tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37629352433312364172024-03-13T10:55:19.280-04:00Life Through These Rose-colored Glasses...Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.comBlogger172125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-68156688641726384272013-01-01T13:40:00.001-05:002013-01-01T13:40:29.985-05:00A New Year...I really love this time of year. I love what "the new year" stands for. I love the resolve and the renewed optimism that people have to make themselves better than they have been before. This year for me will be about daily details. Working off The List is still in full swing but by looking at it I notice much of what I check off are the things that require short-term commitment or are "once in a lifetime experiences". The things that have been left uncrossed on the list the longest are those things that take a daily effort, persistence, and patience. Of course. For those that know me well, this makes perfect sense. There are things pegged for this year that are short-term goals like:
Buy the "Sutton Homestead"
Enjoy tea time in England
Learn the art of canning
Backpacking in Yellowstone
But I think these things will come fairly naturally. There are things that I work on year after year with little progress and I think if I focus on them first, the rest will follow.
Walk/Run/Swim/Bike 5 days a week
Eat 90% plant based diet
Read the Bible
I look forward to 2013 mostly because the Mr. and I will finally be in the same state together and we are working to build some permanency in our lives. It's going to be fabulous!
Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-20451037276919505632012-11-28T23:58:00.000-05:002012-11-28T23:58:09.367-05:00HerMy thoughts are with Her this evening. I don't know whether I should applaud or cry for Her. She says she is happy so I will be happy too.<br />
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I wanted everything that she had growing up. She seemed to have it all. She made all the right choices while I was the one to go astray over...and over....again. I learned a lot in those mistakes that helped me be intentional about future choices. Her choices never seemed mistakes. I was always the type who needed to know more than just what the "right decision" was....I needed to know why all the others were "wrong". She never seemed to even wonder.<br />
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Her home was filled with boundless opportunities while I struggled to create my own. Money doesn't buy happiness but it certainly creates opportunities.<br />
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Her family is beautiful and with them, she has all the time in the world. Mine is so small it could disappear in a moment.And I often fear it will.<br />
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I could never compete with her. The criteria I used to judge seemed relevant but now seems so empty. <br />
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I want to show her all that she has.<br />
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Her brilliant mind wouldn't wrap itself around my simple ideals. <br />
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She may even take offense.<br />
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Her beliefs, politics, and values can be different than mine. I just wish they were enough to make her smile. <br />
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Her smile is light.<br />
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Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-4664705542680403132012-11-26T01:08:00.001-05:002012-11-26T01:08:30.375-05:00Weekender....This weekend was beautiful.<br />
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Here are some highlights:<br />
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Learned to crochet with my sister. She is brilliant at it. I am not sure what I am making but I have some Icelandic wool yarn that deserves a clean stitch so I am practicing. Also she taught me to stick a colorful, simple, recycled rag rug that now dons my kitchen with color and comfort.<br />
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Homemade soap from my dad...always a treat. <br />
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Long walk with my favorite aunt. We have done this for years when I am home or when she is at the cabin. Five miles is nothing with our talks...<br />
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Phenomenal weather and lots of kid time outside. My nieces and nephews are great. Very strong personalities but so much fun!<br />
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Lots of cooking, baking, and eating...my kind of weekend.<br />
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Sewing with mom. I have some beautiful things to wear and soon will have a covered pallet bench.<br />
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New pillows.<br />
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Two hour drive through the mountains. Clear skies and fabulous sunset. I forgot how much I missed my mountains.<br />
