWxSsU_cC1Zdb5TQh3XW1TkxQLslh34uzyuQNYlb9PN/s640/9905+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8aUyKfIaCei77CrS-MA3C2fyC4UUCLcIcSFxSHGTiLynYCXSeNy3_N-4vLh0QcpBSppWatw0iygD1_9jdFWiDvk-E7UHaUbTOesDnc_vvYP2Pe0GgkKp6ZKVpRItFF5Ug3yB/s1600/9907+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEii8aUyKfIaCei77CrS-MA3C2fyC4UUCLcIcSFxSHGTiLynYCXSeNy3_N-4vLh0QcpBSppWatw0iygD1_9jdFWiDvk-E7UHaUbTOesDnc_vvYP2Pe0GgkKp6ZKVpRItFF5Ug3yB/s640/9907+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Nf4PiD6RLjL75LBUzGS1_-BNnYBI6wWQirYAQykxtQ2dfN1NuVpdN4l66f-l3-H2TWLLLf_VfKvghBVKISS4pWVXMisYD3MGfA-Z0solhGi8grE4K4GNKTqR6Ipb9i8nU6vR/s1600/9908+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Nf4PiD6RLjL75LBUzGS1_-BNnYBI6wWQirYAQykxtQ2dfN1NuVpdN4l66f-l3-H2TWLLLf_VfKvghBVKISS4pWVXMisYD3MGfA-Z0solhGi8grE4K4GNKTqR6Ipb9i8nU6vR/s640/9908+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">vendors at Pisaq</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl0t40becoKW8wdpeSmWbZuWV-MjWfQDEpTQN5T4G5Md5tAah1CsZpfHIL2CErJpYoAxHcCoc4azgjxWIQMHM-oHtv4pmWZQhrlsZ1pVPK8J2CiZ_2BBFdHe3HSXIWh9mmhp2n/s1600/9909+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl0t40becoKW8wdpeSmWbZuWV-MjWfQDEpTQN5T4G5Md5tAah1CsZpfHIL2CErJpYoAxHcCoc4azgjxWIQMHM-oHtv4pmWZQhrlsZ1pVPK8J2CiZ_2BBFdHe3HSXIWh9mmhp2n/s640/9909+peru+2017.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
After Pisaq and Urubamba we ended up in Ollantaytambo where we toured the ruins for maybe an hour. We didn't have much time because our train was already booked for that night to take us to Aguas Calientes.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsp1eLg82Oqbvh66Yf5-0YOCo9Krrbt7xLqbhXor6hLQdAnv4S3BX7R8LWKo3BBOMZT89Vbz-aAMRnzK41D6Z_A5qRiyOHOTWN7taf4EDjBTt2vJkCMLYWQF-pHEwOAuMrpKso/s1600/9914+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsp1eLg82Oqbvh66Yf5-0YOCo9Krrbt7xLqbhXor6hLQdAnv4S3BX7R8LWKo3BBOMZT89Vbz-aAMRnzK41D6Z_A5qRiyOHOTWN7taf4EDjBTt2vJkCMLYWQF-pHEwOAuMrpKso/s640/9914+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ollantaytambo, Peru</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtzJce2MrBuiU7tL7dMeuq5gwJLFpvKjZI1u9CQznyPURza5yprKFioYWyxBR3e-h49fBpaVohCvbXaZho7Y_M1CNxKdYSCHUiAUyMhL05xVj6VC9c6v6HF-VMYduj3jsFyYf/s1600/9917+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1167" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtzJce2MrBuiU7tL7dMeuq5gwJLFpvKjZI1u9CQznyPURza5yprKFioYWyxBR3e-h49fBpaVohCvbXaZho7Y_M1CNxKdYSCHUiAUyMhL05xVj6VC9c6v6HF-VMYduj3jsFyYf/s640/9917+peru+2017.jpg" width="466" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Incan ruins at Ollantaytambo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNRRa8lwfWM0e7XXp1_xcPqPrVruL0n8snZvqp7fpASGrbpqN3BZu5Xn7V1qCVGH5NIhv87l71zDRXizQur-kgR0UVgTW6o-4mXbum2ivvi5sCrD6qovWSQgp6eboPzWgWz_yU/s1600/9923+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEjNRRa8lwfWM0e7XXp1_xcPqPrVruL0n8snZvqp7fpASGrbpqN3BZu5Xn7V1qCVGH5NIhv87l71zDRXizQur-kgR0UVgTW6o-4mXbum2ivvi5sCrD6qovWSQgp6eboPzWgWz_yU/s640/9923+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNVKoWvLTlryUXWXYpPEE-zdSikmb1VLRFpGLhNJMKX_Bt1SeceaUo9Q-xqQJDWyAIQLIfAW1yxYOpFQ22RRA5qWy-UB1pVvn0coo675aD-rseHe24NcKrfoUp2rCwNzf9RUc/s1600/9926+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNVKoWvLTlryUXWXYpPEE-zdSikmb1VLRFpGLhNJMKX_Bt1SeceaUo9Q-xqQJDWyAIQLIfAW1yxYOpFQ22RRA5qWy-UB1pVvn0coo675aD-rseHe24NcKrfoUp2rCwNzf9RUc/s640/9926+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We should have planned better to spend more time at these ruins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After an hour in Ollantaytambo we then left the tour bus group to catch the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Village where we would stay the night before yet another bus ride to climb up to Machu Picchu. I honestly had no idea to get to Macchu Picchu required so many planes, trains, buses, and taxis. It's pretty darn remote. The town of Aguas Calientes is, well, kinda weird. The only reason it exists is to cater to the tourists who go to Macchu Picchu. There really aren't any cars allowed there because there are no roads to exit the town from what I could tell. It's just a bunch of weird shady hotels, marginal restaurants, and more Peruvian stuff for sale.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpsDanpLvFdA6-ZoZEyROFPSabZm6XQQpDgiGsmkFXP5Yn6SJBKH18U62KKTvC35nbb7xwS3Fc0HcUSpJ9AZOMqYghJmVPJmI92ZQYs4pM_MDvSjxlbV3S2BY9VAwuE7O-YQx/s1600/0202+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpsDanpLvFdA6-ZoZEyROFPSabZm6XQQpDgiGsmkFXP5Yn6SJBKH18U62KKTvC35nbb7xwS3Fc0HcUSpJ9AZOMqYghJmVPJmI92ZQYs4pM_MDvSjxlbV3S2BY9VAwuE7O-YQx/s640/0202+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aguas Calientes, Peru</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdY_K7RRnZ-50RrJ-X-FflMBGm6FuukGDq7WQCBPSmBs6i7rcYOMznjQTi0HFCgF4GQJE1N7zbMPzUoP8wM06xrsY2nXn7ZVUAI9vScS_pfStijbGnXO8q2hZ4qPKBqMi_D2Gs/s1600/0206+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEhdY_K7RRnZ-50RrJ-X-FflMBGm6FuukGDq7WQCBPSmBs6i7rcYOMznjQTi0HFCgF4GQJE1N7zbMPzUoP8wM06xrsY2nXn7ZVUAI9vScS_pfStijbGnXO8q2hZ4qPKBqMi_D2Gs/s640/0206+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0THi9l9EGQ17JWdAHm-Ob2CSEO0ytRgrSZD0aEwgIU0whm8fVH-VSrgR5r59ueVznoXy4L121lvfaN2UuW-gihLVs1sj7DOPpogXbcOVsOksn2zztbGe0aG8DNI1NQcdsPYmD/s1600/0207+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEh0THi9l9EGQ17JWdAHm-Ob2CSEO0ytRgrSZD0aEwgIU0whm8fVH-VSrgR5r59ueVznoXy4L121lvfaN2UuW-gihLVs1sj7DOPpogXbcOVsOksn2zztbGe0aG8DNI1NQcdsPYmD/s640/0207+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoddtzjzfOMPRRod0UIJ5cW094tQ7YPtjlKNl54Xj73CfgevCDKv9fXIBDb60DEL7QJ1sP62PUduRUfOswW8C8T7CGZBIDPLnZcwyQ5zCZBE2FzANxLeY6cFEaG2xhpws16JOA/s1600/0209+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoddtzjzfOMPRRod0UIJ5cW094tQ7YPtjlKNl54Xj73CfgevCDKv9fXIBDb60DEL7QJ1sP62PUduRUfOswW8C8T7CGZBIDPLnZcwyQ5zCZBE2FzANxLeY6cFEaG2xhpws16JOA/s640/0209+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aquas Calientes is definitely made for the tourist</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIkgKWohqjgWH268mLVArUeaKbqZhzPHjKdpmWomyezlx79OXbMCBRlb0M-mEc2zUjJtvxFDvnq0mCO7GyLIM_AbSFcOUQluLWZU8mA6xmbvo2GgKgjzN3dm8ZO5rWsbkTfoHb/s1600/0214+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1111" data-original-width="1600" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIkgKWohqjgWH268mLVArUeaKbqZhzPHjKdpmWomyezlx79OXbMCBRlb0M-mEc2zUjJtvxFDvnq0mCO7GyLIM_AbSFcOUQluLWZU8mA6xmbvo2GgKgjzN3dm8ZO5rWsbkTfoHb/s640/0214+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOYrlNX-GXfiGfEKNGcQdghKzHs9CiRZP9aVW16FClnZazp09mTtZx1pJVEZvJy4exIl9KSFb_F3-SVueqKPb7Jft-0GI9WeTgNIHy93rjw2rt0yhrRYJrB8Zkshrb1SA87wp5/s1600/0215+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1083" data-original-width="1600" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOYrlNX-GXfiGfEKNGcQdghKzHs9CiRZP9aVW16FClnZazp09mTtZx1pJVEZvJy4exIl9KSFb_F3-SVueqKPb7Jft-0GI9WeTgNIHy93rjw2rt0yhrRYJrB8Zkshrb1SA87wp5/s640/0215+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our hotel was right along the railroad tracks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After a night in our hotel we got up at 4:30 am to eat breakfast and then stand in the bus line for an hour with thousands of other people. We wanted to get to Machu Picchu early for misty photos.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqv3uApg2QDp2F_RHBJ2Z2blx4eWTIySwdiiYUMaxpVzEfrmVbxVQy72ZO2rI1CSy9I6iNx8A6bzbvymBy8XxwKzwcEberRCRvP2cDueVzbPtSkloldoSnoTm1tHsy3New5vDq/s1600/IMG_5883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1281" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqv3uApg2QDp2F_RHBJ2Z2blx4eWTIySwdiiYUMaxpVzEfrmVbxVQy72ZO2rI1CSy9I6iNx8A6bzbvymBy8XxwKzwcEberRCRvP2cDueVzbPtSkloldoSnoTm1tHsy3New5vDq/s640/IMG_5883.JPG" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Long line for a bus to Machu Picchu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9NULh2eDlwUMFrgC0kH_ImyUAjcjK9NBpur0Hl-8YOaqEkH-_KshvNFMkFwWFHsyEmmYfAdbOmFuKJcx4facEF_hUiPKpcP-qtBckDjFkouQY89qVqr4QQbOcIOoIo6FXytT/s1600/9929+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9NULh2eDlwUMFrgC0kH_ImyUAjcjK9NBpur0Hl-8YOaqEkH-_KshvNFMkFwWFHsyEmmYfAdbOmFuKJcx4facEF_hUiPKpcP-qtBckDjFkouQY89qVqr4QQbOcIOoIo6FXytT/s640/9929+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arrived! Early morning about 7:45am</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Bc1se3h5ZyFAv8HFD83vqzWN4tM024QOPlc0bs0sflQtxzsC0BTN_phKhMgZtGdeqAkyU6300YLuZqV05QPg2g-MUTleqeiCGWhMyDivGyyx-xp3SAS2pBO9XC3iEZVSgF3H/s1600/9932+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Bc1se3h5ZyFAv8HFD83vqzWN4tM024QOPlc0bs0sflQtxzsC0BTN_phKhMgZtGdeqAkyU6300YLuZqV05QPg2g-MUTleqeiCGWhMyDivGyyx-xp3SAS2pBO9XC3iEZVSgF3H/s640/9932+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So worth it to get up early for these shots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHmIHKnchd2a0Tr2Mt31SNKy6_Tfg6dUP39ZxYiEvmpntc_HWSrdC3GUXx5jHfjq8sJgaxJAMsYWkSiZnz2qI90EIPS6eAX7N01Kmd9oWp1hx5knPckHuSH6r40Kvim4EPO5CI/s1600/9937+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1114" data-original-width="1600" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHmIHKnchd2a0Tr2Mt31SNKy6_Tfg6dUP39ZxYiEvmpntc_HWSrdC3GUXx5jHfjq8sJgaxJAMsYWkSiZnz2qI90EIPS6eAX7N01Kmd9oWp1hx5knPckHuSH6r40Kvim4EPO5CI/s640/9937+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwTfliAfKVGJib0muESvYY_079I5W2lQsthNj64Pik7YBcIMBMp0tyPqTJ0NIlT1BeOrNzRca3Veavwd7zYfex3mEoQ0-c2jrLmvJAh5TPzYsBYTcT4fSYG9ID82GPxqj68URh/s1600/9938+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1073" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwTfliAfKVGJib0muESvYY_079I5W2lQsthNj64Pik7YBcIMBMp0tyPqTJ0NIlT1BeOrNzRca3Veavwd7zYfex3mEoQ0-c2jrLmvJAh5TPzYsBYTcT4fSYG9ID82GPxqj68URh/s640/9938+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP10JZNx1kSWXy0kN5QiS1iu4OPB_Wjd0KTNvId5fKoCBI2ZClCSeGYXoeOk4sCJehF9Ogq_v2Z1TzNd0FWP7yTFSYvAX3cZ_tKdXSHoukaPD_wBRB1gUM5J-k5fhSsErKTHu_/s1600/9941+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP10JZNx1kSWXy0kN5QiS1iu4OPB_Wjd0KTNvId5fKoCBI2ZClCSeGYXoeOk4sCJehF9Ogq_v2Z1TzNd0FWP7yTFSYvAX3cZ_tKdXSHoukaPD_wBRB1gUM5J-k5fhSsErKTHu_/s640/9941+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just me, enjoying the morning.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQ2SynZhA0GCkCaoH8k3MSBmvMaLjFgA5Tnm5gHlRobR1GE1WYwsu07XW6ej-jPBce-Gp1deXg6YUMlfemlYN4UXyMSEhXmRLWXE8z2aE7Rpm6aNPPrbJPPwswy-4awvgt1-9/s1600/9958+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQ2SynZhA0GCkCaoH8k3MSBmvMaLjFgA5Tnm5gHlRobR1GE1WYwsu07XW6ej-jPBce-Gp1deXg6YUMlfemlYN4UXyMSEhXmRLWXE8z2aE7Rpm6aNPPrbJPPwswy-4awvgt1-9/s640/9958+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glad I dressed in layers as it warmed up quickly in the sun with all that hiking.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxcOUonRXyrdGlZMQnGfDNcgePbmeZehYmWZEn1fI1wse21_FepWm5MgZIk5hfN5W-dS7EEVK6JNIHnGCALf0wYzV4eIBpCgDallXkmlCbx4FWvUXWKz2Fg3htIhasUl4FIuZ/s1600/9947+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxcOUonRXyrdGlZMQnGfDNcgePbmeZehYmWZEn1fI1wse21_FepWm5MgZIk5hfN5W-dS7EEVK6JNIHnGCALf0wYzV4eIBpCgDallXkmlCbx4FWvUXWKz2Fg3htIhasUl4FIuZ/s640/9947+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hallie needed a rest here and there so we sent Paul and Ilene to the sun temple without us.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGWo5YJqtf_hz-tJvm00DqtHXT9Z2BN_9gW0h9JzsCUx8NlEnk10Ix8Sj0TeyZCZestvnBxCcj_H5KedFHkukR3CSap3BzzoqTEQAL5jHnz-rJwvT6kKdTLY2258l3ujCN6AB/s1600/9944+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEiNGWo5YJqtf_hz-tJvm00DqtHXT9Z2BN_9gW0h9JzsCUx8NlEnk10Ix8Sj0TeyZCZestvnBxCcj_H5KedFHkukR3CSap3BzzoqTEQAL5jHnz-rJwvT6kKdTLY2258l3ujCN6AB/s640/9944+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5ueExvDFWboVkPl5wzphAzeuvzPlif5By-bDdbTS8hh0UENnKHHD3ZIug_pWW3Ax_7ioyfWOe3KN017CZFkVnihuWTpkEMVfi7H_TJ2H8Zj6EUTLi5kJuUBKhaA5MPk34f_g/s1600/9949+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5ueExvDFWboVkPl5wzphAzeuvzPlif5By-bDdbTS8hh0UENnKHHD3ZIug_pWW3Ax_7ioyfWOe3KN017CZFkVnihuWTpkEMVfi7H_TJ2H8Zj6EUTLi5kJuUBKhaA5MPk34f_g/s640/9949+peru+2017.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggDB2NKR2DK2KMAW9BMglyJIp7yOF02C9rCz-r-jIiaDGOHFmTjgZhoHL3FIsMjN7On6qMn1JndLcUnnvZDXVj5TlOEB1_Fi0YLhXikct13Cep3489fsk5LdaBiGNxo0xPxHy9/s1600/9951+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEggDB2NKR2DK2KMAW9BMglyJIp7yOF02C9rCz-r-jIiaDGOHFmTjgZhoHL3FIsMjN7On6qMn1JndLcUnnvZDXVj5TlOEB1_Fi0YLhXikct13Cep3489fsk5LdaBiGNxo0xPxHy9/s640/9951+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dysJLuKbgot9-Xl9KYuAyaYRr7PS8evXx4rZ0ArJVfZXQzYj0-r6ZAWzKFerXd7oHmUf3UD3CabSZk' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
To say this this place is massive in an understatement. We spent about eight hours at Machu Picchu, just walking all over the many ruins. I think Paul's Fit Bit said he hiked 12 miles and 684 flights of stairs. My calves were sore for days.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqyH4o-8l-5q-xuGjG9kjyrw_8U6gMbJKLy7kgqQYJZPjOdW-spuDfE-SYX4SHKFvFSorSrSqvI9_9gxTGB6jPfMbyQyswBxnJy6vCEntUnJC_x9MUnlv0YaxjDvOiKu6e83H1/s1600/0057+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqyH4o-8l-5q-xuGjG9kjyrw_8U6gMbJKLy7kgqQYJZPjOdW-spuDfE-SYX4SHKFvFSorSrSqvI9_9gxTGB6jPfMbyQyswBxnJy6vCEntUnJC_x9MUnlv0YaxjDvOiKu6e83H1/s640/0057+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How on earth the Incas built all this is beyond me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicW58ADIFWfPMi34c6HAS82VChOGGLI7mlYi-LKH8xio_4dagCVnwBJtJi0M6Y1h7VNEVZ8gB_zBJ1U-hbeMCCzoUgBZKzoqzB5AHBReg7Jqk-cKRdydz2wjJV7Yg3b47O6sb5/s1600/0053+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicW58ADIFWfPMi34c6HAS82VChOGGLI7mlYi-LKH8xio_4dagCVnwBJtJi0M6Y1h7VNEVZ8gB_zBJ1U-hbeMCCzoUgBZKzoqzB5AHBReg7Jqk-cKRdydz2wjJV7Yg3b47O6sb5/s640/0053+peru+2017.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tMVXQWDHVhyphenhyphenJyzEgAztdH9ItxQoj-fdKnCGneohHsnPjc8GGYMdHDsQUZuQl0Wc7neFCABqAHNLCis_zb-m6-wvB4Xi_pfSggCIk-idVlMEGVWnP9e4TWtULsneVWrhcnxq1/s1600/0091+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEj6tMVXQWDHVhyphenhyphenJyzEgAztdH9ItxQoj-fdKnCGneohHsnPjc8GGYMdHDsQUZuQl0Wc7neFCABqAHNLCis_zb-m6-wvB4Xi_pfSggCIk-idVlMEGVWnP9e4TWtULsneVWrhcnxq1/s640/0091+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8LlyeSayYrBc_j6O-LCAIS7297fI90MxqBVprPAkmAXVi-WXENNwDUPH8-WzQAqE9BojN1LiCr2oqI-mFKpT6LiBRlkO-3KlKDF6gu-0-gHYQVPudt1dukINEoVAwGOM07gL/s1600/0022+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEhR8LlyeSayYrBc_j6O-LCAIS7297fI90MxqBVprPAkmAXVi-WXENNwDUPH8-WzQAqE9BojN1LiCr2oqI-mFKpT6LiBRlkO-3KlKDF6gu-0-gHYQVPudt1dukINEoVAwGOM07gL/s640/0022+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5krJovmgB7IsdTlBD3w8HSIQ8y6qkoiIZnIytqdOuQk-Wp6H1DZVIAILcbI_bcAfR5vtZFO1A4UYNqZjJ0POPhxDFAj8HfgGknWWEFvd0qeMvQKZJGhgSX_TLFXDPNAcopg4h/s1600/0033+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEj5krJovmgB7IsdTlBD3w8HSIQ8y6qkoiIZnIytqdOuQk-Wp6H1DZVIAILcbI_bcAfR5vtZFO1A4UYNqZjJ0POPhxDFAj8HfgGknWWEFvd0qeMvQKZJGhgSX_TLFXDPNAcopg4h/s640/0033+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Carrying my camera can get heavy so we often took turns carrying it. It is about five pounds with my Tamron 24-70mm lens. It was definitely worth it to me but I admit sometimes wishing I had a pocket camera.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBz2HlX1UnIF9BS75zgqBhzkO8oUeSGLmjfOc2mYfTjxn4diY-ZwlBH6zkiMDqpxpxwwXT9e9Dag_B_zyaShFN5SNR2GWD8qMXTyBlEPpFQR7nLtgnSgyx5D6gLYrQyaeaayv/s1600/IMG_5980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBz2HlX1UnIF9BS75zgqBhzkO8oUeSGLmjfOc2mYfTjxn4diY-ZwlBH6zkiMDqpxpxwwXT9e9Dag_B_zyaShFN5SNR2GWD8qMXTyBlEPpFQR7nLtgnSgyx5D6gLYrQyaeaayv/s640/IMG_5980.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A big dSLR is worth it at a place like Machu Pichu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Hiking and exploring is fun but taking lots of breaks just to enjoy the view and have some snacks was probably my favorite part.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXA_7izYFy-vM5O3iQBIsaJwRLAnw1OERJB-Q_ojW5zggwt8rVEURDqt3RKv2ARO2ihK320_QHdsShsHI7dPlOKTBpN4TKAIIoG8Q2bCVTcmmO6YKcHaTzF8o7MeSHNngcTd7X/s1600/0109+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEjXA_7izYFy-vM5O3iQBIsaJwRLAnw1OERJB-Q_ojW5zggwt8rVEURDqt3RKv2ARO2ihK320_QHdsShsHI7dPlOKTBpN4TKAIIoG8Q2bCVTcmmO6YKcHaTzF8o7MeSHNngcTd7X/s640/0109+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Photographing Machu Picchu was amazing but snapping these kinds of shots with my girls was priceless.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMNzdwd8Bq3Hs29fKXDoasMx08yb9WshB_o7nOOCUCroXondHcHoSYi5fT9ikeZS1a1jD8L9ehowMn7YrcuDBbpM2iq1J3_wQea4NrpyAa8rHTQ4fOjyWUAo_QHipX-6Py5bs/s1600/0116+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1107" data-original-width="1600" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMNzdwd8Bq3Hs29fKXDoasMx08yb9WshB_o7nOOCUCroXondHcHoSYi5fT9ikeZS1a1jD8L9ehowMn7YrcuDBbpM2iq1J3_wQea4NrpyAa8rHTQ4fOjyWUAo_QHipX-6Py5bs/s640/0116+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon d750, Tamron 24-70mm lens, ISO 250, f.4, 1/1000</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39wB6miLPgTcrDmymhBBetk1T0SvCUStAPa7xI8ScaZKs7n9m16BymwBzaZJ486zYH3HsTYSj45NXRUdfUz_boJLqcxnY0CXESpIYSYBc2KkVFBkE6Cx6Yz_5-5o5Hd579zQ0/s1600/0118+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEh39wB6miLPgTcrDmymhBBetk1T0SvCUStAPa7xI8ScaZKs7n9m16BymwBzaZJ486zYH3HsTYSj45NXRUdfUz_boJLqcxnY0CXESpIYSYBc2KkVFBkE6Cx6Yz_5-5o5Hd579zQ0/s640/0118+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCflWb1dhoj7yXVTfoJ7wyaTrSIQdVvlvRk3X2e_SIix-I8wwwfnzCbaE2KoXefAr325w9fLkLjGMKnYWEL6sw4TjFHD_WgbPTFQPBWR-osY481CgGL1jchKJ7nTALxBRV_9Ej/s1600/0130+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEiCflWb1dhoj7yXVTfoJ7wyaTrSIQdVvlvRk3X2e_SIix-I8wwwfnzCbaE2KoXefAr325w9fLkLjGMKnYWEL6sw4TjFHD_WgbPTFQPBWR-osY481CgGL1jchKJ7nTALxBRV_9Ej/s640/0130+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
After our trip to Machu Picchu we took the train the next day back to Ollantaytambo where we had the best hotel stay of our trip at the <a href="http://www.elalbergue.com/" target="_blank">El Albergue</a>. This was our day to do nothing--no climbing hills, ruins, or museums. The girls were really excited to just get a little extra sleep and be lazy. I was too. Travel is hard, fun, and also tiring. I want to go back to Peru just to stay at this hotel. The restaurant had amazing food as well. If the train schedule was possible, I would try to figure out how to stay here two nights and skip the hotels in Aguas Calientes altogether.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglU8xiIbs09XxkD3o8xElMxlmOqGeZtqpxP-kwsHSr8XLOzfGh3Tl2s2sXHB2rOvzx0wB6VDmE-qxOIPy7yPR_Mhj58aZmDY3Enk7f_2w3KN-pnS51Z7JgkQOPXqNLqsX2Jegr/s1600/0283+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglU8xiIbs09XxkD3o8xElMxlmOqGeZtqpxP-kwsHSr8XLOzfGh3Tl2s2sXHB2rOvzx0wB6VDmE-qxOIPy7yPR_Mhj58aZmDY3Enk7f_2w3KN-pnS51Z7JgkQOPXqNLqsX2Jegr/s640/0283+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr43ih4-V5HUEHgG0CNWeskE154RGqqHe0Rr1N3aCkzf6Wllj8cze-FvTi93qhwObDxlwItlLlcyAO7MAFa1Dgu2s78GrihsNhyphenhyphenIFtpkAKmiP5Z5pS-SBniomgE3oIGfqlVuRA/s1600/0284+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr43ih4-V5HUEHgG0CNWeskE154RGqqHe0Rr1N3aCkzf6Wllj8cze-FvTi93qhwObDxlwItlLlcyAO7MAFa1Dgu2s78GrihsNhyphenhyphenIFtpkAKmiP5Z5pS-SBniomgE3oIGfqlVuRA/s640/0284+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful courtyard at El Albergue in Ollantaytambo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ35u6wwJyrbwJZer0-gQn3Hbjg7o23i1ceGAFFoRa2HJKkl4TRV_z7wutLVB4yITXIFou9WMurCVdhLUr4qvNcYuSjXQUHwxx7OD5fuR66YvNlFzJ-gYheOdsTMndEcqHpix2/s1600/0268+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1318" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ35u6wwJyrbwJZer0-gQn3Hbjg7o23i1ceGAFFoRa2HJKkl4TRV_z7wutLVB4yITXIFou9WMurCVdhLUr4qvNcYuSjXQUHwxx7OD5fuR66YvNlFzJ-gYheOdsTMndEcqHpix2/s640/0268+peru+2017.jpg" width="526" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cobblestone streets, canals, and Incan walls in Ollantaytambo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYU_jJmEGpyJhJVDP2y2WvQJiRifkOMlpyBSa1tVhhVxId9tQ78kLt2auJolvc3LEj1WSjmWTLDPOKQmX67YCFfiLDwjtmJ_5nt1K1MAnfX8OLe0_Xb2Ho_0luQSKKwGXOGVM/s1600/0278+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1472" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYU_jJmEGpyJhJVDP2y2WvQJiRifkOMlpyBSa1tVhhVxId9tQ78kLt2auJolvc3LEj1WSjmWTLDPOKQmX67YCFfiLDwjtmJ_5nt1K1MAnfX8OLe0_Xb2Ho_0luQSKKwGXOGVM/s640/0278+peru+2017.jpg" width="588" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ilene feeding a stray dog in Ollantaytambo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimu2DtB3AI4QSlgZL2VX4R9_sL7f9ZXfyOAUEOa9tjodxoOeq-aRnv3_v0pozcBBXT42CfFDAsd_zH7hl40zgeVH2Xe6pL-iteMgRlAJiQDT5qkJXpD6LtAWdSOzwNU9-vz15o/s1600/0225+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimu2DtB3AI4QSlgZL2VX4R9_sL7f9ZXfyOAUEOa9tjodxoOeq-aRnv3_v0pozcBBXT42CfFDAsd_zH7hl40zgeVH2Xe6pL-iteMgRlAJiQDT5qkJXpD6LtAWdSOzwNU9-vz15o/s640/0225+peru+2017.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shopping in Ollantaytambo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlVLFnDlkB-yrO2F1_OwWOqkVQTnZs9eYpEo8jFTfu14tXFf1XibT93f9G0CMlfkxcCVj17NF4xHscDi1-0g-zWigli1CRmXI5XyjVt8yzYz5xNqHEdCbwjf23z5H6qKzmt0c/s1600/0230+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlVLFnDlkB-yrO2F1_OwWOqkVQTnZs9eYpEo8jFTfu14tXFf1XibT93f9G0CMlfkxcCVj17NF4xHscDi1-0g-zWigli1CRmXI5XyjVt8yzYz5xNqHEdCbwjf23z5H6qKzmt0c/s640/0230+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Markets are at the base of Incan ruins. Crazy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After Ollantaytambo we took a very long taxi ride (about two hours) back to Cusco where we spent three nights. We were only supposed to stay two nights but Peruvian Air cancelled our flight so our two nights turned into three. DO NOT FLY PERUVIAN AIR. No apologies, no compensation, just a shrug of the shoulders at our cancelled flight. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFg7L8ky_EoRJVlKYyTEvcDiTCwQDgD93xD0zQYvIRZoNGMW5ripIL0opRYaL8fEqV1qJP5e1yLDW-wYkn3xowETOR1v0hN5YzDARQgo4ztOr_kLmZ76lviSK4TN0VFynGggc/s1600/0397+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFg7L8ky_EoRJVlKYyTEvcDiTCwQDgD93xD0zQYvIRZoNGMW5ripIL0opRYaL8fEqV1qJP5e1yLDW-wYkn3xowETOR1v0hN5YzDARQgo4ztOr_kLmZ76lviSK4TN0VFynGggc/s640/0397+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">main square in Cusco, Peru</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The main square in Cusco had either a parade or a protest every single day we were there. We kept trying to find out what the celebrations or protests were for but to no avail. Loved all the colors.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijDKLu_w6jP8GYXSe3Acue7IVqoKlFmZ7hLq7XAId6Z9PXR3ZYi__fwBL51JFo27cmBvAuIqf-vpsKmCGNNtZ8O3QxvRfVtDVHR8CLLdBUjV0CEOi8TEaWiOmeXkTOWcewAUAC/s1600/0358+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEijDKLu_w6jP8GYXSe3Acue7IVqoKlFmZ7hLq7XAId6Z9PXR3ZYi__fwBL51JFo27cmBvAuIqf-vpsKmCGNNtZ8O3QxvRfVtDVHR8CLLdBUjV0CEOi8TEaWiOmeXkTOWcewAUAC/s640/0358+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUB963_pt3dLh0w4h33WSeD5dAYY9r_2VN9VgsqBigbAldyiejHT1Yo_vE__GxBdtsioh0moWGY1-4-k3G3eeH_8ihhBS-2jHSi7ETpWlDwAZk0YKWNoiwzupypMT02ge339t/s1600/0361+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEjOUB963_pt3dLh0w4h33WSeD5dAYY9r_2VN9VgsqBigbAldyiejHT1Yo_vE__GxBdtsioh0moWGY1-4-k3G3eeH_8ihhBS-2jHSi7ETpWlDwAZk0YKWNoiwzupypMT02ge339t/s640/0361+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZfblHQu6h0ZGFdyMWzQ5WGPv_8ehwMoYTYVofCjQ4Kb5mS9jMTIYGG-CIQKGx_t9X0oERWIHoydHv_i68YmpICUCN6WXJcs22e-DDzd0ntjPr2P8UavKg8qpnF7X7EDeRKlnt/s1600/0354+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1093" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZfblHQu6h0ZGFdyMWzQ5WGPv_8ehwMoYTYVofCjQ4Kb5mS9jMTIYGG-CIQKGx_t9X0oERWIHoydHv_i68YmpICUCN6WXJcs22e-DDzd0ntjPr2P8UavKg8qpnF7X7EDeRKlnt/s640/0354+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAEpaNBFJP5DCfhEQZCCo-qbKlzs2sAQwVhhZnCNCPpe2vtBJeih_uILM9PjRhShByLQXb91B4jfZAROP57D44wDKItv3rKKtAbGMzBBznRaVU716hvP4eqDs8Ylrod9ifRoI5/s1600/0351+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAEpaNBFJP5DCfhEQZCCo-qbKlzs2sAQwVhhZnCNCPpe2vtBJeih_uILM9PjRhShByLQXb91B4jfZAROP57D44wDKItv3rKKtAbGMzBBznRaVU716hvP4eqDs8Ylrod9ifRoI5/s640/0351+peru+2017.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Cusco has an elevation of 11,000 feet. The altitude never bothered us nor gave us headaches (well Hallie whos is 13 did claim the altitude made her sick) but my guess is because we already live at 4,800 feet that it wasn't an issue. However, the city is all stairs and that's when I really felt the altitude. Huffing and puffing everywhere.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdjEM2iO47KMe7oEvCoxsdAnuqPH1Wy9KpINbTL7VSIVz2x29yYTaGAN5NWEznFPEMioqngr5YjvH_1HJSJ6FnAbg1aGU3xwUbzsGZ9UIlWabuB6qemLv1SqBxiwcfep5nrnt/s1600/0337+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdjEM2iO47KMe7oEvCoxsdAnuqPH1Wy9KpINbTL7VSIVz2x29yYTaGAN5NWEznFPEMioqngr5YjvH_1HJSJ6FnAbg1aGU3xwUbzsGZ9UIlWabuB6qemLv1SqBxiwcfep5nrnt/s640/0337+peru+2017.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stairs, stairs, everywhere</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVcFD6rig83wvsECB9XZpe7q67xHeSfsvVGVa7ZPpLo54WBxgVdnQrYMpo6iDCeyYwlx3UReoFDeVPjyzannKFGOg0QdHyX174zWrIefeVcRFRjQGfaduCq2gNyWLzq_q9Tgp8/s1600/0330+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEhVcFD6rig83wvsECB9XZpe7q67xHeSfsvVGVa7ZPpLo54WBxgVdnQrYMpo6iDCeyYwlx3UReoFDeVPjyzannKFGOg0QdHyX174zWrIefeVcRFRjQGfaduCq2gNyWLzq_q9Tgp8/s640/0330+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizeHWqNw7zy6_63bXc-qGUt5y6ViUWqTMGEjoTMKEZZJIwED6K-ybISbftjzOXFEBQWBhyMilzb2sIPh_6HAheRrBXwrdq5AegQBKskiI-dCTvSXDZVZlnorkYBRBFaoNTF0ZC/s1600/0326+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizeHWqNw7zy6_63bXc-qGUt5y6ViUWqTMGEjoTMKEZZJIwED6K-ybISbftjzOXFEBQWBhyMilzb2sIPh_6HAheRrBXwrdq5AegQBKskiI-dCTvSXDZVZlnorkYBRBFaoNTF0ZC/s640/0326+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the famous 12-sided Incan stone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsif0X_s3dk34ZOhqVZAeXATqZAIEuHBrZGjaJpdstwcNt2hueSckVYnbb3rLDwh9QWDXXzx4hbQEQRyysrZxwSSmjOMdJxPKlsU2_5UWcGyMAcxukJebJmVHZYMu9lR9FWJg/s1600/0325+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsif0X_s3dk34ZOhqVZAeXATqZAIEuHBrZGjaJpdstwcNt2hueSckVYnbb3rLDwh9QWDXXzx4hbQEQRyysrZxwSSmjOMdJxPKlsU2_5UWcGyMAcxukJebJmVHZYMu9lR9FWJg/s640/0325+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">admiring Incan walls in Cusco</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEYj5FzOxXjjiw2vNe1zNAUC3Kv9TpjsCTlKn9OUs8jcgeQHzWkONj_HlmOJU-txkUQvklPBiSKCENxN23krQo9b39b5BxXpCNivTuoFQscNujej0RlbDqos_DhizsjJtqBPfj/s1600/0342+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEYj5FzOxXjjiw2vNe1zNAUC3Kv9TpjsCTlKn9OUs8jcgeQHzWkONj_HlmOJU-txkUQvklPBiSKCENxN23krQo9b39b5BxXpCNivTuoFQscNujej0RlbDqos_DhizsjJtqBPfj/s640/0342+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">always a filthy dog or two in Cusco</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4sGrP5s7LNujT6tYpq_jq3DiXcJQ24Ou4WsxNFV27H8P1bcwX4vm7ehZOb8D08mn1i0vjyLl7wKYDy4kl_apcAnoXs7Y87rlWms2dQ4c4cYuDW6FGpxyWeGgv4VLG1ZG6UOZl/s1600/0340+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4sGrP5s7LNujT6tYpq_jq3DiXcJQ24Ou4WsxNFV27H8P1bcwX4vm7ehZOb8D08mn1i0vjyLl7wKYDy4kl_apcAnoXs7Y87rlWms2dQ4c4cYuDW6FGpxyWeGgv4VLG1ZG6UOZl/s640/0340+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">walked to the top of Cusco!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwENfdgwKxYmeV0DyxzREiUv2IRbGF-l1TcYg3udwYCMF9EaBiiRPnedTrIkCaFKOENtppFjk9N1UCFJY0B2VqDTNcMnZ0bdBVmMdqDwkUcwQuiUuGpYuiBrxswiwP8A_FZDqV/s1600/0298+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1104" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwENfdgwKxYmeV0DyxzREiUv2IRbGF-l1TcYg3udwYCMF9EaBiiRPnedTrIkCaFKOENtppFjk9N1UCFJY0B2VqDTNcMnZ0bdBVmMdqDwkUcwQuiUuGpYuiBrxswiwP8A_FZDqV/s640/0298+peru+2017.jpg" width="440" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">couldn't get enough of Cusco alleyways with Incan walls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGUV2HEqFgPJns5bUqZbcsf-pUZftSIQsFm2LTBQSxz9OEftiO_J4PG7g3VRE52QHUPVtXkLgXL4upqR03FLJXwsbBb3gbwCJwV6ocZj-BIkWsK4ugAazDiQuEOlbt_OJ8Ydx/s1600/0377+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGUV2HEqFgPJns5bUqZbcsf-pUZftSIQsFm2LTBQSxz9OEftiO_J4PG7g3VRE52QHUPVtXkLgXL4upqR03FLJXwsbBb3gbwCJwV6ocZj-BIkWsK4ugAazDiQuEOlbt_OJ8Ydx/s640/0377+peru+2017.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hallie had altitude sickness and a bit of food poisoning. :(</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRwaH-7t-8lSLqBrxNEKw9DBiEmUzwZL_SK7owg7x5Ey1vSvmoyXwXZFjNL9k3GSxovW-uEpdgv5U2htuysJDasGtrkmZPtiCcze2A33zD7ruHvbDiyDph_ZyKebkA8NliRgV/s1600/0380+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRwaH-7t-8lSLqBrxNEKw9DBiEmUzwZL_SK7owg7x5Ey1vSvmoyXwXZFjNL9k3GSxovW-uEpdgv5U2htuysJDasGtrkmZPtiCcze2A33zD7ruHvbDiyDph_ZyKebkA8NliRgV/s640/0380+peru+2017.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fruit vendors in Cusco</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopiwaoK93trpe7CjAE7gA3mLVw-rotd5rXN2xloXMsmLgo1ue_ZfAFrDo6bX9G3JBnbD-datoiRMy4k1mHgkjDM_qx4mqgdSgMlQfPEt49dJYcpSGN9uv0nof27TX5JME0riz/s1600/0381+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1309" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopiwaoK93trpe7CjAE7gA3mLVw-rotd5rXN2xloXMsmLgo1ue_ZfAFrDo6bX9G3JBnbD-datoiRMy4k1mHgkjDM_qx4mqgdSgMlQfPEt49dJYcpSGN9uv0nof27TX5JME0riz/s640/0381+peru+2017.jpg" width="522" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">homeless dogs barking and fighting their for their turf.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://www.cuscovisitor.com/qoricancha.html" target="_blank"> Qorikancha </a>was an Incan temple, with the finest Incan architecture in existence, conquered by the Spaniards who simply built their own church on top of the ancient ruins. Take that Incan empire!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo_1QxbmW2CSwckmdODdBn-mQ0CRpMgy_O4rncL_wrSppZb8zyDXagWQmTTwTzfcFCJO5b-Uo1xuf__PENK2-cU8_FWIoQo_fwv_C3KESlwSA2UhYHs2nQGq3g8YgcvLUWBpa3/s1600/0389+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo_1QxbmW2CSwckmdODdBn-mQ0CRpMgy_O4rncL_wrSppZb8zyDXagWQmTTwTzfcFCJO5b-Uo1xuf__PENK2-cU8_FWIoQo_fwv_C3KESlwSA2UhYHs2nQGq3g8YgcvLUWBpa3/s640/0389+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Qorikancha museum was amazing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2TPLj2qTCXDXQTdOmMSf9vSHXa5U4-FBHWE1t1vsOoYTQIKFraP20OgEK00eqGXtAd1_iS04luXb8mzljA59JH5gHiR_f3aM3-aAfRUeU1bDNzM9EIVRZXrd5S8MeqcRUnWr3/s1600/0391+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1165" data-original-width="1600" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2TPLj2qTCXDXQTdOmMSf9vSHXa5U4-FBHWE1t1vsOoYTQIKFraP20OgEK00eqGXtAd1_iS04luXb8mzljA59JH5gHiR_f3aM3-aAfRUeU1bDNzM9EIVRZXrd5S8MeqcRUnWr3/s640/0391+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">vendors outside of Qorikancha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXIS98Lg4zYQrs6mYcggtNWg_1ZLJWWVFIC8IjyZSDKzS0tOaMYl5xs3Fm-y5C3HwfwlwVrog8XWyXEj0jLCDxuGP2K2cxClOd3nRsarHYbR1Tbk2PiK20mAboS9R2uywxol7/s1600/0312+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="956" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXIS98Lg4zYQrs6mYcggtNWg_1ZLJWWVFIC8IjyZSDKzS0tOaMYl5xs3Fm-y5C3HwfwlwVrog8XWyXEj0jLCDxuGP2K2cxClOd3nRsarHYbR1Tbk2PiK20mAboS9R2uywxol7/s640/0312+peru+2017.jpg" width="382" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbacSHlJUv4v0nDmEtqZdPWE7iNXPKGJi-UUi6D7O2rYTyvt55CKlHI_d8yfHyQQb2c2VZTttY2r7jt8a0iRrxtaKpSzLGHXzUe0QHrCL7fsQlF5Shh27lvmLmFoKQtsbcpf5A/s1600/0316+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbacSHlJUv4v0nDmEtqZdPWE7iNXPKGJi-UUi6D7O2rYTyvt55CKlHI_d8yfHyQQb2c2VZTttY2r7jt8a0iRrxtaKpSzLGHXzUe0QHrCL7fsQlF5Shh27lvmLmFoKQtsbcpf5A/s640/0316+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">courtyard of hotel in Cusco, the Llipimpac</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FZ5vvpuV4DJQ3NURUDihfg6y-paLIN00I625o_k_y8Hr0vgRUOCRG0Z6_i5T9L_lB6-3_fQNt82GV0f2YSQv82xcqBkqxze9mhQr5hpjLmw8ovgzawO9pyFEBXNif-OFz7nO/s1600/0317+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FZ5vvpuV4DJQ3NURUDihfg6y-paLIN00I625o_k_y8Hr0vgRUOCRG0Z6_i5T9L_lB6-3_fQNt82GV0f2YSQv82xcqBkqxze9mhQr5hpjLmw8ovgzawO9pyFEBXNif-OFz7nO/s640/0317+peru+2017.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
I learned the hard way that quaint Spanish-style hotels may be beautiful but they are not even heated. We froze. It is in winter in July and I didn't bother to ask if there was heating when I booked all of our hotel stays. The last night we stayed in Cusco, due to our cancelled flight, we went to the <a href="http://hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/peru/hilton-garden-inn-cusco-CUZGIGI/index.html" target="_blank">Hilton Garden Inn</a> and cranked the heat. God bless American hotels and their warmth!<br />
<br />
