tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5956331275747666062024-02-06T20:55:01.132-05:00Swank.Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-14236756111719235372012-11-04T10:01:00.000-05:002012-11-04T10:01:09.227-05:00Week 1 of giving thanks...<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
Thankful for...</div>
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1. Larry Fedora. </div>
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I had a good feeling about this man since day 1, and I am proud to have him join the Tarheel family as an unbelievable role model, leader, and coach. Larry, you got tha swag.</div>
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2. My job.</div>
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I am so blessed to have such a great job. I have not only made great friendships at work, but I have learned what a good boss looks like, and how important it is to love your job. I am growing so much and even on the longest of days, I still feel so lucky to be where I am.</div>
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3. Breakfast foods.</div>
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Well, to me this doesn't need an explanation. Anything with bacon, cheese, and carbs wins me over real fast.</div>
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4. Fall fashion.</div>
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Ya'll. There is not much better than layers, boots, more layers, blazers, and scarves. I just love it all. </div>
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5. My boyfriend.</div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This guy is the most patient, loving person I know. He is forgiving, never judges others, and has the biggest heart. I have seen him do things for complete strangers that most people can't fathom doing for people they know. Thanks for being this way. I love you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">6. Hot showers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">To most people, this is part of everyday life. To a lot of other people, this is a major luxury. Next time it's cold outside and you get to stand in a hot shower with soap and shampoo, be extra thankful, knowing that there are some people who would give anything to count on having that every day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">7. Good books.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">One of my favorite things to do, especially when it's cold out, is to read. I literally get giddy some nights when I know I get to crawl into my sheets with a candle burning and a great book. To me, it's the best part of being out of college. </span>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-3581311888598367962012-09-13T10:22:00.001-04:002012-09-13T10:22:48.136-04:00<h4 id="blogitemtitle" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-weight: normal;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Sometimes we expect more from others because we would be willing to do that much for them."</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">That is all. </span></span></h4>
Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-84946559724819218912012-09-05T22:17:00.002-04:002012-09-05T22:17:30.066-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-72336702220019096502012-09-04T19:21:00.001-04:002012-09-04T19:21:24.502-04:00Some {fabulous} things <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKohsMlCF9cAYj-d9v6dXA3h7PdkbFqKHh2I3aFmTUFULQnHCz0qsdnYjV9518EZsvFrhpqc0m_pMKsmHyzh_rkfLDDZ9imMPcxhDOdhXM8smi9d_r6tyYRBtBYyfH7dnR3MVKf005L0/s1600/yellow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKohsMlCF9cAYj-d9v6dXA3h7PdkbFqKHh2I3aFmTUFULQnHCz0qsdnYjV9518EZsvFrhpqc0m_pMKsmHyzh_rkfLDDZ9imMPcxhDOdhXM8smi9d_r6tyYRBtBYyfH7dnR3MVKf005L0/s400/yellow.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mustard Anything</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivVPH3Dws22T5Fh9aRuh4UJu8FiV4Ma0WrI7Ul-xc8FWGLw3nrvB-hg7yt8NBgvhVWs5ymezWp4TEwtDX4dFIuEgaH-5tHwAZsdRaq6LuQyXT3Y6oC6XTUsoG-13l7KSqx4mqk0N3-fZA/s1600/hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivVPH3Dws22T5Fh9aRuh4UJu8FiV4Ma0WrI7Ul-xc8FWGLw3nrvB-hg7yt8NBgvhVWs5ymezWp4TEwtDX4dFIuEgaH-5tHwAZsdRaq6LuQyXT3Y6oC6XTUsoG-13l7KSqx4mqk0N3-fZA/s400/hair.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Messy Updos</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-x6ziilFDJ1C9ghJ0tCNusej8f_ea_L3UK-wt7_3Cuqj2cFPKK_QmSlfHZp6tuK_rccu4Yu6n6bmnY7Ek1o9lBKL5WD-iBzv40RW1vIjTLbakC4D1QUfHxMZrtueruJq1Jt0SYpRumno/s1600/rug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-x6ziilFDJ1C9ghJ0tCNusej8f_ea_L3UK-wt7_3Cuqj2cFPKK_QmSlfHZp6tuK_rccu4Yu6n6bmnY7Ek1o9lBKL5WD-iBzv40RW1vIjTLbakC4D1QUfHxMZrtueruJq1Jt0SYpRumno/s400/rug.