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Dinner with my little bro, his wife, and BFF. They make me feel like I am in college again. We also watched the football game-Packers lost :(. We did however plan a camping trip in the snow. Definately one to check off the bucket list.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-76469560300264029512012-11-10T17:33:00.001-05:002012-11-10T17:33:20.413-05:00Simplify, simplify, simplify...My mind has been racing since Tuesday night. I don't identify with any specific political affiliation per se but my support has been given based almost entirely on fiscal decisions this election. I have watched over the last three and a half years as the cost of food, gas, and interest have grown faster than in the past. Trust me, I have a fabulous partner who tracks down to the penny where our money goes (he wrote the pre-post to this one). I could show you pie graphs or bar charts...it's purely objective. If anything our lifestyle has become more simple over the years so you would expect that spending would drop but with rising costs, this is not the case. To say I am concerned is an understatement.<br />
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Has anyone else experienced this?<br />
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There have been multiple attempts to offset these costs ie I RARELY buy meat anymore. Sure we eat meat on the rare occasion that we go out, but in our home, vegetarian meals have drastically reduced the cost. DIY has become commonplace in our home and thrift stores are our go-to for necessities.<br />
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I get comments from friends and family about my spending (well, lack of) but as I read on a blog a few weeks ago,"if others aren't commenting on your (lack of) spending habits, it is not remarkable enough to make a difference". We have dual incomes and we do alright but I want better than "alright" in my home. I want <em>freedom</em> from rising food, gas, and interest costs. <br />
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I have found myself the last few days realizing that I have a lot more control in this than I initially thought. Thank goodness I have Google and that there are so many people out there that are years ahead of me on this topic that I can learn from. Thank goodness I had a friend in grad school who first taught me how to cook something out of nothing. Thank goodness I have a Mr. who feels as strongly about this issue as I. <br />
Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-74481971908618231312012-11-10T15:27:00.003-05:002012-11-10T15:27:42.645-05:00Moving Forward...some words from the Mr.<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_509eb7fc945f92b75517221">
<span class="userContent">OFFICIAL NOTICE OF STRIKE ACTION<br /> <br /> Dateline: November 9, 2012; 5:00 PM CST, Milwaukee WI<br /> <br /> Tuesday’s election was a tipping point. A majority of the country voted their self interests over the good of the economy, the Nation, and the Constitution. As a result, in the past few days we have seen scores of layoff announcements and a stock market drop. We are faced in the short term with rising ta<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><div class="text_exposed_show">
x rates and drastic mandated spending cuts all looming by or at year’s end. Both the President and the Speaker will each claim a mandate, and the result will be a stalemate. If a deal should happen to get done, does anyone really think there will be any real reduction in our deficit and debt? More than likely the best that will happen is a bad deal that will only raise our deficit to $1.4 trillion instead of $1.6 trillion. Talk about your Pyrrhic victory.<br /> <br /> Over the next four years we will see unemployment rise as employers are forced into survival mode. They will lay off employees or reduce hours to offset tax increases and to avoid meeting the minimum number of employees to fall under the ObamaTax mandates. The employment rate when the President took office in January in 2009 was 7.8%. When re-elected it was 7.9%. We will be lucky to be in the single digits when we select our next President in 2016.<br /> <br /> As the Fed continues to print money and as the President wages his war on fossil fuels we will see prices at the pumps and on the shelves rise while real disposable income declines. We will see out of pocket costs for health care rise as employers opt to pay the fine ($2K) rather than provide health insurance ($6 - $12K) in order to stay afloat. By 2016, we will have double digit inflation.<br /> <br /> Right now we have historically low interests rates, but even this has not loosened the reins on the economy. As inflation kicks in rates will rise which will not only make consumer and business borrowing less attractive, but these same interest rate increases will explode the cost just to service our national debt, much less knock down any principal. Expect to see double digit interest rates by 2016.<br /> <br /> All this while enduring perhaps the most corrupt and secretive administration in history (hey, nobody DIED during the Watergate Cover Up) that allows our embassies to be attacked and our drones shot down over international waters without response, all while offering “flexibility” to the nation that is and will be the biggest backer of our Middle Eastern enemies.<br /> <br /> Since a majority of Americans in enough states have voted for their self interests over that of the economy, Nation, and Constitution, I will also be going into survival mode like many other American families and business. Consider this my notice of strike action.