tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-97921372024-03-12T22:53:58.191-04:00thoughts from along the broken road...personal observations inspired by my life and the world around me. my own revelations and thoughts. snippets of wisdom. random insanity. joy. gratitude. silliness. attempts to be insightful...or not so much. laughter and tears. ME.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.comBlogger4182125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-62309094939227218562020-12-26T06:00:00.137-05:002021-01-21T15:01:30.649-05:00Just Read: 2021 Reading Challenge<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0l7gGD4ooEk/X8vivtWEuaI/AAAAAAAD7Ok/VGkxQKSh93YBf4rWSuAL32QSq5d17en6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/Untitled%2B%25285%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0l7gGD4ooEk/X8vivtWEuaI/AAAAAAAD7Ok/VGkxQKSh93YBf4rWSuAL32QSq5d17en6wCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h334/Untitled%2B%25285%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />After looking at over a dozen reading challenges posted online and feeling entirely uninspired, in 2019, I decided I would create my own with categories that don't feel impossible and that could easily be recycled from one year to the next, tweaking occasionally for variety, if I so choose. More importantly, the category prompts w<span style="font-size: 14.08px;">on't pigeonhole you into reading the one book that fits but is a book in which you have zero interest, but instead are broad or vague enough to apply to books across a wide spectrum of reading interests. </span>And so was born my (newly renamed for 2021!) reading challenge.</span><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">It has far more categories than I will likely ever get to in a single year--there are 100 now and that is officially where I am capping it--but my goal is to check off as many as I can while letting the category prompts inspire the books I choose. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">I thought I'd share my list with any of my other reader friends who might be interested but haven't found a reading challenge that spoke to them yet--and 2020 was the first year that several people decided to join me!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"> I dare say we had a blast with it, comparing book selections to fill a category and cheering each other on.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">I'm not big on rules when it comes to reading, so we'll keep it simple:</span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"></blockquote><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">**While a single book will certainly apply to more than one category prompt, each book can only be used to fill one category.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">**Choose carefully, because once you've placed a book, there's no changing your selection! (I wait to make my final decision until after I have finished reading the book in most cases, to make sure that I know exactly which remaining category prompts will apply. Pro tip: Use the applicable category prompt you believe will prove to be the most difficult to fill, saving the easier ones until the end, as prompts fill up.)</span><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14.08px;">**Category prompt interpretation is up to the person doing the reading. If the fit makes sense to you, you don't need my permission. No one is keeping score. Just let yourself be inspired!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px;">**100 category prompts is a lot, right? The goal isn't to get to all of them--but yay for you, if you do! Rather, it's to get inspired to read with a little bonus challenge of trying to fill as many category prompts as you can. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px;"><span style="font-size: 14.08px;">Read as many or as few books as your personal reading style allows. There is no minimum requirement for you to participate and share what you read! The goal is to read as many books as </span><i style="font-size: 14.08px;">you </i><span style="font-size: 14.08px;">can and to be inspired by the prompts to choose books that appeal to </span><i style="font-size: 14.08px;">your </i><span style="font-size: 14.08px;">reading taste. No one is keeping score of how many you read or judging the books you enjoy. The point is...get this...JUST READ. (Novel idea, yes? And no, I am not sorry about the pun.) </span>And by sharing and following the hashtag, maybe you'll find new books you'll want to read, meet a new book-loving friend, or get into a good discussion about books.</span></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">**There is no minimum page requirement for a book to qualify. If it's a book and you finished it in 2021, it counts.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px;">**There is also no deadline to start! Jump in whenever, look over the books you've finished already for 2021, apply them to the categories that fit, share them with us on social media if you like, and join in the fun!</span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div> </div></blockquote><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">Share what you read and which prompt you applied on Instagram and/or Facebook using<b><span style="color: #cc0000;"> #JustRead2021Challenge</span></b>. </span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">Happy reading!</span><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><ol><li>A book with several short stories or novellas</li><li>The first book in a new-to-you series</li><li>A book from a series you've already started</li><li>The newest book from a series</li><li>A book that's part of a trilogy</li><li>A book that is at least 10th in its series</li><li>A book with 500 or more pages</li><li>A book with 150 pages or less</li><li>A book published before 1990</li><li>A book you've been meaning to read for at least ten years</li><li>A book published in 2020 or 2021</li><li>A book someone else raved about or recommended</li><li>A book you've been really anticipating</li><li>A book you're not sure you'll like but want to try anyway</li><li>A book you picked up on a whim</li><li>A book you wanted to read last year but didn't get to</li><li>A library book</li><li>A book you already own</li><li>A physical book</li><li>An e-book</li><li>A book geared toward children, teens or young adults</li><li>A mystery or thriller</li><li>A memoir or autobiography</li><li>A book that is historical fiction</li><li>A book that takes place during contemporary times</li><li>A non-fiction book</li><li>A book set between 1900 and 1940</li><li>A book set in your time zone</li><li>A new-to-you author</li><li>An author you've been meaning to read more by</li><li>A longtime favorite author</li><li>Written by a woman</li><li>Written by a man</li><li>Written by an author who is not white</li><li>Written by two or more authors</li><li>A book with a title or author that is alliterative</li><li>A book you hope helps you to learn or grow</li><li>A book that teaches you a lesson</li><li>A book that is pure brain candy</li><li>A book with a one-word title</li><li>A book with a two-word title</li><li>A book with a four-word title</li><li>A book with red on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with orange on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with yellow on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with green on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with blue on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with white on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with black on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with a TITLE containing a color not listed above</li><li>A book with clothing on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with food on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with a beverage on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with a utensil, weapon, or tool on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with a season in the title</li><li>A book with a holiday as a theme or in the title</li><li>A book with a place in the title</li><li>A title that mentions something found in nature</li><li>A book with some form of water on the cover or in the title</li><li>A title that mentions some form of weather</li><li>A book where the title or the cover includes something you find in the sky</li><li>A book that has a day of the week in the title</li><li>A title with a number in it</li><li>A book with a question mark in the title</li><li>A title that includes an animal</li><li>A book with a dog or cat on the cover</li><li>A book with any animal that is NOT a dog or cat on the cover</li><li>A title that includes a person's name</li><li>A book with a person on the cover</li><li>A book with a body part on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with ONLY words on the cover</li><li>A book with a cover that makes you want to read it</li><li>A book that takes place in a different country</li><li>A title that starts with the word 'a' or 'an'</li><li>A title that starts with the word 'the'</li><li>A title with the word 'and' or 'or' </li><li>A book with a type of building on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with a window or a door on the cover</li><li>A book with a piece of furniture on the cover</li><li>A book with a type of transportation on the cover</li><li>A title with a directional reference (north, down, left, under, etc)</li><li>A title that mentions sound in some way</li><li>A title that mentions time in some way</li><li>A title that includes an action or activity</li><li>A title that mentions an emotion or feeling</li><li>A book with something related to reading on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book that references music on the cover or in the title</li><li>A female leading character</li><li>A male leading character</li><li>A title that references a profession</li><li>A book with a title or author that includes the name of a month</li><li>A book with a title that made you want to read it</li><li>A title that references royalty/nobility</li><li>A title with a familial connection in it</li><li>A book you expect to make you think</li><li>A book you expect will make you laugh</li><li>A book of your choice</li><li>Author whose first or last name contains exactly four letters</li><li>A book with flowers on the cover or in the title</li><li>A book with more than one storyline from different time periods</li></ol><div><br /></div></span></div></div></div></div>~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-45386456750022442182020-01-01T11:48:00.003-05:002020-12-10T11:44:59.078-05:002020 Personal Reading Challenge<span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">After looking at over a dozen reading challenges posted online and feeling entirely uninspired, in 2019, I decided I would create my own with categories that don't feel impossible and that could easily be recycled from one year to the next with very little tweaking, if I so choose. It has far more categories than I will likely ever get to in a single year but my goal is to check off as many as I can. While a single book will certainly apply to more than one line, I intend to limit myself to choosing just one per book. I thought I'd share my list with any of my other reader friends who might be interested but hasn't found a reading challenge that spoke to them yet. Feel free to play along, and if you wish, share what you read and which prompt you applied on Instagram using #TBR2020ReadingChallenge. Happy reading!</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with several short stories or novellas</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">The first book in a new-to-you series</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book from a series you've already started</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">The newest book from a series</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book that's part of a trilogy</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with 500 or more pages</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with 100 pages or less</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book published in the 90s</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book you've been meaning to read for at least ten years</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book published in 2019 or 2020</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book someone else raved about</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book you've been really anticipating</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book you're not sure you'll like but want to try anyway</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book you picked up on a whim</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book you wanted to read last year but didn't get to</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A library book</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book you already own</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A physical book</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">An e-book</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book geared toward children or teens</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A cozy mystery</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A memoir</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book that is historical fiction</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book that takes place during contemporary times</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A non-fiction book</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.08px;">A genre or a book set in a time period you don't typically read</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A new-to-you author</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">An author you've been meaning to read more by</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A longtime favorite author</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book written by a woman</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book written by a man</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book written by two or more authors</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a title or author that is alliterative</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book you hope helps you to learn or grow</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book that teaches you a lesson</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book that is pure brain candy</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a one-word title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a two-word title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with at least six words in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with red on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with orange on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with yellow on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with green on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with blue on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with white on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with black on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a title containing a color not listed above</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with clothing on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with food on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a season in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a holiday as a theme or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a place in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a title that mentions something found in nature</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book that has a day of the week in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a number in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with an apostrophe in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with an animal on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a person's name in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a person on the cover</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with only words on the cover</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a cover that makes you want to read the book</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book that takes place in a different country</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a title that starts with the word 'a' or 'an'</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a title that starts with the word 'the'</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a type of building on the cover or in the title</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a window or a door on the cover</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.08px;">A book with a title that mentions time in some way</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a female leading character</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;">A book with a male leading character</span><div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.08px;">A book with a title that includes the name of a month</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif;">A book with a title that made you want to read it</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif;">A book that references royalty in the title</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif;">A book you expect to make you think</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.08px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif;">A book you expect will make you laugh</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: trebuchet, "trebuchet ms", arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.08px;">A book of your choice</span></span></span>
</div>
~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-56405505427384146122019-01-03T22:17:00.000-05:002019-05-07T13:48:35.821-04:002019 Personal Reading ChallengeAfter looking at over a dozen reading challenges posted online and feeling entirely uninspired, I decided I would create my own with categories that don't feel impossible and that could easily be recycled from one year to the next with very little tweaking, if I so choose. It has far more categories than I will likely ever get to in a single year but my goal is to check off as many as I can. While a single book will certainly apply to more than one line, I intend to limit myself to choosing just one per book. I thought I'd share my list with any of my other reader friends who might be interested but hasn't found a reading challenge that spoke to them yet. Feel free to play along. Happy reading!<br />
<br />
A book with several short stories or novellas<br />
The first book in a new-to-you series<br />
A book from a series you've already started<br />
The newest book from a series<br />
A book that's part of a trilogy<br />
A book with 500 or more pages<br />
A book with 100 pages or less<br />
A book published in the 90s<br />
A book you've been meaning to read for at least ten years<br />
A book published in 2018 or 2019<br />
A book someone else raved about<br />
A book you've been really anticipating<br />