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black and White Room Accents</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii814-L13H26Xr3xD4VC8nMkNETylbHRUgZnkofZu3cRvpp-BL-FQh_0zoROONBMFAp9FPAWPAw_DaP-Oq5WcLM5u8JdYdN43gyP88TuDkV6J3zIkC3mw7XSwPhgaot3EtX8SYxufXtOc/s1600/jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii814-L13H26Xr3xD4VC8nMkNETylbHRUgZnkofZu3cRvpp-BL-FQh_0zoROONBMFAp9FPAWPAw_DaP-Oq5WcLM5u8JdYdN43gyP88TuDkV6J3zIkC3mw7XSwPhgaot3EtX8SYxufXtOc/s400/jeans.jpg" width="210" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boyfriend Jeans</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfgNnjJAmI_b8tlB_dZR7X8jSqnpQMKJBNE3ZYlJelyMeLqMOPVFUz6HNfQfyVCWScSqG16tQWHYEwF8Nmnr_e-11RkMzuiVuF06ZYFTLJtHo3-6Tg4Cd_130FLoam_6iJF8h3f9eCDw/s1600/books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfgNnjJAmI_b8tlB_dZR7X8jSqnpQMKJBNE3ZYlJelyMeLqMOPVFUz6HNfQfyVCWScSqG16tQWHYEwF8Nmnr_e-11RkMzuiVuF06ZYFTLJtHo3-6Tg4Cd_130FLoam_6iJF8h3f9eCDw/s400/books.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good Books</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpwxOHDRWjEAPwr4aB075vGWI9jhSf38_NOGtfJfcvLKqJupLakfE5yR_DSXC2P7MYK7EIhUjInYuROk5s7F3BLQP_oVlreyxuZFK11hHtK7W2P6XEiltQIvzniqjvZQwAc4TYKyroPNY/s1600/bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpwxOHDRWjEAPwr4aB075vGWI9jhSf38_NOGtfJfcvLKqJupLakfE5yR_DSXC2P7MYK7EIhUjInYuROk5s7F3BLQP_oVlreyxuZFK11hHtK7W2P6XEiltQIvzniqjvZQwAc4TYKyroPNY/s400/bags.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Bags</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkpLIvftDHcyoOI2cAhRXWj7aoEyu0nI5gGuVD38ZMSn_Y3yST3iNgYtFvY5CsvIUzHuRp-x5wPm06ONuU-5zbnblgLij9oh7VSkwIaVmt_I_O4LmqJ9FiNWlq2cN8AJELq5F-YSXJaE/s1600/stationary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkpLIvftDHcyoOI2cAhRXWj7aoEyu0nI5gGuVD38ZMSn_Y3yST3iNgYtFvY5CsvIUzHuRp-x5wPm06ONuU-5zbnblgLij9oh7VSkwIaVmt_I_O4LmqJ9FiNWlq2cN8AJELq5F-YSXJaE/s400/stationary.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabulous Stationary</td></tr>
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<br />Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-4168411078329670322012-07-26T11:09:00.002-04:002012-07-26T11:10:06.681-04:00Polyvore Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFHoTc1DTsWsCRdSyuAizMOxUl-GxWi_7apgRauNdqxoTjBOf1yEV6akuF2-pVcB_8l-cHZ4ve4PH5PC3DilrwUcHy7CYH_JDGvFRUbT7svSoFwcdBSfOaiCgGtKCaZ-44_txJzs7K7o/s1600/polyvore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFHoTc1DTsWsCRdSyuAizMOxUl-GxWi_7apgRauNdqxoTjBOf1yEV6akuF2-pVcB_8l-cHZ4ve4PH5PC3DilrwUcHy7CYH_JDGvFRUbT7svSoFwcdBSfOaiCgGtKCaZ-44_txJzs7K7o/s400/polyvore.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-87332338602276881222012-06-27T11:26:00.003-04:002012-06-27T11:26:48.603-04:00Summer Project Anyone?<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
I have had a few friends in the past couple of weeks ask me for help with distressing furniture. I have become quite the pro at this and if you have ever visited my home, you already know that the more worn something looks to me, the better. </div>
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<b>Step 1:</b> Pick out old piece of furniture from flea market, thrift store, junk store, etc. The junkier the better. Don't underestimate the potential behind even the most hideous pieces of furniture you may find :)</div>
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<b>Step 2:</b> Make a trip to Lowes. </div>
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You will need to get: spray can of paint primer, gloss paint, a cheap tarp, fine-grain sandpaper, and a paint brush. Depending on how big/small whatever you're painting is, I recommend getting sample size paint to save money. It looks small, but I covered my coffee table with 2 coats and still had some leftover - and you can ask for it in any color. If you think you might need more, the pint covers 100 sq ft. </div>
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<b>Step 3:</b> Set up tarp in a dry, flat area outside when you know it's not supposed to rain that day. Place furniture in the middle of the tarp and make sure none of the sides are able to blow over and stick to the wet paint once you begin.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq318aeR9zX3YDKD0KHHHsS-nFTzBGghwlKklOyhslMU2KNSVfDVMfRu57neTHiwmL51xA4eu7A57Hf_dCeXJ6LKrv1cwwP7xmQwoA1Tx92DY-QiUMARyoLPtR_N1SZKyNrAPyiRw_Vb4/s1600/SDC13894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq318aeR9zX3YDKD0KHHHsS-nFTzBGghwlKklOyhslMU2KNSVfDVMfRu57neTHiwmL51xA4eu7A57Hf_dCeXJ6LKrv1cwwP7xmQwoA1Tx92DY-QiUMARyoLPtR_N1SZKyNrAPyiRw_Vb4/s320/SDC13894.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 4:</b> Scuff up table (or whatever you are painting) with sandpaper. You do not need to completely sand every inch of it. Just scuff it up evenly and smooth out any previous paint chips or uneven surfaces. This way, the primer will adhere better - no matter what kind of paint was used before.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkUBYks-WDOzzeNWn8wKyy1isadL_qhojG9u4nWa3WYNkrOgOFwsZUxnqe5awQE_-1ft4B7rcvEMBsOpyfhuxz6eNwr1zmSVA1TCchff6if02rKgOF1wwSJ8EJXGkPhU2cRlE5OfHEFU/s1600/SDC13896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkUBYks-WDOzzeNWn8wKyy1isadL_qhojG9u4nWa3WYNkrOgOFwsZUxnqe5awQE_-1ft4B7rcvEMBsOpyfhuxz6eNwr1zmSVA1TCchff6if02rKgOF1wwSJ8EJXGkPhU2cRlE5OfHEFU/s320/SDC13896.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b> Step 5:</b> Spray primer evenly over all surfaces that will be painted. As you can see, it does not need to be a solid coat like the paint. Let primer dry depending on the time it says on the can. If it's a hot day, it may take less time. (I did these tables last summer and they dried super fast in the heat). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiv8vCLqZJ53I2IpzEPOwxdVU9Qdyl8KEjBqO6RNwKbsKsX4YLl3OhYDIa8dUSBlonFQ9aFjEfypci9-HHcsaZO9y6P4eKDJIrOSsN7ouohKlBHkEhV7ROGkoUbUoS5WSZlpglRYT8eg/s1600/SDC13898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiv8vCLqZJ53I2IpzEPOwxdVU9Qdyl8KEjBqO6RNwKbsKsX4YLl3OhYDIa8dUSBlonFQ9aFjEfypci9-HHcsaZO9y6P4eKDJIrOSsN7ouohKlBHkEhV7ROGkoUbUoS5WSZlpglRYT8eg/s320/SDC13898.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFBHQRn8dvNGxC3XCw2HCUV3R7y59tohGBa8I7XljWaWYwDn0L5fkDyCyylzyh9VK_Lvl1rKIv69Juq55DxS_5so1ZAp_e3D-fk5UeTiY_cx4zy3PUdnkDONQNt-l1Ko8_DDfeZ6EnB8/s1600/SDC13895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFBHQRn8dvNGxC3XCw2HCUV3R7y59tohGBa8I7XljWaWYwDn0L5fkDyCyylzyh9VK_Lvl1rKIv69Juq55DxS_5so1ZAp_e3D-fk5UeTiY_cx4zy3PUdnkDONQNt-l1Ko8_DDfeZ6EnB8/s320/SDC13895.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 6:</b> Paint 2 coats and let dry for a few hours. It's important to let the paint completely dry in order to properly distress. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Step 7:</b> (not pictured) Time to distress! After paint is dry, time to get out the sandpaper. (Again, be sure you are using fine-grain.) I always start out where any ridges or texture is - so usually the legs and edges where all the curves are. Sand lightly and apply more pressure until you see the natural wood showing through. For the flat surfaces, add a couple of distressed spots as well, but focus more on other areas, as you want to keep the idea of it looking more natural, thinking of where items actually become distressed over time. </span></div>
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Next, take a dry paint brush or paper towel and brush off the dust from sanding. Enjoy your new fabulous piece of furniture!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiv8vCLqZJ53I2IpzEPOwxdVU9Qdyl8KEjBqO6RNwKbsKsX4YLl3OhYDIa8dUSBlonFQ9aFjEfypci9-HHcsaZO9y6P4eKDJIrOSsN7ouohKlBHkEhV7ROGkoUbUoS5WSZlpglRYT8eg/s1600/SDC13898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-22974144708029569062012-06-27T10:33:00.000-04:002012-06-27T10:33:34.856-04:00<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Life has been so busy for me lately. I know I always say that, but I truly am trying to slow down. Between working non-stop, traveling here and there on the weekends, birthdays, graduations, hellos, and goodbyes, time is just FLYING. I cannot believe it is the end of June already. It's so true that time goes by even faster when you're working. There are no spring/fall breaks to split up the time - and definitely no chillaxing by the pool on weekdays during the summer. Taylor always bugs me about blogging. I will randomly get a text saying "Sure would like to read a blog" and I never make the time to do it. SO, here is my measly effort to say HI and make excuses as to why I have been so terrible at keeping up with this thing. There really are lots of things I would like to share, but I guess one step at a time is going to have to be my promise to gradually be more consistent. For now, happy hump day!</span>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-80211352100270290972012-06-27T10:17:00.001-04:002012-06-27T10:17:51.051-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-63617620236143966822012-05-06T19:11:00.001-04:002012-05-06T19:11:32.142-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I don't think I have ever been this excited to start a week. Maybe that's because this weekend I get to see my favorite guy in the world after a LONG 2 1/2 months. Words cannot express how much I have missed you, Taylor! Hurry home to me as soon as you're done taking over the world ;)</span>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-6412244310893329302012-04-27T16:07:00.002-04:002012-04-27T16:07:56.503-04:00Cross my HeartSo I have had this love for side crosses for a while now, and suddenly I have been spotting them everywhere. I have seen silver, gold, turquoise, even pearl crosses in necklaces, bracelets, and rings. SO chic and simple!! So far the best selection I have found with many price points and variations is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">etsy</a>. I can't decide which one I want - I was thinking maybe a big one and small one to wear together around my neck. Here are some of my favs:<br />
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<br />Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-87547445368363611292012-04-25T14:16:00.002-04:002012-04-25T14:16:59.620-04:00April 4, 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-36662848960248327752012-04-17T10:31:00.000-04:002012-04-17T10:31:07.537-04:00Minty Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjK7cH1G9SmDGG4A-MIOhf7vwxt4MrHDzSVcsELS79tby_f256AiTiHfFRQUgXos36-u6uiOuEQOanrWxAaIrsw2dod_6SzpE7dOYiHDfJBrk1pgIGPS3ZmqT01ie8vK-Fe_YfXXes1M/s1600/mint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjK7cH1G9SmDGG4A-MIOhf7vwxt4MrHDzSVcsELS79tby_f256AiTiHfFRQUgXos36-u6uiOuEQOanrWxAaIrsw2dod_6SzpE7dOYiHDfJBrk1pgIGPS3ZmqT01ie8vK-Fe_YfXXes1M/s400/mint.