<br /> <br /> It’s simple really. Generally speaking spending falls into five main categories: 1) Taxes (off the top, can’t avoid them) 2) Necessities (you have to eat and sleep) 3) Obligations (you have to honor your commitments) 4) Savings (you won’t work forever) and finally, after taking care of the first four, you have 5) Discretionary income.<br /> <br /> When the costs of the first three skyrocket and the returns on the fourth plummet (or even turn NEGATIVE) the only place left to cut is in the last category – discretionary spending. So I’m on strike. I’m not spending – not to intentionally hurt the economy or my fellow Americans but because I have an obligation to myself and my family to provide for our present and try to secure our future, espcecially when the upcoming economic catastrophe is so forseeable. My wife will still pay her tithing and I’ll still support my charitable causes (we count these as voluntary obligations rather than necessities) but going out for date night, buying a new outfit, or taking that trip will be replaced with playing board games at home, stocking up on food storage and water, and moving to somewhere remote. <br /> <br /> I worked my way through school tending bar and delivering pizzas, and I was grateful to every customer who gave or left me a tip that supported me for four years. To this day when I go out I am overly generous with my server. Sadly, the pizza parlor down the block won’t get my business this Friday, the delivery driver won’t get my tip, and when enough people can’t or won’t participate in the economy people will lose their jobs. But hey, you have free birth control…at least you’ll have something to do when you’re sitting at home watching Jerry Springer wishing someone who knew about business was running the economy.<br /> <br /> For those who made it this far, thanks for reading…I’ve never been much of a long winded Facebook poster (I usually just link to other long winded columnists). If you agree with my stance and will be striking also, please LIKE and SHARE this post. I’m really curious to know if I’m the only one that feels this way after Tuesday.<br /> <br /> John <a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=539732556" href="http://www.facebook.com/maegan.sutton">Sutton</a></div>
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Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-69179807216079846412012-11-05T23:07:00.000-05:002012-11-05T23:07:17.066-05:00A Season of Thanks...Reflecting. This November I seem to have an overabundance of gratitude. Yesterday I sat alone for an hour thinking about all I have been blessed with, yet this doesn't even scratch the surface...<br />
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I grew up in a home where I was taught to share and accept responsibility. I had an older brother who taught me how to make the world work for me as opposed to being a product of my circumstances. I have parents who supported all of my big ideas and helped me through the changes and transition that inevitably came with each and everyone of them. <br />
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I have had opportunities to gain education and now am able to do something I enjoy without having to work weekends, late nights, or holidays. I have opportunities to increase my knowledge daily. I have former coworkers who have taught me so much and now two fabulous teachers to "show me the way" in this new place.<br />
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I have had incredible opportunities to travel the world and have experiences that I would never have dreamed. I have had the chance to live in other countries and get to know new cultures and ways of living. I believe this has given me better perspective and ability to relate to others in more specific ways. <br />
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I have the greatest group of friends. Each so different. Some even like sisters. Their strength and examples are remarkable. <br />
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I have a protector, Lover, and ultimate friend who I get to enjoy the rest of my life with. He is mine. He has taught me great lessons and continues to teach me new things. He makes my world go 'round. He makes me want to be better.<br />
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<span id="goog_87747166"></span><span id="goog_87747167"></span><br />Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-50634763170139180442012-10-09T22:56:00.000-04:002012-10-09T22:56:20.171-04:00Year three...Year three begins with "dual residences" again.<br />
How do I ever agree to this.<br />
A glorified name for " long distance relationship".<br />
We met and married "too soon" by anyone else's standards.<br />
I waited my whole life for YOU.<br />
It was worth the wait.<br />
A million times over.<br />
It wasn't soon enough for me.<br />
Nothing about US has been typical.<br />
Tonight I almost wish we were.<br />
The couple with a nine to five<br />
Followed by tv and then off to bed.<br />
Entirely predictable.<br />
I could go for that tonight.<br />
Instead I count down until next time.<br />
I read and reread your sweet exchanges<br />
Evidences of the distance.<br />
Evidences more of your unfailing support.<br />
I know this is for ME.<br />
A gift only you can give.<br />
