tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62346032326064573562024-03-05T17:59:14.962-06:00The Holland HouseHappily ever after starts here.HollandATXhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06694644828605308738noreply@blogger.comBlogger147125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-19669558321526031122017-08-01T15:08:00.001-05:002017-08-02T14:32:33.649-05:00Taco 'bout Love- A Wedding ShowerI love to entertain! We didn't do much at our last house because we were either working on home improvement projects, or we just lived too out of the way for many people to come over. So I was ecstatic to co-host a shower for our good friends Bonnie and Josh not too long after moving in to the new house.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNzpn_ye5orlFGwxG93ekJKlcZyy-LGmrHOd9U6co3Q-r1ROZpmg_5UOg8u5hB25JyXYRNEhApq2dyPqyBQndq6vGPrnQoDPoJbQGukQ016JeXUzKWwe_lOvUXd4GP9MdTVKeaMdInCPY/s1600/Taco+Bout+Love+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fiesta Shower Cookie Favors" border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNzpn_ye5orlFGwxG93ekJKlcZyy-LGmrHOd9U6co3Q-r1ROZpmg_5UOg8u5hB25JyXYRNEhApq2dyPqyBQndq6vGPrnQoDPoJbQGukQ016JeXUzKWwe_lOvUXd4GP9MdTVKeaMdInCPY/s1600/Taco+Bout+Love+cookies.jpg" title="Fiesta Shower Cookies" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom cookie favors for guests to take home. </td></tr>
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A little back story on the party theme.... Hank and I are part of a running group in Austin called Gilbert's Gazelles, and every Saturday we have a post-long run tradition of getting breakfast tacos at Taco Deli. Bonnie is known as the "Queen B" of our group, and after she marries Josh, they will be relocating to Alabama. Our group of friends wanted to do something really special for her, and thought this theme would be a fun way to shower them with love and well wishes.<br />
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We lucked out with the most incredible weather for a late June party. Given the size (about 35 people), I wanted to have tables and chairs in the backyard so that everyone could spread out and eat comfortably. Temps were in the low 80's that evening and we were able be outside without dying in the Texas heat. You can read below for all the details on this fun shower theme!<br />
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<b>Invitation</b><br />
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Every good party needs a fun invitation. We used <i><a href="http://evite.com/"><b>evite.com</b></a></i> to manage the guest list. As much as I love paper invites, this was just the easier route. I also appreciated the fact that we could upload a custom digital image. My very talented friend Becky recently opened an Etsy shop for her party goods business <i><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/BubbyandBitty?ref=search_shop_redirect" target="_blank"><b>Bubby & Bitty</b></a></i>. I went to her with a few ideas for an invitation, and she put together an invite that far exceeded my expectations. She also created a matching "fill in the blanks" card, and some fun photo booth props.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6DUvIwCH-mBdOiFmxvIiLs-bvoMY3pAdvW9k3eAT4gmVvHxG0NvUAbSQB0gnRs2s_Hfuud3vmVx3B1s2Rkvxg8vr2RvjUll465b96NaRhmBPzXN2jETY1BN4t5sJs7Sb0sGh417cQrpU/s1600/Shower+Invite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Taco 'bout Love Shower Invitation" border="0" data-original-height="978" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6DUvIwCH-mBdOiFmxvIiLs-bvoMY3pAdvW9k3eAT4gmVvHxG0NvUAbSQB0gnRs2s_Hfuud3vmVx3B1s2Rkvxg8vr2RvjUll465b96NaRhmBPzXN2jETY1BN4t5sJs7Sb0sGh417cQrpU/s1600/Shower+Invite.jpg" title="Taco 'bout Love Shower Invitation" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#tacoboutlove party invitation</td></tr>