Finally we made it back to Lima for just one more night. We stayed at the Hilton Miraflores again which is kind of far from downtown but there really aren't any hotels downtown. So we had to take a Uber each time we went downtown. We did a few more tours downtown our last day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlx1fBYolM-5iUbHj1hL7IoI8FHGTuyqe7gnNQzh-8_UNm2eMPxvkTZ9rVzVjSUXdA21sqZi9O7Sger7-bZHJoNidCt14f_6dDQsVqD3vcCXRdjVI9gBbpcqjGcpKaKcaO77wd/s1600/0413+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEjlx1fBYolM-5iUbHj1hL7IoI8FHGTuyqe7gnNQzh-8_UNm2eMPxvkTZ9rVzVjSUXdA21sqZi9O7Sger7-bZHJoNidCt14f_6dDQsVqD3vcCXRdjVI9gBbpcqjGcpKaKcaO77wd/s640/0413+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcS2bfJCl7POKBEv365fOHJ05iwhFUtReqymdrG2i7nOqrAcUrq1mK-gRTPUwZ4jQ7BgW-A8HTOQ469ouyW2qg30E9iKQHregt8XH-SdzT3AeRADb9hVbj9j5WJKQhAekwJyiF/s1600/0414+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEhcS2bfJCl7POKBEv365fOHJ05iwhFUtReqymdrG2i7nOqrAcUrq1mK-gRTPUwZ4jQ7BgW-A8HTOQ469ouyW2qg30E9iKQHregt8XH-SdzT3AeRADb9hVbj9j5WJKQhAekwJyiF/s640/0414+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrIir5VGfocLT6jIZqjhwGEKZ02vIIXPXhqnzFV3A3OOrLtsAD27czlWKBKOJph9rI8Zo5HwcHTOcQMHN2lIUnqSt18OWXncb_RlaQBLfqkd8TX7wWACiayoJQW4BnF0E6cCam/s1600/0415+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEhrIir5VGfocLT6jIZqjhwGEKZ02vIIXPXhqnzFV3A3OOrLtsAD27czlWKBKOJph9rI8Zo5HwcHTOcQMHN2lIUnqSt18OWXncb_RlaQBLfqkd8TX7wWACiayoJQW4BnF0E6cCam/s640/0415+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQ04Rlm4txrpWFuYZh71QFEi5y2RCd9DYao-3hxCtV7qMxp3byiPD_IwrXzXgO4Dcg9CQBwhnt4tFU2myLGpyCMwtFguMDnPsxD8k-8w-wWgdu0wL7fFfUs9WK0B3lD6SfJwc/s1600/0423+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1165" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQ04Rlm4txrpWFuYZh71QFEi5y2RCd9DYao-3hxCtV7qMxp3byiPD_IwrXzXgO4Dcg9CQBwhnt4tFU2myLGpyCMwtFguMDnPsxD8k-8w-wWgdu0wL7fFfUs9WK0B3lD6SfJwc/s640/0423+peru+2017.jpg" width="466" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peruvian tabloids, downtown Lima</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
The girls wanted to go to the <a href="http://www.visitecuadorandsouthamerica.com/impressive-magic-water-show-in-lima-peru/" target="_blank">Magic Water Circuit</a> water fountain park on our last night. After a scary walk at rush hour through scary parts of Lima (where a concerned citizen told me to put my camera away) we made it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9FCJTkVXpL7hc8mDBE2QL9yQxpkAuIEHaCghyoTGUN-KPZO-AOsZYlEpILxTk7MyZW9JiuUlSGmRZEBp48pJ4Zt9a900RwXWuLsVsevs53QPc-kZ5OOx2cVZ1Kmb9WaeXWUM/s1600/0433+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9FCJTkVXpL7hc8mDBE2QL9yQxpkAuIEHaCghyoTGUN-KPZO-AOsZYlEpILxTk7MyZW9JiuUlSGmRZEBp48pJ4Zt9a900RwXWuLsVsevs53QPc-kZ5OOx2cVZ1Kmb9WaeXWUM/s640/0433+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ilene admiring the fountains.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP97dxPcVG9U-V3fRBvP1QYjAiF8doYgsmwEJeKdbdgJtaYtxN3LrvSnbDUHunEwisT-Xu0w6ovLXeAI1ftCotqbWlfRNpLH0UW6VPFePOG9frQ6AcnLPxQK-KUpwdDHQNnMCI/s1600/0440+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEgP97dxPcVG9U-V3fRBvP1QYjAiF8doYgsmwEJeKdbdgJtaYtxN3LrvSnbDUHunEwisT-Xu0w6ovLXeAI1ftCotqbWlfRNpLH0UW6VPFePOG9frQ6AcnLPxQK-KUpwdDHQNnMCI/s640/0440+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbcy6UkpeOxlX8XGqPQJDAp5hJ98Bcqr9-qp3WEYITHDG_i1NBOMEh6qhFHF5C7qQn2r_OxgipM2BGqX1UY55eX-Sj-lZh_7N1KcuAar9SxsneiQ_7_wBNTuWYsT8Aaz5eg4pN/s1600/0451+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbcy6UkpeOxlX8XGqPQJDAp5hJ98Bcqr9-qp3WEYITHDG_i1NBOMEh6qhFHF5C7qQn2r_OxgipM2BGqX1UY55eX-Sj-lZh_7N1KcuAar9SxsneiQ_7_wBNTuWYsT8Aaz5eg4pN/s640/0451+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's winter but that didn't stop these kids from getting wet!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccq3szfc-f7QKrIcyxHIimolQ4zyDOakXaKcj0QSdZ9Xf8F-UtvgQpx77slGgg9D9ynMTChtp_5Rqe8qA34s84nWIdpCRQ8TG9kXZ6XDY67tCl03Qe8JC9Wp3ph6YG1NP3ttV/s1600/0461+peru+2017.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/AVvXsEgccq3szfc-f7QKrIcyxHIimolQ4zyDOakXaKcj0QSdZ9Xf8F-UtvgQpx77slGgg9D9ynMTChtp_5Rqe8qA34s84nWIdpCRQ8TG9kXZ6XDY67tCl03Qe8JC9Wp3ph6YG1NP3ttV/s640/0461+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo3Ckzc9IVhVvb8S6SIL5onD5HvAE4wARptiAycrcIbN3GRmbmFUxU-46bW9RwcFvTsljWNVK46Biga8iEVcTGrlhRaIbm3QlOD-RhvPbHfMcrRF1Gf_o-Yu2lmon1z6ScKozc/s1600/0463+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo3Ckzc9IVhVvb8S6SIL5onD5HvAE4wARptiAycrcIbN3GRmbmFUxU-46bW9RwcFvTsljWNVK46Biga8iEVcTGrlhRaIbm3QlOD-RhvPbHfMcrRF1Gf_o-Yu2lmon1z6ScKozc/s640/0463+peru+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silly Ilene and Hallie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a fabulous 10 days in Peru. Here's how we broke it down. Our first two nights were in Lima, 2 nights in Aguas Calientes, 1 night in Ollantaytambo, 3 nights Cusco, 1 more night in Lima. A fabulous 10 days in a fabulous country. I would go again in a heartbeat. And probably will because <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2016/07/my-son-missionary.html" target="_blank">Nathan who is still a missionary</a> sure missed out!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioWJkb77Yhbh1V9BXC5ldLSkyF9sh8r63D5uuIj8JwTYNTuLXwYod-fEa1_-xy6S6cPVQcR9B6VVLdEY6jVbzqbjujk_8Qfe0De7IYA4LeElPtPeQ2AS9buQYEwKcks39Ve3Rv/s1600/0064+peru+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1361" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioWJkb77Yhbh1V9BXC5ldLSkyF9sh8r63D5uuIj8JwTYNTuLXwYod-fEa1_-xy6S6cPVQcR9B6VVLdEY6jVbzqbjujk_8Qfe0De7IYA4LeElPtPeQ2AS9buQYEwKcks39Ve3Rv/s640/0064+peru+2017.jpg" width="544" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-32170031824765255292017-06-09T10:02:00.000-06:002017-06-09T10:02:31.127-06:00Another School Year GoneSomeone once told me that once your kids turn 12 everything time goes by like lightning. True. Ilene just finished her sophomore year, Hallie just finished her 7th grade year of junior high, and Nathan is just nearing one year as a missionary in the Dominican Republic.<br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ilene ran track again this year. That girl is a runner to be sure. Sometimes at her track meets I think about the hours spent waiting at her kindergarten bus stop and how she'd run from tree to tree and say "Time me Mom!". Ummm ok, ready, set go! Then I would count out loud and she'd be in heaven when I'd say, wow only 12 seconds to run to the tree and back!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNULbmRUW1MijakA3xwUeFvnMDpoI5ZjwN-jCKvt9IWLSc6iq16B-AB8IEpCcB3elG845bkUUOi4KEm0_-6iqoqwEgQfWqUpAptLJkoO39owDhTnao8o3xLffekIQ-q6MOUgO/s1600/9613+state+track+meet+byu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNULbmRUW1MijakA3xwUeFvnMDpoI5ZjwN-jCKvt9IWLSc6iq16B-AB8IEpCcB3elG845bkUUOi4KEm0_-6iqoqwEgQfWqUpAptLJkoO39owDhTnao8o3xLffekIQ-q6MOUgO/s640/9613+state+track+meet+byu.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Utah State Track meet at BYU</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6vHEo5kCjdBj3JniTirdUEdNkodQxowjrhIs_3YbG8_uC1Ve9mcsrVveAikHZwT87yb9XsKbcTQjOrVya2OC-gTlKqSaHDuxOGjJ98YeIeOod4T7kbPfYaDA5GMttcnuup4S/s1600/9635+state+track+meet+byu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1018" data-original-width="1600" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6vHEo5kCjdBj3JniTirdUEdNkodQxowjrhIs_3YbG8_uC1Ve9mcsrVveAikHZwT87yb9XsKbcTQjOrVya2OC-gTlKqSaHDuxOGjJ98YeIeOod4T7kbPfYaDA5GMttcnuup4S/s640/9635+state+track+meet+byu.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for her team's relay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1tiWg9EYEQfsTw3ufcTN1c__kFxZoVR2i77H6PI6HhxFm9zj6yUXcClefO84fZ3hYsiDkWJWGNmK3PdOYuibqwK4X4fqx5dmGSqGwMCKUfb_LnHiOHngq7-xQ0mylnuNy3Ezj/s1600/9643+state+track+meet+byu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1147" data-original-width="1600" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1tiWg9EYEQfsTw3ufcTN1c__kFxZoVR2i77H6PI6HhxFm9zj6yUXcClefO84fZ3hYsiDkWJWGNmK3PdOYuibqwK4X4fqx5dmGSqGwMCKUfb_LnHiOHngq7-xQ0mylnuNy3Ezj/s640/9643+state+track+meet+byu.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ilene waiting for the baton pass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Hallie had her fair share of fun as well this school year. She was in her school's musical plays, like Singing in the Rain.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLa-fF_pHjyuN8sNhbJ8VkUSpEfR_aFMbW731Li8BWwl2II5TDHhgcaPFBlYo8iD9JYamUlE1uYi7z165pncmn-UjFCVy39C9vY5uR87UYwEOD8ywAzFichPznvE8LPcCEiZjN/s1600/8572+singing+in+rain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="834" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLa-fF_pHjyuN8sNhbJ8VkUSpEfR_aFMbW731Li8BWwl2II5TDHhgcaPFBlYo8iD9JYamUlE1uYi7z165pncmn-UjFCVy39C9vY5uR87UYwEOD8ywAzFichPznvE8LPcCEiZjN/s640/8572+singing+in+rain.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2F5ENqImW4pvNr1p4Xld68cfn2CbB9VGD9Vp6RMffP7hIbWeLKZKL0vcB_S1JHAkTSlYJpRprl7veFQmvCHmKFtjCHbKh0QqbNP94hhhEt6cvSuWFwOW0Q7PpRH90Sdlsza2i/s1600/8656+singing+in+rain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1230" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2F5ENqImW4pvNr1p4Xld68cfn2CbB9VGD9Vp6RMffP7hIbWeLKZKL0vcB_S1JHAkTSlYJpRprl7veFQmvCHmKFtjCHbKh0QqbNP94hhhEt6cvSuWFwOW0Q7PpRH90Sdlsza2i/s640/8656+singing+in+rain.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And of course she had to play city league soccer again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfhzmD-tD-2VTe4bfYd9QLW9aYizx3dSAb_aXrhqggFgXhNGMDJ79rNd76fkijP6sy11QJyw4spbf3A7LJbm4JA7gHZpqzprq7Hj5_3wlVxKEgWF8M4uzCQJtvsC75HloUw6Y0/s1600/9038+hallie+soccer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1261" data-original-width="1600" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfhzmD-tD-2VTe4bfYd9QLW9aYizx3dSAb_aXrhqggFgXhNGMDJ79rNd76fkijP6sy11QJyw4spbf3A7LJbm4JA7gHZpqzprq7Hj5_3wlVxKEgWF8M4uzCQJtvsC75HloUw6Y0/s640/9038+hallie+soccer.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhom9EgaQOWn3H3Tkvx5Qfelp4_AeD9VSbHN37cAghcbMRuHSiCWblzN-D8DGMT6jDSTLmGJ_Z7aYmlYY7vjBilyMoByTMRCtwiHfkPfPX94gDYebhpndKyCqVQrppgIdDs8XOu/s1600/9402+windy+and+cold+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1009" data-original-width="1600" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhom9EgaQOWn3H3Tkvx5Qfelp4_AeD9VSbHN37cAghcbMRuHSiCWblzN-D8DGMT6jDSTLmGJ_Z7aYmlYY7vjBilyMoByTMRCtwiHfkPfPX94gDYebhpndKyCqVQrppgIdDs8XOu/s640/9402+windy+and+cold+day.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cold April night for a soccer game.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My beautiful girls, they're growing up so fast.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAA7ICR9boZxRxQBUKGasQ64Iw17Y9MtVjMXuWXv1Q2d9XU9G0ky1AxM_dLVqST9t15wrRVKZ0tYWoXWo_aYeORwHehGget35Bdk81X5xvqmSGO0S5KIOxBpHYNyoV-gbSq0gc/s1600/9236+timp+temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAA7ICR9boZxRxQBUKGasQ64Iw17Y9MtVjMXuWXv1Q2d9XU9G0ky1AxM_dLVqST9t15wrRVKZ0tYWoXWo_aYeORwHehGget35Bdk81X5xvqmSGO0S5KIOxBpHYNyoV-gbSq0gc/s640/9236+timp+temple.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April 2017, Mt. Timpanogos temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9bJ7sHSAaT9Lct7AyGDpqWomD32hz5HM8B_KsBMTXZeK1ZTfCKdFL_lLbeal3Rx3c8qCIp9nCRNeX0rzQ9LvTwMJYSiVNwPqunF_UqYhKGyw5eaQJnoRLuYmouqey9eAOvO1/s1600/9198+timp+temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1150" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9bJ7sHSAaT9Lct7AyGDpqWomD32hz5HM8B_KsBMTXZeK1ZTfCKdFL_lLbeal3Rx3c8qCIp9nCRNeX0rzQ9LvTwMJYSiVNwPqunF_UqYhKGyw5eaQJnoRLuYmouqey9eAOvO1/s640/9198+timp+temple.jpg" width="458" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#babiesdontkeep</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And their mom is looking older as well.....but happy to see them grow and learn.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcW1yofHNCYmfgldnP4A04ckaLKc8070on1adc6456m37fhwvEOQBc6yIKxR1TGfoMal9vdncebYappfWng0zvxdC8iqjGJaFgIIp1kKB216zJKLaQtT1BzwfdQjorHA-fyQf/s1600/9215+timp+temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1119" data-original-width="1600" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcW1yofHNCYmfgldnP4A04ckaLKc8070on1adc6456m37fhwvEOQBc6yIKxR1TGfoMal9vdncebYappfWng0zvxdC8iqjGJaFgIIp1kKB216zJKLaQtT1BzwfdQjorHA-fyQf/s640/9215+timp+temple.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-39204476128645724052017-06-08T09:05:00.000-06:002017-06-09T09:37:44.778-06:00Grief was my Teacher<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="5129 puerto rico" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-49" height="406" src="https://treesgrowslowly.files.wordpress.com/2017/05/5129-puerto-rico.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
I can remember the exact day my life bottomed out, the day I knew I would be a different person forever. June 17, 2014. It doesn't really matter what happened, maybe another day I'll share the details. Trauma is weird that way. You have to talk about it to heal from it, but not necessarily on the internet. ;)<br />
<br />
I wandered a cemetery in Puerto Rico last summer. The kids were enamored with an old open grave, ooooo-ing at what could be the story behind it. 'I think I see bones! I think I see a ghost!' I laughed at their conversations. Once they had seen everything they had wanted to see, they wandered away and explored something else. But I found myself lingering, especially by this statue of a woman, hunched in grief, clutching a wreath; mourning a loss almost impossible to bear.<br />
<br />
I knew how she felt.<br />
<br />
I raised my camera and took several shots. It was hot and humid from a rainstorm moments earlier. My Tamron lens kept fogging up. We had to catch a plane home soon but for that moment everything was quiet. Just me and my camera. The cemetery was empty and my thoughts were full. I found another statue. A woman, head bowed in prayer, clutching her rosary in clasped hands. Age weighing heavily in the statue's face, weathered stains adding to her mournful look.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="5121 puerto rico.jpg" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-83" height="427" src="https://treesgrowslowly.files.wordpress.com/2017/05/5121-puerto-rico.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Grief has exposed me to another dimension I didn't really know existed. Or rather it removed the blinders so I could finally turn my head and see it on my left and on my right. Grief over lost dreams. Grief over lost trust. Grief over lost certainty. Grief over loss of faith. Grief over what was hidden in plain sight. Grief over new realities. Grief over the past. Grief over the present. Grief at what might be in the future. I feel odd at remembering my life before--how invisible grief was to me.<br />
<br />
I remember a few months after everything changed for me being in the dentist's office. He told me I might need a root canal if the antibiotic he was prescribing me didn't work. I have always been deathly afraid of oral surgery, maybe because I've never had it so the unknown frightened me more than it should. But in that moment I wasn't afraid anymore. I knew what real pain was; this oral surgery would be nothing in comparison. I was stronger now, less afraid. I remember being surprised at my calmness. Grief had been my teacher. It taught me to not be afraid.<br />
<br />
I would never go looking for grief. I'm not a masochist. But when it became my constant companion I learned to eventually welcome it. To sit with it. To stop shoving it away and pretending everything was okay. It's okay to not be okay. Grief wouldn't be my<em> constant</em> companion but she was a <em>long time</em> companion. She was the teacher I never wanted and never knew I needed.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-53030555561530852802017-03-28T12:05:00.002-06:002017-05-18T10:53:07.007-06:00Please, No More Talk of Modesty<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; white-space: pre-wrap;">A year ago I sat in a laundromat in Antwerp, Belgium. Paul and I were trying to figure out the euro washing machines (nevermind that Paul speaks Dutch), but I’m a lazy person at heart so rather than try even 10 more seconds for him to figure it out, I asked the Hasidic Jewish woman next to me to just tell us what to do. She was friendly and talkative. I’m friendly and talkative too and we ended up speaking about way more than laundry. She told me about her recent wedding, how her amazingly-tall husband saved her from a life of secular Judaism (born again Jew?) and how she had always suffered from seizures until she went to Jerusalem and prayed at the wall. Now they were completely gone. She sadly told me about her strained relationship with her mother now that she was orthodox. She even showed me videos of her friends’ Jewish weddings, explaining why everything was done the way it was. </span></div><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img alt="IMG_1706.JPG" height="640" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QFFXMqNDhGdPQVcC3ims-9RWBAlqoOCMD0hSRxh3e1eIYr1bIbsxuaXvUuJnCiX9xdlNkPrQr_M6u5qS6QkIJPrHeJtUUAR1Zv-StXz0mfpm8Ey9TpYbUEyX96-1BpWIOqVmUrSE" style="border: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="479" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">Antwerp, Belgium, waiting for laundry</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b> </span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">She told me about her conversion with such zeal. I was mesmerized. She used to show her hair, whereas now she kept it covered; she used to wear pants, whereas now she wore long skirts to her ankles and sleeves down to her wrists. She once dressed like I was dressed right then--jeans, sneakers, and ponytail hair. The disparity in our clothing was very obvious, so I tried to speak to our commonalities. I told her that I too was a very religious woman. Had she heard of the Mormons? She never had. And she was not accepting the claim that we were both religious women of God. She kept protesting, in her thick French accent, waving her arms, that </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">she</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> was a very religious woman. I was not. This jeans-wearing woman did not make headway with her on that front.</span></span></div><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img alt="091 belgium antwerp.jpg" height="411" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/fITYjIyGnG3_UtIg_ZGjlu-FBL_9K3zHmIsFUyPI1w5xszdXEMU0S8TQ0-7EAOvzeCr3aQgmrqd2HCz8nbev-y0V5v--A8LliEXKqzhilBVI4YqxmmYKCCOdAd7PneLcr8TrgnFW" style="border: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="624" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">Jewish quarter in Antwerp, Belgium</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And you know what? It felt good. It felt so good, for the first time in well, forever, to be the Gentile Heathen. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Moi</i></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a Mormon woman who lives in Provo, which is like 90% Mormon and super conservative, to now be in the Jewish quarter of Antwerp, where I was now the minority. Maybe I’ve read one too many Chaim Potok novels but I’m pretty sure that classifies me as </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">goyim</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. By the standards of this lovely Belgian, 23-year-old-newlywed woman, this 42-year-old-middle-aged woman was not dressed very “modestly”. The tables had turned. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>(An aside: this has to be the best conversation I've ever had while travelling, even better than talking to Sal in the fabric district in New York who tried to sell me some voile to make a top even though I said voile is sheer and all I do is push kids in strollers so where would I wear such a top, only to have him reply in what I swear was his best Andrew Dice Clay impersonation he reserved for tourists, 'hey lady it's how ya feel!')</i></span></span></div><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b> </span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fast forward a year later. My 16-yr old daughter Ilene came home from church the other day a bit confused about what she heard about modesty in Relief Society. (The 16-17-yr old girls go to class with the women once a month.) </span></div><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b> </span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="Princess_Bride_That_Word.jpg" height="284" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BPsmp3u4zrTDkTWbQ6ewU4dUrQMRgw_fYQIsDQb1GBcPQMg57-i_3sx0UMmsxbQ8KH0rxfy6k_o08I1teTsAYb2Gd_lUBw0lK3nCpB49KUOjoQX0vbBAA5HsNKWESQeXcGAsoS5K" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="506" /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Modesty. Oh please, here we go again. If I never hear that word again used in context of how covered up a woman is it will be too soon. In the words of Ignayo Montoya, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You keep using that word, I don’t think it means what you think it means.”</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I don't think us Mormons have a clue as to what 'modest' mean</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">s.</span></span></div><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b> </span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ilene’s bottom line question was, “Mom what is the big deal with wearing a tank top?!” In short I said, “It is no big deal.” I reminded her of conversations we've had before-- that different articles of clothing are appropriate for different occasions. I don’t use the word </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">modest</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> to describe clothing, I use the word </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">appropriate</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. We talk about this a lot. Ultimately she is in charge of her clothing. More importantly, never judge and <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2015/03/teaching-children-about-objectification.html" target="_blank">objectify others</a> based on their clothing either. The measuring stick I use to gauge my clothing choices is in no way a stick I use to beat others with. </span></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img alt="4403 puerto rico 2016.jpg" height="416" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/O7vLagJZ6sdzeFQenJOtK9WLNvm3UL-1-mBh_qsqCYt_131wxJ3IMGGfTiWi9zI9jD489oAJRKJ95MaOA8GX_XmiPf3EZ_SGHkoQGCDtDhND3AV_7jP8s34_lqqkImYfzo4gwh-1" style="border: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="624" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">Ilene in Puerto Rico. Always curious, even about coconuts and driftwood</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My old-lady swimsuit is pretty much a tank top and shorts and is very modest by Mormon standards. But what if I show up to church wearing that same swimsuit? On the beach I was way </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">too</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> covered up by most standards, and in church I’d be lookin’ quite out of place and very immodest. </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img alt="D7K_2714.jpg" height="413" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/FHNcYGzBOyOg3CPvMgXHDP_3JQLinTb4F5PjLJamZHlnYxx0ufeVALbv4PIiAA72WKyXoJM9_1BAdXSx0V3CYdcES8UJxpi_4uFVfGjxPJPU0L4QjCHAqtNepL60YZ-0uy3WDY5s" style="border: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="624" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">Paul and me, Big Island of Hawaii, 2013</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b> </span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My covered-up swimsuit at church is “immodest”, my jeans and sneakers were “immodest” to that Jewish woman in the laundry mat in Antwerp, and to be honest would also be 100 years ago walking in downtown Provo, among my own people. I can see the glaring stares now from those Mormon Pioneers, “That woman is wearing pants! You can see the shape of her legs!” So if modesty changes for fashion, time, and occasion, then clearly it is not the correct word to use in describing hemlines and visible shoulders. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don’t even remember having ‘modesty’ lessons growing up. I remember we all wore tank tops and short-shorts at church, school, or wherever. Just use common sense, sheesh! There were no <a href="http://media.ldscdn.org/pdf/lds-magazines/friend-june-2011/2011-06-19-hannahs-new-dress-eng.pdf" target="_blank">arbitrary made up rules about covering your shoulders</a> or wearing shorts to your knees. My mother-in-law even told me all the women <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/byumagazine/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10153316841575634" target="_blank">wore sleeveless dresses to BYU dances in the 1960s</a>. Not strapless, or spaghetti straps, just sleeveless. That would never be allowed now. When did this orthodox-ness seep into my own religion? <a href="http://religionnews.com/2014/06/05/mormon-shoulder-war-whats-stake/" target="_blank">What happened between the 1980s, when I grew up, and now when I’m raising teens?</a> And why? Are my daughters holier, more pious than I was at their age if they choose to be more covered up than I ever was in 1990? Will they be more prepared to go to the temple than I was? Do they have greater access to God? No way Jose.</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkdEUbRzH49PvsPLOhidYJ4CvNz5yaqMgKAx-jnZhirr6kXJPEOqkhB68qzC1vd4B8Ia0qnnsfeRoP0KvIa92cj_ywMJNM5Kfe1UStJAhSoueLEGU8K3aNPOdHKfKA86BlfLG_/s1600/D7K_8058-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkdEUbRzH49PvsPLOhidYJ4CvNz5yaqMgKAx-jnZhirr6kXJPEOqkhB68qzC1vd4B8Ia0qnnsfeRoP0KvIa92cj_ywMJNM5Kfe1UStJAhSoueLEGU8K3aNPOdHKfKA86BlfLG_/s640/D7K_8058-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem, Israel</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">A few years ago a new rule came about in our stake--no more shorts at activities. I was Young Women president at the time and I told my young women, ‘Look you don’t have to like this rule, I don’t get it, but as a leader I do have to keep this rule. You can think what you want, but for now, let’s play along.’ I think that rule eventually faded away because I send my girls to church Wednesday nights with shorts and there’s never been a problem.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img alt="cynthia in moutains 1984ish.jpg" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/0gQ5o2x3v4_eqvDrQXnKX5AaMeBIhjS_UeXFKaWufAOOaZYkKl6SLKJO86zz8tDQsLhrwWVt_tRQ2Les4H9GRPFTX4uRedW4tL_wJuUtTHZTbNvB5aFn2XVufUXh8lZZ59kk1tHd" style="border: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; transform: rotate(0rad);" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">Me, 1984 in San Bernardino mountains, California, clearly wearing short shorts.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #444444; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So what <i>does</i> modest mean in my world today? I own a modest home. Or is it? Maybe in Utah County it is considered modest compared to the $700,000-dollar-5,000-square-foot homes going up just two miles away from me. But take my home and put it near my son in the Dominican Republic--who hasn’t had a hot shower in 9-months--or my mom’s childhood home in Mexico--and my home is downright ostentatious. Embarrassing actually for me to live like this when my son doesn’t even have drinkable water or a hot shower. (And for him it’s temporary.) What a privileged life I lead. There isn’t anything </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">modest </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">about my privileged American life. And that's what I told my daughter. That modesty is subjective, in houses and clothes. New subject please.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />
</span></span></b> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirCSuBIW9fqPhCp3qnfc9tDbcd6TMsLEeN7Y01TuTe9g8D-cKlDJABrtG25qYl-Z6V_G3ZFakWDFmV-Uc8lP7gczdj0OxRhmMcbBvaxwBvv4PcwXS5gLt6z6qYSmHto2ZqXVx6/s1600/2874+spring+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirCSuBIW9fqPhCp3qnfc9tDbcd6TMsLEeN7Y01TuTe9g8D-cKlDJABrtG25qYl-Z6V_G3ZFakWDFmV-Uc8lP7gczdj0OxRhmMcbBvaxwBvv4PcwXS5gLt6z6qYSmHto2ZqXVx6/s640/2874+spring+flowers.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">My own home sweet home</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</b> </span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #444444;"><br />
</span></div><br />
Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-29063087142881158222016-12-17T16:21:00.001-07:002016-12-17T19:04:49.401-07:00Pork Tamales in Red Chile Sauce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
My mom is the greatest tamale maker. Ever. She taught me to make them when I was a teenager and together with my siblings, we would help her make them to sell as fundraisers for our various church youth camps every summer. And we'd eat them too. I don't know where my mother got her amazing heart because I would not do this for my kids. I'd tell them to go babysit and pull weeds. Thankfully, I learned a valuable skill that makes my tummy happy year after year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIgU2XMPSChHPpdN1m3g-Hj_wdtZyn5aOuEODt_z7Bu8YiwY1Pj9myK82EuWD3sPpXgNwo1HtYzbRgeBJc-A_aM1LKbXdc2kYTmUBmzrxChV1n8_Uc6FmL89Xe0BGAZDwyfww/s1600/IMG_3643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIgU2XMPSChHPpdN1m3g-Hj_wdtZyn5aOuEODt_z7Bu8YiwY1Pj9myK82EuWD3sPpXgNwo1HtYzbRgeBJc-A_aM1LKbXdc2kYTmUBmzrxChV1n8_Uc6FmL89Xe0BGAZDwyfww/s640/IMG_3643.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8af09mnz2ih1VZV3ISEnmWK7jGqZ8p7PCnZrnvorbJ8NACC365McYam3lj7Ve9B_7OLzH5gcMsRAcqzBe76yrG3-V5QrPgdtlrtvdej89zaZbSeMllvbAtV_0AEb0pYdbGusF/s1600/7833+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8af09mnz2ih1VZV3ISEnmWK7jGqZ8p7PCnZrnvorbJ8NACC365McYam3lj7Ve9B_7OLzH5gcMsRAcqzBe76yrG3-V5QrPgdtlrtvdej89zaZbSeMllvbAtV_0AEb0pYdbGusF/s640/7833+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SXZ5hgDFTMx1l5P29CiRdmQcYS8ngkWof_YJWNDCEuuSxOAfuNvM8JxE0zmyXnPsM6nFSmcDGSHw1jQOBwXP0GopVejnYy9biL5UMqjoiXd9p2dCkvsRPgMcLv72olelwPOM/s1600/making+tamales+%25288%2529+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="539" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SXZ5hgDFTMx1l5P29CiRdmQcYS8ngkWof_YJWNDCEuuSxOAfuNvM8JxE0zmyXnPsM6nFSmcDGSHw1jQOBwXP0GopVejnYy9biL5UMqjoiXd9p2dCkvsRPgMcLv72olelwPOM/s640/making+tamales+%25288%2529+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flashback to June 2011: Ilene, my Mom (Tina), and Me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpLI66mcfF_gnfSYrZH3vloB56X-jSlNKLTtOk5GnkbvC0gWY3kif65yk9eLP_7Z8H3aEjzXWoaGQzEyykGuXnLFSFm8zfKGTPLiUCmyvV6a14u0QHjDdvDEHO5woHmSr_hsb/s1600/making+tamales+%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpLI66mcfF_gnfSYrZH3vloB56X-jSlNKLTtOk5GnkbvC0gWY3kif65yk9eLP_7Z8H3aEjzXWoaGQzEyykGuXnLFSFm8zfKGTPLiUCmyvV6a14u0QHjDdvDEHO5woHmSr_hsb/s640/making+tamales+%252816%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 2011: Teaching Ilene to make tamales</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcXE8NjP3Jxow8sjx_t7eWhfxJG39K4sxKD7ghZLlKrWmJUrss7wYaqdrsoM0VShvEowKjYdowRVXENPoyMXgJBAAbqZkIcMYvDifjYeMtVFYOQH1qYHB_uJyfDVsbi8cbfu9j/s1600/making+tamales+%252817%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcXE8NjP3Jxow8sjx_t7eWhfxJG39K4sxKD7ghZLlKrWmJUrss7wYaqdrsoM0VShvEowKjYdowRVXENPoyMXgJBAAbqZkIcMYvDifjYeMtVFYOQH1qYHB_uJyfDVsbi8cbfu9j/s640/making+tamales+%252817%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 2011: My amazing mom Tina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To make tamales you need three different components: the sauce, the masa (corn dough), and the meat. My mom often makes the sauce one day, the pork carnitas another day, and assembles them all in one day. I did everything in one day. I started at 8am and finished by 3pm. I did this alone but having a helper will mean you can make more or be done faster. I wasn't in the kitchen the entire time, but I did need to be at home an entire day, no running around on this day. You can easily double this recipe but for my small family this was enough for dinner, leftovers, and plenty to freeze for 3 more dinners.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJFSVIkqfPI88oBot5ZDV5-H-xl40DV9RSAleMUAvDpaMTXTYP3Bq-rted5VNnIZ3M8JjTdhrItqUfD9wbWbwGJ6xpRQBF1rtTT28mR8TWWo7O2N_OwtXt7vUZ5CTRBJiSe4-I/s1600/7835+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJFSVIkqfPI88oBot5ZDV5-H-xl40DV9RSAleMUAvDpaMTXTYP3Bq-rted5VNnIZ3M8JjTdhrItqUfD9wbWbwGJ6xpRQBF1rtTT28mR8TWWo7O2N_OwtXt7vUZ5CTRBJiSe4-I/s640/7835+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This recipe will yield approximately 4-5 dozen tamales depending on how big you make them. <br />
<br />
<u><b>Red Chile Sauce </b></u><br />
<i>Makes 7 cups. Use this for tamales and especially as an enchilada sauce. Easily doubles; freezes well.</i><br />
California chiles, dried, 6 ounce package (photo below)<br />
1 large onion, chopped<br />
2 teaspoons cumin<br />
1 teaspoon oregano<br />
4 garlic cloves<br />
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce<br />