And for this I am thankful.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-55237942705274084942012-09-17T23:19:00.001-04:002012-09-17T23:19:16.361-04:00A return to simple...I used to spend my summer vacations in a small town. So small that it wasn't on a map and the largest building in the community was a red, one- room schoolhouse. The farm hand taught me to ride horses and I would play in the barn, climbing the stacks of hay along with the mice. My grandmother grew rhubarb and told us not to eat the leaves. She made butterscotch pudding for dessert. My grandpa would take his boots off at the door and hang his Stetson on a horseshoe shaped hook. Summers were easy there. We played card games in the evening and I would fall asleep on the pull out couch. <br />
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I am back. Different town but same culture. Neighbors I just met bringing fresh vegetables from their gardens. Strangers waving at me as I drive into town simply because "that's what farmers do". I still can't believe I am here. Glaring differences between people here and everywhere else.Awkward at times because I have become a guarded city girl in a sense. Often my responses seem strange and disconnected. Almost like I have to explain, "yes I am from here", tempered with "But a long time ago". <br />
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Despite the awkwardness, things are familiar here. Comfortable. Simple. <br />
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Soon enough, it will get substantially better. Soon I will call it Home. Counting days Love.<br />
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Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-29405382737690837222012-07-29T20:39:00.002-04:002012-07-29T20:40:58.011-04:00Oh the colors....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I cannot believe that it is already time to plant our winter vegetables. I forgot to take a picture before we picked today but instead I took some pics of some of our harvest. I love all the vibrant colors. When I get seeds I love to choose multi colored varieties. They are so much fun and make for beautiful, healthier meals. I took an updated picture after we harvested so the garden looks a little bare. If you can imagine though, the entire thing as full as our cucumber plants on the left side of the picture (there are also eggplants and leeks underneath that monster, which continue to grow successfully despite the cucumber overgrowth.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkN7KUmjuGU0zKa_aY85flbzqUmcK3cYoVRez3t1qbPl1suaQw3XNwL63xy-3YGvizAVNPx8ebADOo2VB-rvBJpHdaEFvYLky-o0DgXMJZ0xTVc4joAX-qbzco5QlNRAZoGNg-SICtBY/s1600/IMG_1089%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkN7KUmjuGU0zKa_aY85flbzqUmcK3cYoVRez3t1qbPl1suaQw3XNwL63xy-3YGvizAVNPx8ebADOo2VB-rvBJpHdaEFvYLky-o0DgXMJZ0xTVc4joAX-qbzco5QlNRAZoGNg-SICtBY/s400/IMG_1089%5B1%5D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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We planted the winter vegetables which means fall is not too far away. I count down to September like a child counts down to Christmas. Things will be busy this next month. I get to see my girlfriends for our annual trip. An Alaskan Cruise! This will be my first cruise ever and I am looking forward to it. So many good things right now. Multiple times a week I find myself turning to the Mr. commenting about how blessed I feel right now. I sound like a broken record I am sure but I can't help it. God is good.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-54147269083210602482012-07-10T01:05:00.000-04:002012-07-10T01:05:06.491-04:00In the Moment...This summer has been chaotic. I can't believe it has been so long since I last blogged. I look at the pictures in my last post and I am astonished at how much our garden has exploded. You will too once you see the pics I will take soon. Life has been fantastic. The last few weeks were full of Girls Camp, a trip to Utah, a unique new job opportunity, planning for the Alaskan Cruise with the girls, and lots of time with the Mr. I can't believe how busy life has become. A few opportunities have opened up for some changes. I don't want to jinx anything but I am anxiously anticipating how they may impact the next year. Times like these I wish I had the ability to slow my mind and enjoy the here and now a little more fully. Somehow this anticipation makes the day to day things difficult to focus on. I always seem to want to "fast forward" when really this "here and now" is pretty dang sweet.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-81439262584180000942012-05-20T12:11:00.000-04:002012-05-20T12:11:15.634-04:00Update...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaloM9gVS9ruIBqq77lmKjS2ymu67y20u8KYpKjgS5-7MbaL7BbrhPziqvjAEW9Yat2wprVy3klfRoZgVEcq9uBWUzD-RZNCP1EEXZmyJi1YFvLF8mNxAx3wG2CtBMP8nghyphenhyphenmSmWM0Dy0/s1600/100_1467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaloM9gVS9ruIBqq77lmKjS2ymu67y20u8KYpKjgS5-7MbaL7BbrhPziqvjAEW9Yat2wprVy3klfRoZgVEcq9uBWUzD-RZNCP1EEXZmyJi1YFvLF8mNxAx3wG2CtBMP8nghyphenhyphenmSmWM0Dy0/s320/100_1467.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yTAc1MrOVDNIofky5VBRHvXS3ZhFhDUw9PPyUZvTMkfpYJkPr09wNweg1iEw7sPFl3d7rWMeyytP549qrp1ivaHFo9gd4POQc9KwVBX_UsUjQpBVqPMl3KWDzJaS_GT30NWt7yERGtk/s1600/100_1473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yTAc1MrOVDNIofky5VBRHvXS3ZhFhDUw9PPyUZvTMkfpYJkPr09wNweg1iEw7sPFl3d7rWMeyytP549qrp1ivaHFo9gd4POQc9KwVBX_UsUjQpBVqPMl3KWDzJaS_GT30NWt7yERGtk/s320/100_1473.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This growing season has blessed us well. We were able to get an early start on the garden and this was our first year starting nearly everything from seed. We have an abundance of greens, fresh and organic. Have you heard about these green juices. Supposed to be powerhouses of nutrients and vitamins. It is an easy way for us to use a variety of greens. Todays juice: bok choy, parsley, spinach, three lettuce varieties, beets and radishes (green tops included), and arugula. </div>
