tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57820007234155831782024-02-21T06:24:51.434-08:00A Cozy Cottage in the City{living a vintage inspired life in the city}A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-74094379858094977332015-07-01T10:23:00.000-07:002015-07-01T10:23:58.096-07:00Cozy Cottage Updates<center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPtx_gQd0jCJM4iT-cbOtEae4HrImn6VLnR_qDzt8DB70UQJ0i7DoYya62vd20izanGZuFGSTcXsB4lBF0GbhdBLU1t25d6TWcQIH5UAByqczSGDQwuu3Gc2S3ePJzF16uZTgltXVL-U/s1600/Hydrangeas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPtx_gQd0jCJM4iT-cbOtEae4HrImn6VLnR_qDzt8DB70UQJ0i7DoYya62vd20izanGZuFGSTcXsB4lBF0GbhdBLU1t25d6TWcQIH5UAByqczSGDQwuu3Gc2S3ePJzF16uZTgltXVL-U/s320/Hydrangeas.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<font size="4">Hello everyone! I know it's been awhile since I last posted {school & my studies, have been a bit crazy over on this end}, but thought I'd share some quick cozy cottage updates. Below is a photo of what our house and front yard looked like when we first moved in.<br />
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Below is a photo of what it currently looks like:<br />
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As you can see, it has come a long way. We of course replaced all of the windows in our house with more energy efficient ones. That was one of the first things we put our money into and invested in. <br />
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Next, I dug holes and planted white iceberg roses a year after we moved in. The perennials and annuals were added along the way. I also put some seasonal blooms in the window boxes - I love that they were original to the house! <br />
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Finally, just last May, we finally had our home painted a deep gray (after living there for nearly 4 years!). At first, I thought it was too dark - but once the trim came along, I thought the deep color looked classic. So happy to get rid of that hideous green!<br />
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My husband is in the process of making custom shutters and trim for the front main windows. When he's done, I'll post more photos. <br />
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We also made a few changes to the porch. Here is what it looked like before:<br />
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Now here's what it looks like today with some new paint and decorative touches:<br />
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I painted our door a soft teal. I'll show better pictures of it next time. The trim around the door is still unfinished, so once that's done - hopefully I can share with you better photos. <br />
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Our 1950's stucco is crooked, so in order to properly install the trim, we have to fix that first. Anyway, that's all for now. You can find me these days on my instagram page at <a href="http://instagram.com/socal.vintage">SoCal.Vintage</a>. I also just reactivated my <a href="http://facebook.com/acozycottageinthecity">Facebook Fan page</a>. I'll be posting future updates over there, when I don't have time to blog - so you can "like my page," if you wish. :)<br />
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Until next time, have a great rest of the week! Would love to hear from you! Please leave me a comment below to say "hi," as I know it's been awhile! <br />
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XOXO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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Sharing with:<br />
<a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2015/06/wow-us-wednesdays-228.html">Wow it Wednesday @Savvy Southern Style</a><br />
<a href="http://ivyandelephants.blogspot.com/2015/07/give-little-squeeze.html">What's It Wednesday @Ivy & Elephants</a><br />
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A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-54618766897139713022013-10-23T12:00:00.000-07:002013-11-15T09:16:07.217-08:00A Shabby Chic Affair Part II<center><font size="4">Hello everyone! I know it's been a very long while since my last post. But thought I'd share just a few pictures from the Rachel Ashwell Book Signing last October 10th in Santa Monica. <br />
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The last time I went to one of her events was exactly 2 years ago when her book, <a href="https://www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com/p-100-autographed-rachel-ashwell-shabby-chic-inspirations-beautiful-spaces.aspx" target="_blank"><b>"Shabby Chic Inspirations"</b></a> was published. This time around, I was here for her latest inspiration, <a href="https://www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com/p-834-autographed-rachel-ashwell-couture-prairie-and-flea-market-treasures-new.aspx" target="_blank"><b><font color="purple">"Rachel Ashwell Couture Prairie & Flea Market Treasures!"</font></b></a> And let me tell you, there is so much eye candy! :)<br />
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Before I begin, I just want to note that I lost my camera months ago - so all of these photos were taken on my iPhone. So please excuse me if the quality isn't that great. <br />
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It was starting to get dark as well, so not a lot of natural lighting wasn't helping either. So I apologize in advance if these photos are not as crisp & clear.<br />
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So now where were we?<br />
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Ah yes, well when you first walk in, you are greeted by a lovely barrel of floral pretties {yes, just like in her prairie book!}. As I began to walk further in, my heart began to beat faster as I came across each yummy item in her store! <br />
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By the way, this happens to me each and every time I enter this lovely place!<br />
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I saw her from afar and quickly got in line to have my book signed. But not before I snapped a photo of this lovely table setting.<br />
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Don't you just love this table and all of the shabby chic linen goodies?!?!<br />
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As I approached Rachel, the first thing I did was ask if I could give her a hug {she was so kind enough to let me!}. She is just so amazing and absolutely down to earth!<br />
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We chatted for a bit and the subject of "Instagram" came up! We were discussing how much easier it was to just snap a photo on your phone and then posting it, vs. a blog post or keeping up with Facebook.<br />
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And when she asked me what my <a href="http://instagram.com/acozycottageinthecity" target="_blank"><b>Instagram username</b></a> was, I was very humbled and excited to hear that she knew of my account! Really? Well, that was extremely flattering! My photos are just so & so compared to all of the talented bloggers and Instagram users out there, so it really did mean a lot to me that she would recognize <a href="http://instagram.com/acozycottageinthecity target="_blank"><b>"A Cozy Cottage in the City!"</b></a><br />
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She then kindly signed my copy of her latest publication! <br />
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I also was able to meet the very lovely <a href="http://instagram.com/janisfaye" target="_blank"><b>"Janis Faye"</b></a> - a very sweet RA staff member who I came across on Instagram and had the pleasure of meeting in person. <br />
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Here is a photo of Rachel and I. Doesn't she look fabulous? I swear, she never ages!<br />
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By the way, I went with my wonderful sister - but she won't let me post a public photo of her on here. But I thank her for coming with me to the signing! :)<br />
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After everyone had their books signed, we had the opportunity to have a personal Q & A session with Rachel. I have to tell you that I absolutely LOVED hearing her funny and inspirational stories; I just adore her even more. :)<br />
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I also want to add that Rachel's dear father was also there at the signing and she introduced him to all of us. Towards the end of the night, Rachel's daughter - Lily Ashwell also came by as well. It was really all surreal to see so much inspiration in one place. :)<br />
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Throughout the evening we enjoyed the most cutest, prairie cupcakes and tasty refreshments, served up in these fabulous glass jars.<br />
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I honestly felt "at home" sitting on those soft cozy sofas, listening to the queen of Shabby Chic chat with her loyal fans. :) <br />
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I could literally be in her store all day just soaking in all of the loveliness. <br />
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And with all those pretty, mushy linens, who could blame me?!?! ;)<br />
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I wish I could have taken more pics, but that just about concludes my experience at a "Shabby Chic Affair Part II." If you want to read more about my "first Shabby Chic Affair" then <a href="http://acozycottageinthecity.blogspot.com/2011/10/shabby-chic-affair.html" target="_blank"><b>click here</b></a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjKbd8W8CwBHANlW_x9ZzDt92kS-c9fyS05Uz9PfhBI_7n080q-59hD9DRk00kz5fJP5AzfM0_z_gQFmuxTyl91C4Eyz72jhmIH2bVgoNzu8zefSjnCE1geTK5tAsBvgHEdXBmhyphenhyphenaRLo/s1600/Main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjKbd8W8CwBHANlW_x9ZzDt92kS-c9fyS05Uz9PfhBI_7n080q-59hD9DRk00kz5fJP5AzfM0_z_gQFmuxTyl91C4Eyz72jhmIH2bVgoNzu8zefSjnCE1geTK5tAsBvgHEdXBmhyphenhyphenaRLo/s400/Main.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog, I know I haven't been keeping up with it much. But I promise to try and post more often than not!<br />
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Until next time, enjoy the rest of your week.<br />
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XOXO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
<a href="http://instagram.com/acozycottageinthecity" target="_blank"><b>Instagram</b></a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/acozycottageinthecity" target="_blank"><b>Facebook</b></a><br />
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Sharing with:<br />
<a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Pink Saturday</a> <br />
<a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2013/10/wow-us-wednesdays-141.html" target="_blank">Wow Us Wednesdays</a><br />
<a href="http://www.freeprettythingsforyou.com/2013/10/pretty-wednesday-linky-party-11/" target="_blank">Pretty Wednesdays</a><br />
<a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2013/10/feathered-nest-friday_24.html" target="_blank">Feathered Nest Friday</a><br />
</center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-41173028170111839852013-03-29T12:53:00.000-07:002013-03-29T12:54:56.463-07:00Happy Easter Weekend!<center><font size="4">Just wishing everyone a Happy Easter & a lovely weekend! Lots happening over here and haven't had much time to blog. <br />
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But you can see what I've been up to via my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/acozycottageinthecity" target="_blank">Facebook Fan Page</a> or <a href="http://instagram.com/acozycottageinthecity" target="_blank">Instagram</a> account! Would love for you to follow along over there!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntiltNf92xD3dDJwp9Sj-yZI3CAHf8PVohFb5pM6Q_QmiU-B5hZEnwl-P9xTmoL7MkFjmtJt8gGhUGMEmwHokJhxshsFR6b99p53qbVhDa7BagHXxn7qfpna3VadgkQJCZHIhMYXILck/s1600/Easter+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntiltNf92xD3dDJwp9Sj-yZI3CAHf8PVohFb5pM6Q_QmiU-B5hZEnwl-P9xTmoL7MkFjmtJt8gGhUGMEmwHokJhxshsFR6b99p53qbVhDa7BagHXxn7qfpna3VadgkQJCZHIhMYXILck/s320/Easter+Tree.jpg" /></a> <br />
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Until next time, enjoy this season of bloom!<br />
<br />
<br />
Warmly,<br />
Jessie</font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-88891666382218772322013-03-06T23:55:00.000-08:002013-03-06T23:30:24.828-08:00Hello March!<center><font size="4"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5J5LOal4NYuE7ZkVeOPHWckgyOq9i8UmpKG_Tgxq7Na2oI6OHFd8xIg2nnhZBx28TCbfixUUMfZtwjLy2u1ht7wdvVvc1IPbWFLrIKK7ob5K4Mk3SAwoQuP9mp1KM605_MpcHRXBww9s/s1600/6498.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5J5LOal4NYuE7ZkVeOPHWckgyOq9i8UmpKG_Tgxq7Na2oI6OHFd8xIg2nnhZBx28TCbfixUUMfZtwjLy2u1ht7wdvVvc1IPbWFLrIKK7ob5K4Mk3SAwoQuP9mp1KM605_MpcHRXBww9s/s320/6498.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Hello everyone! Although I know it is still really cold in many parts of the U.S., signs of spring have been in the air over here in Southern Cali since March came along! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1KQZ7ADRhKp3yKs4kXsoMZM-EUWF5jWi9GmtFcZJ62ODEcQ5Q3X_BTFNT2O0kwmQZxly1OaPiX2s98IIItfwS_mOv_Pv094wuPvdtgytQjghOtQV_-i0fg3FZtCoHpkJ1Pu6QZ1YvtZk/s1600/6496.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1KQZ7ADRhKp3yKs4kXsoMZM-EUWF5jWi9GmtFcZJ62ODEcQ5Q3X_BTFNT2O0kwmQZxly1OaPiX2s98IIItfwS_mOv_Pv094wuPvdtgytQjghOtQV_-i0fg3FZtCoHpkJ1Pu6QZ1YvtZk/s320/6496.jpg" /></a><br />
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I went to the Garden Center the other day, and saw so many pretty flowers in bloom including these fluffy hydrangeas in hues of pinks, blues & purples!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObWVVUxt5wxagCvgjOp4wL3zcri9vJ1J5bx1u_84MTetbHiNramFu4rfDC8adCIPc60lJa8R9_z3u2cpTOXaicZwxEPqi_sR-razPEWdDKMCS5s1c2xTL5WdDfFODPLUsiVaNezobqqI/s1600/6499.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObWVVUxt5wxagCvgjOp4wL3zcri9vJ1J5bx1u_84MTetbHiNramFu4rfDC8adCIPc60lJa8R9_z3u2cpTOXaicZwxEPqi_sR-razPEWdDKMCS5s1c2xTL5WdDfFODPLUsiVaNezobqqI/s320/6499.jpg" /></a><br />
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Some sunny tulips & cheerful calendulas even greeted me throughout my walk in the nursery.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLxFKw-s_bM_hC2L5JuRg4ukU9NJZXQ1wRirVYS2nPp_PaFpcOjkjaAhz1RNlkg1JuHqO5aJ6N1Z3iUdbZ_Ek83zKvkpe2uymZ3-lnMT65WSOqg-nknHfKK178kyQwNnp3GhZqGgoXBw/s1600/6500.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLxFKw-s_bM_hC2L5JuRg4ukU9NJZXQ1wRirVYS2nPp_PaFpcOjkjaAhz1RNlkg1JuHqO5aJ6N1Z3iUdbZ_Ek83zKvkpe2uymZ3-lnMT65WSOqg-nknHfKK178kyQwNnp3GhZqGgoXBw/s320/6500.jpg" /></a><br />
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The pretty pansies in rich shades of violet bid their "hellos" as I perused around looking for what to plant in my garden this spring.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3wMdvtK8D5Vti_cCQlY9QiCpZaLzprCYB8UBS3DArUr5nFcdAzAXfoy6agDQg3LYLGPrliwQTMCshyJVPwRiJI6sO5BQWaqmlB5jEPQatqBVu1WUE0KT2EEsGgWfYqdBPKmttOyQCj0/s1600/6497.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3wMdvtK8D5Vti_cCQlY9QiCpZaLzprCYB8UBS3DArUr5nFcdAzAXfoy6agDQg3LYLGPrliwQTMCshyJVPwRiJI6sO5BQWaqmlB5jEPQatqBVu1WUE0KT2EEsGgWfYqdBPKmttOyQCj0/s320/6497.jpg" /></a><br />
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You see, I am starting a new landscaping project from scratch and have spent the last few days studying the lighting in my front, back, and side yards throughout the day to see which flowers would bloom best in certain locations. <br />
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Surprisingly enough, after admiring much inspiration from various blogger friends - I actually have a plan as to how it is all going to unfold, and I'm quite excited about it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTGPJF32L_n4ZvyDxdaE3RG2FVYsoLn7LX_ruV4D9yJ2b73Cwu001Y-aJguW5wLkYpxRUx3rIKFMx36fYibogClFKjkop4-LppttOxMEgxOIXUEZNHbyNrb9HCP9WjaSUpe2tcBEA3oQ/s1600/6566b.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTGPJF32L_n4ZvyDxdaE3RG2FVYsoLn7LX_ruV4D9yJ2b73Cwu001Y-aJguW5wLkYpxRUx3rIKFMx36fYibogClFKjkop4-LppttOxMEgxOIXUEZNHbyNrb9HCP9WjaSUpe2tcBEA3oQ/s320/6566b.jpg" /></a><br />
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Of course this long awaited gardening project is now happening after about a year and a half of moving into our fixer upper home!<br />
<br />
But that's ok, because the house did come with some eye candy around the property - even if only a few citrus trees. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvO_pTsttPV6K5yJ27EqihtJIjJ7JxyupHr7mfkhEXtDCHFKYwteOPPEMEnNKtMqeeQgI-m6Lh-xqfcQbaFYdVOOMxQVND-XudweeMjTc1egfT8-mZD2gRND6oWI5Z9rnMb46Mp7VGCQ/s1600/6208.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvO_pTsttPV6K5yJ27EqihtJIjJ7JxyupHr7mfkhEXtDCHFKYwteOPPEMEnNKtMqeeQgI-m6Lh-xqfcQbaFYdVOOMxQVND-XudweeMjTc1egfT8-mZD2gRND6oWI5Z9rnMb46Mp7VGCQ/s320/6208.jpg" /></a><br />
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For example, there will never be a shortage of organic lemons that seem to bear fruit nearly all year long.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhUPxnp48OTAqpCD48kVC7bcXGi8r16GO00khARGqRCLcWWFqqQ5pVSj5fxtck7yBOb3B-VFrgZ9P2ItBfSFxyCxiT4evDkVF054z9O6CmWRvT5ugVeNJ_e-k83Ty3ZqBAADKsVVP4n4/s1600/6216.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhUPxnp48OTAqpCD48kVC7bcXGi8r16GO00khARGqRCLcWWFqqQ5pVSj5fxtck7yBOb3B-VFrgZ9P2ItBfSFxyCxiT4evDkVF054z9O6CmWRvT5ugVeNJ_e-k83Ty3ZqBAADKsVVP4n4/s320/6216.jpg" /></a><br />
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Even the orange & grapefruit trees are starting to ripen, which is a perfect addition to any weekend breakfast or brunch!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPTRpJ89NHgaKE7r2GyRqrgpe_WXHk6ntXXeljb36hAwZXIOjOVwj9CE9Hi1MHAmbf1Bj8TKr1x0afV1NaKLrUkV7m-jkprVSQBKwJ41wMWkFRbHDz72Ebh-5gyAiIq3yaKXif9-G-me0/s1600/6215.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPTRpJ89NHgaKE7r2GyRqrgpe_WXHk6ntXXeljb36hAwZXIOjOVwj9CE9Hi1MHAmbf1Bj8TKr1x0afV1NaKLrUkV7m-jkprVSQBKwJ41wMWkFRbHDz72Ebh-5gyAiIq3yaKXif9-G-me0/s320/6215.jpg" /></a><br />
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And while I was walking through my side yard, I was excited to see that the calla lilies were in bloom! Which is kind of funny, because I really don't even pay much attention to that area and it looks like some roses and some "berry bushes" are starting to sprout up. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62mmd_a_G-lwEzh_aZ1ojqy6ZAAR9spczo48J3fXN6XdN05a09SfL1zia8Vo8_zkmwe0Q6G-XCpJLSHS3KebVVwDrSG4mWFUVaOcbymuN57Tl8IXKj5Rb9JYXmSsYG6-4du8_AuTEMh8/s1600/6557.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62mmd_a_G-lwEzh_aZ1ojqy6ZAAR9spczo48J3fXN6XdN05a09SfL1zia8Vo8_zkmwe0Q6G-XCpJLSHS3KebVVwDrSG4mWFUVaOcbymuN57Tl8IXKj5Rb9JYXmSsYG6-4du8_AuTEMh8/s320/6557.jpg" /></a><br />
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There is still a lot of cleaning, pruning and trimming to do in that part of our yard, so hopefully I'll be able to take photos when it's a bit more tidy! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72615bO4kOFOy9CLOX4sZjr_l1xlKev4hU7hkmaj_eN50XvqP6v5OS0Do8UvwetQD-2NrkhCWxc7fdolVVpH4olq2gDz_t2dE3QcgOwxrEy7lQbp4zwE7mwdmj4ZXjo5vAY9m1BP_aXg/s1600/6473.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72615bO4kOFOy9CLOX4sZjr_l1xlKev4hU7hkmaj_eN50XvqP6v5OS0Do8UvwetQD-2NrkhCWxc7fdolVVpH4olq2gDz_t2dE3QcgOwxrEy7lQbp4zwE7mwdmj4ZXjo5vAY9m1BP_aXg/s320/6473.jpg" /></a><br />
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On another note, I visited my family in Central California over the weekend and was pleased to see that spring was in the air over there too! These maple cherry tree blossoms greeted us with it's lovely shade and sweet scent!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmhAFvhqmmvE214iohUBXydMum_vAXMjkrUG3kMohaMLi_PGFkkCWTQM4M0Snd1ABGJ_BoYqIQIhoUrPUevT_GJJQ7bvE8fOmQWdtEOshAOJdWnTE6THq85eKZjipYr5E-pwMRh1w37M/s1600/6492.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmhAFvhqmmvE214iohUBXydMum_vAXMjkrUG3kMohaMLi_PGFkkCWTQM4M0Snd1ABGJ_BoYqIQIhoUrPUevT_GJJQ7bvE8fOmQWdtEOshAOJdWnTE6THq85eKZjipYr5E-pwMRh1w37M/s320/6492.jpg" /></a><br />
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And although it started off sunny on Saturday, there were some gray clouds and slight rain come Sunday. But I thought the pink blooms looked quite lovely against the muted background. :)<br />
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But here in Southern California, the weather has been quite warm for the most part. Though it can be moody at times with chilly mornings and warmer than usual afternoons! <br />
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But I'm a bit excited about fluffing up my porch this time of year! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtowTYok5kSIKvMvBr3RUaVQ3c0biM3rLs4iPx0fhKBpaR50dvgJmYcwHCYB5Q_8hb8br4-wY5PAsxhavIbspoTcodVxwi261V1b86W9abfoP6Ws0Y7FZl8o0ospAVAFCgaEVKWxQrgo/s1600/6219b.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtowTYok5kSIKvMvBr3RUaVQ3c0biM3rLs4iPx0fhKBpaR50dvgJmYcwHCYB5Q_8hb8br4-wY5PAsxhavIbspoTcodVxwi261V1b86W9abfoP6Ws0Y7FZl8o0ospAVAFCgaEVKWxQrgo/s320/6219b.jpg" /></a><br />
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And with that I leave you with a last image of my double primrose flower that I purchased at Trader Joe's. It comes with a vintage Italian pot that was found on a California Ranch dating back to 1908! I forgot to take a picture of the french shaped pot and slight patina that is has ~ perhaps next time then! :)<br />
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Well I hope you are all looking forward to a season in bloom! Thank you all once again for still hanging around, as I know I haven't been blogging regularly for over a year now {sigh}! <br />
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But until next time, enjoy the rest of your week!<br />
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<br />
Warmly,<br />
Jessie<br />
<br />
</font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-39609905332353053172013-02-15T09:15:00.000-08:002013-03-06T01:10:36.762-08:00February Hearts, Sweets & Blooms.<center><font size="4">Hello everyone! I know I'm a little late, but I would like to wish everyone a Happy Belated Valentine's Day! I truly hope you all had a wonderful day with your loved ones.<br />
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I worked on a few fun crafts for the month of February, so thought I'd share what I have been up to.<br />
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So what do you do with 2 bags of conversation hearts, a green floral foam painted with white acrylic, a glue gun, and some blooms? <br />
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Well, you make a "conversation heart" cake!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodoss0PKtOyp6GA5HQwVuM6ZoqooSxdKSDPeubCQJTv4rA5ylGWwDaSxmB2YVN_0QUSZpGL-IYcTmphPfudAiXWCf8ju62L42FvvDswm_GdVzGbx7AGlHOAGDhfoTkX6A3szJI0tfb7g/s1600/5663b.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodoss0PKtOyp6GA5HQwVuM6ZoqooSxdKSDPeubCQJTv4rA5ylGWwDaSxmB2YVN_0QUSZpGL-IYcTmphPfudAiXWCf8ju62L42FvvDswm_GdVzGbx7AGlHOAGDhfoTkX6A3szJI0tfb7g/s320/5663b.jpg" /></a><br />
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Last Christmas, I bought a green floral foam at the dollar tree and painted it white with some acrylic craft paint that I had lying around {but I don't really recommend going that route as it took forever to dry since the foam is so porous...but I'm so cheap, I didn't want to spend more than a dollar to purchase a real styrofoam ring!}.<br />
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I had the intention of making a <a href="http://dreamywhites.blogspot.com/2011/12/finished-peppermint-wreath.html" target="_blank">peppermint wreath</a> per Maria's inspiration at <a href="http://dreamywhites.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Dreamy Whites</a>, but I could NOT find my glue gun for the life of me, so that project kind of went on a standstill. <br />
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But lo and behold, I finally found my glue gun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSo8jQWaJiq-n6oNddEgpwpOTaM3sqnYM8RHh3_LIdANGMRM_8X4RA00wOfJesvY1vEW3S7mH_qd0NZri_86G0E9ClD5r3d9HNJLw2XRMa6f0A90Unqa0TQcT0L4pD9alFadUD1jQsMos/s1600/5855.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSo8jQWaJiq-n6oNddEgpwpOTaM3sqnYM8RHh3_LIdANGMRM_8X4RA00wOfJesvY1vEW3S7mH_qd0NZri_86G0E9ClD5r3d9HNJLw2XRMa6f0A90Unqa0TQcT0L4pD9alFadUD1jQsMos/s320/5855.jpg" /></a><br />
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So I decided to make a "cake" instead of a wreath for Valentine's! I glued the top, bottom and insides of the wreath with hearts, which took a few hours but it was super easy and fun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9l04IU4Q7m21WGyolGU5KR9ScOBdQNx8nP30DD0Q_sFfsgA4GBOaJ8M6MsxyCr5UujxMboZ6mfwHmlpHE4DN2XMFGn93F37CgrKS1B0fe7b_ix3nqmhTRftTKFzVL62_mBTsmTGsP2Q/s1600/5856.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9l04IU4Q7m21WGyolGU5KR9ScOBdQNx8nP30DD0Q_sFfsgA4GBOaJ8M6MsxyCr5UujxMboZ6mfwHmlpHE4DN2XMFGn93F37CgrKS1B0fe7b_ix3nqmhTRftTKFzVL62_mBTsmTGsP2Q/s320/5856.jpg" /></a><br />
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Placed the "cake" on a white cake platter...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwSGpluhbIhT5xzHCFPFsu8bhw3luaYPJbCQa5PBjnW1Sbt4rytDS3rMhfR3Ltd5TFWVp3A8948Ig08KrsZfj_dr-4JeAhgnemn3p-rwEl6a8Af9Umk_HQdcDH5l7eVnXvYkUgZy7gLuQ/s1600/5662.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwSGpluhbIhT5xzHCFPFsu8bhw3luaYPJbCQa5PBjnW1Sbt4rytDS3rMhfR3Ltd5TFWVp3A8948Ig08KrsZfj_dr-4JeAhgnemn3p-rwEl6a8Af9Umk_HQdcDH5l7eVnXvYkUgZy7gLuQ/s320/5662.jpg" /></a><br />
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Then added some blooms, and voila ~ we now have a decorated "Conversation Heart" cake that is both festive and fun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZabMCB1NU6H9Ut6__sZCxA1Hg2Ur_T4cjGMHZhbGxk6JlE3NwnftwpVEPi6Uo0Dx6AdTWu0Z3WjhM9bsR0Ee729tcEk3RphQS_qL69xXfh5juzEOm-lNAU_Nf4Nb6LTqhnfFWdF-APMs/s1600/5671.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZabMCB1NU6H9Ut6__sZCxA1Hg2Ur_T4cjGMHZhbGxk6JlE3NwnftwpVEPi6Uo0Dx6AdTWu0Z3WjhM9bsR0Ee729tcEk3RphQS_qL69xXfh5juzEOm-lNAU_Nf4Nb6LTqhnfFWdF-APMs/s320/5671.jpg" /></a><br />
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My little one and I also had some fun making cute little designs with some ice cream flavored conversation hearts, such as this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpoJmpAU0wiRvpsPNURKpZsplrQscwtiQkvVAsmdLaZ6djVLRN4zqD3nDBVznrj8Dq14If2eKCv_nWVMf6_U3gSkOXAZ1WqbZ2YfFhb6fwAcf5kdyV5_6Vhpy5sW5g5eTrj385Ps9usk/s1600/5583.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpoJmpAU0wiRvpsPNURKpZsplrQscwtiQkvVAsmdLaZ6djVLRN4zqD3nDBVznrj8Dq14If2eKCv_nWVMf6_U3gSkOXAZ1WqbZ2YfFhb6fwAcf5kdyV5_6Vhpy5sW5g5eTrj385Ps9usk/s320/5583.jpg" /></a><br />
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"Chocolate" for the cone, scoops of "strawberry & vanilla," with a "cherry" on top! lol<br />
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I then put the rest of the unused hearts in this glass container on my mantel for some fun pops of color! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOu2fEOiMn2fLLHj0WqQ9wzDW0E73wQ10RDljjcuxQygsEpycv_q_HD9CJinnnYJtFDw8Whfc8Qe0DjGb0uRmQk34k52tRY3360cA4lp2AMFD26tcfwMYGYdSoghVzv3Q69zE1_IlsetA/s1600/5717.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOu2fEOiMn2fLLHj0WqQ9wzDW0E73wQ10RDljjcuxQygsEpycv_q_HD9CJinnnYJtFDw8Whfc8Qe0DjGb0uRmQk34k52tRY3360cA4lp2AMFD26tcfwMYGYdSoghVzv3Q69zE1_IlsetA/s320/5717.jpg" /></a><br />
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Next up is baking! Yes, I do have a sweet tooth ~ so I decided to make some yummy vegan treats for myself and my boys who love sweets just as much as I do!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakG6yVAPd1GNciGg6LIYnjjKKsoZKHeeZjqnVddMqkQcxft-jlwn_flOt-VaQhADlDsJlkUwA9Kmx_wSvtX8XxWM4WJgQfCcRqZzn4w-0vN5_ffTVPG-hVRHbT34xz3GEbbSOh9xhoh0/s1600/5659.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakG6yVAPd1GNciGg6LIYnjjKKsoZKHeeZjqnVddMqkQcxft-jlwn_flOt-VaQhADlDsJlkUwA9Kmx_wSvtX8XxWM4WJgQfCcRqZzn4w-0vN5_ffTVPG-hVRHbT34xz3GEbbSOh9xhoh0/s320/5659.jpg" /></a><br />