A book you're not sure you'll like but want to try anyway<br />
A book you picked up on a whim<br />
A book you wanted to read last year but didn't get to<br />
A library book<br />
A book you already own<br />
A physical book<br />
An e-book<br />
A book geared toward children or teens<br />
A cozy mystery<br />
A memoir<br />
A book that is historical fiction<br />
A book that takes place during contemporary times<br />
A non-fiction book<br />
A genre you don't typically read<br />
A new-to-you author<br />
An author you've been meaning to read more by<br />
A longtime favorite author<br />
A book written by a woman<br />
A book written by a man<br />
A book written by two or more authors<br />
A book with a title or author that is alliterative<br />
A book you hope helps you to learn or grow<br />
A book that teaches you a lesson<br />
A book that is pure brain candy<br />
A book with a one-word title<br />
A book with a two-word title<br />
A book with at least six words in the title<br />
A book with red on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with orange on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with yellow on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with green on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with blue on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with white on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with black on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with a title containing a color not listed above<br />
A book with clothing on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with food on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with a season in the title<br />
A book with a holiday as a theme or in the title<br />
A book with a place in the title<br />
A book with a title that mentions something found in nature<br />
A book that has a day of the week in the title<br />
A book with a number in the title<br />
A book with an apostrophe in the title<br />
A book with an animal on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with a person's name in the title<br />
A book with a person on the cover<br />
A book with only words on the cover<br />
A book with a cover that makes you want to read the book<br />
A book that takes place in a different country<br />
A book with a title that starts with the word 'a' or 'an'<br />
A book with a title that starts with the word 'the'<br />
A book with a type of building on the cover or in the title<br />
A book with a window or a door on the cover<br />
A book with a title that references a time of day<br />
A book with a female leading character<br />
A book with a male leading character<br />
A book of your choice<br />
~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-8667233118928587832016-08-05T11:45:00.001-04:002016-08-05T11:45:09.080-04:00In recollection.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WXHhA8kpi8s/To-MRt4VPjI/AAAAAAACwT4/-S1Swzv_yOch18kdK_FCMow-T0tEWk_QgCPcB/s1600/JoshDawn_Summer82.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WXHhA8kpi8s/To-MRt4VPjI/AAAAAAACwT4/-S1Swzv_yOch18kdK_FCMow-T0tEWk_QgCPcB/s640/JoshDawn_Summer82.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I was feeling nostalgic this morning and went hunting for a photo to share when I happened upon this one. I can tell you that it's 1982. I am almost six and my brother was three and a half. It's roughly this very time of year. I can tell you that my Gramp built that stone wall (and many many more like it all over the Chippen's Hill area of Bristol, CT, when he was a young man working for Bristol Nurseries). I have so much nostalgia about those stone walls, with their seemingly haphazard personalities, yet somehow standing the test of time and New England winters. Modern stone wall construction, while more elegant in its neat assembly, does not even come close to the satisfaction I get from admiring a stone wall a century old. I can tell you that my Gram and Gramp owned three acres of property, and I ran and played and explored every inch of it. I haven't been there in more than fifteen years, but I can still close my eyes and navigate it perfectly in my memory. Every last fruit tree and dip in the ground and jagged property line and rock poking through the grass. I can tell you, by the shadows, that it was late morning and the dew on the lawn had dried (but not after we tracked wet footprints through Gram's kitchen…and were promptly ushered back outside). The air was changing from the early morning green dampness to that crisp golden brown of grass drying in the heat of the summer sunshine. It was starting to get that heaviness, pressing down on early August with the arrival of the proverbial "dog days of summer." What I cannot tell you? Is what, on God's green earth, we were doing when my Gramp stealthily froze this moment of my childhood. Kids are weird.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-81699467310998730932016-04-21T19:56:00.001-04:002016-04-22T08:58:09.454-04:00This Week on My TV: April 21, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/K-nx_S_01jijuec8QjhyXdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="196" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Njq-L_2Wx6M/UowC5Qoc34I/AAAAAAAC1oI/LnNXLLkKMbk/s288/TVCollage.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Downton Abbey, season 5</i>)</span> Violet: <i>Principles are like prayers. Noble, of course, but awkward at a party.</i> -- Violet: <i>There's nothing simpler than avoiding people you don't like. Avoiding one's friends, that's the real test.</i> -- Daisy: <i>I was rubbish at numbers at school.</i> Mrs Patmore: <i>Well, all the best people were rubbish at numbers at school.</i> ... I concur. -- Something I have noted: beware of the smokers. It seems like all the troublemakers smoke. -- What a miserable, conniving little man, Spratt is! -- I am not at all sad that Miss Bunting is gone. Thank the Lord Tom didn't end up with her. The aristocracy may be on shaky ground, but her rudeness is appalling. I like to think that Tom is the "man of the future," blending the best of both worlds. -- I kind of loved how everyone stood when the king spoke, even though they were only listening on the radio. -- Well, now. I did *not* expect that Mary, of all people, would have herself a rendezvous! How bold and controversial! -- Tom: <i>You know you're much nicer than a lot of people realize.</i> Mary: <i>Not always.</i> ... This is why I love Tom and I love Mary. Tom is sincere and kind. And Mary knows who she is and how she is, good qualities and those less so. She certainly doesn't pretend she isn't who she is or make excuses. Sometimes, she's just not nice. Aren't we all. -- I miss the Anna and Bates that were in love. Their story started out so sweet and hopeful, and they haven't had an easy moment since they said their vows. I really wasn't much on board with the investigation and imprisonment of Anna, after all the time we spent dealing with Bates in prison for the murder of his first wife. Why do you hate Anna and Bates, Julian Fellowes? -- Mrs Patmore: <i>We should always be polite to people who are kind. There's not much of it about.</i> -- I wept when Edith took Marigold from the Drewes. And I don't know if they were tears of joy for Edith or of sorrow for Mrs Drewe. -- Thing I never would have predicted: Violet expressing sadness about possibly losing Isobel as her friend and confidante, should Isobel marry. Of course she may not need to worry about that, given what awful human beings Lord Merton's sons happen to be. Get thee with the doc, Isobel. That's what I have to say. -- There was even more weeping over Isis, when Robert and Cora put her on the bed between them during her final hours. --I am amused that Robert is so set against the grandchildren calling him 'Donk', when everyone seems completely at home calling Rose's father 'Shrimpie'. -- Rose finally feels like she has a point in this show that isn't merely to fill the gaping hole left by Sybil. I like who she's becoming. -- Speaking of Rose, they sure were fond of botanical names! Violet. Rose. Marigold. Daisy. Ivy. -- Total seal of approval on Mary's haircut! -- I raise an eyebrow at Robert's extreme jealousy and silent treatment surrounding that whole Mr Bricker-Cora incident. Have you forgotten how you dallied with Jane, the maid, while Cora lay dying from Spanish Flu?? Because I haven't, mister. I was amused by the line Cora dropped to return Robert to her bed from his sulking in his dressing room. Even though he can be a real dunce at time, I think Robert has enough integrity that he'd feel too guilty looking in the mirror if he pretended he'd never been in questionable circumstances himself. -- I really, really tried to get into the Violet and Prince Kuragin love story, but it just didn't work for me. -- I often lament the over saturation of information we experience in today's hyper-connected world, but good grief. It took a year for Edith to get final confirmation that Gregson had died. That certainly wasn't optimal either. -- Say what you will about Mary, but there are far more awful women associated with the family. Lady Flintshire, for one. And she may be the worst of them all, pulling out every stop she can think of to spoil her daughter's wedding. -- If I wept over Isis and Edith taking Marigold from the Drewes, I outright sobbed when Robert unveiled the tribute he did for Mrs Patmore's nephew, in lieu of being able to memorialize him on the monument. -- It *is* nice to see Edith actually happy. She is certainly blossoming as Marigold's mother. -- Every time I expect stodgy, clinging to the old ways Robert to handle a sensitive situation callously, he comes through with surprising calm compassion. First with Mary and Mr Pamuk in the early days, and now with Edith, as he tells her he accepts her daughter into the family. -- I favored Charles Blake over Lord Gillingham, but forget those two clowns. Mary must have Henry Talbot! (Matthew Goode, you are a delight, and I need you to appear in the final season, please.) -- I'm going to refuse to acknowledge any of this "Tom and Sybbie go to America" nonsense, and spend my final thought squeee-ing that Mrs Hughes and Mr Carson just got engaged! And then my heart exploded. -- p.s. I heart Matthew Goode.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Blacklist</i><i>, 3x18 Mr Solomon (The Conclusion)</i>)</span> Who is that guy talking to Solomon, how did he know Liz escaped and how is he tracking her?? -- There's something you don't see every day. Very pregnant bride hanging out of the window of an old Buick, shooting. Also, Aram's dad isn't getting his car back. -- Mr Kaplan is...not pleased with Red. -- Red almost never looks scared. The fact that he does now? Terrifies me. I wonder if he's thinking "what have my lies by omission caused...?" -- Don't snap at Dembe, Red. It isn't his fault. Your're projecting your own feelings of guilt. -- "You're Having My Baby" while a disco ball glitters over your ex-wife/amost-wife's impromptu O.R.? Seriously, Tom?? LOL -- A teary-eyed Mr Kaplan nearly did me in. -- Agnes?? -- Solomon is way too calm. It unnerves me. -- I thought it the #BlacklistBombshell NBC promoted with a heavy hand all week was going to be a dead Dembe. -- Red was very painfully believable getting into the car. I gasped. James Spader is a genius. -- Reasons I remain skeptical:<br />
<br />
1. We didn't see everything that took place in that ambulance. They cut to the gunfight outside. They totally could have revived her heart, and she's in a medically induced coma, so she'd look lifeless without the machines. This could totally be a plan hatched outside our hearing.<br />
<br />
2. Red has faked Lizzie's death before in order to protect her. Earlier this season in fact.<br />
<br />
3. Red asked Mr Kaplan not to let Liz be taken to the morgue...because he can't stand the thought of her there and he wants to take care of her himself? Or because SHE ISN'T DEAD??<br />
<br />
4. Megan Boone is nearing her real life maternity leave and this is an excellent way to "stage" it for the show.<br />
<br />
5. There is a spinoff supposedly coming, keying in on Mr Solomon and...Tom. This would be quite a way to get Tom out of the picture, making him believe Liz is dead, and provide both an exit from this show and context for why Tom would be after Mr Solomon in a spinoff. So...make Tom think Liz is dead so he's away from her forever, but get the baby back to Liz somehow? (If anyone can make that happen, it's Red.) Think about it: Mr Solomon was shocked by the person who employed him (Red, perhaps?? or Mr Kaplan, acting on his behalf?). The orders were always to make sure Liz was unharmed. Red knew Liz as Masha. Mr Solomon somehow always had some sort of leak on secret information. Could Red have hired Mr Solomon in order to get Liz away from Tom, and then this took a turn and he's just running with it?~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-91703684703114986712016-03-20T10:19:00.000-04:002016-03-22T11:03:25.546-04:00Snapshot from Along the Broken Road: 2016 - Week 11Checking in for the week of March 13 through March 19.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT I READ |</span><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3231960-valentine-murder" target="_blank">Valentine Murder</a> (Leslie Meier) - This isn't the sort of book that is going to win accolades or literary awards. It's a predictable (in format, anyway) little cozy mystery, with a 'whodunnit' and some red herrings and plenty of hijinks. When you keep your expectations in check, understanding the sort of book you've picked up, this was another fun installment in a series I've enjoyed thus far. It's exactly what I expected, after reading the first four books in this series. There were parts that made me chuckle. There were parts that made me want to read a little faster. I spent the entirety of the story trying to figure out who was responsible, and why, right alongside Lucy. And in the end, my initial suspicions were right, even though I'd changed my guess several times while I read.<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1089934.Before_I_Say_Good_Bye" target="_blank">Before I Say Good-Bye</a> (Mary Higgins Clark) - A bit of a slow start to this one, which is odd, because isn't there typically a little "heart pounding" or something sinister to whet the appetite, and then we slide into building the story? Hopefully, it will pick up some adrenaline soon. So weird for a MHC! They usually suck me right in.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT WE ATE|</span><br />
On Sunday, I made my second Blue Apron meal: <a href="https://www.blueapron.com/recipes/triple-pork-ramen-with-roasted-garlic-pea-tips" target="_blank">Triple Pork Mazemen with Roasted Garlic and Pea Tips</a> and, let me tell you, holy amount of flavor in this one! I don't know if I can find everything to re-create the recipe again, but if I can, I won't hesitate! Monday was my final Blue Apron recipe, <a href="https://www.blueapron.com/recipes/crispy-brown-butter-gnocchi-with-meyer-lemon-brussels-sprouts" target="_blank">Crispy Brown Butter Gnocchi with Meyer Lemon and Brussels Sprouts</a>, and I really enjoyed it. It was unexpectedly satisfying, for a meatless dish, although I don't see it being "enough" for T. However, it could easily go from a two-serving main dish portion to four side dish. And if you are ambivalent about Brussels sprouts (I like them, myself), I can tell you that between the lemon, thyme, garlic, and Parmesan, you can't even taste those few leaves in there. Tuesday, I was again on my own (T was in transit), so I just whipped up a little ziti with a red sauce. Grilled cheese and tomato soup was my quick-and-easy-before church on Wednesday. At T's request, Thursday, I made my <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/06/sausage-spinach-and-cheese-stuffed.html" target="_blank">Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Sausage</a> (double batch so there were some left to freeze!). On Friday, we had some ox roast sandwiches. T had brought home some ox roast from Pennsylvania. I'd never had it before and it was quite good! And on Saturday, no one felt like cooking, so we ran out for some Zaxby's chicken.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CANDLE SCENTS|</span><br />
<b>Blueberry Scone (YC)</b> - I really just want a warm-from-the-oven blueberry muffin every time I walk into the master bedroom.<br />
<b>Buttercream (YC)</b> - Mmmmm...buttercream.<br />
<b>Drift Away (YC)</b> - Fresh and clean. I jumped the gun, just a wee bit, on spring scents, because with only a couple days of winter left on the calendar, I couldn't see starting more wintry scents.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT THIS WEEK LOOKED LIKE|</span><br />