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Things have been good here at the Sutton house. I feel as though life has slowed down a lot with the changes. I like it. More time to really soak it all in.</div>Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-10493399688191417932012-04-22T18:10:00.000-04:002012-04-22T18:10:25.150-04:00Happy Earth Day!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7XV5WXo9V8GwpmS8kBRcimRQzsMp9hR0NepqD40ARGEHsqppuR2uhIppia5DUXVtZWdWJ5EAQ21Y1wFdNZoWVEl7vX0v01vtxylGqBBOOwdNe6SdUd4KAY1i21W1cn_aEuDFmIbHDKY/s1600/168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7XV5WXo9V8GwpmS8kBRcimRQzsMp9hR0NepqD40ARGEHsqppuR2uhIppia5DUXVtZWdWJ5EAQ21Y1wFdNZoWVEl7vX0v01vtxylGqBBOOwdNe6SdUd4KAY1i21W1cn_aEuDFmIbHDKY/s320/168.JPG" width="320" /></a>There is nothing better than fresh herbs and vegetables when cooking. Especially when they are grown in your own backyard. There are so many health benefits from growing your own garden. Benefits both physically and mentally. My favorite reason for gardening is that organic produce is much cheaper when produced on your own and it tastes so much better! I grew up in a home with a kitchen garden. I was always responsible for helping to weed it and that was about the extent of my gardening knowledge. The Mr. and I started with a 2X4 box for a garden our first year of marriage. As you can see below, it has expanded substantially. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0U0MUHDZlc6Z4OL8XfrUdl3fWqoIVpCf-ZMGnI-gM7PfRc4EspRpdOrxgS4gW2pO8vNAy2ZnLjVNGd83Ll_OFC4IffpzZSzFuA0aoPsIYl-_dsZa9HuFz47rNYfPtG6dLAjpadm301pM/s1600/169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0U0MUHDZlc6Z4OL8XfrUdl3fWqoIVpCf-ZMGnI-gM7PfRc4EspRpdOrxgS4gW2pO8vNAy2ZnLjVNGd83Ll_OFC4IffpzZSzFuA0aoPsIYl-_dsZa9HuFz47rNYfPtG6dLAjpadm301pM/s320/169.JPG" width="320" /></a> The top picture is our indoor herb garden. Our kitchen has two large windows that let in a lot of light. The Mr. built two shelves that go across the windows so the herbs do not take up any counter space (limited in our place). It also makes it very convenient for cooking. So what is in our outdoor garden you ask? Carrots, beets, greens (arugula, spinach, swiss chard, green leaf lettuce, bibb lettuce), bok choy, bell peppers, jalepenos, chilies, tomatoes (beefsteak, roma), sugar snap peas, grean beans, zucchini, strawberries, broccoli, cucumbers and our newest addition...a blueberry bush. It is hard to believe all of that fits in this small space. I cannot wait until the plants begin to fill in the empty space and we can begin using the vegetables. That is definately the best part. Happy Gardening!</div>
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P.S. to start your own garden use<span style="color: #274e13;"> smartgardener.com</span> to help you plan and learn when and how to plant.</div>Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-19946444618756719322012-04-13T00:02:00.000-04:002012-04-13T00:02:02.092-04:00Spring...It has been a lifetime that I have sat down at the computer simply for the purpose of writing. A lot of changes here in Milwaukee. Mostly very good. I am tired though. With the change of the seasons, watching the tiny seedlings in my garden sprout up and the grass turning green I am reminded of all the opportunities I have had for a "fresh start" throughout my life. Most of this boils down to my beliefs about my relationship with God and this concept that life is meant to give us opportunities to learn and to grow even if the growing is painful. Over the course of the last few months I have had to defend myself and my beliefs on so many different levels. The political climate here in Milwaukee has been chaotic and working for the State I had the opportunity for a front row seat. Combine this with being an active member of a controversial religion in an area where you are the minority. I have a reputation among my friends and colleagues as being "outspoken" and "stubborn" but also the girl that "gets along with everyone". I try to have respect for individuals regardless of who they are or what they believe. Certainly, like everyone, we have biases but I am talking about a general respect. This is a direct consequence of my beliefs and not a sense of altruism if I am being completely honest. I believe that we are all literal children of a loving God and we may not always want to respect/love those around us but we have an obligation. To be perfectly honest I am not sure if this all makes sense even as I write. Again, this writing is therapy for me. After much thought and pondering I have made some big decisions in attempt to reconcile my priorities. I am tired of defending. I look forward to this next season with fondness. Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-4825865010622241122011-10-26T23:30:00.001-04:002011-10-26T23:39:49.539-04:00Water thoughts...There is something about being completely imersed in water. Feeling completely weightless. You can't hear anything but the distinct sounds of the water moving around you. I love to swim laps in the gym. I get lost and for the time spent at the pool, I am completely checked out. At my job I am required to be completely aware and in the moment. It takes more energy than one might realize. To remain completely in tune with all that is going on around you. To be physically, mentally, and emotionally present. <br />