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJmQ98iFFcCAoqDITcuR9qbYz45ZnvcNxPeXGsszfho-NDEiXZ0O9aEHzIV-25kiGciFSei5u7dA5JOzjbodo5YoDnHxuIlJegt-iF7aCpqBxNaowLWI4pVbeA_o1AlRqNBHCRe3LZT0/s1600/mint8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJmQ98iFFcCAoqDITcuR9qbYz45ZnvcNxPeXGsszfho-NDEiXZ0O9aEHzIV-25kiGciFSei5u7dA5JOzjbodo5YoDnHxuIlJegt-iF7aCpqBxNaowLWI4pVbeA_o1AlRqNBHCRe3LZT0/s640/mint8.jpg" width="449" /></a></div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-35853328248153567172012-04-12T16:45:00.001-04:002012-04-12T16:54:18.630-04:00Lunch Favorite<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqz9w_Jdo7Fc9vDV6ni-6YBgyMGZeQI1SEs0kL6MK_dK4j_Pg7kV0mgBYo1X-WmQhkiJzME90gWgJQkzy3trBvK2mvXgasCAFC5jeAakHN8zjaVX5dOqAEzpXZ3pfYr-w2K0KQ8QJCgAs/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqz9w_Jdo7Fc9vDV6ni-6YBgyMGZeQI1SEs0kL6MK_dK4j_Pg7kV0mgBYo1X-WmQhkiJzME90gWgJQkzy3trBvK2mvXgasCAFC5jeAakHN8zjaVX5dOqAEzpXZ3pfYr-w2K0KQ8QJCgAs/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Just wanted to share my famous chicken salad recipe for anyone interested in a delicious, filling, HEALTHY meal. (Excuse my super low-quality i-phone photo, but I thought a mere visual might help the cause.) You can serve this on top of greens, in a wrap, or just by itself. If you want to be real fancy, or just have an avocado obsession like myself, you can add a few slices of ripe avocado on top and it's OH SO GOOD.<br />
<br />
2-4 Servings<br />
*I usually never measure unless i'm baking so these are rough measurements. Use your judgement depending on the size of the veggies and how much of each ingredient you prefer. If you don't have all the seasonings, salt & pepper usually does the trick!<br />
<br />
<br />
You will need:<br />
<br />
-2 small to medium boneless skinless chicken breasts <br />
-1/2 red bell pepper<br />
-1/3 yellow onion<br />
-2 table spoons mayonnaise<br />
-salt, pepper, garlic powder, parsley<br />
<br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
<br />
-Rinse chicken and trim of all fat<br />
-Bring water to a boil and add in chicken breasts<br />
-Boil about 10 minutes until chicken is cooked all the way through <br />
-Chop onion and red bell pepper and combine in a separate bowl with the mayonnaise<br />
-Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley on top of combined ingredients<br />
-Once cooked thoroughly, remove chicken from water and pat dry with a paper towel <br />
-Cut chicken into small chunks and let cool for about 5 minutes after it's all chopped - Be careful because it will be hot as you cut it<br />
-Add chicken into the mixture of peppers, onions, mayo, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley. Stir everything together. <br />
-Refrigerate and enjoy!Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-38846313581778912852012-04-05T14:26:00.000-04:002012-04-05T14:26:19.646-04:00Happy Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxw4w8aOa2q-zov_ptUgJSxpkyn-tpQ1I-7F1AgTWQ64HGEPcqooHiE5EkQfhN__asrhH_P9Cabl_Uziz82jZlVdaZfo6QfY2yb5_3ev0ZgFJvfPvpejpaj351RSjQrrIUiArMp97Dnw4/s1600/182466222372808361_jqJFLoqI_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxw4w8aOa2q-zov_ptUgJSxpkyn-tpQ1I-7F1AgTWQ64HGEPcqooHiE5EkQfhN__asrhH_P9Cabl_Uziz82jZlVdaZfo6QfY2yb5_3ev0ZgFJvfPvpejpaj351RSjQrrIUiArMp97Dnw4/s640/182466222372808361_jqJFLoqI_f.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-4209293134663604342012-03-26T16:04:00.000-04:002012-03-26T16:04:16.642-04:00Happy Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6olxTzmHK79d6gGnSWE-HtLupj0rwSnk5Buy101MOf4GBLZwprKP0jd1epYZsS0QrhWWId23D35msznzPt41BRJgBL6HDFZbS-vgUpDKYWnCs7omZsiZyNvTmBxodEpEXruxIC921iD8/s1600/spring1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6olxTzmHK79d6gGnSWE-HtLupj0rwSnk5Buy101MOf4GBLZwprKP0jd1epYZsS0QrhWWId23D35msznzPt41BRJgBL6HDFZbS-vgUpDKYWnCs7omZsiZyNvTmBxodEpEXruxIC921iD8/s640/spring1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I have been terrible about blogging lately. I get behind, and then I don't know where to start again, so I put it off and then here I am... one measly picture and nothing interesting to say. I vow to blog more often than I have been - especially since Taylor keeps bugging me about how I never blog anymore. So here's to Spring, new blog posts ahead, and basketball season(unfortunately) not taking over all my free time. xoxo</div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-1616189633516723032012-01-30T14:25:00.001-05:002012-01-30T14:25:17.784-05:00COLOR is what's trending<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjEpRfE1gJjGbCxUnLsVMx0faY25yEb3F-M3bvQlicjMiVH11gc-PLdMCypZjrRvtmqxFT_hFFDiOhnohGaZ8Xj2GAKVmQv-ViUzFqtaTv3gpRyJBqsw7Etf6ofuyY5og8RpTW6lwQgw/s1600/color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjEpRfE1gJjGbCxUnLsVMx0faY25yEb3F-M3bvQlicjMiVH11gc-PLdMCypZjrRvtmqxFT_hFFDiOhnohGaZ8Xj2GAKVmQv-ViUzFqtaTv3gpRyJBqsw7Etf6ofuyY5og8RpTW6lwQgw/s400/color.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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</div><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Can anyone tell I have Spring fever? </span>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-19630432725106682062012-01-29T19:17:00.001-05:002012-01-29T19:19:57.143-05:00Worth the calories...