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It's hard to believe that these recipes do not have any butter or eggs in them, yet are as decadent as can be! With some unsweetened cocoa powder, dairy free semi-sweet chocolate chips, and a bag of frozen raspberries {plus other easy ingredients}...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJaYgCtH4TTCKGiVNo1FG2NimFhZ_T8RFOUCPJrSxL3mzyEqdY5GyfyMJ1jyjoAU5jQHZMa8k2obB_GbvWm-0so9chLGgjeUN34eyi5TKRZZ2SYMqulUak3ufFwH569XEynBfMte_DdCs/s1600/5862.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJaYgCtH4TTCKGiVNo1FG2NimFhZ_T8RFOUCPJrSxL3mzyEqdY5GyfyMJ1jyjoAU5jQHZMa8k2obB_GbvWm-0so9chLGgjeUN34eyi5TKRZZ2SYMqulUak3ufFwH569XEynBfMte_DdCs/s320/5862.jpg" /></a><br />
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One can easily make a luscious chocolate cake filled with "molten" chocolate, and topped with powdered sugar and delicious raspberry sauce! My boys who are meat and dairy lovers had no clue this was vegan until I told them after they had devoured it all in one sitting!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMAWoxx7LL2fEJhKFtAwOneizns9ky_kljMT1EVO_hBiRN9qTf322F5YiSYwfIQATMG3LfqHv-XqPlg8X_OmwEGRPRhCUAcb7cJZ9ZhEQWDSgHK0TXloFXau2ZzjF3QgyjjKSGNcmLMs/s1600/5871.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMAWoxx7LL2fEJhKFtAwOneizns9ky_kljMT1EVO_hBiRN9qTf322F5YiSYwfIQATMG3LfqHv-XqPlg8X_OmwEGRPRhCUAcb7cJZ9ZhEQWDSgHK0TXloFXau2ZzjF3QgyjjKSGNcmLMs/s320/5871.jpg" /></a><br />
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I also made some "cuppy cakes!" Yes, I always have to bake pink cupcakes every year for Valentine's, and this year was no exception!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHro6dtoSHRSSkhSn8JhZ5N4cytOxuJUuoAZQZmQDWZh9JxmY_4YjU5b7Ww0aYYUwx57_YZCB0SVhkYOuqHGvi7ogTiVJiFrR7WyMbJyAYFwAifj7IShIFBHp9Qc4211ZzogyTTICui5o/s1600/5453.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHro6dtoSHRSSkhSn8JhZ5N4cytOxuJUuoAZQZmQDWZh9JxmY_4YjU5b7Ww0aYYUwx57_YZCB0SVhkYOuqHGvi7ogTiVJiFrR7WyMbJyAYFwAifj7IShIFBHp9Qc4211ZzogyTTICui5o/s320/5453.jpg" /></a><br />
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With the help of some cute paper baking cups {purchased for $1.99 a pack at Home Goods}, the cupcakes have an all the more cuter presentation! Plus there is no need for a cupcake pan! :)<br />
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This dessert is also vegan {frosting and all!}: Rosewater Pistachio Cupcakes with pale pink buttercream frosting, and topped with chopped pistachios and pink crystal sprinkles!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL7J8-AdZe59FIsz2vTwmxAX2ZJ35xKqhZwB5QHjLpSmyvCPFikqQvlY2YYAQCBxLcjCLwfcHX3n6yzruQQxOakeLnTqJd_UR9o5AXFiIQgjOj4GfDPMsNNkYxRXLmomMzh8bcYNDmrE/s1600/5700.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL7J8-AdZe59FIsz2vTwmxAX2ZJ35xKqhZwB5QHjLpSmyvCPFikqQvlY2YYAQCBxLcjCLwfcHX3n6yzruQQxOakeLnTqJd_UR9o5AXFiIQgjOj4GfDPMsNNkYxRXLmomMzh8bcYNDmrE/s320/5700.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdojNHYBsKMqEk6dYvTPQVAvNXykuFhDOqq0u4G9WqVdfYbvoVUqT5pocExyygcvIZLdDSww0NkvtGKULcjwce734bj8SSgo_UIwnmnvUTVl4qw-zM6wMArd_vg93GHaB0ulh8JiYtss4/s1600/5690best.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdojNHYBsKMqEk6dYvTPQVAvNXykuFhDOqq0u4G9WqVdfYbvoVUqT5pocExyygcvIZLdDSww0NkvtGKULcjwce734bj8SSgo_UIwnmnvUTVl4qw-zM6wMArd_vg93GHaB0ulh8JiYtss4/s320/5690best.jpg" /></a><br />
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And the sweets don't really end there! lol For Valentine's Day, my sweet hubby and I enjoyed lunch together at a local cafe where afterwards I took home some lovely heart-shaped macarons.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvPejrq8H33VKYd2yUvyFqHhZ5gyWTYJx0hZCLSjiQLjthHWOBWVExS3Rc3AoKmlZ7GAomzq7Y8A8NnU3i_wgZozs1LoXHxFt2r5N9K5r-K6hMQ1nv7D3hByJfGm88bbH7W37LSIoHHc/s1600/MacaronsVday.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvPejrq8H33VKYd2yUvyFqHhZ5gyWTYJx0hZCLSjiQLjthHWOBWVExS3Rc3AoKmlZ7GAomzq7Y8A8NnU3i_wgZozs1LoXHxFt2r5N9K5r-K6hMQ1nv7D3hByJfGm88bbH7W37LSIoHHc/s320/MacaronsVday.jpg" /></a><br />
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These flavors are Strawberry & Espresso Creme! <br />
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My hubby was so sweet enough to also surprise me with the new <a href="http://www.frenchlarkspur.com/item_406/Fairytale-Easter-from-Jeanne-d-Arc-Living.htm" target="_blank">JDL Easter Book</a> that he purchased from Tracey at <a href="http://frenchlarkspur.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">French Larkspur,</a> for an early Vday gift! I thought it was so thoughtful of him to notice the things I have my eye on {thanks honey!!!}. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PfOAfQIjR5waNIm7M6ZZr272K3O0mDN5JqzOpIa21Kj7GyiU-A19dAXjzhR2zWGQJnKj0bCQ9wJf9vA8xG01NfBtx_iEJywNqVZ8ZJQUueoZV6v63gF3mKn_TuyM2fXlKRqzfutgWt4/s1600/5804.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PfOAfQIjR5waNIm7M6ZZr272K3O0mDN5JqzOpIa21Kj7GyiU-A19dAXjzhR2zWGQJnKj0bCQ9wJf9vA8xG01NfBtx_iEJywNqVZ8ZJQUueoZV6v63gF3mKn_TuyM2fXlKRqzfutgWt4/s320/5804.jpg" /></a><br />
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He also surprised me with a box of truffles and these lovely ivory & pale pink blooms when I woke up on Valentine's Day morning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZEzm1_Gnw-rSHUxD8pTWYyy7ZExGlHRIL68hwi9Dq6zs_hFfX8NgwjYHs_e6053hZDpsw4cg8TLwjYr75wMqD2h_o4-xyE4acChPZYpnkU4NWhrWaymMxsdtKJniwvD3GrjS3KeMcfs/s1600/BouquetRoses.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZEzm1_Gnw-rSHUxD8pTWYyy7ZExGlHRIL68hwi9Dq6zs_hFfX8NgwjYHs_e6053hZDpsw4cg8TLwjYr75wMqD2h_o4-xyE4acChPZYpnkU4NWhrWaymMxsdtKJniwvD3GrjS3KeMcfs/s320/BouquetRoses.jpg" /></a><br />
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I just can't tell you enough at how blooms such as these make me extremely giddy & happy! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjpj65VgVJn3IHoVCi0Os1Eon4LXl9sdH5xwjGj4kJSIF07zh6jpwccHL0vSHp-jDnTO4_2MTAdQMrEjsrkZk0TZbkpQ0oPIUSRo4fD1RW4-75u3idZyVtuk9kiEdC0JecfUlCTX0E-s/s1600/RoseVase.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjpj65VgVJn3IHoVCi0Os1Eon4LXl9sdH5xwjGj4kJSIF07zh6jpwccHL0vSHp-jDnTO4_2MTAdQMrEjsrkZk0TZbkpQ0oPIUSRo4fD1RW4-75u3idZyVtuk9kiEdC0JecfUlCTX0E-s/s320/RoseVase.jpg" /></a><br />
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Well that just about concludes my little update on the month of February in a nutshell! I hope this post doesn't seem too rushed. I'll try to post closer together with more details next time! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGedDEGXGFUFMC242I0YpWgmiSJgG5HC3tXlFajbgA_wRYmjapGsBt7Lgf7WYWzITZtBspJRC8-m0i8Y3rnTsgcLebPFDMErgDlW20q7ixRdTh7o8TipN3WAfX2mbHB0UrpPyIurPrrdQ/s1600/5853.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGedDEGXGFUFMC242I0YpWgmiSJgG5HC3tXlFajbgA_wRYmjapGsBt7Lgf7WYWzITZtBspJRC8-m0i8Y3rnTsgcLebPFDMErgDlW20q7ixRdTh7o8TipN3WAfX2mbHB0UrpPyIurPrrdQ/s320/5853.jpg" /></a><br />
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In the meanwhile, THANK YOU all for still "hanging around" and for continuing to visit my page, and leaving me such kind and thoughtful comments. I truly appreciate and treasure each and every one!!! Until next time, enjoy your upcoming weekend!<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
<br />
</font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-31067009855025651352013-01-25T10:00:00.000-08:002013-01-25T13:30:56.007-08:00A Creative Morning<center><font size="4">Hello everyone! The other morning I felt the need to get creative again. If you have been following my Instagram, you will know that I have been going through a lot in regards to my father being ill. <br />
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Without having to get into too much detail, I've just been feeling really depressed at times, then happy the next. It's just a yo-yo kind of a feeling with tons of ups and downs.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCas-Nd6ooMSVZZ-vGf03hoAvsWa3GYnFdNMqIlz9QnsdfDuQwnqIHmA8u-w3k8pyMXW18gKP1Qa5-VhwkBWz5K_44lM9URAEwgP_A8hQGpwiGjULVzouaihhSxakbAGnwnSmpici7VaE/s1600/4834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCas-Nd6ooMSVZZ-vGf03hoAvsWa3GYnFdNMqIlz9QnsdfDuQwnqIHmA8u-w3k8pyMXW18gKP1Qa5-VhwkBWz5K_44lM9URAEwgP_A8hQGpwiGjULVzouaihhSxakbAGnwnSmpici7VaE/s400/4834.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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With that said, I went to Michael's the other day because I wanted try to find some crafty inspiration to get me out of this "funk" that I've been in. <br />
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Then I came across some really lovely wreaths that I thought would look perfect for a little Valentine's Day decor. <br />
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But I was shocked at some of the $60.00-$90.00 price tags! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_Z31uPCVY7YBCKOglz0SekiKl49OW3P8xaXzKcwaC8dXFYkzczgGiM0tQ-guPeUoFzlLPQqvgVZgAkOFR3qYch6wewnlLeEMKctpzk0W80p51amxim-K3jPPCuo38dPgr6AEozniL84/s1600/4837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_Z31uPCVY7YBCKOglz0SekiKl49OW3P8xaXzKcwaC8dXFYkzczgGiM0tQ-guPeUoFzlLPQqvgVZgAkOFR3qYch6wewnlLeEMKctpzk0W80p51amxim-K3jPPCuo38dPgr6AEozniL84/s400/4837.jpg" /></a></div><br />
That's when I decided to go to our local <b>Dollar Tree</b> because I already had wonderful idea in mind!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaUqyZHAIRd_KltUH0S38sw6tn1PHXDPLAf8h14Zl5ZWCXL_WYsTehT8WHHiMzaTbuu1nICvAZjZw5GDxeVHBdiYjMRTJgFDuBU_mAkFCZzVa2xb3iHKbYjiZsKlToaZ4qVqlPI2F00A/s1600/4841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaUqyZHAIRd_KltUH0S38sw6tn1PHXDPLAf8h14Zl5ZWCXL_WYsTehT8WHHiMzaTbuu1nICvAZjZw5GDxeVHBdiYjMRTJgFDuBU_mAkFCZzVa2xb3iHKbYjiZsKlToaZ4qVqlPI2F00A/s400/4841.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I bought a willow wreath.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaV7XcjUikVY1q93hkdkHTvtS9LW8UkfqGtZl_aVgMP_l8qw2-gzzSQcTb99fELyybZhRdl6Z6v-MRB_kEbOyIQPMhMhhOLr1wZpbiFqwinFnVJrlKB76YxKuAYSZjvz6L762h_to8mZ4/s1600/4840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaV7XcjUikVY1q93hkdkHTvtS9LW8UkfqGtZl_aVgMP_l8qw2-gzzSQcTb99fELyybZhRdl6Z6v-MRB_kEbOyIQPMhMhhOLr1wZpbiFqwinFnVJrlKB76YxKuAYSZjvz6L762h_to8mZ4/s400/4840.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Purchased a few clusters of florals.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NL7DDsgzfrPbdJnffFlf8DPygMes7nC5iwU7HrTrL4jEUKe6-wrwfz0QCI8Yx2NQipsdq3QLlu1oJAjkiVOoC_Sshw3jdSdjkQHhyphenhyphenjw_lOlExiEZbTKG1aSIEQ9TC1fXfbxPhLVaNj8/s1600/4848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NL7DDsgzfrPbdJnffFlf8DPygMes7nC5iwU7HrTrL4jEUKe6-wrwfz0QCI8Yx2NQipsdq3QLlu1oJAjkiVOoC_Sshw3jdSdjkQHhyphenhyphenjw_lOlExiEZbTKG1aSIEQ9TC1fXfbxPhLVaNj8/s400/4848.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Then went to work trimming and cutting, using craft and/or wire scissors {which they also have at the Dollar Tree if you don't already have them on hand}.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwtjyIWK_TLJ2kVkFSjHky3KHj1wGF1c5NYKlp5qCwkcZFKHW3DZ9Slx8rL6xvOvccpckST6v0Xl5eohB0Ev0xU9ZfA1YdIhDNqs3nuwjZFICLU02BDU807pU-4lDB6VPx9HFZWCpZXk/s1600/4854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="319" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwtjyIWK_TLJ2kVkFSjHky3KHj1wGF1c5NYKlp5qCwkcZFKHW3DZ9Slx8rL6xvOvccpckST6v0Xl5eohB0Ev0xU9ZfA1YdIhDNqs3nuwjZFICLU02BDU807pU-4lDB6VPx9HFZWCpZXk/s400/4854.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I then removed the leaves {they just slide right off}. Then weaved the florals through the wreaths.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQsYNdUZ7rPxFYwftPZF-g1VdRsK1NsH7otG7S9QCoWjGWGjqbx_eSr0wyhbnqukZuoFiRkmP6_FhWsWB-A2WkJW1C7omXheaVrjD0IieRwUKrIoRKtmXQAu904a9wxlJQmohLFQgkNY/s1600/4849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="324" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQsYNdUZ7rPxFYwftPZF-g1VdRsK1NsH7otG7S9QCoWjGWGjqbx_eSr0wyhbnqukZuoFiRkmP6_FhWsWB-A2WkJW1C7omXheaVrjD0IieRwUKrIoRKtmXQAu904a9wxlJQmohLFQgkNY/s400/4849.jpg" /></a></div><br />
In no particular order, I just haphazardly put the flower heads together. I pushed the stems through the branches of the willow wreath and trimmed and tucked in the excess.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMzxvSAiftDROycd3wk2y1KEx7y4L72Gef-BaIn93FRdKzka2BOpqaO3IWTh_2Bydd6uR5V1yfdm5PE08WrVyAaPPUmBXUf0lXVgIFH3zI8TllmY2-RQN5mKi9nq_Kmx3-zu6n4HQDWw/s1600/4857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMzxvSAiftDROycd3wk2y1KEx7y4L72Gef-BaIn93FRdKzka2BOpqaO3IWTh_2Bydd6uR5V1yfdm5PE08WrVyAaPPUmBXUf0lXVgIFH3zI8TllmY2-RQN5mKi9nq_Kmx3-zu6n4HQDWw/s400/4857.jpg" /></a></div><br />
And it doesn't have to be perfect or neat, as you can see from the above image. Sorry for the blurry images, by the way {as I am now using my iPhone 4S to take photos since my camera went "kaput" on me! }. :( <br />
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Conversely, I'm sure you can use a glue gun and just trim the stems and glue the flower heads next to each other ~ but I have unfortunately not been able to find my glue gun since we moved into our house.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT6oBET2nrSLyqEuU7aEhHS4XojOlE_vxVynwR_UZ4FZVFYwLWy6XD4RGoIBsWmRmMBOS6fSTBtP-tGMJCRgEbqCAry6P2PYHMXTEi8DFRc7CALlxD-jI0DPfbDflVKmXsXA7dJOa_PFE/s1600/4851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT6oBET2nrSLyqEuU7aEhHS4XojOlE_vxVynwR_UZ4FZVFYwLWy6XD4RGoIBsWmRmMBOS6fSTBtP-tGMJCRgEbqCAry6P2PYHMXTEi8DFRc7CALlxD-jI0DPfbDflVKmXsXA7dJOa_PFE/s400/4851.jpg" /></a></div><br />
You also don't have to make a "tight" cluster of florals. I loosely put them through and filled the gaps in later, as they are very easy to move around. Though if you use a glue gun, you won't be able to move them around so freely.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4nQIFM3WjKA-5FBzJf15_H4GGki-qrBONqdKjlLGN9HLhO8-RxLFTJmJCkYuxHNzx_pUpzANg3IFWwk_IGKLhkuzLLsDl0hIuj4oHcAw2YG8DZYU57T-5oPqIfyLTylT9QuHXX6yfZM/s1600/4853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="340" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4nQIFM3WjKA-5FBzJf15_H4GGki-qrBONqdKjlLGN9HLhO8-RxLFTJmJCkYuxHNzx_pUpzANg3IFWwk_IGKLhkuzLLsDl0hIuj4oHcAw2YG8DZYU57T-5oPqIfyLTylT9QuHXX6yfZM/s400/4853.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Halfway there...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxuwjWk6kwVPlKe71qHI2_v0P-rTVCTrvKK9W-7xIy7SIJB2L8Sm-rCpyzNApAJV3oEBdRGa7xCkNBVMFqnVN9VYUjTl0XMSY0IbaucxBz7T0T1PGShWI3_itrDVasJgmfKDxuvmoE5o/s1600/4856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxuwjWk6kwVPlKe71qHI2_v0P-rTVCTrvKK9W-7xIy7SIJB2L8Sm-rCpyzNApAJV3oEBdRGa7xCkNBVMFqnVN9VYUjTl0XMSY0IbaucxBz7T0T1PGShWI3_itrDVasJgmfKDxuvmoE5o/s400/4856.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Almost there.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0ZiEZHsY_aQqK9oXogHDr5_p8_2XeBCn9Ea32YdwX8k4hjM8V6SVr6yRLotc-Lg6CbuGDRM-IDMpbE6NhL4zaM-Uv0N2WiI3uyXhMXBI10lL1XAegdrD_eHq4Io0tntw69CPAyBOSJQ/s1600/4890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0ZiEZHsY_aQqK9oXogHDr5_p8_2XeBCn9Ea32YdwX8k4hjM8V6SVr6yRLotc-Lg6CbuGDRM-IDMpbE6NhL4zaM-Uv0N2WiI3uyXhMXBI10lL1XAegdrD_eHq4Io0tntw69CPAyBOSJQ/s400/4890.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Then I took some leftover Christmas ribbon...<br />
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And hung it "longways" on a distressed empty frame {that I made some time ago out of extra molding that was laying around}.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXjEdtiQIl2J7lnM9k2mikVj77rRcU8FY4ow34d2t3fzESlbY4RxalmI2wO3LcopBgsvIV4zObkc3Q5zDAP3mLFCPwpYX6PJcGmdaqw014ZQsdFJc-r6R4UD8m0rKHKESxE02yEzvsqU/s1600/4881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXjEdtiQIl2J7lnM9k2mikVj77rRcU8FY4ow34d2t3fzESlbY4RxalmI2wO3LcopBgsvIV4zObkc3Q5zDAP3mLFCPwpYX6PJcGmdaqw014ZQsdFJc-r6R4UD8m0rKHKESxE02yEzvsqU/s400/4881.jpg" /></a></div><br />
And voila, we have a Valentine's Day inspired floral wreath!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwL-fGoyhHjM3SDpmqvi4m3FuolWk7kvMlo5sctCvuQ6ZHH29urP1UtYClY_XjJDNPDY-RWcmWHdb2JLpksT-SdLVAyZvcJEzdTcPiHt-VlB3_Vo6ke9rifZxC5PeVSuU6F7Y8Gsc-fdo/s1600/4879.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="313" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwL-fGoyhHjM3SDpmqvi4m3FuolWk7kvMlo5sctCvuQ6ZHH29urP1UtYClY_XjJDNPDY-RWcmWHdb2JLpksT-SdLVAyZvcJEzdTcPiHt-VlB3_Vo6ke9rifZxC5PeVSuU6F7Y8Gsc-fdo/s400/4879.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I then put my creation as the centerpiece on my mantle. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH4CbmMpxnPblFW-__Qz2umSG7S4oj2qzY5K3zLUNk9e40VaIVKYau4SsFDNACy8Kptq3zM0eBebRM2LSkq8auGpbAqWzm3MD9Q8q-5YguFAJEshrY7rLoVKyz92fWyf7WSXiHl5ak37A/s1600/4888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH4CbmMpxnPblFW-__Qz2umSG7S4oj2qzY5K3zLUNk9e40VaIVKYau4SsFDNACy8Kptq3zM0eBebRM2LSkq8auGpbAqWzm3MD9Q8q-5YguFAJEshrY7rLoVKyz92fWyf7WSXiHl5ak37A/s400/4888.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So I hoped you've enjoyed my little craft project.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikEiDGvwoFAS9hK73zrOnfHvA_5w-UYNFMCGOy_vw-OMVHZ5SJtgdTuAfiKmbOYyLNDGYZ4Jia9nztD-tapbNOvhZ7abRvhEtNsOVHY3GiP0sWqt9rAi-IYQRl1pfSGQt6f7hwUCoKyY/s1600/4884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikEiDGvwoFAS9hK73zrOnfHvA_5w-UYNFMCGOy_vw-OMVHZ5SJtgdTuAfiKmbOYyLNDGYZ4Jia9nztD-tapbNOvhZ7abRvhEtNsOVHY3GiP0sWqt9rAi-IYQRl1pfSGQt6f7hwUCoKyY/s400/4884.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This was simple and thrifty. One dollar for the willow wreath. Also a dollar for each floral cluster, and I purchased four of them. So this cost me a total of $5.00! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjro5kT6dMXn5wRKVFGwgFboiczY_XWkKskN9Agkf2iljZa92Ny7Tyx_9XxlQ42PnSaJFzyXFZRFsHvjt9_NDkVtU4wJkWcFFKvG5v2xq0AFClMPz2CLTGpLqCx2QKQjJSzfPibDCeEMX4/s1600/4910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjro5kT6dMXn5wRKVFGwgFboiczY_XWkKskN9Agkf2iljZa92Ny7Tyx_9XxlQ42PnSaJFzyXFZRFsHvjt9_NDkVtU4wJkWcFFKvG5v2xq0AFClMPz2CLTGpLqCx2QKQjJSzfPibDCeEMX4/s400/4910.jpg" /></a></div><br />
If you want, you can even glue in the leaves {that were initially removed} for more greenery.<br />
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There are a plethora of colors to choose from and you could even weave in some ivy for variety. All items are available at the <b>Dollar Tree</b>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDISj4lrksqbvRIDjMgTWZDe0mUdXHZ01fkgGns6RZA_mHQ5Dy1IBduqMUUtDYlYaxd9FOAn2iocr7J2_JBx-7jzdz6k9-OW-PCTjqYy1PAlr39IlZDdeqRut1luCnk5tEvt3_eG6-9Q/s1600/4889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDISj4lrksqbvRIDjMgTWZDe0mUdXHZ01fkgGns6RZA_mHQ5Dy1IBduqMUUtDYlYaxd9FOAn2iocr7J2_JBx-7jzdz6k9-OW-PCTjqYy1PAlr39IlZDdeqRut1luCnk5tEvt3_eG6-9Q/s400/4889.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Well that just about concludes my post for today. I hope you've enjoyed this little craft project!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMheVT0w3buwJot-3B3iSjlq8sNPVTiiwQY7OIT5aORR6DlAaZge5WHN6nbuTW6qdA7bBfkRqhqm_-1rs_UETAwIE4W_ekzV5uY3FuCu6Bw347K4nNIubAv_pILxGKreL_PGgxoOvZXGA/s1600/4908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMheVT0w3buwJot-3B3iSjlq8sNPVTiiwQY7OIT5aORR6DlAaZge5WHN6nbuTW6qdA7bBfkRqhqm_-1rs_UETAwIE4W_ekzV5uY3FuCu6Bw347K4nNIubAv_pILxGKreL_PGgxoOvZXGA/s400/4908.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Thank you by the way, for all of your kind comments on my last post, I truly appreciate you taking the time to still visit this blog and leave me such thoughtful little notes. :)<br />
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I may not always be able to respond and/or reply right away, but please know that your visits and comments are always greatly appreciated and truly brighten my sometimes dark & gloomy days!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8JC37ZBPRU0mA-4s-W7jyX-X3-YMDcxjMOwZGMkbtgILy4FUeIF0uunYnnb-tF244unAjWh-L6zR9d5_UqIiubU099AdoqcqtnYo1LRM94b4E40XaTrIb_pSgwBsLmKV6i8IyOESsCGU/s1600/4892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8JC37ZBPRU0mA-4s-W7jyX-X3-YMDcxjMOwZGMkbtgILy4FUeIF0uunYnnb-tF244unAjWh-L6zR9d5_UqIiubU099AdoqcqtnYo1LRM94b4E40XaTrIb_pSgwBsLmKV6i8IyOESsCGU/s400/4892.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Until next time, enjoy the rest of your week & upcoming weekend!<br />
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Warmly,<br />
Jessie</font><br />
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Sharing with:<br />
<a href="http://www.jenniferrizzo.com/2013/01/fabulously-creative-friday-linky-party_24.html" target="_blank">Creative Friday Link Party</a><br />
<a href="http://www.504main.com/2013/01/tickled-pink-130.html" target="_blank">Tinkled Pink Party</a><br />
<a href="http://thethriftygroove.blogspot.com/2013/01/thrifty-things-friday-93.html" target="_blank">Thrifty Things Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://romantichome.blogspot.com/2013/01/skiing-is-like-riding-bike-and-show-and.html" target="_blank">My Romantic Home</a><br />
<a href="http://chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/2013/01/flaunt-it-friday-137.html" target="_blank">Chic on a Shoestring</a><br />
<a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/2013/01/24/feature-yourself-friday-101/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2013/01/feathered-nest-friday_24.html" target="blank">Feathered Nest Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2013/01/be-inspired-124-whats-inspiring-you.html" target="_blank">Common Ground</a><br />
<a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/2013/01/pink-saturday-january-25-2013.html" target="_blank">Pink Saturday</a><br />
<br />
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</center><br />
A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-13137917284039925712013-01-06T23:45:00.000-08:002013-01-07T09:31:06.040-08:00Happy New Year....and 2013 Changes!!!<center><font size="4"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4VLqWnHxTz_vNsEk94kHZudBjpYnmPuuPmxnqTPY9v09h2IJ0vEH3RoY0j4s_cTR0L4bmrH2x4DCKSLVSVGqiXhaGRZSqDWMQbIwa2jNfRHwYmlr-66FYb1d0USynt60GF-i973BKz2U/s1600/3844B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4VLqWnHxTz_vNsEk94kHZudBjpYnmPuuPmxnqTPY9v09h2IJ0vEH3RoY0j4s_cTR0L4bmrH2x4DCKSLVSVGqiXhaGRZSqDWMQbIwa2jNfRHwYmlr-66FYb1d0USynt60GF-i973BKz2U/s400/3844B.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I hope everyone had a most wonderful Holiday & New Year! Although the Xmas decor is down, I've still left the twinkle lights up on my mantle as I love the afterglow it gives.<br />
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I went to a local's Farmer's Market last Saturday morning and picked up these gorgeous roses in a shade of "plum violet."<br />
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So thought I'd share a few images of my mantle and to also let you in on a few changes over here at "A Cozy Cottage in the City."<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqG3YUhpbEoPw-EQ3Ib1KhFuyRBf_DgXNbefO9gL7hQUIKJHJSX_aWxJlv00w1tOGxa9rGVOx20HdfiD5SaX0QUJa8-ZJ5v5uSwmQXS8xRmZcBLvHSqoUS7_ZNWGvglAbmpSuFM5bBCY/s1600/3857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqG3YUhpbEoPw-EQ3Ib1KhFuyRBf_DgXNbefO9gL7hQUIKJHJSX_aWxJlv00w1tOGxa9rGVOx20HdfiD5SaX0QUJa8-ZJ5v5uSwmQXS8xRmZcBLvHSqoUS7_ZNWGvglAbmpSuFM5bBCY/s400/3857.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I know it's been nearly a year since I've "actively blogged" due to the issue with school, work, etc.<br />
<br />
And between long commutes and long hours at the library, I've had time to reflect on my thoughts, and really where this whole blog thing was going.<br />
<br />
I've pondered whether or not I should delete this little ole blog, my Facebook, Twitter, now Instagram...because I always felt that I was "holding back" on who I really was or am ~ or whatever the heck that may be, for that matter! **sigh**<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDx5e4imcnPPlz7dCVX-lBBGhq_c-4zq4Dd8WDvCnsBMfDrof1U11hT8vZHK-QyMzLcVIn16p_J5VvlwrJqUY4K0HzTaAI8rYruagys3TIyueiuntowcxoGc2RlBzhovja_YVUxClYjY/s1600/IMG_3859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDx5e4imcnPPlz7dCVX-lBBGhq_c-4zq4Dd8WDvCnsBMfDrof1U11hT8vZHK-QyMzLcVIn16p_J5VvlwrJqUY4K0HzTaAI8rYruagys3TIyueiuntowcxoGc2RlBzhovja_YVUxClYjY/s400/IMG_3859.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Face it, this is a public profile and one can't be too careful of what you put down because you never know who could be "reading it," and who you might offend and what not.<br />
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But after having "talks with myself" (yeah, I do have conversations in my head like the weirdo that I am) and with my hubby, I've come to the conclusion that I just need to be myself... <br />
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...whether it be creative, sarcastic, vulnerable, etc.! <br />
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Just as long as I'm being true to myself...and it's been such a long time since I've really felt that way for fear of losing a friendship or two.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBLzusvILld9-LlxItDX06-WMBzFNGNKDWMYY_ixUYdsaebB4K1oOedMWLTZTAlTSFMdOzEK8M2lK00sUzexFWjSt_OBY77FhZcqs8rTDUEHhE0PQF9DQClUDHYBmR67HTKopmVFNyys/s1600/3871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBLzusvILld9-LlxItDX06-WMBzFNGNKDWMYY_ixUYdsaebB4K1oOedMWLTZTAlTSFMdOzEK8M2lK00sUzexFWjSt_OBY77FhZcqs8rTDUEHhE0PQF9DQClUDHYBmR67HTKopmVFNyys/s400/3871.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
But the time has come to stop "walking on egg shells."<br />
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There are so many things going on right now in my life: some exciting, some confusing, others devastating, happy, wonderful...while others issues cause anxiety and fear.<br />
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Whatever it is that I choose to share at the moment, I hope you will come along my journey of life.<br />
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Some might not agree with what I may write or post about, but I've come to the conclusion that I can't please everyone, and that's ok.<br />
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So in celebration of 2013, I've decided to no longer let other people define who I am. <br />
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I need to break out of that shell that has somehow encased me within the last 10 years or so {because I'm not really sure what happened to the liberal & argumentative person that I can be}.<br />
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Self-deprecation and lack of confidence is not something that I want defining who I am...Even typing this down makes me quite nervous, but this is me.<br />
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I've had my share of blocking, deleting & removing people in my life that drain me...and if that issue arises the other way around, I'm ok with that too.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_8CnoB0KcgWTR4953utrwgaoaECEPjDUpW35DGlh8lLsvtsfYFxBHW_PSrvjVsbx4PeP9NhBBAWTljDId-BBd02hgwvf5W9HfWEw354fbmfpfJsxAIx-xO3DWYZ3zkBZzxrZEJwbL-c/s1600/3851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_8CnoB0KcgWTR4953utrwgaoaECEPjDUpW35DGlh8lLsvtsfYFxBHW_PSrvjVsbx4PeP9NhBBAWTljDId-BBd02hgwvf5W9HfWEw354fbmfpfJsxAIx-xO3DWYZ3zkBZzxrZEJwbL-c/s400/3851.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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And to you ladies that have reached out to me {you know who you lovely bloggers are} ~ thank you so much!<br />
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Just please be patient with me. I'm still working on improving my soul. That's the worst thing about being a perfectionist...you never think who you are and what you do are ever good enough.<br />
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At any rate, thanks for listening!<br />
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In the meanwhile, I've made my Instagram account private until further notice...who knows, maybe by the time you read this I might make it public again {still in the process of filtering certain people in my life}.<br />
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So here are a few images that I took of the Farmer's Market that I went to on Saturday. <br />
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All pictures are now taken on my phone, since I can't find my regular camera for the life of me {sorry for the quality!}.<br />
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Hope you enjoy the images as much I enjoyed taking them, and sorry if you are on my IG account and you are seeing these again! :)<br />
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Images above can be found on my <a href="http://instagram.com/acozycottageinthecity/" target="_blank">Instagram Account</a>.<br />
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Take care everyone and have a blessed day!<br />