Bathtime for my car.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/k2vZX86tdADykDLBDPGJvNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--tlQYvbbvxg/VurPoTuq_hI/AAAAAAADr3I/hUHd9tGrsYQQ2ulX2nHGwnzh68jbeG9ZwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5401.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Florida is just exploding with color.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/42IU7uVXq24PxllM3pSyStMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JhPYWtrSeCY/VurPofegiyI/AAAAAAADr3I/164IoPn4Hg0ToKg5VPubyv6kYYlqwsfZgCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5417.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Blue Apron, the second: Triple Pork Mazemen with Roasted Garlic and Pea Tips. This was amazing, loaded with flavor.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uhedAhbeKU9Afn40M1V96dMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N_Ah40AlKyc/VurPoRGAbhI/AAAAAAADr3I/mmgR1ZehdlABKuK0KRkNFXeQIplWO6-MACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5407.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Inviting.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/PDcX9YVIQ9zRFSz--UHdw9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mSCPKFRQBNQ/VurPoaAwA-I/AAAAAAADr3I/vMIxz5Eneo49QDJ32YZwuNSXIFBrh9ttQCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5418.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Final Blue Apron: Crispy Brown Butter Gnocchi with Meyer Lemon and Brussels Sprouts. I was so surprised. For being meatless, it was unexpectedly satisfying. Plus, unlike the first two recipes, which had some ingredients I don't think I can find in order to replicate in the future, this recipe was all common ingredients. It was also very simple and quick to make, and it would work as a two-serving meal or a four-serving side dish. And, while I like Brussels sprouts, if you don't, I can tell you that you cannot even taste them, for all the lemon, thyme, garlic, and Parmesan. Plus, it's just "loose leaves," not the whole little sprout.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/xaxwacVgUc6K-cq3PxPzCdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pQrcQadWUBY/VurPoRN6WOI/AAAAAAADr3I/zSKdUE1uQgAPc_F4kzFuQCpkMJhFB69AwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5413.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Exercising my right.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/5RJrjX3Wu2y1Sn3UzEe5l9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PxcxdntGBDc/VurPoU2Im4I/AAAAAAADr3I/6tSUThpA8K8J_UX9WdBP-YTP2t2nMsQuQCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5416.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<br />~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-39367254226950734522016-03-19T10:16:00.000-04:002016-03-20T06:26:39.437-04:00This Week on My TV: March 19, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!<br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/K-nx_S_01jijuec8QjhyXdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="196" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Njq-L_2Wx6M/UowC5Qoc34I/AAAAAAAC1oI/LnNXLLkKMbk/s288/TVCollage.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Downton Abbey, season four</i>)</span> Did Robert honestly say "the price of great love is great misery when one of you dies" to *Tom*?? Ouch. -- Mrs Hughes and Carson really bring work husband/work wife to a whole new level (minus the marital bed, of course). I love that their interactions run the gamut of sweet, confiding, bickering, funny, and mundane. -- I wondered who Thomas (sorry, dude, but I cannot think of you as Barrow, promotion or otherwise) was going to target, now that O'Brien has sneaked off into the night. Apparently, he started with Nanny West (foul woman, she deserved it for how she spoke to sweet little Sybbie), moved on to tormenting Anna (whose husband *helped* him keep his employment at Downton, despite seeing Thomas for the toad he is!), sparring with that hussy, Edna (you just stay away from Tom and stop exploiting his vulnerabilities!), and then bringing in Baxter as Cora's new lady's maid. I wonder what he has on Baxter, because he certainly has her under his thumb. -- Anna and Bates were so difficult to watch this season, in the aftermath of her assault. I just wanted to hug them both. But why on earth didn't Mrs Hughes explain to Bates why Anna was afraid to tell him she was attacked? Wouldn't that have at least created the opportunity to head off trouble when that vile Green returned to Downton? I mean, Bates clearly loves Anna so much, there's a chance it might have defused the situation a bit. -- Mrs Hughes: <i>We must all have our hearts broken once or twice before we're done.</i> -- I have never been so happy about a discovery as I was about Matthew's pseudo will and that it was legit. The letter he wrote Mary was so sweet and I felt like we (Mary, too, perhaps?) were given a little closure on his death. I think it will be interesting to see how Mary steps up to to the challenges of running Downton, especially now that it will be in Matthew's stead. An unexpected ripple effect of Mary's involvement is a friendship blooming that I had no idea would affect me so much: Mary and Tom. I love the way they speak with one another and it's the most at ease I think we ever see post-Sybil Tom. -- Mary: <i>Sometimes I don’t know whom I’m most in mourning for: Matthew or the person I used to be when I was with him.</i> ... Mary is just breaking my heart. She knows he brought out the best in her, parts of her she didn't know how to reach without him. To see that ice queen Mary truly loved him was both beautiful and painful. -- How does Cora end up with the most awful lady's maids?? It's like she has the same luck with them as Edith with men. -- Speaking of Edith. Oh, Edith. After being jilted by Strallan, I understand why she is so taken with Gregson, but bidding him an intimate farewell before he departs for post-WWI Germany? That was bound to go poorly. Now she's unmarried, with child, and Gregson has straight up vanished without a trace. Because this is how things go for Edith. I realized that it is her cynicism that makes her not so much a character I'm drawn to, but I can see she comes by it honestly. -- Back to Baxter. I cannot decide how I feel about her. On the one hand, she seems more likable than Cora's other lady's maids (not that that was a stretch, given O'Brien and Edna) and she seems appalled by the way Thomas is plying her for information, but on the other, she somehow knows Thomas and is indebted to him, which makes me suspicious. Everything about Thomas makes me suspicious. -- Isobel: <i>How you hate to be wrong.</i> Violet: <i>I wouldn't know. I'm not familiar with the sensation. </i>-- Robert: <i>Don't be vulgar. What do you of such matters?</i> Mary: <i>I've been married. I know everything.</i> -- I struggle to see the point of Rose. I suppose she's there to fill the void, left by Sybil, of the young and controversial "daughter," but she lacks Sybil's sweetness and good heart, and it just seems to be forced to me. -- I have never laughed so hard at this show as with Mary and the pigs. -- I have to be honest, all these suitors and gentlemen around Mary leaves me confused. I keep mixing up Napier and Blake. And then Blake and Gillingham look just enough similar that I have to pause and remind myself which is which. And Napier would love a go at Mary, Blake thinks she's an entitled snob (which, sometimes, she is, but we'll see how that changes post pigs), and Gillingham, while I thought he was initially sweet, seems to be a bit of a cad, proposing to Mary while he's pre-engaged to Miss Lane Fox, then getting engaged after Mary declines, and *then* showing up at Downton in pursuit of Mary anyway. I'm with you, Mary. I'm not ready for you to be thinking of anyone but Matthew yet either. And certainly none of these guys. -- I loved, *loved*, Tom, Mary, and Isobel, sitting in the nursery with the babies, talking about how deeply they loved, and that, even though they've all lost, they were so lucky to have had at all. And sharing their engagement and early love stories. It all broke my heart in the best sort of way. Also, Tom? You are not allowed to move to America. Or anywhere else for that matter. -- Alfred gone to cooking school! Good for him. Get away from the death stares Daisy keeps giving Ivy, and nasty Jimmy. (I can see why Thomas was drawn to Jimmy. They're both ugly inside, sniping and plotting and just generally being unkind.) -- One of my favorite things about Mary is that when she has no idea how to respond to something said to her, she simply stares back in silence or abruptly changes the subject, then walks away. I laugh every time. What can I say? It speaks to my non-confrontational side. -- Not a fan of Miss Bunting. But I suspect no one will be good enough for Tom in my eyes. -- Tom: <i>Losing Sybil was hard. Compared to that, everything else is easy.</i> -- I want to hate everything about Lord Merton's advances on Isobel, because I really like Dr Clarkson for her. -- What, exactly, is Edith's plan for her baby??~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-43275170220283987622016-03-13T10:18:00.000-04:002016-03-17T15:28:13.602-04:00Snapshot from Along the Broken Road: 2016 - Week 10Checking in for the week of March 6 through March 12.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT I READ |</span><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15803233-the-ambassador-s-daughter" target="_blank">The Ambassador's Daughter</a> (Pam Jenoff) - After reading the first two books in this series, it was interesting to read the "prequel" of a character I'd already met. I enjoy historical fiction from many time periods, but I haven't read much from the World War I era, so it made the storylines fresh. Like the previous two books, there was intrigue and espionage, and with it, twists and turns that made me start or gasp a bit as they were revealed. But this book had a bit more of a love story than the previous two (though they had their own romance as well). I was definitely as caught up in Margot and Georg's romance as I was in Margot's inner turmoil over her unintended involvement with Red Thorn. My only regret is that there is no real resolution to their love story, despite the Epilogue. I do enjoy Jenoff's writing though, and I have more of her books on my "to-read" list. I also wouldn't be disappointed if another book was released in this series.<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3231960-valentine-murder" target="_blank">Valentine Murder</a> (Leslie Meier) - This has been a fast read. Closing in on the end...and whodunnit! Every time I think I have a guess, I get more information and it changes.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT WE ATE|</span><br />
Sunday was my first round of Flower and Garden Festing. Monday, I did up some <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2008/04/meatloaf-patties.html" target="_blank">Meatloaf Patties</a> with green beans and mashed potatoes. T made a tuna casserole for Tuesday's dinner. Wednesday was quick and easy before church: BLTs. We had some potatoes left to use, so on Thursday, we had some barbecue chicken with freezer corn and roasted potato wedges...the leftovers of which became home fries for Friday's breakfast-for-dinner! On Saturday, T was out of town for the first of four days. One of my friends does Blue Apron and had a free gift to share with a friend, so he shared with me. This was the perfect setup for cooking for one, since most of the meals make two servings, meaning dinner with leftovers for lunch! On Saturday, I made the first of my three gift meals: <a href="https://www.blueapron.com/recipes/adobo-style-chicken-with-roasted-bok-choy-jasmine-rice" target="_blank">Adobo-Style Chicken with Roasted Bok Choy and Jasmine Rice</a>.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CANDLE SCENTS|</span><br />
<b>Hollyberry (YC) </b>- Winding down on winter scents, with spring just around the corner. I don't want to start anything new!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT THIS WEEK LOOKED LIKE|</span><br />
Try the World afternoon snack of the week: tarot chips! They were so interesting. Manaing to be both savory with a hint of sweet, with the crispiness of a kettle chip, but a smooth texture rather than a rough one.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/eWvLXYsYbWsGvbesHuiaRdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EVPQJrtWO8E/VuLzDsoSW1I/AAAAAAADr0M/-zDNHXOnH5oKwVhAMSxdY8C5Q81EnozdgCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5355.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Just before sunset.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/bx-MUMCy5Da6T5dtWIuldtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WidWikIyI7Q/VuLzDi2cHMI/AAAAAAADr0g/kO7fOOSsXloa8JEJvfkPqzpUtmE2DQwbwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5359.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Dear gorgeous Florida sunrise, I'll miss you waking me up after Saturday. Your light always makes it easier to begin my day than the lingering darkness until nearly 8am.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/mw7Hh6A6KnseCE__M7RJcNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FdB9pypy2GE/VuLzDqiz16I/AAAAAAADr0M/GmmauthWeE8JdqzIH8JvPqZImF-p6ppKgCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5361.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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And then, the following morning, while getting T to the airport for his flight.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/tPzkO8EcNJv48YCoIAfk4dMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-72ScZrcpUto/VurPoSuqSII/AAAAAAADr3I/ifLJxhVTMts3wAPF_cLh44FmV625iP2GgCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5384.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Sunrise with a layer of fog. So dreamy...<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/M9EvWnX53dLCdP2juwQ4otMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mybgVRAFABc/VurPodJld0I/AAAAAAADr3I/DD7rlwtNWT4B_4GPNBTxddZAd6S6LoEbACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5388.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Quick stop off at Panera for lunch. You pick two!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ItfrhnKsg430R41DIiCkgNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DxXQS_Ofvrc/VurPoT4M9oI/AAAAAAADr3I/FMxFxExckKEm7mEqCKKyLtq4Q_Q22_bGgCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5395.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Blue Apron number one: Adobo-Style Chicken with Roasted Bok Choy and Jasmine Rice.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/QUcpG_Vm-I3eF3bjHyf71tMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YwrEaNlfMR0/VurPoYaAs2I/AAAAAAADr3I/psov7pfRleUgwo0Wna-0-w4OmTtA7jF9QCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5397.JPG" width="400" /></a>~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-1869936242146217042016-03-12T22:51:00.000-05:002016-03-17T14:52:26.447-04:00This Week on My TV: March 12, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/K-nx_S_01jijuec8QjhyXdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="196" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Njq-L_2Wx6M/UowC5Qoc34I/AAAAAAAC1oI/LnNXLLkKMbk/s288/TVCollage.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Good Wife</i><i>, 7x16 Hearing</i>)</span> That whole "we have bagels" bit was crazy hilarious. Including the entertained expression on Jason's face through the entire thing. -- This episode was a weird format with the vent eavesdropping that was often so difficult to hear. Which I realize was the point, but it was still frustrating. -- Do we even know what on earth is this hearing about? Or who?<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Scandal</i><i>, 5x11 The Candidate</i>)</span> I think it's time to say that Scandal is officially on notice for me. It went from must-see, during its first two seasons, to nearly unwatchable in the next two. Now, we're half way through season five, and there are more meh episodes than really good ones, which leaves me little room remaining that the show will recover its form. It feels like most of the episodes are little else than soapboxing for Shonda Rhimes. It's like Facebook come to life. Which...not anything I want to see. She's taken my two favorite "basically good guys" -- Jake and David -- and turned them into dirtbag characters who do ugly things, which means we're left with no one "wearing the white hat." Everyone is simply out to get everyone else without any sense of morals at all. I miss the balance Pope and Associates brought to the table. Now, I can't even remember the last case they worked, which begs the question: what purpose do Huck and Quinn...and Marcus (?...I don't even know his name!) even serve? Scandal, you have what's left of this season to win me back. There are too many other shows and activities with which I can occupy my time to keep watching a show that is a mockery of its former self.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Once Upon a Time</i><i>, 5x12 Souls of the Departed</i>)</span> I'm not exactly sure what purpose this episode served, other than to show us that Orange Storybrooke is proving to be one giant reunion, meaning no character on this show is ever guaranteed gone forever. A show brimming with magic has its perks!~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-76254210125415640512016-03-11T14:42:00.003-05:002016-03-11T14:42:52.649-05:00Flower and Garden Fest 2016: Round OneAnother Fest is upon us! I'm feeling filled to the brim with glee.<br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/NdTVkEeVOym5VhtfCxP_FdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f0Tg3ubImSo/VuLzGw5oiOI/AAAAAAADr0U/-SkIRXakgYUlue-t37nbU2pWKPR9CQ2cwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5366.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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It seems there are some who aren't on board with the foodie aspect that's been added to EPCOT's annual spring festival. I, personally, couldn't be more thrilled. I think it's a great addition to Flower and Garden Fest, and hey, if eating your way through a Fest isn't your thing? Just skip it! No one's forcing you to use your sense of taste. There's plenty to see as well. I, for one, think any excuse to incorporate delicious food into the picture is one with my name all over it. So, let's get down to it, yes?</div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">LA ISLA FRESCA</span></div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/f240eu-drrp38m6Dx0zb9dMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lirR_Q25xzk/VuLrWJit4OI/AAAAAAADrzI/n5XoWRvkS74YKuHJwBCVJSrgyvtLJ5XggCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2359.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Jerk-Spiced Grouper with Mango Salsa, Chayote, and Green Papaya Slaw with Lime-Cilantro Vinaigrette.</span></div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wUhh6nGk9Z5JFGGGYTjYINMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1q1d-9ZjYRA/Vt76q02JRwI/AAAAAAADrvc/uaxVlzy_RJo89ucz0ZTws0By8YMTe0zTACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5328.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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No easing into this Fest. This was a smack, right in the kisser. So much flavor! The fish was light and didn't compete with the spices one bit. And while there was a mild warmth in the back of the throat from the jerk spices, it was by no means too much. I'm going to be honest: I hadn't a clue what chayote is and had to look it up. It's a squash. And that slaw was the perfect accompaniment to the fish. It was cool and crunchy, and that vinaigrette was peppy and bright. I didn't taste much in the way of cilantro (maybe it was drowned out by the jerk spices already on my taste buds?), but the lime was there. All told, this was an excellent way to start this Fest, because it embodied everything I think the Flower and Garden eats should be: light, bright, and fresh.</div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/GKS2IBdZZJo21E29Ioa5pNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YAxIjmCMxPU/VuLrV4WjG4I/AAAAAAADrzI/3m2zpqO1qMwNJN_cPfr8Nq0zL7hbVBBagCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2357.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">JARDIN DE FIESTAS</span></div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ywwstHchFQmcYaZ1bx_GldMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--SVSX3B4aJs/VuLrWU9tifI/AAAAAAADrzI/rUAk0KXvKj4kTgYsRwyaz5dFYAsn5ATtwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2361.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Tacos de Camaron</span> (tempura shrimp served with hibiscus flower, caramelized onions, and Habanero sauce)<span style="color: #cc0000;">. Elderflower Watermelon Sangria.</span></div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/qrQ0Raorq4bnZzbb1G6qUtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--vOHQGhN__Y/Vt76q_E6XDI/AAAAAAADrvc/dBZqKh2jScUx0bMp8PgkMjAHhZD-bzEdwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5329.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/jcuYlz8W8gn9mP-gRV1EetMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PFFaujru0-E/Vt76q9FMyiI/AAAAAAADrvc/Qu1ZwJj8JK4Z8j4Z586MlMt_S3ppOSj5ACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5330.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I'm pretty much always all in on a crispy shrimp taco, so the second I saw this on the menu preview, I was salivating, but... Don't get me wrong, it's very tasty. The tempura shrimp was wonderful, and the caramelized onions brought flavor to the party, with the Habanero providing the zip. I just don't feel like this was a Flower and Garden Fest dish. The richness of the caramelized onion was too heavy for the spring, and it completely obliterated the hibiscus into little more than a note on the menu board, because there was no other indication of its presence. This taco needed to have some sort of slaw or shredded lettuce, and for the onion to be thinly sliced and raw, in order to scream SPRING!! So, I was disappointed in the timing of this one, not in the way it actually tasted. That sangria, though, was everything it should be. Fresh and slightly sweet, with a hint of floral. *That* was spring-ish in every way.</div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/4qrzAcpg8pLxPmzSb_v0QdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kQrbA8yYC7Q/VuLrV9ohDKI/AAAAAAADrzI/X48GW1Vxv9kE59nvHt0Ph9_mqvNVT1TnwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2360.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">BAUERNMARKT: FARMER'S MARKET</span></div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/0TW2Y_H3DFzWSVtnx0LFEtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RZZPKIiPF60/VuLrXICpCmI/AAAAAAADry8/yAaK5Y5eRfYq8lwkA_wtrq0nuorM8nLRwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2366.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Armer Ritter</span> (egg battered toast with cherry compote and powdered sugar)<span style="color: #cc0000;">.</span></div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Hfi0uGvxxv0m-WB4pD_yK9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TyPTFcpXrEs/Vt76qxGA3eI/AAAAAAADrvc/ynWnQ40lC0c40_y631taTQOcY1vFwoJbACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5331.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