<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This morning my parents came to visit for brunch, which was the perfect way to spend my Sunday. I made homemade hash browns, bacon and spinach quiche, and of course I had to stop and get fresh Bruegger's bagels from around the corner. It was my first attempt ever at making a quiche, and with my dad being the tough food critic he is, I was definitely up for a challenge. Hate to brag, but it was darn good. I wanted to share the recipe because it's so easy and delish, and you don't have to be Wolfgang Puck for this to turn out amazing.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ_9HdIx8dfoJeLnSNPyjqrXj15ZWUDelrU31O4OBgmYsuzTlECiaeCTv6LDsq3C43U3piqdFpllEKSPFwERZIFK9zI5HAIrSAedteO02eklH1LkROIQBENvL-27nVnQ00VOYHdmIaWu8/s1600/quiche.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ_9HdIx8dfoJeLnSNPyjqrXj15ZWUDelrU31O4OBgmYsuzTlECiaeCTv6LDsq3C43U3piqdFpllEKSPFwERZIFK9zI5HAIrSAedteO02eklH1LkROIQBENvL-27nVnQ00VOYHdmIaWu8/s400/quiche.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">You will need:</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-8 oz bacon</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1 unbaked 9 inch deep dish pie crust (frozen section)</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-3 cups shredded cheddar cheese</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-3 tbspns all-purpose flour</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-5 eggs lightly beaten</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1 1/2 cups half & half</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1/2 cup diced onion</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1 1/2 cups frozen spinach, thawed and drained of all water </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Directions:<span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">-Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside.</span><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">-Let frozen crust thaw out for about 10-15 minutes. Poke holes in bottom and sides of crust and bake by itself for 5 minutes. Sprinkle bacon inside of crust. In a small bowl, combine Cheddar cheese and flour. In a separate bowl, beat together eggs, cream, onion and spinach. Combine both mixtures; stir well. Pour mixture into pie crust.</span><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Garnish top with any leftover bacon crumbles.</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">-Bake in preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, until set. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!</span></div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-24971984092320286492012-01-12T23:05:00.000-05:002012-01-12T23:05:46.493-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7mva06HjQV9EqBUP9akDwrDTyHTNEeEJ1Zc6TuSyo3Be1tBqMOyFuIOcD-MJFciYo7VSBgkf_8h0mW7BP0oAfnDZgCJfrveBFG7BL5NLp_2sJQyCUBwP82_dHDqSETJgLFauv0pHctQ/s1600/sleep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7mva06HjQV9EqBUP9akDwrDTyHTNEeEJ1Zc6TuSyo3Be1tBqMOyFuIOcD-MJFciYo7VSBgkf_8h0mW7BP0oAfnDZgCJfrveBFG7BL5NLp_2sJQyCUBwP82_dHDqSETJgLFauv0pHctQ/s400/sleep.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Sitting in bed in my freshly cleaned sheets, feeling thankful. Thankful for a warm bed to snuggle up in and soft pillow to rest my head on tonight. Thankful to be safe and rested and clean and warm. I'm thankful for many things, but right now it's merely the simplicity of falling asleep tonight in clean sheets right where I belong. It's true, we should all take a moment to smell the roses, or the fabric softener - either one.Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-48933671504572440172012-01-12T15:23:00.000-05:002012-01-12T15:23:49.096-05:00To my little brother<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/JE2QnjT4k8Q?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
Just heard this song and it made me think of one thing: when my little brother was a toddler and this was his favorite song and only knew the chorus. My friends are probably thinking that description sounds a lot like me now. His version went like this:<br />
<br />
It's sumfin unpwedictable<br />
In the end is right<br />
I hope you have da tiiIIIiiime of yer lifeeee.<br />
<br />
x 5,000 <br />
<br />
Joseph, you will be 18 in less than a month and not only do you know all the words to this song, but you can play it on the guitar perfectly. Even though I get on your nerves probably more than you get on mine, we will always be pals. However, I will always need to borrow some sweat pants when I'm home, and will always ask you to be my slave and get me something to drink whenever I'm thirsty. At 23, I am still not above being completely helpless the second I plop down on the couch. The dirty looks may stop eventually, but I wouldn't count on it. And I will probably always punch your arm with my bony knuckles every time I walk by you. Get used to it. <br />
<br />
<br />
BUT<br />
<br />