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Warmly,<br />
Jessie<br />
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</font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-67526957013841010902012-12-23T23:53:00.000-08:002012-12-24T10:45:16.766-08:002 more days....<center><font size="4">Just two more short days before Christmas! I hope you are all enjoying the beauty of the season! <br />
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We just celebrated my hubby's Birthday yesterday...it was a milestone for him as it was his 40th! <br />
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Just made him a simple blue gray cake with glitter sprinkles. Orange butter cake with orange mousse filling, and buttercream icing. A bit of an exotic flavor for Christmas, but that's what the kids requested for their dad! :)<br />
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Enjoy the rest of your holiday! And thank you for stopping by my blog and leaving such kind comments on my <a href="http://acozycottageinthecity.blogspot.com/2012/12/holiday-decoratingand-some-updates.html" target="_blank">last post</a>. I'm so grateful to have lovely readers like you who take the time to leave a thoughtful note.<br />
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Merry Christmas & Have a Happy New Year!<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
Jessie<br />
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</font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-41736405794960582542012-12-19T23:45:00.000-08:002012-12-24T12:14:47.957-08:00Holiday Decorating...and Some Updates!<center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXbsG1ho9tvKOfW8Dc9IaCbtJ6UU9UvAsFkpYIwIxozKSQgrUrIvTulOsgnknjbYuUQgQfmISer8Xn8Z7mV3tCr_s6Yd6xDHIhlnsKM859PjhJtxRTO1TF4l2anSIt2qIjdOgzGoaEjo/s1600/PCnRoses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXbsG1ho9tvKOfW8Dc9IaCbtJ6UU9UvAsFkpYIwIxozKSQgrUrIvTulOsgnknjbYuUQgQfmISer8Xn8Z7mV3tCr_s6Yd6xDHIhlnsKM859PjhJtxRTO1TF4l2anSIt2qIjdOgzGoaEjo/s400/PCnRoses.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{pink, scented market roses & pinecones in a vintage tool caddy}</font><br />
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<font size="4">Happy Holidays my friends! I can't believe it's just a few short days away from Christmas ~ time sure goes by fast when you are having fun! :)<br />
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I am now officially done with finals, and am trying to spend this last week before Christmas with my boys & hubs, decorating, prepping for some family to arrive...and well, just making our home comfy & cozy for the holidays, despite many of the ongoing projects that still need to get done!</font> <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXItUkaenAZQqzBp8nd3B6pzpf5gsZnQWOylrsPMaC0OhAfcGcLUgwBuHTB0llabtM8-Kpa8vsINmH7ViXfx7FeC53HamuCftpnZJwxf4qkzpeIyCzoQQwOLrIyemXU6HOjwyT2qoNr-w/s1600/OrnamentBox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXItUkaenAZQqzBp8nd3B6pzpf5gsZnQWOylrsPMaC0OhAfcGcLUgwBuHTB0llabtM8-Kpa8vsINmH7ViXfx7FeC53HamuCftpnZJwxf4qkzpeIyCzoQQwOLrIyemXU6HOjwyT2qoNr-w/s400/OrnamentBox.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{unearthing vintage ornaments for decorating}</font><br />
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<font size="4">This post is going to be a "life post," and since I haven't really spent much time "styling & taking photos on my regular camera," I will be including images from my Instagram account {taken on my iPhone}, so if you already follow me on there or on Facebook, you'll be seeing these images for the 2nd & 3rd times.</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4AMuiorLLhracCXo07CU_Ewdn5wADQuxuMXygJ2e6BocCdnKIX4UaCGalEPnnE22JoarMzlLMn9YOmvisMfuR3wAppjF-cCFjDMBUe2UqRJAGqrWzEzn2kRt6ZsBDZecXxR9nRBoasDs/s1600/TinkeredTreasures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4AMuiorLLhracCXo07CU_Ewdn5wADQuxuMXygJ2e6BocCdnKIX4UaCGalEPnnE22JoarMzlLMn9YOmvisMfuR3wAppjF-cCFjDMBUe2UqRJAGqrWzEzn2kRt6ZsBDZecXxR9nRBoasDs/s400/TinkeredTreasures.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{tinkered treasures in a old French jam jar}</font><br />
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<font size="4">So hopefully you won't get too bored with it! For those of you who follow me regularly, or have been with me since the beginning of my blogging journey ~ well, you'll be getting some insight into my past, present & future. <br />
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Gosh only knows how much time I've spent reflecting during my commute early in the mornings & late evenings!</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBy2XSxBtWLRmNXBGumLOiJzLf0R26_vGeAAH4H1KO5wufzY11Nn4DCCcPSNRAVTgIjrcdw05-GFkg7NOOxJP6JosGSOXg7mYEij2tEicxDDqpQVrfg1keMrWtWk59cOD4yz8ga3k7BI/s1600/CandyCanes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBy2XSxBtWLRmNXBGumLOiJzLf0R26_vGeAAH4H1KO5wufzY11Nn4DCCcPSNRAVTgIjrcdw05-GFkg7NOOxJP6JosGSOXg7mYEij2tEicxDDqpQVrfg1keMrWtWk59cOD4yz8ga3k7BI/s400/CandyCanes.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{a pair of candy canes in an old Dundee jar "kept me company" during exam nights}</font><br />
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<font size="4">As some of you know, I decided to go back to school to embark on a path to a destination that I have been longing to get to for some time now.<br />
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This past semester, I took on a full load of 5 courses as part of my contingent plans of applying to a program, so that I can get into it {a program} for next Fall {of 2013}.</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGrHdR9rQxHF5za7CgHehpYtUajlDmlHFNMAELD81vpXy8ohp9sEbTb1xDB0lueuiDsfFCPc1BM3I3DXVIog_Lb1XWsHVs6YQJacxrSaMjYurFO0ZtTS8WSu6FHObyWE1xAelZ4G60o8/s1600/RoseTree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGrHdR9rQxHF5za7CgHehpYtUajlDmlHFNMAELD81vpXy8ohp9sEbTb1xDB0lueuiDsfFCPc1BM3I3DXVIog_Lb1XWsHVs6YQJacxrSaMjYurFO0ZtTS8WSu6FHObyWE1xAelZ4G60o8/s400/RoseTree.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{decorating with mini trees around my home before the outing for the "big one"}</font><br />
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<font size="4">But after multitasking home life, work, school...which meant late nights awake, early mornings up, and a 4.0 GPA later, I have decided to put my plans on hold for another semester or so, so that I can focus on the Number One thing in my life...my family.</font> <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE48J73l3-6MeKRz_C1j1_gV7WMz6scRoNymsnz1sX7p35TKSfGlk0X6tL16hFXnaK4BXt6aYKYBNThLcrhSNhABJLmuEHQ6JItal0IebXbWjAHMZqpFEUExXWKdR5IIaFknuYtY89FZc/s1600/TreePick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE48J73l3-6MeKRz_C1j1_gV7WMz6scRoNymsnz1sX7p35TKSfGlk0X6tL16hFXnaK4BXt6aYKYBNThLcrhSNhABJLmuEHQ6JItal0IebXbWjAHMZqpFEUExXWKdR5IIaFknuYtY89FZc/s400/TreePick.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{my little one picking out the main tree!}</font><br />
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<font size="4">Don't get me wrong, I still want to finish up this journey, but I really felt that I was "missing out" on so many things this semester with my family & close friends!<br />
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Next year, my little one will be starting kindergarten & my eldest will start his senior year in high school...and knowing how intense the program will be, and also knowing how hard I will be on myself once I am in it...well, I just didn't feel like there would be enough time to juggle family life and school life.</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF2NirNdn_TtbR3AWb0vUWqYBv1FXLWNpPoFea8SSh6nDys344fzvcIgF74zYkH4v3PUmgD_l3Cm7QsG7p7U46LBMWqaUASZZdKTL3M9HArFBYsMooWKUeJ75QQHC8Hpcb9fig9i4PR4o/s1600/GBdec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF2NirNdn_TtbR3AWb0vUWqYBv1FXLWNpPoFea8SSh6nDys344fzvcIgF74zYkH4v3PUmgD_l3Cm7QsG7p7U46LBMWqaUASZZdKTL3M9HArFBYsMooWKUeJ75QQHC8Hpcb9fig9i4PR4o/s400/GBdec.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{my boys working together to build a gingerbread house}</font><br />
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<font size="4">I just don't want to "miss a thing" in their lives right now.</font> <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3CVdoGi6vb3QYUd0bdvPJ8sIc-dO_0JoejGqdV8yrl6xKZU61OXeSLMm8LnVWNdvV33Fbtt5FbLp37mB-HXr7HIx51K-IvRp3tfbbM0M9aIi6nET6MQLaSsQgZT5JWZ3r-8xWgCwe7-A/s1600/GBhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3CVdoGi6vb3QYUd0bdvPJ8sIc-dO_0JoejGqdV8yrl6xKZU61OXeSLMm8LnVWNdvV33Fbtt5FbLp37mB-HXr7HIx51K-IvRp3tfbbM0M9aIi6nET6MQLaSsQgZT5JWZ3r-8xWgCwe7-A/s400/GBhouse.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{their gingerbread house!}</font><br />
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<font size="4">As you all know, life is too short to not be a part of every moment in it...especially when it comes to family and all the milestones that are experienced.</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsu6eYV6votIqOjkYXKwWbknyvhgkjoQsdrCkGJMyJ6eAiOAYrpwuWWJyhING4N_ySSznkZ3TfMp8cJ15CKv4drv80p5_XGJNjBp1KZpWHe92pGbvI1VEZjZQ0tIAU2NYOVnXTwtFp-HU/s1600/CandleTrio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsu6eYV6votIqOjkYXKwWbknyvhgkjoQsdrCkGJMyJ6eAiOAYrpwuWWJyhING4N_ySSznkZ3TfMp8cJ15CKv4drv80p5_XGJNjBp1KZpWHe92pGbvI1VEZjZQ0tIAU2NYOVnXTwtFp-HU/s400/CandleTrio.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{a little late night afterglow}</font><br />
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<font size="4">With that being said, I'm going to hold off on applying to a program, at least until after my sons get through their first semester {as a kindergartener & as a senior in high school, respectively}.<br />
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So although there are a few courses that I still need to take to better prep me for the program, they are not required to apply - I'm just thinking ahead as usual. :)</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDg5dhKsTA9Xo850ElpLAPfdIH0HVONOGgHl-HNzbDWeclJ5lubF6yuyToFWgjrGBaOiOMdZNYG1vImnLzM9zUKQ8TcU9RXkTZ10FVTsiOAaenBSHF-5_n0_DyP6x16AfThrGxbsEXNY/s1600/FabricHeart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDg5dhKsTA9Xo850ElpLAPfdIH0HVONOGgHl-HNzbDWeclJ5lubF6yuyToFWgjrGBaOiOMdZNYG1vImnLzM9zUKQ8TcU9RXkTZ10FVTsiOAaenBSHF-5_n0_DyP6x16AfThrGxbsEXNY/s400/FabricHeart.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{a fabric heart & some vintage glass}</font><br />
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<font size="4">But at least I'll have more time to spend with them. It just eases my mind as a mom to know that I'm going to be there for them at this critical time in their lives, even though I know they can be successful at what they do no matter what. <br />
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It just helps to have "mom rooting them on!" :) Plus I think my hubby enjoys it better when I'm "not so stressed!" lol </font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAXCqsy4Tdv5tf243iSOcUW-4ROqO458uxiokzj1DatJtH8z55aChxtFhqm8r-6AaftGQtnKLOfyPOCGAQWz7znI-7Cp6kAgmyLywH-aMaLB1niEJMQ_Aw-9eSbNvDV-Jlw5cN04kIMkQ/s1600/ShinyBrites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAXCqsy4Tdv5tf243iSOcUW-4ROqO458uxiokzj1DatJtH8z55aChxtFhqm8r-6AaftGQtnKLOfyPOCGAQWz7znI-7Cp6kAgmyLywH-aMaLB1niEJMQ_Aw-9eSbNvDV-Jlw5cN04kIMkQ/s400/ShinyBrites.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{shiny brites on an antique French plate}</font><br />
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<font size="4">Additionally, I feel like I've also isolated myself from my extended family & close friends...so if you are reading this, I apologize for being so "M.I.A." It's just that once I start something, I can get rather obsessed at trying to get through it successfully, that I often inadvertently exclude myself from various get togethers and what not...<br />
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Just know that I think of you all often {yes, you too my dear blogger friends}, and just because I'm not always present, doesn't mean that I don't wish that I was...</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fhHxOer7WAX7L2wyAq5JT3PXdfrxrAqzql4b3KxHseYUQnh2xbqT7e_jJr4o6gM5_xK-4X7jvOn0QSEG5XUv0-Amysg7q9ggRnZnLbh-7U71YFvWWs9bALECTlF2RqclbetPfVSa39g/s1600/SucreTin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fhHxOer7WAX7L2wyAq5JT3PXdfrxrAqzql4b3KxHseYUQnh2xbqT7e_jJr4o6gM5_xK-4X7jvOn0QSEG5XUv0-Amysg7q9ggRnZnLbh-7U71YFvWWs9bALECTlF2RqclbetPfVSa39g/s400/SucreTin.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{a mini tree in an old Sucre Tin}</font><br />
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<font size="4">But as of this past Monday, I have been "officially on vacation," and have been trying endlessly to get things in decent order around the house.<br />
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So many projects were left unfinished, and realistically many of the big projects will have to be put on hold until after the New Year, but I'm at least trying to get things looking somewhat normal since my parents will be visiting here, along with my sister and her family.</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifOhqO5DxMT0xxy2mLycy1ZMdzExWohl05SGdWEOUuZzJKz9Ha6vgFVfMlJhZ7owLGwaSaP_XK66qZMUOMwwDuDMAQ6p0cj99wIcwY20H9ufIxgVf1Uj_VoANgrHdE0mOpgtVykwOFpIY/s1600/MantelRight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifOhqO5DxMT0xxy2mLycy1ZMdzExWohl05SGdWEOUuZzJKz9Ha6vgFVfMlJhZ7owLGwaSaP_XK66qZMUOMwwDuDMAQ6p0cj99wIcwY20H9ufIxgVf1Uj_VoANgrHdE0mOpgtVykwOFpIY/s400/MantelRight.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<font size="2">{my mantel in November}</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQRZZeJDeZso-mknSzFo9Cd5ah57lrzjIAFSgAwEvwd9SghgMDtOcnZV6LndUir9E7m2AnNfzhoJBlQB-QahmI1Rx-j2qW4ZoTpY9WZ7jnrJ7EX8tbje-98TcFDEx6xRjGe_TES72F4o/s1600/MantelLeft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQRZZeJDeZso-mknSzFo9Cd5ah57lrzjIAFSgAwEvwd9SghgMDtOcnZV6LndUir9E7m2AnNfzhoJBlQB-QahmI1Rx-j2qW4ZoTpY9WZ7jnrJ7EX8tbje-98TcFDEx6xRjGe_TES72F4o/s400/MantelLeft.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<font size="4">I'm just glad that I started decorating my home for the holidays since before Thanksgiving! I've just been adding things here & there, as well as tweaking things a bit by rearranging and/or swapping things out. :) </font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppHL1k6Z4CV8QxSgQAmBAZBeHSQ-JPpVlZ-CyUaoLsw4_y8YOcxZlw0FmD4aQSpTFc_IzghLflgbJS9lvbTotGkQ9s1rrWHsJ9f5PAAoZCbL23qz4uwXkoi_hykINSLvKCFPiSGtkw34/s1600/OrnamentsHang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppHL1k6Z4CV8QxSgQAmBAZBeHSQ-JPpVlZ-CyUaoLsw4_y8YOcxZlw0FmD4aQSpTFc_IzghLflgbJS9lvbTotGkQ9s1rrWHsJ9f5PAAoZCbL23qz4uwXkoi_hykINSLvKCFPiSGtkw34/s400/OrnamentsHang.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{late night crafting & decorating}</font><br />
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<font size="4">I've also enjoyed baking cookies with my family...& also {unfortunately for my waistline} eating way too many sweets! ;)</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFEQTzvuYuoKG9X5-aMdsnfAclzCkKksVFYlltPQ_cFjEq8uYpxeMlCuOtm4dcWKQwTMnpLWIaP6XKCCNWluR4JGjvS9fPFfFok-iCHjBjCTecN2j_wjQJUkj3whj5Y9Sl5czvohbfarQ/s1600/MnMs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFEQTzvuYuoKG9X5-aMdsnfAclzCkKksVFYlltPQ_cFjEq8uYpxeMlCuOtm4dcWKQwTMnpLWIaP6XKCCNWluR4JGjvS9fPFfFok-iCHjBjCTecN2j_wjQJUkj3whj5Y9Sl5czvohbfarQ/s400/MnMs.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{yummy Peanut M & M's in a bowl ~ courtesy of the hubby}</font><br />
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<font size="4">Catching up on some leisure reading this week has been wonderful as well.</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7GqrO3yGImAGqgqPj8i9wBfBPAqa0O54kmuVwZlgt_68MD0_lQymG6l3AWI0_7ZrCnqS4gQyw_lhrZRZNd5dOimeta8AmF6Mjjv0uoCjWID5NMIMg6v5AC7zSxH7swv3T1Ift7b5-ks/s1600/JDLxmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7GqrO3yGImAGqgqPj8i9wBfBPAqa0O54kmuVwZlgt_68MD0_lQymG6l3AWI0_7ZrCnqS4gQyw_lhrZRZNd5dOimeta8AmF6Mjjv0uoCjWID5NMIMg6v5AC7zSxH7swv3T1Ift7b5-ks/s400/JDLxmas.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{Beautiful JDL Christmas issue}</font><br />
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<font size="4">More decorating...</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeXCie8caDhMQjSkQFRLUmW7xzVdBEZrt37lMJ7R77dQpNN9kxhtMpwR4PeB7igteCLskEdhmmJIWkS1pZeH5ex9tvwpvRkQnEpG23Dq7ULgN8sqe5xe-eyj5spYIqVcD6vu8r9AiEljY/s1600/OrnamnentsPink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeXCie8caDhMQjSkQFRLUmW7xzVdBEZrt37lMJ7R77dQpNN9kxhtMpwR4PeB7igteCLskEdhmmJIWkS1pZeH5ex9tvwpvRkQnEpG23Dq7ULgN8sqe5xe-eyj5spYIqVcD6vu8r9AiEljY/s400/OrnamnentsPink.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{pink vintage baubles on an old dessert plate}</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYRUwhcHSCXleE8rh8jGVcfAyblJB9zAs8uyGt3aGAkDR8WwrkEk1jUvktO9muVtm8KhmOy6He0tWwWjzitbNJUnANywncDmh1NelTUNknlv6PCqeF5JVU4haDtOXBdhaaGD8TekQpug/s1600/RosesPine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYRUwhcHSCXleE8rh8jGVcfAyblJB9zAs8uyGt3aGAkDR8WwrkEk1jUvktO9muVtm8KhmOy6He0tWwWjzitbNJUnANywncDmh1NelTUNknlv6PCqeF5JVU4haDtOXBdhaaGD8TekQpug/s400/RosesPine.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{fragrant roses & pine}</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMcGxUEooiHW8FLll3s5IZTyYlzZx7EHbpTQ754FfnLMCsL9nKDt1_XiPyiROVoeOEGz34A74D2P0Ngi2zIi_gu28z118xmd3xIb3nGelnIphTU-V1FjJgaDEWIEL_gMJpaDpMyLh_Eg/s1600/PlainTree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMcGxUEooiHW8FLll3s5IZTyYlzZx7EHbpTQ754FfnLMCsL9nKDt1_XiPyiROVoeOEGz34A74D2P0Ngi2zIi_gu28z118xmd3xIb3nGelnIphTU-V1FjJgaDEWIEL_gMJpaDpMyLh_Eg/s400/PlainTree.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{a mini tree by the fireside waiting to be decorated}</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsRUm-7fa1ya6dpMZhEkQLHjYL2lP7Td5XvcMdg_niXZAzwA8kXsJY_SOurE4lE5danGYHwAOcCYwZa-R-XQ3UXT_Vn7iQ8cTN0WGpR1561u6N1aiAGzeQSuukDfnzcjnV7pjt8yr1Uk/s1600/ReproShinyBrites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsRUm-7fa1ya6dpMZhEkQLHjYL2lP7Td5XvcMdg_niXZAzwA8kXsJY_SOurE4lE5danGYHwAOcCYwZa-R-XQ3UXT_Vn7iQ8cTN0WGpR1561u6N1aiAGzeQSuukDfnzcjnV7pjt8yr1Uk/s400/ReproShinyBrites.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{"new" shiny brites that I found at Home Goods earlier this month}</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWLLH8ZLzGdRuo8X5Aei6OdbWMIuCYRZW2AI9JlWJj0S9c4mK3kbfKEsfvQ45Xb4JeZy8E_d5KzCSFb15tjRm1VvXsJsj4tIB6RAk3n0PMr4eYMeVX9jZPbFdqyi2ogdGBhqnoKT-jxEI/s1600/MantelClose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWLLH8ZLzGdRuo8X5Aei6OdbWMIuCYRZW2AI9JlWJj0S9c4mK3kbfKEsfvQ45Xb4JeZy8E_d5KzCSFb15tjRm1VvXsJsj4tIB6RAk3n0PMr4eYMeVX9jZPbFdqyi2ogdGBhqnoKT-jxEI/s400/MantelClose.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{putting the twinkle lights on my December mantel}</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn08OX3S7LPpleuwf4ixmZB8qvQAMmCBs-FE0kzg34JcNHlwPxnhyphenhyphenGBqkYsZMqDKchTiOISv1ODSr1DchPOUAiZeWw0PZhlaH9PEe6po-umGNOCArm_VWjuWu4PEkyWHwIhCG00fEb9Sc/s1600/OrnamentsPlate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn08OX3S7LPpleuwf4ixmZB8qvQAMmCBs-FE0kzg34JcNHlwPxnhyphenhyphenGBqkYsZMqDKchTiOISv1ODSr1DchPOUAiZeWw0PZhlaH9PEe6po-umGNOCArm_VWjuWu4PEkyWHwIhCG00fEb9Sc/s400/OrnamentsPlate.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{more pink lovelies}</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7e6Mc1pcfq7bzrE9XRJH9UUt7FXml8ZiQOXkzYTNdH35jJBb21sOP17QePi9xAOgmAj4ECwsrCkjMIeshYfIFIxt9zY68yLkHBGVUuRGw5JGymdYY-VdwhG7FyoH5Dg-rv5fSVKdsCs0/s1600/PaiselyHearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7e6Mc1pcfq7bzrE9XRJH9UUt7FXml8ZiQOXkzYTNdH35jJBb21sOP17QePi9xAOgmAj4ECwsrCkjMIeshYfIFIxt9zY68yLkHBGVUuRGw5JGymdYY-VdwhG7FyoH5Dg-rv5fSVKdsCs0/s400/PaiselyHearts.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{paper paisley hearts}</font><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBuIAmfv3Q2-rcJ_ZY-Wc7xTcNMNc5qqOGoPn6yLnrDuH3MpF0VUCf-HqmUH7bUse0vK4AB7OI2ZDT_o0_FwTawm3aJsyG-mRrpyY4xdvGhf_OQa9OvZdbsa_FbH0y1pDz7jAATNpBlo/s1600/Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBuIAmfv3Q2-rcJ_ZY-Wc7xTcNMNc5qqOGoPn6yLnrDuH3MpF0VUCf-HqmUH7bUse0vK4AB7OI2ZDT_o0_FwTawm3aJsyG-mRrpyY4xdvGhf_OQa9OvZdbsa_FbH0y1pDz7jAATNpBlo/s400/Tree.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2">{enjoying fairy lights on the decorated tree}</font><br />
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<font size="4">Well my friends, that is all for today. Now I'm off trying to spend as much time with my family as I can, whilst enjoying this lovely season. <br />
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May you all have a most blessed Christmas Holiday & lovely New Year!<br />
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Warmly,<br />
Jessie</font><br />
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<br />
<br />
<font size="2">Sharing with: <br />
<a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2012/12/holiday-home-tour-2012-linky-party.html">Faded Charm</a><br />
<a href="http://thebrambleberrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/12/time-travel-thursday-128-talented-time.html">Time Travel Thursday</a><br />
<a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/12/feathered-nest-friday_20.html">Feathered Nest Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/2012/12/home-sweet-home-98.html">Home Sweet Home</a><br />
<a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2012/12/vintage-inspiration-119-counting-days.html">Vintage Inspiration Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/2012/12/home-for-the-holidays-pink-saturday-december-22-2012.html">Pink Saturday</a></font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-3529416631319925712012-11-25T23:45:00.000-08:002012-11-26T00:51:18.084-08:00Life in Pictures...a touch of Christmas<center><font size="4">Hello dear friends! Did you have a wonderful Thanksgiving? I sure did, and I'm still reeling from the aftermath of all the food that I have pretty much gorged on!<br />
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At any rate, thought I'd share a some photos of "Life in Pictures." I'm in the middle of preparing for my finals between now and mid-December, so here are some images from my Instagram account letting you know what I have been up to in the last month.<br />
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I apologize in advance if you are an Instagram follower and have seen these photos already. :) <br />
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As you know, I started decorating for the holidays pretty early on. I think I'm making up for the fact that I started decorating for Christmas late in December last year due to our chaotic fixer uppper projects...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo82t3tYNPPT6MLWLp4vwQYLqLP0K939D577auBvO7VzKK5F1WMGxO9VgguRt-VpmNKhoZIY9455c2F-FuStyD4ZQD2fZ8tvx0P8NbsOmFO4zR8LkweYYiYiLKQTj7btZdbwfAAL-_MVk/s1600/Moutarde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo82t3tYNPPT6MLWLp4vwQYLqLP0K939D577auBvO7VzKK5F1WMGxO9VgguRt-VpmNKhoZIY9455c2F-FuStyD4ZQD2fZ8tvx0P8NbsOmFO4zR8LkweYYiYiLKQTj7btZdbwfAAL-_MVk/s400/Moutarde.jpg" /></a><br />
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Just a touch of Christmas throughout the home. Including an antique maille pot adorned with an tea light set inside a vintage French chocolate mold...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-Ky3tumvQVudmAe_xw7uEABZB3avT2EAlwWZOBkIMA25qMS5MfwMvyKsb_ikcE6w5jHVmVSAxTfMpgJ8J-hC15mtbaJinbDBSoEGyMtJhSQkBpYiDfgwdYoNl8TlAIbRxC3qwPDiE4U/s1600/Sainsbury.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-Ky3tumvQVudmAe_xw7uEABZB3avT2EAlwWZOBkIMA25qMS5MfwMvyKsb_ikcE6w5jHVmVSAxTfMpgJ8J-hC15mtbaJinbDBSoEGyMtJhSQkBpYiDfgwdYoNl8TlAIbRxC3qwPDiE4U/s400/Sainsbury.jpg" /></a><br />
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And a pink shiny brite ornament atop an old English meat pot.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid9ik3IDL1ZVH-uvWtcT8d2EBE3JppTWs9ORv2wPzjVO3JLjnDrtybJQKGC5u5XGkclZ0o1opdwQvfv-y6NJIG9LvXI4xm4HnuYaCoIYshqS42jGDO-4n63kZ_rruepu7wsN-ou8YAXb0/s1600/Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid9ik3IDL1ZVH-uvWtcT8d2EBE3JppTWs9ORv2wPzjVO3JLjnDrtybJQKGC5u5XGkclZ0o1opdwQvfv-y6NJIG9LvXI4xm4HnuYaCoIYshqS42jGDO-4n63kZ_rruepu7wsN-ou8YAXb0/s400/Tree.jpg" /></a><br />
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Shimmery baubles & lights...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNAxYcOO49h0QxVfQqxI5QaexQrjiISC37zPIQY4Z5fta7ZRhQA-fZIoHOh8aRFyZ5mlvIGBvXLX6lG2YWu4y-SI183pIf2YMquE0rmgbLl8yOzNng38sT_zaowXpI8kTqajX44Q1YUbY/s1600/StripedHearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNAxYcOO49h0QxVfQqxI5QaexQrjiISC37zPIQY4Z5fta7ZRhQA-fZIoHOh8aRFyZ5mlvIGBvXLX6lG2YWu4y-SI183pIf2YMquE0rmgbLl8yOzNng38sT_zaowXpI8kTqajX44Q1YUbY/s400/StripedHearts.jpg" /></a><br />
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Striped fabric hearts in a white ironstone dish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pgoEaTp7C5n1nZ82uZWrfp7tZxddx0nO3GeM4fElnsH0-jo53ueALluBltNowPUV0inr_5PFj1VLXW_flv5L2aT4k5ZQipTqspqX9WXeAFqHEUGBCWiNu4_L-5E-gqecVZoUsGyrWTI/s1600/XmasPlate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pgoEaTp7C5n1nZ82uZWrfp7tZxddx0nO3GeM4fElnsH0-jo53ueALluBltNowPUV0inr_5PFj1VLXW_flv5L2aT4k5ZQipTqspqX9WXeAFqHEUGBCWiNu4_L-5E-gqecVZoUsGyrWTI/s400/XmasPlate.jpg" /></a><br />
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A Christmas dessert plate...perfect to place "cookies for Santa." :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckWIwMDPc4rKcmy5xD7ti5aL-j4PKkh-MCRHqwAk9Yhd-a9OuvZKfm1LrmVOvaAUs4adf1rlN6u3NwDUIHbDRc-EjxEDZbWVc5NVYGmUtPgthFnUb6gR8_8VTsUrlOMmxw8cWYxyZU6c/s1600/CandyCanes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckWIwMDPc4rKcmy5xD7ti5aL-j4PKkh-MCRHqwAk9Yhd-a9OuvZKfm1LrmVOvaAUs4adf1rlN6u3NwDUIHbDRc-EjxEDZbWVc5NVYGmUtPgthFnUb6gR8_8VTsUrlOMmxw8cWYxyZU6c/s400/CandyCanes.jpg" /></a><br />
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A Jar of Candy Canes. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vHhP0fRRc_3wIXtJPAjvv-b3QhZ7vYd74KJnqUxIxCYqi_-8eg6quRocv-LaBfodhqP22dmbXmlV6plG6XYQDQU5q-NcH1eTAEtYRXcLLBvu6LPLHZbibEWjkC_s5s2bnOIVKyw0u4o/s1600/EtsyCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vHhP0fRRc_3wIXtJPAjvv-b3QhZ7vYd74KJnqUxIxCYqi_-8eg6quRocv-LaBfodhqP22dmbXmlV6plG6XYQDQU5q-NcH1eTAEtYRXcLLBvu6LPLHZbibEWjkC_s5s2bnOIVKyw0u4o/s400/EtsyCard.jpg" /></a><br />
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I even received my first Christmas Card of the Season from a lovely Etsy vendor, and here it is displayed on a vintage french door. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWo2dTLRnY7vQ5WiiuIsx8zfL7hSmrwHzsAb-yJGUpXo67mwtK5EWVetHp30I7sVKqnWMjoMudTBcy4d6eEmeBiulwPbfMmEYQWzFYDPtv-4fNn3qCyn37F8n0bxXOQXVwx8GbWL0B3BI/s1600/Poupon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWo2dTLRnY7vQ5WiiuIsx8zfL7hSmrwHzsAb-yJGUpXo67mwtK5EWVetHp30I7sVKqnWMjoMudTBcy4d6eEmeBiulwPbfMmEYQWzFYDPtv-4fNn3qCyn37F8n0bxXOQXVwx8GbWL0B3BI/s400/Poupon.jpg" /></a><br />
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More vintage french chocolate molds inserted with a tea light atop an old dijon jar.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRVxMyz-JYXchBth6Q6WNvwzXkcGERq9kQ42wCbOOWG8mGTJ3iMPcYx8TYf5-WV0mrn-hfG1jJjARjDbQhHICx6Ld2p7GBMmyTHhpwTPJZOwK6CKjM5rQpL1v9OY62jHD3g35JBskerbY/s1600/Bottle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRVxMyz-JYXchBth6Q6WNvwzXkcGERq9kQ42wCbOOWG8mGTJ3iMPcYx8TYf5-WV0mrn-hfG1jJjARjDbQhHICx6Ld2p7GBMmyTHhpwTPJZOwK6CKjM5rQpL1v9OY62jHD3g35JBskerbY/s400/Bottle.jpg" /></a><br />
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A "message in a bottle." ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTs3NMZcTDMqmXULyFulbV04qgv-x7FzGNYUujBFtcRr2hSdup-ShMHwm2u2CHIFIf8Hg6sb9TpTI8DJhO623UmbBdNEi1yUzZsHHAwOgyu1LpWyh3V64UglGCM2rCBeyWmcq5hf3LuNM/s1600/IkeaWreath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTs3NMZcTDMqmXULyFulbV04qgv-x7FzGNYUujBFtcRr2hSdup-ShMHwm2u2CHIFIf8Hg6sb9TpTI8DJhO623UmbBdNEi1yUzZsHHAwOgyu1LpWyh3V64UglGCM2rCBeyWmcq5hf3LuNM/s400/IkeaWreath.jpg" /></a><br />
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I even placed a simple wreath with hanging fabric hearts on the door leading to the laundry room off our kitchen.<br />
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Well that just a about concludes my "Touch of Christmas" over here at A Cozy Cottage in the City. :) I hope you enjoyed these images.<br />