Yum. Also, YUM. At first, I was mildly skeptical about French toast showing up on the menu of a decidedly German Outdoor Kitchen. But those cherries and the dusting of powdered sugar changed my tune. The cherries were vaguely reminiscent of what I think of with Black Forest (just no chocolate anywhere) and that seemed enough to sell my senses. And, somehow, this dish wasn't ridiculously heavy (as I sometimes find French toast), so it fit my criteria for the spring. My one and only complaint: not enough toast to soak up all that delectable cherry juice. It was all I could do to refrain from licking my plate.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/WoCQYAj1JxKg2_7VQVHC4tMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2pLMQg-emFw/VuLrXIWWmjI/AAAAAAADry8/ueTSAzWl5tEhxDmZkK7J-sZNYTsfmgMWACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2367.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">THE SMOKEHOUSE: BARBECUE AND BREWS</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/nvuE4IvJCLzlY7viksrMKtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DAdz4VuL7T4/VuLrYNS3hiI/AAAAAAADry8/s3kxXTpAF_4_XTF8SjvFOmAjZOureEe0gCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2373.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hash with White Cheddar Fondue and Pickled Jalapenos.</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uRwgT0Zvq2LSTZWs_uIcp9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LgM2rGYL3kc/Vt76q6Po0wI/AAAAAAADrvc/KfhRg13a6nIsstagjwKQ1PXvQPmLWIaMgCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5332.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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This was a "top five" favorite from last Fest and I was really looking forward to it. Unfortunately, I think I pulled a dud on this one. There were several pieces of meat that were mostly fat and one only that was "burnt ends" crispy. The potatoes was overdone and mealy (ick). There were almost no onions and peppers to be found. The cheese sauce, which was more like a Hollandaise than gooey, was a bit...clumpy? I dunno. For a dish I thoroughly enjoyed in 2015, it really fell flat. But the menu description hadn't changed at all, so I have to believe I just got a serving that missed the mark on quality. Oh well, that's rare, so I'm not going to dwell.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/jQ3gMY_ZyTmoNtmQL0XcM9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8-ubMNbMA4I/VuLrYC-pNbI/AAAAAAADry8/GSxno2fPzQwr2taprZfvBWfv3TBN-ZLNQCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2375.JPG" width="266" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">TASTE OF MARRAKESH</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/gLpM5IsQomJyImAMrrJRytMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s-kWpohRmuI/VuLrY7ehEfI/AAAAAAADry8/lhtfRiFsk3ouC1Hy3IeME3TJ6d3O86fQwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2381.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Desert Rose</span> (sparkling wine topped with pomegranate liqueur)<span style="color: #cc0000;">.</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/3cOl9ulUInAjF21TMzxjKNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wwIU5QyaW8g/Vt76q0ag0fI/AAAAAAADrvc/LeW_Hj-YjaQNLj0zIMAqR6UJVObnzXOSACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5333.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
Know what makes you not care about a dud? BUBBLES. In Fez House. They've offered this drink since they introduced the Outdoor Kitchens to Flower and Garden Fest, and it's one of my favorites every time. Bubbly and not too sweet, left me refreshed and smiley.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/o5YhtjMRSnxZu07We1k3rtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U7100djUY4o/VuLrZAMJHkI/AAAAAAADry8/Wh7Mk4qJej4kIkkbfDHCdGQwdYtapytaACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2382.JPG" width="266" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CIDER HOUSE</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/BFrBr_L67mx-tT1lPbJIOdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ckxom1-Gf0A/VuLra5IIFwI/AAAAAAADry8/UP_Kos3T5uYVJH4w1rE8kqUtwUVGNEOCQCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2396.JPG" width="266" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Land-Harvested Field Greens with Apples, Dried Blueberries, Stilton Cheese, and Apple Cider Vinaigrette. Keel and Curley Mad Man Blueberry Hard Cider.</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/FIcmZWolPQ_JXJo9DIh-lNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8usLIVBaFDA/Vt76qzfFsiI/AAAAAAADrvc/zcizodFcwK0yTZJruzILNRwnBSDU2TcfACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5334.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
This is exactly the sort of dish I expect to find at Flower and Garden Fest. Fresh and crisp, and bursting with bright flavors. I mean, it's just a salad, right? WRONG. The greens were super tender, but let's be honest, they're just a vehicle for the rest. The sweet blueberries, the powerful blue cheese, the crisp, tart apples (cut matchstick-style!), and that dressing. My Lord, I need a recipe for that vinaigrette. Oh, and lest it not get its due, that blueberry hard cider (which is made at a vineyard not far from where I live -- blueberry wine!) was dangerous. It did not taste like an adult beverage. It was all sweet and deceptive. And then I was all buzzed and I couldn't stop laughing (which my friend, Daniel, finds hilarious, the instigator). That poor, tasty salad was no match to balance that hard cider, good as it was.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/tbvMAEXC38L9qfpgyOmxmtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iSYzeKHrCUE/VuLraj7sP-I/AAAAAAADry8/FEmjJqp_7BAcuJMFOCaWjG5ZV-OLwehBQCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2394.JPG" width="266" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">HANAMI</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/76DsPwDw-CbXdTxXU_noGNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xQnmIGQM_QI/VuLrYe6qaBI/AAAAAAADry8/VVH2vMZ6qWECySFscaBqYUxJB2uwBhNNACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2379.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Frushi</span> (fresh pineapple, strawberry, and melon rolled with coconut rice, with raspberry sauce, toasted coconut, and whipped cream on the side)<span style="color: #cc0000;">.</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/25Zxmnimv_HgYsP8KM89StMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mLrkBn7Y9Rk/Vt76qwADwUI/AAAAAAADrvc/sJS9rLVboz0qeT6bLFW0pbASxyCevQ3EQCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5346.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
This is such a fun take on sushi, I can never resist. It's so playful! It's like dessert sushi! And no matter how full you are, there's still room.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/1kV685bim2QUTxeoXkk8TtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aanxJDbT1_s/VuLrYr7QSWI/AAAAAAADry8/stOWf7FhasEL7nUprHVfLaOFREWEyNrJwCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2380.JPG" width="266" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">PRIMAVERA KITCHEN</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/5tHgg4cYTv4k6Euezd5VpdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dBYs4pmxh7U/VuLrXfyBXLI/AAAAAAADry8/mriVvaXynuEMh2WTXaTrSzl4Po99BO6rACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2369.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Cremoso al Pistacchio</span> (pistachio cream, strawberries, and mascarpone cream)<span style="color: #cc0000;">.</span><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zOsNabmpY3naz1GT5iI9X9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZFIKgNEW7JU/Vt76q88oWyI/AAAAAAADrvc/OxQwAccMBYQRiAOEHo4RmxYVZ5gkUJW3wCCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_5347.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
Thank heaven this was small, because I was so full. Truthfully, pistachio anything isn't generally my thing. It's ok, but it isn't a flavor toward which I gravitate. I figured, given the size, that it couldn't be that dominant, and I was right. There was definite pistachio flavor in that top layer, but when you combined that with the sweet strawberries and that creamy dreamy mascarpone, it's all good. I have no idea what the crunchies were on top, but they gave the bite just the right amount of texture. Round one closed on a full but happy note.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/r3sG-bU6F3V5aefg7FXcbtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WdJs4uCwrpk/VuLrX3sUKYI/AAAAAAADry8/n09umWXUNPwNnQ0ex10-xF0ujkmKLtOsACCo/s400-Ic42/IMG_2370.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-6400213742979852522016-03-06T10:18:00.000-05:002016-03-08T12:03:48.464-05:00Snapshot from Along the Broken Road: 2016 - Week 9Checking in for the week of February 28 through March 5.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT I READ |</span><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/408854.The_Dark_Tower" target="_blank">The Dark Tower</a> (Stephen King) - Well, I'm done. (All hail jury duty.) At times, the sheer volume of pages in this series has seemed daunting. At times, I've been so angry at Stephen King for the twists and turns the story that unfolded for the Ka-Tet of 19. At times, this series -- and especially this final book -- ventured so far outside my comfort zone, that I wanted to slam the book shut and never turn back. So dark, so twisted...but, like Roland's pull to the Tower, the story has the pull, a truly odd addictive quality. Full disclosure: King urges the reader to stop with a few pages remaining, begging that they be satisfied with the story ending at this point. After conferring with the friend who insisted I read the series, and who, himself, did not stop at that point, I made the determination to stop (there were 12 pages remaining), although I did read King's final Author's Note. ***SPOILER ALERT*** (Skip the rest of my commentary on this book if you don't want spoilers.) The one thing that bothered me was the lack of resolution for Oy, who was my favorite character from the moment we met him and who broke my heart as he mourned the loss of his 'Ake. We know that (at least at the point I stopped), Jake, Eddie, and Susannah achieved a measure of "happiness after all," if not "happily ever after." And, for better or for worse, whatever may have awaited Roland in his Tower, he had reached his final goal, to save the Beams (and thus, the Tower, and all the Universes it holds), to relieve all the worlds of the Crimson King, and vile Mordred (I wanted to cheer when that thing perished), and to enter the Tower. I'll never know if he reached its top, or what fate (Ka?) held in store for him when he entered the door. As much as I like complete resolution, I think I'm content to let this lie. In my experience, this story never lets happiness stand secure for very long, and while the characters all (save Oy) have some measure of it, I'll let go -- in part out of fear I'll learn what I wish I hadn't.<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15803233-the-ambassador-s-daughter" target="_blank">The Ambassador's Daughter</a> (Pam Jenoff) - Moved right into this book, full speed ahead now. I'm four books behind schedule, according to my challenge page on Goodreads. Time to get going! I cannot decide if I like the main character or not. 140 pages of wishywashy. I just want to tell her to make a choice already!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT WE ATE|</span><br />
I requested T's delicious (but oh so decadent) <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2014/08/chicken-alfredo-lasagna.html" target="_blank">Chicken Alfredo Lasagna</a>. Because it is time and labor intensive, it's best to do this one on the weekend, so it was our Sunday dinner. Tuesday, we thawed our some <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2015/11/white-chicken-chili.html" target="_blank">White Chicken Chili</a> from the freezer. Kielbasa with sauerkraut and pierogi was the easy-before-church meal on Wednesday. I had a jar of roasted red peppers in the refrigerator that I wanted to get used, so I made some <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/09/italian-sausage-rigatoni.html" target="_blank">Rigatoni with Sausage and Roasted Peppers</a> Thursday. Friday, T made some <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2016/03/drumsticks-in-creamy-white-wine-sauce.html" target="_blank">Chicken Drumsticks in a Creamy White Wine Sauce</a>, which we served with broccoli and some angel hair (our go-to for catching tasty sauces). Saturday was T's birthday, so we went to Boston Lobster Feast in Orlando, because all you can eat seafood is one of his happy places.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CANDLE SCENTS|</span><br />
<b>Hollyberry (YC)</b><br />
<b>Christmas Wreath (YC)</b> - Ah, yes. That strange place at the end of winter, when my scents are still heavily associated with Christmas, but we're getting ready for Easter. I can't help it. I refuse to not fully enjoy the current season before moving on to the next. Spring isn't here until March 20, so Christmas Wreath it is!<br />
<b>Holiday Bayberry (YC)</b> - This one, especially when it combines in the hallway with Hollyberry (the former is in the hall bathroom and the latter in the master bedroom), smells like winter and nostalgia, and I really just love it.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT THIS WEEK LOOKED LIKE|</span><br />
Girl Scout Cookie season! Tagalongs. Thin Mints. Samoas. And Trefoils (mmmmm...I think shortbread is highly underrated!).<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/AstjcoM8SkaeABkdvlXUetMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_gDtLS2tesg/VtX3kjblGeI/AAAAAAADrq0/2CH0L1XfWf4/s400-Ic42/IMG_5294.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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March 1.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/dXkZhaRb7gulgG7KhLLaHdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jb5dmIPN1zk/VtX3kl992vI/AAAAAAADrq0/396DgO0xV5M/s400-Ic42/IMG_5295.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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March 1 at work.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/t1RUriUIt5MPv8m6PeJM6dMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UXUT-iBzB5I/VtX3kiU1AFI/AAAAAAADrq0/IyNjseVAJQY/s400-Ic42/IMG_5296.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Thing I learned from the Thailand "Try the World" box: I like dried jackfruit.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wE_f-SHYE8etSWLPeyW_FtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eNU2BwWdOnM/VtX3kiqqUlI/AAAAAAADrrU/WLv0_oqxt2s/s400-Ic42/IMG_5297.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Our evening walks frequently take us out into the orange groves, now that it's the very beginning of orange blossom season. Heavenly!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/kBKGkI55FE9s143hQrL5J9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tDcQlunKjAk/Vt76i-caAOI/AAAAAAADrvU/nePl1yukjBU/s400-Ic42/IMG_5305.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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All he ever asks for on his birthday.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/2c0rvsh1cj_pdXTe1837w9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gorecPD33cc/Vt76i_lOZcI/AAAAAAADrvQ/6EPdkXvfYDE/s400-Ic42/IMG_5307.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Silhouettes and sunset.<br />
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Symphony in the Stars at Hollywood Studios.<br />