1 quart of chicken broth, pork broth, and/or water<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-5ff6fb70-0e94-1dcd-94cf-9114acb3ce3f"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Boil the pork first (see below recipe) so that you can use the leftover broth in this recipe.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Using kitchen scissors, cut off the stems of the chile pods, split down the middle with your fingers, rinse off seeds and pull off the stringy veins. You don't have to pull of all the stringy veins, just do your best as that's where all the heat is located. If your hands are sensitive, wear gloves. I don't. But I did sneeze and cough a little from the peppery 'fumes'. Saute one onion in oil with cumin and oregano about 5 minutes, then add garlic cloves, the cleaned chiles, tomato sauce, then enough pork broth or chicken broth to cover by an inch. (I added all the pork broth leftover from boiling the pork, and still I needed to add a little more water to cover by about an inch.) Bring to a boil then lower to a simmer for 30 minutes. Let it cool for 30-45 minutes then puree in blender in 2-3 batches until smooth. Add salt to taste.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPXfjATEKYmDEeUX6-hezawUekGGXG-b0Fil9LNWy0fWsUkoT3C5vhjUmb4eg8L5L4LUSyTu-rKmyTFCPsvdiyfYcb9Mpdb9EC0u8q6GLwaKCckjMauo7KAQFgAkkCYv59jj0/s1600/7806+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPXfjATEKYmDEeUX6-hezawUekGGXG-b0Fil9LNWy0fWsUkoT3C5vhjUmb4eg8L5L4LUSyTu-rKmyTFCPsvdiyfYcb9Mpdb9EC0u8q6GLwaKCckjMauo7KAQFgAkkCYv59jj0/s640/7806+tamales.jpg" width="580" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">California chiles are not very spicy. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iZx8_Co5uyMS0T4u4YVVRCnSL2qIetTt1nVRW79-aFwctGWSMHGisM16PqgBMAACUcsHC30wuhFQ1mEz7AEMXuQzbMnI1z6_4HsKLcSXYzphSwr03B-qfZPT8Sw-TCC7x7kL/s1600/IMG_3641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iZx8_Co5uyMS0T4u4YVVRCnSL2qIetTt1nVRW79-aFwctGWSMHGisM16PqgBMAACUcsHC30wuhFQ1mEz7AEMXuQzbMnI1z6_4HsKLcSXYzphSwr03B-qfZPT8Sw-TCC7x7kL/s640/IMG_3641.JPG" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQ1edUGRZzJ4af84cF9DFKUMS86jqHxnqKTSzHerdO3fHBiCwdG2PfI8Zn9zSaAsp-UKFT0G6jqtLz3p-LF0SZ7OqzufqIQBXcDg-YSmw4VRfhHNVk0SvgrpkLgJTIg4A67nj/s1600/7808+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQ1edUGRZzJ4af84cF9DFKUMS86jqHxnqKTSzHerdO3fHBiCwdG2PfI8Zn9zSaAsp-UKFT0G6jqtLz3p-LF0SZ7OqzufqIQBXcDg-YSmw4VRfhHNVk0SvgrpkLgJTIg4A67nj/s640/7808+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaned chiles: 'Fresh' dried chiles should feel malleable like fruit leather, not dry and crumbly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGlRVTBMxhRF1kw8oYKEOuE_mRW718w8aT4pmtl9vaLapCC3sL5eaD5fxZ1OunmY2mBb7w2nl8lAXerGIPh_tWAQnPQi67llLwsuyU7C1aFEA4AtmiHyAuvukXiAfZcyeeJ0ew/s1600/7809+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGlRVTBMxhRF1kw8oYKEOuE_mRW718w8aT4pmtl9vaLapCC3sL5eaD5fxZ1OunmY2mBb7w2nl8lAXerGIPh_tWAQnPQi67llLwsuyU7C1aFEA4AtmiHyAuvukXiAfZcyeeJ0ew/s640/7809+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add just enough broth to cover by an inch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEK-4KQBLKpT3YSVDey8U0E0YelTV5nif50dmAulr6khB0ZTGVoFBc7QdH5wbxZpmrrKdSuUtzJF5gs4q0JMG3Wa_6YXUyX-RBEPbUiTV5BZBojrmh7qTAEnIfe6PwLzXLaCV/s1600/7810+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEK-4KQBLKpT3YSVDey8U0E0YelTV5nif50dmAulr6khB0ZTGVoFBc7QdH5wbxZpmrrKdSuUtzJF5gs4q0JMG3Wa_6YXUyX-RBEPbUiTV5BZBojrmh7qTAEnIfe6PwLzXLaCV/s400/7810+tamales.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWh70ssotuHbvJDC-LWhi74cum6ug1HRuhI-I67UpjXlXWvPIHUkBUQiOkqMMqLJfdf29jSkfrP_KK6_dx-uU2uocpd4ETK3bGPQusCWkMkgOEV2y1GDx4jgquZwztKOS0jfQY/s1600/7812+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWh70ssotuHbvJDC-LWhi74cum6ug1HRuhI-I67UpjXlXWvPIHUkBUQiOkqMMqLJfdf29jSkfrP_KK6_dx-uU2uocpd4ETK3bGPQusCWkMkgOEV2y1GDx4jgquZwztKOS0jfQY/s640/7812+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You should get about 7 cups of thick sauce.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<b><u>Pork Carnitas</u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>yields 3 pounds</i></span><br />
Pork shoulder, approximately 5 pounds.<br />
2 onions (divided)<br />
4 teaspoons cumin (divided)<br />
2 teaspoon oregano (divided)<br />
garlic<br />
1 tablespoon kosher salt (use half if using regular table salt)<br />
2 tablespoons oil<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdNuuyoQ6Mz24woAt1DRDRdhO7pgM7IP2dFRZgQuHi2KhW5mOVoHrU24mCGh1J8TLfxpcxbhZcNI0ZIlTczP9mjnkZWUYdEs5te9bAFx0PuD4PMCDFXIdAdQHTqSaDQWOCHL0/s1600/IMG_3612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdNuuyoQ6Mz24woAt1DRDRdhO7pgM7IP2dFRZgQuHi2KhW5mOVoHrU24mCGh1J8TLfxpcxbhZcNI0ZIlTczP9mjnkZWUYdEs5te9bAFx0PuD4PMCDFXIdAdQHTqSaDQWOCHL0/s200/IMG_3612.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used maybe a 1/3 of this giant roast!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-5ff6fb70-0ea6-cbbc-f1de-54d0bb2cd48b"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />Cut pork roast into 4-5 big chunks and cover with water in a dutch oven or large pot. Add one of the onions (just quarter the onion), 2 tsp cumin, 1 tablespoon kosher salt and 1 tsp oregano. Bring to boil then lower to simmer for 2-3 hours, until it shreds easily. Shred meat. It's very fatty so don't be worried at how much you throw out. Strain the broth and save for sauce! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Saute the last onion in oil, 2-3 cloves garlic and 2 teaspoons cumin and 1 tsp oregano, 5 minutes in a skillet. Add meat and cook another 5-7 minutes, stirring until meat starts to brown. The meat is fatty so frying it gets rid of that greasy taste and browns it nicely. Taste and season with salt.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhXE7-AfYa_a02UAn7YXbChDsm485OkumNW5ijs_5Nphul9jl2neWHT7u5izj2-GGce-j6OCIakZFHFIiQILRn_JHcMdRLqQfeoibEH_51XjU5KzliB9frccE2Iy7_PsPkEAs/s1600/7813+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhXE7-AfYa_a02UAn7YXbChDsm485OkumNW5ijs_5Nphul9jl2neWHT7u5izj2-GGce-j6OCIakZFHFIiQILRn_JHcMdRLqQfeoibEH_51XjU5KzliB9frccE2Iy7_PsPkEAs/s640/7813+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fry the carnitas after boiled for added flavor.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Add just enough red chile sauce to the fried carnitas to moisten the meat, approximately</span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 2-3 cups.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><u>Masa Preparada*</u></b> (Prepared corn dough)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Buy 6 pounds</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If at all possible buy fresh prepared masa from a Latin American market. I buy mine from Rancho Market in Provo, Utah. I usually have to call a day in advance and order the dough but at Christmas they keep it out, ready to buy. Prepared masa is made from ground corn/hominy, pork lard, baking powder and salt. Your market may not add the baking powder, so you might have to add 1 tablespoon per 5 pounds. Make sure you taste it to see if there is enough salt. Mine was almost too salty so I was worried but it turned out fine. It just tastes like a raw torilla or raw cornbread at this point.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SGVWz-nDjjpQb5zrJhDNsaeuXJ9wTiwa2aEDoEH2zSpcVDPai8hhbFGN-whMzp4xAlsYa9M7ZBP4zk3VOsdhE55ivb2IaE7dJdhdgIfgq8gqP5s5X5QZk-GWJ3rvMYd2pmzm/s1600/IMG_3606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SGVWz-nDjjpQb5zrJhDNsaeuXJ9wTiwa2aEDoEH2zSpcVDPai8hhbFGN-whMzp4xAlsYa9M7ZBP4zk3VOsdhE55ivb2IaE7dJdhdgIfgq8gqP5s5X5QZk-GWJ3rvMYd2pmzm/s400/IMG_3606.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of masa at the Mexican market!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqNvvO63yEy363UlZothWUqoMSCPH-1Wy5i2_FI7AlcQbxrJPKKLwc8vqpnMV4ZkTeFqNQK-GND1-K4FgbZRpU49HgD6H2A6NFJPa2xB37w0i8IStiGvpETWFki11HYasNQSq/s1600/IMG_3623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqNvvO63yEy363UlZothWUqoMSCPH-1Wy5i2_FI7AlcQbxrJPKKLwc8vqpnMV4ZkTeFqNQK-GND1-K4FgbZRpU49HgD6H2A6NFJPa2xB37w0i8IStiGvpETWFki11HYasNQSq/s320/IMG_3623.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You'll need approx. 6 pounds </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>*If you can't buy already prepared masa, you'll have to buy powdered masa harina and follow the directions on the package to make your own dough with pork lard. For the love of all that's holy and decent, don't use shortening. Fresh pork lard from a butcher is best, but Manteca brand lard is also found on the shelf. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pull masa from the fridge about 1-2 hours before you need it as it will be softer and easier to work with at room temperature. Or if like me you forget....adding the still-warm red chile sauce will warm it up fast. Which brings me the next step: <b><i>you must flavor the masa with your sauce.</i></b> This is what will set it apart from basic (meaning gross) tamales. </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Add just enough sauce, approximately 2-3 cups to moisten dough. You still want the dough thick, but more spreadable than before. Just add 1-2 cups of sauce, mix, and add more if needed. Use your hands, no spoon will mix the sauce into the very thick masa, so get dirty! Wash hands well unless you want them stained orange! Don't stress about adding the exact right amount of sauce. If you don't add enough, it's ok! Basically you want a nice orange-colored dough.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">At this point you have sauced your meat and sauced your dough. You will have leftover sauce--it freezes well. I like to pour it over shredded rotisserie chicken for a fast taco dinner. Great for enchiladas as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rDA7Aoy7OpZZo1EcGl_lyZfi7MC8P5HTMQsxMp6OviacyQ7QDHnvhD5KEJnABzLvSsT_z2UemEyBJZ47HzFY2hMw-UzRGT5QMLMYzJq72Ldp7H4-iA6CEfmJSkqUUdj5ReJJ/s1600/7814+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rDA7Aoy7OpZZo1EcGl_lyZfi7MC8P5HTMQsxMp6OviacyQ7QDHnvhD5KEJnABzLvSsT_z2UemEyBJZ47HzFY2hMw-UzRGT5QMLMYzJq72Ldp7H4-iA6CEfmJSkqUUdj5ReJJ/s640/7814+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Masa dough before adding red chile sauce.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXWGKdiPem1082UNve-2kfjC5EfiwydF7O4aheUXbecEy773hn3Jt6spqHX8xe_l3pMcMVk7MD_Ph1B1zjvUUWMd-fN-PSFNK2IKG2nfvQLl4TEGGyWsiT6v3NM9l3mgGEMBZI/s1600/IMG_3624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXWGKdiPem1082UNve-2kfjC5EfiwydF7O4aheUXbecEy773hn3Jt6spqHX8xe_l3pMcMVk7MD_Ph1B1zjvUUWMd-fN-PSFNK2IKG2nfvQLl4TEGGyWsiT6v3NM9l3mgGEMBZI/s400/IMG_3624.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><u>Corn husks</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Buy a one pound package of corn husks. You will not even use half of this package. It's nice to have extra so you can use the biggest ones and throw out the wimpy smaller ones.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Soak the entire package, in two large bowls, in warm water 30-60 minutes. Use something heavy to weigh them down because otherwise they just float. Remove from water, shake off excess, and get ready to assemble.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5focVEei8I78Q0_Ci2e6ClwNi2L2N0ocmS-JrfMLGVfKxpZussx3runy0BMOnO1lM84eeLxwqwQyvSUA5JRnJf_cKE-DsYm4ndaCh4QEfAADvFsT3iyxSfc8ZN_ZShGGRxGJ/s1600/7811+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5focVEei8I78Q0_Ci2e6ClwNi2L2N0ocmS-JrfMLGVfKxpZussx3runy0BMOnO1lM84eeLxwqwQyvSUA5JRnJf_cKE-DsYm4ndaCh4QEfAADvFsT3iyxSfc8ZN_ZShGGRxGJ/s640/7811+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWOpMi_tZ_X9k0WtudIxgMIcyB8OW1OE39QYQGRDjv_X3oaFx2Avo35hSoTpa-oswAAlB6_0kVJpyX5i3MmFhzHYFXwIt_kjop9IOekB-O0D3bL3sXpocO6D4zt_tzXO_i-9g/s1600/IMG_3617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWOpMi_tZ_X9k0WtudIxgMIcyB8OW1OE39QYQGRDjv_X3oaFx2Avo35hSoTpa-oswAAlB6_0kVJpyX5i3MmFhzHYFXwIt_kjop9IOekB-O0D3bL3sXpocO6D4zt_tzXO_i-9g/s400/IMG_3617.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">soak the corn husks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finally you are ready to assemble! Using a spoon, spread a thin layer over the entire half of the best and biggest corn husks. Spread some pork in the middle, then fold into thirds over the meat, then in half. (Watch video.) It's ok if some are small and some are huge. I like having different sizes depending on how hungry I am. :) Stack upright in a 9x13 pan until ready to steam or freeze.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/35FutA57mjo/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/35FutA57mjo?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOGXWvalg851PC_Hm2z0OXbJScEh62Vw3c-5kRTTdjYG1APQKLEDEOO5PVDigv8ePUumiqmuBRw2JqDmSevLZ-MPix1hXn0SxpjM-21KidmUWcinJNP_vans98X15Xb2Eioe1W/s1600/7815+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOGXWvalg851PC_Hm2z0OXbJScEh62Vw3c-5kRTTdjYG1APQKLEDEOO5PVDigv8ePUumiqmuBRw2JqDmSevLZ-MPix1hXn0SxpjM-21KidmUWcinJNP_vans98X15Xb2Eioe1W/s640/7815+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuGGIJTRFmNv3VuycvccTbo2ZSJ7FzEbuovcTIR19uN6MiZnqUpLZowehCNwAjNNqaaPOF1pCF_g1Ki6B86hL2ZYJLGk6OlJOkiCnGu68M2qitkmYGqZjis9Lt4tNwsBBcjp_/s1600/7818+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuGGIJTRFmNv3VuycvccTbo2ZSJ7FzEbuovcTIR19uN6MiZnqUpLZowehCNwAjNNqaaPOF1pCF_g1Ki6B86hL2ZYJLGk6OlJOkiCnGu68M2qitkmYGqZjis9Lt4tNwsBBcjp_/s640/7818+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6owJ5z9v9y8Nks2QxnSbT7e4RJy3uiuqM2J73A_K1CXFRHwiiVXM0NL5C13vtC7DuQz158YHMCAUZL5m3lce4AM0JpVnqMc1GBBNyr4pbGx7yp8Cm8zDo_oP5Xr3JiH2Thc9/s1600/making+tamales+%25282%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6owJ5z9v9y8Nks2QxnSbT7e4RJy3uiuqM2J73A_K1CXFRHwiiVXM0NL5C13vtC7DuQz158YHMCAUZL5m3lce4AM0JpVnqMc1GBBNyr4pbGx7yp8Cm8zDo_oP5Xr3JiH2Thc9/s640/making+tamales+%25282%2529b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flashback to 2011: If desired, you can add a slice of carrot and potato as well.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2p3pWBXzo2pqpiDrqeQE3pNF-Q6Zh_8NfIysbhMfLrWvxsljIhar5VdpZyg4LEtEwh94u6HIdBM0WQsz8CaJCZttKvLwTBF3EbwsHXQUkZ34W-xjm-6CqGXaElBHxiYIzEX5/s1600/7820+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2p3pWBXzo2pqpiDrqeQE3pNF-Q6Zh_8NfIysbhMfLrWvxsljIhar5VdpZyg4LEtEwh94u6HIdBM0WQsz8CaJCZttKvLwTBF3EbwsHXQUkZ34W-xjm-6CqGXaElBHxiYIzEX5/s640/7820+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
At this point, they are ready to steam. Place them upright, in a steamer basket (I use my pasta pot), fill the bottom of the pot with water but don't let the water touch the tamales! Bring to boil and lower to a simmer. Steam/simmer for 1 hour, checking pot towards the end so water doesn't run out. I have done this before and burned my pot! Turn off heat and let them sit for another 30-60 minutes in the pot. You could eat them now but like a cake, it's best to let them firm up a bit before eating them. (video below)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/q5Iazl6id9g/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q5Iazl6id9g?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>To freeze:</b> Place raw tamales in large freezer bags and freeze upright so the filling won't spill out while they are freezing. Let thaw overnight in refrigerator and steam as directed above.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQeIGgcNRNv5vjBmuw4yMRujRxe0B4isTFVeORkeoDmPejhH0AJ-4Vqyiv5vv6T0uERTQ4ycJQ6BHj877ECzCvFx3muXw-VgU8Dh1NkYsK76-O-Y9-_CX9qs-W1vgwEYTO0kIR/s1600/7876+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQeIGgcNRNv5vjBmuw4yMRujRxe0B4isTFVeORkeoDmPejhH0AJ-4Vqyiv5vv6T0uERTQ4ycJQ6BHj877ECzCvFx3muXw-VgU8Dh1NkYsK76-O-Y9-_CX9qs-W1vgwEYTO0kIR/s640/7876+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">frozen tamales</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>To reheat one already-cooked tamal:</b> Soak a paper towel or napkin in water, wrap around the cold tamale and microwave approx. 2 minutes. If you try to just microwave it without the steam of the paper towel you will dry it out. Don't do it!!!<br />
<br />
Such a special meal at Christmas time!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-BFeKAOacaTdVhZ34mqnF8vY-1ycVWg2Xs8Sdn73dIMEoosQUlliGqf4vFPeL65-GmmHpgpvW8_xr6SwnOQVb6VYTUPZaQT-BWJyBHoQ9iBrsxQe5OFpiXtboxwak5zdr0uv/s1600/7828+tamales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-BFeKAOacaTdVhZ34mqnF8vY-1ycVWg2Xs8Sdn73dIMEoosQUlliGqf4vFPeL65-GmmHpgpvW8_xr6SwnOQVb6VYTUPZaQT-BWJyBHoQ9iBrsxQe5OFpiXtboxwak5zdr0uv/s640/7828+tamales.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I hope this inspires you to make your own! They are a labor of love but so tasty it's worth every hour of work and every dirty pot and pan. Buen provecho!<br />
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-66906795327654220112016-11-07T17:35:00.008-07:002017-05-18T10:52:48.754-06:00Trees and Faith and People<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Nathan in Tree 2.jpg" height="297" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/7jgXPSDqAuEgpkCqvSeeL8_xVboZDgSyr29Id-xdyrxOxMml51Ba1hlDXx8ir5192sa18JHaDlXfXrSVVtB0valicAyj4-eH81zxmrl5KP-juXCS3poECQ3S40ChqHwILacuFlkm" style="border: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nathan the tree climber, 2004, age 6.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When my son Nathan was a toddler I told him that I was heading to the nursery to buy a tree for our yard. Up until now we had only installed a sprinkler system and some struggling hydroseed for our lawn. It was a sad little yard, hot and shadeless. When I came home from the nursery, Nathan took one look at that sapling of a tree and with disappointment exclaimed,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> “Mom I wanted the kind of tree you can climb!” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fair enough. I wanted shade and he wanted to climb. Neither of us would get what we wanted, at least not yet. It was going to be a while. Years in fact.</span></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />
</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vdguLEN19RrP2K_c6ZZOmt1tnsY2Jd-3CA_Db7Mq9cCw8ULyJDd9WrccoTmHmRVB5xppgrgZZlIidQ6V0F9ji9i1VOjgDOYRdD6EjZuVB7sV9rVHDatrAFt_yJJcizLnxFO_/s1600/Picture+067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vdguLEN19RrP2K_c6ZZOmt1tnsY2Jd-3CA_Db7Mq9cCw8ULyJDd9WrccoTmHmRVB5xppgrgZZlIidQ6V0F9ji9i1VOjgDOYRdD6EjZuVB7sV9rVHDatrAFt_yJJcizLnxFO_/s640/Picture+067.jpg" width="474" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spindly little Tulip tree. The wind later snapped it in half. :(</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We moved by the time Nathan was eight so he never got to climb a tree in our yard nor did I enjoy any shade at that house, but I was determined to make both happen. In our new house, once again we had the arduous task of putting in a yard. And that meant planting more trees. We planted Ash trees, Flowering Pears, Aspens, Redbuds, and Maples. Ten years later I have my shade. And maybe Nathan is too big to climb trees now, but his little girl or boy will get to climb our 23 trees someday. They'll be large enough by then.</span></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUq28RhKSEUXxVo7WvUca2y4sb_zYxwcaqoiMaGnAzLKup-I5C_w4mNeOpeI0xcvW0mrX_p4zaDuq4rdzttuEmsHhNpZ3Eqd4f28gAcvexMuIIVFi9L4a7c0mDtQZYOohPs98E/s1600/5207+birds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUq28RhKSEUXxVo7WvUca2y4sb_zYxwcaqoiMaGnAzLKup-I5C_w4mNeOpeI0xcvW0mrX_p4zaDuq4rdzttuEmsHhNpZ3Eqd4f28gAcvexMuIIVFi9L4a7c0mDtQZYOohPs98E/s640/5207+birds.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birds feeding under my Patmore Ash</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thankfully I do have shade now. I need its refuge. This sun worshiper is getting too old to sit bare-faced in the hot backyard anymore without a bit of respite from the glaring sun. As I sit under my 10-year old trees, listening to the messages in the rustling leaves, watching the birds eat from the orange feeder, I think about my little son and his desire to climb a tree that couldn’t even bear his tiny body weight and how everything worth having in life takes as much time as growing a climb-able tree. Faith. Healthy relationships. Healing. Patience. Perspective. The messages in those fluttering leaves have taught me how God speaks to me--subtle but sure. Trees take years. So do people.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0b6hekW4L2OzrXH-U4vheetie6RjWdMIOHzG-Mtiq8e5aQpMObGsy83G4W0EB3tunkQpjnZgm7KB-HVKoP4Sni4wJUEnMFhOd0e-2PuRiDkv4trvhlAB6pvkPHwWbNH2MHXWK/s1600/3496+holland+keukenhof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0b6hekW4L2OzrXH-U4vheetie6RjWdMIOHzG-Mtiq8e5aQpMObGsy83G4W0EB3tunkQpjnZgm7KB-HVKoP4Sni4wJUEnMFhOd0e-2PuRiDkv4trvhlAB6pvkPHwWbNH2MHXWK/s640/3496+holland+keukenhof.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Orange tukips in Keukenhof, Netherlands</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">After ten years, some tree roots are large enough that they are visible through my lawn. I planted about 50 orange tulip bulbs a few weeks ago. As I dug holes all around my yard I kept running into </span><span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">the deeper but smaller, more spidery, tree roots. I did my best not to disturb them, to let them do their own thing, and to carefully plant the bulbs around the roots into our rocky Utah soil. Those thin little roots will get thicker and more stable year after year. They'll keep progressing and spreading, sending out more roots, like I am, even when, or especially when, growth seems to be negligible and even non-existent. </span></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPBsjIYjP0hNIUzG-ugV80nXuqGR5qvNpAfBCFIZ5tiyqO8j31NqdalRxmyI1sLaK8JGVMEq16MdD69QahlxIy_NSn7KUbJ_JtsxKNz2b4wkdqCid0tVTiVCcNeRiRF6OJ3HO/s1600/4181+nathan+graduation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPBsjIYjP0hNIUzG-ugV80nXuqGR5qvNpAfBCFIZ5tiyqO8j31NqdalRxmyI1sLaK8JGVMEq16MdD69QahlxIy_NSn7KUbJ_JtsxKNz2b4wkdqCid0tVTiVCcNeRiRF6OJ3HO/s640/4181+nathan+graduation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Nathan the graduate under our shady Maple.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />
</span></div></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Last week we hiked through Zion's, in Kolob Canyon, through a thin and narrow passage filled with brightly colored fall trees. As we hiked, a gust of wind came through quickly and I heard that familar movement of leaves. Paul stopped and said “I love that sound, the rush of wind through a narrow canyon.” He heard wind but I heard God, once again whispering to me through rustling leaves, that everything is going to be okay. He is aware of me. I matter. Be patient. Let my roots grow deeper. He has given me shade for now, and soon it will be time to climb.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLq6WgTJVEslBp2YGZpGYxJax64T2Q-aQ9WBY32COmq4zsqb29Bcv_YuNY7grSQDhGdNL-ClCABQDptnwjwyfX3q_hGP80LrwU-b7og2C7qUPoZiydA9MzkG4ML_XxH1lR_bXx/s1600/7131+kolob+canyon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLq6WgTJVEslBp2YGZpGYxJax64T2Q-aQ9WBY32COmq4zsqb29Bcv_YuNY7grSQDhGdNL-ClCABQDptnwjwyfX3q_hGP80LrwU-b7og2C7qUPoZiydA9MzkG4ML_XxH1lR_bXx/s640/7131+kolob+canyon.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Autumn leaves in Kolob Canyon</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-1957543680618035452016-09-10T19:01:00.000-06:002016-09-10T19:08:50.605-06:00Taking my Son's Senior PortraitsGraduation was months ago. My son is now living in the <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2016/07/my-son-missionary.html" target="_blank">Dominican Republic as a missionary,</a> but finally I am writing about his senior portraits. It is possible to take your own kiddo's senior portraits. Here is proof!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IpmVoP9_q3eZmMTc2CNqIBUXUtzLftjFZ-bYLLwt0qshS8J57co0AmPXIvX1PUGBHboCiyRc3Muj4cLXZxdYhFuXoRhp5ApwjUofkyq1otOAyNbVCPI853pmzPvSAqEXAt78/s1600/4044+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IpmVoP9_q3eZmMTc2CNqIBUXUtzLftjFZ-bYLLwt0qshS8J57co0AmPXIvX1PUGBHboCiyRc3Muj4cLXZxdYhFuXoRhp5ApwjUofkyq1otOAyNbVCPI853pmzPvSAqEXAt78/s640/4044+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love taking photos on a cloudy day, no harsh sun.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Nathan is a happy kid. But put him in front of a camera, especially when it is drizzling with rain in early May, and out comes the crabby kid.<br />
<br />
The photo below was at the beginning of the photo shoot. No smiles. Sheesh kid.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXxI0tiKZoW5n7ulxW3PIVVBXbifrCvfU7sp97cY7FnQcby453SZYrOttNHXinDM4b9Sb0Cqm7HVeODqMFrP_zr29QXyIp-7FY97HxzRQAcDVc98kFI_hTafi4pqsEZZWw7h8/s1600/3949+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXxI0tiKZoW5n7ulxW3PIVVBXbifrCvfU7sp97cY7FnQcby453SZYrOttNHXinDM4b9Sb0Cqm7HVeODqMFrP_zr29QXyIp-7FY97HxzRQAcDVc98kFI_hTafi4pqsEZZWw7h8/s640/3949+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2eCkgHZB2igvWrbsbUdpQEWwpTf1TfzIAonQj48GJAIEih6cXweRj_mriD9UpPKBo-7wXPfl8HYkXEh19rrIcWcT3ManDroed6QcaFDIoeqoj5wciGwResibK8u301xrbBrO/s1600/3992+nathan+senior+pics+b%2526w-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2eCkgHZB2igvWrbsbUdpQEWwpTf1TfzIAonQj48GJAIEih6cXweRj_mriD9UpPKBo-7wXPfl8HYkXEh19rrIcWcT3ManDroed6QcaFDIoeqoj5wciGwResibK8u301xrbBrO/s640/3992+nathan+senior+pics+b%2526w-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see the rain in this shot!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHqnx79Uy9twutwE4hos9X9aP_dUKe1FNgoUmzZVz77A3jxwgJk_vavlNFsVepO9WT56FD5S4uQiPKIINl8PusiopwPr3nHxecwk1sKv7ZuLkLIFjStmEqZ-ryhajRz_XRCMq/s1600/3954+nathan+senior+pics+b%2526w-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHqnx79Uy9twutwE4hos9X9aP_dUKe1FNgoUmzZVz77A3jxwgJk_vavlNFsVepO9WT56FD5S4uQiPKIINl8PusiopwPr3nHxecwk1sKv7ZuLkLIFjStmEqZ-ryhajRz_XRCMq/s640/3954+nathan+senior+pics+b%2526w-2.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<br />
The photo below is at the end of the photo shoot when he had<i> finally</i> loosened up and he allowed his sister and me to tease him and make him laugh.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGz079D0x2GcJ_naAdCp5keNysXGzh9t46kLdyBgFpMKXLMVo5MQTxTCXSY6Ro8Phwv7j_BF4QNtrTfba3VJNKOtaDqgky4Pra4NP7e5-WuFPLuHfVMZgO67oY7FCi-Mau4pt/s1600/4047+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGz079D0x2GcJ_naAdCp5keNysXGzh9t46kLdyBgFpMKXLMVo5MQTxTCXSY6Ro8Phwv7j_BF4QNtrTfba3VJNKOtaDqgky4Pra4NP7e5-WuFPLuHfVMZgO67oY7FCi-Mau4pt/s640/4047+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="464" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken in Provo, Utah on Boat harbor Drive, near Utah Lake. ISO 250, f/4, 1/800 second, </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I took all the photos with my <a href="http://www.adorama.com/inkd750.html" target="_blank">Nikon d750</a> using my <a href="http://www.adorama.com/nk8518u.html" target="_blank">Nikon 85mm 1.8 prime lens</a>. It's a beautiful portrait lens. Couldn't be happier with its quality.<br />
<br />
All photos are edited in Adobe Lightroom. I added a slight vignetting around each photo for drama and depth.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg82wWe9Y-p9cxlo9EiZ1DHqkm4xrQvwuwpe9GjjXY2_-ltiuz2Bn4Kl_mNFsR_RHwtuO3BjYyw_lZTwTjY8BWTc9TFsmqLIZuRHgSrzXvH_HwSWO2Q_1M97wrvLtiS-FP-z4ph/s1600/4002+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg82wWe9Y-p9cxlo9EiZ1DHqkm4xrQvwuwpe9GjjXY2_-ltiuz2Bn4Kl_mNFsR_RHwtuO3BjYyw_lZTwTjY8BWTc9TFsmqLIZuRHgSrzXvH_HwSWO2Q_1M97wrvLtiS-FP-z4ph/s640/4002+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken in Spanish Fork, Utah on a cloudy day at 2:00pm.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVFZT_rZL8w9HnjjKrkQ3SQgjgRv2usoVouV8D47I8FWTHOGymxwBVVrXrypd7MnGL-dKWwY-EoiDqcHrsoWlGpuRoWR1YWqmKqgLKZO7XizI-mKNzYQyoLM5tFfc5vJ4f8WG/s1600/4057+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVFZT_rZL8w9HnjjKrkQ3SQgjgRv2usoVouV8D47I8FWTHOGymxwBVVrXrypd7MnGL-dKWwY-EoiDqcHrsoWlGpuRoWR1YWqmKqgLKZO7XizI-mKNzYQyoLM5tFfc5vJ4f8WG/s640/4057+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken on Boat Harbor Drive in Provo, Utah near Utah Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuaWegjrqFaKqTIpV3u3-bFyUj5Il49rXBMN7tscAmHn2okwn38JkFJQCC0AVQr76X3AVdXYf6huFlG12TO3JwOvFCCjRrRkT-5Oi-zPhcfwZmEVMbsIW71upsvnb1JShGrs4/s1600/4016+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuaWegjrqFaKqTIpV3u3-bFyUj5Il49rXBMN7tscAmHn2okwn38JkFJQCC0AVQr76X3AVdXYf6huFlG12TO3JwOvFCCjRrRkT-5Oi-zPhcfwZmEVMbsIW71upsvnb1JShGrs4/s640/4016+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite! ISO 250, 1/200 second, f/4, </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
One thing that was smart was bringing my daughter along to make him laugh and smile eventually. Aren't they the cutest?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvVlRD-WiLGIxwl9m9MHoHQW-B7RnMpaCpf05v1clLsx3bxXAwDweR7-R8H97VuEc2a7WOq13hfMptCcvXuB0CGFQOo70S5KMTLLVfqa3QEr6LjGNkVEpnn5YkU7vl7S6vZrl/s1600/4011+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvVlRD-WiLGIxwl9m9MHoHQW-B7RnMpaCpf05v1clLsx3bxXAwDweR7-R8H97VuEc2a7WOq13hfMptCcvXuB0CGFQOo70S5KMTLLVfqa3QEr6LjGNkVEpnn5YkU7vl7S6vZrl/s640/4011+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHGKLwhwz8XiapXQi2ghA_pD43RCpLsNhsFBKuOlKzNcAZ7XXdlHZYFPtFjKo5S8tICUvTfbqeBLc2tv3rB3q13RgweEWU8-ocUJ1rpS_24k_P_tU-19mwGTMJFGuhkIhj81z/s1600/4020+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHGKLwhwz8XiapXQi2ghA_pD43RCpLsNhsFBKuOlKzNcAZ7XXdlHZYFPtFjKo5S8tICUvTfbqeBLc2tv3rB3q13RgweEWU8-ocUJ1rpS_24k_P_tU-19mwGTMJFGuhkIhj81z/s640/4020+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I even got in a photo or two. Just to prove I was even there ya know.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPEe5kpnP3azgCViTV8DHruE2oA2Os14ahDSP8OFqpF7xlg3CDaF4ejJRgJQ_1OZwzvavHFQGHKW_VReqLRY4Jg_HkrtJ60D31mnLqHZPUlVpw4vibtpVrz1y18qTi6XxcA7A/s1600/4029+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPEe5kpnP3azgCViTV8DHruE2oA2Os14ahDSP8OFqpF7xlg3CDaF4ejJRgJQ_1OZwzvavHFQGHKW_VReqLRY4Jg_HkrtJ60D31mnLqHZPUlVpw4vibtpVrz1y18qTi6XxcA7A/s640/4029+nathan+senior+pics_.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I printed the graduation announcements at <a href="http://www.adoramapix.com/app/dashboard/" target="_blank">AdoramaPix</a> using <a href="http://www.adoramapix.com/app/products/setup/greeting-cards/category/Graduation/#/category/Graduation/9265?urlname=Big-Grad" target="_blank">this template</a> and the pearl finish for the paper. I am not a fan of collages for announcements. Pick one amazing photo for the front, and one for the back. Don't clutter the announcement, keep it classy and simple.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijHGDTCPYAggUX36DPvxB7g-CgtEHkUUqXnh6_t95v_a0YzjZR061ZYipDQmyGy8e-75glxkjG-eQ-oQY92uEiwY9tcVMNAboOqTU4_Dil1ODsTHXyuRzKjNsxj5qlik7IwMJ8/s1600/6437+sept+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijHGDTCPYAggUX36DPvxB7g-CgtEHkUUqXnh6_t95v_a0YzjZR061ZYipDQmyGy8e-75glxkjG-eQ-oQY92uEiwY9tcVMNAboOqTU4_Dil1ODsTHXyuRzKjNsxj5qlik7IwMJ8/s640/6437+sept+2016.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hdjUroyiRCxVtrJ1Mkq_6r1vHhqCiC4XTzdQi8pFIu-hXXGAcOGB7G4m7tVS8CadCtDCOAJHE_PGF4xqoVPQHDhZYHFKAkZl8OTZhTVMLeTthavpq8eK1ruIicxNVAJjTo_8/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hdjUroyiRCxVtrJ1Mkq_6r1vHhqCiC4XTzdQi8pFIu-hXXGAcOGB7G4m7tVS8CadCtDCOAJHE_PGF4xqoVPQHDhZYHFKAkZl8OTZhTVMLeTthavpq8eK1ruIicxNVAJjTo_8/s400/Untitled-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adorama Pix template used.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />I took the photos on a Saturday afternoon and had them ordered by that night. Not bad for a day's work!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Oh, and why do kids grow up so fast?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBGsxgq9Uye1NklhO-YQJ68CMM1U7QuUBSfBlv9b6Q6cfTRfvY6RHIm05ZV80ko2Mkgeu0Uk5DgZ1OQVCvOmiNILHQzY5I0zldkUyucWYmq1GADCYfnKBMpJrlzP6n14uUzDj/s1600/4184+nathan+graduation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBGsxgq9Uye1NklhO-YQJ68CMM1U7QuUBSfBlv9b6Q6cfTRfvY6RHIm05ZV80ko2Mkgeu0Uk5DgZ1OQVCvOmiNILHQzY5I0zldkUyucWYmq1GADCYfnKBMpJrlzP6n14uUzDj/s640/4184+nathan+graduation.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-32164801960799989112016-08-04T18:35:00.003-06:002016-08-04T18:44:21.822-06:00Wood Stairs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I have been wanting to rip the beige shaggy goodness off of our stairs for several years now. Finally it is done!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSB2qm1C0MTQQHbGiT6V8iXuqJWq-wnHCNmvCAMNMDs9tmBqPii8Pz2H0On3S6sys4i4RMaS2HDVyG5JoWYEtwlurF8CT79gTTrEzyYU8udQHZUeRDuajRNvxL5yndgK92zduw/s1600/6204+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSB2qm1C0MTQQHbGiT6V8iXuqJWq-wnHCNmvCAMNMDs9tmBqPii8Pz2H0On3S6sys4i4RMaS2HDVyG5JoWYEtwlurF8CT79gTTrEzyYU8udQHZUeRDuajRNvxL5yndgK92zduw/s640/6204+stairs.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My kiddos didn't want wood stairs because they prefer to lounge on them and wood stairs ain't good for loungin'. Good grief.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcgKC37D99LVDbk9fMs6LDd7hQFh1AHJTM1RZe_ibEgM19LnaPIvQesHZcWnGYaOHew6M9RWm5OSK2egMJnz55aE720w-QRyyhQoXRHkYCrxa25eNnf3mYx9Wfmn1VfdjnLq_/s1600/IMG_5929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcgKC37D99LVDbk9fMs6LDd7hQFh1AHJTM1RZe_ibEgM19LnaPIvQesHZcWnGYaOHew6M9RWm5OSK2egMJnz55aE720w-QRyyhQoXRHkYCrxa25eNnf3mYx9Wfmn1VfdjnLq_/s400/IMG_5929.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