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I still have so much decorating to do, hopefully I can get that all done once finals are over. In the meanwhile, I've been getting tons of inspiration from the lovely reads below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiq0NCkLra17ObWIClQO7tICPgV_ayIfSYD53QjOTkTk1HjOnD5YUiCYc75GO6_f5uzSPDi34SDuUxxPFPLFDYAvxrzVENaG-Pg5jkvRZDnSxyvGQKzboZRefKxD5qnENXXcYe4m6rwTM/s1600/TrioBooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiq0NCkLra17ObWIClQO7tICPgV_ayIfSYD53QjOTkTk1HjOnD5YUiCYc75GO6_f5uzSPDi34SDuUxxPFPLFDYAvxrzVENaG-Pg5jkvRZDnSxyvGQKzboZRefKxD5qnENXXcYe4m6rwTM/s400/TrioBooks.jpg" /></a><br />
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So if you don't already have these publications, I really recommend them! I'm still on the search for a vendor that is selling the Vintage By Nina Christmas book...so if you know of a seller that has one in stock...please let me know! :)<br />
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For now I am enjoying the rest of my Thanksgiving holiday here in Central Cali at my parent's home.<br />
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I am so thankful to get to spend another holiday with my 90 year old father!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2zblFvvE1Wve0S86rLccBl8kKLeB8LUXwvVkFdqQDTErqgUoR_C_OVF7cokZ7tmGD92tQV-dmRK3ZoGMxsLgwkwqgFeRwmeeULFaopGvoqw1tOEno7ZSDTl84dgUvIz-5_uOuBKGsxI/s1600/Blooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2zblFvvE1Wve0S86rLccBl8kKLeB8LUXwvVkFdqQDTErqgUoR_C_OVF7cokZ7tmGD92tQV-dmRK3ZoGMxsLgwkwqgFeRwmeeULFaopGvoqw1tOEno7ZSDTl84dgUvIz-5_uOuBKGsxI/s400/Blooms.jpg" /></a><br />
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I also love that my boys get to spend another Thanksgiving with their dear grandfather! It means so much to have him in their lives!<br />
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Spending quality time with family and doing a little antique shopping here in Central Cali is what I call a "vacation." <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ryygzH6SdcsboWhw5XWH4pfczO9aNsNiLUMGIiqTRT81jvWzBI1qyGgBATaIB4pDaOHH9T4evrYHRKEDUgkXGgumnlBMJRdPsbzVh-eFN7cq2olnBLF2-sjwXC68flpxZFKk5MFsVoU/s1600/Diner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ryygzH6SdcsboWhw5XWH4pfczO9aNsNiLUMGIiqTRT81jvWzBI1qyGgBATaIB4pDaOHH9T4evrYHRKEDUgkXGgumnlBMJRdPsbzVh-eFN7cq2olnBLF2-sjwXC68flpxZFKk5MFsVoU/s400/Diner.jpg" /></a><br />
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I even got a chance to have lunch yesterday with my hubby at an original Woolworth's Diner! :)<br />
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By the way, I just want to mention that the Winter Issue of Homebound Magazine is now available <a href="http://postroadvintage.com/blog" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0u5ObxImsDGTORECarmro4DVtutwJSmQK3-KsFfED1gorCfTq7FxICI5ndZLx9Xp77PhbgzYPKUn9N5efOuR6X2O_h5sk6h90l7UNpq8WBZSZ2erlEBQ6M_6smHYA3wN-JIYg9N0A9I/s1600/PostRoadVintage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0u5ObxImsDGTORECarmro4DVtutwJSmQK3-KsFfED1gorCfTq7FxICI5ndZLx9Xp77PhbgzYPKUn9N5efOuR6X2O_h5sk6h90l7UNpq8WBZSZ2erlEBQ6M_6smHYA3wN-JIYg9N0A9I/s400/PostRoadVintage.jpg" /></a><br />
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Heather @Post Road Vintage does such a wonderful job, and it's an issue full of ideas & inspiration. I highly recommend you visit Heather's blog to get your hands on this issue, you won't be disappointed!<br />
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Also on my reading list this month is the Holiday Issue of the Souvenir Lifestyle Magazine available <a href="http://souvenirlifestyle.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmIQa2ESY4L_YySND_6aXuPbOVJjcuwwk_hBCnEWjE3NGZLEmXXJ47V1omhDJtGVbDZA94e8u2ZK-32iFRXqkAp9OIHfz20ORin9skf0goQyczqrnv-1PbL4tPc53Mjy5g6laWsiD5Lk/s1600/Souvenir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmIQa2ESY4L_YySND_6aXuPbOVJjcuwwk_hBCnEWjE3NGZLEmXXJ47V1omhDJtGVbDZA94e8u2ZK-32iFRXqkAp9OIHfz20ORin9skf0goQyczqrnv-1PbL4tPc53Mjy5g6laWsiD5Lk/s400/Souvenir.jpg" /></a><br />
{photo via Souvenir Mag}<br />
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I can't even begin to tell you all of the lovely eye candy & inspiration that is in this issue too! :)<br />
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Well, that is all for today. I hope you are enjoying your holiday weekend so far. Until next time, have a blessed day!<br />
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XOXO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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</font></center><br />
A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-52265127841267973752012-11-10T20:45:00.000-08:002012-11-10T20:49:58.328-08:00Winter Inspired Whites & Instagram<center><font size="4">Ok, a second post in two days? Yes, I know that's an all time record considering I haven't blogged on a regular basis lately.<br />
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Which leads me to what I wanted to say ~ if you are on Instagram, feel free to follow me on that site if you have an account. You'll pretty much be able to see what I'm up to on a {nearly} daily basis when it comes to school, life, and decor. ;)<br />
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My kids pretty much persuaded me to pull down the autumn decorations and put up some Christmas decor, so here are just a few images that I'd thought I'd share with you. <br />
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Most of these are from my Instagram account (images taken from my phone) ~ enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsc_tAqfB2qMk6sqJ1038SLT8jKQzkVu8dhYLR87tQ9HBphg6ehZAYbQn5T5e6NtPELjOKS7f7jLjI4_cdqmMl8ovvRKG0a3mkFSMkTneEx4OZwQHi4Y_fXZ-LgdJYlIb_BCCJy1JTP-c/s1600/4461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsc_tAqfB2qMk6sqJ1038SLT8jKQzkVu8dhYLR87tQ9HBphg6ehZAYbQn5T5e6NtPELjOKS7f7jLjI4_cdqmMl8ovvRKG0a3mkFSMkTneEx4OZwQHi4Y_fXZ-LgdJYlIb_BCCJy1JTP-c/s400/4461.jpg" /></a><br />
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Yep, a little tree went up. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpTCPo365phQ46MBsBSra191NLs1CbPOtXn7vtCkrQmHKT3XFg9zv7j1ToHUE8Fyr7DsFmu_UE0hKih3_f2kSyBW4x9rl3KUJ2kI2kNyOkh7H58xR78RV31gLoN-3zVykOfllEEmJvcY/s1600/f53595e02b0e11e2a31922000a1fbcdc_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpTCPo365phQ46MBsBSra191NLs1CbPOtXn7vtCkrQmHKT3XFg9zv7j1ToHUE8Fyr7DsFmu_UE0hKih3_f2kSyBW4x9rl3KUJ2kI2kNyOkh7H58xR78RV31gLoN-3zVykOfllEEmJvcY/s400/f53595e02b0e11e2a31922000a1fbcdc_7.jpg" /></a><br />
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Enjoying a little nautical inspired afterglow.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTo4cV34sQgtTCQs-K3E2zE0MkwgQGDV61ZFMFOJx6yGgT71qE7fKF1mYu-vSapWlh8-tpyXHSWmOWTagq_5HeHpSaYld5gwlCwyAfDcSfD4SFwseVKDhypOImaq2YBffSzPkoN1p9nzA/s1600/26c628f02b6d11e2ae9122000a1f9aa7_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTo4cV34sQgtTCQs-K3E2zE0MkwgQGDV61ZFMFOJx6yGgT71qE7fKF1mYu-vSapWlh8-tpyXHSWmOWTagq_5HeHpSaYld5gwlCwyAfDcSfD4SFwseVKDhypOImaq2YBffSzPkoN1p9nzA/s400/26c628f02b6d11e2ae9122000a1f9aa7_7.jpg" /></a><br />
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Love this simple silver metal tree decoration.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqv3jLH1bcEGnVr9M75zykPAsqH1xMmlJIfWDCIfRuTjc99nQLQSSBxc6RwxnAiaVwbTCLP0SHKvzUgcZAOLBbpRAbMhrVdoU6u-wyQSejfoI1UU5ufGbLJ6sMskbv9FzFotUMg-FVbg/s1600/936af7f82b0c11e29a9c22000a1fbe09_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqv3jLH1bcEGnVr9M75zykPAsqH1xMmlJIfWDCIfRuTjc99nQLQSSBxc6RwxnAiaVwbTCLP0SHKvzUgcZAOLBbpRAbMhrVdoU6u-wyQSejfoI1UU5ufGbLJ6sMskbv9FzFotUMg-FVbg/s400/936af7f82b0c11e29a9c22000a1fbe09_7.jpg" /></a><br />
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A shiny vintage ornament atop a old English meat pot. I have a ton of meat, mustard & marmalade pots, so thought I'd put them to use this holiday season. :)<br />
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Well that just about concludes my brief interlude of my Winter Inspired Whites (I say "inspired" because the weather can still get to as warm as 100 degrees over here!)!<br />
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But before I let you go, I just had to put a shout out to my hubby. <br />
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Apparently, I didn't realize that he was paying attention to the fact that I had been eyeing this book from <a href="http://www.frenchlarkspur.com/item_263/A-Touch-of-France-Book.htm" target="_blank">French Larkspur</a> for some time now. It was such a pleasant surprise and a sweet treat to receive this in the mail!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2U7fJY9gQJA1jKmCCZ_ZoCBv_Tde0Whu0izVsyeeYHlsz1KC3LXZZ69KEqZxThQDHgWjF0ED_yK2sZcny7MV1XIiMdCWkSPhJnuQHX9TP5FIgnm__bO7RCjThxUnfVfKjEJ-QHL-5Iwg/s1600/620fa366293111e2aeb222000a1f9e7e_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2U7fJY9gQJA1jKmCCZ_ZoCBv_Tde0Whu0izVsyeeYHlsz1KC3LXZZ69KEqZxThQDHgWjF0ED_yK2sZcny7MV1XIiMdCWkSPhJnuQHX9TP5FIgnm__bO7RCjThxUnfVfKjEJ-QHL-5Iwg/s400/620fa366293111e2aeb222000a1f9e7e_7.jpg" /></a><br />
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Well, that is all for now! Hope you are enjoying the weekend so far (and the 3 day Veteran's Day weekend here in the states). :)<br />
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XOXO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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<br />
</font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-24410302584255982252012-11-08T23:30:00.000-08:002012-11-09T12:20:05.740-08:00A Touch of Fall<center><font size="4">Greetings friends! How are you all this lovely November? I hope you are all enjoying the season no matter where you are.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiak9MLwpFgqi0njYfX_FtQY5ZaokLZh1I4aefEUHxjX0wDjiLsi9bwURRiNldqR2Ym7gTd7TCdSZbnUNKyJccXFh9nwL1b2yuysdWWaQWgh1GRiWC324z6uytH1-tBQVUdloI2VaNP9eY/s1600/4440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiak9MLwpFgqi0njYfX_FtQY5ZaokLZh1I4aefEUHxjX0wDjiLsi9bwURRiNldqR2Ym7gTd7TCdSZbnUNKyJccXFh9nwL1b2yuysdWWaQWgh1GRiWC324z6uytH1-tBQVUdloI2VaNP9eY/s400/4440.jpg" /></a><br />
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Over here in Southern California, the weather has been rather warm so it was a little difficult to get into the "Autumn Season" - especially when it's still 100 degrees on some days!<br />
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Because my schedule has been rather hectic, I wasn't able to decorate as much as I'd like to, but I did manage to squeeze in a "touch of fall" here and there, and thought I'd share a few images with you all.<br />
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Nothing fancy, just a few simple touches on my mantle and living room.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL1GtxVsjPfQLAE9tqIy17bF0WzunaGOuyB1H9WB8teRph9DtMpvvE0ZyNTJttONJVjsdhDL3pIZ9vFLz2KO5F0aZGnXAWjxGCCT6eGmxg3le6bFIkBWDNWoGzUG6sLRh0L3-zakALApM/s1600/4437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL1GtxVsjPfQLAE9tqIy17bF0WzunaGOuyB1H9WB8teRph9DtMpvvE0ZyNTJttONJVjsdhDL3pIZ9vFLz2KO5F0aZGnXAWjxGCCT6eGmxg3le6bFIkBWDNWoGzUG6sLRh0L3-zakALApM/s400/4437.jpg" /></a><br />
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Mercury candlesticks & pillar holders, various antique french mustard jars, a few baby pumpkins, a "Riz" canister, and a vintage french milk pitcher ~ all grace my mantle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvYnq2kWm1mSEuaPxk28FHlN4bw5lsGA03FJpjnKpO_aKNTeng1LhVRKMSLJltB6v_weuGn4i3_7d8c-i4KKG8OW5SMCTKr771PEabyVlJVOKyHEGvx5Jwvolt1ggV8JJpaE2y9-08EE/s1600/4441b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvYnq2kWm1mSEuaPxk28FHlN4bw5lsGA03FJpjnKpO_aKNTeng1LhVRKMSLJltB6v_weuGn4i3_7d8c-i4KKG8OW5SMCTKr771PEabyVlJVOKyHEGvx5Jwvolt1ggV8JJpaE2y9-08EE/s400/4441b.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WJipwU4qRpWLZryqJ2kfEfi8Gvajej6NUbY-O0QU2eG4XgfU_DEoTBQKuh9IO9buIQEJj8Xwm3uSQP2okAFwj2l2x-bB9xOW0p3_7rKB7l3plCxOY04OTVzEf0d4NhBcqjrOFaWGOuM/s1600/4438b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WJipwU4qRpWLZryqJ2kfEfi8Gvajej6NUbY-O0QU2eG4XgfU_DEoTBQKuh9IO9buIQEJj8Xwm3uSQP2okAFwj2l2x-bB9xOW0p3_7rKB7l3plCxOY04OTVzEf0d4NhBcqjrOFaWGOuM/s400/4438b.jpg" /></a><br />
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I would have liked to put some blooms in there, but unfortunately time {or lack thereof}, seemed to get the best of me. ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nXOcq4MTZIm-2BS7DYnNOfI5-l2VAqB33Em3umQaVdek3lI7-HgHvz0gz9e9gLYY8Lo_rEjtDvkSFxNI_FyGf1-MFunpTEX82-RnkJLo-5CfGLUuUfsNPZQkdpkYNK2gROFqugBn7UA/s1600/4439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nXOcq4MTZIm-2BS7DYnNOfI5-l2VAqB33Em3umQaVdek3lI7-HgHvz0gz9e9gLYY8Lo_rEjtDvkSFxNI_FyGf1-MFunpTEX82-RnkJLo-5CfGLUuUfsNPZQkdpkYNK2gROFqugBn7UA/s400/4439.jpg" /></a><br />
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And just for fun, I couldn't resist but throw in this vintage inspired autumn sign in my decor too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh36DG8X9bvXlckkcme2v6YgkG1ZaXp7pf0rOVrsUm8aMF-LsCo5PtZAvtf3El6nwBAKkfdAm5B-6hs-XfLjgdxNDnOxnZodwnR2FVXvAMr2sVZ6tSjss1o5lx4RGaBPMbJ-8O0qQxx8gs/s1600/4446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh36DG8X9bvXlckkcme2v6YgkG1ZaXp7pf0rOVrsUm8aMF-LsCo5PtZAvtf3El6nwBAKkfdAm5B-6hs-XfLjgdxNDnOxnZodwnR2FVXvAMr2sVZ6tSjss1o5lx4RGaBPMbJ-8O0qQxx8gs/s400/4446.jpg" /></a><br />
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Besides, what would fall be without "5 cent hayrides & cider," right? ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP00ouDRJnlL5RjRJ1s3gYda6spNV-fRgbsTMB5q5CSLju7ghVZh2IeZ66uEG0q3qpIAcFr6-P3lcbkepSe0K7BFqQz_ee-Ujlj65FSMF3iRBYl0GmTQImVUuQClkmCCNcax0OwllNYI4/s1600/4445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP00ouDRJnlL5RjRJ1s3gYda6spNV-fRgbsTMB5q5CSLju7ghVZh2IeZ66uEG0q3qpIAcFr6-P3lcbkepSe0K7BFqQz_ee-Ujlj65FSMF3iRBYl0GmTQImVUuQClkmCCNcax0OwllNYI4/s400/4445.jpg" /></a><br />
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So there you have it ~ a few shared images of a touch of fall on my mantle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb1Jg-YE3DY0zMgoRJI4kC3fR3hI4XeNw_rRfhnwjU5MuctGl1tR3ExwnqJCYDuPgdK3mDLu4lVV8QJuuOXuJBK9ujP_Mfj9Mi516k6KyFBG8mxqLldxZb3u2-B9-hi_lyJPhyr5yv6FA/s1600/4434b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb1Jg-YE3DY0zMgoRJI4kC3fR3hI4XeNw_rRfhnwjU5MuctGl1tR3ExwnqJCYDuPgdK3mDLu4lVV8QJuuOXuJBK9ujP_Mfj9Mi516k6KyFBG8mxqLldxZb3u2-B9-hi_lyJPhyr5yv6FA/s400/4434b.jpg" /></a><br />
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But I also wanted to share this gorgeous autumn arrangement that was delivered to me on Halloween. <br />
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My hubby surprised me with these lovely blooms, and thought I'd also share some photos of them because they were just too pretty not to share. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG5ZUKkKziBHp_QY-1nfyn_iDUSeZQkSWBWv3ckE_h1CmlvdCemtqkrxg_PwXjT5XSAzGvmywhpO1AvlzTC2mg76psKpA3uleUm5KeJ3Bbtxw7GGZt7qnyIV90OZqWxS4jfcsnstFqMCg/s1600/4428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG5ZUKkKziBHp_QY-1nfyn_iDUSeZQkSWBWv3ckE_h1CmlvdCemtqkrxg_PwXjT5XSAzGvmywhpO1AvlzTC2mg76psKpA3uleUm5KeJ3Bbtxw7GGZt7qnyIV90OZqWxS4jfcsnstFqMCg/s400/4428.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwfVRsvuNhpHvj68-0TM53ojeQXnvCtS0Mc4SFaK3IvkZod04J3ToR7WtLNKcZq1-aevLPzUWu9g_7w8rxC69rSyRn4-Ze8-z2ZynslMXZJ912f8RqOM2S1BF6e1MHAGS6VXizIN1_Ig/s1600/4429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwfVRsvuNhpHvj68-0TM53ojeQXnvCtS0Mc4SFaK3IvkZod04J3ToR7WtLNKcZq1-aevLPzUWu9g_7w8rxC69rSyRn4-Ze8-z2ZynslMXZJ912f8RqOM2S1BF6e1MHAGS6VXizIN1_Ig/s400/4429.jpg" /></a><br />
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Roses, lilies & hydrangeas...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx49KHDywvFhsBLyIXy-aX5Ufn8Uh7OAC6u-epA7MJ_fPKc25DV0JuokxFxJ8FnQV0x6wZDUwpojOBwJ1-dJaDIddO_b37NRgBrCkkkPL_M7cYcK9ca5BD4bi7aprdJQi_LyigPvRF7PA/s1600/Collage3233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx49KHDywvFhsBLyIXy-aX5Ufn8Uh7OAC6u-epA7MJ_fPKc25DV0JuokxFxJ8FnQV0x6wZDUwpojOBwJ1-dJaDIddO_b37NRgBrCkkkPL_M7cYcK9ca5BD4bi7aprdJQi_LyigPvRF7PA/s400/Collage3233.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVv5CMfBQBroLL5pd_fmUrh9LXvlTxvef6FuL5w9Q1zQA6k0qOtl2XKp4EF-MO661hHVGBd0QOi4H-SpahjmpgRr-jSva2cLzqSal2cOP-Cm0PK8Nuuo9T9V_RdzK-Ju7aF1-X36wLik/s1600/4429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVv5CMfBQBroLL5pd_fmUrh9LXvlTxvef6FuL5w9Q1zQA6k0qOtl2XKp4EF-MO661hHVGBd0QOi4H-SpahjmpgRr-jSva2cLzqSal2cOP-Cm0PK8Nuuo9T9V_RdzK-Ju7aF1-X36wLik/s400/4429.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUKJ1aVRO9yaqYtPXWFGCgvhNRZ4ARaZm64h2Ac69Syo9ECpVID6WtxDb93ktuoOTo3h88OfoQOCcYS_IWWnuoaRINmRDAx8MfJ5XHzdS4orPTfOzYtQQGOxJcI663r-xs3al9ZcSXgg/s1600/4430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUKJ1aVRO9yaqYtPXWFGCgvhNRZ4ARaZm64h2Ac69Syo9ECpVID6WtxDb93ktuoOTo3h88OfoQOCcYS_IWWnuoaRINmRDAx8MfJ5XHzdS4orPTfOzYtQQGOxJcI663r-xs3al9ZcSXgg/s400/4430.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQMoBPPTRS3QGljaRrb0bvlsxWeBs614RZjRl4PhVyV5wR7DmDGqoZMJpLsxp7VLDJHFzOGGl6cRV7A4KUV8w4cSpB-zHMNgeEc6dIkMLBiPerSDwq16-WrVwt9P-iKfF8rSR0UZhlMw/s1600/4443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQMoBPPTRS3QGljaRrb0bvlsxWeBs614RZjRl4PhVyV5wR7DmDGqoZMJpLsxp7VLDJHFzOGGl6cRV7A4KUV8w4cSpB-zHMNgeEc6dIkMLBiPerSDwq16-WrVwt9P-iKfF8rSR0UZhlMw/s400/4443.jpg" /></a><br />
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Well that just about concludes my simple "touch of fall decor" over here at A Cozy Cottage in the City! :) I still have so much to share, so hopefully I can do another post soon!<br />
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Thank you by the way, for all of you who continue to visit and leave comments on my little old blog - your friendships are always greatly appreciated! <br />
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Until next time, have a glorious and blessed rest of the week!<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
</font></center><br />
<center>Sharing with:<br />
<a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/2012/11/serving-up-autumn-pink-saturday-november-10-2012.html">How Sweet The Sound</a><br />
<a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Feathered Nest Friday</a> @French Country Cottage<br />
<a href="http://thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/2012/11/home-sweet-home-92.html">Home Sweet Home</a> @The Charm of Home<br />
<a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2012/11/vintage-inspiration-113-christmas.html/">Vintage Inspiration Friday</a> @Common Ground<br />
<a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/2012/11/its-inspiration-friday-no-89-welcome.html">Inspiration Friday</a> @At the Picket Fence<br />
<br />
</center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-39949524898393138822012-09-21T22:15:00.000-07:002012-09-21T22:15:21.499-07:00Life in Pictures<center><font size="4"><br />
Happy {almost} Autumn my friends! Tomorrow marks the Autumn equinox ~ the first day of the Fall! ;) So thought I wish everyone some early Autumn Greetings!!! ;)<br />
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I can't believe that summer has come and nearly gone! I have been trying to enjoy these fleeting moments with my family while juggling my very hectic schedule with work, school & fixer upper projects.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNHhkfROjEJy541iNuceJ_xy5lqj7QaanUdD_2l7cqvLp3ObYQO5p9cgOXdvJHZ5kYNijDh01POHIje_j-SPIaIKezVTKM2OzO1NbTeWHjQynkW76TZRornQ0ywg4REPUdf_0UV00WvLM/s1600/Happy+Autumn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNHhkfROjEJy541iNuceJ_xy5lqj7QaanUdD_2l7cqvLp3ObYQO5p9cgOXdvJHZ5kYNijDh01POHIje_j-SPIaIKezVTKM2OzO1NbTeWHjQynkW76TZRornQ0ywg4REPUdf_0UV00WvLM/s400/Happy+Autumn.jpg" /></a> <br />
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Since the last time I posted, there have a been a few milestones that have occurred over here at "A Cozy Cottage in the City!" So thought I'd share some of these "Life in Pictures" moments with you all.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQ4eZ7D7K39fYhskyvNzKXfUHdbofiEya2jK8ufgGaYiwHiFQLQfYWjXV56lxUFyqMQeujCs6F_qrEB_3sguNk4xPvGv04ilfhKSDXg9wMvLqDViLBWPJMOBkmw_BhVTRL5IiKv8WxLg/s1600/Bike+Ride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQ4eZ7D7K39fYhskyvNzKXfUHdbofiEya2jK8ufgGaYiwHiFQLQfYWjXV56lxUFyqMQeujCs6F_qrEB_3sguNk4xPvGv04ilfhKSDXg9wMvLqDViLBWPJMOBkmw_BhVTRL5IiKv8WxLg/s400/Bike+Ride.jpg" /></a><br />
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Earlier in August, my youngest learned how to ride his bike without training wheels for the 1st time! <br />
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He actually was the one who insisted that dad "remove" his training wheels, so there is my 4 year old sans training wheels with daddy in tow right behind him!<br />
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This little guy also recently celebrated his birthday, and here he is enjoying his special day with one of his cousins! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTCT7HsDN8Gzrcv95MeqxlIm1EDeglD8e5qSm9U4gytYBmIxP-xGv-K829UY50FCL2BBQz2pZq_G7UBPArdZdqRoAcVbXXo7T3do1qniy9_ZeC3NNVVhC-z6zDbykoijF1PRc8PsWZgSc/s1600/PoliceCar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTCT7HsDN8Gzrcv95MeqxlIm1EDeglD8e5qSm9U4gytYBmIxP-xGv-K829UY50FCL2BBQz2pZq_G7UBPArdZdqRoAcVbXXo7T3do1qniy9_ZeC3NNVVhC-z6zDbykoijF1PRc8PsWZgSc/s400/PoliceCar.jpg" /></a><br />
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Less than two weeks later, my eldest son celebrated his birthday! I simply cannot believe that I have 16 year old teenager ~ it seems just like yesterday that I was pregnant with him! <br />
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Time goes by way too fast!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnPv1WdA5Hi1BYW8EOqfvQyG6TIIcwN5UQrFsBe8HrvqmIRBC6H7cK6rmwiSUiAAdh2GCfcTigyRFHabBxZ2pJJtStYN6KbzRGPjGB72I5BZuEoukWwisJeYOw7XzEaamYmSREajl7hIA/s1600/16+Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnPv1WdA5Hi1BYW8EOqfvQyG6TIIcwN5UQrFsBe8HrvqmIRBC6H7cK6rmwiSUiAAdh2GCfcTigyRFHabBxZ2pJJtStYN6KbzRGPjGB72I5BZuEoukWwisJeYOw7XzEaamYmSREajl7hIA/s400/16+Cake.jpg" /></a><br />
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Lastly, I celebrated my Birthday with dinner and movie with my sweet hubby! "Date night" is always so much fun! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaw6FBIGvnA9AY8jTmGqOWhJPAm8j-b_dRxuzjyWJCQQK6NbUzNR-MxfIAPEyTAfvBogLG3-SqJQAsrQZNaX0E-LNYUGXtGK1KsIUc_-7WO0ZVneJH43-gMwS92D8SdiJsEelmnyC9OzE/s1600/Drink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaw6FBIGvnA9AY8jTmGqOWhJPAm8j-b_dRxuzjyWJCQQK6NbUzNR-MxfIAPEyTAfvBogLG3-SqJQAsrQZNaX0E-LNYUGXtGK1KsIUc_-7WO0ZVneJH43-gMwS92D8SdiJsEelmnyC9OzE/s400/Drink.jpg" /></a><br />
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The cocktail above was a "Balsamic Martini" with muddled {fresh} strawberries, it was actually quite good! ;)<br />
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I also ended up chopping off a number of inches off my hair when I turned 36 {recall from an older blog post, how I was on the fence about cutting it}! <br />
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My sister took me out for a "spa day" and then went shopping {well, she did most of the shopping}. I feel so blessed to have a sister who is so generous and kind!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu5qUdFBCGv9Q-FbZ2hMKgy0OATnxhgINkLchXjR1l8xOaAIVo13DUc3OS7NjfYQ5y7S6jMzp-yNOYE1HoAlui9KKz7LoBkAgIcOwnRYghq_7FGlPHxFkkUpU6Uc1wGHWBP6qo607fDNc/s1600/Bday+Girls+Better.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu5qUdFBCGv9Q-FbZ2hMKgy0OATnxhgINkLchXjR1l8xOaAIVo13DUc3OS7NjfYQ5y7S6jMzp-yNOYE1HoAlui9KKz7LoBkAgIcOwnRYghq_7FGlPHxFkkUpU6Uc1wGHWBP6qo607fDNc/s400/Bday+Girls+Better.jpg" /></a><br />
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So other than that, we've just been trying relish in the season! Here are my boys enjoying the last of summer's harvest!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6fxgmpJhQL2byL1R6XdY36bZlv6FquOnxzaEiRY2_dDvqEY04oFI3f4igbecv8CI9CjT4w43FPW38CUcqVlbTz14r8WVjPqPFwzqSacPYyNM_wd9eyL8GoOf6H6ssW1ruaHV8cxP4do/s1600/BoysWatermelon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="309" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6fxgmpJhQL2byL1R6XdY36bZlv6FquOnxzaEiRY2_dDvqEY04oFI3f4igbecv8CI9CjT4w43FPW38CUcqVlbTz14r8WVjPqPFwzqSacPYyNM_wd9eyL8GoOf6H6ssW1ruaHV8cxP4do/s400/BoysWatermelon.jpg" /></a><br />
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We also went to the beach last weekend they just LOVED the blue green waters of the Southern Pacific Coast!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGacfrgGktFiESwvYueuKRjLEtBYRH073Ey4bqyvWfj28oB8bQijOGqzvkbPaS1ILDJsAuoaeJNtMweSoBJAHk7rzNxOamgHW4ksw18456f19DncSgbetxp4ffEFfBgOoHS63sTtl59Y/s1600/Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGacfrgGktFiESwvYueuKRjLEtBYRH073Ey4bqyvWfj28oB8bQijOGqzvkbPaS1ILDJsAuoaeJNtMweSoBJAHk7rzNxOamgHW4ksw18456f19DncSgbetxp4ffEFfBgOoHS63sTtl59Y/s400/Beach.jpg" /></a><br />
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Here they are wading through the beaches of Point Dume, in Malibu. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckpxJVQvc018nP75fnSUkT8XApk4SEhPJM3BBp0Fp7YKzVz6oeq9LakiN48qR2gR7tNd2712r_6IB9rWxktBfI22fxHh03APySig3RyX9kAOtyZC0j79c5Vgn8lStJpQIKw1rGEVs5XI/s1600/Beach+Boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckpxJVQvc018nP75fnSUkT8XApk4SEhPJM3BBp0Fp7YKzVz6oeq9LakiN48qR2gR7tNd2712r_6IB9rWxktBfI22fxHh03APySig3RyX9kAOtyZC0j79c5Vgn8lStJpQIKw1rGEVs5XI/s400/Beach+Boys.jpg" /></a><br />
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As summer draws to an end, I do look forward to the cooler weather, the turning of the leaves in fall, and all things autumn!<br />
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Like seeing pumpkins at the market...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuhy7Dh8hCn-Gv7UBq62fDtzwugEO2npHmWRUbkOR7D3S480bgQN8B32t0TAjqpuXPo-A8zA770hIVko1PlL2cKBzBIa4YRmFZ_8uVsXT-bJFtxq6ccVsbFnGZsbH4_wl9Exc0ZiDarY/s1600/Pumpkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuhy7Dh8hCn-Gv7UBq62fDtzwugEO2npHmWRUbkOR7D3S480bgQN8B32t0TAjqpuXPo-A8zA770hIVko1PlL2cKBzBIa4YRmFZ_8uVsXT-bJFtxq6ccVsbFnGZsbH4_wl9Exc0ZiDarY/s400/Pumpkins.jpg" /></a><br />
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..and baking pumpkin pies & making homemade icing & cutout sugar cookies with my little one in fun shapes like ghosts, bats & cats! I can't wait until Halloween and all things fall!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgo-mWw4ddXyFsqGlKH-VZn_oqLGqbmVHoEEi02Gj77MCnEl_teIyjGJ78hoXKojbfrxs3PqbkL-vBu3r9hFgPovl6TBy_REh-yDPhqFBFc7MU8vlToT7idKed9wiF91yTv2kq5ff6kg/s1600/Pumpkin+Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgo-mWw4ddXyFsqGlKH-VZn_oqLGqbmVHoEEi02Gj77MCnEl_teIyjGJ78hoXKojbfrxs3PqbkL-vBu3r9hFgPovl6TBy_REh-yDPhqFBFc7MU8vlToT7idKed9wiF91yTv2kq5ff6kg/s400/Pumpkin+Pie.jpg" /></a><br />
{You can find the original recipe to my Pumpkin Pie by <a href="http://acozycottageinthecity.blogspot.com/2011/11/autumn-in-my-kitchen-part-deux-recipes.html" target="_blank">clicking here</a>}<br />
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Let's not forget the abundance of apples, which means making apple cider and of course baking apple pies!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOp5CFquu4hWGltjCYslgm5nmogJTKEOOHhnZkCkA1x7Cf0Ea88LvKZngmRxkRk619ZKna3e51YmJiMxzo0wukBCdCULZpEmPFBE1UcxqJIl5tekz5NoVG6ANdV-8uj3qegvky7AHvANo/s1600/Apple+Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOp5CFquu4hWGltjCYslgm5nmogJTKEOOHhnZkCkA1x7Cf0Ea88LvKZngmRxkRk619ZKna3e51YmJiMxzo0wukBCdCULZpEmPFBE1UcxqJIl5tekz5NoVG6ANdV-8uj3qegvky7AHvANo/s400/Apple+Pie.jpg" /></a><br />
{You can find the original post on my making "apple pies" by <a href="http://acozycottageinthecity.blogspot.com/2011/09/autumn-in-my-kitchen.html" target="_blank">clicking here</a>}<br />
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In other news, I went to the Goodwill earlier last month and found this little gem for $30! And boy have I got some plans for her!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLnRSLE8up1VuwQ9qp-R3eMRUF_qrLlqHjftUkiw__VJEVLxdIiMnSwKS6q_iOGNfQPLa6hxYfePf9R5gXQcHSJdrUTqIDqrAjfNhKiZ8_vlvGAlEp5pK_PxSIAvO7ODLs-rb7wWITo8/s1600/Frenchy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLnRSLE8up1VuwQ9qp-R3eMRUF_qrLlqHjftUkiw__VJEVLxdIiMnSwKS6q_iOGNfQPLa6hxYfePf9R5gXQcHSJdrUTqIDqrAjfNhKiZ8_vlvGAlEp5pK_PxSIAvO7ODLs-rb7wWITo8/s400/Frenchy.jpg" /></a><br />
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Trying to figure out what color to paint her...white, grey, maybe a turquoise blue?!?! What say you?!?!<br />
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Lastly, I finally put up my "French Market Sign" & Toile Cafe curtains in my kitchen {before, we were using the original curtains that came with the house}. <br />