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Dazzling fireworks display! I'm so glad we decided to check it out, post seafood feast.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/lFAm68NdZVl81RIcfaolftMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YyWG7HKaV6A/Vt76i5QJYeI/AAAAAAADrvU/BInkrC3Efng/s400-Ic42/IMG_5353.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Looks like Mickey!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/nl2jRXYNQbUO2MQU5Ciy4dMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DlRFO7282Tc/Vt76i7KLDeI/AAAAAAADrvU/ljwDWFvoNBY/s400-Ic42/IMG_5351.JPG" width="400" /></a>~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-91396496437095503342016-03-05T20:31:00.000-05:002016-03-08T10:16:08.107-05:00This Week on My TV: March 5, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Downton Abbey</i><i>, season 3</i>)</span> It's a good thing (sulky, whiny) Robert and his stubborn ego finally stopped clinging to the "old ways" in time for Matthew's Swire inheritance to truly save Downton, rather than simply keeping it afloat on the same path for just a little while longer. And the fact that he actually acknowledged it to Cora while they were all in Scotland shocked me. Perhaps Robert will become more likable again now? I do have to say that Cora handled the news that her money was lost with exceptional grace. -- Was there anything more uncomfortable than Tom Branson's first time back at Downton since he and Sybil married? Thank God for Matthew stepping in to ease the way as best he could. -- I could watch an entire episode of Cora's mother and Violet sniping at each other. -- Anna [to Mary, about Matthew]: <i>What I see is a good man m'lady. And they're not like buses. There won't be another on along in ten minutes' time.</i> -- Oh, Alfred, you awkward goofball. -- Sage advice from Violet: Never mistake a wish for a certainty. -- I keep trying to like Edith, but she just has the worst taste in men. First the wedding that wasn't with Strallan and now this "thing" with her married-but-not-really editor? C'mon, Edith. Have some self respect. I know how it feels to be the only one not married yet, but forcing it isn't going to help. -- Violet: <i>Edith, dear, you're a woman with a brain and reasonable ability. Stop whining and find something to do.</i> -- Top three favorite moment of the season: Mrs Hughes and her toaster. -- I was rocked by Sybil's death. I could feel it coming. All the bickering back and forth between Robert's "specialist" and Dr Clarkson was so foreboding. I still wasn't prepared for it. And Tom's grief about broke my heart, both in the immediate aftermath, and again later, when he fell apart with Mrs Hughes while the rest of the family was in Scotland. He may have been "below Sybil's station," but he loved her so fiercely. -- I about died laughing when they were taking the christening photos and the photographer asked the priest to get in with Robert, prompting Cora to ask: What's the matter, Robert? Are you afraid you'll be converted while you're not looking? -- Here's the thing about Thomas. I still think he's a real jerk, but they managed to make him far more sympathetic this season. I waffled back and forth, between when he was messing with Alfred and stepping into the mugging at the fair to save that little twerp, Jimmy. I suppose, like each of the characters (and really, all of us), he has moments that redeem him and moments he badly needs redemption. Nothing illustrated that better than when Mr Bates "encouraged" O'Brien to lay off her plotting and scheming to ruin Thomas' life. But that leads me to also ask: when and why did Thomas and O'Brien switch from being thick as thieves to plotting and scheming against one another? I feel like I missed something. -- My, but Mr Bates was a dapper fellow as her was walking out of the prison following his release! And thank God we're done with all that. The Bates in prison arc went on just a little too long for me. -- Speaking of Mr Bates, he and Anna are just the cutest thing ever. Their love and mutual admiration just resonates off the screen. I am also loving Anna's promotion to being a lady's maid for Mary. She's so sweet and kind. I feel like she's a good sounding board and balance for the, often times, chilly Mary. -- Matthew: <i>Don't dislike him before you know him.</i> ... This bit of wisdom is worth its weight in gold and something we easily forget. -- I thoroughly enjoyed Mrs Hughes on the carousel at the fair. I love that she is a balance between stern and lighthearted. -- Another top three moment of the season: Carson with Baby Sybil. He's such a curmudgeon...but there's a soft heart inside that crusty shell. -- Holy cow, what an unhappy group in the Scottish castle. I was uncomfortable every time they were on the screen. -- Matthew [on the birth of his son]: <i>*I'm* dancing a jig. I feel like I've swallowed a box of fireworks. </i>-- Which brings me to: Honest to God. Not Matthew too. ::sob:: Season three was not nice. NOT NICE. I fear that Mary will never get over this loss, once she learns of it. Matthew softened her sharp edges, made her feel loved even when she felt unlovable, saw the good in her that she didn't often show, gave her a place where she might feel safe expressing some vulnerability. This will douse the light she had whenever he was around (even when she was nagging him about the Swire inheritance and was cross at him). I know she's an unpopular character, but somehow, I have compassion for her. I don't think it's easy to shoulder the expectations placed on her, being the eldest daughter in a family with no sons. She can be cold and callous at times, especially with Edith (who often grates on my nerves as well), but I don't think that is *all* of who she is, and now she's going to stuff the broken parts even further below the surface, unless I miss my guess. Poor, poor Mary without Matthew. This is going to destroy her in a ways everyone else will never expect or understand.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Grey's Anatomy</i><i>, 12x11 Unbreak My Heart</i>)</span> I have never been a fan of flashbacks (unless they are blatantly obvious, like in Friends, they often confuse the heck outta me). The format of this episode with the flashbacks and the rewinds and the telling the story backward and the jumping back to the present...meh. It was too much work for me to keep up with it. I *do* have to say that the bombshell of April's pregnancy was well-played, though. Excellent and appropriate twist. But it still doesn't fix the 43 minutes (not counting commercials) leading up to that announcement.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-51211355260958520132016-02-28T17:18:00.000-05:002016-03-03T14:12:44.403-05:00Snapshot from Along the Broken Road: 2016 - Week 8Checking in for the week of February 21 through February 27.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT I READ |</span><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/408854.The_Dark_Tower" target="_blank">The Dark Tower</a> (Stephen King) - Just over 300 pages to go. Jury duty on Monday. I can see the light at the end of this month long tunnel.<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15803233-the-ambassador-s-daughter" target="_blank">The Ambassador's Daughter</a> (Pam Jenoff) - I've been squeezing bits of reading on my lunch break. Really looking forward to actually digging into this one soon!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT WE ATE|</span><br />
Sunday, we did up some sausage burgers and topped them with provolone and roasted peppers. We balanced that, on Monday, with some tilapia, wild rice, and zucchini. Tuesday, I did up some <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/turkey-pot-pie-soup.html" target="_blank">Turkey Pot Pie Soup</a>, using up the frozen turkey leftovers from Christmas dinner. Wednesday needed to be quick since the Lent service starts at 6:30; grilled cheese worked perfectly. We tried out a new recipe, <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2016/03/bacon-scallops-with-garlic-butter-sauce.html" target="_blank">Bacon Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce</a>, on Thursday; we served it with some angel hair, to catch every drop of that sauce and found it really tasty! We had a Steak 'n Shake date on Friday, because I just had to get that black raspberry chocolate chip shake...so amazingly delicious.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CANDLE SCENTS|</span><br />
<b>Hollyberry (YC)</b><br />
<b>Snowflake Cookie (YC)</b> - I'm really not sure how this one is any different from the classic Christmas Cookie scent, but it's vanilla and smells like cookies, so I'm not going to complain.<br />
<b>Hazelnut Coffee (YC)</b> - Makes the house smell super yummy.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT THIS WEEK LOOKED LIKE|</span><br />
The new scallops recipe plated up rather pretty!<br />
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Every bit as delicious as I had hoped.<br />
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Date night!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/kEaVfa5oxiUY5Fh62qLZv9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5nj4DZZX6j0/VtX3gGsdNzI/AAAAAAADrqs/FXFRzZdcdBU/s400-Ic42/IMG_5293.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Finally well enough to indulge in that homemade hot chocolate I've been wanting.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/QhShnF7ieLDvY5_5vZE-pdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EnRyBJK2_Lo/VtX3gBIYBOI/AAAAAAADrqs/VfN_LalAs2M/s400-Ic42/IMG_5286.JPG" width="400" /></a>~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-11322152209744369532016-02-27T20:03:00.000-05:002016-03-03T13:51:49.370-05:00This Week on My TV: February 27, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Good Wife</i><i>, 7x15 Targets</i>)</span> I always wonder if Elsbeth's quirks (the physical ones, not the verbal) are written into the script or if Carrie Preston just ad libs them herself? -- Jason's exasperation with Lockhart, Agos and Lee is amusing to me. I believe he and I are on the same page when it comes to having the drama of others inflicted on our lives. -- That was some steamy office scene between Alicia and Jason. -- Return of the NSA guys! Looks like they're trying to get in appearances from all sorts of recurring characters before the show ends. Louis Canning on deck? -- So, who is the FBI actually investigating? Peter? Eli? Alicia? I'm so confused.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Downton Abbey</i><i>, season 2</i>)</span> I have so many thoughts, now that I've had time to get to know all these characters! -- That was quite a transition to having the hospital run out of Downton. But I am a bit confused. From the outside, the place looks positively enormous. So...other than being a bit bratty...why were the Crawleys acting so put out that they wouldn't have enough space to go about their lives? -- I found the abrupt departure (and really his appearance all together) of the man purporting to be Patrick Crawley very jarring. -- This whole Daisy and William thing is just annoying, which makes me sad, because I liked William, but Daisy grates on my every nerve. She's whiny and has no backbone whatsoever, and really just...she can go now. -- I was so horrified for Matthew, when he was injured. I'm glad it turned out to be only a temporary paralysis, but I loved seeing Mary step up and care for him. I felt like that was a huge moment of growth for her character, especially after all that nonsense of her "not wanting him if he wasn't going to be the heir" in season one. -- Speaking of Matthew's injury, I feel bad for speaking ill of poor departed, unrequited Lavinia, but, sweet as she was, she kind of bothered me too. I don't know if it was my wanting Matthew to come around about Mary or just how cowed Lavinia seemed by the Crawleys or what, but I just couldn't make myself like her. -- On the topic of the departed Lavinia, that Spanish Flu was (at least portrayed as) a very fickle illness. Carson looked like someone with the, well, flu. Cora looked like she was dying of Ebola. And Lavinia went from someone looking like she was hardly afflicted to dead as a door nail. I also wonder how the rest of the household managed to remain healthy, given all the contact they had with the ill. It sure didn't look like they were taking many precautions. -- I wasn't sure, initially, but I like Sybil and Branson together. -- Obviously, everyone feels this way about it, but Violet is easily the comic relief on this show. She's set in her ways and in tradition, but then she's too old to care what anyone thinks when she speaks her mind, which she does as often as possible, and just when you think she's going to go completely nuts over something, she is this forward thinking woman you never expect. Like when Robert told her about Sybil running off to marry the chauffeur and she's ready to accept it and find a way to spin the story in a favorable light for the family name. -- Oh. Right. Robert. Just *what* was that dalliance with Jane all about ? I rather like Robert, so this...straying (with Cora writhing in bed, possibly dying, no less!) rubbed me the wrong way. I'm relieved he stopped himself before it progressed further, and I hope that this isn't a recurring theme with him. I like to think that made him a bit more compassionate toward Mary, when he learned about her little secret. And now, perhaps, we can finally lay poor, scandalous Mr Pamuk to rest. And good riddance to Sir Richard as well. As Violet replied, when he informed her he doubted they would be seeing one another again, "Do you promise?" (I literally snorted with laughter at that one.) -- Anna and Mr Bates are a total emotional roller coaster for me. First, they're unable to act on their obvious feelings (sad). And then Vera Bates agrees to the divorce and they can be together now (happy). But then Vera recants (sad). And then she turns up dead and they can be married (happy and also what?). Then Mr Bates is accused of her murder and sentenced to death (devastated). But now he's been granted a life sentence instead (hopeful). All I know is that they are so sweet and kind and genuine, in a world where, no matter whether you're "upstairs" or "downstairs," very few people seem to possess any of those qualities. I just want them to have their happiness. -- Since we're talking about the schemers and manipulators. I am suspicious of O'Brien's sudden bout of conscience. The guilt, suddenly, over causing Cora to miscarry, and all this concern over Mr Bates. And then there is Thomas finding himself swindled in his new post-war business venture, worming his way back into service at Downton. Every time I start to feel the slightest sympathy for either of these characters, I'm reminded just how wicked and self-serving they've been, over and over, and I just can't. -- How is it that there is a new maid, it seems, every other episode, but they still can't find a replacement footman to fill William's vacancy? And without Thomas, they wouldn't have any? -- Mary and Matthew! Mary and Matthew! They've finally listened to all the prodding and encouragement and the "you know he/she is still in love with you"-s the elder members of the family have been giving them since they stormed away from each other in the season one finale. And that proposal, with the big, dreamy snowflakes falling, and for the first time, we see Mary openly showing emotions, and the way Matthew looks at her. ::happy sigh:: (I'm going to just keep ignoring the fact that they are related, because, even though this was the way of things and they're likely very distant relations at most, it's still just a little weird to me, the way they walk around calling each other "cousin" all the time.)<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Grey's Anatomy</i><i>, 12x09 The Sound of Silence</i>)</span> I cannot believe how stressful this episode was, from Meredith's perspective as a recovering patient, after that accident victim went nuts and assaulted her. The way they went silent, when she couldn't hear. How frustrated she felt trying to communicate. How devastated she was when Alex brought her kids to see her in the hospital and they were too afraid to come to her. It was like feeling all those things for her, as the viewer. What a well acted episode with a really unique perspective. -- It was very moving when she finally met with her attacker so he could apologize. When she reached out her hand in acceptance of his apology, offering forgiveness, I was stunned by how much they were able to communicate without Mer uttering a word. -- Two characters really stood out to me in this episode (outside of Mer). Alex, for really stepping up as Mer's Person. And Penny, confidently *caring* for her patient, which was a huge deal, considering it was Meredith. I think that may go a long way in how Mer feels about Penny, despite what happened with Derek. -- I'm getting to the point where I really just don't like Amelia one bit.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Middle</i><i>, 7x16 The Man Hunt</i>)</span> Sue Heck flirting. My life is complete now. (Also, I'm pretty sure that's what I look like trying to flirt as well. Maybe why it took me until I was 35 to get married?) And I love that she ended up having a good night with the campus safe driver, just being herself, after Frankie's "flirting advice" went (unsurprisingly) *badly* at the frat party. I just hope that a) maybe this kid will be someone for Sue, in the wake of calling off her engagement to Darrin, and now the disappointment that Logan is going to become a priest, and b) that all their differences don't drive a wedge in her friendship with Lexie, because I really like what Lexie brings to the as a balance for Sue. -- Axl, Hutch, Kenny, and the Winnebago. That was so. flipping. funny. Especially when Axl and Hutch realized that they had lost Kenny, and that they actually cared he was lost. But when he turned up at the Hecks' house, talking politely and having made himself useful to Frankie? I was cracking up. He's such an unexpectedly hilarious character.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Big Bang Theory</i><i>, 9x17 The Celebration Experimentation</i>)</span> Amy: <i>Where'd he go? </i>Penny: <i>Wait a minute. You mention his birthday and he vanishes?</i> Leonard: <i>Where's that information been this whole time? </i>-- Bernadette: <i>What kind of cake do you like?</i> Sheldon: <i>My favorite is chocolate with strawberry frosting, three layers. And if there's writing on it, make sure it's not all caps. I don't need my dessert yelling at me.</i> -- Penny [to Stuart]: <i>Ok, sweetie, we're on the clock here. Can you hate yourself and frost at the same time?</i> -- Howard: <i>Really, you're ahead of Bale? The man who personified the words 'I'm Batman'?</i> Adam West: <i>I never had to say 'I'm Batman'. I showed up. People knew I was Batman.</i> -- Sheldon asking Amy if she was having a stroke after the birthday suit conversation. LOL -- Amy looked very pretty with her party hair. -- I thoroughly enjoy the friendship between Penny and Sheldon. Sometimes, it seems like no one else really knows what to say to him, but she does. Kwipke...errr, Kripke ;-) is getting really grey! Sheldon [to Penny]: <i>You know, I used to hate these hugs. Now they're just extremely irritating.</i><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Blacklist</i><i>, 3x16 The Caretaker</i>)</span> I don't know how I feel about Liz marrying Tom. I really don't. Tom is an idiot. No wonder Red doesn't think he's good enough for Liz. -- Lizzie's rapidly growing belly makes me feel like we're watching an episode of Fringe. -- Liz: <i>They employ me as a consultant. He employs me as an inside source.</i> -- Dembe: <i>She deserves to know the truth.</i> Red: <i>Watch the road, Dembe.</i> ... Red knows Dembe is right. He's probably the only person who can get away with calling Red out. Not that Red will do anything he doesn't want to do. -- I think I like this Panabaker character. She pulls no shots. And I think she can actually be trusted. -- Red: <i>Luckily for you, Harold, I poke my thumb in many pies.</i> -- I knew Rose was in on it! I totally called that to T, by the way, when they found her in the hotel room, sitting there unharmed. -- Aram: <i>There is one last battery connected to the green control box on the top left. Cut the wrong wire in the wrong sequence and the bomb detonates. All right, there are two wires there. Blue and red. So here's what you do: apologize to Agent Navabi.</i> Ressler: <i>What?</i> Samar: <i>Aram, we don't have time for this. We have thirty seconds.</i> Aram: <i>'I'm sorry' takes less than one.</i> -- I kinda felt bad for the Caretaker. He wasn't as sinister as a lot of the big bads on Red's list. -- Harold: <i>I've learned the hard way, some secrets are best kept in the dark.</i> Red: <i>Mine certainly is.</i> ... WHAT SECRET, RED?? -- She loves Red. She hates Red. She loves Red. She hates Red. -- I wonder who Gina was on the phone with about taking care of Tom? -- Red: <i>If anything were to happen to me, this was to go to Elizabeth. So she'd know. Now I'm not sure I ever want her to know.</i> ... WHAT SECRET, RED??? -- And now it's on hiatus until April 7??? Why, NBC, whyyyyyy?!~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-65282226588048327892016-02-21T17:17:00.000-05:002016-02-25T15:36:41.505-05:00Snapshot from Along the Broken Road: 2016 - Week 7Checking in for the week of February 14 through February 20.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT I READ |</span><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/408854.The_Dark_Tower" target="_blank">The Dark Tower</a> (Stephen King) - Feelings I have had while reading over the last week: Sad (over the loss of a character), devastated (over the loss of another), heartbroken (over two characters mourning the loss of the second aforementioned character), unsure (of the introduction of a new character), fascinated (by the meeting that is taking place), trepidatious (because I know it's just a matter of time until there is more loss and also the return of a character that squicks me out), and bewildered (at how this is all going to play out). I have roughly half the final book in the series remaining. Which sounds like I'm closer to finished than I actually am.<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15803233-the-ambassador-s-daughter" target="_blank">The Ambassador's Daughter</a> (Pam Jenoff) - My lunchtime reading material at work. It's a little slow to get off the ground. I'm unclear if that's the fault of the book or the fact that I'm not able to read at a consistent pace, since it's only during the work week, and only after I've finished the week's chapter of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16054274-the-story" target="_blank">The Story</a> for church.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT WE ATE|</span><br />