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When I swim laps, I develop a rhythm, albeit slow, it is so methodical that my body can go through the motions but my mind gets to move on to a place I cannot physically be. I am taken back to the summer I spent in the south of France. My mind goes here a lot when I swim. I can almost taste the air again. The dry almost floral scent along with the sound of the cicadas chirping in the distance. Every morning I had the pleasure of going jogging through the vineyards and wheat fields that surrounded our summer villa. The rolling hills were unbelievable. The colors so vibrant and views breathtaking. My words fail me here. <br />
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Perhaps what I recall best were the feelings I felt there. The early morning heat beat down on me but I felt so free! My jog was slow but I felt on top of the world. Here I was in country with a culture and language to which I was not accustomed. The land welcomed me and graced me with feelings I haven't felt since. Here in this new land, I found myself again. Perhaps the best version of myself I had ever seen. <br />
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When I returned to our villa, I jumped straight into the pool. The cool water removing any resemblence of sweat or heat from my body. The difference in those laps and the ones I swim today were that I wanted to stay in that moment forever. I didn't swim to escape. Those laps were different...an embrace.<br />
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My time in France was my first time leaving the country. Perhaps this explains why those memories from over 8 years ago remain so vivid. Since then I have been able to add more memories and experiences. When I dive off the edge of the pool though, the memories of France and who I was there are among my most frequent "water thoughts". At times I have tinges of regret that haunt me in the pool when I think of how far I am today. Thankfulness eventually steps in to remind me that I am lucky that I could have a small taste of these feelings and mindset I may spend the rest of my life pursuing. I believe that someday I will return to that place.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-60245498715577707502011-10-16T21:23:00.002-04:002011-10-16T21:28:18.064-04:00Thoughts...<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGH2kWc4JR9iPswjk8xGxIAFt7OqRrXj1yxCqstZtQ6MAqlT-9abVUBjQ7B40pUVdT69dDvmAdzLXOBIwM8VGFe-nPrs9XT81_8oQdG1vWiKPNqOklSrtkCY6oN_b-4QORmY1miv6uz7k/s1600/Fall-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGH2kWc4JR9iPswjk8xGxIAFt7OqRrXj1yxCqstZtQ6MAqlT-9abVUBjQ7B40pUVdT69dDvmAdzLXOBIwM8VGFe-nPrs9XT81_8oQdG1vWiKPNqOklSrtkCY6oN_b-4QORmY1miv6uz7k/s320/Fall-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: #990000;">“Cherish your visions. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">Cherish your ideals. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">Cherish the music that stirs in your heart, the beauty that forms in your mind, the loveliness that drapes your purest thoughts. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">For out of them will grow all delightful conditions, all heavenly environment, of these, if you but remain true to them, your world will at last be built.” </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">― James Allen, As a Man Thinketh </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;">Today has been full of "delightful conditions". In the spirit of attempting to increase my expressions of gratitude:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;"> I am grateful for good music that inspires and uplifts me, fall scented candles, thrift store finds that bring simple beauty to my home, farmer's markets, good friends new and old, opportunities to experience new things, roasted fall vegetables, family, down slippers, the magazine Whole Living (my new fave), couches made for cuddling, good books, bubble baths, Fall season.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-67465131979365252292011-09-21T22:29:00.000-04:002011-09-21T22:29:12.682-04:00...I have never been much of liar.To a fault. I am always THAT GIRL that frequently has my foot in my mouth because I skip over the "think before you SPEAK" part. Even with small things. Like feelings. I wear them on my sleeve. Anyone who knows me never has to ask "what are you thinking?" or "how are you today?". They just KNOW. <br />
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I wish I could be better. Perhaps if I practice LYING about other things, these truths about myself wouldn't be so blinding. Some say that TRUTH is overrated. I disagree. A lost ART.