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I layered it this way because we are pretty close to my neighbors {ah the life in the city}, so this way I can keep the bottom closed and leave the top open and let in some light, while still getting some privacy! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqtnDQrKwrzqBDbK4QS_htEKYlEK6X81x4w8JBnkXxuco2BCp9zjiwMLdmEFFt4f_HVq56FU1Y2pPC3Nc5-9NwkuSD2xfZYsG8o73VFuYbPn9cZIiH-kC9VRylzHFiAFe6tEltzgR38S8/s1600/Toile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqtnDQrKwrzqBDbK4QS_htEKYlEK6X81x4w8JBnkXxuco2BCp9zjiwMLdmEFFt4f_HVq56FU1Y2pPC3Nc5-9NwkuSD2xfZYsG8o73VFuYbPn9cZIiH-kC9VRylzHFiAFe6tEltzgR38S8/s400/Toile.jpg" /></a><br />
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Well, that is all for now! Between my son's football games, my little one's T-Ball games, school, work and home projects, I barely have enough time to breathe! <br />
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Most pictures above can be found on my <a href="http://followgram.me/acozycottageinthecity/modal" target="_blank"><font color="orange"><b>Instagram</b></font></a> that I just signed up for not too long ago. So if I'm not blogging, you can find me there and of course on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Cozy-Cottage-in-the-City/140178979419304" target="_blank"><font color="orange"><b>Facebook Fan Page</b></font></a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><font color="orange"><b>Twitter</b></font></a> accounts.<br />
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Well I do hope you are all enjoying the season, be sure to relish & take in the beauty of it! Until next time.<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Cozy-Cottage-in-the-City/140178979419304" target="_blank"><font color="orange">Facebook</font></a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><font color="orange">Twitter</font></a><br />
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</font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-75845578177816555262012-09-02T23:30:00.002-07:002012-09-06T17:54:27.984-07:00{Accidentally} Vintage ~ Swedish Grey<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSZHBLEJQefp7JXL_KhtKeGamXSXJJLuYylEYBZpeHKK5wEpoR_0n2RBk859c5tmQYZMqvqYpF95Gut_Y__4a9bNryP-IwppbO5f8nFSC_ryqJBbTTzK4QSxWllCScnZVO1YDbRKY3Qk/s1600/4109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSZHBLEJQefp7JXL_KhtKeGamXSXJJLuYylEYBZpeHKK5wEpoR_0n2RBk859c5tmQYZMqvqYpF95Gut_Y__4a9bNryP-IwppbO5f8nFSC_ryqJBbTTzK4QSxWllCScnZVO1YDbRKY3Qk/s400/4109.jpg" /></a><br />
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<font size="4">Greetings my friends! <br />
I know it's been almost a month since my last post, so I apologize for the long gap in between. <br />
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Before I update you on what I've been up to in the last few weeks, thought I'd share with you a little Annie Sloan Chalk Paint project that I started early last August. <br />
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{Incidentally, this is NOT my first Annie Sloan paint project. <br />
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My first project involves a French Vintage Vanity that I am actually also done with ~ but will plan to post about it later. ;)}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQuhRbYVbwGf2cTorOFhFUZFBt2qWv3hSfcDnkHJ_Xx9wXQlQyiGlhC3RINTg_WmZ0m4f2u2wgbnR7WhE1B6U89ANAr46qn4P5SPwnzb4JB9U3uCpKcioHITWhmtKCwFhnDJn0mh8oac0/s1600/3853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQuhRbYVbwGf2cTorOFhFUZFBt2qWv3hSfcDnkHJ_Xx9wXQlQyiGlhC3RINTg_WmZ0m4f2u2wgbnR7WhE1B6U89ANAr46qn4P5SPwnzb4JB9U3uCpKcioHITWhmtKCwFhnDJn0mh8oac0/s400/3853.jpg" /></a><br />
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It all began with this old mirror that was laying idly {on the floor} of my laundry room.<br />
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This mirror actually came with the house, and I knew at one point I'd want to repaint it white.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiviTucOWGrOZueQjjOlG_n8GtIxWPiRVyL6kQtadsLctJ9uwWjAHqGfE9f9XIi5YX2_TGqkT7Cygu4MvLyai8ps375dz7QS3z8gE-bzVoSp3W3idtioDCDP7noZnwrIcg1i4KPV-IidOc/s1600/3854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiviTucOWGrOZueQjjOlG_n8GtIxWPiRVyL6kQtadsLctJ9uwWjAHqGfE9f9XIi5YX2_TGqkT7Cygu4MvLyai8ps375dz7QS3z8gE-bzVoSp3W3idtioDCDP7noZnwrIcg1i4KPV-IidOc/s400/3854.jpg" /></a> <br />
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So once I had gotten my hands on some free ASCP from a previous giveaway, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to give it a new look.<br />
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I actually had planned to just paint it with a coat of Old White ~ no distressing, just plain old white by ASCP!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MR4fSX25KDBzjevGnyNxEuBE6W_OoeH7OD2C_czuiRca71IoF6-a8nsdH9gwM7A-1pn3K9tnG94fL8iURJhFxmxIXUeEZDOeTp02sGs1ZUUK8wz62MIdzyLP1DufjBb4EbxBCy6nU-A/s1600/3856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MR4fSX25KDBzjevGnyNxEuBE6W_OoeH7OD2C_czuiRca71IoF6-a8nsdH9gwM7A-1pn3K9tnG94fL8iURJhFxmxIXUeEZDOeTp02sGs1ZUUK8wz62MIdzyLP1DufjBb4EbxBCy6nU-A/s400/3856.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Well, after I hung it on my bathroom wall, I felt that the Old White mirror was clashing with the plain white wainscoting....so I decided to paint over it with a pale shade of grey, reminiscent of a Swedish Grey.<br />
<br />
I started out with Old White, and then slowly added a few drops of Paris Grey until I was satisfied with the shade.<br />
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I had only wanted to distress this mirror ever so lightly. But as I was smoothing out the paint with my sanding block....this happened:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXo1akCg-mx2g6s4V09ZEJxgz_TvbXDuvRSlQFls75eq8E8BdcOVwdcfDyKNkqTvRGM1qTl0IUDCkqBu4TTu-ih0DKLkvUpWpWv0vgWBy36bx0f_dw1WFj1oreZj9stX_BXoC2Qijogwk/s1600/3934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXo1akCg-mx2g6s4V09ZEJxgz_TvbXDuvRSlQFls75eq8E8BdcOVwdcfDyKNkqTvRGM1qTl0IUDCkqBu4TTu-ih0DKLkvUpWpWv0vgWBy36bx0f_dw1WFj1oreZj9stX_BXoC2Qijogwk/s400/3934.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Turns out I ended up sanding all the way down to the original dark walnut wood frame {oops, my bad...I wasn't paying attention! lol}. <br />
<br />
Soooo....I had to improvise because I surely didn't want to repaint it. So then I decided I'd just continue distressing it all around.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIAT4xrRooY7gvm6MQAHLJNdYA8qAhVE0PLA4apE20AXr4-Kg6rbCCVNOYGp3U5olDHIxczg_YvmIu-tU940vx_xJ-2u3-lXrqj0hZGP9P57iHZf_EkpGn4Kn8neINBF-5342y4wQuc8/s1600/4138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIAT4xrRooY7gvm6MQAHLJNdYA8qAhVE0PLA4apE20AXr4-Kg6rbCCVNOYGp3U5olDHIxczg_YvmIu-tU940vx_xJ-2u3-lXrqj0hZGP9P57iHZf_EkpGn4Kn8neINBF-5342y4wQuc8/s400/4138.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
With some white paint peeking through in some places....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Db9Xg3zELd59vknqBksG2lvyIHcC930D7qRgFqOV9vWyGQ-NmUc-t6Bz8mg3cvpCRyyzQmgrHnBTyWecCIbLUJnLFnLH6-9yl15nn5H3xVoWvtR2CIvxe6FIHUWvfeCFmnWKW3ZPB-M/s1600/4132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Db9Xg3zELd59vknqBksG2lvyIHcC930D7qRgFqOV9vWyGQ-NmUc-t6Bz8mg3cvpCRyyzQmgrHnBTyWecCIbLUJnLFnLH6-9yl15nn5H3xVoWvtR2CIvxe6FIHUWvfeCFmnWKW3ZPB-M/s400/4132.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
And with some dark wood showing through in others...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PDwnPHxMmRZ4i6PAahruE67l_V_nKJ6KZtI0rhEvx7wmWb6rGb2zpd3FgW7UFXZ74pBQ_ANNTD4P7V9Fjcw919copE55adT-Ojz2rgDNpgEQ9RwTvYMjiiu0ao1w7kvJKSBhoyj-k8s/s1600/4133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PDwnPHxMmRZ4i6PAahruE67l_V_nKJ6KZtI0rhEvx7wmWb6rGb2zpd3FgW7UFXZ74pBQ_ANNTD4P7V9Fjcw919copE55adT-Ojz2rgDNpgEQ9RwTvYMjiiu0ao1w7kvJKSBhoyj-k8s/s400/4133.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
At first I was really HATING the way this was coming out because I was really disappointed at the fact that I wasn't going to have a plain grey frame.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddxSRnDh5wcIzkutOcNC_iKH58wkMH7UoDAlTUC4AgcBZJk2gn39yglF4la7PtBUzSdLxcoAUsG_1wz0A6jEYvMeo8qOFNmF3oytlWFhKLFMF2JlV68DnmaAYRzYBBPf7gdW_-lYx_nw/s1600/4139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddxSRnDh5wcIzkutOcNC_iKH58wkMH7UoDAlTUC4AgcBZJk2gn39yglF4la7PtBUzSdLxcoAUsG_1wz0A6jEYvMeo8qOFNmF3oytlWFhKLFMF2JlV68DnmaAYRzYBBPf7gdW_-lYx_nw/s400/4139.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
But as I continued to use my sanding block here and there, I started to like the way the walnut wood and white paint layers were showing up underneath the grey coat, just the way it would have looked if a vintage frame had been painted a few times over the years...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfQUpNSZbHaW1Pg-xv0M3FYl5Bowfr1vV1Iq-xxCfOuR2bGuu2O_TZFgkHCAYrNBOpd1eiCDagqSVeWIRUqml_PR-n3fwDferboaHmDZuom0U_c9Z9vB8f2su6gYWwBx8svt2iphLXeM/s1600/4118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfQUpNSZbHaW1Pg-xv0M3FYl5Bowfr1vV1Iq-xxCfOuR2bGuu2O_TZFgkHCAYrNBOpd1eiCDagqSVeWIRUqml_PR-n3fwDferboaHmDZuom0U_c9Z9vB8f2su6gYWwBx8svt2iphLXeM/s400/4118.jpg" /></a><br />
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And once I added a bit of dark wax in some places and then finished it off with a clear coat of wax all around, the light shade of grey deepened a bit to give it a richer hue...and this is how it turned out hanging in the main bathroom.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQN8tc4n31t736Zn2W2zqn7vrASa3NQOgdeHhnZwFc1aOeB-fCqNMN5DqBOtuV6H3JWwuIdAZWIMlEE7BHUBTh9a8Wcawcs5Vmg7hfL5DHtL0T9jrHD2ZYyzwZcspOubyVts12Z7pU1w/s1600/4137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQN8tc4n31t736Zn2W2zqn7vrASa3NQOgdeHhnZwFc1aOeB-fCqNMN5DqBOtuV6H3JWwuIdAZWIMlEE7BHUBTh9a8Wcawcs5Vmg7hfL5DHtL0T9jrHD2ZYyzwZcspOubyVts12Z7pU1w/s400/4137.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Please excuse the funky lighting, as I don't get much natural light in this bathroom due to just one teeny tiny window right above the bathtub. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqHWF8FuxGnokOtnIYIdtQ8IEblD9WFtyGKfILTGJZuAUxw4srLQe_h1xChCxEM-vG6_T-gptWWqYQV_ewW-FDoe1S27y3W4R5YSNpCJ3DjfbDX5dhGhSroqD29vwcWsjZltPO4r2waQ/s1600/4135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="328" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqHWF8FuxGnokOtnIYIdtQ8IEblD9WFtyGKfILTGJZuAUxw4srLQe_h1xChCxEM-vG6_T-gptWWqYQV_ewW-FDoe1S27y3W4R5YSNpCJ3DjfbDX5dhGhSroqD29vwcWsjZltPO4r2waQ/s400/4135.jpg" /></a><br />
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It was also really hard to take pictures in such a narrow space, hence the angled images {otherwise, you'd see a glimpse of me in the mirror with camera in hand}. ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhffkCVX7r0gLyy5N8_8NRffcb8qOGKDbkp9V7tHSyoW8OqVo8rNJ59TpL5KGlxEBovnY9Lg8B9T5eYL5QUTNMBSm_Qv-Z9U2bbaXJ_QobqeDHchl3u9WErQW1PwxrEJ4WrnKFamdbYdp8/s1600/4125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhffkCVX7r0gLyy5N8_8NRffcb8qOGKDbkp9V7tHSyoW8OqVo8rNJ59TpL5KGlxEBovnY9Lg8B9T5eYL5QUTNMBSm_Qv-Z9U2bbaXJ_QobqeDHchl3u9WErQW1PwxrEJ4WrnKFamdbYdp8/s400/4125.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
This bathroom is a constant work in progress, since I'm still searching for just the right piece to put into this unique and small space.<br />
<br />
Also, you can't tell in these images but the paint color is actually a bluish grey color {way more blue then grey}, called "Iced Cube Silver" by Benjamin Moore {in Satin Sheen}.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI85cxsNuY95BrD_H-4Eug4qImWEKQil9KEDS1ojuiG_yWVQo9urMonxJWWu2Enb6awNr7yI1Pe4LAb4e9g5VorJ_UvoNM5L5jk8-odkda9ZbungOvj0JXn8idVPS142KhTwWirGJ_pfE/s1600/4126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI85cxsNuY95BrD_H-4Eug4qImWEKQil9KEDS1ojuiG_yWVQo9urMonxJWWu2Enb6awNr7yI1Pe4LAb4e9g5VorJ_UvoNM5L5jk8-odkda9ZbungOvj0JXn8idVPS142KhTwWirGJ_pfE/s400/4126.jpg" /></a><br />
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This room also used to have really hideous wallpaper that was peeling and coming apart...so glad those days are over! ;) <br />
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Light blue Toile shower curtains are now hung with vintage inspired glass shower rods.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQHrihNhVkYytaPo5Pq9lHmE1x2NkmEzBOFC_SVq9dsDYw76uoKJ5_FWjflQ_fWQQ1yFkHO8fYUxW_VxRK1O5uPuJC-KSnzleCeKFqZxh1pQqTrtXca8Xb8IBB9xE_6XaBeYMVOxrsHM/s1600/4112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQHrihNhVkYytaPo5Pq9lHmE1x2NkmEzBOFC_SVq9dsDYw76uoKJ5_FWjflQ_fWQQ1yFkHO8fYUxW_VxRK1O5uPuJC-KSnzleCeKFqZxh1pQqTrtXca8Xb8IBB9xE_6XaBeYMVOxrsHM/s400/4112.jpg" /></a><br />
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The tiny window above the tub is not "frosted," {we only put in new windows in the front of our house} so for privacy, I just use plain white tension rods and ring clips to hang some second hand linen up. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1w1zQEriss_t-81pw2Ehw32BB5CJtF9peblaYNKpwFSXwbsxYzkrgv8UBvwx_kEpzwVQ0-6Tdd8o4iTpXeLa3Fz-Mu535xUB_uDGf7hkw4kEw4HMs-IRtbz3Yi6SfjMXu2B7vUI-b2EY/s1600/4116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1w1zQEriss_t-81pw2Ehw32BB5CJtF9peblaYNKpwFSXwbsxYzkrgv8UBvwx_kEpzwVQ0-6Tdd8o4iTpXeLa3Fz-Mu535xUB_uDGf7hkw4kEw4HMs-IRtbz3Yi6SfjMXu2B7vUI-b2EY/s400/4116.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
So there you have it ~ images of my "Accidentally Vintage" Swedish Grey mirror, and a glimpse of my main bathroom. ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_-5l4mOxe8V4CeSVS2oyKzoFT_Kan2L6eqPTERNhUbS7whQGmSMk4CAYYG9zh9BfEXvuxAEGXfN2KIFvgY7T704XR5DkVLqlh75WLJQmHTf_zYTDy4ajCMj9Kw4ELwMGfkZQjNmisR8/s1600/4104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_-5l4mOxe8V4CeSVS2oyKzoFT_Kan2L6eqPTERNhUbS7whQGmSMk4CAYYG9zh9BfEXvuxAEGXfN2KIFvgY7T704XR5DkVLqlh75WLJQmHTf_zYTDy4ajCMj9Kw4ELwMGfkZQjNmisR8/s400/4104.jpg" /></a><br />
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In other news, I just want to let you all know that this school semester, I am taking a full load of courses ~ something I haven't done in more than 10 years! <br />
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With that said, I am "that much closer" to applying to the program of my choice...but depending on which route I will take, will then dictate how many more classes that I need to take next spring, as I wait for my acceptance. <br />
<br />
Because if all goes as planned this semester, then I will be ready to apply to a program this January 2013....which just means more intense studying for another "X" amount of years!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtBzu1xKShxDifgjkcnyGO20JaIx8Oj8OvTmNMM42ZiDy1QNQNkW44BRFTlUIfKdQuJ1qRa9Jqyhi0KcD2d7a3wseKdee7hNGDJMtxlW7WdubUqkysTPjRGmCMgkjkJ6dOMeqtdN7xVk/s1600/4111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtBzu1xKShxDifgjkcnyGO20JaIx8Oj8OvTmNMM42ZiDy1QNQNkW44BRFTlUIfKdQuJ1qRa9Jqyhi0KcD2d7a3wseKdee7hNGDJMtxlW7WdubUqkysTPjRGmCMgkjkJ6dOMeqtdN7xVk/s400/4111.jpg" /></a><br />
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But I am getting a bit ahead of myself there...so for now I have to just concentrate on getting through this semester in one piece. <br />
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On some days when I feel like giving up {it's not always fun feeling like you're the oldest person in certain classes}, I have to keep telling myself that this is just a means to an end, and that I have to focus on the grand scheme of things {because feeling isolated & alone at times is certainly not uncommon!}.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgib6uOYFAlfLyY9XHy4vGO0GUOxpNWH-nsedi8JojjLRssPUFJHlwTkwPhWJfSW_M2H3k0ayhv8fv6SnZJZ7VEUoVGNwt7XoGjNq_dQ47u8IGXCgFJo2G72UF9E25qFd9YfCg6-YnxNfM/s1600/4108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgib6uOYFAlfLyY9XHy4vGO0GUOxpNWH-nsedi8JojjLRssPUFJHlwTkwPhWJfSW_M2H3k0ayhv8fv6SnZJZ7VEUoVGNwt7XoGjNq_dQ47u8IGXCgFJo2G72UF9E25qFd9YfCg6-YnxNfM/s400/4108.jpg" /></a><br />
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So looking at the brighter side of things, I am just thankful and feeling blessed for the opportunity! I am also thankful to my hubby and boys for being so supportive ~ they really are my biggest fans, rooting me on during this transition in my life.<br />
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And with that being said, even though I will be extremely busy for the next few months or so, I look forward to posting about all the "goings on" over here at A Cozy Cottage in the City!<br />
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Some posts may be short & sweet, or long & detailed ~ but regardless, I hope you can continue to join me on both my creative and academic journeys!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFI7lYESfwKa34YDjxJYUIkiOjbe-XwnuKrGKVxtNC5qH8Xrao68c4qao4NMAfXxEKAx0M3_lJ5iW_872l5C2nmPp6jE5HUUqNyaPb6aFS9jD5-KVyfDLIPke_3ekkhxxIefEC3oT8YiA/s1600/4124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFI7lYESfwKa34YDjxJYUIkiOjbe-XwnuKrGKVxtNC5qH8Xrao68c4qao4NMAfXxEKAx0M3_lJ5iW_872l5C2nmPp6jE5HUUqNyaPb6aFS9jD5-KVyfDLIPke_3ekkhxxIefEC3oT8YiA/s400/4124.jpg" /></a><br />
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You can also follow me on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Cozy-Cottage-in-the-City/140178979419304" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Facebook Fan Page</font></a> or on my <a href="https://twitter.com/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Twitter account</font></a> ~ where I will be sharing both my personal & creative accounts along the way!<br />
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So until next time, enjoy the rest of your 3 day holiday weekend!!!<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Cozy-Cottage-in-the-City/140178979419304" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Facebook</font></a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Twitter</font></a><br />
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Sharing with:<br />
<a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2012/09/white-wednesday-168.html">White Wednesday</a><br />
<a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2012/09/vintage-inspiration-2-year-anniversary.html">Vintage Inspiration Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/">Feathered Nest Friday</a><br />
</center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-74175209917568239982012-08-09T23:30:00.000-07:002012-08-10T01:26:03.340-07:00A French Flea Market Find<center><font size="4">Greetings my friends! How are you all today?<br />
I would first like to say "hello" to all my new followers! Thank you so much for taking the time to follow along on my little journey here in blogland! :)<br />
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Today I'd like to share with you one of my vintage finds from my visit to the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Little-French-Flea-Market/149649065076760" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Little French Flea Market</font></a> here in Southern Cali.<br />
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You can find my original post about it <a href="http://acozycottageinthecity.blogspot.com/2012/07/a-little-french-flea-market.html" target="_blank"><font color="purple">here</font></a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtc7Cr3nshEJ2QuUvPZ450qba3D04qwdaz4Asofi1huZzw7pO2mqknebQf9ikYDJIflkrb6RkXGvv1W7MEJ3KRiXUt5kLnUArHA_yIv0qrdiGUJZq6tySQstjzbPGHnftOFaYevxe3lY/s1600/4007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtc7Cr3nshEJ2QuUvPZ450qba3D04qwdaz4Asofi1huZzw7pO2mqknebQf9ikYDJIflkrb6RkXGvv1W7MEJ3KRiXUt5kLnUArHA_yIv0qrdiGUJZq6tySQstjzbPGHnftOFaYevxe3lY/s400/4007.jpg" /></a><br />
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That afternoon, I was lucky enough to come across an Antique French Enamel Cream Can. <br />
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And the amount that I paid for it was nearly highway robbery because it was for such a good price, since I found it at the end of the day amidst a pile of items!!!<br />
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When I found her, she looked like this...a bit crusty and dusty...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEK2vXIV-C53aCGErDvH0welTbj8BQButEQL9AChP_C6uMMhwBmRBkdzH8qEWxly5eICSNu-Se827BCvUWcZ-qkG7Kc0ijj__GU7g7cqqwYjBSf__TOuuiDmuKI4mBIYF4_PtbWT6AdiM/s1600/Collage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEK2vXIV-C53aCGErDvH0welTbj8BQButEQL9AChP_C6uMMhwBmRBkdzH8qEWxly5eICSNu-Se827BCvUWcZ-qkG7Kc0ijj__GU7g7cqqwYjBSf__TOuuiDmuKI4mBIYF4_PtbWT6AdiM/s400/Collage1.jpg" /></a><br />
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But after I gently cleaned her up with my trusty "Bon Ami" cleaner, she was all good to go! <br />
<br />
By the way, if you don't already use "Bon Ami," you have to pick one up at your local market! <br />
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It's a safe, green, and biodegradable way to clean various items at home and works in such a STELLAR way! I've even used it to clean my oven and it works quite well!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-f1rjwJ6QsG_wPC15G_g-rFzEj-GGANF-7QCd4ztnAKFMGlKUCLv39X1msyhF96XIKM89fsIIBFkIjc18VEpdc8xnKFjsLcKFRQWyMhb930bMW8MEf5c3u5fBr4l8X4Jk1xslCxfgOcM/s1600/3988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-f1rjwJ6QsG_wPC15G_g-rFzEj-GGANF-7QCd4ztnAKFMGlKUCLv39X1msyhF96XIKM89fsIIBFkIjc18VEpdc8xnKFjsLcKFRQWyMhb930bMW8MEf5c3u5fBr4l8X4Jk1xslCxfgOcM/s400/3988.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I always try to find hypoallergenic ways to clean because my children {and hubby} are very sensitive to various products on the market, so I'm alway on the lookout for really good cleaners!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5FLNypTq3geXLz_4eelHwbKgMxZ_KabHOFz4KYl_rat6drWIuKkGmzke3cN5posGrYiMynVXeQZBPpze6LsQHZfNp8x410Kx9DzP6JnYxafHj-FrmRhKvhJaTsmXsnLH5GxGOhlW4voA/s1600/3989b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="295" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5FLNypTq3geXLz_4eelHwbKgMxZ_KabHOFz4KYl_rat6drWIuKkGmzke3cN5posGrYiMynVXeQZBPpze6LsQHZfNp8x410Kx9DzP6JnYxafHj-FrmRhKvhJaTsmXsnLH5GxGOhlW4voA/s400/3989b.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
So after she was all cleaned up {yes, I am referring to my cream can as "she!" lol}... <br />
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I haphazardly placed some lavender and ivory stock blooms in the cream can.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6l7zdE9zxikExDh5OZ_2Y6noifgREr6B57QEisjqp1B_Vs4W1o-4jAfDGNe6JhAHgtve6JKH3hQYP4zkTrmIIxwcl4JSA63-7qTqdGMHutcGmaWCePycwsrxTa9YZz9xkxWOu1nT70j0/s1600/3971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6l7zdE9zxikExDh5OZ_2Y6noifgREr6B57QEisjqp1B_Vs4W1o-4jAfDGNe6JhAHgtve6JKH3hQYP4zkTrmIIxwcl4JSA63-7qTqdGMHutcGmaWCePycwsrxTa9YZz9xkxWOu1nT70j0/s400/3971.jpg" /></a><br />
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I just love the simple, yet sweet & spicy scent that the fragrance of stock brings into my home! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhCrPWaAiwrxY1BrYHT1C-ghegysFXJTwfwwHqxSX82EcX5ORkx20TJBtVV-UYc1DdgEvtJiPR-3ov77RNUZY7GTk4ncLMxfxpVYM6WPrENEB2j36DW5LLAt27LWLWNAQdQOx2T9ZLqc/s1600/3970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhCrPWaAiwrxY1BrYHT1C-ghegysFXJTwfwwHqxSX82EcX5ORkx20TJBtVV-UYc1DdgEvtJiPR-3ov77RNUZY7GTk4ncLMxfxpVYM6WPrENEB2j36DW5LLAt27LWLWNAQdQOx2T9ZLqc/s400/3970.jpg" /></a><br />
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And I also really like how the hole in the back of this can gives it such farmhouse character! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht5DF8Z3STCupeYI0dXf2YoG0wd6zbpVG8mDNog-bddfQIQZFByUiquWqbLkYypcJdE1ijRYqR540v4TucLV79aAL3Q2yzFk-9w0LlgbXwjA-nwyqfxAbYLnoCElnOQ_fNxGvEo2DUChw/s1600/3954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht5DF8Z3STCupeYI0dXf2YoG0wd6zbpVG8mDNog-bddfQIQZFByUiquWqbLkYypcJdE1ijRYqR540v4TucLV79aAL3Q2yzFk-9w0LlgbXwjA-nwyqfxAbYLnoCElnOQ_fNxGvEo2DUChw/s400/3954.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxdEwjpAv9sWwijmdQcYdYvr-_7DQ6bfzZRewCEa1GN_-PdkEgOr1MOOShXKp768-rlu0FgM5OfD2WPlhApbEozJcSBczBxPSwlynjq4EgyB0o2xsipN5o9PApcwOxM68vrKDlUKpIGs/s1600/3981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxdEwjpAv9sWwijmdQcYdYvr-_7DQ6bfzZRewCEa1GN_-PdkEgOr1MOOShXKp768-rlu0FgM5OfD2WPlhApbEozJcSBczBxPSwlynjq4EgyB0o2xsipN5o9PApcwOxM68vrKDlUKpIGs/s400/3981.jpg" /></a><br />
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So I then brought in one of my rustic porch planters, and set the can of blooms on top.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKN2Trpl2wcVjvAKochENZ4g7ExavzX89Ddv_oa9k5r8LnKK0V-yC1jJm3hvtgg6Avj5pS4rw_t4xpv_rUonphfEJN96Erv_XR5iITs_bbAYqHzyeoJEBYylkpaiZH-xrttHzm-5cxZc/s1600/4020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKN2Trpl2wcVjvAKochENZ4g7ExavzX89Ddv_oa9k5r8LnKK0V-yC1jJm3hvtgg6Avj5pS4rw_t4xpv_rUonphfEJN96Erv_XR5iITs_bbAYqHzyeoJEBYylkpaiZH-xrttHzm-5cxZc/s400/4020.jpg" /></a><br />
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It's such a simple way to bring a little of the outdoors in. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSouyOu3GpmxE5o7paKf_XqP9_7qGo2aKGVDb_pH1ZQEHk3hcksRz0-0ZMZo2GY0hgOvzKv0hZwy7Iqw6Y3-55OEhjdQjcQ7RdcGjM-4R3Fh3T4ZhSFilhDrcuxUgCZks0qASOFP5cAQ/s1600/3994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSouyOu3GpmxE5o7paKf_XqP9_7qGo2aKGVDb_pH1ZQEHk3hcksRz0-0ZMZo2GY0hgOvzKv0hZwy7Iqw6Y3-55OEhjdQjcQ7RdcGjM-4R3Fh3T4ZhSFilhDrcuxUgCZks0qASOFP5cAQ/s400/3994.jpg" /></a><br />
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Truth be told, I did take a bunch of pictures because the fleurs made me so happy... <br />
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So I hope you enjoy the rest of the images. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftavsfFxUkd7aIE_GN0GW7u2WNezxOv3p063UoQlWU1mIujChp9WC4DF-rm9btmSrlYNYO1N4Js-GsQa-RzdXrQueow0GGukYzZDUDpFsRoESwrrmpCTep-cKMyTgHfL42ZlMCc4VNE0/s1600/3960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftavsfFxUkd7aIE_GN0GW7u2WNezxOv3p063UoQlWU1mIujChp9WC4DF-rm9btmSrlYNYO1N4Js-GsQa-RzdXrQueow0GGukYzZDUDpFsRoESwrrmpCTep-cKMyTgHfL42ZlMCc4VNE0/s400/3960.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQR902BvZ_30fcS22ZpSASjN8285saaTiV4xZ1h-iHWh5tha_pvZpi9UJb1wjhI65pAPV86uvkwjX5xxydO2oYHEpb1gFU7Qriy7XDVfUjdw4E5MryBBgRscDM9cWD-tRvkFbmdeMBjvo/s1600/3980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQR902BvZ_30fcS22ZpSASjN8285saaTiV4xZ1h-iHWh5tha_pvZpi9UJb1wjhI65pAPV86uvkwjX5xxydO2oYHEpb1gFU7Qriy7XDVfUjdw4E5MryBBgRscDM9cWD-tRvkFbmdeMBjvo/s400/3980.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Z7RzNuSVcIqaZtmKRtFbOhTB2MJDfbh5aGxxPMpjefZhHtUTiKooVfxXTLGaJDDzjHVlhtu0OO9-BagOyoGmUaM9m6vWQdHHyUijuvO55p8ubsfKs6tMl3t8H7sdTsTD_-KHXJYPxqg/s1600/4004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Z7RzNuSVcIqaZtmKRtFbOhTB2MJDfbh5aGxxPMpjefZhHtUTiKooVfxXTLGaJDDzjHVlhtu0OO9-BagOyoGmUaM9m6vWQdHHyUijuvO55p8ubsfKs6tMl3t8H7sdTsTD_-KHXJYPxqg/s400/4004.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzwUpnr_KKMUefMiuDhQDOWpmwcZlCcmnAENcfQNmZ1cT47lRjzV14q7cBF9Ngi7l7NfWEqgPy9-Y3XfW7hYtskEfi40Lb28aAfbUICNpTxJBhyphenhyphenaSLgxvxPHM96ZKVRCDv6j_Bnn4KrE/s1600/4019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzwUpnr_KKMUefMiuDhQDOWpmwcZlCcmnAENcfQNmZ1cT47lRjzV14q7cBF9Ngi7l7NfWEqgPy9-Y3XfW7hYtskEfi40Lb28aAfbUICNpTxJBhyphenhyphenaSLgxvxPHM96ZKVRCDv6j_Bnn4KrE/s400/4019.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKf-5c4QtUz0QvLhyphenhyphenoRGOMX_r8eAtGwdBCiqdGJZ02fV0zLbAovHWavHtADA6n4UOgLEkg71rBe6X2q0QVl3EerQu4lcgt-wXQOylwiNgEFjO7ErKWVAmJfST9tTyUVHWtzDwSv8wj6XA/s1600/3985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKf-5c4QtUz0QvLhyphenhyphenoRGOMX_r8eAtGwdBCiqdGJZ02fV0zLbAovHWavHtADA6n4UOgLEkg71rBe6X2q0QVl3EerQu4lcgt-wXQOylwiNgEFjO7ErKWVAmJfST9tTyUVHWtzDwSv8wj6XA/s400/3985.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoNNhJlstvwB5vnhWQrZryy8qjfiz22wAOhDh2aisIOSzJCsT7dYcwC_bDwasWkyZfcZHpTQkz0AHwzlh0vQQvFwKlwyZNCY3QBg1eADoOnQPF7uR2KC8kZZK_arxeXoXFYNAWQgOiKw/s1600/3965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoNNhJlstvwB5vnhWQrZryy8qjfiz22wAOhDh2aisIOSzJCsT7dYcwC_bDwasWkyZfcZHpTQkz0AHwzlh0vQQvFwKlwyZNCY3QBg1eADoOnQPF7uR2KC8kZZK_arxeXoXFYNAWQgOiKw/s400/3965.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhEQvIja1e_jSzSoklTaHCrfRZWr2gvCa6DAmtp07ACumjf3n_gbGoI1M-nOTVtj_DL7IfMwLYT-eEiZY199QiAinq-K77H0YVL-u1ju6F3lrmqF1oeTFDXku-pat-D1E6XhWCWQocbI/s1600/4014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhEQvIja1e_jSzSoklTaHCrfRZWr2gvCa6DAmtp07ACumjf3n_gbGoI1M-nOTVtj_DL7IfMwLYT-eEiZY199QiAinq-K77H0YVL-u1ju6F3lrmqF1oeTFDXku-pat-D1E6XhWCWQocbI/s400/4014.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mSUJbOmo0PUm5vXocUf09uka_cf4krOf6Jesf9iKBjcG0hfXehm8EORABVGay8AoI8Knw5OP47Tbn6BVIFuuTQ0selvdk67MBhHAqoDbJ8aKyyp2RBC_pc0UaGxs3pdQ8iH8rhnKuMg/s1600/3983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="363" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mSUJbOmo0PUm5vXocUf09uka_cf4krOf6Jesf9iKBjcG0hfXehm8EORABVGay8AoI8Knw5OP47Tbn6BVIFuuTQ0selvdk67MBhHAqoDbJ8aKyyp2RBC_pc0UaGxs3pdQ8iH8rhnKuMg/s400/3983.jpg" /></a><br />