I'm a really big fan of my <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/10/pumpkin-chili.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Chili</a>, which I made on Sunday, when I could allow it to really simmer away for several hours, instead of the shortened timeframe I give it if I make it during the week. It's still good either way, but the longer cooking time really gives it more depth. Monday, we roasted a whole chicken, and served that with <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2014/05/garlic-parmesan-orzo_7.html" target="_blank">Garlic Parmesan Orzo</a> and <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2014/04/buttery-garlic-green-beans.html" target="_blank">Buttery Garlic Green Beans</a> -- two super easy sides that are just bursting with tons of flavor! We also made some fish sandwiches, spaghetti and meatballs, and grilled chicken sandwiches, as the week progressed. Saturday, I met up with Krystyn and her family at Magic Kingdom. We did a light lunch (I had mac and cheese topped with toasted panko from Friar's Nook) so we'd have room for dinner at Be Our Guest! I had never eaten there before and it did not disappoint.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CANDLE SCENTS|</span><br />
<b>Merry Cookie (BBW)</b><br />
<b>In a Winter Wonderland (YC)</b> - Fresh air and evergreen trees. Still fully embracing the fact that it's winter!<br />
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<b>Christmas Eve (YC)</b> - (Yeah, yeah, I know.) This is one of those candles that has so many layers of scent that it smells different every time you catch a whiff. Sometimes spicy, sometime sweet, sometimes fruity. It reminds me of being in my grandparents' house when my Gram was baking and cooking goodies for Christmas: just a collection of delicious holiday scents that takes you back to memories of Christmases gone by.</div>
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<b>Hollyberry (YC)</b> - This scent is a classic. It's warm and nostalgic.</div>
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<b>Sparkling Pine (YC)</b> - More fresh air and evergreen. You'd think I miss snow, the way I'm drawn to these scents, but really, I just miss the way the air smells when it cold and crisp with fresh fallen snow.</div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT THIS WEEK LOOKED LIKE|</span><br />
Flowers and chocolate are nice, but this is my kind of Valentine from my Valentine!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wopqSNPJTRdz62SCD2FbJdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Yt7vHAtplJc/VsIpcTmtQEI/AAAAAAADhJY/QtpuonVrV-c/s400-Ic42/IMG_5217.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Almost twilight.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/oQ6Mf4mzcVhwBDCD0KuoANMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1lpotF7PHTs/Vsy1pFMl3kI/AAAAAAADrkQ/i-vVE79izRc/s400-Ic42/IMG_5222.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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After I crested the hill, the sun was a fiery sliver sinking into the tree line.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/XT7tcjasdJ8-1LygmBnnTdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K5Aw50p_G24/Vsy1pJGyxeI/AAAAAAADrkQ/d_XlkQLjC_k/s400-Ic42/IMG_5224.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Can you see the sunbeams? You have to look carefully, but they're there, streaming out from the corner and into the blue. I feel like there's a life metaphor in there somewhere.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/kyBAqa71RBTvAOak8v4PwtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FFW6ZBSyauQ/Vsy1z9w8__I/AAAAAAADrj4/KY-L7Ee5cKk/s400-Ic42/IMG_5230.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Spent Saturday at Magic Kingdom with Krystyn (and her family), and had a great time enjoying rides and attractions. I also got a ton of comments and compliments on my shirt (a Christmas gift, celebrating Disneyland's Diamond 60th anniversary!). I also have to say, I am a huge fan of the "Disney Photo Pass" option being included with my Annual Pass now. I can take advantage of all the in-park photo ops without dropping $15 every time I like one of the photos. I am definitely going to be making good use of the free digital downloads perk!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/g5yYN1n9patBC7UJkuJK59MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wP6TikrzNaI/Vs9ku8HFmlI/AAAAAAADrlA/DdV16FfyEWI/s400-Ic42/PhotoPass_Visiting_Magic_Kingdom_Park_7610479199.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Rosebud napkin at Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom. Disney never misses an opportunity for details.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KIiAMxqtPDnPmpxROJ2js9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LzuamXF3N-s/Vsy1z-YLlkI/AAAAAAADrj4/1obLadj6cLg/s400-Ic42/IMG_5232.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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We ate in the forbidden west wing.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/MTs1KXartCdPYovGVGiP3tMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z0EHjLFSyto/Vsy1z5Oj1kI/AAAAAAADrj4/deW4OunmA60/s400-Ic42/IMG_5255.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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I had the Braised Pork (Coq au Vin Style), which was described as "Eight Hour Slow-cooked Pork with Mushrooms, Onions, Carrots, and Bacon served with Puréed Cauliflower and Seasonal Vegetables." What I can tell you is that every last mouthful was lick-your-plate-clean delicious. The meat was so tender, it was practically melting. The cauliflower puree was loaded with flavor. The broccolini added some fresh, slightly crunchy texture. Did I mention delicious? Because it was.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/gOljPmrJw5gJOIFDzQPo29MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rw0nIsywOzE/Vsy1vaA2LMI/AAAAAAADrkQ/0ZvAHqnze8g/s400-Ic42/IMG_5251.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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I was incredibly conflicted over the dessert cart. There were at least four things I wanted. I narrowed it down to two, but when the server started with me (at our table of six), I still hadn't decided, so I asked him to come back around to me last. I finally determined that, being my first time dining here, I was obligated to try The Grey Stuff (from the menu: "Chocolate Shell, Cookie Crème topped with Lumiere’s special “Grey Stuff”" which was a cookies-and-cream mousse!). The server had been making "Hidden Mickeys" on each dessert plate with melted chocolate. He said I must have known that the last person to order dessert gets the special Mickey rosebud instead. (I didn't, and he may have been pulling my leg or not, but lookit how pretty!) Oh and the dishes do not like. It *is* delicious!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/y8rO3GJeOTpjlLXLG9EZP9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LFqbkTTciAA/Vsy1vTfAllI/AAAAAAADrkQ/3PF3bCTK7-g/s400-Ic42/IMG_5252.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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The enchanted rose.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/qcJtQyQPhVTSSq_jh8wjSdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--hPc0HdeNtc/Vsy1vcTi-_I/AAAAAAADrkQ/GNY28zjJjpg/s400-Ic42/IMG_5258.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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And, of course, I stopped for a photo op with our gracious host!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8_32eRF4GF4WCaMgGNiwWdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nsQPqkGnt1U/Vsy2CyPOAUI/AAAAAAADrkI/FcgB-ZLrvHM/s400-Ic42/IMG_5253.JPG" width="267" /></a>~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-56518600050893808342016-02-20T22:31:00.000-05:002016-02-25T11:49:22.372-05:00This Week on My TV: February 20, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/K-nx_S_01jijuec8QjhyXdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="196" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Njq-L_2Wx6M/UowC5Qoc34I/AAAAAAAC1oI/LnNXLLkKMbk/s288/TVCollage.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Good Wife</i><i>, 7x14 Monday</i>)</span> Eli: <i>It's just now I get why people have children. They can admire themselves in someone else.</i> -- I love everything about the way Alicia and Jason flirt with each other. -- Alicia: <i>How do you keep your beard that length? I mean, at a certain point, you're either clean shaven or you're Abraham Lincoln, right?</i> Jason: <i>Nope, it stays like this. Since birth.</i> -- I was cracking up at the judge on Alicia's case and how he felt about the ant infestation on his bench. -- Oh, there is going to be so much awkwardness with Alicia's "coming back home." -- So, this tip for Alicia that "Peter has a target on his back" and she should just "cash out"... That's going to be all the shove she needs to end up with Jason, isn't it? And with the end of the show fast approaching, it seems like a way they could take the story.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Blue Bloods</i><i>, 6x14 The Road to Hell</i>)</span> I fully agree with Erin. She was right to insist on no special treatment for Nicky while she was being held with her friends on the drugs found in the car. -- Frank: <i>Lots of people have difficult lives, Father. That doesn't give them the right to break the law.</i> -- That was a smooth way to tie the episode together: three cases of people covering up for the guilty party. Nicky with her friend. The priest with the parishioner who stole from the church. And the other girls in the house when the pimp got killed. Three different situations that force you to consider "shades of grey" to various degrees. -- Boy, Danny sure gets a lot of jumpers. I have to say, the camera work really freaked me out on this one though.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Blacklist</i><i>, 3x15 Drexel</i>)</span> Um, why didn't that guy a) tell his friend on the phone there was someone in his house and to call the police and/or b) get himself out the nearest door? -- Red: <i>And then there are different pops entirely. Like the pops you hear when your shoulder's being dislocated</i>. -- Oh, Liz, stop making a scene about every. little. thing. and listen to Red. He's right. --<br />
Why does no one ever jump out of their skin when they come upon Red just sitting there in their homes? They always look annoyed, never startled. -- ::pauses to put a piece of tape over the webcam built into her laptop:: -- Red: <i>People say youth is wasted on the young. I disagree. I believe wisdom is wasted on the old. All you can do is part with it, but very few will take it. Least of all, the people closest to you. They want no part of it.</i> -- Very poetic use of the stormy backdrop while Red was talking to Liz. -- She hates Red. She loves Red. She hates Red. She loves Red. O. M. G. -- Whoa, that piece of art. So dark and angry. Who ordered it? Who told the dealer Red would be there to collect? What, beyond the obvious, are they trying to tell Red? What does that have to do with Rostova?<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Big Bang Theory</i><i>, 9x16 The Positive Negative Reaction</i>)</span> Howard [freaking out over a nanny for the baby]: <i>We can't get an ugly one. It'll scare the kid. </i>-- The reactions from the group were so awesome. I love that they're not being all romantically cliche about the pregnancy. -- Leonard: <i>You know what we should do?</i> Sheldon: <i>All get vasectomies so it doesn't happen to us?</i> -- Drunk Sheldon peeing in the restaurant kitchen. I just can't even. -- Baby Wolowitz was conceived on Sheldon's BED?? And the look on his face when he found *that* out. LOL -- Amy [about Sheldon]: <i>He used a period instead of a question mark. He's so wasted.</i>~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-59255722066114229572016-02-18T14:43:00.000-05:002016-02-18T15:34:20.999-05:00Around Here: February 18, 2016<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current longing?</span></b> For the EPCOT Flower and Garden Fest menus to be released already, so I can plan and drool in anticipation. I mean, seriously. The Fest starts in less than two weeks. We should have these details by now!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current craving?</span></b> A Steak 'n' Shake Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip milkshake. I saw it announced on Facebook earlier this week and now I can't stop thinking about it.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current disappointment?</span></b> It's only Thursday. I kid you not, I've legitimately thought it was Friday at least half a dozen times today and it's presently only 2pm. No fair.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current peeve?</span></b> People. Yep, that's it.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current procrastination?</span></b> Cleaning the bathrooms. I really should have done this on Monday, but Monday was being very Monday-ish and I was still getting over a cold. Tuesday...didn't feel like it. (Honestly, is this something anyone ever "feels like" doing? Doubtful.) Wednesday, I had an evening Lenten service at church. And here we are on Thursday and I know it just needs to get done already. Adulting is not my favorite.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current ear worm?</span></b> Taylor Swift's "You Belong With Me." I don't know either. I think my subconscious is serenading Friday.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current favorite?</span></b> The weather. 60s and 70s during the day. 40s and 50s at night. That "National Hate Florida Day" thing everyone shares on Facebook 4,722 times each winter? Now is when you should hate Florida. It's glorious.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current anticipation?</span></b> Hanging out at WDW with <a href="http://13myblogmylife13.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Krystyn </a>(and family) on Saturday!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current need?</span></b> One of those Men in Black flashy mind eraser things. I use a glass water bottle for work that I fill at home instead of the yucky bottled water my employer provides that tastes like plastic or water cooler that maybe hasn't been cleaned since it was installed (gag). About a half hour ago, I noticed something I couldn't identify sitting in the bottom of my water bottle. No clue how long it was in there. WHILE I WAS DRINKING. If I don't survive, it's been a pleasure. I'm so grossed out.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Current confusion?</span></b> Carrot cake flavored Hershey Kisses. In fact, I don't understand this whole trend of making one food taste like a different food. I don't mean peanut butter or raspberry or mint. I mean other actual foods. If I wanted a piece of carrot cake, I would eat...wait for it...carrot cake.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-15047858801830119682016-02-14T09:04:00.000-05:002016-02-15T14:56:18.790-05:00Snapshot from Along the Broken Road: 2016 - Week 6Checking in for the week of February 7 through February 13.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT I READ |</span><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/408854.The_Dark_Tower" target="_blank">The Dark Tower</a> (Stephen King) - I made a little progress, but not as much as I would have liked, what with being stricken with a cold all week.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT WE ATE|</span><br />
We decided to get subs from the Publix deli for Super Bowl Sunday. Monday, T made up some goulash. Tuesday, we had pork chops and, despite being under the weather, I tried a new recipe for <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2016/02/broccoli-blue-cheese-bake.html" target="_blank">Broccoli Blue Cheese Bake</a>, which was good, but I've already changed the recipe to increase the amount of blue cheese, since neither of us could really taste it at all. We also had <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/05/tortellini-florentine-soup.html" target="_blank">Tortellini Florentine Soup</a> one night, and made calzones on Friday.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CANDLE SCENTS|</span><br />
<b>Merry Cookie (BBW)</b><br />
<b>Celebrate Christmas (YC)</b> - I realize it's long past Christmas, but this is still an excellent winter scent. And it's a completely unexpected combination of fruit and spice. I love it!<br />
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<b>French Vanilla (YC)</b> - Total classic and one of T's favorite.</div>
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<b>Snow Is Glistening (YC)</b> - I love this one in the bathroom. Like fresh air with a hint of baby powder.</div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT THIS WEEK LOOKED LIKE|</span><br />