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<b>Food and Drinks</b><br />
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Two other couples hosted the shower with us, so there was plenty of help to pull this off. I went back and forth over having the event catered, or doing it myself. I really love to cook and I knew that I could make taco fillings better than a caterer. Plus, I love any chance to cook in my new kitchen right now. So I made a menu with items that could all be prepared ahead of time, and was thrilled with how it all turned out.<br />
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Veggies/hummus/nuts/olives for light appetizers<br />
Beef Picadillo and <i><a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/4-ingredient-slow-cooker-salsa-verde-chicken-recipe/" target="_blank"><b>Crockpot Verde Chicken</b></a></i> for taco fillings<br />
Corn and Flour Tortillas picked up fresh from <i><a href="http://www.el-milagro.com/main.html" target="_blank"><b>El Milagro</b></a></i> in Austin<br />
Chips and homemade guacamole<br />
Watermelon and Blackberry Salad (<i><a href="https://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/watermelon-blackberry-and-mint-salad/" target="_blank"><b>link to recipe</b></a></i>)<br />
Texas Caviar (black bean and corn salad that also doubled as a vegetarian filling)<br />
Mexican Coleslaw (<i><a href="http://www.virtuallyhomemade.com/2014/07/easy-sweet-and-spicy-mexican-cole-slaw.html?m=1" target="_blank"><b>link to recipe</b></a></i>)<br />
Key Lime Bars (<i><a href="https://lilluna.com/key-lime-pie-bars/" target="_blank"><b>link to recipe</b></a></i>)<br />
Churro Cupcakes (<i><a href="http://www.swankyrecipes.com/churro-cupcakes.html" target="_blank"><b>link to recipe</b></a></i>)<br />
Sweet Elise custom cookies for party favors<br />
Salsa from <i><a href="http://www.tacodeli.com/" target="_blank"><b>Taco Deli</b></a></i><br />
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Topo Chico and Limeade for non-alcoholic options<br />
Margaritas<br />
Wine<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6nBXZr2KiYDBIdlo-L2MOCLkbtQc9QjoZL0S5tSE2O9dIDmvjH1xp4u-7qp6O1USyTdMzNRSD9uCLVLDUaUN4jla3sYt0t4-TqmqXMpLxVNQf0H7a4FOxAosLIordZuTgfmuHdt3oOg/s1600/Appetizers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Party Appetizers" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6nBXZr2KiYDBIdlo-L2MOCLkbtQc9QjoZL0S5tSE2O9dIDmvjH1xp4u-7qp6O1USyTdMzNRSD9uCLVLDUaUN4jla3sYt0t4-TqmqXMpLxVNQf0H7a4FOxAosLIordZuTgfmuHdt3oOg/s1600/Appetizers.jpg" title="Party Appetizers" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Appetizers and drinks on the island made for easy access for guests to help themselves. </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFYctWdDCQwcOaW5WVUCXA6RLK86UH1c3LOVFytMzUYOLcay9GIizzQGjUlUsBvByiEby2vjtlnYurZgdbrsnLjzxSezyJUBChrtFREvZCmOqELAJyQ5CLWI59aQlYlLMpJGaWDK6oE_M/s1600/Napkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Personalized Napkins" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFYctWdDCQwcOaW5WVUCXA6RLK86UH1c3LOVFytMzUYOLcay9GIizzQGjUlUsBvByiEby2vjtlnYurZgdbrsnLjzxSezyJUBChrtFREvZCmOqELAJyQ5CLWI59aQlYlLMpJGaWDK6oE_M/s1600/Napkins.jpg" title="Personalized Napkins" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Personalized cocktail and dinner napkins were a fun