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Well my friends, I hope you enjoyed my French Flea Market find. :) Until next time, have a wonderful rest of the week!<br />
<br />
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XOXO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Cozy-Cottage-in-the-City/140178979419304" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Facebook</font></a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Twitter</font></a><br />
<br />
</font></center><br />
<center>Sharing with:<br />
<a href="http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Vintage Inspiration Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Feathered Nest Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://thecharmofhome.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Home Sweet Home</a></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-78145872357282900572012-08-06T13:45:00.007-07:002012-08-14T09:15:33.178-07:00Vintage Treasures<center><font size="4">Happy Monday everyone! <br />
I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. :) This past Saturday two lovely "treasures" arrived in the mail for me! :)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YvjTh8qLfiiAGw7_LcmGfC0Y99zeZk28-L04XVexKaWkehYdpN_jgSTIw372bDEpjrMW3hEKtVUqoP6ItRTRkY-TSeto9d8dXC2e5LQeJEICyk2iybbntV9ZtTmRvQ4WplvuHN5gWSl1/s1600/3900vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YvjTh8qLfiiAGw7_LcmGfC0Y99zeZk28-L04XVexKaWkehYdpN_jgSTIw372bDEpjrMW3hEKtVUqoP6ItRTRkY-TSeto9d8dXC2e5LQeJEICyk2iybbntV9ZtTmRvQ4WplvuHN5gWSl1/s400/3900vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
If you recall, <a href="http://shabbyfrenchforme.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><font color=
"purple">Rachel @Shabby French For Me</font></a> was having a <a href="http://shabbyfrenchforme.blogspot.com/2012/06/vintage-by-nina-giveaway-winners.html" target="_blank"><font color=
"purple">Vintage By Nina giveaway</font></a> and announced the 2 winners on June 21st ~ and I was one of the lucky winners {yippee!}! :) <br />
<br />
Well this past Saturday, I finally received my book in the mail from her {woohoo - thank you so much Rachel!}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKKQQGOR2ughuSKYKdkY2K98W14UbSOAUHbUaaVvZLselK58fiVUzwrZozuDfyzJxJGZXXu1JjywnGYU09H1-KrxVQhlgNe-vRtufpBx6ccjmI5xz8uQPw0I8c0xEAf2IvPJjyAOOQzwQ/s1600/3915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKKQQGOR2ughuSKYKdkY2K98W14UbSOAUHbUaaVvZLselK58fiVUzwrZozuDfyzJxJGZXXu1JjywnGYU09H1-KrxVQhlgNe-vRtufpBx6ccjmI5xz8uQPw0I8c0xEAf2IvPJjyAOOQzwQ/s400/3915.jpg" /></a><br />
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Then another little treasure arrived in the mail that day as well ~ it was the August issue of Jeanne d'Arc Living Magazine that I ordered from <a href="http://frenchlarkspur.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><font color=
"purple">Tracey @French Larkspur</font></a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ed-NMQPzyuy_enp4i3Sy92NPelmUW1SuepvfHcoloavOgOpWOuncuBid69n0SxvxjTZ9JSoiu_fgON2OkgyYS6kb5t99MKQUnsxR5FohyKR8xGmqmYAZJ8CAigtKeMfKSYxJ-ZHB3YbW/s1600/3882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ed-NMQPzyuy_enp4i3Sy92NPelmUW1SuepvfHcoloavOgOpWOuncuBid69n0SxvxjTZ9JSoiu_fgON2OkgyYS6kb5t99MKQUnsxR5FohyKR8xGmqmYAZJ8CAigtKeMfKSYxJ-ZHB3YbW/s400/3882.jpg" /></a><br />
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So needless to say I was a very Happy Camper! :)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7aLBRNUMN4pz1_fkGO3284UQqyMj1szXMlHx1IevBQUp7urEzhi-ggE9Kj3ZCuqTCGqiodRqbLsVmOrAekJU56clsS1XSKVd0jXaCa9d1IEZJVa737qNJajWlvYBpUvBlb83JNKr-g16Q/s1600/3883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="301" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7aLBRNUMN4pz1_fkGO3284UQqyMj1szXMlHx1IevBQUp7urEzhi-ggE9Kj3ZCuqTCGqiodRqbLsVmOrAekJU56clsS1XSKVd0jXaCa9d1IEZJVa737qNJajWlvYBpUvBlb83JNKr-g16Q/s400/3883.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I always love the way Tracey packages her items! She is my favorite "go to gal" when ordering my JDL Mag! :) She is always so prompt & friendly whenever I order items from <a href="http://www.frenchlarkspur.com/" target="_blank"><font color=
"purple">her site</font></a> - I just LOVE her!<br />
<br />
As I was thumbing through all the pages, I couldn't help but get excited at all the gorgeous inspirations that I just had to share a few images from the book and mag with you all! ;)<br />
<br />
Let's start with the new book "Vintage By Nina" by Nina Hartmann:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-v5XC9k3ZfeZ05aGGAmTuIsNq-3wjRak2JL8lcXbTVl-GDylpyoCaqZE67xYyc7bIkDZOzFpkPDVEQjrvQkL4iCtvmsNFZHtH1a9jASDEbxbnprOYzLI40CMQ0mALuUwqlxjRz2aIS9rw/s1600/3899vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-v5XC9k3ZfeZ05aGGAmTuIsNq-3wjRak2JL8lcXbTVl-GDylpyoCaqZE67xYyc7bIkDZOzFpkPDVEQjrvQkL4iCtvmsNFZHtH1a9jASDEbxbnprOYzLI40CMQ0mALuUwqlxjRz2aIS9rw/s400/3899vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
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This is one of my favorite pics in the book ~ I have those same exact stools in my kitchen Breakfast Bar area, except they are a lighter shade of grey. <br />
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I love mixing rustic with elegance, and that chandelier in this industrial mix really ties it in!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrT34I0x4NHxx3H0gCs8yqtDv7C_P_VBW-fU8EiIrIOuHErF7NESAuSBZyJf65dZrlJGpUTPohDuWAN3ijFMvDUOGobY052z2OUVgbc4IQ4cL3zKxwove1d1N7014czEAuh62_tAaMTzJ0/s1600/3913vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrT34I0x4NHxx3H0gCs8yqtDv7C_P_VBW-fU8EiIrIOuHErF7NESAuSBZyJf65dZrlJGpUTPohDuWAN3ijFMvDUOGobY052z2OUVgbc4IQ4cL3zKxwove1d1N7014czEAuh62_tAaMTzJ0/s400/3913vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
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Oh and this Tolix chair in that lovely lavender shade with all that patina {LOVE}! <br />
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I have a thing for Tolix {and tolix-inspired} chairs, as you'll one day see whenever I get my dining room ready to reveal to you all! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGs_e8enJPLt5jrYLWkp2mJJooZH-yHjegHZEmfH4AWQQemJpQBEC8O9nBPCpT4lgdO_1Ib-oYd0Mv8kzr8YuZ7O4_tvHHPutxJjEpcPbKOiu24vrwWY3ctWptt9VlJx13pMk0LXVFrUrJ/s1600/3908vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGs_e8enJPLt5jrYLWkp2mJJooZH-yHjegHZEmfH4AWQQemJpQBEC8O9nBPCpT4lgdO_1Ib-oYd0Mv8kzr8YuZ7O4_tvHHPutxJjEpcPbKOiu24vrwWY3ctWptt9VlJx13pMk0LXVFrUrJ/s400/3908vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrgMuoo6HiFPhzzt2OKiSdLbCGaHnQxaCTX4pmm1khP5KOI8-rOqasPM7Vav5JR8LYpGvyStBckdo6k6wP-yRVaQ4pTeaipsbMqGH-UeVypFEiv-ji-Zj7rW4Q7TVe2dZ_OQ4YKPkC7DY/s1600/3914vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrgMuoo6HiFPhzzt2OKiSdLbCGaHnQxaCTX4pmm1khP5KOI8-rOqasPM7Vav5JR8LYpGvyStBckdo6k6wP-yRVaQ4pTeaipsbMqGH-UeVypFEiv-ji-Zj7rW4Q7TVe2dZ_OQ4YKPkC7DY/s400/3914vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
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ahh...Mirrors. One can never get enough of antique mirrors, at least not me! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpl2melZVeKckX7msChsP0m_gS2VsUnoBl9AcanmtJPjqI66lCIAAhQJwa1VGIdqvCptMblVoMesMV4SkKJs8wt9FLWRfXLJpBQHlW4s6oX6u-aRITqHshgm2ev5TvDAuJhOImV8jZWYxU/s1600/3910vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpl2melZVeKckX7msChsP0m_gS2VsUnoBl9AcanmtJPjqI66lCIAAhQJwa1VGIdqvCptMblVoMesMV4SkKJs8wt9FLWRfXLJpBQHlW4s6oX6u-aRITqHshgm2ev5TvDAuJhOImV8jZWYxU/s400/3910vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZU2Jo1idRwMu5ywoVYwAIQD6d5qOTYO28QjYvIvVD-vEHFm3AKSwIQ9IwPqfr8o67XTQKbRDMe4X34e9xPGzUWosL6Bd0CPfpCVodk-gCk37HoUkYr5taYDIvdQZaXEAkbQAqoIXfoeW/s1600/3912vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZU2Jo1idRwMu5ywoVYwAIQD6d5qOTYO28QjYvIvVD-vEHFm3AKSwIQ9IwPqfr8o67XTQKbRDMe4X34e9xPGzUWosL6Bd0CPfpCVodk-gCk37HoUkYr5taYDIvdQZaXEAkbQAqoIXfoeW/s400/3912vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
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Old ballerina shoes & tutus...<br />
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There is something about them that catches my attention...perhaps the story they tell about who once wore & loved them is what interests me the most.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3n2YUpTokyMxE1eavSSoCB4Wly5Cw4vIvtTi0LkHXgMYCwzMN_7kMs1j1xNleW54HiHVJtxFIPYZPM1nt-b1f9jCQYCOv_pIkgUuCb4VPYjimZfIDvWfPGq-MO7_n2_JwYhbot_dw61x3/s1600/3911vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3n2YUpTokyMxE1eavSSoCB4Wly5Cw4vIvtTi0LkHXgMYCwzMN_7kMs1j1xNleW54HiHVJtxFIPYZPM1nt-b1f9jCQYCOv_pIkgUuCb4VPYjimZfIDvWfPGq-MO7_n2_JwYhbot_dw61x3/s400/3911vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdBeTP5duQkv0qFK0gTylEAXfgPXlFVH2gxPPYAWR7vGkG3r7dQCvXs3jtrOKt0WWCyiZ0pV4S_h7_P1DuhUV1Wfv3k3csS5XSU7_xPQj8JC2OZ6gOkMw6mLaD3VxjuKAx9FKCuRJf1Gs/s1600/3904vbn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdBeTP5duQkv0qFK0gTylEAXfgPXlFVH2gxPPYAWR7vGkG3r7dQCvXs3jtrOKt0WWCyiZ0pV4S_h7_P1DuhUV1Wfv3k3csS5XSU7_xPQj8JC2OZ6gOkMw6mLaD3VxjuKAx9FKCuRJf1Gs/s400/3904vbn.jpg" /></a><br />
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And the most pleasant surprise upon receiving this book, was that Miss Nina Hartmann herself signed it!<br />
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The book truly is a joy and inspiration for sure!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGCr0kHuP4tgQVycux30jkJN42Jd0arqRRYNAJ4FULPrSE3oI7EkQoCvgyKL7tmyiCpUERnsgkLu71V5kNlJKgOyun_nvgzAFmvEvhoXB5gPCl-tOOinWOabG_I1H5pMLp7HhZZ0HFS81/s1600/3907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="308" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGCr0kHuP4tgQVycux30jkJN42Jd0arqRRYNAJ4FULPrSE3oI7EkQoCvgyKL7tmyiCpUERnsgkLu71V5kNlJKgOyun_nvgzAFmvEvhoXB5gPCl-tOOinWOabG_I1H5pMLp7HhZZ0HFS81/s400/3907.jpg" /></a><br />
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Next up is the August issue of Jeanne d'Arc Living Magazine!<br />
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Such a pretty issue filled with lovely eye candy! I don't know how many times I've seen Maria's house from <a href="http://dreamywhites.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><font color=
"purple">Dreamy Whites</font></a>, but no matter what - I can never tire of her images! Here are a few from the latest issue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLL05-3aY3qCf6Aqw0kqRDVs_3fivQKFy-lltqt0wghXDXKHVgqvftfaAA33r1g4giKC6L0r9SbiXzf7OztpEsoz2ezG87UavCB5xt6c6tEXkOFGVitAMDc1MNPWCtaMml2HkTJW56EMI/s1600/3918jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLL05-3aY3qCf6Aqw0kqRDVs_3fivQKFy-lltqt0wghXDXKHVgqvftfaAA33r1g4giKC6L0r9SbiXzf7OztpEsoz2ezG87UavCB5xt6c6tEXkOFGVitAMDc1MNPWCtaMml2HkTJW56EMI/s400/3918jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://dreamywhites.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><font color=
"purple">Maria's</font></a> photography and styling is always impeccable! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDljshcMIiaFDGvXTwXVE07oFMZT2MD75TYvdn6qlvnYwwb3fEXkG5De4FHN-K9q6XbHsqh7dKJXFu7tJUebwSPXAxgkRdr7EN2GvK7L_MzZnKKvONJP_tz_AY9l4wcGgE23b7-EnsusJU/s1600/3919jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDljshcMIiaFDGvXTwXVE07oFMZT2MD75TYvdn6qlvnYwwb3fEXkG5De4FHN-K9q6XbHsqh7dKJXFu7tJUebwSPXAxgkRdr7EN2GvK7L_MzZnKKvONJP_tz_AY9l4wcGgE23b7-EnsusJU/s400/3919jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMKT91Rwx3hmTa2DwNdJqPQwIfkKRAPJJtUR2L0xf44gFAn7QB8GxEIVCX1Tver_NQY431xC89OJDK5Vr5FuTjftrgxzyLZ94chyGUGdfvtCBp5noSKPk-7aKPalnSwtQ9gh19z2_HVff/s1600/3920jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMKT91Rwx3hmTa2DwNdJqPQwIfkKRAPJJtUR2L0xf44gFAn7QB8GxEIVCX1Tver_NQY431xC89OJDK5Vr5FuTjftrgxzyLZ94chyGUGdfvtCBp5noSKPk-7aKPalnSwtQ9gh19z2_HVff/s400/3920jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0N2lQ3Ij-i7hbWQwbcisrUuFArgjlMwTL4SCh_RpdD45FaHgpjoFpv4mmnueRoT94uH18ehaK_70jZDfKerJQZPO1D8FaK5gwn6-WcYa436PI0FKCnA4HhodIUVwkBNiVXuBzsdzUnIIY/s1600/3921jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0N2lQ3Ij-i7hbWQwbcisrUuFArgjlMwTL4SCh_RpdD45FaHgpjoFpv4mmnueRoT94uH18ehaK_70jZDfKerJQZPO1D8FaK5gwn6-WcYa436PI0FKCnA4HhodIUVwkBNiVXuBzsdzUnIIY/s400/3921jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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And her aqua cupboard filled with gorgeous linens made an appearance in the latest JDL publication...all so completely lovely!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixl8Z5oPerALKYMX28gQAuE41NFRiflddSEcISGpTmRNgnZ2zcxOtT_1A2IzD5vlj-EwejInK4PiZNJQFPXTEDF15lus7NrDwEA5ikX-7BhjnRz_fAQ9zs7vKzvk-mF6ouyT41IbFXFYoz/s1600/3928jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="296" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixl8Z5oPerALKYMX28gQAuE41NFRiflddSEcISGpTmRNgnZ2zcxOtT_1A2IzD5vlj-EwejInK4PiZNJQFPXTEDF15lus7NrDwEA5ikX-7BhjnRz_fAQ9zs7vKzvk-mF6ouyT41IbFXFYoz/s400/3928jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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What I really love about the JDL Magazines, is that they have so much inspiration for everything.<br />
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From food & recipes, like in these Raspberry Desserts above...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUib2l4EgxuXyAyQAMp_YzTxCKB_lKpq999w-pa-r38L7u6HpxLSpJ6_rcWvSom79DLCmzqoBwcsoriGYfkhIWSm9K73I7NQ2omWw3uSpIEiYtykunSQYvDNO1hIYraw_bcRaSUMeIF4M/s1600/3929jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUib2l4EgxuXyAyQAMp_YzTxCKB_lKpq999w-pa-r38L7u6HpxLSpJ6_rcWvSom79DLCmzqoBwcsoriGYfkhIWSm9K73I7NQ2omWw3uSpIEiYtykunSQYvDNO1hIYraw_bcRaSUMeIF4M/s400/3929jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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...to entertaining ideas...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkVAqccr8QhnrbIoefelMj04el2w0kzQqx7r0ETVHQFevZw-cUwZdni6cKxjica_8EVDr4qcCb-dJ7ZXCa0PuRMZEXwO02H0H6Zx6kH5rVJvMI_615qxDTO4F6FRLuhHNVv4vjaJXY6Dk/s1600/3922jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkVAqccr8QhnrbIoefelMj04el2w0kzQqx7r0ETVHQFevZw-cUwZdni6cKxjica_8EVDr4qcCb-dJ7ZXCa0PuRMZEXwO02H0H6Zx6kH5rVJvMI_615qxDTO4F6FRLuhHNVv4vjaJXY6Dk/s400/3922jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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...to outdoor decor. <br />
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The image above made me want to take out my "French Pitcher Stash" and lay them outside with blooms! lol<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYH0uFkdf08xK34wsEewPPQbm17YsBvgUFqF5Jc85sfJrLVptUTjRLmxLJqd3a7NbZMN_HxJWdWSyuVRBQzztUk8iRn7tsPCA49__Xl_sZhBJKeTMLnltz6T4p1tb8shw9PVHYMRyRjJ8/s1600/3926jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYH0uFkdf08xK34wsEewPPQbm17YsBvgUFqF5Jc85sfJrLVptUTjRLmxLJqd3a7NbZMN_HxJWdWSyuVRBQzztUk8iRn7tsPCA49__Xl_sZhBJKeTMLnltz6T4p1tb8shw9PVHYMRyRjJ8/s400/3926jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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Some outdoor autumn decorating images made a debut in this issue {did I already tell you how much "Fall" is my favorite season ~ not too hot and not too cold!}. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLkyHn4ejdROiO1vz1CXuYMotvUEvyhnJKocLoZ84SGCy_SwU3uiHmLsnOgAAtM2oIShiQvjJJp4MvNA_ds1zcsXuFGTOU4fn2Npr_ohOGpQfCQrkhe1i1EbX-D_ZTbz9OlTNQ9h-yxY/s1600/3927jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLkyHn4ejdROiO1vz1CXuYMotvUEvyhnJKocLoZ84SGCy_SwU3uiHmLsnOgAAtM2oIShiQvjJJp4MvNA_ds1zcsXuFGTOU4fn2Npr_ohOGpQfCQrkhe1i1EbX-D_ZTbz9OlTNQ9h-yxY/s400/3927jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqB2znA9YW6-gz-y5K2Z4x2ydevhDHONvU6W8f0G7KMDaheX1KBGHJnUgZsfMJK63tdQYNS4ygnntGOSv68-fr1OEBqIe2_UW2oisFqmERgGiPugD06vBxVPneVPojq4W1paCP9_tzYM/s1600/3924jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqB2znA9YW6-gz-y5K2Z4x2ydevhDHONvU6W8f0G7KMDaheX1KBGHJnUgZsfMJK63tdQYNS4ygnntGOSv68-fr1OEBqIe2_UW2oisFqmERgGiPugD06vBxVPneVPojq4W1paCP9_tzYM/s400/3924jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
.ironstone & an old door.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHCOwDjP41OtpC3ekIGlivu_qnp8JT2emPMNH_sDujWxZDCzf9OxZX4P2gcD3-QKIgceKfdchPuAU7EMvSNvpZ2Mzl5-eDG5BZE7s0T6I9yY6ERQBx7CxXkVIKawMUd7Y_cebnpRJqw4/s1600/3930jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHCOwDjP41OtpC3ekIGlivu_qnp8JT2emPMNH_sDujWxZDCzf9OxZX4P2gcD3-QKIgceKfdchPuAU7EMvSNvpZ2Mzl5-eDG5BZE7s0T6I9yY6ERQBx7CxXkVIKawMUd7Y_cebnpRJqw4/s400/3930jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
.monogrammed linens & silver.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-28Xv6FiSDvcgwmCjXEKlTPYd056H2tp6Sni4ehWK29KIzJTd7oBz5-P2Y1zHIOWnDS6tk-aCg3IHahuArdCU2mOM851YeY7b_VxdgmMKdkrmcrMEbuadXVM-_jzotYCddpKt5MyFcc/s1600/3925jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-28Xv6FiSDvcgwmCjXEKlTPYd056H2tp6Sni4ehWK29KIzJTd7oBz5-P2Y1zHIOWnDS6tk-aCg3IHahuArdCU2mOM851YeY7b_VxdgmMKdkrmcrMEbuadXVM-_jzotYCddpKt5MyFcc/s400/3925jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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Well my dear friends, that just about concludes all the eye candy & inspiration from these lovely publications. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YTpuQyzCR6lWmyt4z4SdRlFzZRDBHllX4Aq95r2ZpKNvK1mC2VlOIYWp_yUC9yqzb0U0_wPwVXjJ3YohwoRornKFfBRv9L6e3Grw7n1DTEo3BXFk7UoCK4bDzdQrjmZiVj9aqaO11vY/s1600/3900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YTpuQyzCR6lWmyt4z4SdRlFzZRDBHllX4Aq95r2ZpKNvK1mC2VlOIYWp_yUC9yqzb0U0_wPwVXjJ3YohwoRornKFfBRv9L6e3Grw7n1DTEo3BXFk7UoCK4bDzdQrjmZiVj9aqaO11vY/s400/3900.jpg" /></a><br />
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If you want more info on how you can get your hands on the book, "Vintage By Nina" by Nina Hartmann, please visit <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AtelierdeCampagneLLC" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Atelier De Campagne's Facebook Page</font></a> for more info!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi17uO_vubKB7YSu271prgzJnDCs1PmXDS3b8y1yH1daxhpABQucj8YhgwRGjCs6rrh_mluui1_dz0lozLz7xrt_KM1t-c4Iv0SsE27ncqzKg1x4-f2m3-evXI4nSCEnkFfPs0i2eM-eYc/s1600/3917jdl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi17uO_vubKB7YSu271prgzJnDCs1PmXDS3b8y1yH1daxhpABQucj8YhgwRGjCs6rrh_mluui1_dz0lozLz7xrt_KM1t-c4Iv0SsE27ncqzKg1x4-f2m3-evXI4nSCEnkFfPs0i2eM-eYc/s400/3917jdl.jpg" /></a><br />
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To order the August issue of JDL, you can visit <a href="http://www.frenchlarkspur.com/category_6/Beautiful-Living.htm" target="_blank"><font color=
"purple">Tracey @French Larkspur</font></a>. Grab one now before they sell out...they always do! :)<br />
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Until next time, enjoy your new week! And thank you once again to everyone who offered their input on my <a href="http://acozycottageinthecity.blogspot.com/2012/08/happy-augustturning-36-soonneed-your.html" target="_blank"><font color=
"purple">last post</font></a>. Your sweet comments and suggestions were greatly appreciated! :)<br />
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XOXO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Cozy-Cottage-in-the-City/140178979419304" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Facebook</font></a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><font color="purple">Twitter</font></a><br />
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Sharing with:</center><center><a href="http://thededicatedhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Making it Pretty Monday</a><br />
<a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Pink Saturday</a><br />
<a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com" target="_blank">Inspiration Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/dividers%20buttons%20etc/Faded-Charm-150.png" border="0" /></a><br />
<a href=http://thebrambleberrycottage.blogspot.com/><img border="0" src="http://i973.photobucket.com/albums/ae217/brambleberrycottage/800px-The_clock_tower_of_St_Mori-1.jpg" /></a></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-30717711509539705982012-08-01T12:30:00.000-07:002012-08-01T13:35:08.726-07:00Happy August...turning 36 {soon}...need your opinions {please} & a brief update. ;)<center><font size="4">Happy August everyone! <br />
In just a few short weeks, I am turning 36 and let me tell you, I have been feeling rather "blah" <strike>lately</strike> for the last 12 months or so! <br />
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Perhaps it's the chaotic year that I've had trying to juggle so many changes + working on ongoing projects on our home...it can sometimes be quite overwhelming! <br />
But whatever it is, I have been feeling really exhausted, depleted, and kind of "ordinary!" :(<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlVH7RjF4bdMvV6lHPiy30NQt2cak_RS72sKnPoCS9eohvH1-KsNrSfMMy76gYKWw__a1ELhRd0Opqo3NwmPnSW9ZVKkb83erhftH8Z18O2OTx57Ubm3yP4OufoaCmzZzOQtI3tGYeeAS/s1600/GreyDesk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlVH7RjF4bdMvV6lHPiy30NQt2cak_RS72sKnPoCS9eohvH1-KsNrSfMMy76gYKWw__a1ELhRd0Opqo3NwmPnSW9ZVKkb83erhftH8Z18O2OTx57Ubm3yP4OufoaCmzZzOQtI3tGYeeAS/s400/GreyDesk.jpg" /></a><br />
{<a href="http://www.housetohome.co.uk/" target="_blank">via</a>}<br />
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With that said, I feel like "some changes" need to be made, even if it's just something small...like let's say, <b><font color="black">chopping off inches {off} of my hair</font></b>! <br />
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Yes, I really do feel like doing that.<br />
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Here is a picture of my cute sister (in the hat), and me {with no make-up, looking a little tired...but still happy nonetheless} with the longer hair taken a few weeks ago.<br />
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Yay for pools on a hot summer day, by the way. ;)<br />
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<img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/34xopjp.jpg" height="310" width="400"><br />
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I have been wanting to cut my hair again because it's too long & frizzy {yes, I have curly hair "syndrome" that acts up in ALL weather}, so I literally live off of pulled back ponytails 24/7! <br />
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And then here is a picture of me taken before my hair grew out, and when I still had more panache in life {that means sans school, sans fixer upper chaos, & when I was about 15 lbs thinner...yep, stress will do that to ya!}! lol<br />
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Do you think I should cut it again? Or leave it long {as is}? I'm on the fence on this one... <br />
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<img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/vfxf86.jpg" height="400" width="267"><br />
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What about the bangs? Yay or nay?<br />
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On another note, I just want to show you one of my "Master Bedroom" inspiration photos {1st pic above & the one below}. I hope by this fall, I can have a more tranquil bedroom like this one {I've even already found the perfect paint color}.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUH-W-1Y8vBBxPyZg0ALXkR1rRIx-Av0tOyAWIMEvWFP7TAJ7p9JOAI-AeTRguJmSzL0GchDQTZTQfctYyRLbp7pBzSy67e7R0gpnhAj60Wwg-GxTkmxUW3iHUPWw0lUaBoPJG9FuH8jH/s1600/FrenchBedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1"
style=""><img border="0" height="281" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUH-W-1Y8vBBxPyZg0ALXkR1rRIx-Av0tOyAWIMEvWFP7TAJ7p9JOAI-AeTRguJmSzL0GchDQTZTQfctYyRLbp7pBzSy67e7R0gpnhAj60Wwg-GxTkmxUW3iHUPWw0lUaBoPJG9FuH8jH/s400/FrenchBedroom.jpg" /></a><br />
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For now, I am working on painting & restoring my antique French Provincial Vanity with Paris Grey & Old White Chalk Paint {one of my MANY ongoing multi-tasking projects}.<br />
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{because currently other projects consist of <u><font color="black">more "painting" & "building"</font></u> over here at A Cozy Cottage in the City!} ;)<br />
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I've posted some updates on what my vanity looks like so far via my <a href="https://twitter.com/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><font color="teal">Twitter</font></a> & <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Cozy-Cottage-in-the-City/140178979419304" target="_blank"><font color="teal">Facebook</font></a> accounts. But here is a sneak peek so far:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMAMUUb6w8UO6Dq4wLsgXnaVsNMf6B9RpzdL8MvdU7Xu40EznDNZ9q2wI53j6e-2BghL9W8CDLftQhjesMkuktZtkvYit3VYiqJYlfUdMdNQHb7-Oj8dLfXpGCd_esFS3QEGZjh_KPhts/s1600/Vanity+Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMAMUUb6w8UO6Dq4wLsgXnaVsNMf6B9RpzdL8MvdU7Xu40EznDNZ9q2wI53j6e-2BghL9W8CDLftQhjesMkuktZtkvYit3VYiqJYlfUdMdNQHb7-Oj8dLfXpGCd_esFS3QEGZjh_KPhts/s400/Vanity+Collage2.jpg" /></a><br />
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The vanity still needs some tweaking + waxing {clear & dark + overall buffing}, so stay tuned for that. Or you can get updated on this project and the rest of my other/future ongoing projects on either my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Cozy-Cottage-in-the-City/140178979419304" target="_blank"><font color="teal">Facebook</font></a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><font color="teal">Twitter</font></a> accounts. <br />
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Anyway, thank you all for continuing to stop by my little ole blog, it is always greatly appreciated! Until next time, have a lovely rest of the week everyone!<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
</font></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-64595508114137481442012-07-30T23:30:00.001-07:002012-08-01T18:53:39.342-07:00Vintage Textiles<center><font size="4">Hello my friends! <br />
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Early last spring I had the pleasure of coming across these vintage inspired textiles at a local Ikea, and now these comfy pillow cases (and inserts), and various other linens grace my living room sofa & home! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnthny4tZRJTUIdTukdumJw0WRerFpBWUv7q2L99fxx3HANS9_hraHPI98dd2WWoUutmtMJ4gnJSw-ELxztIVWhk7uUzzzPjUno54768QajSZ4Cgj6xmz7s4DAS2cgiGlODnRE-fFWE2SD/s1600/IkeaEmmiePillows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnthny4tZRJTUIdTukdumJw0WRerFpBWUv7q2L99fxx3HANS9_hraHPI98dd2WWoUutmtMJ4gnJSw-ELxztIVWhk7uUzzzPjUno54768QajSZ4Cgj6xmz7s4DAS2cgiGlODnRE-fFWE2SD/s400/IkeaEmmiePillows.jpg" /></a><br />
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Since I'm quite smitten with their "Emmie" textile line, thought I'd share some inspiration photos with you.<br />
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These blue toile inspired linens are called "Emmie Land." These are my favorite!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4vyviyUkqTEwreG3YoJyFuOR62id2hrQGN2OBbfaEMgLi1ElKrzG81ppT4Qwz0HZbe421jv_szU4WuSWw0CkEwpbBk_s0rGafGtSAC495KS92gp5A0NJOHTIAgtac5kXEcbbMUgCwCDe/s1600/BedLinens1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="279" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4vyviyUkqTEwreG3YoJyFuOR62id2hrQGN2OBbfaEMgLi1ElKrzG81ppT4Qwz0HZbe421jv_szU4WuSWw0CkEwpbBk_s0rGafGtSAC495KS92gp5A0NJOHTIAgtac5kXEcbbMUgCwCDe/s400/BedLinens1.jpg" /></a><br />
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I have been shopping at IKEA since my college, apartment, and townhome living days because it was one of the more inexpensive ways to furnish various spaces in our home.<br />
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And they really have improved many of their items since then, so I still really love to shop there. <br />
If you are into the "JDL" look, IKEA is a great place to go for that too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha8OBLDoDAipOFmnTPRUez45nQtMBKs6L1-rBo-HvKK6XuO85Uz6kojBxa0ZFilHdv6sLUVzrUrnIncwWopqjAhsjphJS1nAwvCKRnMqCm33_tUT7t9FSnVicmaUWstdwWZCpcdJBlGM6m/s1600/BlueBedPillows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha8OBLDoDAipOFmnTPRUez45nQtMBKs6L1-rBo-HvKK6XuO85Uz6kojBxa0ZFilHdv6sLUVzrUrnIncwWopqjAhsjphJS1nAwvCKRnMqCm33_tUT7t9FSnVicmaUWstdwWZCpcdJBlGM6m/s400/BlueBedPillows.JPG" /></a><br />