I am proud of you and hope your are proud of yourself. Most importantly I don't ever want you to think you aren't good enough for whatever life has to offer. It's all yours if you want it badly enough. Please know there aren't shortcuts to great things, and if going far in life were easy, everyone would be doing it. Be that leader that mom always instilled in us, and never get mad at the obstacles that get in the way. Learn to embrace them and know that those are the moments that define us. You will be challenged and hurt at times, but it's important to get back up and dust yourself off. Always offer a hand, even to your worst enemy, and expect nothing in return. It's not about what you get, it's about what you give. And lastly, in all things you do, no matter who you're with or where you are, I hope you have the time of your life.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
your big sisterJolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-9452178354377126252012-01-11T22:07:00.001-05:002012-01-11T22:08:10.717-05:00Rainy Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhouNX6ypAvPRx2msMOcAiwgF8Fk0K3BTHHN40vbWl1HBXbMdKFEHBmyYmeasgseRb4kx6lYoEQNtxbWbYBT18KeTSEG6mNARGfIhapTTXdrHtLP0XDNAu3ahOixvC_R3t44tXyzovpoRM/s1600/rain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhouNX6ypAvPRx2msMOcAiwgF8Fk0K3BTHHN40vbWl1HBXbMdKFEHBmyYmeasgseRb4kx6lYoEQNtxbWbYBT18KeTSEG6mNARGfIhapTTXdrHtLP0XDNAu3ahOixvC_R3t44tXyzovpoRM/s400/rain.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Today was such a rainy, dreary day. At work, all we talked about was how we all longed for our sweat pants and the remote in the comfort of our own living rooms, sheltered from the falling sky. I walked in from lunch, practically soaked, despite my best effort to shield myself with my umbrella on my walk from the parking lot. Of course I managed to lose my balance in the midst of dodging puddles on the uneven sidewalk, and planted my feet right in a nice cold puddle the size of Texas. Great. Soggy flats and frizzy hair was the best way to describe the rest of my day. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Despite trudging into my office, sopping wet, wanting nothing more than to be moseyed up at home with a hot cup of chai tea, I appreciate days like today. Sometimes, that slowness of those rainy days is what keeps us grounded. We complain about how ugly it is out and how wet and cold it is, but at the end of the day when we are finally rewarded with sweat pants and a good dinner and a hot shower, we appreciate these little things a tad bit more than usual. I had the most relaxing evening making dinner, doing an ab workout, and finding my little nook at the end of the couch with my laptop and an over-sized sweatshirt. A lot of times, my life is so busy I either don't have time to appreciate these little rewards of my day, or I just flat out overlook them.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So tonight when I snuggle up in bed, I'll be sure to thank God twice for giving me the opportunity today to be patient and count my smaller blessings that I don't always count when the sun is shining and the warm breeze is blowing. It's easy to smile and skip on a bright sunny day, but there's never a rainbow without the rain.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Goodnight,</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Jolene </div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-2901101451431985692012-01-11T09:43:00.000-05:002012-01-11T09:43:17.855-05:00It's all about the Fringe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZJBRLMVitbBptXc69ZAEnSeZ6PqnFw3BnnwMPBqsfytPcglQ90Uwen9mXhI510j7FKgb2pxaWRqwsyoU0ClzdC19eyMR4j4SySV1mmk8uDm8nW_AphqUvIkF72X54sA5buogdfnBNJBY/s1600/fringe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZJBRLMVitbBptXc69ZAEnSeZ6PqnFw3BnnwMPBqsfytPcglQ90Uwen9mXhI510j7FKgb2pxaWRqwsyoU0ClzdC19eyMR4j4SySV1mmk8uDm8nW_AphqUvIkF72X54sA5buogdfnBNJBY/s640/fringe.jpg" width="384" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaWE_42XcAQKIjHUnmvMQT3ScyGwQlejTyYaBUqay4PvyrmQzbz-92Q1A7qsjTzaoJ_84D-2Iv6dI2IFRZPC43dobjO8myzD2ktamNH5rgr6SmMZsZzV3zloJYKNNEfNITyDqCPG_q3sA/s1600/fringe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaWE_42XcAQKIjHUnmvMQT3ScyGwQlejTyYaBUqay4PvyrmQzbz-92Q1A7qsjTzaoJ_84D-2Iv6dI2IFRZPC43dobjO8myzD2ktamNH5rgr6SmMZsZzV3zloJYKNNEfNITyDqCPG_q3sA/s640/fringe2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGnBRvHPX8tsyL_4_4uV18OPqD9XijQ_4fmcp4SGrNL4acnb3i9r8CmFoCWkdG7zf8ZTHdLpgZ1CP9vsxgyTDTOg6a8y0f1Y8z58_0MxcxxGtasP-fKLiSqViK542VHII3oiBT_D1xu4M/s1600/fringe4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGnBRvHPX8tsyL_4_4uV18OPqD9XijQ_4fmcp4SGrNL4acnb3i9r8CmFoCWkdG7zf8ZTHdLpgZ1CP9vsxgyTDTOg6a8y0f1Y8z58_0MxcxxGtasP-fKLiSqViK542VHII3oiBT_D1xu4M/s400/fringe4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijlWMyhguNim5F7-MII2tiJDYiWqCXKcmWKgliTibhHauQBumOcJkmLdLcBMKqqXfPAa_3IsQug9PULtl57fJfYa5S_fbTkIQi3xgIH43owpoXeMWdaGSE6DJiEqMBCiOelMXq4XsHswc/s1600/fringe5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijlWMyhguNim5F7-MII2tiJDYiWqCXKcmWKgliTibhHauQBumOcJkmLdLcBMKqqXfPAa_3IsQug9PULtl57fJfYa5S_fbTkIQi3xgIH43owpoXeMWdaGSE6DJiEqMBCiOelMXq4XsHswc/s640/fringe5.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-29075147072189039972012-01-10T22:40:00.003-05:002012-01-11T08:58:35.936-05:00Dear Taylor<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">You have been back at school for only 2 days and I already miss you like crazy. I know this sounds sappy to most people, but if they'd ever been in a long-distance relationship that is only comprised of actual dates once every six weeks and being hugged and kissed way less often than desired, they too would miss even the toilet seat always being up every time they went to the bathroom. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The second I pulled away from the airport, I looked in my rear-view mirror and saw you walking away with your whole life folded neatly in a duffel bag and a head on your shoulders that could save the world. I told myself, "One more down, now on to the next semester!" The end to your Christmas break is so bittersweet to me. This is when we get to spend the most time together and celebrate the holidays with our friends and families. I hate our "goodbyes" (or as you like to call them "see you later's"), but at the same time I know that little glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel gets a little brighter each time. We are almost half-way there! Can you believe it? I remember the night before you moved away, we were at dinner and you toasted with your glass in the air, "To the next four years." I was so sad you were leaving and my little eyes went blurry and I forced a smile. I will never forget that. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">As you continue on your journey of challenges and all the new invigorating things you will learn and become, I want to tell you how proud of you I am. Your endeavors prove more than just your drive and intelligence, but also your character. You have a deep passion for helping others, and to say you will make a difference in others' lives is an understatement. I love this about you. As much as I hate saying goodbye to you and hate sleeping in without your warm body curled up next to me, I wouldn't trade it for the world. You truly are one of a kind, and you never cease to prove that to not only myself, but to everyone who comes your way. Please always be true to yourself and remain humble through all your accomplishments as your path to success and happiness widens. You are on your way to great things, and whatever you want in life is there for the taking. Hold on to all your passions with two hands, my love. The best is yet to come. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">xoxo</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Jolene </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-4813052967527891642012-01-09T10:44:00.000-05:002012-01-09T10:44:20.348-05:00January 9, 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MYr_Z7cPpv2uDPTaZJh4UGu9P1kRF-1Imt-zz9b7dc0zHQFF8FXuyj0edi4-WY2g7WJBOwjygd8phi3LN6vvVHbjypu49rvx16OPBC9EW2islw7s4MGmjcVzwJE0UmvnMpAVzL-2Vec/s1600/crochet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MYr_Z7cPpv2uDPTaZJh4UGu9P1kRF-1Imt-zz9b7dc0zHQFF8FXuyj0edi4-WY2g7WJBOwjygd8phi3LN6vvVHbjypu49rvx16OPBC9EW2islw7s4MGmjcVzwJE0UmvnMpAVzL-2Vec/s640/crochet.jpg" width="473" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhair0PZLAuhA1v8jtKq8uF125tiz21JuOgZss-ro5Vj1dJ4-3Yxu0I6N_FfDDzX3RQsHyBHwaEaidSkXyLzfKp3RjJ3Esz5JNW5VZ8X5sI8MrFbkxPbYpJ9V5ZtQDWsW0kVlvinduGXks/s1600/eyelet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhair0PZLAuhA1v8jtKq8uF125tiz21JuOgZss-ro5Vj1dJ4-3Yxu0I6N_FfDDzX3RQsHyBHwaEaidSkXyLzfKp3RjJ3Esz5JNW5VZ8X5sI8MrFbkxPbYpJ9V5ZtQDWsW0kVlvinduGXks/s640/eyelet2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-90512948412108685242012-01-09T10:09:00.002-05:002012-01-09T10:20:18.082-05:00Need a healthy kick?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolp97OfO7CFVngov4N4Kd1xdjCYKnBnfaj5Z5kVxeyN7n2PB6vpQelh6AFc8c_LUyA3k5b_CyRK5NpefjZ0tn7X13mOeCOizBX2htd5E1ztdckC6Gu2kCiIkaMlnXkp_vymloNwcdhwo/s1600/mango.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolp97OfO7CFVngov4N4Kd1xdjCYKnBnfaj5Z5kVxeyN7n2PB6vpQelh6AFc8c_LUyA3k5b_CyRK5NpefjZ0tn7X13mOeCOizBX2htd5E1ztdckC6Gu2kCiIkaMlnXkp_vymloNwcdhwo/s400/mango.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">A while ago, a friend of mine told me about this recipe -- and it has definitely become one of my favorites! It's super easy and super healthy! I have made a few tweaks, so hope you enjoy!</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Mango Salsa</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1 ripe mango</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1/2 avacado</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-2 roma tomatoes</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1/4 lime</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1 small red bell pepper</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1 small red onion</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1/4 cup fresh cilantro</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1 cup drained corn </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1/2 tsp minced garlic</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1/2 tsp salt </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b> Tilapia</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-2-4 Tilapia filets</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-1 tbs minced garlic</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-olive oil</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-parsley</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-salt/pepper</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">First, start out with the salsa -- the longer it sits, the better the flavor! </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Dice mango, avocado, tomatoes, red pepper, and onion and combine in medium sized bowl</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Add corn, salt, garlic</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Squeeze lime and zest over ingredients. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Chop cilantro finely - add to bowl</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Stir all the ingredients together and place in fridge </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Tilapia (Oven is the easiest way to cook this - but you can grill or cook on the stove)</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Preheat oven to 350</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Drizzle olive oil in a med-lrg glass oven-safe dish</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Place filets in dish, not overlapping</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Drizzle filets with olive oil </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Sprinkle with salt, pepper, parsley, and garlic powder </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Cook in oven for about 15 minutes until fish is no longer transparent and is mostly white</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I also like to serve this with white rice for a bigger meal, but that's completely up to the cook!</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Once tilapia is fully cooked, spread rice on plate, add fish on top, and finally top it with the salsa and some fresh cilantro as a garnish.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This salsa is great to eat with chips and can be stored in a jar in the fridge like all other salsas. You can also substitute the Tilapia with grilled Mahi, Cod, sauteed shrimp, etc. It's a very quick meal after all the ingredients are diced up. Best of all, you will have a beautifully colorful concoction of all fresh ingredients that will fill you up and provide all the best nutrients! (I recommend throwing all the salsa ingredients into a food processor to save time, but I oddly enough enjoy taking the time to dice everything up by hand.) You can feed 3-4 people with the above ingredients and it can be made for under $20! Hope you enjoy!</div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-595633127574766606.post-77535265523470971762012-01-09T09:35:00.002-05:002012-01-09T16:47:56.268-05:00Happy 2012!<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I have always been a major proponent of hot yoga, but I must say, it has been a while since I sat in a 105 degree studio for an hour and a half and sweated and bended and stretched and well... you get the idea. I have really missed doing hot yoga, and since having moved to Raleigh this past summer, I have been taking one step at a time to adapting to my new city. I have been on the hunt to find all new doctors, a dentist, an oral surgeon, a dry cleaner, a hair stylist, a tailor, and the list goes on. I have been very successful in my hunt -- however, last on my list was to find a good yoga studio. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I could not be happier! I must say, I had one of the best hot yoga experiences at Open Door Yoga Studio downtown. People always groan when I mention hot yoga; they think of how miserable it must be to do yoga in 105 degrees for an hour an half. But really, it's just the opposite. It's the most refreshing, yet challenging physical activity you can do to your body. You sweat the entire time, and it feels amazing. With a big bottle of ice water and the right mindset, you will find that you not only feel lighter when you leave, your muscles will be relaxed and toned and you will get the best sleep you've ever had. On average, you burn between 600-1200 calories in the 90 minute class, which is more than most people burn during an average gym workout or run. Some of the primary benefits include leaner, toned muscles, increased use of lungs, better blood circulation, rejuvenated organs and arteries, weight loss, and stress relief to name a few. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Anyone in the Raleigh area, I highly recommend this studio. They have a flexible schedule, great staff, and the best part - you pay on a donation basis! If you have a little more, you pay a little more, but if you don't have as much, you can still get the benefits of hot yoga for a little less. It's a great concept, and a great way of life. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTak5fF_ZhsDxA2PE-0CaZkyNdRdyxkexw5IluKX_PZh-IQ8OQKwBEKdOtbZuNRwq-WQsBVXuFlDc_jl6B-SNCNFce8q-NToHy-ZJyH-bq-rqxv_Fm4fhf3lUm3ld67QcSqsnkOJPrL8o/s1600/yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTak5fF_ZhsDxA2PE-0CaZkyNdRdyxkexw5IluKX_PZh-IQ8OQKwBEKdOtbZuNRwq-WQsBVXuFlDc_jl6B-SNCNFce8q-NToHy-ZJyH-bq-rqxv_Fm4fhf3lUm3ld67QcSqsnkOJPrL8o/s400/yoga.jpg" width="395" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">http://www.opendooryogastudio.com/</div>Jolene Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14058824885913996568noreply@blogger.com0