touch. </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhF03CqfJqpl0vICQmR2Jk5wmqGHJ-2fhacuYVNc3ZflYi1jqSSJih08K1L57A9m2blbXdYQa93kAlF5NFgRxWhdCSBF24PSYWsLWmlN169mknMhBlGH7IWbym38Mch60XyfSqNUb2jOo/s1600/Taco+Bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Taco Bar Sign" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhF03CqfJqpl0vICQmR2Jk5wmqGHJ-2fhacuYVNc3ZflYi1jqSSJih08K1L57A9m2blbXdYQa93kAlF5NFgRxWhdCSBF24PSYWsLWmlN169mknMhBlGH7IWbym38Mch60XyfSqNUb2jOo/s1600/Taco+Bar.jpg" title="Taco Bar Sign" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this quote. </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHsqTQNKcFnl4fSGR6qu8ypGgHcdpv_E1_1VI1WxeeKf0ATXduAWKe4nz2wKKQGsPsNtJtKcRSj6XuNnS7EkFAY0e9Lcii7eTRAmK-3yekvVyouW6TpVAJMelDzOqFX1eLJy2sFTGyUs/s1600/Salsa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Salsas" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHsqTQNKcFnl4fSGR6qu8ypGgHcdpv_E1_1VI1WxeeKf0ATXduAWKe4nz2wKKQGsPsNtJtKcRSj6XuNnS7EkFAY0e9Lcii7eTRAmK-3yekvVyouW6TpVAJMelDzOqFX1eLJy2sFTGyUs/s1600/Salsa.jpg" title="Salsas" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salsa from Taco Deli.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVm11lYxP6uuMpPJe24dueEDy6_AtEwFvFowAvRROsvYk8p68uSwrUiJgO7MVFpPoKYWYtfq2KBHIwWzUiiZTn2ttelwiG7Uv_lVPhfySf91o5AghpMjhGod0wQONse9QRpc8rJRiGQ8/s1600/Topo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Topo Chico" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVm11lYxP6uuMpPJe24dueEDy6_AtEwFvFowAvRROsvYk8p68uSwrUiJgO7MVFpPoKYWYtfq2KBHIwWzUiiZTn2ttelwiG7Uv_lVPhfySf91o5AghpMjhGod0wQONse9QRpc8rJRiGQ8/s1600/Topo.jpg" title="Topo Chico" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Topo Chico is a lot more fun than plain water bottles. Costco has a case for a good price. </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1JWb7AJDoZQhcVs-jSUkqxZKsqXxc__FXv6icGrS3uFvkhIzVhOlgbYHhFT4eo9gXj26zMisEXa310vHlVDuv6ecM6djTOvgy7WY98avkf_QLxUyz9WvwPysjRNXkbtdy9XwdCCFNZuU/s1600/Cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Churro Cupcakes" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1JWb7AJDoZQhcVs-jSUkqxZKsqXxc__FXv6icGrS3uFvkhIzVhOlgbYHhFT4eo9gXj26zMisEXa310vHlVDuv6ecM6djTOvgy7WY98avkf_QLxUyz9WvwPysjRNXkbtdy9XwdCCFNZuU/s1600/Cupcakes.jpg" title="Churro Cupcakes" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Churro Cupcakes were amazing- definitely give the recipe a try.</td></tr>
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<b>Decorations</b><br />
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I tried to keep decorations fairly simple. We opted for round tables and white chairs outside with white tablecloths, then added colorful flower centerpieces, succulents potted in tin cans, and a few candles on each table. I probably Pinterested tabletop ideas to death, and am really glad I decided to just keep it simple. I didn't get a picture of the actual taco bar, but we had big sunflowers in a blue and white pottery piece, and a fun chalkboard sign with the phrase "first comes love, then comes tacos". I found the blank sign at Home Goods for $4.99, and used my cookie projector to space out the wording just right. We also ordered personalized napkins, and sent the extra home for the soon-to-be newlyweds to use in the future.