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You can mix & match their bed linens for a unique look. I love to pair their "ticking" inspired sheets with their "toile" inspired duvet covers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQK8d0BJdy4E2LNvYpIEYDmECxbegb71-3L3osI0gni0fSIBdk7KDEqq1TW0YkDRgVIw5apOHOJDBzr0uGivtk_cRTUxeAq3z-2OoKSyOMQscYGz1BmVdx-lmA5NX91ZVKg3OfLw527VnG/s1600/IkeaBlueKevist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQK8d0BJdy4E2LNvYpIEYDmECxbegb71-3L3osI0gni0fSIBdk7KDEqq1TW0YkDRgVIw5apOHOJDBzr0uGivtk_cRTUxeAq3z-2OoKSyOMQscYGz1BmVdx-lmA5NX91ZVKg3OfLw527VnG/s400/IkeaBlueKevist.jpg" /></a><br />
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This pattern above is called "Emma Kvist." <br />
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Again you can pair the "paisley" inspired sheets with the "toile" ones like below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNBN1avbUsU4JPHYFUFgxsm1XakjdgSvm_pGJuoiIvJneA_kNMzBxkI_vParxVJT-0EUj6PZO6fOldJBpxJD0bSIS_ZSU9ozL_l4VR1FLJPIAshZhTupiKBeyM3e0aBCNF0KWSeh0pZlM/s1600/EMMIEkvist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="273" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNBN1avbUsU4JPHYFUFgxsm1XakjdgSvm_pGJuoiIvJneA_kNMzBxkI_vParxVJT-0EUj6PZO6fOldJBpxJD0bSIS_ZSU9ozL_l4VR1FLJPIAshZhTupiKBeyM3e0aBCNF0KWSeh0pZlM/s400/EMMIEkvist.jpg" /></a><br />
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But if you are into the more feminine, English garden floral look, then you'll enjoy the look of these linens below:"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGKWNSu_CGcIwAPYHsgCckYOea_xybj9Gz-N0m1ATmvlwzLtUnoImTckwL3QfqMEs5nCmCn1I6u6c1xi6L9OGp9nOgOiCaTDDVkY8lpphgz0eDIMyR3pm4-R30yem5LRoqVyP2kC5JiK2/s1600/EmmieBlomDuvet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGKWNSu_CGcIwAPYHsgCckYOea_xybj9Gz-N0m1ATmvlwzLtUnoImTckwL3QfqMEs5nCmCn1I6u6c1xi6L9OGp9nOgOiCaTDDVkY8lpphgz0eDIMyR3pm4-R30yem5LRoqVyP2kC5JiK2/s400/EmmieBlomDuvet.JPG" /></a><br />
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This is called "Emmie Blom."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuaotsG2E5qAJhiVeTH04rAEVXlt_ubuwMteZjqAaAkXPkrWqW4JJ5PZHBLNhdpyZiT9oLoB7ylwxJZ3Q_JaS_jwW7nU450MIsZwwqqlc7oaTA_uDfF5ySSEjaQrlXlEC7spmo-2SXTDx/s1600/FloralLinens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="282" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuaotsG2E5qAJhiVeTH04rAEVXlt_ubuwMteZjqAaAkXPkrWqW4JJ5PZHBLNhdpyZiT9oLoB7ylwxJZ3Q_JaS_jwW7nU450MIsZwwqqlc7oaTA_uDfF5ySSEjaQrlXlEC7spmo-2SXTDx/s400/FloralLinens.jpg" /></a><br />
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Not only do they have bed linens, but they also have drapes {and even rugs} in the "Emmie" line to strike your fancy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLnKN8Hfo9ZdVA4-jzsok3v2peym4WLbh7vTE_bYCuS5qZe0tU305hSdGGFQ-bjfu52qefu4YqGs-dRZnNaNTOgIluAf4u5e9M6IZWpBQ6wzN_1J3cP2z55yIF-iTGAEHP62sLJeunyQg/s1600/EmmieSotDuvetPillows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLnKN8Hfo9ZdVA4-jzsok3v2peym4WLbh7vTE_bYCuS5qZe0tU305hSdGGFQ-bjfu52qefu4YqGs-dRZnNaNTOgIluAf4u5e9M6IZWpBQ6wzN_1J3cP2z55yIF-iTGAEHP62sLJeunyQg/s400/EmmieSotDuvetPillows.JPG" /></a><br />
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The pattern above is called "Emmie Sot."<br />
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By the way, many of the duvet covers are actually reversible! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdaQ6W6ccpHrg_UoGIaYxquyRrRwuQnioTVoYeRCYxBT-FpJO-MHegTIuorsZJG82JMBgoxcJXrfmtn-Dw_jTDweDtt2-OlM_N2u3jRrR1_qNHVjyL-EPWcg3x7Dh2D4pcbjG0RRegG1eC/s1600/EmmieSotFloral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="243" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdaQ6W6ccpHrg_UoGIaYxquyRrRwuQnioTVoYeRCYxBT-FpJO-MHegTIuorsZJG82JMBgoxcJXrfmtn-Dw_jTDweDtt2-OlM_N2u3jRrR1_qNHVjyL-EPWcg3x7Dh2D4pcbjG0RRegG1eC/s400/EmmieSotFloral.jpg" /></a><br />
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If you want, you can pair your floral fabrics with some "checkered" linens - the one you see above is called "Emmie Ruta." ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2G5wWWPH8fmez5ENKePh0vS2PkVuqY84-K-P7S3FbAOP5ZoFJ0LrtbFQZdaJzbdOu6Rvd02fFjgH-9x5hp4nS4OrjHF8txyoaTTrzggPjIY2ubJZlFnmAvKoPvd_fs-AKxvlo8tPJE14B/s1600/EmmieSotDuvet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2G5wWWPH8fmez5ENKePh0vS2PkVuqY84-K-P7S3FbAOP5ZoFJ0LrtbFQZdaJzbdOu6Rvd02fFjgH-9x5hp4nS4OrjHF8txyoaTTrzggPjIY2ubJZlFnmAvKoPvd_fs-AKxvlo8tPJE14B/s400/EmmieSotDuvet.JPG" /></a><br />
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The mix & match pillow cushion covers are called "Emmie Stra."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQ0t266z0IkAjmY3U2JyLwt7_wv6hdL0TJ6M2AGKyBkz-O9-sm-DA2fseVv6zn_lZS3mTJ0BZW76CzIt5muOOdJdgUF4hJmbnDiGYCRXOP_EHi7xkSDgPdISKZW6ggVd_Re8QvYzvARpa/s1600/IkeaPinkCouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="276" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQ0t266z0IkAjmY3U2JyLwt7_wv6hdL0TJ6M2AGKyBkz-O9-sm-DA2fseVv6zn_lZS3mTJ0BZW76CzIt5muOOdJdgUF4hJmbnDiGYCRXOP_EHi7xkSDgPdISKZW6ggVd_Re8QvYzvARpa/s400/IkeaPinkCouch.jpg" /></a><br />
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You can even get creative like in some of these pink & white romantic inspiration photos below:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN5emV68UVLsgCuaMVqxD7fT3Kng5SBvDUFsMfHxbCCZ4SnvxAbId8RwZmCA6C0CAhdsIeRq8l0zpzZqxzXguJh6QXQFcEnKFPzx42CgDCRrl2IUaEyxj1e0HPeV8W-BSPu8Xyp2Aqw47s/s1600/IkeaPinkBed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="276" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN5emV68UVLsgCuaMVqxD7fT3Kng5SBvDUFsMfHxbCCZ4SnvxAbId8RwZmCA6C0CAhdsIeRq8l0zpzZqxzXguJh6QXQFcEnKFPzx42CgDCRrl2IUaEyxj1e0HPeV8W-BSPu8Xyp2Aqw47s/s400/IkeaPinkBed.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafOl0l7mbSJrOTsreeB66RoTywTkUyYA0rv5F-JCM35zR61WybNVqnHoSXzrM0WEMLjyGXF8zGcVeymF6t02vvG357ImVwRXLBraWg7USyzAyNTxsqzZ9ESDQYi8JgWBrFjI6-lenRml6/s1600/IkeaPinkPillows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafOl0l7mbSJrOTsreeB66RoTywTkUyYA0rv5F-JCM35zR61WybNVqnHoSXzrM0WEMLjyGXF8zGcVeymF6t02vvG357ImVwRXLBraWg7USyzAyNTxsqzZ9ESDQYi8JgWBrFjI6-lenRml6/s400/IkeaPinkPillows.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHjeY03kqESh7oGNzVn6trP5t0hkqAZyCV0OcchEzOmToLRB1EJuKrtIQ_DeFW7XGWoA-LPUFgXvd2eUA788B8ttKxaSpVodKJoxAJTn0hM0xU8GpSek4PV2mygjz-wk6NDmswXaoJq62/s1600/IkeaPink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHjeY03kqESh7oGNzVn6trP5t0hkqAZyCV0OcchEzOmToLRB1EJuKrtIQ_DeFW7XGWoA-LPUFgXvd2eUA788B8ttKxaSpVodKJoxAJTn0hM0xU8GpSek4PV2mygjz-wk6NDmswXaoJq62/s400/IkeaPink.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnM1Cry6TN3cA7IC3Lm9B9aINRjn1MFAdwshiOb2yYQ9qWsOzy14a7Helv96iX3kNwgANfjOgnrvkMe5lUCSSjjcsjTEhuN_jqkWajGQFp-TYnghvvXdAkHqOdVMu1pDM6ynB2AUesrumV/s1600/IkeaPinkBed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="391" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnM1Cry6TN3cA7IC3Lm9B9aINRjn1MFAdwshiOb2yYQ9qWsOzy14a7Helv96iX3kNwgANfjOgnrvkMe5lUCSSjjcsjTEhuN_jqkWajGQFp-TYnghvvXdAkHqOdVMu1pDM6ynB2AUesrumV/s400/IkeaPinkBed2.jpg" /></a><br />
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In addition to IKEA's bedroom linens, they also have vintage inspired kitchen textiles too. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvEUddgPthW00tfpaVvlz5N7oBDe0HVGKUfvO8qc4qO5PA4TAJtx5cZIUfXoLQTsuYcvTQvEFFzpVyTek7VAUD_mloDQSJbwkX3HPSjNK6JpI6EZ1RU6uVNr2ilJ0p2B1KO2lcRFCeiDW/s1600/TeklaDishTowelRed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvEUddgPthW00tfpaVvlz5N7oBDe0HVGKUfvO8qc4qO5PA4TAJtx5cZIUfXoLQTsuYcvTQvEFFzpVyTek7VAUD_mloDQSJbwkX3HPSjNK6JpI6EZ1RU6uVNr2ilJ0p2B1KO2lcRFCeiDW/s400/TeklaDishTowelRed.JPG" /></a><br />
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As can be seen in their Red & Blue "Tekla" Tea Towels.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNcfz3mz_4LUzEUVs5Qk3GMPGjpZx-FpetIKvgZf9fs3MxYBtlvonPCVjNcSwM-ybP5eG6eCTxSmv9qSy6fBSneQ9CPhRtBguxdYKHiht50dbbs97eCc9kI8hyphenhyphen_tdft_X6cokTpGvqFVd/s1600/TeklaDishTowelBlue.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNcfz3mz_4LUzEUVs5Qk3GMPGjpZx-FpetIKvgZf9fs3MxYBtlvonPCVjNcSwM-ybP5eG6eCTxSmv9qSy6fBSneQ9CPhRtBguxdYKHiht50dbbs97eCc9kI8hyphenhyphen_tdft_X6cokTpGvqFVd/s400/TeklaDishTowelBlue.JPG" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM-cZWuFL3yqvBHeHry6PWc1HEH6GCcmtB88N6CxoVZKYeMpz9GVqMsmRuMzR_9fOUgdMxp2ezHxixmYNHeMcml2LQHAmKVcUn2-ptT05eW3avKAIsnE9va5qQi_ogtiTaAPPDNb7td965/s1600/EllyDishTowel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="235" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM-cZWuFL3yqvBHeHry6PWc1HEH6GCcmtB88N6CxoVZKYeMpz9GVqMsmRuMzR_9fOUgdMxp2ezHxixmYNHeMcml2LQHAmKVcUn2-ptT05eW3avKAIsnE9va5qQi_ogtiTaAPPDNb7td965/s400/EllyDishTowel2.jpg" /></a><br />
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As well as in their "Evalill" line of Aprons, Dish Towels, Pot Holders & "Tripp" Rose Tin Canisters.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1tXAntp3AgLj7hNyYP89cTbzFqG_t-410j81hv0SudQ5hO43iKRWs3HmmQ7IL4jLHgPlLg9lnME8jnPKAtoIn8aTreDeVQRH9rRabj004jbm3mZ3AUTNhroAoCHesdi2xNalCe6e343fy/s1600/Evalill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1tXAntp3AgLj7hNyYP89cTbzFqG_t-410j81hv0SudQ5hO43iKRWs3HmmQ7IL4jLHgPlLg9lnME8jnPKAtoIn8aTreDeVQRH9rRabj004jbm3mZ3AUTNhroAoCHesdi2xNalCe6e343fy/s400/Evalill.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs88t8lJxMolv59ed46W0I_Q5EMTfZxs44lrzLYg0pa8MjRbIYs5_qW9cYScJ_SArPUnBljDwZzSX6XMP_9f8BHjyMxPWHnHn8djYmH2chRmWC4qg4zUzJw8OE7AjKuyAyqozGRTaxtCwl/s1600/TrippTin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs88t8lJxMolv59ed46W0I_Q5EMTfZxs44lrzLYg0pa8MjRbIYs5_qW9cYScJ_SArPUnBljDwZzSX6XMP_9f8BHjyMxPWHnHn8djYmH2chRmWC4qg4zUzJw8OE7AjKuyAyqozGRTaxtCwl/s400/TrippTin.JPG" /></a><br />
Hope you enjoyed these inspiration photos which can be found <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/collections/21764/" target=_"blank"><font color="purple">HERE,</font></a> <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/Textiles/18850/" target="_blank"><font color="purple">HERE,</font></a> and <a href="http://decoestilo.hoymujer.com/articulo/el-torreon-de-la-princesa/" target="_blank"><font color="purple">HERE</font></a>. <br />
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Now you know why I love to shop at Ikea! :) They also have really cute "woodland inspired" textiles for children {perfect for little boys}, but that would require a separate post! ;)<br />
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So if you don't have a local Ikea, you can either visit their <a href="http://www.ikea.com/" target="_blank"><font color="purple">online site</font></a> or you can look for their products on <a href="http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_trksid=p5197.m570.l1313&_nkw=emmie+ikea&_sacat=0" target="_blank"><font color="purple">eBay</font></a>. <br />
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Have a great day everyone! ;)<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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Planning to share this here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.freckledlaundry.com"><img src="http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa176/JamiClune/NewPartyButton.png" alt="freckled laundry" width="125" height="125" /></a><br />
</center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-44990172265169085962012-07-27T23:25:00.002-07:002012-07-31T16:00:59.299-07:00Whites in the Kitchen<center><font size="4">Happy Friday friends! <br />
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Today I am officially done with my finals, so I'm hoping to finish up some loose ends regarding some home projects before I start again for the Fall Semester {which is much sooner rather than later}. <br />
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But thought I'd share two sneak peek pics of our <strike>newly</strike> painted kitchen cabinets.<br />
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If you recall, this was an ongoing {off & on} project that I started late last Fall...but wasn't completely finished until last month.<br />
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There is still some "tweaking" that needs to get done in our kitchen, so until it's all done, these two pics will do for now. ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAS1ZbLDpQ8ORS_Bii5XWaeWNX1qXkO4uoQvT0bFKkJgDoPFF7t3U0OfKF4rkRpZ9FClTd6sz40JoO5YrkSmFu2pZp3DeuZO6oRSDSZOJdalFzo3M55dal93jhQ6_WxMzLpKcvk7LBs3V-/s1600/Upper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAS1ZbLDpQ8ORS_Bii5XWaeWNX1qXkO4uoQvT0bFKkJgDoPFF7t3U0OfKF4rkRpZ9FClTd6sz40JoO5YrkSmFu2pZp3DeuZO6oRSDSZOJdalFzo3M55dal93jhQ6_WxMzLpKcvk7LBs3V-/s400/Upper.jpg" /></a><br />
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Here are photos of part of the upper & lower cabinets. Yes, those are brushed nickel pulls paired with vintage inspired glass knobs! <br />
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We are going to install white subway tiles for the backsplash, amongst a few other minor details that need to be completed. <br />
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But I am really loving the white cabinets so far! It really opens up our <strike>tiny</strike> cozy kitchen! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRTwl_MoxTJulo7vA83QVS2UR7AlHllRYtjviIcS_-_pcInsR_hZWcgJWRHphitEDyd4qUlZd-o0y_VbbYPdouW4EYvWyzIBAXGVBhEG77F2yEn6h1eSbuxKkHLND6O2YZMrORdVKMOuF/s1600/Bottom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="264" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRTwl_MoxTJulo7vA83QVS2UR7AlHllRYtjviIcS_-_pcInsR_hZWcgJWRHphitEDyd4qUlZd-o0y_VbbYPdouW4EYvWyzIBAXGVBhEG77F2yEn6h1eSbuxKkHLND6O2YZMrORdVKMOuF/s400/Bottom.jpg" /></a><br />
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Anyway, before I end this brief post thought I'd leave you with a photo of a cake that I made for my son's 13th birthday a few years ago. ;) <br />
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He will be turning 16 really soon... **sigh** They grow up way too fast. :(<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGioDDfFLv3B6aZZ4XQc5ikAWmowEirHJzDJTj7p4wLJWrS1CSKpvba1PjFoyu4X9gbsNnO0c35GUQJUdoB8PXjpPlMmnKQplhKS_VJ4EL0Qwj_sumGl_jXSMDuEjbFdWn2_lh-TqvKgHP/s1600/Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="307" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGioDDfFLv3B6aZZ4XQc5ikAWmowEirHJzDJTj7p4wLJWrS1CSKpvba1PjFoyu4X9gbsNnO0c35GUQJUdoB8PXjpPlMmnKQplhKS_VJ4EL0Qwj_sumGl_jXSMDuEjbFdWn2_lh-TqvKgHP/s400/Cake.jpg" /></a><br />
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I came across this while organizing my files and it really put me in a "baking mood!" :)<br />
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This is a simple triple layer, classic genoise cake with pastry cream & fresh strawberry filling with homemade whipped cream topping because he requested "something strawberry" {as he puts it}. <br />
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What will you be doing this weekend? I'll probably be in the kitchen baking something sweet, because I can never resist! :)<br />
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Thank you once again for taking the time to visit my page and/or leaving me a comment, I always truly appreciate it! <br />
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Take care everyone and have a wonderful day!<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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</font><br />
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Sharing at: <a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2012/07/white-wednesday-163.html" target="_blank">White Wednesday @Faded Charm</a></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-69053184121323047312012-07-23T23:30:00.001-07:002012-07-24T16:06:40.164-07:00A Little French Flea Market<center><font size="4">Happy Monday everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. I know it's been a few weeks since my last post, so thought I'd let you in briefly on what I've been up to.<br />
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The other weekend my eldest son had a rare allergic reaction that warranted a trip to the Emergency Room! It was such a scare, but thank goodness he ended up being fine. <br />
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My youngest one is also ill, and we have to be very careful with him when he gets sick because he is prone to getting pneumonia due to the fluid build-up in his lungs. So needless to say, trips to the doctor's office have been quite frequent this past month.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_JrCeXIMCqSXQQ73WXICohdorojcAdt28SwdYI31MvPvDtn-0e6CwqkNRdfQd_4eoUzYGJ5lIa-qqMb38bpweIPl22MlgnnBxnFwvW-7UC_GUGoVw1PYbzMHr_3j3Tk9PYRQc9fnBLgNj/s1600/IMG_3746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_JrCeXIMCqSXQQ73WXICohdorojcAdt28SwdYI31MvPvDtn-0e6CwqkNRdfQd_4eoUzYGJ5lIa-qqMb38bpweIPl22MlgnnBxnFwvW-7UC_GUGoVw1PYbzMHr_3j3Tk9PYRQc9fnBLgNj/s400/IMG_3746.JPG" /></a><br />
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July is also flying by soooo fast! Especially since I've been taking this very intense course for the summer which has taken up so much of my time. <br />
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So I apologize for not being able to get back to everyone the way I used to. I feel so bad when I'm not always able to visit all of your lovely blogs as much as I'd like. Hopefully that will all change soon.<br />
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In another month, I start again for the normal school year. This week is actually finals week for me, so this past weekend I decided to take a last minute "breather" and stopped by a Flea Market here in Southern Cali.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2IgAMEnIJ6QqO34epD_fx8jxMhwVpTJpuf3XVz1TmT3j8aW8jyIHlKqpKLO27nHVaoLwpLlFf59z4woGmKvx7T3y_e5P0s1wdaRJ49VTCsj-qHqI7faQxCSvjQbD-K81Q8XlsSr-fDPQz/s1600/3752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="342" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2IgAMEnIJ6QqO34epD_fx8jxMhwVpTJpuf3XVz1TmT3j8aW8jyIHlKqpKLO27nHVaoLwpLlFf59z4woGmKvx7T3y_e5P0s1wdaRJ49VTCsj-qHqI7faQxCSvjQbD-K81Q8XlsSr-fDPQz/s400/3752.jpg" /></a><br />
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It's called the "Little French Flea Market" and it is located in Tarzana. So if you happen to live near the West Valley here in Los Angeles or don't mind taking the trip over there, it's worth the visit! <br />
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Here are a few pictures of this cute little flea market and I believe the next one is scheduled for November 17th.<br />
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It's a wonderful little market and there seems to be something there for everyone to enjoy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6osiLhLJaFiWqtrXTITFbrkPzfbrKaUnWym2wCCmHaFEUa-Gh1FO_GZxFcOelYepkbHGDgBKfpkx5gJRjoaCAFi6GyrQUZ7DtTxAkK2_WgSVQUIiDEJtOJESYh_E8oy7Y8Dc9WZvH5x8/s1600/3732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6osiLhLJaFiWqtrXTITFbrkPzfbrKaUnWym2wCCmHaFEUa-Gh1FO_GZxFcOelYepkbHGDgBKfpkx5gJRjoaCAFi6GyrQUZ7DtTxAkK2_WgSVQUIiDEJtOJESYh_E8oy7Y8Dc9WZvH5x8/s400/3732.jpg" /></a><br />
{Shabby Chic Romantic Vintage}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNklnjqcP2O3qjZlSRnZZfT9c0lTDZQKI9QX7KcjmABMdFcIVTU4-kUQNBsXzlqdknuLMNquS0YnEZubNLDVTjhehmVJfOm5s6n5nBA7UPY5BeBtp-IRkGKbyxgMo1ewYiMIYrFp748TP5/s1600/3755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="353" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNklnjqcP2O3qjZlSRnZZfT9c0lTDZQKI9QX7KcjmABMdFcIVTU4-kUQNBsXzlqdknuLMNquS0YnEZubNLDVTjhehmVJfOm5s6n5nBA7UPY5BeBtp-IRkGKbyxgMo1ewYiMIYrFp748TP5/s400/3755.jpg" /></a><br />
{Industrial Vintage}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9QN_nkllU-TVs9xyIRNPCCPVLgB9uOfysxmWNJoCdn4ycwSlttuTFZsRE-_3-p2ACThpD9xJvs_4OU3_2EE5dgDxrkdOtBJu3wwyhROUGzpji5r8Ab2i3bcr0VkqryouiVRXgDnwmdQW/s1600/3743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9QN_nkllU-TVs9xyIRNPCCPVLgB9uOfysxmWNJoCdn4ycwSlttuTFZsRE-_3-p2ACThpD9xJvs_4OU3_2EE5dgDxrkdOtBJu3wwyhROUGzpji5r8Ab2i3bcr0VkqryouiVRXgDnwmdQW/s400/3743.jpg" /></a><br />
{Beachy Cottage Chic}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2fhlWYBb7BTSaYw0fEF7iX__1yIAnnv5jsOfVynCF5pMAM8ejBFly3MAQfkdeADHpTXrUPik3n2phSVu1nQ45ZyTVDNm72dk7z_R3SLVIxlzs_169ktbLFl62H_qMPBk65t_cFywGWS7/s1600/3733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="298" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2fhlWYBb7BTSaYw0fEF7iX__1yIAnnv5jsOfVynCF5pMAM8ejBFly3MAQfkdeADHpTXrUPik3n2phSVu1nQ45ZyTVDNm72dk7z_R3SLVIxlzs_169ktbLFl62H_qMPBk65t_cFywGWS7/s400/3733.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3FKI0wzca1UA93OMk84y907HdPth_1q0ffl3eZxPctHL71i6usGr0NZDTmeOPecY996Pq8NQaEbrAn3k-OVgNIcw-9u09x_9tEXXjy3-v6ofs5jcRPNbhJfGfvs7XAnPfqQmj_O-tICl/s1600/3728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3FKI0wzca1UA93OMk84y907HdPth_1q0ffl3eZxPctHL71i6usGr0NZDTmeOPecY996Pq8NQaEbrAn3k-OVgNIcw-9u09x_9tEXXjy3-v6ofs5jcRPNbhJfGfvs7XAnPfqQmj_O-tICl/s400/3728.jpg" /></a><br />
{Primitive Lighting}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsrL14nBsqp8Tg2IePzfCBjxaXVzQEV8q3OfPQtsDY4Bsep0wAHKtby1es-tA2Nd4aBhMatZzHOkgPfk1lUWZb6ICziu_S297svBf0tt0waliF3p6gLzCAp121cwWRLSx8dmQOy-cbiCI/s1600/3738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsrL14nBsqp8Tg2IePzfCBjxaXVzQEV8q3OfPQtsDY4Bsep0wAHKtby1es-tA2Nd4aBhMatZzHOkgPfk1lUWZb6ICziu_S297svBf0tt0waliF3p6gLzCAp121cwWRLSx8dmQOy-cbiCI/s400/3738.jpg" /></a><br />
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I wasn't really looking for anything in particular while I was there, because the visit to the flea market was rather last minute, and was more of "stress reliever" for me {flea marketing always makes one feel better, doesn't it?}. ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0i9ZQxMcSgjj954P0eUMJkZ5djnUU6JyCIQuNUNUnFZHVjyQzLF1NulGTF8jEtaUzO9TgWqXWrTGytDGIRtFSgv0OQXjNnVU38KhBSU6kVAW_ZD5tTPy6EHjmvTPWuK1qFtj2gJhltzV2/s1600/3756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0i9ZQxMcSgjj954P0eUMJkZ5djnUU6JyCIQuNUNUnFZHVjyQzLF1NulGTF8jEtaUzO9TgWqXWrTGytDGIRtFSgv0OQXjNnVU38KhBSU6kVAW_ZD5tTPy6EHjmvTPWuK1qFtj2gJhltzV2/s400/3756.jpg" /></a><br />
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However, I did manage to score an Antique French Enamel Cream Can, some French Labeled Bud Vases, and beautiful Vintage Silverware that were all less than $50 total. I hope to share pictures of those in the near future.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbURVnrP5Fza5pbwVdzB2XEnjoxJPd3-oFcmF6MIZZbAGzi_er6OWjVDwCKlpW3jMtavN7OKZqH1RkP6kA-7yJ5HVO6bb6PA_NrH5O15rUeoaAwqm0yFh_nOkAgpjP5f26ito25zJBTuZx/s1600/3729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbURVnrP5Fza5pbwVdzB2XEnjoxJPd3-oFcmF6MIZZbAGzi_er6OWjVDwCKlpW3jMtavN7OKZqH1RkP6kA-7yJ5HVO6bb6PA_NrH5O15rUeoaAwqm0yFh_nOkAgpjP5f26ito25zJBTuZx/s400/3729.jpg" /></a><br />
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In the meanwhile, I hope you have enjoyed these photos. The Little French Flea Market also has a <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Little-French-Flea-Market/149649065076760" target="_blank"><font color="red">Facebook Page</font></a> that you can visit for more information about their upcoming events.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNy5FJmCqGIK08CH-iDfVJGfAoXywxVCs5PDSw_rN7kIHrPADUNV7hCE8fDcClrOrcds4rYLh2xrn5uLpjO9cPPLlj_1x2SjDYcPZXs5ZnMNc0_PkuZsPa7eXcDes_V_V48W6KdsF5fQFs/s1600/3736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNy5FJmCqGIK08CH-iDfVJGfAoXywxVCs5PDSw_rN7kIHrPADUNV7hCE8fDcClrOrcds4rYLh2xrn5uLpjO9cPPLlj_1x2SjDYcPZXs5ZnMNc0_PkuZsPa7eXcDes_V_V48W6KdsF5fQFs/s400/3736.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWe266wUKUkjH1silAO2bln6YmwZH2RRtKw75Qj6O0h_U8m9D_mO7BbaTTxKWpc-QhNh0m5UBsATjJ1s_rVyKuvp0FtjDMSJdLvWwCvov58knnfS9aMXFzqliDu1oUKqJk2WxiQOw7_3g3/s1600/3754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWe266wUKUkjH1silAO2bln6YmwZH2RRtKw75Qj6O0h_U8m9D_mO7BbaTTxKWpc-QhNh0m5UBsATjJ1s_rVyKuvp0FtjDMSJdLvWwCvov58knnfS9aMXFzqliDu1oUKqJk2WxiQOw7_3g3/s400/3754.jpg" /></a><br />
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Well my friends, that is all for today. I will be preoccupied for the rest of the week finishing up studying for finals. So after the week's end, I hope to post all about the "goings on" over here at "A Cozy Cottage in the City!" ;) Thanks again to everyone who continues to drop by my blog - your comments and visits to my page are always so greatly appreciated! Take care and enjoy the rest of your week!<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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Linking with: <a href="http://verymerryvintagestyle.blogspot.com/2012/07/link-party-time-ideas-for-framing-tv-in.html" target="_blank">Very Merry Vintage Style</a></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-14621063770415804712012-07-01T21:00:00.000-07:002012-07-02T04:10:09.774-07:00Hello July & another way to keep in touch...<center><font size="4"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZx43mjHEB9brgGztQsAGJaWnE1lE_N1vbJ4t-MKVVCkjE4V_eqOAiQWsStmM4SjAWrxf6u_yJDGzDZ73zLkIhfY6M7ZOfmwnlO2obYhsNyaBxW3VETqkawXm472LixBUtssY6tgRMSJaQ/s1600/58604_1609480119676_8065106_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZx43mjHEB9brgGztQsAGJaWnE1lE_N1vbJ4t-MKVVCkjE4V_eqOAiQWsStmM4SjAWrxf6u_yJDGzDZ73zLkIhfY6M7ZOfmwnlO2obYhsNyaBxW3VETqkawXm472LixBUtssY6tgRMSJaQ/s400/58604_1609480119676_8065106_n.jpeg" /></a><br />
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Happy July everyone!!! I hope everyone is enjoying their Sunday so far. :) Well yesterday I finally got on the bandwagon and joined Twitter (I know I'm a bit behind on this one)! If you already have an account, please feel free to follow me there or you can click on the image icon below to check it out - you don't need an account to view my "tweets {that sounds so funny, doesn't it}!" lol Still tweaking it a bit, but I think it will be fun! :)<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/CozyCityCottage" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/16c8mpx.jpg"></a><br />
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Have a wonderful day everyone! And thanks again for all of your kind comments on my previous post, it really made my day! :)<br />
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XOXO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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</font><br />
</center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-30538952909501420132012-06-27T21:00:00.001-07:002012-06-28T16:52:41.229-07:00An Anniversary & a French Provincial Surprise!<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jvcZZ_kbNUcNyNeduQNhUhXKkUZLrs_xPuerJwDqdZRCwhZz-jFduM-yPp2NBKMoL7mfJAKnzD5EJFpd-gIw9Rz70y4WQf8TuFvDu6-ZhedWdgwgqOC8MuQe0AF5ia0ll083Gb2cGYYR/s1600/223631937716748623_eQwKfvpl_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jvcZZ_kbNUcNyNeduQNhUhXKkUZLrs_xPuerJwDqdZRCwhZz-jFduM-yPp2NBKMoL7mfJAKnzD5EJFpd-gIw9Rz70y4WQf8TuFvDu6-ZhedWdgwgqOC8MuQe0AF5ia0ll083Gb2cGYYR/s400/223631937716748623_eQwKfvpl_c.jpg" /></a><br />
{<a href="http://pinterest.com/tads99/french-provincial-love/" target="_blank">via</a>}<br />
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<font size="4">Hello ladies (& gents)! How are you all today? Well a few days ago marked our Wedding Anniversary, and even though my hubby and I celebrated 7 years of marriage on June 25th, we have known each other for 17 years, and have been together for 16 of them! He really is my best friend, and I honestly feel so blessed to be able to celebrate another year with the love of my life! :) Last Saturday night we watched a movie and enjoyed a lovely candlelight dinner sans kiddos {a rare fete, mind you}. :)</font><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImg9SO7_gv-tVcsdY4m9_EEUboizKJ_dgzSroSotqNg4CsZRyGPYKwrK8v91rWnWfHA86TOCNK2xYo-YshfxnVkUMkmFtuU7VycBmGheccdxf2l95-ceTX17wHg0Cq-2JQLp6geGDXKAj/s1600/3656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="297" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImg9SO7_gv-tVcsdY4m9_EEUboizKJ_dgzSroSotqNg4CsZRyGPYKwrK8v91rWnWfHA86TOCNK2xYo-YshfxnVkUMkmFtuU7VycBmGheccdxf2l95-ceTX17wHg0Cq-2JQLp6geGDXKAj/s400/3656.jpg" /></a><br />