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-3176652808803486862011-09-18T16:45:00.000-04:002011-09-18T16:45:15.028-04:00You have been chopped....Last Friday night the Mr. and I had date night. It has been difficult with both of us working to fit this in every week. Our fridge was full of single serving, random items that needed to be used and we have been trying to save money and reduce waste. We decided to create our own version of the television show "Chopped" in which contestants are given mystery ingredients and asked to make a delicious dish with these items. We took turns selecting one ingredient out of five from our fridge and attempted to create a culinary masterpiece. The Mr. made a chicken enchilada salad (leftovers used: White bean/sausage/swiss chard soup, lettuce, cabbage, hotwings, salsa, sour cream). I came up with some Italian style potato pancakes with basil tatziki dipping sauce (Leftovers used: Fresh mozzarella, potato logs, bread crumbs, cucumbers, basil) and a creamed brocolli/apple/leek soup. It actually ended up being delicious and food that we had become tired of was reinvented. I enjoy things like this where we can be creative. I should have taken a picture, reading this post back to myself hardly makes it sound good. But it was. ;)Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-61175804262354987042011-09-03T20:13:00.000-04:002011-09-03T20:13:16.250-04:00Good things...Things have been busy around here. My parents came and went. It was so great to have them here to see a glimpse of my life here in WI and to experience some new things with them. Our time was full of The Domes (fabulous indoor gardens in Milwaukee), Dim Sum, gourmet chocolate and hiking. I couldn't believe how quickly time passed while they were here. I was so thankful to have them visit. <br />
Today I canned salsa with the peppers and tomatoes from our garden. My first time solo although it brought back a lot of memories of growing up in a home where summers were for weeding gardens and preserving food. It was tricky trying to do such a large project in my small/humble kitchen but I enjoyed myself. <br />
On Monday we are planting our Fall garden. Our cucumbers continue to produce along with our zucchini, swiss chard, jalapenos, carrots, and of course tomatoes. But the rest of our garden space will be filled with squash, lettuce, peas and beets. Yum! Today I made this delicious cream of zucchini soup. Some warm whole wheat crusty bread made the perfect addition. This along with the huge thunderstorm outside my window hinted at the beginning of Fall. My most favorite season. <br />
Today marks the 2nd wedding anniversary for my Mr. and I. Time certainly does fly. I am so thankful for him along with the other blessings in my life. Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-49672733112177421342011-08-22T00:15:00.000-04:002011-08-22T00:15:53.838-04:00Anticipation.My parents are coming to visit. They haven't been here in nearly 2 years. These will be my first visitors since the move. The next three days are going to be long ones.<br />
Life has been interesting lately. I have spent hours looking at old pictures, home videos, scrapbooks. I read over "the list" a few times...it's been a while. <br />
I suppose I get caught up in the normal day to day. I forget what makes life fabulous for me. I am so thankful for the pictures, ticket stubs, videos, memories that remind me. <br />
The summer is almost over and we are quickly approaching Fall here in Wisconsin. It is my favorite season. Always has been. The changing of the leaves, the wool sweaters, cool breezes. I made pumpkin pancakes today. It seemed slightly premature but the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg put a smile on my face.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaT2pexeJFwFWdMJkFDyNwh-5fZvJKQH49Gt92bs1F08veo4AsbmiJ5-5-79c9AC-r3n29DX8vPud1H58KBCnVKVyoEmCdW9p-Y9FrkcFCof_4A2sDSTIguW2Jl1umD8_fRnuHzQdzH7s/s1600/IMG_4682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaT2pexeJFwFWdMJkFDyNwh-5fZvJKQH49Gt92bs1F08veo4AsbmiJ5-5-79c9AC-r3n29DX8vPud1H58KBCnVKVyoEmCdW9p-Y9FrkcFCof_4A2sDSTIguW2Jl1umD8_fRnuHzQdzH7s/s320/IMG_4682.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Some old pics I came across....I can't begin to be grateful enough when I look at my friends and family and remember all of our great experiences. Humbled.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-37541381991995376942011-04-19T20:34:00.001-04:002011-04-19T20:38:57.701-04:00The best calling in the world.......has to be anything that gets you to girls camp. <br />
<br />
I remember my mom literally had to bribe me to go when I was younger. I didn't care much for the idea of it. By the time the last day came around though, I was sold. I didn't want to leave.<br />
<br />
I have become smarter in my old age.<br />
<br />
Eagerly anticipating...<br />
<br />
PS-Anyone have any great craft ideas and/or sites they want to share?Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-61917596624297272702011-03-30T22:11:00.000-04:002011-03-30T22:11:30.865-04:00Iceland...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppNLKS07volEX9IDsPChqEMOEB8iGj5FIIg9G_k8N3DZacVdjAB99zb3WquQrl04y4-x_LHBNuT8BpkX74sLzHPFiEpy6v0v-kqO3Nv8NZClFRPDTXKxm6XbjvUHIEoGOB_jh4XxvIZ0/s1600/Iceland+2011+%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppNLKS07volEX9IDsPChqEMOEB8iGj5FIIg9G_k8N3DZacVdjAB99zb3WquQrl04y4-x_LHBNuT8BpkX74sLzHPFiEpy6v0v-kqO3Nv8NZClFRPDTXKxm6XbjvUHIEoGOB_jh4XxvIZ0/s320/Iceland+2011+%252814%2529.JPG" width="212" /></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/AVvXsEhiQ1Ev3-LcGEoAyXx6kAF_ggKKePxRwsEa2edkKi2oMyZysCIqmaeo7ammH_7sa6WX-6MXr2anSMlM8nUAVsR1CwbQ244w8JZo7kuyfYVXYW82LtgJ7VnW2RRyd4YH4GmtDt6hqyTWJBQ/s1600/Iceland+2011+%252892%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQ1Ev3-LcGEoAyXx6kAF_ggKKePxRwsEa2edkKi2oMyZysCIqmaeo7ammH_7sa6WX-6MXr2anSMlM8nUAVsR1CwbQ244w8JZo7kuyfYVXYW82LtgJ7VnW2RRyd4YH4GmtDt6hqyTWJBQ/s320/Iceland+2011+%252892%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Was fabulous! <br />