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_QDKTFQnKqlW5uHraYA4qn_U_Qg1VqCvjPDuTOUzvpmRPX4Nj66Ehd3kCDDTRCca7QuU3LNY5ctmPdHT0MvKJsyn9n-VGpxuuq_xZ-zqZr4OSOBROxLwGPF9YWA9LWbbxk2BmL9clY-c/s1600/Backyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Backyard Table Setup" border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_QDKTFQnKqlW5uHraYA4qn_U_Qg1VqCvjPDuTOUzvpmRPX4Nj66Ehd3kCDDTRCca7QuU3LNY5ctmPdHT0MvKJsyn9n-VGpxuuq_xZ-zqZr4OSOBROxLwGPF9YWA9LWbbxk2BmL9clY-c/s1600/Backyard.jpg" title="Backyard Table Setup" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard set up with a few rental tables. </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_F6idl1ztZuMXLOyc0t1NyBgHpSsxzU-CexjtbZOXERWR8iqwnNDSR1LBCSa-_RfRfpWl2wtOxQhbc1wlxZGowX3IYQH6Ra2gGC1WDVMIvgEl8f_P-0XjSREeqzQZo5qNcTHy_BzGu4/s1600/Centerpiece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fiesta Table Centerpieces" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_F6idl1ztZuMXLOyc0t1NyBgHpSsxzU-CexjtbZOXERWR8iqwnNDSR1LBCSa-_RfRfpWl2wtOxQhbc1wlxZGowX3IYQH6Ra2gGC1WDVMIvgEl8f_P-0XjSREeqzQZo5qNcTHy_BzGu4/s1600/Centerpiece.jpg" title="Table Centerpieces" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table centerpieces. (Those El Pato cans are hard to find!)</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNt0e9ydJ5X-nEiJ9mz0pgtMAQj5veSCyPnZ2YissV7w5Ve7rK7rd80O8CZhYAoTxzUe9uVIdznvnYC0qf-WDjGJpUfpALaYxoF1ligHwDyE-pzsf0r7DZnaUtR45EDApO-xhNZ0ZzQ4/s1600/Friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNt0e9ydJ5X-nEiJ9mz0pgtMAQj5veSCyPnZ2YissV7w5Ve7rK7rd80O8CZhYAoTxzUe9uVIdznvnYC0qf-WDjGJpUfpALaYxoF1ligHwDyE-pzsf0r7DZnaUtR45EDApO-xhNZ0ZzQ4/s1600/Friends.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good friends make every party perfect!</td></tr>
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My favorite part of the party (and one that was really popular with the guests) was the photo booth we had upstairs. I borrowed a backdrop stand from my photographer friend, hung a white sheet over it, and added some <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013KQXE12/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank"><b>bright colored fans</b></a></i> that I ordered on Amazon. On a table across from it I had some fun props I picked up at Party City, along with <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MS4FX5D/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank"><b>signs</b></a></i> that I ordered from Amazon. I provided an <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WW64YM6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank"><b>Instax Mini Camera</b></a></i> (along with some simple instructions), so that guests could take pictures to contribute to a mini photo album for Bonnie to take with her when she moves. I *think* the album was made by <i><a href="http://heidiswapp.com/" target="_blank"><b>Heidi Swapp</b></a></i>. I got it on sale at Michael's and can't seem to find anything similar to link.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYAttGh7M24TbCq5s51kWWm8AY_lQGnw4RHAN22RpfiLcNO39Ho-E77_nycGEjnU2GqfPr7ahrpEvJkAOwz8yREXovf-yt-qzNQqIASQEzvN5IB6h6LXZ4TO2ZhXIUugzG69mgIGOJTmk/s1600/Photo+Booth+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Instax Photo Booth" border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYAttGh7M24TbCq5s51kWWm8AY_lQGnw4RHAN22RpfiLcNO39Ho-E77_nycGEjnU2GqfPr7ahrpEvJkAOwz8yREXovf-yt-qzNQqIASQEzvN5IB6h6LXZ4TO2ZhXIUugzG69mgIGOJTmk/s1600/Photo+Booth+Collage.jpg" title="Photo Booth" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Booth Set-Up, and lovely hosts Murphy and Shelly.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLInY-tiSpPc6TOOKm24NSqVbh5o3bjB2YV_LAkELB7oisCP5FF1RGnCS0A-zuSVksoEIkonhmeXYJ2LE1KRsaGWoZBjSN0DVYBxJX71mw9FKRfZW2zPp4XZcRk2YYLbdky3aqD2HVftk/s1600/Hosts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLInY-tiSpPc6TOOKm24NSqVbh5o3bjB2YV_LAkELB7oisCP5FF1RGnCS0A-zuSVksoEIkonhmeXYJ2LE1KRsaGWoZBjSN0DVYBxJX71mw9FKRfZW2zPp4XZcRk2YYLbdky3aqD2HVftk/s1600/Hosts.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were too busy to get a good polaroid, but we did stop long enough to take a picture on the back porch.</td></tr>