But I am the queen of my castle, well sort of. So once the kids got old enough that falling down the stairs was less likely, and once they accepted chairs for sitting, not stairs, we began the process. Here are some before pictures:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6OXH-xFZpSZuldf5vsaw2AI_hgMK2Y_7zqN_AUm-E29A75mfYcHYODxJz9FFHX0BP_IphB_4nGvoYOsQj1YRBxvkmjzgwaJjWMsp4FBTONsGIys55s-dUwOqtWLKP7YBIjZd5/s1600/IMG_0580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6OXH-xFZpSZuldf5vsaw2AI_hgMK2Y_7zqN_AUm-E29A75mfYcHYODxJz9FFHX0BP_IphB_4nGvoYOsQj1YRBxvkmjzgwaJjWMsp4FBTONsGIys55s-dUwOqtWLKP7YBIjZd5/s640/IMG_0580.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bottom stairs were always dirty....always :(</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdk5uDSXIE2q9_oWas5geHBcWxvLGWbmFOg6y7T3NMxui7906sPUJTBeVvE1kK08puINaaeFlUTxLF5etSO1zD1_7mi03AjeoJuVWdRRr8z4Iv2yTrxShT4MtSMgcJQXsFf8kz/s1600/IMG_0581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdk5uDSXIE2q9_oWas5geHBcWxvLGWbmFOg6y7T3NMxui7906sPUJTBeVvE1kK08puINaaeFlUTxLF5etSO1zD1_7mi03AjeoJuVWdRRr8z4Iv2yTrxShT4MtSMgcJQXsFf8kz/s640/IMG_0581.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shaggy goodness should've stayed in the 1970s</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrnxjlTYQlrZ-En6kssS8jhamcLOVeh2wqG1kWrXtW3bqm0uzuGrSuoILHkTlRbLoOzVG6YFz0rWYDbhlTUa6WEgtfrBYELJ5YeyALTuNF_ie_zK6s_fpzzXjG3Od5mEA4RyY6/s1600/IMG_0582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrnxjlTYQlrZ-En6kssS8jhamcLOVeh2wqG1kWrXtW3bqm0uzuGrSuoILHkTlRbLoOzVG6YFz0rWYDbhlTUa6WEgtfrBYELJ5YeyALTuNF_ie_zK6s_fpzzXjG3Od5mEA4RyY6/s640/IMG_0582.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">posts were just 4x4 pieces of wood stained. Nuttin' special.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I sent our contractor some inspiration photos. I wanted wood treads, white risers, and wainscoting. Thank you Pinterest!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6AeIZcNsBZy8lnOxC5KegjRjLM9vO_iV2ZvEAiIj3hqoN6TLOzkzoIiVe_cBwEJb3I18q30qwoWDPQZbKon_L0kccY50WcEIZPXY1QLdQhDo885Mxc3T_DascOov8MaYkzJP/s1600/IMG_0602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6AeIZcNsBZy8lnOxC5KegjRjLM9vO_iV2ZvEAiIj3hqoN6TLOzkzoIiVe_cBwEJb3I18q30qwoWDPQZbKon_L0kccY50WcEIZPXY1QLdQhDo885Mxc3T_DascOov8MaYkzJP/s640/IMG_0602.JPG" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lb9X4VV_QKhE4pl-73Gd09NeSLrqT9f1bfQxGxu-7Vgz6hZDyN5CLvr7ewysx-sXHnFb2I-Rw1o0ULhHeQGy6L8C5ftbqGnsCQ1ABx1usV0BpntU_l_DXBPdcXMQzHHzMY5O/s1600/IMG_0605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lb9X4VV_QKhE4pl-73Gd09NeSLrqT9f1bfQxGxu-7Vgz6hZDyN5CLvr7ewysx-sXHnFb2I-Rw1o0ULhHeQGy6L8C5ftbqGnsCQ1ABx1usV0BpntU_l_DXBPdcXMQzHHzMY5O/s640/IMG_0605.JPG" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Demolition began.....<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvwvpyZ6PB-NC-x568cOeuCF_zS2xA2pkuMmKymAtTwSk0ISLAOKFrbWWOar6Zjl3F1gedFkWEkU_VfafUnK3KcQF7AqhfX9ASRWSGJFSPXkBOH1W01jk4RUFwRrndyQl4cpB/s1600/IMG_1841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvwvpyZ6PB-NC-x568cOeuCF_zS2xA2pkuMmKymAtTwSk0ISLAOKFrbWWOar6Zjl3F1gedFkWEkU_VfafUnK3KcQF7AqhfX9ASRWSGJFSPXkBOH1W01jk4RUFwRrndyQl4cpB/s640/IMG_1841.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bye bye carpet and ugly rustic handrails.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivt9NyM40gd2ZQ9hr4Q0PKZv2ctwldl7-KMkY60dRWNBuI38pLBgHO7_vegnPt27DnTwMO1WvDnVvxmo-LTOWb0oauP7ZDkZrGWm1auppWX6t2YOwpVP_l09TrzT6I_2hEivym/s1600/IMG_1854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivt9NyM40gd2ZQ9hr4Q0PKZv2ctwldl7-KMkY60dRWNBuI38pLBgHO7_vegnPt27DnTwMO1WvDnVvxmo-LTOWb0oauP7ZDkZrGWm1auppWX6t2YOwpVP_l09TrzT6I_2hEivym/s640/IMG_1854.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wainscoting begins going up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Once wainscoting was done and sprayed the stairs could go in. I used my favorite white I use everywhere else, White Dove by Benjamin Moore.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CmHOxFH0IEwjCN7XvLMueOWefDA5XZhLAuU26vKdxi5CqVT8gYgErPFU9yFv4WMJqucPNEA06SbhaxXpZogIZTbfN4JA0aGpLTAw88z4Q1nSbNkVpwMbLbG8OxYh_oGn7DU5/s1600/IMG_1904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CmHOxFH0IEwjCN7XvLMueOWefDA5XZhLAuU26vKdxi5CqVT8gYgErPFU9yFv4WMJqucPNEA06SbhaxXpZogIZTbfN4JA0aGpLTAw88z4Q1nSbNkVpwMbLbG8OxYh_oGn7DU5/s640/IMG_1904.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Dove was sprayed on wainscoting and walls<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hickory treads went in next. White Melamine was used for the risers because they are super easy to wipe scuffs off instead of having to repaint scuffs on white-painted wood risers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjSiZLeT8der2ZHtIyhfaes3PgAUNBz1W1HKmjy7So0tLTWhbNYDnxuj3HbB9YqEIdVN50ZL3vL6uQJWgPuKF1CgtWnsv2pHetgvvacrInECMcyvhnS76grwfQIO1t_r6Rqqzi/s1600/6206+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjSiZLeT8der2ZHtIyhfaes3PgAUNBz1W1HKmjy7So0tLTWhbNYDnxuj3HbB9YqEIdVN50ZL3vL6uQJWgPuKF1CgtWnsv2pHetgvvacrInECMcyvhnS76grwfQIO1t_r6Rqqzi/s640/6206+stairs.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
Every project take longer than you think but it's always worth it in the end. I repainted some of my outdated picture frames navy blue and we are done!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRYHQrRzRIoI9MfbI344_k0IaXzuVv_w0FzycQTAD6Zu9O5BJSa9cBKbxWTsjPK0h0GBlyb9ceY0ZvqDECBKaCVE8spx7jelsLuefAvGsNNyvk6Nlrv3vVEFhxLvKOoeNkBTis/s1600/colorful+picture+frames+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRYHQrRzRIoI9MfbI344_k0IaXzuVv_w0FzycQTAD6Zu9O5BJSa9cBKbxWTsjPK0h0GBlyb9ceY0ZvqDECBKaCVE8spx7jelsLuefAvGsNNyvk6Nlrv3vVEFhxLvKOoeNkBTis/s320/colorful+picture+frames+006.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">not really into yellow and orange anymore</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBa3lR9wsve16_qXUCVJDVADhdC2lB0y5nsfr8KYsk07xUVm9VhAajjaNgKiAJKnQVEAtT3L9XWFYDDKavy1vHfHL9lfSWjZb0sLonFN3X8SpQfuwYWQS6eOHnbHKdPFmRBJf/s1600/6203+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBa3lR9wsve16_qXUCVJDVADhdC2lB0y5nsfr8KYsk07xUVm9VhAajjaNgKiAJKnQVEAtT3L9XWFYDDKavy1vHfHL9lfSWjZb0sLonFN3X8SpQfuwYWQS6eOHnbHKdPFmRBJf/s640/6203+stairs.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMXnPBkaxxYwabfuosoBykRAwsQUTQ0kjzbtfDZfGgipKeeLUjyV8Mu54z-qB_HQHlFTbyX0q1ss32oOj8gaJlTPNojxBcFAsgNx-2xXmDsk3cQxQm1gNlHj56ibCWdmk-Asu5/s1600/6205+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMXnPBkaxxYwabfuosoBykRAwsQUTQ0kjzbtfDZfGgipKeeLUjyV8Mu54z-qB_HQHlFTbyX0q1ss32oOj8gaJlTPNojxBcFAsgNx-2xXmDsk3cQxQm1gNlHj56ibCWdmk-Asu5/s640/6205+stairs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTRM5n__BFVi87S3p3jV2mXYaMZT_76wrBq60QK0v38mim1rikP5qu-B1igbw0VqkcrtbEW09Df32BJVQFKtUT2wahQwb2s9KLxdX9FgMrl_SJBl7NUOxw9FbDqgU52bQ4Wbze/s1600/6207+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTRM5n__BFVi87S3p3jV2mXYaMZT_76wrBq60QK0v38mim1rikP5qu-B1igbw0VqkcrtbEW09Df32BJVQFKtUT2wahQwb2s9KLxdX9FgMrl_SJBl7NUOxw9FbDqgU52bQ4Wbze/s640/6207+stairs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWRqmbqAeUAT7r-6_iFHWG8wXOAWb1r7l5cla50UbqueIb1yEjw2uwNYahkyj6oywaYxsH_ukYy0ajPz9zzfd67KJh8-_Ika01McwFptmAhUCOBB0ppRU2iQU25qvVR-uyRp-/s1600/6209+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWRqmbqAeUAT7r-6_iFHWG8wXOAWb1r7l5cla50UbqueIb1yEjw2uwNYahkyj6oywaYxsH_ukYy0ajPz9zzfd67KJh8-_Ika01McwFptmAhUCOBB0ppRU2iQU25qvVR-uyRp-/s640/6209+stairs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3iFbZ9iRizKss2tihFBZrPYswiq6tsbd6l6TihtCXpedNokiJCcRODoQL4OU_-xlvGUWhszW4twPWU9eIzWVPNuYcwIGFlp2FxNaSRO0ymRaRHYbGtJe5lnUgwYIYzLkSmytz/s1600/before+and+after+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3iFbZ9iRizKss2tihFBZrPYswiq6tsbd6l6TihtCXpedNokiJCcRODoQL4OU_-xlvGUWhszW4twPWU9eIzWVPNuYcwIGFlp2FxNaSRO0ymRaRHYbGtJe5lnUgwYIYzLkSmytz/s640/before+and+after+stairs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVfdsy0kK9G2ehCWmPUUzLmbmEzZFQ6q8NUZdvg16bju6dy_t4V7AjjQ3q8Ftddm4TiF2jMDLWUYa8BY8MlbiFVmrdDRxfYiptacaIzGNshMvFoA_DKZ6JDujSAti8t3PJ_BXi/s1600/6214+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVfdsy0kK9G2ehCWmPUUzLmbmEzZFQ6q8NUZdvg16bju6dy_t4V7AjjQ3q8Ftddm4TiF2jMDLWUYa8BY8MlbiFVmrdDRxfYiptacaIzGNshMvFoA_DKZ6JDujSAti8t3PJ_BXi/s640/6214+stairs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-9697966379277772382016-08-01T18:44:00.000-06:002016-08-10T09:56:55.706-06:00Mini Make-up Bags<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Every lady needs a little make up bag for her purse. I have been making these bags for about 8 years now and giving them out as small gifts to friends and family. I can make a bag in about 15 minutes if not embroidered. Adding some embellishments like embroidery will add a few more minutes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRj-Do3HqSxT7CmXZWtXwQnG85JWTCxK_qSkJ34K2rNgPbpeZRayc79ZzXN4E-5TkqdawQ33eqrKJlgxNPzyQSr1ysemiRJCJ9p1tnbhG-2NoftEzXMOgO0NrUYaPxRfcnbv0h/s1600/6186+scribbled+bird+b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRj-Do3HqSxT7CmXZWtXwQnG85JWTCxK_qSkJ34K2rNgPbpeZRayc79ZzXN4E-5TkqdawQ33eqrKJlgxNPzyQSr1ysemiRJCJ9p1tnbhG-2NoftEzXMOgO0NrUYaPxRfcnbv0h/s640/6186+scribbled+bird+b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugLvVjzA1SCSbhnKCT1rtuyMhClzTaHcmnAwJnR4vdmqX8xE-2b7zXKG3AP0eOmUSzFBxv4dmeQQRjnU5jSGXo5WugK9nI_-chQKhX9Ed-dWoXj-iSTOXPXA5FNCQaXgiYjR9/s1600/6195+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugLvVjzA1SCSbhnKCT1rtuyMhClzTaHcmnAwJnR4vdmqX8xE-2b7zXKG3AP0eOmUSzFBxv4dmeQQRjnU5jSGXo5WugK9nI_-chQKhX9Ed-dWoXj-iSTOXPXA5FNCQaXgiYjR9/s640/6195+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Enjoy the tutorial! (Click on any photo to enlarge)<br />
<br />
- Cut 2 lining pieces: 6 1/2" x 8 1/2"<br />
- Cut 2 solid linen pieces: 9 1/2" x 4 1/2"<br />
- Cut 2 printed cotton pieces: 9 1/2" x 3"<br />
- scrap of same printed cotton piece for the applique of the embroidered bird<br />
- <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/17338066?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222227014289699&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40940737232&wl4=pla-78877376672&wl5=9029855&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=17338066&wl13=&veh=sem" target="_blank">Heat n' Bond Lite</a> (optional) enough to applique the bird, follow directions on package<br />
- One 7" zipper (I buy these in bulk at <a href="http://zipperstop.com/">Zipperstop.com</a>)<br />
- Heavy Duty spray starch<br />
- Tear Away embroidery stabilizer of your choice<br />
- <a href="http://meringuedesigns.net/scribbled-bird" target="_blank">Scribbled Bird design</a>, use the 2x3" applique<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCFLa9YJlfJAhlIOoeObfsNLGEV8Ro7_FrcNs_QEAAgMloVj1DS4E5DbFuEWM6IDHuO35lfpH1ZBO_WkZbuLcP-1KeQTXjmBvDUdho6-M33OldTW139pFX45OaliO5cdRinjtH/s1600/6177+scribbled+bird2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCFLa9YJlfJAhlIOoeObfsNLGEV8Ro7_FrcNs_QEAAgMloVj1DS4E5DbFuEWM6IDHuO35lfpH1ZBO_WkZbuLcP-1KeQTXjmBvDUdho6-M33OldTW139pFX45OaliO5cdRinjtH/s640/6177+scribbled+bird2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG0-hgqbhL38XmUXP3rcNhcMKfUZ_KSgS8_1TsCFJ0sDonRf1MRs-MH_vXcYNPeA4UINO-3Y6j9HO_O2Ml93G5xiHqoCY8pqAItmLZ7kbDAA1ZNGrqUcb64bxvOFiitbnKp3QP/s1600/6175+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG0-hgqbhL38XmUXP3rcNhcMKfUZ_KSgS8_1TsCFJ0sDonRf1MRs-MH_vXcYNPeA4UINO-3Y6j9HO_O2Ml93G5xiHqoCY8pqAItmLZ7kbDAA1ZNGrqUcb64bxvOFiitbnKp3QP/s400/6175+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starch all fabric pieces before starting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sew each linen piece to each top piece to form the exterior of the bag. Add some tear away stabilizer to the back in preparation for machine embroidery. Place the hoop in the bottom left corner. Of course you can embroider the bird anywhere, I just like it in a corner.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQkcwOGucAh71lhHtmG5eLuusHjxeRjAAPhirgP68YR2QAfE8gmmF5R7GyKooV8JPVguK-1TjgMP3hM-MrWO5G6bDitEAYKw77MgHc5-v7PkFfJ0u_r6aQsiBg23yqC_Vd7SmB/s1600/6136+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQkcwOGucAh71lhHtmG5eLuusHjxeRjAAPhirgP68YR2QAfE8gmmF5R7GyKooV8JPVguK-1TjgMP3hM-MrWO5G6bDitEAYKw77MgHc5-v7PkFfJ0u_r6aQsiBg23yqC_Vd7SmB/s640/6136+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Attach hoop to machine, place bird in desirable location (at least an inch from each side, and stitch placement stitch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmsW8nsI6eKGyT7mqAMbsa3sbsDy7aBKlVf4t-nlML0COdSv66z6BYQl-ki-17uuJ81yYWH4HbvyU6Da8Np082wCpELTfACEfU7sKqFcLEHKm8BIJG_TK_yfdiIFnFJImavgY/s1600/6127+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmsW8nsI6eKGyT7mqAMbsa3sbsDy7aBKlVf4t-nlML0COdSv66z6BYQl-ki-17uuJ81yYWH4HbvyU6Da8Np082wCpELTfACEfU7sKqFcLEHKm8BIJG_TK_yfdiIFnFJImavgY/s640/6127+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stitch placement stitch first</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtQxckjl4PSdrB3s_Je3Cb7pt_bV3HQOWZeT6heewaPpfyxFwXLlYgEzFPmZ6MIZpOCyJnW-6IrhTH-2Jvdtta4CfQt5_LSuE0CCbJVbhLx3Yh8_jbbKWwNys7de8WXHsBSONP/s1600/6126+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtQxckjl4PSdrB3s_Je3Cb7pt_bV3HQOWZeT6heewaPpfyxFwXLlYgEzFPmZ6MIZpOCyJnW-6IrhTH-2Jvdtta4CfQt5_LSuE0CCbJVbhLx3Yh8_jbbKWwNys7de8WXHsBSONP/s640/6126+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Optional but recommended, fuse Heat n' Bond Lite to scrap for bird. Prevents puckering and fraying.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOWT_3iDhDAFu810JSpWyni7wDqNSCGmr0JxwP1esja2on3-a8OJb9fHbAhFqgpU26h_01GX3w2qR-3mjUWWjHuzR9TTILQuUvrw8C8e91iU6404VKvnUcyQ_kCsKer_BZMr2/s1600/6128+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOWT_3iDhDAFu810JSpWyni7wDqNSCGmr0JxwP1esja2on3-a8OJb9fHbAhFqgpU26h_01GX3w2qR-3mjUWWjHuzR9TTILQuUvrw8C8e91iU6404VKvnUcyQ_kCsKer_BZMr2/s640/6128+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second, place your fabric scrap over the placement stitching and stitch in place.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Remove hoop from machine and trim excess fabric from bird.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpyS5wrBCzxkb2VYxD1Cat_ILsI0LxPoiV5jg20zQRdH6VduxAteHKXg8MCl8-b3xnovTdIzUW414Gzd4QuHZ7eL6bqXMatY9Irl1yCeW1TtimI5vUB1fRpg_vsFbYXRtp8iOa/s1600/6129+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpyS5wrBCzxkb2VYxD1Cat_ILsI0LxPoiV5jg20zQRdH6VduxAteHKXg8MCl8-b3xnovTdIzUW414Gzd4QuHZ7eL6bqXMatY9Irl1yCeW1TtimI5vUB1fRpg_vsFbYXRtp8iOa/s640/6129+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcEL3eigtSElvctWgrCf4N0Pf_BBufhNph5IVELKTpOXRbVNySvq6Vx5o4Y8WTNMwIhUgHE__yWo1EEgelX5AFWYFT6cltz6ORMRoHGa9VRcnZ3yuCYQhyphenhyphenSi5BoaVZ1_R3Pnp/s1600/6133+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcEL3eigtSElvctWgrCf4N0Pf_BBufhNph5IVELKTpOXRbVNySvq6Vx5o4Y8WTNMwIhUgHE__yWo1EEgelX5AFWYFT6cltz6ORMRoHGa9VRcnZ3yuCYQhyphenhyphenSi5BoaVZ1_R3Pnp/s640/6133+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish the topstiching for the bird.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
View from back. Always tear away excess stabilizer after embroidery is done. After embroidery, trim down exterior pieces to match the size of the lining pieces, 6 1/2" x 8 1/2"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEUR6FWanHrusR_4rxsUkuTPT_fl9ANvlZ8q0DUc-P3UMeW5fQVA5SwGhLxjAEa535URaLZPQ84U3hw1syjEQeVr0BXoHsj8tqCXSuJAwaXQAfL3tQHN2hyphenhyphenriDu2XbfGpO_cqn/s1600/6170+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEUR6FWanHrusR_4rxsUkuTPT_fl9ANvlZ8q0DUc-P3UMeW5fQVA5SwGhLxjAEa535URaLZPQ84U3hw1syjEQeVr0BXoHsj8tqCXSuJAwaXQAfL3tQHN2hyphenhyphenriDu2XbfGpO_cqn/s640/6170+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Place zipper, face down onto your exterior embroidered piece of fabric.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouE_8hv1qOYuzFX3Bdw7x-gARCaqE5QlVg7sczHEK5N1RyLELf8FSJisnypHC8xw8-jM3ipBiqKhNuC1uGh1cX3hjHfwC0FsgTpI85l_qUY134pTX3CFe6CeaJ18lLbS9yaeQ/s1600/6140+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouE_8hv1qOYuzFX3Bdw7x-gARCaqE5QlVg7sczHEK5N1RyLELf8FSJisnypHC8xw8-jM3ipBiqKhNuC1uGh1cX3hjHfwC0FsgTpI85l_qUY134pTX3CFe6CeaJ18lLbS9yaeQ/s640/6140+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Place one lining piece face down onto zipper and pin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggysNg5bkCtGmI_2FocywvY-7nOE-aQJT8L25XtxMNb3wV9ZZ7lmM-No22joYmvq-BlTtnQuweVyCg2_d5mcUuPwo0Fv-AFz1HeiFj69cxrzbNf5hCV6hk9IIz6EEpN940MdBk/s1600/6139+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggysNg5bkCtGmI_2FocywvY-7nOE-aQJT8L25XtxMNb3wV9ZZ7lmM-No22joYmvq-BlTtnQuweVyCg2_d5mcUuPwo0Fv-AFz1HeiFj69cxrzbNf5hCV6hk9IIz6EEpN940MdBk/s640/6139+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Sew the exterior and lining pieces together with a regular zipper foot. Move the needle all the way to the left and use the edge of your presser foot as a guide along the edge of the zipper.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhipiRMQ8Gr8EFZzppp-LPDu376ofAzJ4iZ401HYAZPEuSMrxp84RjfvUQ6O24s4snj0JXJ5PAfFsFr8T63_qODTFunTjDqJMdZkg_o0MxASYLCyyB8ym-dxH94wsWKCz2Rh37n/s1600/6141+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhipiRMQ8Gr8EFZzppp-LPDu376ofAzJ4iZ401HYAZPEuSMrxp84RjfvUQ6O24s4snj0JXJ5PAfFsFr8T63_qODTFunTjDqJMdZkg_o0MxASYLCyyB8ym-dxH94wsWKCz2Rh37n/s640/6141+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBSrJpo5DKbkuMdJjwltObO6kB_7Xij_MZG1_RTJiggIYk5YGeTxwVVII2GIHP-BMYEWoMggvK9ZKV95T2bgQxLFpiGAjNh1VVHDQnJe7JDipox1_tBCbDj3Tg9RrKW0sEzO-/s1600/6151+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBSrJpo5DKbkuMdJjwltObO6kB_7Xij_MZG1_RTJiggIYk5YGeTxwVVII2GIHP-BMYEWoMggvK9ZKV95T2bgQxLFpiGAjNh1VVHDQnJe7JDipox1_tBCbDj3Tg9RrKW0sEzO-/s640/6151+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Needle to left, stitch length of 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This is what it looks like after sewing one exterior piece to one lining piece with the zipper.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeK1Xe-jmI-4zHpQz0xoU0F3anM4Hin31MUol2QlIFXn2Lwn_6rnlu19wsiHcj9Lp9s97BON4pUR8aqgiEeENMQyeAnNMl-kEDDEl4fuN27h1FuPFH1HRW0P_6u_8UN3KKv5NA/s1600/6142+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeK1Xe-jmI-4zHpQz0xoU0F3anM4Hin31MUol2QlIFXn2Lwn_6rnlu19wsiHcj9Lp9s97BON4pUR8aqgiEeENMQyeAnNMl-kEDDEl4fuN27h1FuPFH1HRW0P_6u_8UN3KKv5NA/s640/6142+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Place the lining and exterior pieces sewn with the zipper, wrong sides to together, as seen below.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTpfC6vJawKFI5X-ZdrxOhvOdohgBFMNrc1Smp-Iwkp-xnCzigxAKggUBGyXEPXYGDfLuwxz6t6pWmoThqXdb0AW2-9jpdgTPVY3uWzNqXxgNpekiNnPSqtQjaqFEp18ASFC5/s1600/6172+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTpfC6vJawKFI5X-ZdrxOhvOdohgBFMNrc1Smp-Iwkp-xnCzigxAKggUBGyXEPXYGDfLuwxz6t6pWmoThqXdb0AW2-9jpdgTPVY3uWzNqXxgNpekiNnPSqtQjaqFEp18ASFC5/s640/6172+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Then, following picture below, take the other lining piece and other exterior piece and "sandwich" the other side of the zipper between those two fabric pieces.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYazPgC0sK2mbvyd-TLqst9Rt6fxWoM4-fyPx_TdrwlVIlCtcOUzqgSJVZxBwpCKkhLdR2F7UlturlqcC_A2kwUdvyKM8EZ6WYt8YW08YXW-WbILRNDCYfVwSW-NHCwwvMn6g/s1600/6143+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYazPgC0sK2mbvyd-TLqst9Rt6fxWoM4-fyPx_TdrwlVIlCtcOUzqgSJVZxBwpCKkhLdR2F7UlturlqcC_A2kwUdvyKM8EZ6WYt8YW08YXW-WbILRNDCYfVwSW-NHCwwvMn6g/s640/6143+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Pin together just like you did the first time. Lining, edge of zipper tape, and exterior piece should all have edges together.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKOcU6mQzWWiAecqg5X-xo9Tc5BEwUpvPgtyk_EMEdaKvXv_Yd2FzwVterl4m1CtqVs1ly_0xG7FQis7i0X5H69BAkxs16aTZNtEt_DS2Hs3iURmYzM9CbdnLcDEXOERHTSCs/s1600/6145+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKOcU6mQzWWiAecqg5X-xo9Tc5BEwUpvPgtyk_EMEdaKvXv_Yd2FzwVterl4m1CtqVs1ly_0xG7FQis7i0X5H69BAkxs16aTZNtEt_DS2Hs3iURmYzM9CbdnLcDEXOERHTSCs/s640/6145+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Sew just like you did the first time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxOhCR1kNf__4OHY1kLEy3jaGprbLgEcLJfDz64wB6P9Bbk7ji1YzPphksLwxJ6oFxMShHwfwG5FP2kJpzNKNQBpJwrZUg5au7fFPXPHSrUZHwY7hUh5BFnYm9G7pfVSMY1dL2/s1600/6146+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxOhCR1kNf__4OHY1kLEy3jaGprbLgEcLJfDz64wB6P9Bbk7ji1YzPphksLwxJ6oFxMShHwfwG5FP2kJpzNKNQBpJwrZUg5au7fFPXPHSrUZHwY7hUh5BFnYm9G7pfVSMY1dL2/s640/6146+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This is how the bag should look now.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0ien1xHErpBohTfy8sEdgqXXbuygOj8_8uecaItwgJdBXOPZTYUrbPObTZnygvRM2-70lxDNc2r6oDEV6ROHHNfH5JVbD6K5OrC_kFOIF7f4Ctm7sPa4eE71mvCzm9yzIh0u/s1600/6147+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0ien1xHErpBohTfy8sEdgqXXbuygOj8_8uecaItwgJdBXOPZTYUrbPObTZnygvRM2-70lxDNc2r6oDEV6ROHHNfH5JVbD6K5OrC_kFOIF7f4Ctm7sPa4eE71mvCzm9yzIh0u/s640/6147+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Pulling fabric away from zipper, iron and starch.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64kfA-3jtxp3TwNpGVvzi05ywNXkEaLZ-CBrPQYoKZsnWZGp589tHzqZaKhe9b0w2eu9FKpvf3KwFPuS4QaJFvWzv3symZhHtu4-TKZT53NYG89RImy9M9lW1W2rUsJ010CwC/s1600/6149+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64kfA-3jtxp3TwNpGVvzi05ywNXkEaLZ-CBrPQYoKZsnWZGp589tHzqZaKhe9b0w2eu9FKpvf3KwFPuS4QaJFvWzv3symZhHtu4-TKZT53NYG89RImy9M9lW1W2rUsJ010CwC/s640/6149+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Make sure the lining is pulled away from the zipper as well. Iron really, really well or else it will get caught when you topstitch.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFKV8YEONb1euSL_ewvewFGAHgIpVLaOhyphenhyphenwJ6YFZArRsRZ9RpctKxoTjCDOFG3aq_Mxxr8Vl9K4aPZ-uAwuevF6xdLcXFeWtporMVfZo3seiB-SrSJ4YIces1iHQ4S-CZcNoe/s1600/6150+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFKV8YEONb1euSL_ewvewFGAHgIpVLaOhyphenhyphenwJ6YFZArRsRZ9RpctKxoTjCDOFG3aq_Mxxr8Vl9K4aPZ-uAwuevF6xdLcXFeWtporMVfZo3seiB-SrSJ4YIces1iHQ4S-CZcNoe/s640/6150+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Now you can topstitch, both sides. Use the same settings for your machine as before: needle moved all the way to the left, use the edge of the fabric as your guide, as seen below.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQox0B3uLL88CGoyIjEn_zFoTttNkCMHEwMqUdzNCeZtHNeTnOPjhabNroHvbsrehdvs8EAwd2GopHW2CoI6s38z77ba0RUCy_niJsbuZ0o7VObB9Yc_lYo4bgeO3IxhyMg7gy/s1600/6152+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQox0B3uLL88CGoyIjEn_zFoTttNkCMHEwMqUdzNCeZtHNeTnOPjhabNroHvbsrehdvs8EAwd2GopHW2CoI6s38z77ba0RUCy_niJsbuZ0o7VObB9Yc_lYo4bgeO3IxhyMg7gy/s640/6152+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This is how it looks all topstitched on the front.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsK8fE8cfhQUVJCc_hTHM9rnPeGr_kWtIDEbtMGcYtlxa06v2bmm4DEpMC5R4mu_LwyvUImRM329smuaPhiTi3AQByEuwEHXbk8N-sTjn7G3V_DMtMlYLpZrnhNrdFLuvj7NI0/s1600/6155+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsK8fE8cfhQUVJCc_hTHM9rnPeGr_kWtIDEbtMGcYtlxa06v2bmm4DEpMC5R4mu_LwyvUImRM329smuaPhiTi3AQByEuwEHXbk8N-sTjn7G3V_DMtMlYLpZrnhNrdFLuvj7NI0/s640/6155+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And from the back:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPeuzEDjxowF9vU2GQvdxG7I2spdMTo4cAvsMggzwgwb000jLIFJS3QcYQbqnLRtgQKrRN_XJcSiQtOaz1h9BowkJKCI8LVx4Eue4utPgod-lLn_yzbCk0QT39Rvz68uCybe9/s1600/6153+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPeuzEDjxowF9vU2GQvdxG7I2spdMTo4cAvsMggzwgwb000jLIFJS3QcYQbqnLRtgQKrRN_XJcSiQtOaz1h9BowkJKCI8LVx4Eue4utPgod-lLn_yzbCk0QT39Rvz68uCybe9/s640/6153+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Unzip about 3/4 of the way down.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcORJxusDw5OexkqUwZDDOvuoW00BzIYtIfg31TlcK6soaDVPWKBfQhKrzbLC7GKiPSqOkp83O91Nyqv63WcSg_GWZrJNhTiwKXaeMNjzmGkFXz99JyaisncPXJYmvo9xOfzks/s1600/6156+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcORJxusDw5OexkqUwZDDOvuoW00BzIYtIfg31TlcK6soaDVPWKBfQhKrzbLC7GKiPSqOkp83O91Nyqv63WcSg_GWZrJNhTiwKXaeMNjzmGkFXz99JyaisncPXJYmvo9xOfzks/s640/6156+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Place exterior pieces together (right sides together) and lining pieces together (right sides together.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiZlNncEw3sukhpUUekehUqIfhtpzTxGZL-db4QAC0g_YW_hMcTGI8zH8bn_GL6AANY_jsovwZMW3O4YdIiTs_PRcm-JxbmBQZH3Fkn3u0Loa8EiDlbfTiZZ1pLzkW3fgHgUq/s1600/6165+scribbled+bird2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiZlNncEw3sukhpUUekehUqIfhtpzTxGZL-db4QAC0g_YW_hMcTGI8zH8bn_GL6AANY_jsovwZMW3O4YdIiTs_PRcm-JxbmBQZH3Fkn3u0Loa8EiDlbfTiZZ1pLzkW3fgHgUq/s640/6165+scribbled+bird2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Where you see the Xs above is probably the most important part of this tutorial. The pins at the Xs have to match up perfectly, as seen in the photos below.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgDzEQcJnfYXwhpHVYe-TZ-hQ5LssQNwAuMPamMvdjW5ecG1QMMeqvdZbhFq88eLjOId2DYmA8U3be7_CreW1TNSGsEgOPk_MpGCyLmvr8iTm26e307IhvnAQtGJJcMUEEFH-d/s1600/6158+scribbled+birdb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgDzEQcJnfYXwhpHVYe-TZ-hQ5LssQNwAuMPamMvdjW5ecG1QMMeqvdZbhFq88eLjOId2DYmA8U3be7_CreW1TNSGsEgOPk_MpGCyLmvr8iTm26e307IhvnAQtGJJcMUEEFH-d/s640/6158+scribbled+birdb.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The black line marks the spot where you should pin and where you want the needle of the sewing machine to pass through.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpSrUgmY4ah0VtY8yymQeXzHjp2cnCeFM7jISZS4nWxoKDorIqtX0Tin3BN1fV38Tvbn3VPE2LtfSbOYx6sZOPq1ywLWsw7x2Js4h3yau98SXZ8DWzzFkSlSd6GZCL0-jLZGJ/s1600/6159+scribbled+bird+b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpSrUgmY4ah0VtY8yymQeXzHjp2cnCeFM7jISZS4nWxoKDorIqtX0Tin3BN1fV38Tvbn3VPE2LtfSbOYx6sZOPq1ywLWsw7x2Js4h3yau98SXZ8DWzzFkSlSd6GZCL0-jLZGJ/s640/6159+scribbled+bird+b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pin and sew through the black line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Make sure the zipper tape is going the same direction and make sure the topstitched lines match perfectly as well. You will place the pins (as seen in the Xs two photos up) at the exact spot at which you want the sewing machine needle to pass through. You want to sew far enough away from the metal of the zipper (or you'll bust your needle) yet still catch the zipper tape for a nice finished look.<br />
<br />
Sew all the way around the perimeter (leaving opening to turn) about 1/2"-3/4" seam allowance and trim corners.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh__RZU_25-4tjHwePiG-CherZG13x2Uo-KP6FhMhL3JkRAEpWDq37eZvEhxS0WDbrgFuSxp7Nz4u9Egp_Om5fG8m5lIWLM-u4nqbPhlKZkYUk_9FUBz7oqT8NlqrOLj36W2q9B/s1600/6166+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh__RZU_25-4tjHwePiG-CherZG13x2Uo-KP6FhMhL3JkRAEpWDq37eZvEhxS0WDbrgFuSxp7Nz4u9Egp_Om5fG8m5lIWLM-u4nqbPhlKZkYUk_9FUBz7oqT8NlqrOLj36W2q9B/s640/6166+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Turn bag right side out through opening in lining, tuck raw ends of lining into bag and sew shut. (Don't you love my green chipped manicure!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy6-HcQx-f9k0EoqHg8ajTK363XsFLw8QwClK9h3x5IFr7JXHjUaBG3cNc-SnIxdLZW4S43YW6Wa2pCH4gzAWRET8MzXEId0fiMF3wVikDOIy6jvSF-p6HLcBAt9fonrtiTKNM/s1600/6167+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy6-HcQx-f9k0EoqHg8ajTK363XsFLw8QwClK9h3x5IFr7JXHjUaBG3cNc-SnIxdLZW4S43YW6Wa2pCH4gzAWRET8MzXEId0fiMF3wVikDOIy6jvSF-p6HLcBAt9fonrtiTKNM/s640/6167+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Tuck lining into bag, iron, and enjoy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7g_GJ2ivJnpNtbO8Jcdl0IqC6gt5q4TzZJ77drjxmpOEr7aPQ55ACcUz3Al2BG_O7ffnUBQSYnCiEcNKdoeJY0ljmoD8ra-HlgwKlwa5mk2rGMBexRq6JX0c6o5L9Vsf-X9VF/s1600/6180+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7g_GJ2ivJnpNtbO8Jcdl0IqC6gt5q4TzZJ77drjxmpOEr7aPQ55ACcUz3Al2BG_O7ffnUBQSYnCiEcNKdoeJY0ljmoD8ra-HlgwKlwa5mk2rGMBexRq6JX0c6o5L9Vsf-X9VF/s640/6180+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAQtTsdrW6_XlRtlPODBXljuy4d8pRkBzshyphenhyphenlRUOC6mDPuImZxw0Ww5Z0L7jKvcg7Xwnle1bihD-RIQS5zeORZGUG24mGSVe9AYp34uQVM2dEsANDg1ijGuacGupuYEX-272b/s1600/6185+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAQtTsdrW6_XlRtlPODBXljuy4d8pRkBzshyphenhyphenlRUOC6mDPuImZxw0Ww5Z0L7jKvcg7Xwnle1bihD-RIQS5zeORZGUG24mGSVe9AYp34uQVM2dEsANDg1ijGuacGupuYEX-272b/s640/6185+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9wjSw-1jxE1xuF_Xzu9MioH7TQJzk7NaCXwNcDoxGK5pRQaP-ltTHecL4rlO3OJJ45kTh0l0TcKOSJCCJVt5O0vEcM02Mz-PVpoA_-naZgqMAwIsD32sKinp2CjM4euBDAnfH/s1600/6168+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9wjSw-1jxE1xuF_Xzu9MioH7TQJzk7NaCXwNcDoxGK5pRQaP-ltTHecL4rlO3OJJ45kTh0l0TcKOSJCCJVt5O0vEcM02Mz-PVpoA_-naZgqMAwIsD32sKinp2CjM4euBDAnfH/s640/6168+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bMugBJdQYu-JQTa44M9IwqWLKLsxT0KsYCSHY_GOAwzrAkcwrNd4A3SGe-B04hsIW4LsEffPS-bN8ZwJMpwpXM0SZXh0aYzrKBb20e4d8Y7NlEFRMM0rgrSDYZYaw2-Aj0vy/s1600/6179+scribbled+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bMugBJdQYu-JQTa44M9IwqWLKLsxT0KsYCSHY_GOAwzrAkcwrNd4A3SGe-B04hsIW4LsEffPS-bN8ZwJMpwpXM0SZXh0aYzrKBb20e4d8Y7NlEFRMM0rgrSDYZYaw2-Aj0vy/s640/6179+scribbled+bird.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-81235170642013726172016-07-15T18:44:00.001-06:002016-08-22T07:30:30.103-06:00Family Pictures 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I needed some new family photos of my gang before <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2016/07/my-son-missionary.html" target="_blank">Nathan left on his mission</a>. Naturally I waited till the last week before he left. I used my <a href="http://www.adorama.com/inkd750.html" target="_blank">Nikon d750</a> camera, my <a href="http://www.adorama.com/tm2470nk.html" target="_blank">Tamron 24-70mm lens</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-43-inch-Collapsible-Multi-Disc-Reflector/dp/B002ZIMEMW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468629552&sr=8-1&keywords=reflectors+for+photography" target="_blank">my reflectors</a>, and two good friends. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihFzwrEyhZD2VcVx167IGxXS-DhyphenhyphenX7Yimjr7oEiQrTEZKNLV9TUxQ3VSuTv-vGvt-bIVkBj6nxptcJhHYb29IdXq3JXQ7QTxFoWC7JtLbp7aHB_WODZgymrOKD7zjNF7iZFBG9/s1600/5348+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihFzwrEyhZD2VcVx167IGxXS-DhyphenhyphenX7Yimjr7oEiQrTEZKNLV9TUxQ3VSuTv-vGvt-bIVkBj6nxptcJhHYb29IdXq3JXQ7QTxFoWC7JtLbp7aHB_WODZgymrOKD7zjNF7iZFBG9/s640/5348+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Why are out takes my favorite?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDK9ndmXjCgQ0gy2GLkXeLOJnWb3sP__O0f4nKDGkwycEUzwb3t4s1vAVHMnSO8LGDCpJCqOZLw3huqz41nFgvHQUYNSU9kasMQ6GQqHgb-zWCW6Q5s0nksxA4auz7CJfiaDXL/s1600/5336+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDK9ndmXjCgQ0gy2GLkXeLOJnWb3sP__O0f4nKDGkwycEUzwb3t4s1vAVHMnSO8LGDCpJCqOZLw3huqz41nFgvHQUYNSU9kasMQ6GQqHgb-zWCW6Q5s0nksxA4auz7CJfiaDXL/s640/5336+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I set the camera settings where I wanted them and asked my friend Kelly to pose us and her husband Shawn to shoot away. They were amazing. I only have amazing friends though.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5_39rkVWPAxjIKFylN1B5skJ1MBUgOG0jooqwdIzTHFo1kKHfbzODOTfz7Nsm7OI1CZHyejEDAJ90zkNnFpNF6ZBsFD6VxaHOk36oNI8ygvIE0Mry_EdpfhvRBeIrPeaXIeq/s1600/5303+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5_39rkVWPAxjIKFylN1B5skJ1MBUgOG0jooqwdIzTHFo1kKHfbzODOTfz7Nsm7OI1CZHyejEDAJ90zkNnFpNF6ZBsFD6VxaHOk36oNI8ygvIE0Mry_EdpfhvRBeIrPeaXIeq/s640/5303+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We went along the trail near Utah Lake--the one in Provo that parallels the lake. It's about a mile from our house.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwEKwbxkVlrkI3Uakj1LD26grB8USRl68CpfAcK4ZB_-MtY4QwuO_LZiDqJ8YHQbka_68EhITsC2JUflEfnYRr2fXQU1ovwhJRzusUD4I4Q4rn82n9xl09z9lxNgiawUjmN1P/s1600/5433+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwEKwbxkVlrkI3Uakj1LD26grB8USRl68CpfAcK4ZB_-MtY4QwuO_LZiDqJ8YHQbka_68EhITsC2JUflEfnYRr2fXQU1ovwhJRzusUD4I4Q4rn82n9xl09z9lxNgiawUjmN1P/s640/5433+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">processed in Adobe Lightroom with my homemade preset of High Contrast Black & White</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7D2S6yZ3xoAx74NrvOnCVSp3fVI-8OHA0lp_67eSu_BL4b8inFoDWKLXacLSrjKZ5Jz8pPkENuHIL2Rz4dAAHAJxzdzDMzCii7Ahyphenhyphenwf45Gd98cTvB-7J9t8S4vBd4Bc7hwSlG/s1600/5430+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7D2S6yZ3xoAx74NrvOnCVSp3fVI-8OHA0lp_67eSu_BL4b8inFoDWKLXacLSrjKZ5Jz8pPkENuHIL2Rz4dAAHAJxzdzDMzCii7Ahyphenhyphenwf45Gd98cTvB-7J9t8S4vBd4Bc7hwSlG/s640/5430+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">processed in Adobe Lightroom with my homemade preset called Aged & Faded</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I like the above photo on my entryway table.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYs1I7WwaEPFnSv3HX_lX39sqj5vLUUnszinX0Aja-tXWNEV2dODRCEhCERAeNgOcsrdNqleI_5FgqFg5HhmNb6dX8ArfZ8pOis8lyY5CqhFDEe4fQ1puM7YRWvEYkdkYz3V8r/s1600/5673+family+photo_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYs1I7WwaEPFnSv3HX_lX39sqj5vLUUnszinX0Aja-tXWNEV2dODRCEhCERAeNgOcsrdNqleI_5FgqFg5HhmNb6dX8ArfZ8pOis8lyY5CqhFDEe4fQ1puM7YRWvEYkdkYz3V8r/s640/5673+family+photo_.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The above and below shots are not very sharp since they were shot at 1/30 second, so I couldn't print them large, but I just love how we are all posed here so 5x7 is the largest I'll print. That's the size of the above photo.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitYGNDyG-xTIlIWSmmjVR_hEaM2wXKj5iYqCgIRbDUAkFy9HkSaO9n9R9kAYrKxTqOT8KWri7OPUdiXTjs96Ln022R8mnFjZilqgBLRKS5LiJwgXqc5TFhP-dLfwofqahHBMEe/s1600/5429+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitYGNDyG-xTIlIWSmmjVR_hEaM2wXKj5iYqCgIRbDUAkFy9HkSaO9n9R9kAYrKxTqOT8KWri7OPUdiXTjs96Ln022R8mnFjZilqgBLRKS5LiJwgXqc5TFhP-dLfwofqahHBMEe/s640/5429+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">processed with regular editing "by hand"</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I processed all the photos in <a href="http://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/photography.html?promoid=NC5FRQQ5&mv=other" target="_blank">Adobe Lightroom</a>. I rarely use Photoshop anymore. Lightroom is about $70 and it's the best money ever spent no matter how basic your camera. It enables me to process photos lightning fast.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgpZA9-I8uw0X0q8Tp7dnnmco8Ehg1qIrs9UQmu1FW6rA6qa4PSRmZCeTGJnDUBWZJ57tooYBsORsS5x8zi-5oWcpI82u6J_OcH1ohbGafGoUQgnOiqS854J6GxT8WWGyaf7W/s1600/5674+family+photo_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgpZA9-I8uw0X0q8Tp7dnnmco8Ehg1qIrs9UQmu1FW6rA6qa4PSRmZCeTGJnDUBWZJ57tooYBsORsS5x8zi-5oWcpI82u6J_OcH1ohbGafGoUQgnOiqS854J6GxT8WWGyaf7W/s640/5674+family+photo_.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