I wanted hot chocolate. What I got instead was hot honey lemon water. Being sick, thumbs down.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/BJZWDA2mPtZyCi2G7DX2EdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Btj8yNxqFcs/VsIpceV0wTI/AAAAAAADhJY/jsDB0fu_w40/s400-Ic42/IMG_5202.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Huge jet, circling low. (It was a military plane performing landing and takeoff exercises at the nearby regional airport.)<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/YtoqL9bPx5GrvyTijcOYmtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OoaSD2d0b8g/VsIpcdKHgCI/AAAAAAADhJY/P-QiupiJsLA/s400-Ic42/IMG_5205.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Ash Wednesday.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/7f7iL6RSdxk09gkReR7tH9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5lGsuejCD0Y/VsIpceGpXoI/AAAAAAADhJY/iCj1XJwGBco/s400-Ic42/IMG_5214.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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And thus concludes a short sick week, because no one wants photos of a mountain of used tissues.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-32250281389774149952016-02-13T21:00:00.000-05:002016-02-18T20:50:48.990-05:00This Week on My TV: February 13, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!<br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/K-nx_S_01jijuec8QjhyXdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="196" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Njq-L_2Wx6M/UowC5Qoc34I/AAAAAAAC1oI/LnNXLLkKMbk/s288/TVCollage.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Blacklist</i><i>, 3x14 Lady Ambrosia</i>)</span> You know this "weird families in the woods with wild children" seems to be a recurrent theme for this show. -- Red at the DMV, looking around in distaste at "that petri dish of humanity." LOL (That's how I feel about work.) -- Good Lord. I thought Liz was going to burn the waffles, not burn the building down trying to make them. -- Oh, Tom. You *idiot*. -- Red looks positively heartbroken by Liz wanting to give up her baby. -- Dogs. For Glen. BAHAHAHAHA. -- I bet Lizzie is grateful for Red's protection now that it saved her butt once again. -- I had a working theory that the teacher to whom Red paid a visit was Lizzie's mom. Her accent. This file Red was after. The mention of him bringing her daughter back. What she said about loving her husband despite what he did. And then that story Red told Liz about her parents, about how, though it pained him, he thought Lizzie's mother's true love was Lizzie's father, no matter what he had done. And then I realized it was just more red herring parallels, because Anya was the teacher's missing daughter and her husband has obviously put their daughter up for "adoption," sending her to creepy Lady Ambrosia. Rats. -- CARNIVOROUS BUTTERFLIES?? -- That little kid who found bloody Tom in the shower is likely scarred for life now. Way to go, Tom. -- Lady Ambrosia: <i>Who the hell are you?</i> Red: <i>Her fairy godmother. I hear it's her birthday. We've come to celebrate.</i> -- Hmmmm. That file Red got from Anya's mother said ROSTOVA. I wonder what we're going to learn about in there...and when. -- It's looking more and more like Liz isn't going to be able to go through with giving up her baby. -- I have a continuity question. This episode supposedly took place right after the previous one, based on Tom just finishing that big job, right? So how did Liz go from not looking pregnant to looking noticeably pregnant in that amount of time?<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Big Bang Theory</i><i>, 9x15 The Valentino Submergence</i>)</span> Raj: <i>You say that like it's easy. Have any of you *ever* broken up with anyone?</i> -- Howard: <i>Sorry, but too hot is the only temperature I come in.</i> ... O.M.G the shimmy. Am I laughing? Am I horrified? -- Amy [to the Fun with Flags caller]: <i>No, I just blink a lot. It's not Morse Code for 'rescue me'.</i> -- Bernadette [after Howard got bit by the rabbit they saved from their new hot tub]: <i>Well, why'd you put your finger near its mouth?</i> Howard: <i>Poor judgment obviously!</i> -- Howard: <i>When I sat on the mute button and thought I'd gone deaf *that* was my hypochondria.</i> -- I thought Sheldon was going to propose to Amy when he was being so sweet at the end. Guess not. -- OMG OMG BERNADETTE!!! A little nerd baby!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Downton Abbey</i><i>, season 1</i>)</span> After finishing the first season, I have some thoughts. -- Characters I really like: Anna, Mr Bates, Matthew, and Lady Mary. -- Characters I definitely do *not* like: Thomas, O'Brien, Daisy, and Lady Edith. -- Violet makes me laugh. -- I feel like Carson and Mrs Hughes would be very fair to work under, but I'm a little scared of Mrs Patmore. -- I cannot believe the Crawley's dress like that for dinner every night! -- Like Carson, I have a soft spot for Lady Mary. I can't imagine the pressures of balancing who she is expected to marry and why with how she feels. And despite his cool demeanor, I think Matthew has genuine feelings for Mary as well. -- My heart nearly broke for Mr Bates and Anna. -- I cannot decipher why some of the help is referred to by simply their last name, others get a Mr or Mrs before it, and still others go by their first names.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-66247784397069389942016-02-07T22:30:00.000-05:002016-02-16T13:20:36.766-05:00Snapshot from Along the Broken Road: 2016 - Week 5Checking in for the week of January 31 through February 6.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT I READ |</span><br />
The Dark Tower (Stephen King) - Still plugging away at this beast. I have to admit that this book has been more gross and disturbing, for me, than most of the other previous six. I'm too committed to the series to not find out how it ends, but I'll be glad when I'm done with this one.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT WE ATE|</span><br />
We went to Olive Garden, after seeing a movie on Sunday afternoon, and actually *didn't* get the soup-salad-breadsticks deal. I got MEAL and it was so *so* good. During the week, we had BLTs; ravioli and a salad; linguine with clam sauce; and some leftover beef stroganoff from the freezer (which was a test that it passed! yay for freezer friendly meals!). Saturday, we finally got around to trying a new recipe I've wanted to try for ages -- <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2016/02/spaghetti-squash-alfredo-with-pancetta.html" target="_blank">Spaghetti Squash Alfredo with Pancetta and Peas</a> -- which we had with some grilled marinated chicken thighs.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CANDLE SCENTS|</span><br />
<b>White Christmas (YC)</b><br />
<b>Christmas Cookie (YC)</b> - Buttery sugar cookies smell delicious.<br />
<b>Luscious Plum (YC)</b> - I think this one is one of the biggest surprises for me. It's sweet and fruity without being summery and I like that. It's a great change of pace for the winter's plethora of "fresh" and "spicy" scents.<br />
<b>Frolic and Play (YC)</b> - Spearmint is such a fun twist on the season's typical use of peppermint.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT THIS WEEK LOOKED LIKE|</span><br />
This particular Sunday sunrise demanded I break out the big girl camera, instead of just my phone.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/e6-wNaDzZn3wtlCJMi9n19MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ndptm7bVrZs/VrKryv-F3OI/AAAAAAADQSk/AGh_kdgTc4Q/s400-Ic42/IMG_2219.JPG" width="267" /></a><br />
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Retro calendar art for February at home.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/3pmHeMF6lel4cuaLHfN069MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b6uoR3yLlLI/VrKnN8ahGuI/AAAAAAADQR4/es-GAdyow3g/s400-Ic42/IMG_5195.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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And at work.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/r9D1PZ-DDyuD4q0eh90zyNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9YosPady8L8/VrKnN3cOtTI/AAAAAAADQR4/wMgDqIYY5tg/s400-Ic42/IMG_5197.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Super fog! There's a building directly across the street from that utility pole.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/k-uYzt4XSS0vRFEF7m5azNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7f_Sr74eUbE/VrKnN1rbBdI/AAAAAAADQR4/LmyT-HRGgaM/s400-Ic42/IMG_5198.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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These cookies came in my holiday Try the World box and they tasted like the cookies my Gram would make with her leftover pie crust dough. Such an unexpected happiness.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/32hmsRITJuo4cNjS1PRhWdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EX8cGi2FSTE/VrKnN28Q5PI/AAAAAAADQR4/s8tc6StlSXE/s400-Ic42/IMG_5181.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Morning has broken.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ijTt-d1HCmWrX_f6OAogZtMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="267" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JIeJxCfHnr8/VrM-Bf7tvmI/AAAAAAADQTg/9Kqz9nRhMso/s400-Ic42/IMG_2224.JPG" width="400" /></a>~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-50064183016922003522016-02-06T22:29:00.000-05:002016-02-16T11:30:49.313-05:00This Week on My TV: February 6, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!<br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/K-nx_S_01jijuec8QjhyXdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="196" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Njq-L_2Wx6M/UowC5Qoc34I/AAAAAAAC1oI/LnNXLLkKMbk/s288/TVCollage.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Good Wife</i><i>, 7x13 Judged</i>)</span> Lucca [to Jason]: <i>Your smile thing, your bedroom eyes, BS. Oh, I'm just a guy's guy, I don't know what I do to women.</i> ... OMG, yes! Oh, that is so him! That is snort-laugh funny. -- Jeffrey Dean Morgan is the best thing to happen to this show. I'm still not over Finn Polmar, probably never will be, but I do love me some Jason Crouse and his cat-that-ate-the-canary facial expressions. -- Alicia needs to find a way to let this Will thing go. See a therapist, get some bedroom activities, whatever. But this mooning over what cannot be changed is unhealthy. -- The opposing student in Diane's case saying he felt "under attack, disrespected, unsafe"...This is the problem with society, this self-victimization and inability to function as soon as someone disagrees with us. -- Lucca [about Jason]: <i>He's a friend.</i> Alicia: <i>How close a friend?</i> Lucca: <i>Seriously, are you going to hate the whole world right now? </i>-- Lucca [to Alicia]: <i>I don't like people. But I like you.</i> ... This is how I feel about my band of friends. -- Dean Randolph: <i>Part of learning how to make decisions is learning how to live with poor decisions.</i> -- It's like legal in*est, the way Alicia and Cary always end up representing each other. -- Whaaa...??? Those Jason and Alicia kisses. Steeeeeamyyyy. -- Jason's affirmative "uh-yuh" gets me. Every. Time. -- And about the kssing, as well as getting back to my earlier remark about Alicia. Amazing how she started to pull herself together after getting some lip action. -- Eli at Alicia's door, pouring out his heart to her. Oh, my heart. I wanted to hug him, with his teary eyes. What an excellent scene. Right down to the look he gave Alicia's door as he walked away. -- I really wanted to kick Bernie in the...shins. What a jerk. -- When Lucca said "we got shafted by the Brotherhood of the Robe," I wanted to cheer. Because I had just said the same thing to T about the judges being such a "boys' club," that Lucca's phrasing was spectacular. -- Alicia: <i>Well...you should do what's best for you. </i>Jason: <i>Yeah, well, sometimes, I can't tell what that is.</i> -- Boy, Cary's offer for Alicia to "come home" as a junior partner and they would bail her out of all her malpractice suit woes sure fixes it so everyone benefits, right down to Jason being able to accept Diane's offer to work for them exclusively.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Big Bang Theory</i><i>, 9x14 The Meemaw Materialization</i>)</span> Meemaw! I really hope she's going to be a character we see again from time to time. She was hilarious. -- Howard: <i>I'm just saying instead of let it go, she should have sang look at me hiding in a freezer like a Dove bar.</i> -- Meemaw gets to sit in Sheldon's spot! --<br />
Ummm, Raj is talking to a girl...while sober. -- Raj: <i>I wouldn't say she's beautiful.</i> Howard: <i>Really...you don't think she's attractive?</i> Raj: <i>I do. I just wouldn't tell my girlfriend!</i> -- Penny: <i>Are you sure I can't pour you some wine?</i> Meemaw: <i>Oh, no wine for me. Sheldon's bringing me my whiskey.</i> Sheldon: <i>Here you go, Meemaw. I made it just how you like it: a lot...in a glass.</i> -- OMG I forgot Amy doesn't know about the ring! -- Claire: <i>We're adults. We can still get together without it meaning anything.</i> Raj: <i>Not me. Ever since you admitted we had a vibe, I've been planning our wedding</i>. ... Whoa, whoa, whoa. Is Raj seriously thinking about pursuing this for real??<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Blacklist</i><i>, 3x13 Alistair Pitt</i>)</span> Why do people in shows always crouch behind tables , like that is supposed to protect them from gunfire? -- Liz [to Samar]: <i>Swag for mommy dot com? Who *are* you?</i> -- This Paris scene with Red and this woman (lover?) with the Christmas tree and the snow falling outside really got to me for some reason. Red: I<i> can protect you. All you need to do is ask.</i> -- Red: <i>Honestly, if I paid taxes, I'd be outraged.</i> -- "I think it's romantic to forgive someone you love." I really like Aram. Have I mentioned that? His lines fly under the radar but are nearly as good as Red's lately. -- "Do you have any cookies?" Never change, Red. -- "Comrade Rostova" -- this agent is a jerk. -- Seriously, Tom? You're back to Gina? You, unlike Red, *should* change. -- I found it completely disconcerting to see Tony Shalhoub in this criminal role! I guess he'll always be Monk to me.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-56847217110122787692016-02-04T12:36:00.000-05:002016-02-04T13:57:46.916-05:00Some Things: February 4, 2016<b>ONE<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span> </b>"...stubborn souls refusing to confront their secret fears..." I read this in <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16054274-the-story" target="_blank">The Story</a>, which we're doing for church (one chapter a week for thirty-one weeks, and then the sermon is based on the chapter read). It just resonated with me and stuck in my mind. I am so guilty of this.<br />
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<b>TWO<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> Did I ever tell you about the time (ahem...last week) a rogue termite found his way into our house and started snacking on our entertainment center? Thank heaven they're sloppy eaters. T went to work on a search and destroy mission. We believe him to be deceased and see no evidence he called his buddies over for a party. Honest to God, I didn't know "there's a termite in the entertainment center" was on the list of things I never wanted to hear when I arrived home from work, but suffice to say, yep, on the list.<br />
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<b>THREE<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> Is anyone else picturing cartoon termites devouring everything made of wood in a three mile radius in twenty seconds flat now?<br />
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<b>FOUR<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> That "not a robot" feature on Blogger comments? Best. Thing. Ever. After weeding through a dozen (or more!) of them per day, I haven't had to moderate a single spammy comment since I activated it. Which means, now that I'm calling attention to it, that will probably change. But either way, it's nice as long as it lasts!<br />
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<b>FIVE<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> I got called for jury duty at the end of the month. The Friday before I'm scheduled to report, I have to call in to see if they still need me there. Truth be told, I'm kind of hoping they tell me I'm not dismissed, because that means I get to sit there are read a large portion of my day. It's my fourth time receiving a summons and I've always had to report. I got selected for a jury one of those times. I truly don't mind doing my civic duty. It's just a really long day, with a lot of sitting around.<br />
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<b>SIX<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> So. On Tuesday, I had my annual ::ahem:: exam. (All clear, pending lab results, thank God.) But anyway, I'm lying there, staring at the ceiling, because, well, ya know, and there's music playing quietly in the sound system, and it starts playing "I've Had the Time of My Life," you know, from Dirty Dancing, and it was all I could do not to burst out laughing, because, well...No. Definitely not. I mean, I have a really great doctor and all, but...nope.<br />
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<b>SEVEN<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> Speaking of...that. We (my doctor and I) discussed relevant topics, and it made me realize that I am such a Libra, even when it comes to the issue of childbearing. It occurred to me, on any given day, I could be anywhere from "hmmm...maybe I'd like to have a baby" to "uhhh...maybe not." I mean, you've seen babies, right? They're cute and squishy. And on a less junior high-ish note, there's something to be said for a little tiny piece of you and your husband becoming a member of this world. But then there's that really freaky Zika virus (it may be international, right now, but do you know how many mosquitoes are in Florida YEAR ROUND?? I've killed three in the past week, <i>in the house</i>, IN FEBRUARY) and the fact that I'm eight months away from turning forty and that life is really easy as it is (selfish but honest -- I'm not stupid, I know babies disrupt everything, no matter how worth it they are) and holy crap, the cost of childcare and providing health insurance alone are staggering. But then someone posts a photo of their baby on social media and the ovaries weigh in (the ovaries like babies). But then someone else has horrific morning sickness or a child with a stomach virus or a broken arm. And the seesaw rocks back and forth. And I really just... Maybe this is why people have kids when they're young: they haven't lived enough life, yet, to overthink it to the point of saying "your ball, Mother Nature, I've got no clue what I want." (I know, I know. Everyone has an opinion on this topic. "You're too old!" "Just do it, you'll never regret it!" I'm not looking for advice. I'm just telling you what this thought process looks like inside my head. It's ridiculous. Also, whoever approved me for this "being an adult" thing really ought to have their license revoked.)<br />
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<b>EIGHT<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> Moving on but also ridiculous. We had to run our a/c yesterday. Because it was 84 and humid. On February 3. That gets a big ol' Stink Eye from me. There are people who love the six months of Florida summer. I am not one of them. They got their six months (eight, more recently!). Now I want mine. And it includes NOT RUNNING THE AIR CONDITIONING.<br />
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<b>NINE<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> Next month starts Flower and Garden Fest at EPCOT. I am already salivating, thinking about what delectable treats are in store for me.<br />