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Overall it was a <span style="font-size: small;">really fun and memorable party. We had a blast planning it with our good friends, and enjoyed doing something special for Bonnie and Josh. What are your favorite party themes?</span><br />
<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-82536452774637378702017-07-27T10:17:00.000-05:002017-07-27T10:17:15.439-05:00Hello from the other side (of Austin)What a crazy ride it's been since my last post on February 1. We sold our home in Steiner Ranch and then closed on our new home in Circle C a week later. Due to timing though, we had to find temporary housing for 2.5 months. Would you believe that I told you we ended up in the exact same apartment that I lived in when I first met Hank? (like, the literal EXACT same numbered unit?!) It was not nearly the romantic interlude that I envisioned in my head. Sharing the tiny second bedroom as we both worked from home, with 4 animals who were all pretty freaked out by the move, made for a somewhat stressful and cramped stay. Fortunately it went by pretty quickly, and we are officially moved in and almost settled into our lovely new home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxdx26MNo88bwY3RwJtUWQcxG6UakbQ0ubSqQXSBeBzwOnjUgVlGLgKlWpAE_6V4Yx94Nv5KbgJO5QBi_vLt1T5Qr4aCMZYmD7B88BoHqJ7PYaJ9LyRqWbkEfKaSWarwKV3ba_HvH7nk/s1600/Front+of+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House" border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxdx26MNo88bwY3RwJtUWQcxG6UakbQ0ubSqQXSBeBzwOnjUgVlGLgKlWpAE_6V4Yx94Nv5KbgJO5QBi_vLt1T5Qr4aCMZYmD7B88BoHqJ7PYaJ9LyRqWbkEfKaSWarwKV3ba_HvH7nk/s1600/Front+of+house.jpg" title="The Holland House" /></a></div>
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Meet the new Holland House! We gained about 500 square feet, and had some immediate furniture needs to address when we moved in. However, the house is barely a year old and has minimal projects (hello weekend freedom!) Hank has a dedicated office downstairs, and mine is upstairs facing out the front of the house (it's still a big work in progress right now). We also have a very empty upstairs living room that will hopefully be furnished in time for football season. We'd love to have a comfy couch and a big TV for movie watching and Sunday football marathons.<br />
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Shortly after moving in we did a little sprucing up to the front flower bed. It still had the original builder's package- just a few uninspired shrubs and plants, some of which weren't alive anymore. My parents helped us plan and pick out something more original, and after a hard afternoon of work, it now looks like this.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJq9L_QmaLWAj1yX3Rtr6aX_X33E56LsmMGCdkZVW3Ywt_BmmeZP0VVDwZY6ZwzehxMbcSNzSzpUcL74LoZjRYqjmd1ZFNkFh0OktbrmXa8MlSVTTJA3eFRafn2Jl0lwwO5GjIQqI3Qs/s1600/Front+Yard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Front yard landscaping" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJq9L_QmaLWAj1yX3Rtr6aX_X33E56LsmMGCdkZVW3Ywt_BmmeZP0VVDwZY6ZwzehxMbcSNzSzpUcL74LoZjRYqjmd1ZFNkFh0OktbrmXa8MlSVTTJA3eFRafn2Jl0lwwO5GjIQqI3Qs/s1600/Front+Yard.jpg" title="Front yard landscaping" /></a></div>