f</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBR6vvf1U7hIvJ_XiXaQpgXByNkRYIdB-_B-UmGY4TvAEcZAT6IHuEklkn5evOMXLjzftMX1oRS3jdK7yfGDqn9SWfKABWO81yK9mNVpf6OvYq82xyO9ypD9jwtv0Csocz6qO/s1600/lightroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBR6vvf1U7hIvJ_XiXaQpgXByNkRYIdB-_B-UmGY4TvAEcZAT6IHuEklkn5evOMXLjzftMX1oRS3jdK7yfGDqn9SWfKABWO81yK9mNVpf6OvYq82xyO9ypD9jwtv0Csocz6qO/s640/lightroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Back to the photo shoot. The benefit of having a friend pose you is she isn't afraid to man-handle you or the kids. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOdWAT5P6apFnloyjxbsgNSK7rvjxNQbbqtDmSjuUdvlwlm4t2UQ4KXN-HCvvquBW9Wp_KoSfA39_Gr1ofsScmEYXkRsIBI5bGUeIj6ucLtUBFwRkPhhrDhaJKdMOHqlUya2u/s1600/5389+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOdWAT5P6apFnloyjxbsgNSK7rvjxNQbbqtDmSjuUdvlwlm4t2UQ4KXN-HCvvquBW9Wp_KoSfA39_Gr1ofsScmEYXkRsIBI5bGUeIj6ucLtUBFwRkPhhrDhaJKdMOHqlUya2u/s640/5389+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0Oy3i7G6nkUwmm9NyjZ1j6bd7QrZDOl3u77ZA3P9XSumhyJNHKat1AIBi9NXu3T8qea7ggl_RP9HEVRPD7B77rq6xsVz9jLV1pW768RAyXBRvI7TyavW_pwNCdOuuNfHwNNO/s1600/5388+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0Oy3i7G6nkUwmm9NyjZ1j6bd7QrZDOl3u77ZA3P9XSumhyJNHKat1AIBi9NXu3T8qea7ggl_RP9HEVRPD7B77rq6xsVz9jLV1pW768RAyXBRvI7TyavW_pwNCdOuuNfHwNNO/s640/5388+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJx-2StJtnf21K0mGnFGAc9dfk-stomu1vxu3zQSJkVlCNh4OgBICCpHmzmj767TOaGNzWlwe24e68_sOUzYSOpsvN4NLk9qgrPKltuKGqjkWCsG9AWOvgZpa0YDFdnoo1_WC/s1600/5398+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJx-2StJtnf21K0mGnFGAc9dfk-stomu1vxu3zQSJkVlCNh4OgBICCpHmzmj767TOaGNzWlwe24e68_sOUzYSOpsvN4NLk9qgrPKltuKGqjkWCsG9AWOvgZpa0YDFdnoo1_WC/s640/5398+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd0F5UT1a1B1Tq2NQL5VqYgkmoUMc5ZC6eQ9Os36nqqeyJhgjj19Tnrcvvk92ws1w2b78x559oQ5n51gGgRaLc18T6mLzNwyVerh4jHEtVJYHWWpnux_qce279NuEix9PVNQ2/s1600/5404+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd0F5UT1a1B1Tq2NQL5VqYgkmoUMc5ZC6eQ9Os36nqqeyJhgjj19Tnrcvvk92ws1w2b78x559oQ5n51gGgRaLc18T6mLzNwyVerh4jHEtVJYHWWpnux_qce279NuEix9PVNQ2/s640/5404+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We even got off the trail and did some shots in the lake grasses.....</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXS4augU1V6qcLMzelXfwRoMcW6cwprki1irrrifw0CPDdRgU-Gq4Rp7fEDdt0fbhzqT5P1Rtipc7wEZZyCQOk9ObkTKarny8rbgAgh8TyF5myL1LJlAC0pUs6xwarLyeGDDR/s1600/5442+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXS4augU1V6qcLMzelXfwRoMcW6cwprki1irrrifw0CPDdRgU-Gq4Rp7fEDdt0fbhzqT5P1Rtipc7wEZZyCQOk9ObkTKarny8rbgAgh8TyF5myL1LJlAC0pUs6xwarLyeGDDR/s640/5442+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-KRfux-uuy6kecr5VckBaUCWyownh-AMu0AwJ556WTo1471nfa3LTZ6jlc5rx9lLCU-uly9f2HokK4khYq5ea_ENrH0cHpUmStWtgHw8v16Oz0Bi7eJkiDik9hfi3YFFA2Hr/s1600/5449+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-KRfux-uuy6kecr5VckBaUCWyownh-AMu0AwJ556WTo1471nfa3LTZ6jlc5rx9lLCU-uly9f2HokK4khYq5ea_ENrH0cHpUmStWtgHw8v16Oz0Bi7eJkiDik9hfi3YFFA2Hr/s640/5449+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Don't tip over there Ilene!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJbEf9q755fltcmjVlUeNg6kxV5XwzeTj2qoBJgyTBF5F4umnMAVoTqxJHHmttetHk3NaEigiOEgwbcHW5GJV1Lz4CdVvrN4jQ8soCPHs-ZU7d-X8snn6ekS9GVvhAyDQp_T5/s1600/5507+family+picture+2016-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJbEf9q755fltcmjVlUeNg6kxV5XwzeTj2qoBJgyTBF5F4umnMAVoTqxJHHmttetHk3NaEigiOEgwbcHW5GJV1Lz4CdVvrN4jQ8soCPHs-ZU7d-X8snn6ekS9GVvhAyDQp_T5/s640/5507+family+picture+2016-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3KyYJtgUx5MnHWN1v3NbOsRvzrzT0xHJKNZRhD4JSF3gPwkySCIetqJPiVDof4LbjgQIiuHVJF_DbIoQ4oXFHkXQQCpO1gcdKIwGcrhwd63_tiZNUc8TOiN_b-3EaF3gmoGg/s1600/5507+family+picture+2016-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3KyYJtgUx5MnHWN1v3NbOsRvzrzT0xHJKNZRhD4JSF3gPwkySCIetqJPiVDof4LbjgQIiuHVJF_DbIoQ4oXFHkXQQCpO1gcdKIwGcrhwd63_tiZNUc8TOiN_b-3EaF3gmoGg/s640/5507+family+picture+2016-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sometimes the reflectors did too good of a job. Look at us squint in this one!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: left;"></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Svd8dyfAwZaR8gBdmIsnKna27jlmp_-slSpWYcdZK-OXbHtVJ5uyLb4x2Eljz4MvBbrBdWY6sFgYmWQ0uDMEeQ9_GPXfFW6sYgtEQR8De5RCG4x_0G27L4AXz06y0YbqcHyS/s1600/5498+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Svd8dyfAwZaR8gBdmIsnKna27jlmp_-slSpWYcdZK-OXbHtVJ5uyLb4x2Eljz4MvBbrBdWY6sFgYmWQ0uDMEeQ9_GPXfFW6sYgtEQR8De5RCG4x_0G27L4AXz06y0YbqcHyS/s640/5498+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Love the shots on the lake best. <span style="text-align: center;">We chose to use back lighting from the setting sun (it was 8pm by now) and use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-43-inch-Collapsible-Multi-Disc-Reflector/dp/B002ZIMEMW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468629552&sr=8-1&keywords=reflectors+for+photography" target="_blank">reflectors</a> to shine light into our faces. And because we shot at sunset, the sky was a bit washed out so I used a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n95BVyFd6M" target="_blank">graduated filter</a> in Adobe Lightroom to bring back some of the sky to blue.</span></span></div>
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBf79234lO6masjO266jvkIt9ZCXGKXE5TT9ahqjSZNrOZJQr716OmBbHApUDFU5gTjKUhvQR6yzDbYfMoHw-AGIk5mvP2lk28XCyhLlJEEfEdbKDkLsqNEzs0MEhyphenhyphenyeURkDO/s1600/5458+winwawrd+family+pic+july2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBf79234lO6masjO266jvkIt9ZCXGKXE5TT9ahqjSZNrOZJQr716OmBbHApUDFU5gTjKUhvQR6yzDbYfMoHw-AGIk5mvP2lk28XCyhLlJEEfEdbKDkLsqNEzs0MEhyphenhyphenyeURkDO/s640/5458+winwawrd+family+pic+july2016.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the shot I'm having printed 20x30 on metal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbb_d_GnS15JPQo7SNfwuQaI-zymnaxdnzFiuIp26QPAkK29UmOJt1bsSdyLEqG48n31UBcUNj1Ei2gGWirOHU6sXZKBgjzqJf4rb2bf4_9H5xA3ktv1QqNjOtafXRMOmobSq/s1600/5452+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbb_d_GnS15JPQo7SNfwuQaI-zymnaxdnzFiuIp26QPAkK29UmOJt1bsSdyLEqG48n31UBcUNj1Ei2gGWirOHU6sXZKBgjzqJf4rb2bf4_9H5xA3ktv1QqNjOtafXRMOmobSq/s640/5452+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sunset on Utah Lake made me feel so glamorous.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Love how it turned out! <a href="http://www.adoramapix.com/app/products/prints/" target="_blank">Printed at AdoramaPix.com</a>. It is 20x30 printed in Lustre White on metal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJ1awoND9s8rW6q49L7tAnuBdKkvwh_6VA3jc_Hj8W1hkmOCySPrc7z6hjKClzB0wG5-FUmvuyQN425ba7mnsr5lQIm4s0KlsYtAxWhZTZtPETs_Sq2N-fyC2A5WmQFMbzpKB/s1600/6122+family+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJ1awoND9s8rW6q49L7tAnuBdKkvwh_6VA3jc_Hj8W1hkmOCySPrc7z6hjKClzB0wG5-FUmvuyQN425ba7mnsr5lQIm4s0KlsYtAxWhZTZtPETs_Sq2N-fyC2A5WmQFMbzpKB/s640/6122+family+photo.jpg" width="460" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidblNKmiKCHPCR-__pYz15L7Eu5sJhTie0vJf9Phh8rmU7AMKjTz1aS2RZJqBKCXw8HaLHM_ADlEN_D0IrTn8D_xAGp84LmJRVS7Om_lbiJWhJJPiVi5uxETskO-GkAXOfPr5Y/s1600/5453+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidblNKmiKCHPCR-__pYz15L7Eu5sJhTie0vJf9Phh8rmU7AMKjTz1aS2RZJqBKCXw8HaLHM_ADlEN_D0IrTn8D_xAGp84LmJRVS7Om_lbiJWhJJPiVi5uxETskO-GkAXOfPr5Y/s640/5453+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Pretty sure a bug was crawling up Nathan's leg here. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mt. Timpanogos in the background, Utah Lake on the left, and a beautiful sky. Yum.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKEaCnYSYIzJgK5ZNsmrpGe5ikYp6Zmrv2f89DlGLc3wqBsQvPoeaNSLlCfKQk4grOspJtd1gKql8KCh5wTt2jcm29RPdFcfB0cKo0Mb8GTnD_mfW-A1USbKbu7VFdVZy4Oueg/s1600/5485+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKEaCnYSYIzJgK5ZNsmrpGe5ikYp6Zmrv2f89DlGLc3wqBsQvPoeaNSLlCfKQk4grOspJtd1gKql8KCh5wTt2jcm29RPdFcfB0cKo0Mb8GTnD_mfW-A1USbKbu7VFdVZy4Oueg/s640/5485+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My favorite of just the kids.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJcCavddU49l5IWZi8856CPF8K3Nyk1vopiUBEDAyvInjgwt8t1O5cqDEK5i_tLgTA65Or43T7d7fVvg9WBROe-x95ys4VGepzK0-Z3SSVnSsl6qznabfkpg9yejgI7OOCIHiQ/s1600/5537+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJcCavddU49l5IWZi8856CPF8K3Nyk1vopiUBEDAyvInjgwt8t1O5cqDEK5i_tLgTA65Or43T7d7fVvg9WBROe-x95ys4VGepzK0-Z3SSVnSsl6qznabfkpg9yejgI7OOCIHiQ/s640/5537+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That's a wrap. We should be good on family photos until Nathan gets back from the Dominican Republic in two years. Phew!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyslMShELPc8hweAcErQ_u6QHWXAI-TeA4GqEtQ3JasCqDQBbNa4oTvfHGPoSCZde0pA0szx2slBTXVukGQtiJ1jGW4hnWIex_fePpga0FzXmBprGMpueRVrRziLPctFg-gvi8/s1600/5304+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyslMShELPc8hweAcErQ_u6QHWXAI-TeA4GqEtQ3JasCqDQBbNa4oTvfHGPoSCZde0pA0szx2slBTXVukGQtiJ1jGW4hnWIex_fePpga0FzXmBprGMpueRVrRziLPctFg-gvi8/s640/5304+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjobLCY_Rf_YFNV4z-ldtFvcjRXrH__7A27-aUOak7GMFHMPiw7YooTJvJlOpUc9SO8kMEW2YI0Vhkqgi2SBXgZyqmC9R_blX_jCi6u88e4HAePgKmc6ZaCDiAwonv6-J226na4/s1600/5308+family+picture+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjobLCY_Rf_YFNV4z-ldtFvcjRXrH__7A27-aUOak7GMFHMPiw7YooTJvJlOpUc9SO8kMEW2YI0Vhkqgi2SBXgZyqmC9R_blX_jCi6u88e4HAePgKmc6ZaCDiAwonv6-J226na4/s640/5308+family+picture+2016.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</div>
Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-29925570921082490282016-07-15T09:57:00.004-06:002016-08-10T09:51:25.450-06:00My Son the Missionary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
My son Nathan left this week on July 12, 2016 to serve a mission for <a href="https://www.mormon.org/" target="_blank">our church</a> in the Dominican Republic Santiago mission. He will be gone for two years. I miss him already. Their is definitely a loss in our home without him here. He's lived here 18 years, how could there not be a loss?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavJmtQJ_P6PanRhgkRysc8mWdlGh5KTYONwyS52zlw-VyU-AwZS3bexGY_698FVrBhVGiAox4Ouv0tzHvoolWJWh1NW4UlhPDjZo8GJa4K_t4D8M1rM64-owcP9atVvyyjXhN/s1600/1908+at+home+portraits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavJmtQJ_P6PanRhgkRysc8mWdlGh5KTYONwyS52zlw-VyU-AwZS3bexGY_698FVrBhVGiAox4Ouv0tzHvoolWJWh1NW4UlhPDjZo8GJa4K_t4D8M1rM64-owcP9atVvyyjXhN/s640/1908+at+home+portraits.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br />
Just last week he was my tiny little buddy. Or at least it seems like last week.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3b1kt1vKJnVwQg7FvLchG8DfhgpeJXdgDZqoBM0PAf-JBhQ0WUT3JV-4sLvTr4npwCzjb288VIcXU6LS_pP9zzzUkc9svKXP5Tm5syN1wnMphB4pXoZIdVcYrw6q-36hSM2q/s1600/mvc-006s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3b1kt1vKJnVwQg7FvLchG8DfhgpeJXdgDZqoBM0PAf-JBhQ0WUT3JV-4sLvTr4npwCzjb288VIcXU6LS_pP9zzzUkc9svKXP5Tm5syN1wnMphB4pXoZIdVcYrw6q-36hSM2q/s640/mvc-006s.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nathan and me, 2001, Love his Chevron cars in the back, he loved collecting those.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Getting a missionary ready to leave the country for two years is a butt-load of work. Vaccines, passport, Visa application (the worst chore of them all), all the missionary clothes, contact lenses for two years, the list goes on.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDomQancDBjSBXoq4FPI8b2xiFVqfDPINs-et1emhXGo2ST76KiNlxq1EtsYfSyYUaRFyeHwPZgbag2489DP9vf214fCdIjePSYNDBXJn-LnqnbfDIjRtdcUgZv6kDHiWNDJL/s1600/27665841284_9190068e5a_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDomQancDBjSBXoq4FPI8b2xiFVqfDPINs-et1emhXGo2ST76KiNlxq1EtsYfSyYUaRFyeHwPZgbag2489DP9vf214fCdIjePSYNDBXJn-LnqnbfDIjRtdcUgZv6kDHiWNDJL/s640/27665841284_9190068e5a_o.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two years of daily contact lenses!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGKPhUcwLAR1FvO74HveUridA36Dugwmy3nS-B_jj0Y7ovhD0eIpPeNX2mK-cIqKjqmqLjRPMFcaaRrZ_kx9xLVYcDUpmfrfmGGLhOrM3elWnjIW6LUahGCVFl49a_I0__eHI/s1600/28000226770_eb1c92e9ac_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGKPhUcwLAR1FvO74HveUridA36Dugwmy3nS-B_jj0Y7ovhD0eIpPeNX2mK-cIqKjqmqLjRPMFcaaRrZ_kx9xLVYcDUpmfrfmGGLhOrM3elWnjIW6LUahGCVFl49a_I0__eHI/s640/28000226770_eb1c92e9ac_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul helped him pack for the 2-year mission. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We tried to do a lot of "last chance to eat (blank) for two years". Last chance to have sushi, last chance to have chicken kurma, last night to have tacos, last breakfast of blueberry pancakes. I just wanted him to feel as special as possible before he left. That's what moms do. We use food to make our kids feel special. Or at least that's what I do. I did play ping pong with him before he left but I'm lousy at that. I'm better at cooking.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPOTUiIexDeIaf4jlQui4My9xdKEElHlktqIooG_16SUe-7IUu0tIAtJqM697SBOaWyIGyLRVfCXVTM3m1lfw1VP87mh7rR0VX3QhdYpiCmaQ2CKRaEsZQmwtKd3l6h9LoWhR/s1600/27666111154_5eea2e456b_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPOTUiIexDeIaf4jlQui4My9xdKEElHlktqIooG_16SUe-7IUu0tIAtJqM697SBOaWyIGyLRVfCXVTM3m1lfw1VP87mh7rR0VX3QhdYpiCmaQ2CKRaEsZQmwtKd3l6h9LoWhR/s640/27666111154_5eea2e456b_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nathan has loved the chicken kurma at Bombay House in Provo for many years.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwZPfW0qekjs0MJyr076fnEqWg5OsUGJOuOzJ6ipnxHTqu-V6nsxPvSFB-YMV3YRdUq54519NNnmtV6AdQzF-jslC2vp3l7xl_GQu4yI0t-6pJnmlglwJUTRm0KzAJlqgv_WW/s1600/28281848215_f55076446b_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwZPfW0qekjs0MJyr076fnEqWg5OsUGJOuOzJ6ipnxHTqu-V6nsxPvSFB-YMV3YRdUq54519NNnmtV6AdQzF-jslC2vp3l7xl_GQu4yI0t-6pJnmlglwJUTRm0KzAJlqgv_WW/s640/28281848215_f55076446b_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A day in Salt Lake, eating lunch 10-stories up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhve6Fk5mQee1PSxD3X-scUBlBCiHwfu0oe_QikdpVUx5OYvy7jnpTbwS7zOcRGy8ehjlr9i6CtEUBXIIzuP_mFiyG78RGKmUx1s6Ss6cuWOFYHVhBKfGmHb1Kpoe-3ZXRFRuRT/s1600/27666515333_1ffe68bdb8_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhve6Fk5mQee1PSxD3X-scUBlBCiHwfu0oe_QikdpVUx5OYvy7jnpTbwS7zOcRGy8ehjlr9i6CtEUBXIIzuP_mFiyG78RGKmUx1s6Ss6cuWOFYHVhBKfGmHb1Kpoe-3ZXRFRuRT/s640/27666515333_1ffe68bdb8_o.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sushi lunch with me at Shoga in Orem</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The last weekend before we left we had a backyard party for him. I made four different sheet cakes--red velvet, raspberry cream cheese, chocolate mint, and lemon. Who doesn't love a party with lots of cake?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiXByD8dNIe3PA0Un0pcgcEpNGIh0iK_TVe4eP2OXuVvsmeuWqOQe0UyOgM4ah3QZ3A2t6P3RXqJZByOtbGjgF-MHUva3_IbLyjfDFjDeWJSe1Ru4tLqII7xFRkx_ih13aiutE/s1600/0801+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiXByD8dNIe3PA0Un0pcgcEpNGIh0iK_TVe4eP2OXuVvsmeuWqOQe0UyOgM4ah3QZ3A2t6P3RXqJZByOtbGjgF-MHUva3_IbLyjfDFjDeWJSe1Ru4tLqII7xFRkx_ih13aiutE/s640/0801+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a beautiful (but hot!) summer night. Loads of fun, such a celebration.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyOZqCwyY901bVYJDuv1eDzOjQZTO1b_KqnHDM5RPkA1Wp2FgJeqXg0KqYUcfGMhs6U4kctULhYyw0W7e-waPe5gdWNuDAOnxjL5x_2NRRkJ9KsEwXuDB3h4VmAl6xzWaVMqZH/s1600/0756+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyOZqCwyY901bVYJDuv1eDzOjQZTO1b_KqnHDM5RPkA1Wp2FgJeqXg0KqYUcfGMhs6U4kctULhYyw0W7e-waPe5gdWNuDAOnxjL5x_2NRRkJ9KsEwXuDB3h4VmAl6xzWaVMqZH/s640/0756+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeIFiDvUkWajfxwRus2j5NGP_EqqQMZM05cjI8oP9JQYDp90-SAd4I2NeM_R4Bl9drxNrxOurCkwW3tHElH_9LruuvkrVk1D3nU6dRLT1fGVDMGoskzO4xO5g_JYpuwEI09gPL/s1600/0790+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeIFiDvUkWajfxwRus2j5NGP_EqqQMZM05cjI8oP9JQYDp90-SAd4I2NeM_R4Bl9drxNrxOurCkwW3tHElH_9LruuvkrVk1D3nU6dRLT1fGVDMGoskzO4xO5g_JYpuwEI09gPL/s640/0790+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such a happy night.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXxZbxg4sHYRA5bIxZGLLnuOAM94peXCFeyhZ-b100h7hGqBK9LRQWLwW_UxEFFG5EPBwpnjbR7VdKGF6e8A8RF6sdSe2dfnzlAmFi95kaBiUeTHmMYVCc0G09lnalhwxEPqRS/s1600/0786+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXxZbxg4sHYRA5bIxZGLLnuOAM94peXCFeyhZ-b100h7hGqBK9LRQWLwW_UxEFFG5EPBwpnjbR7VdKGF6e8A8RF6sdSe2dfnzlAmFi95kaBiUeTHmMYVCc0G09lnalhwxEPqRS/s640/0786+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nathan has such a great group of friends. Such fine young men.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsdH50lcsi9UiYBh4E_UdVAl_b7LYS0EWeDL3ym0n7SjttmJvk4aIE6sizA6JJKhNmgD5WDl8ENcHs6BpJ0eixCl1TpBiYMU-b1gyzGXS5feZ0Xt9_CEIHBEiOEhJ_GnBPcbo1/s1600/0746+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsdH50lcsi9UiYBh4E_UdVAl_b7LYS0EWeDL3ym0n7SjttmJvk4aIE6sizA6JJKhNmgD5WDl8ENcHs6BpJ0eixCl1TpBiYMU-b1gyzGXS5feZ0Xt9_CEIHBEiOEhJ_GnBPcbo1/s640/0746+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my mom, Nathan's Abuelita, She was a big help for the party!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPotkRABtZmccgZVOe03jo3PbKD8x1_0wumCahc5je88zoFzVecFw4YZ1fRj4ZKC7uj7lGF38JeKmZPGZRTtb7_ftNMbIBSq-vu4xB_6XJLau3K118OxTO7IvsJyeB0ed9BInF/s1600/0831+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPotkRABtZmccgZVOe03jo3PbKD8x1_0wumCahc5je88zoFzVecFw4YZ1fRj4ZKC7uj7lGF38JeKmZPGZRTtb7_ftNMbIBSq-vu4xB_6XJLau3K118OxTO7IvsJyeB0ed9BInF/s640/0831+nathan+farewell+party.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Finally it was time to say goodbye. Hardest day but also a happy day. He had a midnight flight to New York, and then on to the Dominican Republic MTC (Missionary Training Center). We drove him to the airport and said our goodbyes. I thought my heart would break. Actually I think it did a little.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuc99murrl1l4xdyhAJ-Tsi_pWh144FgVGA2xZPkZW2yKnFm6pwA0HD_EQyTtJPrgM3KqetdlSV9OZa2LwDnprNAT15evFqxCJpRtMR8vGaryTK2pCt_qvFTvNhzemhzdAJU6/s1600/28203282211_a8d4b09dc7_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuc99murrl1l4xdyhAJ-Tsi_pWh144FgVGA2xZPkZW2yKnFm6pwA0HD_EQyTtJPrgM3KqetdlSV9OZa2LwDnprNAT15evFqxCJpRtMR8vGaryTK2pCt_qvFTvNhzemhzdAJU6/s640/28203282211_a8d4b09dc7_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmr55G-6FpIyIEexOqBEfhDn3XKiLy1pQCWmEcHL-qFX_QiGnpQ0fOAssNjo6ILa8f6B7CEqh_ViPuMnmWhyphenhyphenea86yTbcR-1S-kG-UNjskSE2ZzZMaEhJiOd6DYGz-38UMz3fzq/s1600/28281643335_6d52d1f80d_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmr55G-6FpIyIEexOqBEfhDn3XKiLy1pQCWmEcHL-qFX_QiGnpQ0fOAssNjo6ILa8f6B7CEqh_ViPuMnmWhyphenhyphenea86yTbcR-1S-kG-UNjskSE2ZzZMaEhJiOd6DYGz-38UMz3fzq/s640/28281643335_6d52d1f80d_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Killing time, being silly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn28j13JiAeKQDfe-0w_AV20IkVCIA0s-JJbQ7Xh5nuMm8jTIUUYXXgf4sI4_0aaHIrGygp6ifZd5mU8DqKQhoEXom3hwRn4X8mxtWc0WMIoXT4mDrFJTDTswpB6yWX6AYRNmA/s1600/28177703122_d42361300f_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn28j13JiAeKQDfe-0w_AV20IkVCIA0s-JJbQ7Xh5nuMm8jTIUUYXXgf4sI4_0aaHIrGygp6ifZd5mU8DqKQhoEXom3hwRn4X8mxtWc0WMIoXT4mDrFJTDTswpB6yWX6AYRNmA/s640/28177703122_d42361300f_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Farewell to my wonderful son. He is delaying college at BYU for two years. He is that kind of amazing young man. Eager to serve the Lord. I'll miss him but know he is where he should be.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzn_pCvihZdLaG7BdbKAKnf7KeSnqG1gLANdQItEIj_jmdnTIsbgIc5_3WYwNrgGdHAG4PftgYKV9zEjG4O1rjya_OWphvQH86BVqpMsHCNUv6DB-xAqmvIqFEQrHscrndRV7q/s1600/28000192800_cf19076540_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzn_pCvihZdLaG7BdbKAKnf7KeSnqG1gLANdQItEIj_jmdnTIsbgIc5_3WYwNrgGdHAG4PftgYKV9zEjG4O1rjya_OWphvQH86BVqpMsHCNUv6DB-xAqmvIqFEQrHscrndRV7q/s640/28000192800_cf19076540_o.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-76901441792339289392016-03-30T16:59:00.001-06:002016-04-07T06:21:26.644-06:00Quick Cinnamon BunsI have loved this quick cinnamon roll recipe for a good 10 years now. It is from the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/New-Best-Recipe-Cooks-Illustrated/dp/0936184744/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459377005&sr=8-1&keywords=the+new+best+recipe" target="_blank">The New Best Recipe </a>but I have also seen it on the <a href="http://www.cooksillustrated.com/recipes/220-quick-cinnamon-buns-with-buttermilk-icing?ref=new_search_experience_1&incode=MCSCD00L0" target="_blank">Cooks Illustrated website</a>. I can't believe that the cinnamon roll gods can be cheated with this fast recipe. No yeast, no rising, no delay to cinnamon roll happiness. Give yourself 45 minutes, start to finish, to get these made and baked. I would say the texture of these buns are a cross between a muffin and a biscuit. So good.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXrHLAylP4xGxZbZ-b1Jo1rLF7eLjrG8EFeEi1rqCaxOLO36XEQ6CiZlpDd47LhYjE2rcL7LUaAPypU1odIYivQiCjRniFj1y27aw3cZTOOL1Ezf89WNzMsj-md2Zuaj9qhY4M/s1600/D75_2632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXrHLAylP4xGxZbZ-b1Jo1rLF7eLjrG8EFeEi1rqCaxOLO36XEQ6CiZlpDd47LhYjE2rcL7LUaAPypU1odIYivQiCjRniFj1y27aw3cZTOOL1Ezf89WNzMsj-md2Zuaj9qhY4M/s640/D75_2632.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My family of five can devour all 8 in one sitting so I made these last night and again today. My high school kiddos run track so they eat a lot these days! Especially my son Nathan who is 18. He ate 2 or 3 last night!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7cVAPS_461-KNnatpauOmwzZ0n2K2DxeDv0MWvE29Ql918GYP6YsxmecDRXGsW4y329PAc03bVxw0Ba2LSfq7F5Y3r-fDaYOWZE4WUztudikKw1usQ-CgcFr0fi6uHxeHaLQ/s1600/2613+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7cVAPS_461-KNnatpauOmwzZ0n2K2DxeDv0MWvE29Ql918GYP6YsxmecDRXGsW4y329PAc03bVxw0Ba2LSfq7F5Y3r-fDaYOWZE4WUztudikKw1usQ-CgcFr0fi6uHxeHaLQ/s640/2613+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They are similar to these canned cinnamon rolls but a thousand times better. Okay I've never actually tasted these, just assuming that homemade is always better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0R8Sn28z9u_lfj0SGuARCQanoWflSe64Jm-hdlAKMHT3XvkYSrZmpbOBdn7wvNqBEF5rtm_WsQ_n21uVN4apjb8fOPTrXTLVrTRfm7WVHBOje3H0HHlRf9d05wvIRKck5KwZL/s1600/pillsbury+grand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0R8Sn28z9u_lfj0SGuARCQanoWflSe64Jm-hdlAKMHT3XvkYSrZmpbOBdn7wvNqBEF5rtm_WsQ_n21uVN4apjb8fOPTrXTLVrTRfm7WVHBOje3H0HHlRf9d05wvIRKck5KwZL/s640/pillsbury+grand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You start out by making the biscuit dough. Once stirred together you'll knead it a few times on the counter and then pat it out to a 9"x12" rectangle. I always keep a ruler in my baking drawer for this sort of thing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwjEEGf7iwue9vSrXEvV8GU2jaQddtSNN6hNrBRlw2S0GcD-fARAbPIev3k2J9nxnBDEZBqF_0AdH4xVMP9A_y1tuGrUho2Ucvkiyp3KwR1K6JBwNfUEET4VQ9oMBfEKYOWn2/s1600/2577+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwjEEGf7iwue9vSrXEvV8GU2jaQddtSNN6hNrBRlw2S0GcD-fARAbPIev3k2J9nxnBDEZBqF_0AdH4xVMP9A_y1tuGrUho2Ucvkiyp3KwR1K6JBwNfUEET4VQ9oMBfEKYOWn2/s640/2577+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Wr6VAO_nfrJeWVk16nDhdub0uEVnumM4i_enPJuhgfMBmACc-bwGm7FsiOKn6wQdQPq8Nv8dDlXjVuueJ1ZwV9Cc859Ptc7SriTWU8L9poP4yGAxRQEqNrhI99Y0V0fDrIdD/s1600/2580+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Wr6VAO_nfrJeWVk16nDhdub0uEVnumM4i_enPJuhgfMBmACc-bwGm7FsiOKn6wQdQPq8Nv8dDlXjVuueJ1ZwV9Cc859Ptc7SriTWU8L9poP4yGAxRQEqNrhI99Y0V0fDrIdD/s640/2580+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85wsyeJudCQ8ceaJ_NaNxllwxoDnZTIXCef0gUTWKf-z3ZGLbODYMqhpclxuCr4GFOE_0fBw-29IZtXzy_M8qI4SXR2Iku_dU_7ZKsCWQvbxqcXXyUPMf9QuTm1Ig9JRzFkSU/s1600/2587+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85wsyeJudCQ8ceaJ_NaNxllwxoDnZTIXCef0gUTWKf-z3ZGLbODYMqhpclxuCr4GFOE_0fBw-29IZtXzy_M8qI4SXR2Iku_dU_7ZKsCWQvbxqcXXyUPMf9QuTm1Ig9JRzFkSU/s640/2587+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtW3XathtgtUVWEysL4tl4D2nivHIY3l3XsIwwHWe-OSpyr7KoOXlsW-4DO7orwtQjpthrdCFEkVx6MYMJ6j23n72fvyiRLrkfwNm-5AfuVQ1XBKMENx9SuYrBwrWDJFTiLPi/s1600/2588+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtW3XathtgtUVWEysL4tl4D2nivHIY3l3XsIwwHWe-OSpyr7KoOXlsW-4DO7orwtQjpthrdCFEkVx6MYMJ6j23n72fvyiRLrkfwNm-5AfuVQ1XBKMENx9SuYrBwrWDJFTiLPi/s640/2588+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dump the cinnamon sugar mixture on the dough and press firmly into dough. I love this part--you really smell that scant 1/8 teaspoon of cloves in the mix. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtFcBTjvjC1Uoy5HMn0ABrzYzTFm-v-523a0cXIDn2rmMSx9LzjJ9WfdcOwKhG8tU202l3-MSN902i-UDHpgM5DhhcwNns4nxttAxVJy3nmR6vGpkMLFm0NMWQIFFuLgfdU2W_/s1600/2593+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtFcBTjvjC1Uoy5HMn0ABrzYzTFm-v-523a0cXIDn2rmMSx9LzjJ9WfdcOwKhG8tU202l3-MSN902i-UDHpgM5DhhcwNns4nxttAxVJy3nmR6vGpkMLFm0NMWQIFFuLgfdU2W_/s640/2593+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqD-yy67Ed3NQ-UCt0TdqkkdzsvW4Pay2vZbk0YI48gRvECWlay_KhtzOVs1jREg8wMdchfTvGYjiIwaRQw4QrVHRE_AJqrn_qndZlpJ3KTL2HGMAlXOLDiJtFSnP5mCR5Z502/s1600/2596+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqD-yy67Ed3NQ-UCt0TdqkkdzsvW4Pay2vZbk0YI48gRvECWlay_KhtzOVs1jREg8wMdchfTvGYjiIwaRQw4QrVHRE_AJqrn_qndZlpJ3KTL2HGMAlXOLDiJtFSnP5mCR5Z502/s640/2596+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is kind of sticky so you'll want to use a bench scraper or a spatula to help you scrape and roll the dough. Flouring the counter does help but the dough is really tender unlike a yeast dough that is stronger.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcn44vmIhi9VkjcbYquTPti180kl1a1EbCsVUAeE9ALBP7qTGZBtgQOLqjPXHYcTTTzYUce6wseXosn9WWQwU11mt-mu8e11PyFuBbhg2IXYQVNvylGuuCx8XHE5fGEVdELpb/s1600/2598+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcn44vmIhi9VkjcbYquTPti180kl1a1EbCsVUAeE9ALBP7qTGZBtgQOLqjPXHYcTTTzYUce6wseXosn9WWQwU11mt-mu8e11PyFuBbhg2IXYQVNvylGuuCx8XHE5fGEVdELpb/s640/2598+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Use plain (not mint!) dental floss and cut up the dough into eight pieces. First cut in half, then cut each half in half to have 4 pieces. Then cut those 4 pieces in half again to have 8 uniformly sized rolls. I keep dental floss in my baking drawer as well. My motto is to always be prepared to make cinnamon rolls. You can use a serrated knife if you want to but floss works way better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgim_R_CC5znYAIjOGbOnAyf6nhJwLaZwzXCEppjbbBSdwlBi1WRVhGJUPl6zKn4X-rJ9o0oRdmp6t_z0e5RA-aLY_lLvuIloy4zM6QXXb2MJuemYx1Pu7zc6VIwNu5mTnXjH-l/s1600/2606+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgim_R_CC5znYAIjOGbOnAyf6nhJwLaZwzXCEppjbbBSdwlBi1WRVhGJUPl6zKn4X-rJ9o0oRdmp6t_z0e5RA-aLY_lLvuIloy4zM6QXXb2MJuemYx1Pu7zc6VIwNu5mTnXjH-l/s640/2606+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTftSEVBz3DtdxJy_1cHHrk4rm0Tgfjd64ZnwIGRoIEi6K92-UlJhgKqy5-mCddxpwBhAvqN28wmf_q_Ofba6WcgXL0lh4KAJ3FC8I0QLn6Vu0vfPep3Y1Li_0nnVHdDR0RnvH/s1600/2610+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTftSEVBz3DtdxJy_1cHHrk4rm0Tgfjd64ZnwIGRoIEi6K92-UlJhgKqy5-mCddxpwBhAvqN28wmf_q_Ofba6WcgXL0lh4KAJ3FC8I0QLn6Vu0vfPep3Y1Li_0nnVHdDR0RnvH/s640/2610+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Place in buttered pan and bake. Drizzle with icing and eat while warm.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3mWZj8V5eW-k7Q3C__y7LlhbsHv75neypG7ouvCLV3P-bdC3fsiFcr-hI4kqnS9FEtj1b4xdIEGGkRTJZ5vTQgzkGH2tIwpOigDeVXm4Ph0-Lo19PCsd6BBvOu00slA0qngh/s1600/2611+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3mWZj8V5eW-k7Q3C__y7LlhbsHv75neypG7ouvCLV3P-bdC3fsiFcr-hI4kqnS9FEtj1b4xdIEGGkRTJZ5vTQgzkGH2tIwpOigDeVXm4Ph0-Lo19PCsd6BBvOu00slA0qngh/s640/2611+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70XsNslEZScgkdoFp6iCQpPNQre5Ad-GhkVUZelnAxZOwhrrSfKNzTmRC-tC2Bnfe-eW0e3zbJPs7sKYzUt_Fva5pEo5j3uvOwgerstHd2Mp7Hz6Gjys4rZQfo7-ZjriziahE/s1600/2614+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70XsNslEZScgkdoFp6iCQpPNQre5Ad-GhkVUZelnAxZOwhrrSfKNzTmRC-tC2Bnfe-eW0e3zbJPs7sKYzUt_Fva5pEo5j3uvOwgerstHd2Mp7Hz6Gjys4rZQfo7-ZjriziahE/s640/2614+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5r0FQD2GwhynSRZGdYPvvj2XDMetBzD3J8c0u37gOqEyP87aw2s0oWCGakMkZdyhZLE5UTQCV2BONlIWsZR5Q_DnQay2G4l0tQ-tgPtv1ybyBU4xQeg21fbs-nv2L2yOK5Bxz/s1600/2620+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5r0FQD2GwhynSRZGdYPvvj2XDMetBzD3J8c0u37gOqEyP87aw2s0oWCGakMkZdyhZLE5UTQCV2BONlIWsZR5Q_DnQay2G4l0tQ-tgPtv1ybyBU4xQeg21fbs-nv2L2yOK5Bxz/s640/2620+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicqmHbxUr91Y1QSAThXAZn9wbZ1Oum8NQ1k3a-_x9OPMPkUuJxOSTlcqckvee8Ji6pk7Y8t2oHV9ahwe4jyAI8RrN7kB908DxFheLOCjuxyPXCl5c9c_JYrZB1g0WhFsxmf0H2/s1600/2622+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicqmHbxUr91Y1QSAThXAZn9wbZ1Oum8NQ1k3a-_x9OPMPkUuJxOSTlcqckvee8Ji6pk7Y8t2oHV9ahwe4jyAI8RrN7kB908DxFheLOCjuxyPXCl5c9c_JYrZB1g0WhFsxmf0H2/s640/2622+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNnMF9mVMEhsoOz6RK80T4LFhLSyhYf1gR-pVmh5xiuh6dOt5hHfof3WD0SgzXgGNwWOkmJOHkD6OwscjSDnwqANzs4CBaNdZ6K79D3heCxSiFfSAfWh_B-VcshkAfCt14yKq/s1600/2623+cinnamon+buns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNnMF9mVMEhsoOz6RK80T4LFhLSyhYf1gR-pVmh5xiuh6dOt5hHfof3WD0SgzXgGNwWOkmJOHkD6OwscjSDnwqANzs4CBaNdZ6K79D3heCxSiFfSAfWh_B-VcshkAfCt14yKq/s640/2623+cinnamon+buns.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/view.php?id=7990634&da=y" target="_blank">PRINTABLE RECIPE CLICK HERE</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>QUICK CINNAMON BUNS</u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Melt one stick of butter and then
just measure out what you need for each step. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">CINNAMON-SUGAR
FILLING<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">¾
cup dark brown sugar (packed, 5 ¼ ounces)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">¼
cup granulated sugar (1 ¾ ounces)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2
teaspoons ground cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">⅛
teaspoon ground cloves<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">⅛
teaspoon table salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1
tablespoon unsalted butter, melted<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">BISCUIT
DOUGH<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2
½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour (12 ½ ounces), plus additional flour for
work surface<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2
tablespoons granulated sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1
¼ teaspoons baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">½
teaspoon baking soda<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">½
teaspoon table salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1
¼ cups buttermilk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6
tablespoons unsalted butter, melted<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ICING<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2
T. cream cheese, softened OR 2 T. sour cream can be substituted<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2
T. buttermilk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1
cup powdered sugar</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">INSTRUCTIONS
<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1.