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<b>TEN<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> We went to see The Revenant on Sunday. The scenery shots were incredible. There were parts that were really difficult to watch. There's not much for levity. DiCaprio managed to convey countless emotions and thoughts with very few spoken words. But what's stuck with me the longest is wanting to know how they made that bear scene.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-59828967230107953172016-01-31T23:29:00.000-05:002016-02-04T10:19:58.734-05:00Snapshot from Along the Broken Road: 2016 - Week 4Checking in for the week of January 24 through January 30.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT I READ|</span><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/408854.The_Dark_Tower" target="_blank">The Dark Tower</a> (Stephen King) - This book (and the whole series, really) is so trippy. I can't even imagine what it's like to live with the things that go on in King's mind. I'm trying to decide how to handle the fact that I'm not toting this brick back and forth with me, so I only get reading done before bed at night. Some days, I'm bringing The Story with me, so I can get my reading done for the coming Sunday's church focus, but often that only lasts me a couple of days. I don't typically read two books at once, but I am thinking of starting a second book that's more easily transported, so that I a) have something with me to read, and b) I'm not falling *way* behind on my 2016 goal. I'm hoping if I start a book that's drastically different from this one (shouldn't be a problem, since I don't read *anything* else even remotely like this series), I won't feel like I'm getting stories crossed in my mind.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT WE ATE|</span><br />
Other than the tasty treats in the photos below, this week's food intake included: tuna sandwiches; grilled chicken wraps; a pizza with lots of veggies on it; grilled cheese with tomato soup; a new recipe for slow cooker broccoli cheese soup (I'm pretty sure all the cheese negates any health benefits from the broccoli, but this soup was also really very yummy); and barbecue ribs with baked beans and <a href="http://playinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/04/cole-slaw.html" target="_blank">coleslaw</a>.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">CANDLE SCENTS|</span><br />
<b>White Christmas (YC)</b><br />
<b>Merry Cookie (BBW)</b> - Switching to this one, in our bedroom, even though White Christmas is only half gone. I was in the mood for something a little "warmer."<br />
<b>Christmas Cookie (YC)</b> - Sensing a theme here?<br />
<b>Luscious Plum (YC)</b> - I love how unexpected this scent is for the winter. It's fruity, but not in the way a summer fruit scent, or even an autumn one, would be. Much like the far more commonly used cranberry, there's a tartness, that seems right for this time of year, and also a "coolness" to the scent that I can't really describe in any other way.<br />
<b>Build a Snowman (YC)</b> - Fresh and minty and just very fun. I love minty scents in the winter.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">WHAT THIS WEEK LOOKED LIKE|</span><br />
I should warn you now. I apparently made up for some slow photo weeks with this one. Oops.<br />
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Proof we don't run our heat in the not-summer. ;-) I love that I can make use of my fuzzy blanket and my slippers, and it's the best for sleeping!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/aufkKYEO3L2kKFhN3fTYPNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a4ysv7gDvWE/VqeP3YEoKiI/AAAAAAADQKQ/OZ1ZMRqDBy8/s400-Ic42/IMG_5126.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Best socks ever? Best socks ever. (So comfy and they're Red Sox socks!) (FYI: It's really difficult to get your feet in the Red Sox logo position.)<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/6pi7RxHDgD9LA_p_NzAYfdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MSo7PeJufi4/VqeP6q39VMI/AAAAAAADQKQ/53F4STaZNdU/s400-Ic42/IMG_5127.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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One of my birthday gifts, this past October, was a subscription to "Try the World." Every other month, I get a box full of goodies to taste. This one was from the Spain box and I wasn't sure it was going to be something I liked all that much. I was very wrong. Light and crumbly, like a crumb cake, with this lemon jam-like filling. Just goes to show: you don't know til you try!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/lA5pokFfRO5pKAdl6TbG5NMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lu9W2cPrMB8/VqeQCWYZN3I/AAAAAAADQKQ/60M8mwTZBJY/s400-Ic42/IMG_5130.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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It was raining for my Animal Kingdom adventure, so only my iPhone camera. But the lion was up!! Demands to be documented.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/IsQi84a6BzJQ78y-N_SVvNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-POuAO4UE2as/VrKoicWWt8I/AAAAAAADQQs/EjgR6yhRTqw/s400-Ic42/IMG_5182.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Horrible photo quality, but I had no idea there were *two* lionesses! When all you ever see of the lions are the occasional ear or paws or the top of a mane, you assume the habitat is one male and one female. The animals were *loving* the cool, damp weather though.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/PKrjgdVV2SUgMdUGyPH8rNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ri6fk76zQJQ/VrKoi0NCY9I/AAAAAAADQQs/cukN3KUn7y4/s400-Ic42/IMG_5183.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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This regal lady is 18 years old. There are only two of the original five Asian tigers remaining at Animal Kingdom (all were female), and both of these beauties are advanced in years. There are two Sumatran tigers (a male and a female, I believe? don't quote me) in another area, but I wonder if they will try to get some new Asian tigers for the future. Who knows, maybe they already have?<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zrEifzcGutjmJEkN3SZxfNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WI4GboM9E54/VrKoj3tQfqI/AAAAAAADQQs/nOtuuBshuL0/s400-Ic42/IMG_5184.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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I have a problem. It's resisting the Wok-Fried Green Beans at <a href="https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/animal-kingdom/yak-and-yeti-restaurant/" target="_blank">Yak and Yeti</a>. I honestly think I could make an entire meal of these things.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/9hAJzyEXzp0FKLknUrIKoNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8g_hyZiZwzY/VrKoklifvUI/AAAAAAADQQs/AGpVsc4bRSY/s400-Ic42/IMG_5199.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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This was the Mandarin Chicken Salad I got as my meal. I am not even kidding you, I think they used fourteen heads of lettuce to make this thing. I never actually saw the plate, even though I ate...and ate...and ate.<br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/nzGjyvrJ-xgWBhWQGQB019MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YJpPtGbTzNU/VrKolrCBF5I/AAAAAAADQQs/p8ccEaAPM9Q/s400-Ic42/IMG_5185.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Tee hee!<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/vWoM1uSm7DHoc6JrcYX6tNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AFSSb4scyPA/VrKomK-rYtI/AAAAAAADQQs/gfTuJoq3QHM/s400-Ic42/IMG_5150.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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You know WDW has done a good job integrating new buildings when you have to stop and question whether or not this is a new gift shop. (It is.)<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/EmbrozvyElvUV9yQBzBSvNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rh9fvXktCrA/VrKonDm9mZI/AAAAAAADQQs/hjuSuPOdSKs/s400-Ic42/IMG_5186.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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I was completely enamored with this mosaic in the entry to the Riverside Depot. How awesome are those colors? I opted to share a mosaic-only shot on Instagram, but I like this one too, because it tells me a little more about my day. For instance, I can tell you, based on the shoes I'm wearing, that it was not-summer and rainy.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/IkJVyMfsXSURVFWEVghlotMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0VmMJKLo2AI/VrKooCFnDeI/AAAAAAADQQs/-cBkiJQSdUY/s400-Ic42/IMG_5187.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Turtle.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/pEWVr2ez-TMvQF_fhiprr9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KXHUMPBVOLg/VrKor2tF8gI/AAAAAAADQQs/8ZSife_pSug/s400-Ic42/IMG_5190.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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I loved this mural and lighting fixture. This park, especially, is just a total feast for the eyes.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/XfEqLaEMfyfx5mbWB2xM_tMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UyFRrnxa16Y/VrKosaJ34XI/AAAAAAADQQs/5lI_tNPdZjM/s400-Ic42/IMG_5191.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Dinner! I've only eaten <a href="https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/grand-floridian-resort-and-spa/citricos/" target="_blank">here</a> one other time, ages ago, so it was a fun treat to go back with Nichole and Tracy.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/py5BEFc_Z0VAnKGLucG8hNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eFMaiOxnDfs/VrKos_LqL4I/AAAAAAADQQs/CU5b0ZKh8WA/s400-Ic42/IMG_5192.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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I got the Ashley Farms Chicken Sous Vide with Tuscan-style Polenta, Cippolini-Green Bean Ragoùt, and Chicken Jus. And I had to refrain from licking my plate.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/kZ6gl-9wnoaA7f8WC0IL39MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-63l1ObPm2bc/VrKouN8fpPI/AAAAAAADQQs/1znutR_m4VU/s400-Ic42/IMG_5193.JPG" width="300" /></a>~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-76111532583302230882016-01-30T21:03:00.000-05:002016-02-04T08:59:21.923-05:00This Week on My TV: January 30, 2016Disclaimer: Consider the fact that there could be spoilers ahead. You read at your own risk!<br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/K-nx_S_01jijuec8QjhyXdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="196" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Njq-L_2Wx6M/UowC5Qoc34I/AAAAAAAC1oI/LnNXLLkKMbk/s288/TVCollage.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Madam Secretary</i><i>, 2x11 Unity Node</i>)</span> Ok so it was Maria Ostrov that was in the vehicle that went ka-BOOM! It obviously couldn't have been Elizabeth, since, hello, show is actually about her. But I won't try to pretend I wasn't a little bit worried that it wasn't someone on her staff or possibly Henry. -- You know (if you read these) that I think the writers do an excellent job constructing Henry and Elizabeth's marriage. The banter, the intimacy, the way they interact; it's all very believable. But even the fighting is done well. Part of it is, obviously, on the actors to execute the scene, but it starts with good writing, and that's what it is. -- So, it's official. Dmitri is dead. And now I'm sad...for him, for his sister, for Henry. -- I wonder if Henry is *really* out of spying or if they are going to make it impossible for him to extract himself. -- Elizabeth: <i>Maybe that should be my epitaph, "she tried her best, but people still got hurt."</i> Henry: <i>Not "she liked eating popcorn at really weird times?"</i><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>The Blacklist</i><i>, 3x12 The Vehm</i>)</span> That may be the weirdest opening scene ever, with the clown getting murdered. -- So...I have a question. Who had Liz and Tom's dog that whole time?? -- Red: <i>You confiscated her firearm.</i> Ressler: <i>Oh, so you think a convicted felon should be allowed to carry guns?</i> Red: <i>All the ones I know do.</i> -- LOL! Aram sent Lizzie "trashy novels" while she recuperated. He's the best. -- Red's known about the pregnancy for some time?? Does the man miss *nothing*? -- Observation: It's bizarre to see some guy in riot gear show up with a vase of white roses. -- "Doting husband with rock hard abs." You're so modest, Tom. -- I keep trying to figure this out. How did the ME know the castration was self-inflicted? -- Gerald: <i>What the hell is this?</i> Red: <i>A terrible time of year to go camping, but I suppose we do what we must when we're on the run.</i> -- OMG LOL Red at the campfire singalong. He's such a trip. -- Samar: <i>Are you drinking Communion wine?</i> Red: Y<i>es, it's God awful. If they'd only switch to a good Burgundy, people would be much more devout.</i> ... OMG, he's so irreverent. And I know I should be appalled (I am) but his remarks slay me! -- Red: <i>Hell hath no fury like a fundamentalist scorned</i>. -- That was a beautiful speech Red gave Liz about her mother. Even though she's back to being a brat. Sometimes, I really want to shake Liz. One minute she wants Red to go away and leave her alone forever, and then someone comes after her with malicious intent, and suddenly she's clinging to him like her life depends on it. -- Samar: <i>I don't deserve a friend like you.</i> Aram: <i>Maybe not...but you have one.</i> -- Aram is such a good guy. He's just there for anyone on the team, without question. -- Wow. Red has protection set up for Liz, despite her bratty behavior. (Of course he does.) He'll take care of her, ungrateful snot or otherwise. She should make note of that.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**(<i>Last Man Standing</i><i>, 5x14 The Ring</i>)</span> Nothing long and rambling, but how adorable are Mandy and Kyle?? I love that they're engaged. And how they got engaged. And that Mandy has grown up, at least a little bit.~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9792137.post-4136908282750352562016-01-26T15:53:00.003-05:002016-01-26T15:53:29.490-05:00Top Ten Tuesday: January 26, 2016
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Tuesday seems like a good time to push through the post-weekend blahs and focus on something positive. Like the top ten best parts of my last week. </div>
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<b>ONE<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> We've had this wonderfully brisk weather (which about half of Floridians embrace and the other half lament). We don't turn on our heat, which means it's been perfect for snuggling up on the couch under a mountain of blankets with my favorite guy. We're pretty much nothing but a heap of plush in various colors and two pairs of eyeballs.</div>
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<b>TWO<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> Having a text conversation with a friend who's pregnant and actually hearing her glow just through the words on my tiny phone screen. You know those people who are such a rare gift to this world that you feel lucky just for knowing them? The sort of people who deserve nothing but the very best life has to offer? And then when they get it, your heart near to bursts, because their joy brings *you* so much happiness? That's the kind of person we're talking about here. </div>
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<b>THREE<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> I take great joy in sending my friends happy mail. Who doesn't like an unexpected treat to arrive with their name on it? I found the perfect little something for a sweet friend and then danced around with glee all week, waiting for it to arrive on her doorstep.</div>
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<b>FOUR<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> On Saturday, I spent the day with friends at WDW. We laughed. Like, a lot. At points, the gasping sort of laughter that leaves you hunched over, clutching your stomach, and unable to properly inhale air. At one point, we stopped for some people watching and beverages at Mizner's Lounge in the Grand Floridian. We scored ourselves a little table and proceeded to chat and laugh over who knows what. A sweet older gentleman approached our table, just to tell us how much he and his wife were enjoying our interaction. I believe in laughter. It has magical powers.</div>
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<b>FIVE<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> I renewed my WDW Annual Pass. Nothing like guaranteeing yourself another year of your happy place.</div>
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<b>SIX<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> So, I'm minding my business on Sunday, doing my weekly Target shopping. I round a corner and come face to face with Justin Verlander. (For those of you who just went 'huh?' He's a professional baseball player for the Detroit Tigers.) I did one of those tires-squealing double takes, so violent that I felt like I tweaked my neck. He's clearly in the area, since this is where his team spring trains. (I guess I can't 100% verify it was him, since he was in street clothes, and I afforded the man the privacy to do his Target shopping unaccosted, but unless he has an identical twin, I'd bet money that was him.) Anyway, that made me happy, because it means baseball is coming.</div>
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<b>SEVEN<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> I mentioned the weather. My favorite time to walk in the evenings is when the air is chilly. It's refreshing and invigorating. It makes my cheeks feel rosy and puts some pep in my step, after the eternal oppression of humidity that leaves me sluggish. I just walk along, face to the wind, grinning. (I'm pretty sure my husband thinks he married a lunatic at that point. Oh well, he stuck with me now.)</div>
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<b>EIGHT<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> I stumbled upon a bunch of <a href="http://www.positivityblog.com/index.php/2016/01/13/friendship-quotes/" target="_blank">friendship quotes</a>. I've been reading them a few at a time, savoring them. I'm about halfway through. My favorite, so far, is "Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything." (Muhammad Ali)</div>
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<b>NINE<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> Someone I follow on Twitter posted this picture. It's become my new go-to and it's the best response to so many things. It's even better than an emoji, because it's a *dog*. And I can't stop laughing. </div>
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/rnWaelLIo1dMhOMi6VA-m9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img height="261" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s3WNhnRIfBc/VqfcHCgRzwI/AAAAAAADQJc/umw_vjYYDDc/s400-Ic42/IMG_5114.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>TEN<span style="color: #cc0000;">|</span></b> A good book, a soft blanket, a lighted candle, and a square of Ghirardelli chocolate.</div>
~**Dawn**~http://www.blogger.com/profile/06179560051128719637noreply@blogger.com4