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Inside the home, we have a very open floor plan downstairs. You walk in through the entry hall and Hank's office is immediately on the right. Then it opens up into the kitchen/dining/living room space. I LOVE that I can see everything from my kitchen island. In our old house, the kitchen sink and counters faced away from the living room, so I always felt like my back was to all the action. Now I can see everything that's happening when I'm cooking or working on cookies.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI1jZGCGB8CLfBmyw4Shp8ZKGMD92Eylb_kcNOd1zHcfpJCYYn4x0azbeyQYlfqcTWY03tS41dWz1j-EqkanKfzDvhtmvXs4nIbF7UhHI4-WCaMQkgYLu8Pu1t930rRh-Vs9Rh57v4AE/s1600/Entry+Hall+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Entry hall design" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI1jZGCGB8CLfBmyw4Shp8ZKGMD92Eylb_kcNOd1zHcfpJCYYn4x0azbeyQYlfqcTWY03tS41dWz1j-EqkanKfzDvhtmvXs4nIbF7UhHI4-WCaMQkgYLu8Pu1t930rRh-Vs9Rh57v4AE/s1600/Entry+Hall+front.jpg" title="Entry hall design" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entry hall- I'm so glad I was able to use this piece of furniture that used to be in my grandparent's entry.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SMqPhmQYCCVFdx10Ja096-5VYRrASsL3r-glFzmbUKJjICy9vMX34O-OzNnOwefAF_3AGdvdw9BtbPCfNS6yE14cleXDHU4T-ZIsVlqTGzUDKvS7L3oFHsFls5xsZ9V4NOHwpkATPyM/s1600/Entry+Hall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Entry hall design" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SMqPhmQYCCVFdx10Ja096-5VYRrASsL3r-glFzmbUKJjICy9vMX34O-OzNnOwefAF_3AGdvdw9BtbPCfNS6yE14cleXDHU4T-ZIsVlqTGzUDKvS7L3oFHsFls5xsZ9V4NOHwpkATPyM/s1600/Entry+Hall.jpg" title="Entry hall design" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entry hall, with artwork and lamp from <i><a href="http://www.backhomeliving.com/" target="_blank">Back Home</a></i> in Austin.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXmDP0gOWx5E0OJoHZAB6QvN4uMoPhxL9IiPtaHQwqnCoWWdHtAqEqvsBurPlWt2xaAW9ORetJMEdq0P2pj5itMBdw4wUlrlxAK7kV4XGZTgQb8Ku21Zjn47mYsybW4fhY1f9MPuLKj0/s1600/Hank%2527s+Office.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXmDP0gOWx5E0OJoHZAB6QvN4uMoPhxL9IiPtaHQwqnCoWWdHtAqEqvsBurPlWt2xaAW9ORetJMEdq0P2pj5itMBdw4wUlrlxAK7kV4XGZTgQb8Ku21Zjn47mYsybW4fhY1f9MPuLKj0/s1600/Hank%2527s+Office.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hank's office- still in need of a large piece of art for the back wall.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgA1oqiSwjJ-MVcpfnAPMNt9xb-Cyb6jEWxNq2iSuAqCm7JP4UEth31NOjFlrz3IGBDnYIsTpDRfFOOq2-RxVW8pP_SNh96D6LOJs2h8l-3b_s3jhPJP6eAaXU7G2ZzNpNXBrSfUPkl8/s1600/Kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Open kitchen design" border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgA1oqiSwjJ-MVcpfnAPMNt9xb-Cyb6jEWxNq2iSuAqCm7JP4UEth31NOjFlrz3IGBDnYIsTpDRfFOOq2-RxVW8pP_SNh96D6LOJs2h8l-3b_s3jhPJP6eAaXU7G2ZzNpNXBrSfUPkl8/s1600/Kitchen.jpg" title="Open kitchen design" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new kitchen- complete with a wine fridge that was pretty much what sold us on the house. ;)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrVLadMvz3bHrg29dxCXXpkfn146Buoz0Twd9_Q8u5OfKgzd-cum3p4S29jyFIZthrjOj9SorAfU0-82oYixTGvmhHyJ-Su6Qxz0Ril805Hj0r0e1fu0gCAvRVWuWfOU4Ux7NihvUftU/s1600/Kitchen+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrVLadMvz3bHrg29dxCXXpkfn146Buoz0Twd9_Q8u5OfKgzd-cum3p4S29jyFIZthrjOj9SorAfU0-82oYixTGvmhHyJ-Su6Qxz0Ril805Hj0r0e1fu0gCAvRVWuWfOU4Ux7NihvUftU/s1600/Kitchen+View.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the kitchen sink.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxuxy5DMyTaRj2X5HDoFlDDuuQR9sgLlIetagaCP4gcxe7kOUFE5qSfiCj__M82qqtyS4O7mzQdjTgDwpv99ggO5f2CJVPX03uLbe3FD424CPSmY8xCbSnKy3oGm0z98QQhXd9JlGo5Y/s1600/Living+Room+wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Living Room Design" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxuxy5DMyTaRj2X5HDoFlDDuuQR9sgLlIetagaCP4gcxe7kOUFE5qSfiCj__M82qqtyS4O7mzQdjTgDwpv99ggO5f2CJVPX03uLbe3FD424CPSmY8xCbSnKy3oGm0z98QQhXd9JlGo5Y/s1600/Living+Room+wall.jpg" title="Living Room Design" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tall walls mean tall lamps, and I adore this pair of blue glass ones. </td></tr>