Adjust oven rack to upper-middle position and heat oven to 425 degrees. Pour 1
tablespoon melted butter in 9-inch nonstick cake pan or comparable oval pan;
brush to coat pan. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2.
To make cinnamon-sugar filling: Combine sugars, spices, and salt in small bowl.
Add 1 tablespoon melted butter and stir with fork or fingers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3.
To make biscuit dough: Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt
in large bowl. Whisk buttermilk and 2 tablespoons melted butter in measuring
cup or small bowl. Add liquid to dry ingredients and stir with wooden spoon
until liquid is absorbed (dough will look very shaggy), about 30 seconds.
Transfer dough to lightly floured work surface and knead until just smooth and
no longer shaggy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">4.
Pat dough with hands into 12 by 9-inch rectangle. Brush dough with 2
Tablespoons melted butter. Dump sugar mixture onto dough and press into dough. Cut
with dental floss into 8 rolls, and arrange buns in buttered cake pan. Brush
with 2 tablespoons remaining melted butter. Bake until edges are golden brown,
23 to 25 minutes. Use offset metal spatula to loosen buns from pan; without
separating, slide buns out of pan onto greased cooling rack. Cool about 5
minutes before icing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5.
To make icing and finish buns: While buns are cooling, line rimmed baking sheet
with parchment paper (for easy cleanup); set rack with buns over baking sheet.
Whisk cream cheese and buttermilk bowl until thick and smooth (mixture will
look like cottage cheese at first). Sift powdered sugar over; whisk until
smooth glaze forms, about 30 seconds. Spoon glaze evenly over buns; serve
immediately.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-10659946774482020842016-03-17T10:25:00.001-06:002016-03-17T10:34:58.851-06:00Birthday GetawayWe didn't go to California this year for our post-Christmas getaway. Paul was out of vacation so for the first time in I don't know how long, we were not driving south on December 26th. The lack of sun was eating a hole in a my soul so for my January birthday I bought myself a plane ticket to see my parents and siblings in Chino, California for a weekend. In fact, the girls had their 15th and 12th birthday in January and early February as well so I bought them tickets too. Presto, a girls' weekend in the sunshine!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9HbzPKqw-c_bSM3onpdPT0Omk1Rdhpnv59nYytV5l1uQ91EdyzhvISrAx8IBehz0eb8mS8nZ5tqU1tIa0jb4pAIGziI-r7LGvDOCixom-hWhznOnOpMPUFH-95BL2jpXt4cF/s1600/1411+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9HbzPKqw-c_bSM3onpdPT0Omk1Rdhpnv59nYytV5l1uQ91EdyzhvISrAx8IBehz0eb8mS8nZ5tqU1tIa0jb4pAIGziI-r7LGvDOCixom-hWhznOnOpMPUFH-95BL2jpXt4cF/s640/1411+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmLnlJkCmbdEo6p904f7KuGCW_pNdVrVi9LPLOMoQRgDHIwizmyrYOGH3u5GzTF7xKdOvrvdai3o4WIrY8PuT3Cxlo4bigK9gZiQ_hVOqkl_8kYmcl5rYYpJGUcriUaEPEoOtG/s1600/1560+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmLnlJkCmbdEo6p904f7KuGCW_pNdVrVi9LPLOMoQRgDHIwizmyrYOGH3u5GzTF7xKdOvrvdai3o4WIrY8PuT3Cxlo4bigK9gZiQ_hVOqkl_8kYmcl5rYYpJGUcriUaEPEoOtG/s640/1560+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
Our first stop was <a href="http://www.surfcityusa.com/things-to-do/beaches/bolsa-chica-state-beach/" target="_blank">Bolsa Chica beach</a>. For a warm February day we were shocked that there was pretty much not another soul on the beach. A rarity in such a crowded town.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9JBGtz8Y2yRD9k5wkeV0jtwPsdyFtLranvhl903ziejSUnTSNTmNSGosmRSoF_ZlqdbfEApMXjYs2P0hALjj-jmxWlpkLSSwjhSIT06yKtvcnf7kdp6cXdHenOl8JyJfywwj/s1600/1443+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9JBGtz8Y2yRD9k5wkeV0jtwPsdyFtLranvhl903ziejSUnTSNTmNSGosmRSoF_ZlqdbfEApMXjYs2P0hALjj-jmxWlpkLSSwjhSIT06yKtvcnf7kdp6cXdHenOl8JyJfywwj/s640/1443+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyHrLYGNny5twsvVfbd8c3TIYpECO3sZw0iV34c7ZTQXxSZN6bw9rqntos6DzINIzwpAALDyG4rNzWTOxJwqK_ukEsmAMUDjF6dqNJ1cvrji27nl_q_pQVnLyKTP448lD0RYA/s1600/1448+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyHrLYGNny5twsvVfbd8c3TIYpECO3sZw0iV34c7ZTQXxSZN6bw9rqntos6DzINIzwpAALDyG4rNzWTOxJwqK_ukEsmAMUDjF6dqNJ1cvrji27nl_q_pQVnLyKTP448lD0RYA/s640/1448+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
That's my sister Carolyn above, talking away with Hallie, no doubt about something highly important like the latest video of a kitty cat on You Tube. Or the Lakers, yea probably the Lakers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdveJt9Gewu6WEiFZfBV6iuPnZ70ZwExyHG9VRwINRWVae045R4kas-ENpo-ZjK_CyDVbZMZc4zlaKVFbBqtL0MYyC2hafR-yrLz2U0UjhQU4PsMEQ9kMjOwTfnL8s5budQdb4/s1600/1378+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdveJt9Gewu6WEiFZfBV6iuPnZ70ZwExyHG9VRwINRWVae045R4kas-ENpo-ZjK_CyDVbZMZc4zlaKVFbBqtL0MYyC2hafR-yrLz2U0UjhQU4PsMEQ9kMjOwTfnL8s5budQdb4/s640/1378+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEi_6WIU4W84456QEZflxzX-97EXhHq6W3RB1wxX7yXI_SujTrYbiW2dEnVk6ldhLvcon4uL4jXdr0Q97vuQIBg831aApWOf2D39HpFOj5W8QkP-Fn48z6HT3cp4EXE8ZM8Eec/s1600/1401+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="417" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEi_6WIU4W84456QEZflxzX-97EXhHq6W3RB1wxX7yXI_SujTrYbiW2dEnVk6ldhLvcon4uL4jXdr0Q97vuQIBg831aApWOf2D39HpFOj5W8QkP-Fn48z6HT3cp4EXE8ZM8Eec/s640/1401+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-uiKza0dZ3IAsrb1rWNoBWWmn4DkT-cdaejeMxbohZDPydrST7wmOvnltAYP_8Ik7-nAyb2VuenhFlIbzuT50wo4es5VnZMk1PH1XO1vqV9QdjuFLlENFUaN0Qq0fdv4kXXV/s1600/1473+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-uiKza0dZ3IAsrb1rWNoBWWmn4DkT-cdaejeMxbohZDPydrST7wmOvnltAYP_8Ik7-nAyb2VuenhFlIbzuT50wo4es5VnZMk1PH1XO1vqV9QdjuFLlENFUaN0Qq0fdv4kXXV/s640/1473+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJYJ-vZFnfTJeoyBSKQQ-46VwOPwPZ9cSRy5AtAp4rGMijqI8btmcOeGgI6hlXtLdcSWA-Nq1AE8ax3IK_zhNYZ9KNs1i5kMaA4A67Y7uSLaBExviSUpwM-isjh2xV6FkaDa5/s1600/1505+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJYJ-vZFnfTJeoyBSKQQ-46VwOPwPZ9cSRy5AtAp4rGMijqI8btmcOeGgI6hlXtLdcSWA-Nq1AE8ax3IK_zhNYZ9KNs1i5kMaA4A67Y7uSLaBExviSUpwM-isjh2xV6FkaDa5/s640/1505+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0YeGhY6pC_hLGrv1VvyzOFd1MDCdnAkBTWjjWeo7bMfEhuVTnHygoN3SwCTZvhluenpttmpVWmzYlXPai1QD32VRO6JsnU29xVCb7dBvRNXefRppHJ5NVh-VZLai10TUXvN_U/s1600/1526+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0YeGhY6pC_hLGrv1VvyzOFd1MDCdnAkBTWjjWeo7bMfEhuVTnHygoN3SwCTZvhluenpttmpVWmzYlXPai1QD32VRO6JsnU29xVCb7dBvRNXefRppHJ5NVh-VZLai10TUXvN_U/s640/1526+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5z7Qd4HQtk1qa7l9hp1Zbj9nNVPSylOZynbUKcLsX7I3G5xyDKTQS7XePP-JbH3M9U_L2MyH3WJXZc25AX93myMcWyqOl0o8kxLLfmwZVDOVBvu4jOe6PdtGsh6aa6VWKwRQ/s1600/1517+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5z7Qd4HQtk1qa7l9hp1Zbj9nNVPSylOZynbUKcLsX7I3G5xyDKTQS7XePP-JbH3M9U_L2MyH3WJXZc25AX93myMcWyqOl0o8kxLLfmwZVDOVBvu4jOe6PdtGsh6aa6VWKwRQ/s640/1517+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
The day was filled with sunshine, laughs, greasy potato chips, handstands, shell collecting and a beautiful sunset.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUMwo-eR70Pjz-NI6i4-9vbvKPP-EIk3lDA58JU3q1gCVCy4i0Hxu8P5j8DyiSABQhx3iGo0JTXRNBhwVPS-k3iUzjADLNtNTjhfWr8o6nKGg_245QuRjkJTtXln7Uv9dTyUK/s1600/1533+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUMwo-eR70Pjz-NI6i4-9vbvKPP-EIk3lDA58JU3q1gCVCy4i0Hxu8P5j8DyiSABQhx3iGo0JTXRNBhwVPS-k3iUzjADLNtNTjhfWr8o6nKGg_245QuRjkJTtXln7Uv9dTyUK/s640/1533+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my life right now--Hallie tortures Ilene by touching, poking, or choking, and Ilene screams 'Get away!'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB88VZs91Krm7nPNK610Uh1twSz7YqzmgF6UaVlE84XtTqDEX-Zb4skisNUJAltDcaVU9r_Vy2JpilhEwtIXvtE6vS1lzKGEbMZHQg5A_H8u01qsw6ZUCpcf-NFMqnniYMIORg/s1600/1499+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB88VZs91Krm7nPNK610Uh1twSz7YqzmgF6UaVlE84XtTqDEX-Zb4skisNUJAltDcaVU9r_Vy2JpilhEwtIXvtE6vS1lzKGEbMZHQg5A_H8u01qsw6ZUCpcf-NFMqnniYMIORg/s640/1499+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2RMgX26IPk0Dmqh_0OBjYCMnwPrnNJA7kc6IMsCs7OdOZ5eY3_0OfCbqAh2jPjb6ZEll86uieuCYTTkkE4xwaqFs49MTSOOivKDaFEkHIzOe3YzHErwVqf-dgQMOrJS5OGRg/s1600/1554+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2RMgX26IPk0Dmqh_0OBjYCMnwPrnNJA7kc6IMsCs7OdOZ5eY3_0OfCbqAh2jPjb6ZEll86uieuCYTTkkE4xwaqFs49MTSOOivKDaFEkHIzOe3YzHErwVqf-dgQMOrJS5OGRg/s640/1554+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Mom the best seashells are found when the tide goes out!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjvWo8s3kEkgCEcGODIgjexdccJpNbcaGIqx6xtOc8nlwCf9Tq-n_uxHPLuEh2K31VkTiac-2gJ_tyZYteEsaX3UJ8Qb0yvklw9KihUaGbbqHaWiNzUkKzXZhuCqjH3NmhmN4/s1600/1388+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjvWo8s3kEkgCEcGODIgjexdccJpNbcaGIqx6xtOc8nlwCf9Tq-n_uxHPLuEh2K31VkTiac-2gJ_tyZYteEsaX3UJ8Qb0yvklw9KihUaGbbqHaWiNzUkKzXZhuCqjH3NmhmN4/s640/1388+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3FeHVAdiSIEi6mhf0QbB2s11BxmJYdgCtjELB3j4xE8acGEgCFoFGr6a_wBZZL6tLBYFdVADIuyf7GiNcVPgdANywrL-yDLr9KsSzU4jQP_89SzkM5iitM2Sr9ZOEgP7nHQ_/s1600/1372+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3FeHVAdiSIEi6mhf0QbB2s11BxmJYdgCtjELB3j4xE8acGEgCFoFGr6a_wBZZL6tLBYFdVADIuyf7GiNcVPgdANywrL-yDLr9KsSzU4jQP_89SzkM5iitM2Sr9ZOEgP7nHQ_/s640/1372+bolsa+chica+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Even when we ain't runnin' around southern California playing tourist we are happy to chill at my parents' home. Picking oranges, lemons, or just enjoying a good movie.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgob5zw6s0tGoqdoguAKbSZbPmPC4ONWc7gdcFv95XOlx_ifUyGrt0z6BpYw_DdJM7SjsauqD8cAox3-TZhAo5O769JR_IvnCL45bg81O5Nv14Y0hR5ohrw_B_uUrrNzMT3ajrI/s1600/1328+california.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgob5zw6s0tGoqdoguAKbSZbPmPC4ONWc7gdcFv95XOlx_ifUyGrt0z6BpYw_DdJM7SjsauqD8cAox3-TZhAo5O769JR_IvnCL45bg81O5Nv14Y0hR5ohrw_B_uUrrNzMT3ajrI/s640/1328+california.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh orange juice for breakfast everyday. No joke. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOWNuh9OOKJJ0Yo3pucOZ87NTPwRnvVAVIU0-wWQE-Ry9yHWppywLmY9hJ9fRFJwd_O0Tt8ABE1vCQejp6zSnpLfGbjM5vi2YkPhLs263MXxqyBLBhwkNlHC9cV3xd_1cOS2T/s1600/1327+california.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="459" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOWNuh9OOKJJ0Yo3pucOZ87NTPwRnvVAVIU0-wWQE-Ry9yHWppywLmY9hJ9fRFJwd_O0Tt8ABE1vCQejp6zSnpLfGbjM5vi2YkPhLs263MXxqyBLBhwkNlHC9cV3xd_1cOS2T/s640/1327+california.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've been picking lemons from this tree since 1978. Aren't Meyer lemons a true miracle?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NuKMmNJoU9Px1z9wMZ9tBwKrXgwAdeevY6Um_xEj9kgta3VWbGzmYyW7Mm9Kr47Mw2kbRf3_3NCnrvuHW_Cowjh2-bX0mDplz-wMsTjsh8iVsxop-4-RY_sQaS3QCO6okFfa/s1600/1351+california.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NuKMmNJoU9Px1z9wMZ9tBwKrXgwAdeevY6Um_xEj9kgta3VWbGzmYyW7Mm9Kr47Mw2kbRf3_3NCnrvuHW_Cowjh2-bX0mDplz-wMsTjsh8iVsxop-4-RY_sQaS3QCO6okFfa/s640/1351+california.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mom loves little lawn ornaments.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CUcnjxdZzWhZwMWpW8gjap9kpVjWXZUDcGdMQmaQk6bwyZ2UmkN9KmhB0pCwZIwI-su5j4kqqOgjrdLrn2hqzCbyy_rt4tbymvY7JRrxkBFXu8G6elUkB-j52oWQASeh5HcK/s1600/1361+california.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CUcnjxdZzWhZwMWpW8gjap9kpVjWXZUDcGdMQmaQk6bwyZ2UmkN9KmhB0pCwZIwI-su5j4kqqOgjrdLrn2hqzCbyy_rt4tbymvY7JRrxkBFXu8G6elUkB-j52oWQASeh5HcK/s640/1361+california.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I am determined to give my girls a proper California education, meaning we try to visit some historical sites like the local missions. Every California kid has to learn about missions in the 5th grade and torture their parents by making replicas of a mission. Usually out of sugar cubes or cardboard. So on this day we headed to the <a href="http://www.missionsjc.com/" target="_blank">San Juan Capistrano mission</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0K-Yw2zApn_24JMPKleF6jo7C1o95MTp4hSgIj5uyn_mmmnaoWSQgUrNftbY_rw2RVODwCLbQnVBHUvhyLg7GEjZR_eMnlPyqdSuIKuyQ08JeqJfNkBU1BqMqPlWq0On3w3k/s1600/1622+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0K-Yw2zApn_24JMPKleF6jo7C1o95MTp4hSgIj5uyn_mmmnaoWSQgUrNftbY_rw2RVODwCLbQnVBHUvhyLg7GEjZR_eMnlPyqdSuIKuyQ08JeqJfNkBU1BqMqPlWq0On3w3k/s640/1622+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="442" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3kRVbNuKckdr42qvjS1sR0wc9RJEht2FaQEXehpwjDSEd4a7CB4XQtaf_-b0MNviNnnFUMVF22UzTBqjV3DI4isrkZGqSOm-dBBaoZ1_fdcE6B-Eb-PAsnPfqh4-n9CrVky0/s1600/1623+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3kRVbNuKckdr42qvjS1sR0wc9RJEht2FaQEXehpwjDSEd4a7CB4XQtaf_-b0MNviNnnFUMVF22UzTBqjV3DI4isrkZGqSOm-dBBaoZ1_fdcE6B-Eb-PAsnPfqh4-n9CrVky0/s640/1623+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilW5RtjN6y4cAftx418EpKTOGkvpyBDZ2dUJctztGktwdDdX4DutWWza8cPKlmYWkWlCpDqroMvWR2A0H8mwtp8mYBPtsmOzH9f-XzLabWgBxbabK_OJc6KJ_G2ZSvnPwLBR3h/s1600/1627+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="579" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilW5RtjN6y4cAftx418EpKTOGkvpyBDZ2dUJctztGktwdDdX4DutWWza8cPKlmYWkWlCpDqroMvWR2A0H8mwtp8mYBPtsmOzH9f-XzLabWgBxbabK_OJc6KJ_G2ZSvnPwLBR3h/s640/1627+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0_qmyxpKHTjA1BAnsNohVlLcJ9SROuEZtQ0Sh31XB3i_HALURZoIoY5Q8EzO97YomUw-SzBtmRDh2jA70MTKVjUej6-DptznmfeFVKDPC0UjFD2EQihfi0QuqlnS0m487qR7/s1600/1632+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0_qmyxpKHTjA1BAnsNohVlLcJ9SROuEZtQ0Sh31XB3i_HALURZoIoY5Q8EzO97YomUw-SzBtmRDh2jA70MTKVjUej6-DptznmfeFVKDPC0UjFD2EQihfi0QuqlnS0m487qR7/s640/1632+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We opted for the tour with this cool guy in the red shirt. So cool!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtDpOCsKI76yyMzagefgLY0GwQRbw1Oc9rbJTHg1H-C1XA9AhpNjbKYHdvuHKIMLOq1n8EdxhkwEbteI4gZ34ZXAd6D6E6Uynz7nh0_sQwsVZuR9BJpKVl9pce1PrWRD0Fr07/s1600/1634+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtDpOCsKI76yyMzagefgLY0GwQRbw1Oc9rbJTHg1H-C1XA9AhpNjbKYHdvuHKIMLOq1n8EdxhkwEbteI4gZ34ZXAd6D6E6Uynz7nh0_sQwsVZuR9BJpKVl9pce1PrWRD0Fr07/s640/1634+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">walking around town to find some lunch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbgEZGvpPNvIuF8D27qJKpUepMc6QDdbbBaBWbyShgVOomWZNM889DSr0ksrQBvKvR3IRCn-efFs9AXfpMHguZpjJBiFvoHxevD4QDXCKtfJPRvQ62vjFiFMTwQxnBndngc36Q/s1600/1637+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbgEZGvpPNvIuF8D27qJKpUepMc6QDdbbBaBWbyShgVOomWZNM889DSr0ksrQBvKvR3IRCn-efFs9AXfpMHguZpjJBiFvoHxevD4QDXCKtfJPRvQ62vjFiFMTwQxnBndngc36Q/s640/1637+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDeynGuR89fSYM65xfIOQto63_uxF54DEDQNjlFNtsakyZCursgDNLkVG0aAx1Zv12STsjMoOaldtGcS6OfUvuVlEZlpYwZsuXmZZ9a_T13QN0_g2qLosOq-7hR534o9cJiSB6/s1600/1642+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDeynGuR89fSYM65xfIOQto63_uxF54DEDQNjlFNtsakyZCursgDNLkVG0aAx1Zv12STsjMoOaldtGcS6OfUvuVlEZlpYwZsuXmZZ9a_T13QN0_g2qLosOq-7hR534o9cJiSB6/s640/1642+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We dined at <a href="http://rubys.com/locations/sanjuancapistrano/index.html" target="_blank">Ruby's</a> on burgers and fries for lunch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih7p4vHUNM-qsEA5hiWKg5y4TIFOsDDomkFE7YoV8r3XBoe2vhBlT3KWF0Phs50Ww41KfiJjMQyzvE8XZXX13dF9qgaE5raYS8gyFAB1G7XrQywkKfmVV7ndtWtFSNOROOP6az/s1600/1654+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="441" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih7p4vHUNM-qsEA5hiWKg5y4TIFOsDDomkFE7YoV8r3XBoe2vhBlT3KWF0Phs50Ww41KfiJjMQyzvE8XZXX13dF9qgaE5raYS8gyFAB1G7XrQywkKfmVV7ndtWtFSNOROOP6az/s640/1654+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honestly me and the girls didn't plan the black and white shirt theme!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUQIj-oZq1u1mAS5HTWeiRIewHECw-8nugUzr4aAvIF1-qPA_Z0OGiZVPnImPpBMSAa0jNVrwv6S1FaScCsblo21Ea04EBQexJVDw4bYGQvWckSfa0lxVCuuMXDZGo9j0LmrO/s1600/1662+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUQIj-oZq1u1mAS5HTWeiRIewHECw-8nugUzr4aAvIF1-qPA_Z0OGiZVPnImPpBMSAa0jNVrwv6S1FaScCsblo21Ea04EBQexJVDw4bYGQvWckSfa0lxVCuuMXDZGo9j0LmrO/s640/1662+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSwpYaws0LodKyxXwgZoydUxlQZrD4EllkUmmsYBTEFDp3hMuSxv7BAWUcICYAjx6EY7aE3-KE-9sTUoLrO3CT-mgxK5JHHpcG42U8GZ-HoIjcs3KJkSNfaNtAd4q8x56hAKR/s1600/1670+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSwpYaws0LodKyxXwgZoydUxlQZrD4EllkUmmsYBTEFDp3hMuSxv7BAWUcICYAjx6EY7aE3-KE-9sTUoLrO3CT-mgxK5JHHpcG42U8GZ-HoIjcs3KJkSNfaNtAd4q8x56hAKR/s640/1670+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9fi6GYxSO8ftKvg9YL4J6UO0g375EmSsqkVb5zZUtroZrPTgftMwI07y2pyk0eJaMbvfIpBghL51Bgj_aoDlW_kLMz6Kxc4-9yKuwWrFvooyMffx68DI4Otp1JsY6TsL4q5c/s1600/1680+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9fi6GYxSO8ftKvg9YL4J6UO0g375EmSsqkVb5zZUtroZrPTgftMwI07y2pyk0eJaMbvfIpBghL51Bgj_aoDlW_kLMz6Kxc4-9yKuwWrFvooyMffx68DI4Otp1JsY6TsL4q5c/s640/1680+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMhyphenhyphenjMCR6HjmIE1vpV6z33xYrL9P9j8N8PBSPey63ukFLosCp5YwuouunykFHCf2O02Eu3ZdRl4OiSZ9UkqRFyIinsn_7qkHGmn27dDVv0LtbEFZonSZs-OHFQFVHozyTiZaD/s1600/1721+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMhyphenhyphenjMCR6HjmIE1vpV6z33xYrL9P9j8N8PBSPey63ukFLosCp5YwuouunykFHCf2O02Eu3ZdRl4OiSZ9UkqRFyIinsn_7qkHGmn27dDVv0LtbEFZonSZs-OHFQFVHozyTiZaD/s640/1721+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjduKhiGJ-1MIIVlwqpjcrJObQEZzdrbPIfDjOMuO8uNx5uSh916HcmFCurNaGZs2gkGWGZ5Tqn2folj-Dbn3MEhO5CA3iGE9XtKurdvW0ZgJNzmcP9EPcYAB-ENfaqMhCC9Q/s1600/1729+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjduKhiGJ-1MIIVlwqpjcrJObQEZzdrbPIfDjOMuO8uNx5uSh916HcmFCurNaGZs2gkGWGZ5Tqn2folj-Dbn3MEhO5CA3iGE9XtKurdvW0ZgJNzmcP9EPcYAB-ENfaqMhCC9Q/s640/1729+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkliiA108odM6y0AGGewx16tIL7IoeDaTW9LdiQhDreQGklyHGmZnnNuAvQeWeWUbGLQn2azN5NZ2V0DXebanjCOoNiyB84wndmLjoyYtdUnvviWSruGMemi-ZTSOOwLFu7vDN/s1600/1742+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkliiA108odM6y0AGGewx16tIL7IoeDaTW9LdiQhDreQGklyHGmZnnNuAvQeWeWUbGLQn2azN5NZ2V0DXebanjCOoNiyB84wndmLjoyYtdUnvviWSruGMemi-ZTSOOwLFu7vDN/s640/1742+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOo4yvfaZUUfoa2lClIMmoUaqSDKf6v-JKE3WXfD6UeG1VxmI_wA7Tkw9XivoqRh6pwxAbwwYTJKYS2PKMF4LGUVG4S2mGh8Fmf9h_Fw6dwoa6FXwwVrmJaYzSM2170Nm7yO-B/s1600/1743+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOo4yvfaZUUfoa2lClIMmoUaqSDKf6v-JKE3WXfD6UeG1VxmI_wA7Tkw9XivoqRh6pwxAbwwYTJKYS2PKMF4LGUVG4S2mGh8Fmf9h_Fw6dwoa6FXwwVrmJaYzSM2170Nm7yO-B/s640/1743+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0VOeVAeS7UNjjIzKPnkYf8LkHd9m8kGfVWtemhDbBXT8sEdYSduv_MkhMQKIXDahKi5TsND_vtFyErs9gT3Uw8f2MXgOfO6j21YCVwpFenEZjF5-6NU11qJW5XFZSdbZnnrD/s1600/1763+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0VOeVAeS7UNjjIzKPnkYf8LkHd9m8kGfVWtemhDbBXT8sEdYSduv_MkhMQKIXDahKi5TsND_vtFyErs9gT3Uw8f2MXgOfO6j21YCVwpFenEZjF5-6NU11qJW5XFZSdbZnnrD/s640/1763+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We stayed till sunset, how could we not? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjyld9rw1b5yrOxkOyOsKZihY9gc12xnvZY8F-9fZXDgwn5Wfe8GJAhCdIYghGnJRRDO1jJd79NH7uNDCGbsHCKU8ybY4sYkEVqkXWqtvnOUJ3sOPkTITND8wP7zY6uRf5Zwp8/s1600/1769+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjyld9rw1b5yrOxkOyOsKZihY9gc12xnvZY8F-9fZXDgwn5Wfe8GJAhCdIYghGnJRRDO1jJd79NH7uNDCGbsHCKU8ybY4sYkEVqkXWqtvnOUJ3sOPkTITND8wP7zY6uRf5Zwp8/s640/1769+san+juan+capistrano+mission.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was about 75 degress, sunny, and perfect, everyday we were there. In the end it was time for us to head back to Long Beach airport for our flight to Salt Lake City. But I am a moron and went by the time in my Google calendar app for the return flight--4pm. Only that was Utah time, not California time. Our flight was 3pm. So we missed it. Dang you Google! So we had 6 hours to waste before the next Jet Blue flight left for Salt Lake.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JikSCCzvhpT03CtQcUcvY31r-YT7hB2WPpJmfSQ20T0v4QsIjexzrKB2iI9KpwpjJxXbWf14DQNnlnVGUQCcpVrks_1iqBMuLZKXBZl6kV2Jn-qmKsydLl4JC6qxN8__xOka/s1600/1773+long+beach+airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JikSCCzvhpT03CtQcUcvY31r-YT7hB2WPpJmfSQ20T0v4QsIjexzrKB2iI9KpwpjJxXbWf14DQNnlnVGUQCcpVrks_1iqBMuLZKXBZl6kV2Jn-qmKsydLl4JC6qxN8__xOka/s640/1773+long+beach+airport.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJyyaDz4DK8VTMWFnibEDsRfrrYBI1OgF5uOrdGNcWgCF7S2A2GN8NuDkPk1BZTcDnuxV5OAaFno0UpRE92tBq1rBQODOw9r3e7MtjhCX2frnecjMuympxcU0Zhz5WD4Gd3kd/s1600/1780+long+beach+airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJyyaDz4DK8VTMWFnibEDsRfrrYBI1OgF5uOrdGNcWgCF7S2A2GN8NuDkPk1BZTcDnuxV5OAaFno0UpRE92tBq1rBQODOw9r3e7MtjhCX2frnecjMuympxcU0Zhz5WD4Gd3kd/s640/1780+long+beach+airport.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsPYp_W_zkwUV6XiJP4AMkRmLwZAtSj9m9mz9bYuwxzUqoYMSkZKZSfrf0_r_7N_iHc4xlJ_GCb2LALlF529GzghR7I5MEpOsxIhGRMGvskxn1p_55U-MFC6uLSPg-cTn1xFK/s1600/1784+long+beach+airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsPYp_W_zkwUV6XiJP4AMkRmLwZAtSj9m9mz9bYuwxzUqoYMSkZKZSfrf0_r_7N_iHc4xlJ_GCb2LALlF529GzghR7I5MEpOsxIhGRMGvskxn1p_55U-MFC6uLSPg-cTn1xFK/s640/1784+long+beach+airport.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playing barefoot is always better</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRb83LAnb3aXhxUItXI4iLvoki6dClPCmy8Z3ebRM4qO2ZDvLHhnaryXcwpXoj2-3Odjyel1TsKFhYwEmmr_JGyKaduCzEME-oWZRfGrkyZRFnj-jAl3njP74GGwpoXSH-fLEB/s1600/1785+long+beach+airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRb83LAnb3aXhxUItXI4iLvoki6dClPCmy8Z3ebRM4qO2ZDvLHhnaryXcwpXoj2-3Odjyel1TsKFhYwEmmr_JGyKaduCzEME-oWZRfGrkyZRFnj-jAl3njP74GGwpoXSH-fLEB/s640/1785+long+beach+airport.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of time to waste playing cards. An I Love Lucy deck of course.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZZ0iXeNcGl0GEeAj7PUCHFSr1CoJ74pKPUiRoClMhw2Tn8Yrf-L1TmGDdK-H4fM7GQyME4GAYtMI6npJuWFrDkYhO_SPIhLD-RU3pC4uHivyBPqH3AWraDWUl9VLyvynLkmc/s1600/1794+long+beach+airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZZ0iXeNcGl0GEeAj7PUCHFSr1CoJ74pKPUiRoClMhw2Tn8Yrf-L1TmGDdK-H4fM7GQyME4GAYtMI6npJuWFrDkYhO_SPIhLD-RU3pC4uHivyBPqH3AWraDWUl9VLyvynLkmc/s640/1794+long+beach+airport.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKpt7EMKorD3b27k4bwL0pTJskjJj1c_q5IGcjgQ72taSplvNBIvXlcMVBfg-O-qwDvTnKc5Z1xqKviBmB3Gediz6cCzaLmo9jHj-lp1qsDye20njvW6rvWmnFHFjKKCqzY53/s1600/1805+long+beach+airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKpt7EMKorD3b27k4bwL0pTJskjJj1c_q5IGcjgQ72taSplvNBIvXlcMVBfg-O-qwDvTnKc5Z1xqKviBmB3Gediz6cCzaLmo9jHj-lp1qsDye20njvW6rvWmnFHFjKKCqzY53/s640/1805+long+beach+airport.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thankfully Long Beach airport is outside so we did get 6 more hours of sunshine.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbnoyOsUJDkUVROE_LtDVFh1ajv6D0iMaHZsQczI5kNQmaVcgIgeulCvvIQ-pwL5Vh1RDWiT3l3eRqrZq3y5p_E-NKIalbZy07NS3p7lHJhcTnc4UvmGzj0HVlDjuf52TKz3C/s1600/1807+long+beach+airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="441" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbnoyOsUJDkUVROE_LtDVFh1ajv6D0iMaHZsQczI5kNQmaVcgIgeulCvvIQ-pwL5Vh1RDWiT3l3eRqrZq3y5p_E-NKIalbZy07NS3p7lHJhcTnc4UvmGzj0HVlDjuf52TKz3C/s640/1807+long+beach+airport.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do I look amused that we missed our flight? I do not. Ilene does though!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Farewell California, till next time! Maybe some day we will live back under your glorious sunshine. but until then we have to settle for long weekends with family.Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-9694732918035579502016-03-04T16:47:00.001-07:002016-03-17T10:32:49.501-06:00My Family RoomOur family room is a very busy room. It gets hammered by all five of us. We use it for parties, TV watching, exercise, napping, you name it and it usually happens in this room. After ten years of living here, and various furniture layouts (click <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meringuedesigns/5982226314/in/album-72157604443873352/" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meringuedesigns/5981665273/in/album-72157604443873352/" target="_blank">here</a> for how it once looked), this current layout seems to be the best use of space.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinsNvHIkDIpKr_bvtTm-E2bSY8MC54Js3-j6-_4vavvdAqq_vjW3TuExEqMbll_yFqhijFgLM2s-N8hBNrjCTC987_KbtUcgI8FT4GAgaJZOChyphenhyphenFDSiTUo9IO2_-rzypnmKtcf/s1600/2022+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinsNvHIkDIpKr_bvtTm-E2bSY8MC54Js3-j6-_4vavvdAqq_vjW3TuExEqMbll_yFqhijFgLM2s-N8hBNrjCTC987_KbtUcgI8FT4GAgaJZOChyphenhyphenFDSiTUo9IO2_-rzypnmKtcf/s640/2022+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It seems like a big room but when you consider all the space we have to leave open for walkways, it really isn't very big. and because it isn't very big we have to have appropriate sized furniture. I would love to have room to have two couches but that is not possible--simply no room. The fireplace takes up one entire wall and the TV entertainment system takes up another. Shucks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7m51aM0MPhDZf8pLL-2_F8aOxXYjpvPBnqfYzgPqhh2RY1OGoEuNbZZ7UYY4snee72V6yc7nWdk7yrfbTj63Bea4vhcyYJZjFxU6nls6o76LJvChj7V103rhWHdz0adqdFly/s1600/2020+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7m51aM0MPhDZf8pLL-2_F8aOxXYjpvPBnqfYzgPqhh2RY1OGoEuNbZZ7UYY4snee72V6yc7nWdk7yrfbTj63Bea4vhcyYJZjFxU6nls6o76LJvChj7V103rhWHdz0adqdFly/s640/2020+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our 5-yr old <a href="http://www.mgbwhome.com/KEATON-SOFA-P8886.aspx" target="_blank">Keaton sofa</a> is only 78" long. And while I still love it I was a fool to order a down couch. Look at how slouchy and sloppy it looks. I am ordering new cushions for it because I am sick of how sloppy it always looks. We fluffed all the cushions last night and still they look sloppy. Do not ever order a down couch! Do not let how happy your butt cheeks are in the showroom, sitting on that sofa, allow you to be suckered into paying extra for down! You have been warned!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0V_E6wEKIRJPLGaadXkevS2LXHiS3pyzrHOCpab9wbjEyG8IZGc5NDCQL-sTVkLD9MjmqUc9v3yK_22ypMC8g2L2DfKjfI_7qbHMo_3BmkGmgYsDQDnrBXYdNN3yMnwg1R5BG/s1600/2035+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0V_E6wEKIRJPLGaadXkevS2LXHiS3pyzrHOCpab9wbjEyG8IZGc5NDCQL-sTVkLD9MjmqUc9v3yK_22ypMC8g2L2DfKjfI_7qbHMo_3BmkGmgYsDQDnrBXYdNN3yMnwg1R5BG/s640/2035+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The<a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/dixon-coffee-table/s164097" target="_blank"> coffee table is from Crate & Barrel's small-scale</a> furniture line. Most regular coffee tables were way too big for this space. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlHGgH7QTmahJLqBv-2E25A0DvaAC6u3F5DSDRz8yeWp2ol-KrN1sPeZp_AicwLogPvkG6FgTkI7Lp7EFXraVAT3iX1CBqf1U7zNmPi8ytqtl_zqwmm10S0X5IW0tbRvFATn0/s1600/2034+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlHGgH7QTmahJLqBv-2E25A0DvaAC6u3F5DSDRz8yeWp2ol-KrN1sPeZp_AicwLogPvkG6FgTkI7Lp7EFXraVAT3iX1CBqf1U7zNmPi8ytqtl_zqwmm10S0X5IW0tbRvFATn0/s640/2034+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggEdHXq1o-aSz-F9GPz1_Cy5I98ZIT-TyYmJqzlx5bvTDbnxp8Fd_T-o8Klq9-_U5hoAxI9G1qnF1CNfFFO8-lELiso3C-olzwlxp2nh86WnnmxxHqL85ebDPLDGM_5ceBduBw/s1600/2014+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggEdHXq1o-aSz-F9GPz1_Cy5I98ZIT-TyYmJqzlx5bvTDbnxp8Fd_T-o8Klq9-_U5hoAxI9G1qnF1CNfFFO8-lELiso3C-olzwlxp2nh86WnnmxxHqL85ebDPLDGM_5ceBduBw/s640/2014+family+room.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">The green cabinet is from </span><a href="https://4-chairs.com/" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">Four Chairs</a><span style="text-align: start;">. I had the paint custom matched to that crazy green. I want to paint it navy blue now. It </span><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meringuedesigns/5981665201/in/album-72157604443873352/" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">used to be in my kitchen</a><span style="text-align: start;"> years ago but then I moved it here to be a TV stand. I believe good furniture should be able to live happily in many different rooms. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2dyIiVOCpWStU9VN6UB_UeLMQ1Ly3v9F5jIWNyWv9xPUsXeEjuzvOBNS9uzdAt_-mAZj8INE15zBnvYw2TglZXoOa8D30311XnvZpZxksAd_KBEpthZsl8p4RSmNbqzr66Mv/s1600/2038+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2dyIiVOCpWStU9VN6UB_UeLMQ1Ly3v9F5jIWNyWv9xPUsXeEjuzvOBNS9uzdAt_-mAZj8INE15zBnvYw2TglZXoOa8D30311XnvZpZxksAd_KBEpthZsl8p4RSmNbqzr66Mv/s640/2038+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The ottoman is the now-discontinued Ikea <a href="https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&es_th=1&ie=UTF-8#q=klippan+footstool+ikea" target="_blank">Klippan footstool </a>slipcovered by me. I simply gotta have a cushy place to rest my feet when watching TV!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH13tlw2MBbvHBAkV0dJCA_jotRQdSEx24lxl2Kihc6DXU_OixHdGbN-_c3YiaPt5DVfRqVCr_MhVuSjrA2eCMmw0oTCjLpJkGJ_bl45rQ5khr0UPq6gLPA8H3IpkQxqlzfd04/s1600/2031+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH13tlw2MBbvHBAkV0dJCA_jotRQdSEx24lxl2Kihc6DXU_OixHdGbN-_c3YiaPt5DVfRqVCr_MhVuSjrA2eCMmw0oTCjLpJkGJ_bl45rQ5khr0UPq6gLPA8H3IpkQxqlzfd04/s640/2031+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