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<font size="4">Because we have been on an <b><u>ultra tight</u></b> budget this year, I told my husband that I did not want him to buy me a gift, and that I would be so very content to just be in his company for our "date night." :) But to my surprise, my sweet hubby presented me with something that I never thought I'd ever own (at least not with the prices that I've seen these listed for)! I walked into our living room and there before me was a Vintage French Provincial Vanity with its beautiful bowed legs and original hardware!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwKyOU_8fuperRvxTamKMX7tge3jGY-CeRNN1FQDpA6Jls-qarGHc8q5T9BGLLuwFfQMphNimdU2E5s9rG_zHyftZwhIxVgD6-yur2JhBRCcUFG88bns9WI5P3RoDRQJCmOIgFseRTLeY/s1600/3667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="297" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwKyOU_8fuperRvxTamKMX7tge3jGY-CeRNN1FQDpA6Jls-qarGHc8q5T9BGLLuwFfQMphNimdU2E5s9rG_zHyftZwhIxVgD6-yur2JhBRCcUFG88bns9WI5P3RoDRQJCmOIgFseRTLeY/s400/3667.jpg" /></a><br />
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I just wasn't expecting something so lovely to grace my home! What is even more enjoyable about this gift, was that he found it in a thrift store for only $60!!! That really is a steal considering this is such an amazing antique piece made of solid wood, complete with it's beautiful dovetailed drawers!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8Wcx5MxBYKwsBeQhCZVP8KWwTyfBpCH2PX4pEWMJxcWB6mZ5FE_kAIqlGNTxoGR6qbnAGZrs1pdL3LuPQlgRLpUeGZBINNeTZXL5HOYPvZosO4g81xDpvn97-0EsDj13tF_g8jd2n4ox/s1600/3668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8Wcx5MxBYKwsBeQhCZVP8KWwTyfBpCH2PX4pEWMJxcWB6mZ5FE_kAIqlGNTxoGR6qbnAGZrs1pdL3LuPQlgRLpUeGZBINNeTZXL5HOYPvZosO4g81xDpvn97-0EsDj13tF_g8jd2n4ox/s400/3668.jpg" /></a><br />
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I also just love how the mirror pops up! When my hubby originally found this, it had some old yarn and needlework within it, along with some old vintage papers. Oh and please disregard the "blobby" image in the mirror. I was sitting right in front of it and had to "blur" myself out! :) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlcQ0k3tnipUS5B6Q_7DQTo2arwapTyzLfQa5rHtLJDOkd3fkKKv04NwtIwFaArZv9iuLsbSdbE3YZEkzeOzx0plE5diUtJ9tQMcI8C5Sk6MU-54iT0i3H8MozwEHeJZ328Pv2Z9teWMa9/s1600/3663.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="318" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlcQ0k3tnipUS5B6Q_7DQTo2arwapTyzLfQa5rHtLJDOkd3fkKKv04NwtIwFaArZv9iuLsbSdbE3YZEkzeOzx0plE5diUtJ9tQMcI8C5Sk6MU-54iT0i3H8MozwEHeJZ328Pv2Z9teWMa9/s400/3663.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTwuK96oQHVcJQMF-9IUse4slxEqrypvr3-h4Bitxq8V2RJCVVdn4U0TIiUKFuc5dYw4R8duIXp4l5MDjM4RxCzLALQtGXINQezOYgMvf6eEkCq8pbIfd0282QFa968UN8uMrVYgAouLw/s1600/3669.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTwuK96oQHVcJQMF-9IUse4slxEqrypvr3-h4Bitxq8V2RJCVVdn4U0TIiUKFuc5dYw4R8duIXp4l5MDjM4RxCzLALQtGXINQezOYgMvf6eEkCq8pbIfd0282QFa968UN8uMrVYgAouLw/s400/3669.jpg" /></a><br />
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I have some plans in my head of how I want to "paint & restore" it, and was getting tons of inspiration via google & pinterest. I could distress the bottom and stain and wax the top like this:</font><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSESk0TbdhINRL3VMnw9fcCmu1L620XuQ9BQ-bTRe3FCQ1JM0KNA_t2PED3kk5fIVBgncDwZu_-W-zKL6SirxQV9ZIFaXEeHKK7nP4SiLlgEDWpSOdjfupE7Jmx0TMp5Zmw-yNaGlnT0ZZ/s1600/EPF-Bed+Vanity+Dresser+Console+136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSESk0TbdhINRL3VMnw9fcCmu1L620XuQ9BQ-bTRe3FCQ1JM0KNA_t2PED3kk5fIVBgncDwZu_-W-zKL6SirxQV9ZIFaXEeHKK7nP4SiLlgEDWpSOdjfupE7Jmx0TMp5Zmw-yNaGlnT0ZZ/s400/EPF-Bed+Vanity+Dresser+Console+136.jpg" /></a><br />
{<a href="https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=french+provincial+vanity&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&biw=1018&bih=513&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&ei=kOXqT9aHE-fq2AWlraXKAQ" target="_blank">via</a>}<br />
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<font size="4">Or go "Shabby Chic" like this:</font><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxEz5bldBcN_8Tk4Zs4BmR9GNmJOqIPF1N-HMwVeCzF4YahsUBXC4G0V2mhQR_1uxgiTydINWfDESVBqd0oIM1Dnr8m9wjGCvGSCcddk2ijDH0murpe_nhm6R96bbyPexRyF1OCcEY8g5B/s1600/WhiteShabbyVanity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="256" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxEz5bldBcN_8Tk4Zs4BmR9GNmJOqIPF1N-HMwVeCzF4YahsUBXC4G0V2mhQR_1uxgiTydINWfDESVBqd0oIM1Dnr8m9wjGCvGSCcddk2ijDH0murpe_nhm6R96bbyPexRyF1OCcEY8g5B/s400/WhiteShabbyVanity.jpg" /></a><br />
{<a href="https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=french+provincial+vanity&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&biw=1018&bih=513&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&ei=kOXqT9aHE-fq2AWlraXKAQ" target="_blank">via</a>}<br />
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<font size="4">Or keep it classic:</font><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtk_6lWoYAIcjVXZhWIqDX_tVho8yjdWfgYZ_tTGJV8FhenCuYKyufIicrfEvGKKzWp_QktmKIa0R_ZEr8eO3JPyz5qj-flB1wgugqdXu-AmyEFqPIan1SFsK1-j63DWoUy1KABwB7l9B/s1600/236720524133141978_Q8ZZ6Gac_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtk_6lWoYAIcjVXZhWIqDX_tVho8yjdWfgYZ_tTGJV8FhenCuYKyufIicrfEvGKKzWp_QktmKIa0R_ZEr8eO3JPyz5qj-flB1wgugqdXu-AmyEFqPIan1SFsK1-j63DWoUy1KABwB7l9B/s400/236720524133141978_Q8ZZ6Gac_c.jpg" /></a><br />
{<a href="http://pinterest.com/tads99/french-provincial-love/" target="_blank">via</a>}<br />
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<font size="4">Or perhaps be a bit daring and throw in some color like this:</font><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jvcZZ_kbNUcNyNeduQNhUhXKkUZLrs_xPuerJwDqdZRCwhZz-jFduM-yPp2NBKMoL7mfJAKnzD5EJFpd-gIw9Rz70y4WQf8TuFvDu6-ZhedWdgwgqOC8MuQe0AF5ia0ll083Gb2cGYYR/s1600/223631937716748623_eQwKfvpl_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jvcZZ_kbNUcNyNeduQNhUhXKkUZLrs_xPuerJwDqdZRCwhZz-jFduM-yPp2NBKMoL7mfJAKnzD5EJFpd-gIw9Rz70y4WQf8TuFvDu6-ZhedWdgwgqOC8MuQe0AF5ia0ll083Gb2cGYYR/s400/223631937716748623_eQwKfvpl_c.jpg" /></a><br />
{<a href="http://pinterest.com/tads99/french-provincial-love/" target="_blank">via</a>}<br />
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<font size="4">However, I was thinking along the lines of painting it gray and white using the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint that I won from a previous giveaway {at <a href="http://www.carterscottage.net/" target="_blank">Carter's Cottage</a>} earlier this year! The image below is a painted piece of furniture using "Paris Gray" & "Old White" ASCP! Now "what say you?" Which is your favorite? I'd love to hear your input on what color you think I should paint my newly acquired Vintage Vanity! :) </font><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGByHEE4deOgUn3s_YdTE1WmXrCRBVqdjjJ02QfcD6RKrFJMUfVBMs7Ay4tm1cw_1KWM2qlxPTMZhkGXx_qELojdGDuyP9ggU9cKJ0_XuA6L07gQ6qAMw_cPlMFsOvCjhBsXa5LwOTWabv/s1600/97460779406272072_hyIe8epR_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGByHEE4deOgUn3s_YdTE1WmXrCRBVqdjjJ02QfcD6RKrFJMUfVBMs7Ay4tm1cw_1KWM2qlxPTMZhkGXx_qELojdGDuyP9ggU9cKJ0_XuA6L07gQ6qAMw_cPlMFsOvCjhBsXa5LwOTWabv/s400/97460779406272072_hyIe8epR_c.jpg" /></a><br />
{<a href="http://pinterest.com/tads99/french-provincial-love/" target="_blank">via</a>}<br />
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<font size="4">Well my dear friends, that is all for today. Thank you once again for stopping by my page to visit - it is ALWAYS greatly appreciated! I know I have been a bit behind with my visits to your beautiful pages, but I am currently taking a much needed summer course that is taking more time than I had hoped for! 15 Chapters, 4 Exams, plus daily discussion posts - all within a 5 week condensed period!!! :( I didn't realize how much work it was going to be, but I'm hanging in there! :) So I thank you all again for your kind words and encouragement, it means a great deal to have you as blogger friends! :) Until next time, have a most glorious day!<br />
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XO's,<br />
Jessie<br />
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Sharing with: Debra @<a href="http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot.com/2012/06/vintage-inspiration-94-patriotic-party.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FbCGJMl+%28Common+Ground%29" target="_blank">Vintage Inspiration Friday</a><br />
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</center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-8838113118553633412012-06-17T03:49:00.001-07:002012-06-19T14:33:36.967-07:00Whispers of White<font size="4"><center>Hello everyone!!! I know it's been a LONG while since I've posted...and gosh, I really do feel "out of the loop" in blogland!!! But I do hope that will all change this summer. I just didn't anticipate how difficult it would be to manage my time with school, projects and keeping up with my hectic hubby's and childrens' schedules! The good news is that I managed to keep up my 4.0 GPA...and that's pretty much a miracle since it's been awhile since I've been a committed student {for those of you just tuning into my blog, I am currently going back to school to pursue a new career}! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitsPMt6WNjnrheuBVpqK2sRlisp0P3BufAAVsyeBEDOKJQ8gtFJH875x62C0Mgdmkw5q1E5J6S2bXPCYZIU43rjVqOFp7Uc8jS8g1NiEQeb1AYRm3kLFdlJ-yZUN05lECsH_fWX9Y6Pp2c/s1600/3607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitsPMt6WNjnrheuBVpqK2sRlisp0P3BufAAVsyeBEDOKJQ8gtFJH875x62C0Mgdmkw5q1E5J6S2bXPCYZIU43rjVqOFp7Uc8jS8g1NiEQeb1AYRm3kLFdlJ-yZUN05lECsH_fWX9Y6Pp2c/s400/3607.jpg" /></a><br />
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Now in other more exciting news, we FINALLY finished up our kitchen cabinet project! I know, that project started last November 2011, where we took down the cabinet faces, sanded and primed them...but then it kind of stayed in that state until recently. So yes, we had been living with OPEN shelving {unintentionally of course} for 7 months!!! Well after my finals week, you can imagine how excited I was to nip this project up in the bud! :) I would show you how they turned out in its entirety, but we are still tweaking the kitchen space, so in the meanwhile, I thought I'd give you a small sneak peek of our newly white painted cabinets!!! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZP2_xfPC81nEfPwsLeWvmkI6EnqCpRvRh-n2sLgRxE9OIeAajb4NzcewhHmT1HKiJF2l4GGa4nVyBrDZ6cYxK2Y9-QFhsEsnz-Q9YRujFOh-MTXHMNdVMSFdoZ9EVUUySdJCVZVKHn33y/s1600/3608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZP2_xfPC81nEfPwsLeWvmkI6EnqCpRvRh-n2sLgRxE9OIeAajb4NzcewhHmT1HKiJF2l4GGa4nVyBrDZ6cYxK2Y9-QFhsEsnz-Q9YRujFOh-MTXHMNdVMSFdoZ9EVUUySdJCVZVKHn33y/s400/3608.jpg" /></a><br />
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This is a side view to the end of the upper cabinets. If you want to see what they looked like before, "<a href="http://acozycottageinthecity.blogspot.com/2011/11/weekend-in-review.html" target="_blank">click here</a>." Although we purchased the knobs and pulls months ago - we had to wait to install them until after we finished painting the cabinets , and I am sooo excited at how they turned out! You'll see what I mean when I post pictures of all the finished cabinets once the last of our "kitchen tweaking" is done. My style is somewhat of a mixture of rustic meets elegance (think industrial "tolix dining chairs" with glass chandeliers), so I'm always pairing unexpected things together. I hope to finish up the kitchen sooner rather than later, so do stay tuned for that. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BnWQ-kMWN-cPA-oKqALtPQaFj2zjImPU_2HedR-_cU6jZTMVdSGwWiX7ZsgRP8DO5OyxCeFV-t07xCnV-wRr6hNU0XsLFVh-QBAFLE_viMG-Exd-oH2ERqpM6kmxjB1zVUiMSTSr9L2m/s1600/3640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BnWQ-kMWN-cPA-oKqALtPQaFj2zjImPU_2HedR-_cU6jZTMVdSGwWiX7ZsgRP8DO5OyxCeFV-t07xCnV-wRr6hNU0XsLFVh-QBAFLE_viMG-Exd-oH2ERqpM6kmxjB1zVUiMSTSr9L2m/s400/3640.jpg" /></a><br />
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Now on another note, I am also excited to say that we FINALLY installed new windows!!! They are single hung white vinyl windows that have 6 grids on the top. Please excuse the dark and blurry photo, since the lighting the day I took this photo was a little horrendous. Also, please don't mind the mess and temporary IKEA drapes as this room is currently our "work space" until all of our DIY projects get done. If you want an idea of what the window looks like from the outside, look at the picture below. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7O6gIrwBHDqnH6lIZJkw6tJEhN6cNwvxS2RwXClkdBeelimWBOIobtfQzmjlkR11ghVi8AOL3_u4jKQM_M479u4uDApxJb2CUdfCkc1RxjsBRR3rKWCkY6YCnfJ2P1UcyyuGI9YPBfi_/s1600/2515closeanglefacade.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7O6gIrwBHDqnH6lIZJkw6tJEhN6cNwvxS2RwXClkdBeelimWBOIobtfQzmjlkR11ghVi8AOL3_u4jKQM_M479u4uDApxJb2CUdfCkc1RxjsBRR3rKWCkY6YCnfJ2P1UcyyuGI9YPBfi_/s400/2515closeanglefacade.jpeg" /></a><br />
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Please note, that this is not our home - but just a picture I found via google.com. But our front windows are very similar to this house. We are still in the midst of working out our "exterior curb appeal," so I shall keep you posted as projects resume and are completed in that department.<br />
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Well my dear friends, that is all for now. Thank you all so much for continuing to visit my blog and for leaving such kind comments - I truly appreciate each and every one. I especially want to thank you for the thoughtful comments left on my last post, all of your sweet friendships and kind words mean so very much to me! Now that I have a little more time to spare, I look forward to catching up on all of your wonderful blogs! Until next time, have a lovely day! <br />
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Hugs,<br />
Jessie<br />
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Linking with Kathleen at:<br />
<a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><br />
<img border="0" src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/dividers%20buttons%20etc/Faded-Charm-150.png" border="0" /></a><br />
</center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-25397998600219439132012-05-07T09:00:00.001-07:002012-05-11T10:57:22.041-07:00Dad, Motherhood & everything else in between...<font size="3"><p align="justify">Hello dear friends! I know it's been a short while since I've last posted, and even though it has only been a few weeks - it feels like much longer! I guess because so many things are going on at the moment... Those of you who have been following my blog know that my father fell ill last fall, and things have been "different" since then. It's hard to imagine my dad in the current state that he is in, because I've always remembered him to be such a strong and resilient individual... </p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TAQSSLYLbIy9Mq7evrcAj8Mi1IHbSthE2otO7wLl9fsm9uByWKfRAf9fxspF93VUhptDtXaQzDInccvtVH_Wi-cy6ay9S87VLjFpAd_-eyPbN8fXoLIF_kYwoLwgPyNR0fRbGdrW9y47/s1600/DadMe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="327" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TAQSSLYLbIy9Mq7evrcAj8Mi1IHbSthE2otO7wLl9fsm9uByWKfRAf9fxspF93VUhptDtXaQzDInccvtVH_Wi-cy6ay9S87VLjFpAd_-eyPbN8fXoLIF_kYwoLwgPyNR0fRbGdrW9y47/s400/DadMe.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">And lately I've been having these "dreams" about my dad, and truthfully, I'm a little frightened by them... Are these dreams "signs" of something "in particular" about to happen?!?! Maybe that's a little far fetched or melodramatic...but I can't help but think that way! Thinking about my dad growing up, ALWAYS brings a smile to my face. I can only hope that I can be as good as a role model to my children, as he was to me. Even as I write this, I tear up just thinking about the possible thought of losing him. So I'm going to move on to more cheerful thoughts. :) {the pic above is of my dad & I taken in 1980}! </p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYnfJZVVcwzpC6jXwMw_S2wkcFQOJsicmSoIDcrrLsMLPBYc5un6CTf_TVZpzS2Geyn2JJmO6xKuz3N-11rrblx4BvIQxySU-shKtd01U0HEAU8DOR3eVfGL9FNIyc1j7X9ixY5kbm-ugY/s1600/3532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYnfJZVVcwzpC6jXwMw_S2wkcFQOJsicmSoIDcrrLsMLPBYc5un6CTf_TVZpzS2Geyn2JJmO6xKuz3N-11rrblx4BvIQxySU-shKtd01U0HEAU8DOR3eVfGL9FNIyc1j7X9ixY5kbm-ugY/s400/3532.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">So on another note, the other day, my boys were craving a banana split. After doing a little research, I came across this local Pharmacy Soda Shoppe that had some stellar ratings for their ice cream, shakes & malts. I can't tell you how much fun it was to sit in a quaint little shop like that in the middle of the city! It was like walking into a "time warp" of sorts! lol On the outside, you probably would drive right past it, but the minute you walk in, it feels like small town set in the "1950's" with a pharmacy on one side, and on soda shoppe on the other side! Anyway, my kids really enjoyed sharing this sweet treat on a very warm spring day. :)</p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs90WPuvP9XitEASQYZ7Xa_S-MIiuKxaAcTGSlUB6gBkzE6hmyi9X5Tql74fj0S4f0cleYu6GTc43PKeXBrvAmd8ElQsq5zDqIZpjdobjsGJcBGpD0VdtrPhyWlKtEsNS6h7KQJ5dhyphenhyphenaVW/s1600/3535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs90WPuvP9XitEASQYZ7Xa_S-MIiuKxaAcTGSlUB6gBkzE6hmyi9X5Tql74fj0S4f0cleYu6GTc43PKeXBrvAmd8ElQsq5zDqIZpjdobjsGJcBGpD0VdtrPhyWlKtEsNS6h7KQJ5dhyphenhyphenaVW/s400/3535.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">As for me, well I probably could have done without all the sugar, but I caved in and had a coffee shake...YUM! :) Doesn't that look soooo good?!?! Let me tell you, it sure was! :) As I sat there watching my kids, I started thinking about how time is just going by so quickly! Just 6 years ago, my eldest was still in grade school. Here is a picture I found of us taken on Mother's Day 2006.</p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSI22Nuxum7yy8mJ6n5xxZzbRJI55wsNhj4tWhkfuhckwNGuggZxxVi15vcPxDvWiWBRXjjXHEGu-gAbjV7bTTCDehPlU26xu1YxWEcJz9JEsRbxp2bAXUcce8sXwxTe2-6Sl8Jqosw1Z/s1600/429865_3517990511243_1316411587_33408235_1833963150_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="299" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSI22Nuxum7yy8mJ6n5xxZzbRJI55wsNhj4tWhkfuhckwNGuggZxxVi15vcPxDvWiWBRXjjXHEGu-gAbjV7bTTCDehPlU26xu1YxWEcJz9JEsRbxp2bAXUcce8sXwxTe2-6Sl8Jqosw1Z/s400/429865_3517990511243_1316411587_33408235_1833963150_n.jpeg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">My eldest has always had the waviest hair, ever! He takes after both my dad and I in that department! :) Then as I started sifting through some more photos, I found one of my youngest child taken when he was just 4 days old! It's hard to imagine them being that small...I sometimes wish I could travel back in time to hold him when he was that little! Where did the time go?!?!</p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbhesTd-FKACPTPP9QM35MBaUc76GMMmfDlT41uH_CPFA5mX-aqI1o3mUHaQ_HAosKnz4PIBAvlsiJDheLr-XVdORjCo7nzSrx7NqTCva6v3X3FjSfm-9h_cBkBuTySaGK2J8ggqGAgdm/s1600/360_1046525966174_1316411587_30132712_9261_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="210" width="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbhesTd-FKACPTPP9QM35MBaUc76GMMmfDlT41uH_CPFA5mX-aqI1o3mUHaQ_HAosKnz4PIBAvlsiJDheLr-XVdORjCo7nzSrx7NqTCva6v3X3FjSfm-9h_cBkBuTySaGK2J8ggqGAgdm/s400/360_1046525966174_1316411587_30132712_9261_n.jpeg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">Nowadays, I have to catch my breath at times trying to keep up with both my teenager and preschooler! These guys sure keep me on my toes - but I do LOVE them very much! :) And even though they are 11 years apart, I'm lucky that these two dote on each other! </p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFF-EcqaQjteVuNWcFsCRdVcuQ-c91ildz7k-lpJemfIMJ_HXngfoXql9eZ9K3GuY9YSsaqsk18NU5YP7kCyX2lve_UOxogb5LC71YWUkDtoX_qVi_dMmq7Ohi79CY4HfLrVScjzdS-SCM/s1600/3531FB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFF-EcqaQjteVuNWcFsCRdVcuQ-c91ildz7k-lpJemfIMJ_HXngfoXql9eZ9K3GuY9YSsaqsk18NU5YP7kCyX2lve_UOxogb5LC71YWUkDtoX_qVi_dMmq7Ohi79CY4HfLrVScjzdS-SCM/s400/3531FB.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">I suppose as another Mother's Day fast approaches, I often reflect on motherhood throughout the years. I can only hope that I'm doing a great job at it! :) Because any mom can tell you that being a parent is one of the toughest, yet most rewarding jobs out there! Speaking of Mother's Day, what do you all have planned next weekend? As for me, well next weekend we will be getting our NEW WINDOWS installed! Woohoo! More on that later! My hubby, kiddos and I have also been <strike>working on our yard</strike> trying to make our front and backyard decent! :) I'll be posting more about that too, so stay tuned. Until next time, I hope you all enjoy your day! And thank you for continuing to drop by my page to leave me your thoughts and comments, I always appreciate your visits!</p><br />
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<center>Hugs,<br />
Jessie<br />
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<center>Linking up with Beverly's "Mother's Day" Pink Saturday @<a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/">How Sweet the Sound</a></center>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5782000723415583178.post-47128729463575281852012-04-12T19:30:00.000-07:002012-04-12T19:47:51.862-07:00Spring Beauty...and what I've been up to lately!!!<font size="3"><p align="justify">Hello dear friends! I know it's been a long while since I've last posted, but I came across some road bumps along the way. Specifically, the hard drive on my computer completely CRASHED! I knew my MacBook Pro was running a little slow, but I was rather ignoring the "symptoms" of backing up all of my info as well as replacing my hard drive before it completely...well...crashed! All of my vital info, including pictures of the kids, amongst other important documents - were GONE! :( To make a very long, complicated, and a rather expensive story short, today is the first day that I finally have a working computer on hand! I can't wait to catch up on all of your lovely blogs this weekend!!! :) I seriously had "blogger withdrawals" since I was out of a computer for that long! :( </p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHo2bnwTgrLLaiwcWpq-nNz8-pk2_tJRJSqj-GtESte-neS3EA4OzejtBRHyKlWdkBRCMuBag9Klsf3t5poN62J_YCc5AYOfwtcM__BBbaQXRcBAR5w1tFjlQHQPYJggBEpQ20F0c0xWO/s1600/3509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHo2bnwTgrLLaiwcWpq-nNz8-pk2_tJRJSqj-GtESte-neS3EA4OzejtBRHyKlWdkBRCMuBag9Klsf3t5poN62J_YCc5AYOfwtcM__BBbaQXRcBAR5w1tFjlQHQPYJggBEpQ20F0c0xWO/s400/3509.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">On a lighter note, I hope everyone had a very nice Easter / Passover Holiday! I can't believe the spring season is finally here!!! :) This is the first "Spring" in our home since we moved in last summer, so I'm quite excited about it! Since we plan to renovate the front part of our home between now and the next year or so, I decided to put a halt on any "landscaping projects" for now. Thus I've decided to do some "container gardening" instead. It rained on and off yesterday, but that didn't stop me from planting these pretty hydrangeas that were given to me as an Easter {and "housewarming"} gift from my mother. They were partially pink when they were given to me, but now they are a bluish purple hue. I just love that about hydrangeas! :) </p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAt_iL7hbtyUeZXFRYcp6-wuuD_9xtaQIiFS6s4c9LnP_L3FAHpPb_yM-AZZOLNwnHB9vPV7mlVFf1NXjVUhaCinUXVuyPlByvywpnMjoGGsdh0A4UP65S8GLmauT8SpcS9NqMERDTenCG/s1600/3507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAt_iL7hbtyUeZXFRYcp6-wuuD_9xtaQIiFS6s4c9LnP_L3FAHpPb_yM-AZZOLNwnHB9vPV7mlVFf1NXjVUhaCinUXVuyPlByvywpnMjoGGsdh0A4UP65S8GLmauT8SpcS9NqMERDTenCG/s400/3507.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">These little lovelies are now sitting on our front porch, which instantly adds curb appeal. And let me tell you...we are in dire need of some of that right now! I was joking with my hubby telling him that our neighbors are probably wondering why it {the front part of our house} looks a little "chaotic" right now. But due to a very strict budget, our fixer upper projects will continuously be a work in progress. I have some more exciting changes coming up ahead, but more on that later! :) </p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmInfZuV8dLkYhqLmgrVq_CJBAEQNEcN1FpCsR8gaJKB4NixtVU6jRvWGUx_3Mz8-jp5kM0Z1Zks1R4diz4RjlEAkpRRgvUZoFK8Kv1My8GREGZb74aDLGTuHn8xvI0Mt99ksrBGra8y7/s1600/3512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmInfZuV8dLkYhqLmgrVq_CJBAEQNEcN1FpCsR8gaJKB4NixtVU6jRvWGUx_3Mz8-jp5kM0Z1Zks1R4diz4RjlEAkpRRgvUZoFK8Kv1My8GREGZb74aDLGTuHn8xvI0Mt99ksrBGra8y7/s400/3512.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">In other exciting news, I thought I'd let you all in on what I have been up to lately. At first I was hesitant to divulge what my new venture was exactly about, as I still wasn't quite sure if it would work out in the long run. But it's been a few months, and I feel confident about my future plans! ....so I'll just come right out and say it! I am currently going back to school to pursue a dream of mine!!! I'm preparing to apply to a specific program, and although it's been a completely hectic, busy, stressful experience...it's been an extremely positive, fulfilling, and empowering one too. I say "empowering" only because I tend to constantly compare myself to other people, and often feel that I'm "too old" or feel that I've just been away too long. But...I'm doing very well!!! And the feeling that I get when I'm attending lectures and labs, just reinforces where my true passions lie. I won't exactly say {just yet} what program that I'm prepping for (when I get closer to my goal, I just might}...but just that it's in the medical field. So please stay tuned for my blog posts about what I have been working on in that respect too! :)</p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEuyrnzsoO6gC8PSRqeL31tDfzbP_-JiFgst8eRZWW9JgK3zU_ay1v25emcfoFshjOKKasnqzSdK9UFaUFs4FqwHFoLwwA1q-Dw4KaQahNvW-MPaz0DtqQ4yzro23sUgcmRlzFMvawYtBW/s1600/3506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEuyrnzsoO6gC8PSRqeL31tDfzbP_-JiFgst8eRZWW9JgK3zU_ay1v25emcfoFshjOKKasnqzSdK9UFaUFs4FqwHFoLwwA1q-Dw4KaQahNvW-MPaz0DtqQ4yzro23sUgcmRlzFMvawYtBW/s400/3506.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<p align="justify">On a last note, if it all works out at the end of the month, I will be attending <a href="http://remnantsofthepast.com/" target="_blank">"Remnants of the Past"</a> this June!!! Woohoo!!! :) I was supposed to go last year {April 2011}, but it didn't work out at the last minute due to scheduling conflicts. So hopefully if my "time management" pans out this year, I will be attending this amazing event for the first time!!! :) Oh, and I was also able to visit my sweet friend's booth {Melinda of <a href="http://www.alabasterrosedesigns.com/" target="_blank">Alabaster Rose Designs</a>} at <a href="http://www.countryroadsantiques.com/" target="_blank">Country Roads Antiques</a> two weekends ago! If you aren't already a follower of her blog - please do visit and click on that "follow button!" :) Melinda is one of my most talented blogger friends on here, and her booth was just beautiful! I can't wait to share with you some of the the lovely vintage items that I purchased from her!!! So if you live in Southern Cali, you MUST visit "Old Towne Orange" and take a stroll through all of their beautiful antique shops {if you haven't already}, including <a href="http://www.countryroadsantiques.com/" target="_blank">Country Roads Antiques</a>! I promise it will not disappoint! Even my hubby was impressed with all of the beautiful vintage treasures there!</p><br />
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<p align="justify">Well my dear friends, I hope you are all enjoying the beauty of the Spring Season! I also want to thank you all for continuing to visit my page and leaving such kind comments even though I haven't been able to visit as much as I'd like to lately. I have started to subscribe to many of your blogs, so even though I'm not always able to visit often, I will be enjoying your posts!!! But now that my computer is up and running, I do look forward to catching up on all of your beautiful blogs this weekend - and so wishing you all a most lovely one!!! Until next time, do take care! :) </p><br />
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<center>Hugs,<br />
Jessie</center><br />
</font>A Cozy Cottage in the Cityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14682860006721913633noreply@blogger.com30