To be in a place where I could go a whole week without hearing about unions.<br />
To spend time with my favorite people.<br />
Breathing fresh air again.<br />
A spectacular view around every corner.<br />
World class spas.<br />
Seriously, an adventure.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-3198392761243216342011-02-19T00:08:00.002-05:002011-10-16T20:45:56.904-04:00Greyhound...<span style="color: blue;">August 7, 2009 I was sitting on a Greyhound bus. I was headed for Wisconsin although I only made it to St. Louis. It was a long and boring trip but the decision to go was simple. The stench was terrible, a mixture of sweat and stale pot. One other woman was there traveling with her teenage son. She spoke broken English but radiated friendliness and warmth like a Mother should. I sat next to a trucker. His large arms were bare beneath his muscle tee. His arm hairs were coarse and prickly and rubbed against my arm leaving behind a red rash. He was from Iowa I think. He presented as a friendly man but his eyes reflected loneliness. My Dad promised me "an experience" by taking the Greyhound. My Dad never spoke a lie in his entire life. This was indeed an experience. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Often in my life I have lept in directions that seem careless and irresponsible. This was another to add to my repertoire. The best things in my life have come from these times when I am brave enough to "jump"...the worst are those when I fail to be brave. My sister once told me I am "lucky". I was offended at the time. All of the experiences and education and friends that I had appealed to her. Did she understand how hard I worked for those things. I had them because I was brave enough to pursue them. I have never believed much in luck. I believe we direct our lives based on the decisions we make (or fail to make). With you I was presented with an opportunity to jump. It was perhaps the furthest and scariest of all. People say these are the ones in which we are most rewarded. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: blue;">I could not possibly be more rewarded. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: blue;"><br />
</span></div><span style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS6AKIszF_EpiLjKfWjhWaS2Wgc8nJhJVrObIhtyyU3_cj1wnWwglD7c9mapC-u2QVCRrSn2yyHG3n_r6gJUVJcaGveVlpQarOtU7I7-SmwC2cK8OP4nfC166sirMPrwXhinqsMV6m4og/s1600/us.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue;"><img border="0" height="320" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS6AKIszF_EpiLjKfWjhWaS2Wgc8nJhJVrObIhtyyU3_cj1wnWwglD7c9mapC-u2QVCRrSn2yyHG3n_r6gJUVJcaGveVlpQarOtU7I7-SmwC2cK8OP4nfC166sirMPrwXhinqsMV6m4og/s320/us.jpg" width="298" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-8164912713286627832011-01-13T22:23:00.000-05:002011-01-13T22:23:34.591-05:00Small moments...My thoughts are scattered and unfocused. Ordinarily, writing has the ability to help me "sort" through things. Tonight everything blends. Beautifully it blends. I am sitting on the couch watching my John be the rockstar Father that he is. His brilliance is lost on 16. Perhaps lost is the wrong word, invested. In ten years, value will be realized. <br />
His leg keeps my feet warm as I type. I am sure it must be rather annoying to continually have cold feet pressed against you. For some reason this is my preference over slippers. Always.<br />
I have become a bit of a "homebody" lately. After a ten hour day, I look forward to coming home. Today was especially long and I walked in the door to find that dinner was almost ready. Things aren't this easy everyday. But mostly.<br />
I want to collect these "snapshots" and put them away. Somewhere safe where they can't deteriorate or crumble. Where I can pull them out an enjoy them on a raining day. Days like this I feel exceptionally lucky.<br />
<br />
Life is good.Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-74294724582982919512011-01-12T22:38:00.000-05:002011-01-12T22:38:48.577-05:00...<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Psalms 46:10</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enough said.</div>Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3762935243331236417.post-28566398497994117222010-12-11T11:25:00.000-05:002010-12-11T11:25:21.624-05:00Holidays...<span style="color: #990000;"> Top Ten Christmas Gloriousnesses</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">1. To see most of my family. In person. Including one tiny addition.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">2. Sushi with the girls. <em>Good sushi</em>.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">3. Baking day with the nieces and nephews.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">4. All night talk-a-thon with my siblings on Christmas Eve with a hot crackling fire.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">5. Visiting with extended fam. It's been too long.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">6. Staying in the cabin. Fireplace, hot springs, books, and great conversation.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">7. Pho</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">8. Prime rib and shrimp dinner on Christmas.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">9. Watching the kids get so excited.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">10. Feeling at home.</span>Maeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01098860173377802861noreply@blogger.com0