All the furniture in this room is several years old, but<a href="http://www.bernhardt.com/product/arielle/chairs-ottomans/arielle-swivel-chair" target="_blank"> this chair</a> is brand new this week! It completes this room, finally.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKNDJV0wOx-EuM5RL-Elt731THOaiPjAk-O5I4G-hv44TsGv7h5GRowTuBKPNrtkOOoBWCjr26Xwb07mu3CbaroMpwBMKOonjmRN-fIc1J0qvdB5K7HS9pkGzkYn8EoKQ9vZq/s1600/2036+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="433" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKNDJV0wOx-EuM5RL-Elt731THOaiPjAk-O5I4G-hv44TsGv7h5GRowTuBKPNrtkOOoBWCjr26Xwb07mu3CbaroMpwBMKOonjmRN-fIc1J0qvdB5K7HS9pkGzkYn8EoKQ9vZq/s640/2036+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It is a swivel chair. I have been wanting a swivel chair forever so that you could easily turn it for TV watching and spare your poor neck muscles. Like I said, this small room requires some creativity to maximize important functions like TV watching. We like TV in this house.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigy5wrQsyYckOkAPx86HttHLBIcJNduuRfYCNFiRWbDRKQrAN1NPJJpsIa62c0stiydvwts1UiFuY5B9NcGTtApc9DBKehj4YtnrT7zuwz6t_oLZMzKh3tFIrklQh2lSaR3hDz/s1600/2027+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigy5wrQsyYckOkAPx86HttHLBIcJNduuRfYCNFiRWbDRKQrAN1NPJJpsIa62c0stiydvwts1UiFuY5B9NcGTtApc9DBKehj4YtnrT7zuwz6t_oLZMzKh3tFIrklQh2lSaR3hDz/s640/2027+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The gallery wall was 'curated' four years ago,<a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2012/12/gallery-art-wall.html" target="_blank"> here's a tutorial </a>for that. I rotate the photos/artwork sort of regularly. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJaH0lBLi9f622SvbXoJcZieTgsG-GUAsJ1bky3RVnaHJoP67w1jKgdnrn1dfehY6paVbh82a2wH0JzcbYYtI_2WOs2SEwPaDUoE2BJneqxx6duNPWJTkE_jEEg2Ng-WLwzAx/s1600/2039+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJaH0lBLi9f622SvbXoJcZieTgsG-GUAsJ1bky3RVnaHJoP67w1jKgdnrn1dfehY6paVbh82a2wH0JzcbYYtI_2WOs2SEwPaDUoE2BJneqxx6duNPWJTkE_jEEg2Ng-WLwzAx/s640/2039+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Notice in the bottom right corner of the photo above my husband's adjustable Power Block weights. This is also our exercise room. <i>(Yes it is tacky to store them in open view but I haven't figured out a better alternative yet. My weights are smaller and fit under the green chairs.)</i> Just move the coffee table and ottoman and sweat away at dark-thirty in the morning. <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2015/07/fitness-blender-makes-me-happyand.html" target="_blank">Five brutal days a week</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfJvrgSKxLc116wwCjTxPr8Vykt7WPuVn5JAGVas1G_rTEpq22sr2LomH4gV_AosWjKe_LV23yIXVIgVhtopbuX-yb13E8g9GHDCkxW9w2YmL1iT3WhKDn13ru5R_WbiZEBM2T/s1600/D75_0483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfJvrgSKxLc116wwCjTxPr8Vykt7WPuVn5JAGVas1G_rTEpq22sr2LomH4gV_AosWjKe_LV23yIXVIgVhtopbuX-yb13E8g9GHDCkxW9w2YmL1iT3WhKDn13ru5R_WbiZEBM2T/s640/D75_0483.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My green arm chairs are the <a href="http://www.mgbwhome.com/CARA-CHAIR-P8393.aspx" target="_blank">Kara chair from Mitchell Gold</a>. These are down filled just like the sofa but for some reason they don't have that slouchy look. Thank goodness! I chose to have them stain-guarded 5 years ago and thankfully that has helped them hold up really well. Too well. In fact I am tired of the green upholstery and want them recovered but it is in perfect condition. Nuts. The pillows are blue linen embroidered by me. Buy <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/meringuedesigns?section_id=5891157&ref=shopsection_leftnav_2" target="_blank">the pillows in my etsy shop. </a> Buy the embroidery designs <a href="http://meringuedesigns.net/" target="_blank">here</a> to make them yourself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEiy47IAOg7gdTv6oQs4BXTMFbjd5YPdmfhqXXVZFzrZg264JxyoNsfJuXtlKB3uoQ4pu5MuehpvLk9NTAEysmJucMzRJtZzvc8YkMuJmWB9rwCDq33XwHnh_TvTwR782M7u83/s1600/2037+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEiy47IAOg7gdTv6oQs4BXTMFbjd5YPdmfhqXXVZFzrZg264JxyoNsfJuXtlKB3uoQ4pu5MuehpvLk9NTAEysmJucMzRJtZzvc8YkMuJmWB9rwCDq33XwHnh_TvTwR782M7u83/s640/2037+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My fireplace has the ugliest tile ever but that's what the last homeowners chose so here I am ten years later still living with it. I call it Baby Barf with a touch of gray. I still have not found the perfect artwork so a simple mirror just leans against the wall. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioat-Hn8w1Ko2oSwpg_7q6CCgnVkVoavQlYKdMiERamKW_zqfcDjfeWxU-1VoxCOsiJ2F1AoXVrf5cag394d01YnEfgNsRPMvPnMuXw-49KdMNDaCGPEAbsWYz13pBvX5dcD-m/s1600/2024+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioat-Hn8w1Ko2oSwpg_7q6CCgnVkVoavQlYKdMiERamKW_zqfcDjfeWxU-1VoxCOsiJ2F1AoXVrf5cag394d01YnEfgNsRPMvPnMuXw-49KdMNDaCGPEAbsWYz13pBvX5dcD-m/s640/2024+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I keep the mantle sparsely decorated with a few vases, an unframed print I bought at the garden tomb in Jerusalem last year, and an orchid that my husband somehow gets to bloom every few months, year after year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WOmEOfwJHYsUp2L9zAv_KEeNxxi8UQRk2fC6bcnXDcNW-ulYm68SwgKFg1NMPRS7IxqK6FkhEPfI-NI0UCrK-HRI_W9rhK5P_j3vghFFNayY6hMBbTdoUBnFaBdZCRVoCzoP/s1600/2013+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WOmEOfwJHYsUp2L9zAv_KEeNxxi8UQRk2fC6bcnXDcNW-ulYm68SwgKFg1NMPRS7IxqK6FkhEPfI-NI0UCrK-HRI_W9rhK5P_j3vghFFNayY6hMBbTdoUBnFaBdZCRVoCzoP/s640/2013+family+room.jpg" width="438" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This corner has lots of unsightly cords so a big plant hides them nicely. A basket holds my handmade quilts, and our family photo is a gallery-wrapped canvas print from Costco. I made the drapes four years ago-- <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-to-make-pleated-drapes.html" target="_blank">here's a tutorial</a>. The white table is from Ikea.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoBpLxKH0-8pUOInANxjiDnUzh5eyKEElKD2e1ZIQWu7O2_0YEvbfJoAqLXCpsw7lKWxO_aHeyJQOheXsILMLWqw9ilXgpb9WnMfDGFZS0Qq_R03kQbGCiNiSdOaaVbF5Vc1T/s1600/2017+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoBpLxKH0-8pUOInANxjiDnUzh5eyKEElKD2e1ZIQWu7O2_0YEvbfJoAqLXCpsw7lKWxO_aHeyJQOheXsILMLWqw9ilXgpb9WnMfDGFZS0Qq_R03kQbGCiNiSdOaaVbF5Vc1T/s640/2017+family+room.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
The <a href="http://www.art.com/products/p11726596-sa-i1352121/vincent-van-gogh-mulberry-tree-c-1889.htm?sOrig=CAT&sOrigID=0&dimVals=0&ui=F5B9C75DC83149FC9C383FF8B13AE487&searchstring=mulbery&SSK=mulbery" target="_blank">Van Gogh artwork is from Art.com</a> and was blogged about <a href="http://deepthoughtsbycynthia.blogspot.com/2015/11/van-gogh-mulberry-tree.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The table is at least 10 years old, purchased from Pier One Imports. It used to be my bedside table. The <a href="http://www.lampsplus.com/products/royal-blue-small-gourd-accent-table-lamp__y7566-x9753.html" target="_blank">blue gourd lamps are from here. </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_L97RfjZTjByRqsi4MB-iEeRs00TcdnUfHFP_L-ZkFnG782s2bOCY06uThH9zYO7F3xqRxxAyC71XwHdfq3NJlZXQxobdKnkrfgaBcDvCqPGUT-1OPgXxRALPwohWw0CX7GyS/s1600/2018+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_L97RfjZTjByRqsi4MB-iEeRs00TcdnUfHFP_L-ZkFnG782s2bOCY06uThH9zYO7F3xqRxxAyC71XwHdfq3NJlZXQxobdKnkrfgaBcDvCqPGUT-1OPgXxRALPwohWw0CX7GyS/s640/2018+family+room.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lastly the<a href="http://www.rugsusa.com/rugsusa/rugs/rugs-usa-chevron/light-blue/200HJHK04D-26010.html" target="_blank"> rug is from Rugs Usa</a>. It is 100% wool and was on sale for $300. It sheds like a dog. I thought after four years of owning it it would go completely bald and would stop shedding but nope. We vacuum up wooly-dust-bunnies every few days. Nuts. It's lovely but you have been warned.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ro693Ds-VM7Rr_RxN0H1S92rZAgKAJNkATDSX1H_n-_Uh09RvabDoVkwIA_19zzu-cK0oOn5S79f9f4RUBIAdrvqWeRnS_OIwceJQ0zwkuXz0G_Ao09HgOKFYyp94lCqG6zo/s1600/2028+family+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ro693Ds-VM7Rr_RxN0H1S92rZAgKAJNkATDSX1H_n-_Uh09RvabDoVkwIA_19zzu-cK0oOn5S79f9f4RUBIAdrvqWeRnS_OIwceJQ0zwkuXz0G_Ao09HgOKFYyp94lCqG6zo/s640/2028+family+room.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I like an eclectic house. I don't like anything to match too much; I'd rather have things coordinate, that way I can move items from room to room when I get bored. Free makeover, ya know? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh and look at that messy kitchen in the background. I do not pretend to have a well-put-together life. We are messy people on the inside and outside. Life is hard dang it. Pretty things put a smile on my face, I make no apologies about that. Sometimes I take issue with home tours on blogs because everything looks perfect when<i> life never is</i>. So please know this blog post is just a snapshot of how my house looks sometimes, not all the time. Ok rarely.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-74390938240321478232016-01-20T11:28:00.002-07:002016-03-17T10:50:05.980-06:00Every Mom Should Own a Sort-of-Fancy Camera<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Buying a $400 camera in 2008 was the best purchase I ever made. Babies don't keep. They grow up and become high school seniors, and get accepted to colleges like my son did this very week. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvDwyITV3x7aPOAoZfeF2LS454ORimi9T8ARJOFMlX1a8_6xBEcDMyvd0gjPVdaajAsIB-Np23KeidtK0axlKWGE6JtGXhcplQszAgTin9BR-_Na5AD4rH8rCweyFUaCfdicR/s1600/DSC_0490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvDwyITV3x7aPOAoZfeF2LS454ORimi9T8ARJOFMlX1a8_6xBEcDMyvd0gjPVdaajAsIB-Np23KeidtK0axlKWGE6JtGXhcplQszAgTin9BR-_Na5AD4rH8rCweyFUaCfdicR/s640/DSC_0490.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I am not a professional photographer. I am a hobbyist, a housewife, completely self taught and I have loved watching my kids grow up behind my camera lens. You can click on any of the photos in this post to see them full size.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7vuzYGi-lhRAOGlpXyLtYp7zfjXkhk4PSS3gCPBpO-ZGH8FeBS4D4hKma_1WbEsgDogD-OLtSuaKFTl51FhJpPSQflFg_Vs5dyb3jscwYh6QQoUAVD-vLsKAYjp2U9tgmvad/s1600/D7K_3200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7vuzYGi-lhRAOGlpXyLtYp7zfjXkhk4PSS3gCPBpO-ZGH8FeBS4D4hKma_1WbEsgDogD-OLtSuaKFTl51FhJpPSQflFg_Vs5dyb3jscwYh6QQoUAVD-vLsKAYjp2U9tgmvad/s640/D7K_3200.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D7000, ISO 200, 18-200mm lens at 75mm, f/5, 1/1000 second<br />
Ilene on the Big Island of Hawaii playing her beloved ukulele.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am <b>strongly</b><b> encouraging</b> all the other moms and dads, especially of little ones, although it is never too late, to buy a nicer camera, learn a few basic photography skills, and capture your kids playing on a sandy beach at sunset in a bit-of-a-nicer way than your camera phone can (sorry it's true) before the kids are grown and gone.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyrytKJfcxlkkUNhcIxTTKvQGAhDQtpKjTr4d2wuHHMnBUbU3wIbik7CjUGucetMWuzsAHgn3FEzHQXcsBAI6NT0WvKyqgKVW0rbsV1oJGK4xubZpIVNo2Cg__F2OvdWZeNzL/s1600/D7K_2760-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyrytKJfcxlkkUNhcIxTTKvQGAhDQtpKjTr4d2wuHHMnBUbU3wIbik7CjUGucetMWuzsAHgn3FEzHQXcsBAI6NT0WvKyqgKVW0rbsV1oJGK4xubZpIVNo2Cg__F2OvdWZeNzL/s640/D7K_2760-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D7000, ISO 320, F/5, 18-200mm lens at 40mm,1/6400 sec<br />
Building sandcastles in 2013 on the Big Island of Hawaii.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If you want to start capturing your kids' childhood, I have just three tips to help you get on your way in the photography world:<br />
<i><br /></i>
<u><i><b>Advice tip #1 You don't have to spend a fortune on the camera</b></i>.</u><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHKnIjmjmP2d2dpw_6I8DovmKrC4kNh7jd0iNU1GmBKD0QTzSB2J_NWgPXU4kxHt2mmi_PMTSJXrA6MzSks_AWtRwNA9IL4idutVlBkIKE5s7beq915J0eLp1Dji1_SHhdwn0/s1600/california+trip+dec2009+149-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHKnIjmjmP2d2dpw_6I8DovmKrC4kNh7jd0iNU1GmBKD0QTzSB2J_NWgPXU4kxHt2mmi_PMTSJXrA6MzSks_AWtRwNA9IL4idutVlBkIKE5s7beq915J0eLp1Dji1_SHhdwn0/s640/california+trip+dec2009+149-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D40, ISO 200, 35mm lens, f/1.8, 1/3200<br />
A broken stick becomes a Harry Potter wand</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is my first camera pictured with yours truly in 2008, the year I bought it. It is the Nikon D40 and I paid around $475 for it with the kit lens. It's not even made anymore but used they run around $140. A great starter camera. I still own it as a back up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8yl0IzlsBEFFMF-vxlOJOcpVGT35R_zykw41-3fgNxu3K0MCxmvvOIm2haMm6JK2xYQqLyWN2GTFBKICttMaeKsTZ4ldVkhyvt6yd3_YEzdqp6Ot86S0NTV6JJYHDG5I1_yO/s1600/behind+camera.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8yl0IzlsBEFFMF-vxlOJOcpVGT35R_zykw41-3fgNxu3K0MCxmvvOIm2haMm6JK2xYQqLyWN2GTFBKICttMaeKsTZ4ldVkhyvt6yd3_YEzdqp6Ot86S0NTV6JJYHDG5I1_yO/s640/behind+camera.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The camera below is my 2nd camera I bought in 2013. It is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-D7000-DSLR-Body-Only/dp/B0042X9LC4/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1453305327&sr=1-1&keywords=nikon+d7000" target="_blank">Nikon D7000</a>. I just sold it last week. Here it is with the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-AF-S-NIKKOR-Focus-Cameras/dp/B001S2PPT0/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1453305423&sr=1-1&keywords=nikon+35mm" target="_blank">Nikon 35mm 1.8 lens</a> attached in this photo. Best lens for your bucks!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6s3OFMG7a2KkMe2IY6AZt0nImf4B2RASFwDleQgjLn65F04cMjtEL13Tc4E41pDIRncn-NbTph81CTNfrUe4rDY_OrGDCd4ge-dsColjCife_N8WpVbMw9LovjSfb5kec6riv/s1600/DSC_0490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6s3OFMG7a2KkMe2IY6AZt0nImf4B2RASFwDleQgjLn65F04cMjtEL13Tc4E41pDIRncn-NbTph81CTNfrUe4rDY_OrGDCd4ge-dsColjCife_N8WpVbMw9LovjSfb5kec6riv/s640/DSC_0490.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Below is my 3rd and newest camera as of December 2015. It is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-D750-FX-format-Digital-Camera/dp/B0060MVJ1Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1453305621&sr=1-1&keywords=nikon+d750" target="_blank">Nikon D750</a>. After eight years of a photography hobby, this is where I am at now. A high-end, full frame dSLR. Giddyap!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk8FEQsN5PmHJTOrkHS3n3cQWQK4uFe18SQ6GliUYM37ZPU7dfDRB1KFrdgOoGRMSJti2Ez3p6CdYBd_YoCRkyfkS7Rzu14L-SG8R1yFX8N8zyaQ0E2jZzVk3LY0dFRStQzc7x/s1600/IMG_0472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk8FEQsN5PmHJTOrkHS3n3cQWQK4uFe18SQ6GliUYM37ZPU7dfDRB1KFrdgOoGRMSJti2Ez3p6CdYBd_YoCRkyfkS7Rzu14L-SG8R1yFX8N8zyaQ0E2jZzVk3LY0dFRStQzc7x/s640/IMG_0472.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I mention the above cameras only to illustrate that you can great photos no matter your budget. Whether you have $200 to spend on a used camera or $3,000 to spend. Knowledge is first, camera is second.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIVtIDBzNM86_p3uhGEl2BhVI4TZDXtmx7agv-M8HcBrfbmISY9paflHFtHeqjswNlzvn3Lvm6VxgjX_o6vVSp0hSWnx4WIrW1_shO_jvIAAmdzHy4pTsApYSzjWIQsrh3So5/s1600/D75_0137-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIVtIDBzNM86_p3uhGEl2BhVI4TZDXtmx7agv-M8HcBrfbmISY9paflHFtHeqjswNlzvn3Lvm6VxgjX_o6vVSp0hSWnx4WIrW1_shO_jvIAAmdzHy4pTsApYSzjWIQsrh3So5/s640/D75_0137-2.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a basic kit lens that allows you to zoom in on kids and get great candid shots.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The above picture is a kit lens. You can get <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QJ63QDMh9M" target="_blank">great photos with a kit lens</a>. A kit lens is usually a basic (cheap) lens that comes with your <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_single-lens_reflex_camera" target="_blank">dSLR camera</a>. The above lens didn't come with the camera but the camera store had it on sale for $50 if I bought the camera. I just sold it for $75. I would say I got my money's worth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A used camera with used lenses is a fantastic option. I have sold camera equipment whenever I upgrade to fancier stuff. A basic <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_single-lens_reflex_camera" target="_blank">dSLR camera</a> is all I could afford 8 years ago. We were in a new house and money was tight. At the time, in fact, my Nikon D40 was all I needed as I didn't know a single photography term back then. I didn't know Aperture from Auto-Focus but I was willing to learn.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-S7t8e_zPzTFODarkmCzu1BFsCpBMZIeo_4sgxncVLGjdtGZelA2QDA728dUarqFFtgnD0EyEDfVNqKByVOFDiAbCWkb74mM4S2nYAwEjFlLR5kn4ZRMp2L3vM7gIc7hF13Lv/s1600/evening+fun+in+backyard+002-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-S7t8e_zPzTFODarkmCzu1BFsCpBMZIeo_4sgxncVLGjdtGZelA2QDA728dUarqFFtgnD0EyEDfVNqKByVOFDiAbCWkb74mM4S2nYAwEjFlLR5kn4ZRMp2L3vM7gIc7hF13Lv/s640/evening+fun+in+backyard+002-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D40, 55-200mm lens at 78mm, ISO 200, f/4.5, 1/320 second, edited in Adobe Lightroom<br />
You don't need a fancy location, your backyard will do just fine.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><u>Advice tip #2 You can learn all you need to know on YouTube and blogs.</u> </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> </span>The above photo is not perfect, but to me it is priceless despite the basic 6-megapexel camera. Look at those faces eight years ago and you'll know the definition of priceless. I took that shot five months after I bought the camera. At that point I had learned enough about photography from You Tube tutorials and blogs to know that <b><i>my skills mattered more than the camera</i></b>. I knew that <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRx5nX6sXqo" target="_blank">photographing children down on their level </a>always makes a better photo. So I took that photo laying on my elbows in the grass, in our backyard, just like the kids were doing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love <a href="http://froknowsphoto.com/category/quick-tip/" target="_blank">Fro Knows Photo, especially his quick tips</a>. He is hilarious. And I do recommend his <a href="http://froknowsphoto.com/fro-video-guide/" target="_blank">Beginner's Guide to Getting Out of Auto</a>, which costs around $60. His <a href="http://froknowsphoto.com/category/quick-tip/" target="_blank">Quick Tip videos</a> contain some of the same content. I also love <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/VistaClues/playlists" target="_blank">Chelsea and Tony Northrup,</a> maybe even more than Fro.</div>
<br />
When I was just starting out I also loved the blog tutorials at <a href="http://www.iheartfaces.com/tutorials/" target="_blank">I Heart Faces</a> and <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/photography/" target="_blank">Pioneer Woman</a>. Read, read, read and you'll learn, learn, learn.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCnEAvBYU9JHWefF1Trsvsb_A8dPVWpEhQvKOM0RnMJLZONN8YKPf6Gd7W7eItm1Ys9EjCkJNL6dxowISi579TzYoU_b3W_iJKHlnHzn4cqgyjL-8krKX5DAbKB1wv5BfcLgf/s1600/DC+Trip+413-2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCnEAvBYU9JHWefF1Trsvsb_A8dPVWpEhQvKOM0RnMJLZONN8YKPf6Gd7W7eItm1Ys9EjCkJNL6dxowISi579TzYoU_b3W_iJKHlnHzn4cqgyjL-8krKX5DAbKB1wv5BfcLgf/s640/DC+Trip+413-2-2.jpg" width="430" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D40, ISO 200, 55-200mm lens @60mm, f/4.5<br />
Hallie, age 5, admiring blossoms in Pennsylvania</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Below is another shot from a few years later in 2013 (in our backyard again) where I also used the same rule--<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7AOgJFMBKA" target="_blank">getting down on their level</a>. I also made sure I<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yoz5tW3WPc" target="_blank"> blurred the background by using a low aperture</a>. Once I bought my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-AF-S-NIKKOR-Focus-Cameras/dp/B001S2PPT0" target="_blank">Nikon 35mm 1.8 lens</a> I hardly used the others anymore. I love LOVED it that much--for portraits of my kids, photographing products for <a href="http://meringuedesigns.net/" target="_blank">my website</a>, and low-light indoor photography.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Four years have past between the above photo and this one below. See what I mean by priceless? My kids will never be that age again. I am so glad I took the time to learn how to take pretty good photos while they were still little.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQKhqEZzOmTKwNgrWnEliBMtBdIqFdZsc4rr3QMCzfTPq_esKwKxp6-U5NBuCqNaSnT_kiIsu0mpM9t8dDHkjKUBsWcjjmGybddXxk7msp8AirOGnANF6_PWyQZS4gkYWsiTy/s1600/D7K_2391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQKhqEZzOmTKwNgrWnEliBMtBdIqFdZsc4rr3QMCzfTPq_esKwKxp6-U5NBuCqNaSnT_kiIsu0mpM9t8dDHkjKUBsWcjjmGybddXxk7msp8AirOGnANF6_PWyQZS4gkYWsiTy/s640/D7K_2391.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D7000, Aperture Priority, ISO 250, 35mm lens, f/1.8, 1/2000 sec, edited in Adobe Lightroom<br />
I love how a breeze was blowing hair across Hallie's face. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I took the photo below using the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7AOgJFMBKA" target="_blank">'rule of thirds</a>'. I could have taken it with Ilene centered, but it wouldn't have been as interesting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Composition will change everything when you are a beginner. If you are too scared to get out of Auto mode yet, at least focus on composition for a while. Composition is way more important than your camera or your lens. As Fro says in this quick rant, <a href="http://froknowsphoto.com/largest_print_size_qualuty/" target="_blank">"a crappy photo, is a crappy photo, is a crappy photo."</a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfUFVuRmiyqYUzVghZV3Xq_xnjvaoubNcI-_YNJCMtRswCnNr_9yOoD8KS6nuI0O07TRoTo1MLcRu49la-VuvAk_20DTTBMdDxY5fS9EfntiwSyOWtL5cxShHebPPQ8zl2hJ3/s1600/evening+fun+in+backyard+008-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfUFVuRmiyqYUzVghZV3Xq_xnjvaoubNcI-_YNJCMtRswCnNr_9yOoD8KS6nuI0O07TRoTo1MLcRu49la-VuvAk_20DTTBMdDxY5fS9EfntiwSyOWtL5cxShHebPPQ8zl2hJ3/s640/evening+fun+in+backyard+008-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D40, ISO 200, 55-200mm lens at 66mm, f/4.2, Manual mode, edited in Adobe Lightroom <br />
Photos during golden hour (one hour before sunset) are the best for glowy lighting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><b><u><br /></u></b></i>
<i><b><u>Advice Tip #3 You have to edit your photos.</u></b></i> For the love of all that's holy and decent in this world, Please. Edit. Your. Photos. I prefer to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cW6cAeg5mRs" target="_blank">shoot in RAW</a> but even if you choose to shoot in JPG, you have to edit the photos. It's the difference between blah and Rah!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWN69Rf-HCANb3-kqfJb0QKyJBMLZUhUj6a5SUgAZFJXvumrQH8MUHFuL-wFjIwCZSoBAQfVsZuoM-mI24x6eVYeS3pbBFF2gEcMgPaGt8NEcHsKE7K9uJiO-9cFxPoKIaXukN/s1600/DSC_0026-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWN69Rf-HCANb3-kqfJb0QKyJBMLZUhUj6a5SUgAZFJXvumrQH8MUHFuL-wFjIwCZSoBAQfVsZuoM-mI24x6eVYeS3pbBFF2gEcMgPaGt8NEcHsKE7K9uJiO-9cFxPoKIaXukN/s640/DSC_0026-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Nikon D750, ISO 800, Tamron 24-70mm lens at 70mm, 1/1000, f/2.8, edited in Adobe Lightroom<br />Ilene in 2015 looking very grown up. And cold as daylight is almost gone in December.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtg9FDXlhqJ8uy760VGhVS9WACVvg7eZ8VwV60vNbZg3ECqKXE0hg6eM_3T-RWIxq6J9YZrsIvOAA2vm-29qcTpQEVgTkQziM0hs5iU8pOFQ3v1bVkxf8_B3xHo0bi09xEC7S/s1600/DSC_0026-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtg9FDXlhqJ8uy760VGhVS9WACVvg7eZ8VwV60vNbZg3ECqKXE0hg6eM_3T-RWIxq6J9YZrsIvOAA2vm-29qcTpQEVgTkQziM0hs5iU8pOFQ3v1bVkxf8_B3xHo0bi09xEC7S/s640/DSC_0026-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">UNEDITED RAW FILE....BLAH!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I started out using Photoshop Elements for editing and then three years ago made the best decision ever to switch to Adobe Lightroom for editing. Lightroom is easier and faster. And it keeps track of every edit you ever make to your photos so it is easy to go back and re-edit old photos as you learn new editing skills. Many of the old photos in this post were re-edited because my skills back then were seriously lacking. Get Lightroom! I just bought <a href="http://www.officedepot.com/a/products/325232/Adobe-Photoshop-Lightroom-6-WindowsMac-Download/?cm_mmc=PLA-_-Google-_-Software-_-325232-VQ6-48410623076-VQ16-c-VQ17-pla_with_promotion-VQ18-online-VQ19-325232-VQ20-87863172836-VQ21-&gclid=CMPb3-X6uMoCFUZcfgodoWAI8g" target="_blank">Lightroom 6 for $150</a> but you can do the <a href="http://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/photography.html?sdid=KKTJE&mv=search&s_kwcid=AL!3085!3!93731927178!e!!g!!adobe%20lightroom&ef_id=U3tM6gAAAIk3n-2m:20160120175512:s" target="_blank">online version</a> for $10/month. I like <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/photosincolor/videos" target="_blank">these tutorials</a> for Lightroom.<br />
<br />
Wrapping it up.........<br />
<br />
My main goal has been to capture great photos of my kids because let's face it, babies don't keep. They go from littles playing football.........<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uKHb6XsuWG1jNAHXJJsz_PsGDSDLeGmBOJj4QiPKpF-RH_2gUT5aotvYKWoIwoEvlM0dOCOtL-itJGCXnYG-XhWzyQeQsbOa7pdl-iaPv_g2eZua-BhaSpV7vqLACg2RUVsU/s1600/august+2008+pictures+049-2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uKHb6XsuWG1jNAHXJJsz_PsGDSDLeGmBOJj4QiPKpF-RH_2gUT5aotvYKWoIwoEvlM0dOCOtL-itJGCXnYG-XhWzyQeQsbOa7pdl-iaPv_g2eZua-BhaSpV7vqLACg2RUVsU/s640/august+2008+pictures+049-2-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D40, ISO 200, 55-200mm at 95mm, f/5.0, 1/400 sec, edited in Photoshop Elements<br />
Nathan age 10 camping and playing catch with Dad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To taking beautiful girls to Prom in just a handful of years. Eight years to be exact from the photo above (2008) to the one below. (2015)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl04RAqmnWtUFmXAapiR-y32VXi0T-1p8p3JbDwJ18cIHcw1IpewLs0LOd7G5mGTj8RueP7Y8e0fpXsirl1ZHHniT11zAiqkm7A3AgAq-wqqgRbNH_H7Rl79rz1_4BgaZ_l6Ou/s1600/D7K_8656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl04RAqmnWtUFmXAapiR-y32VXi0T-1p8p3JbDwJ18cIHcw1IpewLs0LOd7G5mGTj8RueP7Y8e0fpXsirl1ZHHniT11zAiqkm7A3AgAq-wqqgRbNH_H7Rl79rz1_4BgaZ_l6Ou/s640/D7K_8656.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D7000, ISO 500, 18-200mm at40mm, f/5.6, 1/100 sec, edited in Adobe Lightroom<br />
Nathan age 17 heading to Provo High Prom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I hope this has inspired you to get a new/used camera, or get the one you already have that you may not use, learn a few skills, and capture the fragile moments in life. I am happy to answer any questions in the comments section. Happy shooting!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcB8kZOwTGYfv5Xx5Mh6796GtUHU5R5mHI29b3e5_Ec_tP6co_9tg8FEjZXRvRABwBG04jWRq1y_6cgIs62rrySnjp6bRzU0L4othSXvpIIS8wppjzogqqAA8Xo7a9CerFhGvp/s1600/D7K_7856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcB8kZOwTGYfv5Xx5Mh6796GtUHU5R5mHI29b3e5_Ec_tP6co_9tg8FEjZXRvRABwBG04jWRq1y_6cgIs62rrySnjp6bRzU0L4othSXvpIIS8wppjzogqqAA8Xo7a9CerFhGvp/s640/D7K_7856.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon D7000, ISO 200, 18-300mm lens @ 27mm, f/5.6, 1/20 second, edited in Lightroom<br />
Me and my girls at the Huntington Gardens in Pasadena, California 2015</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-16163388776919353432016-01-12T12:53:00.000-07:002016-01-12T17:13:26.299-07:00Quick and Dirty Meal PlanningI cook dinner almost every night, at least 5 times a week. We are a very busy and active family of five, just like you. Well, I don't know if you have 5 in your family, but I do know everyone is stinkin' busy these days.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYmEeCQ17ZLQSNEVTA1VqMqEAZv7Pq9Kyk25Kk03LK39eYDhtH3ltsFwM1UJ8p_AuGUOwTmprsdHVrFxrk9qYuMcpixjr9tGgjdlk5mlzqGpDaGefIhEf3iJOzrqO1x3Isc00/s1600/D75_0557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYmEeCQ17ZLQSNEVTA1VqMqEAZv7Pq9Kyk25Kk03LK39eYDhtH3ltsFwM1UJ8p_AuGUOwTmprsdHVrFxrk9qYuMcpixjr9tGgjdlk5mlzqGpDaGefIhEf3iJOzrqO1x3Isc00/s640/D75_0557.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's what I used to do....skip this paragraph and the next now if you don't care. You shouldn't care. I used to dinner plan by the month. Hated it. I mean it was useful when the kids were tiny and I would rather chew broken glass than take them to the grocery store. But there wasn't much flexibility.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6t6Zeh0cmpRePN4tz2UYBIr-CE_tJU2BxPIwKR0PwhIS7W05XbRvw8N6c3b9xiekQGur2W0dN4ZyfrSHvysMckbbAyA2SkZelt7XW5YqK3TTgE7_zM1Oar0fH78cK4Ol0M1iv/s1600/D75_0556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6t6Zeh0cmpRePN4tz2UYBIr-CE_tJU2BxPIwKR0PwhIS7W05XbRvw8N6c3b9xiekQGur2W0dN4ZyfrSHvysMckbbAyA2SkZelt7XW5YqK3TTgE7_zM1Oar0fH78cK4Ol0M1iv/s640/D75_0556.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So I switched to dinner planning every 10-12 days, kind of a stepped-down version of monthly. I made 5-7 dinner plans that I could rotate around bi-weekly. Initially this took days to do--to write down everything I knew how to cook or could cook from cookbooks. In this case I tried to have some easy prep meals with more complicated weekend meals on each Menu. The only problem is, I eventually wanted to try more and more new recipes so I trashed this method too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi73f7yea9Excllh1txCUErZbW3rZXyW2yI1EhG9Su16up9zI018-dUspK8llQpSOIAcXqISbshWMiL11LsT88bIYyh2WV68q20_zHT7_lLTTTfuhTJu6mbNUOZn20KDI3rvQho/s1600/D75_0552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi73f7yea9Excllh1txCUErZbW3rZXyW2yI1EhG9Su16up9zI018-dUspK8llQpSOIAcXqISbshWMiL11LsT88bIYyh2WV68q20_zHT7_lLTTTfuhTJu6mbNUOZn20KDI3rvQho/s640/D75_0552.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's what I don't do:<br />
1. I do not scan Pinterest for recipes. They never work. Ok 90% of the time. Unless you know the bloggers recipes always work, do not be lulled in by Pinterest recipes! Pinterest and blogs have their place in meal planning, but not in 15-minute meal planning.<br />
2. I do not rip recipe pages out of magazines anymore. I just lose them.<br />
3. I do not go to the store without a dinner list. I used to go to Costco, spend $150 on groceries and then still have nothing to actually make for dinner.<br />
4. I do not read recipe books while dinner planning. More on that below.<br />
5. I do not plan lots of side dishes. More on that below.<br />
<br />
Here's what I definitely do:<br />
1. Plan 4-5 meals for the week.<br />
2. I make sure at least 2-3 are fast meals, under 30 minutes total. (On the weekends I allow myself the treat of planning more elaborate meals and I make special trips to the store for those kinda meals.)<br />
3. The others 2-3 recipes can not exceed 1 hour total unless it's a slow cooker meal or unless it can be prepped earlier in the day. Afternoons are insane when you have teenagers.<br />
4. Make sure the meals have a variety--some meat, some vegetarian, some pasta. Would I prefer pasta every night? Yes, but my thighs would not.<br />
5. Have a written list. Duh.<br />
<br />
<br />
My current method is what I call the <b><span style="font-size: large;">Quick and Dirty </span></b>and here's how it works:<br />
<br />
On Monday morning during breakfast I pick a cookbook I already love, or two cookbooks, no more, and turn to the pages I previously had marked with flags. (I read cookbooks like novels with Post-it flags while I watch TV at night.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQu8jc3kbk8cUhsweHRhS8uBWSxSHcsBFM0-4xBBHNo7x9A_tg80QyVGJ977zyikNV4T6Q5xn2bCvyo0w0ghGCgxA2ejhXv6mzgSrWJJhXyaxXPOBNTALV5r9c7GfJO9fY5QzU/s1600/D75_0559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQu8jc3kbk8cUhsweHRhS8uBWSxSHcsBFM0-4xBBHNo7x9A_tg80QyVGJ977zyikNV4T6Q5xn2bCvyo0w0ghGCgxA2ejhXv6mzgSrWJJhXyaxXPOBNTALV5r9c7GfJO9fY5QzU/s640/D75_0559.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Do not just thumb through books! That's a time killer! You have to have things marked already in books, or maybe keep a running list of things you actually know how to make without written recipes, etc. (For me that would be tacos, spaghetti, etc) I really believe this is the bottleneck in the whole process of meal planning. <b>Do not skim through books! </b>You'll spend 1-2 hours skimming, get frustrated, quit, and eat quesadillas all week.<br />
<br />
I also keep a running list in the front cover of many of my go-to cookbooks. These are recipes I have already tried that were a success and I would definitely want to make again. Scanning these lists makes the process even faster.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLLagzvCIlYBxlphm2NdZ_7jbpgMvudbHpH3XYdB_z0Cdklr9_etBXa6lDOvDV98CRa6fbxJcgGzHvWbIJ08HbZwoJiqnSh51xKD6TKf1v2SVrAwZxKjDDTEXPZBOuFk8Kc01/s1600/D75_0561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLLagzvCIlYBxlphm2NdZ_7jbpgMvudbHpH3XYdB_z0Cdklr9_etBXa6lDOvDV98CRa6fbxJcgGzHvWbIJ08HbZwoJiqnSh51xKD6TKf1v2SVrAwZxKjDDTEXPZBOuFk8Kc01/s640/D75_0561.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I also try to just think of yummy things I really wanna try and go to <a href="http://www.americastestkitchen.com/" target="_blank">America's Test Kitchen websites </a>and search out that recipe and hope they have it. No one paid me to say this--I spend $70 bucks a year to subscribe to their websites and it's the best money ever spent. My tummy is so much happier. Plus if I do ignore all my rules and go to the store without a list I can quickly open the the Cooks Illustrated app and search out my favorites.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzRpfl_DZ-v-H8p_2xI2QgbKlVg8ea6bjrRAIiOMY5AihQ3T8N2StOUq_OWd8f-9h9KiLHLxLLC1xLizNXW1d58aY41ZGXigybGyqyI-_8J4EBNZb3RMnVRGqQtnzBCrPovXj/s1600/D75_0431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzRpfl_DZ-v-H8p_2xI2QgbKlVg8ea6bjrRAIiOMY5AihQ3T8N2StOUq_OWd8f-9h9KiLHLxLLC1xLizNXW1d58aY41ZGXigybGyqyI-_8J4EBNZb3RMnVRGqQtnzBCrPovXj/s640/D75_0431.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This was last week's menu. In the upper right hand corner of the page you can see where I wrote down four meals I want to make. (I never plan more than 4-5 dinners for a week because sometimes there is not time at all to cook, sometimes we go out to eat on the weekend, or sometimes I hate my family and I say <i>"Screw you have cereal". </i><br />
<br />
On the left I write out the ingredients I need to shop for to cook that particular meal. I keep each meal separate because sometimes I can not find a particular ingredient, or one of the ingredients is too expensive, so at the grocery store I'll make the executive decision to trash that meal and therefore nix buying anymore ingredients in that section.<br />
<br />
The asterisks are ideas for side dishes, depending on time, they may not happen. I keep lots of vegetables in the fridge so I rarely write down my sides. Remember this is Quick and Dirty Meal Planning, don't get bogged down in the details. If you have your main dishes planned the sides take care of themselves as time permits--bagged salad, sliced fruit, frozen peas.<br />
<br />
Don't make the rookie mistake of thinking every meal has to have every dish planned out. Martha does not live in my house or yours.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg95hpaFTUiNP1B99eAQ3xLDQFwt4Uwk4OBShq27ef0h7tQJ-2Wxtys07v4NobxkoMU8I3V4flCeo6S_Z7iXXWuXc92C6bUr6wuTa0dq5RNP3mK5YVIyM2nmzi4w5EECRhrmHf_/s1600/D75_0433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg95hpaFTUiNP1B99eAQ3xLDQFwt4Uwk4OBShq27ef0h7tQJ-2Wxtys07v4NobxkoMU8I3V4flCeo6S_Z7iXXWuXc92C6bUr6wuTa0dq5RNP3mK5YVIyM2nmzi4w5EECRhrmHf_/s640/D75_0433.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
However, I am flexible (see the screw you comment above) so if I see whole chickens are on sale, and I swear they <i>never</i> go on sale, I must roast chicken that week. I simply must. So butterflied roasted chicken became our 5th meal last week.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGr9sd2eteav6RmVZ_uDdsTP4AcnJcgkEIK2-YjqlsKhpvypI9Kl_tBAq7hqyeQUntbum_UWJVYL53cjC5lTlqNKwdxSs27sdsGFwZDk6V03k3nUGZkBFvVuv2b9S8sI3M0w0/s1600/IMG_0505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGr9sd2eteav6RmVZ_uDdsTP4AcnJcgkEIK2-YjqlsKhpvypI9Kl_tBAq7hqyeQUntbum_UWJVYL53cjC5lTlqNKwdxSs27sdsGFwZDk6V03k3nUGZkBFvVuv2b9S8sI3M0w0/s400/IMG_0505.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabbDLekag6F6yzTMukn0w3WYIql4tSBae3ktu3-lm307I2rWea2biGsXX-THxOditczRfYLIpTht2UmreGzttHteD4MHNmWYEt1Mzr4fbvq23FnI6jllCJmNw5YiLntfP3w3g/s1600/D75_0476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabbDLekag6F6yzTMukn0w3WYIql4tSBae3ktu3-lm307I2rWea2biGsXX-THxOditczRfYLIpTht2UmreGzttHteD4MHNmWYEt1Mzr4fbvq23FnI6jllCJmNw5YiLntfP3w3g/s640/D75_0476.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This planning process, if you can call it that, takes 15-20 minutes. That's all. And obviously it is only for dinner. I do not meal plan breakfast or lunch unless it is a special occasion.<br />
<br />
For all other non-dinner groceries I need I keep a running list on the "Paperless" app on my iPhone. U update it throughout the week as we run out of staples.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMd8rGxXHZU2pde8JZss4XNjCejaJLbCzU89xaSuIzwdPyja4phC4alEkKps_ACHEcfRQDsSzW6HAjKElPRPRVWAi2Kmg-fBAXmg2lIZFrnxsrEVXUs1DZyddBv8OWjKUCPj6h/s1600/IMG_0542.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMd8rGxXHZU2pde8JZss4XNjCejaJLbCzU89xaSuIzwdPyja4phC4alEkKps_ACHEcfRQDsSzW6HAjKElPRPRVWAi2Kmg-fBAXmg2lIZFrnxsrEVXUs1DZyddBv8OWjKUCPj6h/s320/IMG_0542.PNG" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbcxR9INDZ5XM-_WojEln2kCHQ-jem4Js1wAQNfypk_k3ue1o7DDZVDAqW4KpcXBXPuiC2mERxL135h-8uU2njJmEujAxcp0SWlEy-9-aAZmkxtUQf3RxRLYY1kZJ72CTPSroB/s1600/IMG_0543.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbcxR9INDZ5XM-_WojEln2kCHQ-jem4Js1wAQNfypk_k3ue1o7DDZVDAqW4KpcXBXPuiC2mERxL135h-8uU2njJmEujAxcp0SWlEy-9-aAZmkxtUQf3RxRLYY1kZJ72CTPSroB/s320/IMG_0543.PNG" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If it's a good week I grocery shop at two stores--usually at the local grocery store and Costco. Otherwise, I hit the regular grocery store if there's a time crunch. Or if I just don't have it in me to go to two stores. Remember Quick and Dirty--you should be able to shop at just one store.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-wYr4LOK420ip58mjalnIlMF23rcvC177ZvYe9UzRRem0URBUw2pIxcy-HYHoL_6UQCCI5akCaDh1kJ1UGjIh4PM093UAjrZ42GB4JjpS4V1HNN-pdsFK8zEA2gokvTSd0gPS/s1600/D75_0450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-wYr4LOK420ip58mjalnIlMF23rcvC177ZvYe9UzRRem0URBUw2pIxcy-HYHoL_6UQCCI5akCaDh1kJ1UGjIh4PM093UAjrZ42GB4JjpS4V1HNN-pdsFK8zEA2gokvTSd0gPS/s640/D75_0450.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Then my list gets folded up and stuck to the refrigerator for the week for reference.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaiCv4AIchyphenhyphenRRShV3zPiVxTkdn55KEsK5mL_YUqBQiRqh9Rc4OUmdTwiXPXzLAPUJLT5d9IXOoN-pdqgGIfsdQbRaFdBn9xJvyfSBh7jmmkgHbE09N5VtSBWR_slL7JIryhfa/s1600/D75_0435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaiCv4AIchyphenhyphenRRShV3zPiVxTkdn55KEsK5mL_YUqBQiRqh9Rc4OUmdTwiXPXzLAPUJLT5d9IXOoN-pdqgGIfsdQbRaFdBn9xJvyfSBh7jmmkgHbE09N5VtSBWR_slL7JIryhfa/s640/D75_0435.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I mark the page for each recipe so I can easily find that recipe again. For this particular week all my recipes came from one book <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Make-Ahead-Cook-Americas-Kitchen/dp/1936493845" target="_blank">The Make-Ahead Cook</a></i> and <a href="http://www.americastestkitchen.com/" target="_blank">America's Test kitchen websites</a>.<br />
<br />
And that my friends is how this busy mom plans a week of home cooked meals in 20 minutes a week. We do not eat out. We do not order pizza. We don't have any good options for pizza delivery in Provo Utah anyway. They all bite. For those lazy days we eat quesadillas, or pancakes and once-in-a-while leftovers. My family won't eat leftovers anyway. It makes me angry.<br />
<br />
Please keep in mind <i><b><span style="font-size: large;">I have been cooking dinner for 21 years</span></b></i>. If you are just starting out at menu planning, try as hard as you can to think of what will work for you. Maybe cooking just 2 dinners a week is all you can take at first. That's ok!<br />
<br />
Eating at home is always healthier, cheaper, and I believe yummier. <b>You can do it!</b><br />
<br />
In case you are curious, here's what we ate last week:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cooksillustrated.com/recipes/6262-black-bean-chili?ref=new_search_experience_1" target="_blank">Black Beans Chili</a> with <a href="http://www.cooksillustrated.com/recipes/8205-savory-corn-muffins?extcode=MASCZ00L0&ref=search_results_2" target="_blank">Corn Muffins</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0SrzgKse9JptrW2DUVqkQJxuIwfzENFLEmojkEjTIN1iNBaH0DJRcIogL0a_v_qLLg-fQDbbNNFgLFlFVgQ01zpjAU-_gYlkt8-s2rK_nnY8GtqrcT7jBW4auqwBoa0Xn45uB/s1600/D75_0470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0SrzgKse9JptrW2DUVqkQJxuIwfzENFLEmojkEjTIN1iNBaH0DJRcIogL0a_v_qLLg-fQDbbNNFgLFlFVgQ01zpjAU-_gYlkt8-s2rK_nnY8GtqrcT7jBW4auqwBoa0Xn45uB/s640/D75_0470.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.cooksillustrated.com/recipes/1633-sesame-noodles-with-shredded-chicken?ref=new_search_experience_1&incode=MCSCD00L0" target="_blank">Sesame Noodles</a> made with leftover roasted chicken and Asian Slaw (just a bag of cole slaw and Asian salad dressing):<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3u8k4eLp6O3xDs73O6zoOdjUsNOD9h8QirPPh6ftHhJ3Z4LzfZ61DJX3188Hzk3NcDqety0JZ3i5unP0dKmAmNKxhY23yyEGXe0rbTqCCCfWkPswebBirRvCY3br7GDZ3R0cD/s1600/D75_0510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3u8k4eLp6O3xDs73O6zoOdjUsNOD9h8QirPPh6ftHhJ3Z4LzfZ61DJX3188Hzk3NcDqety0JZ3i5unP0dKmAmNKxhY23yyEGXe0rbTqCCCfWkPswebBirRvCY3br7GDZ3R0cD/s640/D75_0510.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.cookscountry.com/recipes/7624-chicken-baked-in-foil-with-potatoes-and-carrots?ref=new_search_experience_1&extcode=MCSKD10L0" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.cookscountry.com/recipes/7624-chicken-baked-in-foil-with-potatoes-and-carrots?ref=new_search_experience_1&extcode=MCSKD10L0" target="_blank">Chicken in Foil with Potatoes and Carrots</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXvU3gGiim7-3zBKZnMbIM3txvDtnc3o62paXCCkmrDZDqCWTvxuihMv3dJ2u5iSkeYGe3oQFwhSrcj2Hwnl5mg16l4tkeYEbIbMDHKmuM5myb_7aYN-9_8b0ruRoXUgyXPC7/s1600/D75_0442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXvU3gGiim7-3zBKZnMbIM3txvDtnc3o62paXCCkmrDZDqCWTvxuihMv3dJ2u5iSkeYGe3oQFwhSrcj2Hwnl5mg16l4tkeYEbIbMDHKmuM5myb_7aYN-9_8b0ruRoXUgyXPC7/s640/D75_0442.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And Slow-cooker Beef and Barley Soup. I forgot to take a picture of that one!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ygZhdAQVr9U4Lz1yyGbmEI-FCX20iY73Av34HAN2UMA-n_PZZ_Tc8JGloX758rrSQ6QnGCJbP28VjVX35BDBbCu-4bQD7vpPjyzpYXVAyyYLMcb7ViKfMKIFJOoEK5BE9ix8/s1600/D75_0558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ygZhdAQVr9U4Lz1yyGbmEI-FCX20iY73Av34HAN2UMA-n_PZZ_Tc8JGloX758rrSQ6QnGCJbP28VjVX35BDBbCu-4bQD7vpPjyzpYXVAyyYLMcb7ViKfMKIFJOoEK5BE9ix8/s640/D75_0558.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-51960895177888454632015-12-24T14:52:00.001-07:002015-12-24T15:28:33.521-07:00The Winward Super Lazy Christmas CardThis ain’t no Christmas card. I am too tired for that. But this is our
Christmas blog…. a sort of quiz called “Who did NOT and who DID?” <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDiZlziHK1Ngu9RLB-EniXwtv18xA9uBuUoji46kzrh93KWJxESzc6EkQ_j3iFyE2thxOnsIcKenaJV9PclSq00KJSvndOcqC6PTbhtRXlfmT4knuL1_h5tG1Y8Hv2DDtySe6/s1600/D75_0294-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDiZlziHK1Ngu9RLB-EniXwtv18xA9uBuUoji46kzrh93KWJxESzc6EkQ_j3iFyE2thxOnsIcKenaJV9PclSq00KJSvndOcqC6PTbhtRXlfmT4knuL1_h5tG1Y8Hv2DDtySe6/s640/D75_0294-2.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Which Winward did NOT go running one single time this year?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEf8V8i-CQ__ZUEwoJokWnCSXXvHKcqcLLaDeCVCZJq7Y7RATDaqUGU8jelJwsxnOMFaxXnI-CVsVhLS2TmkKBbqqQPe9F3Cz4CclxWvc3HD7juI8fSVXXXD7tm6WPuMVesjpn/s1600/D7K_8939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEf8V8i-CQ__ZUEwoJokWnCSXXvHKcqcLLaDeCVCZJq7Y7RATDaqUGU8jelJwsxnOMFaxXnI-CVsVhLS2TmkKBbqqQPe9F3Cz4CclxWvc3HD7juI8fSVXXXD7tm6WPuMVesjpn/s640/D7K_8939.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Hallie but she IS getting pretty good at paddle ball…..but Nathan and Ilene
DID run hundreds of miles this year training with the Provo High Cross Country
team. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzcroPe4PFD06Lp6ZTgTAw-e4wQdxM8XiQOUh9Vf7CF53QbPzYCJVYsxBVAlqghlgOkhyphenhyphenMMjxHvBjRps6pZnKns0g6tSZLaj3J7EpSf4gGlFHC1Id_qH3sqUEJim_F22-FZxh/s1600/IMG_9480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzcroPe4PFD06Lp6ZTgTAw-e4wQdxM8XiQOUh9Vf7CF53QbPzYCJVYsxBVAlqghlgOkhyphenhyphenMMjxHvBjRps6pZnKns0g6tSZLaj3J7EpSf4gGlFHC1Id_qH3sqUEJim_F22-FZxh/s640/IMG_9480.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Sometimes in pink socks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5BolWDW8BITPCtjEwdM76aktQA_TNs7Nj1in4H90tzSq5c1VlMvw0gV_kzvXcIPPdnOi-Yls1SgyP7GjmELUrkqKODuXq9D6cby_ZyMgnaroC6qOyc1mI-4Wm24tJuvPWWnE/s1600/IMG_9546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5BolWDW8BITPCtjEwdM76aktQA_TNs7Nj1in4H90tzSq5c1VlMvw0gV_kzvXcIPPdnOi-Yls1SgyP7GjmELUrkqKODuXq9D6cby_ZyMgnaroC6qOyc1mI-4Wm24tJuvPWWnE/s400/IMG_9546.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg9MG8X9I1BECsK-FBzuMQqFuX_cljibQmMxnVy7KlK7gTwrle2CA6t9vnTqqJvx6eQCeKoSBEygXGmCLD0_vOYbZuHzdTs6XgNwa0tR5Sy1TP_Hs_9PdTZzUMhb6xfguSurSa/s1600/D7K_9333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg9MG8X9I1BECsK-FBzuMQqFuX_cljibQmMxnVy7KlK7gTwrle2CA6t9vnTqqJvx6eQCeKoSBEygXGmCLD0_vOYbZuHzdTs6XgNwa0tR5Sy1TP_Hs_9PdTZzUMhb6xfguSurSa/s640/D7K_9333.jpg" width="416" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Which Winward did NOT get to reenact a family photo at the Long Beach
Aquarium?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZfSb_2JG1V7typsu_0yVB2GbF0xbD-fgneSudZ0Mzvf6uHR9vYO1_zfqmoyjJq-h8aWX7CryuD8HVUobdT5qTYr2i03E3QZL8jjW44AYVYV6oDFz7yfIUToKGQDP1JKKuYavB/s1600/D7K_9430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZfSb_2JG1V7typsu_0yVB2GbF0xbD-fgneSudZ0Mzvf6uHR9vYO1_zfqmoyjJq-h8aWX7CryuD8HVUobdT5qTYr2i03E3QZL8jjW44AYVYV6oDFz7yfIUToKGQDP1JKKuYavB/s640/D7K_9430.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hallie did NOT, she wasn’t born yet for the original but she DID makes tons
o’ Jello for her science fair project…..But the rest of us DID!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrYLotO-EmlBw-raf5PlXiUhx_YE6mU8BS6pV-VXUzYR9tv-34dJSC__c4Ikkwwgtv2sXY71eWHad5O4kibWS1SpkXEvzxA69n3SDeM3cUHfpusW8sOOHT9LqAf4G8ihVo3GD/s1600/long+beach+aquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrYLotO-EmlBw-raf5PlXiUhx_YE6mU8BS6pV-VXUzYR9tv-34dJSC__c4Ikkwwgtv2sXY71eWHad5O4kibWS1SpkXEvzxA69n3SDeM3cUHfpusW8sOOHT9LqAf4G8ihVo3GD/s640/long+beach+aquarium.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Which Winward did NOT teach an accounting class at <a href="http://home.byu.edu/home/" target="_blank">BYU</a>?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmL5z5jlTKkrX6GWflT5g-qMIuX3bxOsAQME1O5VjbMWe30c6c9vLGSSHD8hlCBltAtmrJH05Cm6GufEmkFW5nOzBV51PRunsPBVMfP6A3S2EBdK8DR2nP1GqgUcs3vjQk6wK/s1600/D7K_9003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmL5z5jlTKkrX6GWflT5g-qMIuX3bxOsAQME1O5VjbMWe30c6c9vLGSSHD8hlCBltAtmrJH05Cm6GufEmkFW5nOzBV51PRunsPBVMfP6A3S2EBdK8DR2nP1GqgUcs3vjQk6wK/s640/D7K_9003.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Nathan did NOT, but he did apply to <a href="http://home.byu.edu/home/" target="_blank">BYU</a>, <a href="http://www.utah.edu/" target="_blank">University
of Utah</a>, and <a href="http://www.uvu.edu/" target="_blank">UVU</a> for next
fall. But Paul did! He even ended up on BYUs Snapchat account.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9CKjSYu3JAFbNk96GhuZr8vd4Nhpb513uw3xgkd4yiWIg_R3Jp9bVBHZXLY6sEqPUUd4onZQg4NjIn3oKtXtr08XdzJtf4ftWqaw5HVQXurZKXQ29gzyJKpF8EQLt4mwbThq/s1600/12219483_10208236713740529_6111924341636481689_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9CKjSYu3JAFbNk96GhuZr8vd4Nhpb513uw3xgkd4yiWIg_R3Jp9bVBHZXLY6sEqPUUd4onZQg4NjIn3oKtXtr08XdzJtf4ftWqaw5HVQXurZKXQ29gzyJKpF8EQLt4mwbThq/s640/12219483_10208236713740529_6111924341636481689_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Which Winwards DID have coffee for the first time?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QM27ifeVXXtd_Dl0Jn0WAWl5a8GOt1mY1jcMzcLNGFcC1XIhclxwEmzANZAp12l_u4hUxe7iEEcGBl8UOmsCDsLcYYhBYkFP4p9OdKxmIB2bZZ7ytw_bmJmmm4u_N6cG3aTE/s1600/IMG_9092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QM27ifeVXXtd_Dl0Jn0WAWl5a8GOt1mY1jcMzcLNGFcC1XIhclxwEmzANZAp12l_u4hUxe7iEEcGBl8UOmsCDsLcYYhBYkFP4p9OdKxmIB2bZZ7ytw_bmJmmm4u_N6cG3aTE/s400/IMG_9092.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Ilene and Cynthia! They ordered caramel shakes at Starbucks in Hollywood and
didn’t know coffee was an ingredient. Ilene threw hers away but Cynthia drank
hers anyway. Oops!<br />
<br />
Which Winward did NOT go to Prom?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOlq7C22yX0TXA-bg3oSCTz7Bdv2ZYH4RwptqSKtsIsnQjNHHcB99RAmwcjHVm_KEahkY4PgbtToBa8sUuzG1jEovezTeiCsfn3a8daD7w6OZvIuKRBVJYug_6RaEdi_7QY_aW/s1600/D7K_7827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOlq7C22yX0TXA-bg3oSCTz7Bdv2ZYH4RwptqSKtsIsnQjNHHcB99RAmwcjHVm_KEahkY4PgbtToBa8sUuzG1jEovezTeiCsfn3a8daD7w6OZvIuKRBVJYug_6RaEdi_7QY_aW/s640/D7K_7827.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Hallie did NOT, although she did play the ukulele by a campfire on New Year's Day......but Nathan did and doesn't he look sharp?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjmAYFbwrQQXOzWcLgnH0mWSPLTG9QPy3NKeR2er4wPMU3BPohbj5fJXTmHdgnssmVQRCbW71EWaBIUlwfSDWQbVU7pMgSWr96KNYC3APIhfU0WfHEyltdh4omozwpgwQmiHgG/s1600/D7K_8659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjmAYFbwrQQXOzWcLgnH0mWSPLTG9QPy3NKeR2er4wPMU3BPohbj5fJXTmHdgnssmVQRCbW71EWaBIUlwfSDWQbVU7pMgSWr96KNYC3APIhfU0WfHEyltdh4omozwpgwQmiHgG/s640/D7K_8659.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Which Winwards did not leave the country?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwInNedWal83fKEjlumCnh_bcfPx44cgnRYoQTSZaMaV_54LCU72PPwRPp7WiDWz5aPguQ5Blw1YPdsLZlBbCzZSViXojH8Dv-t7QFer317LbYiuLTyVw79GQ8cQd79wAdJ2X/s1600/D75_0242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwInNedWal83fKEjlumCnh_bcfPx44cgnRYoQTSZaMaV_54LCU72PPwRPp7WiDWz5aPguQ5Blw1YPdsLZlBbCzZSViXojH8Dv-t7QFer317LbYiuLTyVw79GQ8cQd79wAdJ2X/s640/D75_0242.jpg" width="604" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nathan, Ilene, and Hallie did NOT but they did go to see the lights in Salt Lake City at temple square which is almost the same thing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHB7GFydL4nnaqxlBZmBrxraWBLGw8xo_4Av6FS8py_F9ioyQBxFxcMO3Me84RmmcO7jzZQDU-2jy-07pnHVLEr_aueN7oD9S8_NTWqKteOgBiorIMmfkPr6n0JSRGIc6HGlJ/s1600/cancun-9529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHB7GFydL4nnaqxlBZmBrxraWBLGw8xo_4Av6FS8py_F9ioyQBxFxcMO3Me84RmmcO7jzZQDU-2jy-07pnHVLEr_aueN7oD9S8_NTWqKteOgBiorIMmfkPr6n0JSRGIc6HGlJ/s640/cancun-9529.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
But Paul and Cynthia did go to Mexico<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSwsg3SVDuYfgjtqvn6rgZn8Gl0O9Av6EXIy8Bdusq2aJqmV68LQDhy6fkXEvz833U0woQGs9yHDd90KT3JaC4ruGcK2b2a3lN2NByvg4mO4haLYkVgzryWce9-Nc8y7EFsnh/s1600/D7K_8247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSwsg3SVDuYfgjtqvn6rgZn8Gl0O9Av6EXIy8Bdusq2aJqmV68LQDhy6fkXEvz833U0woQGs9yHDd90KT3JaC4ruGcK2b2a3lN2NByvg4mO4haLYkVgzryWce9-Nc8y7EFsnh/s640/D7K_8247.jpg" width="409" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
……..………..and Israel.<br />
<br />
<br />
Which Winward did not get braces this year?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sQGpMJ4wlyy869vwUxXpOjUDoB3Q4GIpCZPU-btQRHksXxsAYV98oeJ94IGHif9ygz7nSNxUM347lcWzs8Gmy3QgnqYDMisXG0RswGGCV-nmGMySuB_Pja2-Liv3YvvXGzAO/s1600/IMG_0075.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sQGpMJ4wlyy869vwUxXpOjUDoB3Q4GIpCZPU-btQRHksXxsAYV98oeJ94IGHif9ygz7nSNxUM347lcWzs8Gmy3QgnqYDMisXG0RswGGCV-nmGMySuB_Pja2-Liv3YvvXGzAO/s640/IMG_0075.PNG" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Nathan did NOT (his came off) although he did wear shades during a race or
two. But Hallie DID in August! Aren’t they cute on her?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTgTAThv6UGOfrjtlQYFk0SxoGjZRP32kLU92q7khXKQ1zVa24bDpWuHFREPbybzoA-9ey69qv7vYcAH86qk0HzG3XTJ_R1No_C28MJAVom628cFqlAbQrMpjUwyKNrbqw_gus/s1600/D7K_9303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTgTAThv6UGOfrjtlQYFk0SxoGjZRP32kLU92q7khXKQ1zVa24bDpWuHFREPbybzoA-9ey69qv7vYcAH86qk0HzG3XTJ_R1No_C28MJAVom628cFqlAbQrMpjUwyKNrbqw_gus/s640/D7K_9303.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
That's it folks!<br />
<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUrmw4kpUTXOWh5U4MF_WJKxqqGFcMwNAHFSoH3J-eP11NGYhMYdLAZr3BLDvNVy506FgLspa4Ra7_3NWxBG3vvXDDZcbWelvd4WEWR217V_7L6PkAwLuccXwCqDOqWtb7Kgia/s1600/D75_0279-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUrmw4kpUTXOWh5U4MF_WJKxqqGFcMwNAHFSoH3J-eP11NGYhMYdLAZr3BLDvNVy506FgLspa4Ra7_3NWxBG3vvXDDZcbWelvd4WEWR217V_7L6PkAwLuccXwCqDOqWtb7Kgia/s640/D75_0279-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14261219.post-42408178061614707962015-11-18T18:15:00.001-07:002015-11-18T18:46:06.059-07:00Chewy Brownies<p>Who doesn’t like a good chewy brownie made from a mix..…only the ones made from a box aren’t very chocolate-y. In comes <a href="https://www.cooksillustrated.com/recipes/5873-chewy-brownies" target="_blank">this recipe</a> from the folks at America’s Test Kitchen. These brownies have it all! And with three types of chocolate it is sure to please chocolate lovers.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Avf_3qKcCDk/Vk0inxVZ3UI/AAAAAAAAIk4/1_1Cuh4NXNk/s1600-h/D7K_9414%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="D7K_9414" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="D7K_9414" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Okpxwnxg2tU/Vk0ioayLXQI/AAAAAAAAIk8/SmB-4WBibeE/D7K_9414_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="424" /></a></p> <p>See those spots of melted bittersweet chocolate in there? A nice added bonus stirred in at the end.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-02-fRk-dx1o/Vk0io0yxUpI/AAAAAAAAIlE/lQpQha9v6ns/s1600-h/D7K_9403%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="D7K_9403" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="D7K_9403" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ndcCbLRUbZI/Vk0ipBmXQCI/AAAAAAAAIlI/iX-7SYudW0o/D7K_9403_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="424" /></a></p> <p>Notice in this picture all that chocolate! I like to use Hershey’s Special Dark Dutch cocoa (mmmm dark chocolate brownies) but I have made these several times with regular cocoa powder. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZwNzdNu5aEE/Vk0ipbtmDbI/AAAAAAAAIlM/gsx2-SexGOI/s1600-h/D7K_9407%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="D7K_9407" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="D7K_9407" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h9Kpb93T1Z4/Vk0iqPg61kI/AAAAAAAAIlU/z675M50nW7g/D7K_9407_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="424" /></a></p> <p>Make a sling out of parchment paper or foil to make removing them extra easy.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IElNamP2jLA/Vk0iqS_DL3I/AAAAAAAAIlY/Xeal7nWr7SE/s1600-h/D7K_9408%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="D7K_9408" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="D7K_9408" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-InXlWuWcnAU/Vk0iq4WqxKI/AAAAAAAAIlc/Fs6eDTrq4Og/D7K_9408_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="424" /></a></p> <p>Look at that shiny crackly sugary crust.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G0l19IgR5I8/Vk0irJ7cmtI/AAAAAAAAIlg/Y8E3z_cstvg/s1600-h/D7K_9419%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="D7K_9419" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="D7K_9419" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZhKi_iazFOk/Vk0irky75vI/AAAAAAAAIlk/THM5egExsE4/D7K_9419_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="424" /></a></p> <p>And all those gooey chocolate bits push these over the top. These are adult brownies, and expensive with all that chocolate, but so worth it.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wzu6XkjhyAQ/Vk0iryhkT9I/AAAAAAAAIlo/0nqGvfbFARM/s1600-h/D7K_9413%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="D7K_9413" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="D7K_9413" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m8n7foOzwkI/Vk0iseadFJI/AAAAAAAAIls/kQIY7URXDtA/D7K_9413_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="424" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><b><a href="http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/7680165/chewy-brownies-pdf-1-2-meg?da=y" target="_blank">(click here for printable version)</a></b></p> <p><b><u>CHEWY BROWNIES</u></b></p> <p>⅓ cup cocoa powder (Dutch-processed if possible, I use Hershey’s Special Dark)</p> <p>½ cup plus 2 tablespoons boiling water</p> <p>2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped </p> <p>4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted</p> <p>½ cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil</p> <p>2 large eggs</p> <p>2 large egg yolks</p> <p>2 teaspoons vanilla extract</p> <p>2 ½ cups (17 ½ ounces) sugar (I only use 2 cups for high altitude plus I prefer less sweet)</p> <p>1 ¾ cups (8 ¾ ounces) unbleached all-purpose flour</p> <p>¾ teaspoon table salt</p> <p>6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips (I have used semi-sweet chocolate chips in a pinch)</p> <p>1. Adjust oven rack to lowest position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Make a foil or parchment sling for a 9x13-inch baking pan, pushing it into corners and up sides of pan; allow excess to overhang pan edges. Spray pan with nonstick cooking spray.</p> <p>2. Whisk cocoa and boiling water together in large bowl until smooth. Add unsweetened chocolate and whisk until chocolate is melted. Whisk in melted butter and oil. (Mixture may look curdled.) Add eggs, yolks, and vanilla and continue to whisk until smooth and homogeneous. Whisk in sugar until fully incorporated. Add flour and salt and mix with rubber spatula until combined. Fold in bittersweet chocolate pieces.</p> <p>3. Scrape batter into prepared pan and bake until toothpick inserted halfway between edge and center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool completely if you can stand the wait!</p> <p><a href="https://www.cooksillustrated.com/recipes/5873-chewy-brownies" target="_blank">Original recipe from cooksillustrated.com</a></p> Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04349687071580858191noreply@blogger.com0