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Our furniture worked out great in the new floor plan, but there were definitely some things we needed. Luckily my favorite home furnishing store, <i><a href="http://www.backhomeliving.com/" target="_blank">Back Home Living</a></i>, was having an anniversary sale in May and I got some great deals on some bigger ticket items. I purchased the mirrored console, the wood bead chandelier, a pair of lamps and a set of chests for our bedroom (which are in transit right now). Seriously- if you live anywhere near Austin, this is the store to shop at. The owner and staff are so nice and helpful, and it's a great source for inspiration as well. I try my best to mix quality pieces with less expensive decorative items found at stores like Home Goods, World Market or online retailers like Wayfair and Joss & Main (where I got this awesome <i><a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/Cheyanne-Serving-Cart-HOHN6326.html" target="_blank">bar cart</a></i>). </div>
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Our bedroom is still a work in progress. The plan is to replace the carpet with the same wood floor as the rest of the downstairs. I also need to find a dresser, but we're in no hurry for that. Hopefully the new chests will get here soon- the wall is wider than our house and we needed something more substantial next to the bed. Speaking of beds....since we left our headboard screwed into the wall at the old house, we needed a new one. I found this wonderful <i><a href="https://www.bassettfurniture.com/Palisades-Upholstered-Panel-Bed-Bassett-Home-Furnishings-DZ42585.asp" target="_blank">metal and upholstered bed</a></i> (on sale, of course) at Bassett Furniture. Their white glove delivery service was amazing and we have been so happy with this purchase!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Bdq2xYgo97N4iyLX-9CscM0eBqlIyavhuomyM8w3B5ruGzFgjJxtW33zmy0SOeaMXyF1KVHIrt1cYsr2qC0VezaDs8SyZjmfL_t76ZHemzpPkEZ3YKUq-QDUSpXrBXSSvoLuZ27wR5Q/s1600/Bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Master Bedroom Design" border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Bdq2xYgo97N4iyLX-9CscM0eBqlIyavhuomyM8w3B5ruGzFgjJxtW33zmy0SOeaMXyF1KVHIrt1cYsr2qC0VezaDs8SyZjmfL_t76ZHemzpPkEZ3YKUq-QDUSpXrBXSSvoLuZ27wR5Q/s1600/Bedroom.jpg" title="Master Bedroom Design" /></a></div>
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The back of the house is another area that is definitely going to need our attention at some point. The original owners of the new house decided shortly after building and finishing this one that they were going to need more space to accommodate in-laws. So they left the backyard as-is, which is basically just one large rectangle of grass. We're doing our best to keep it alive for now, but hope to add a tree or two, and some privacy landscaping along the back fence. Our back porch, however, is another favorite spot of ours. It's covered (we added a fan right after moving in), and it's a lovely place to sit outside and enjoy a cold drink or a meal with friends. Hank got a <i><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Weber-Original-Kettle-Premium-22-in-Charcoal-Grill-in-Copper-14402001/205504091" target="_blank">Weber Grill</a></i> and has loved cooking on that too. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoa0xbxx3uiiNnZGThaucNYyLS2BqKmUy_pokWeBtogH7DFQ1B4WrqcCY-RdD5uZqixTw_Hmy6ErNPz5w6Gqpw7I57Pau2bHMhu5zC8gmmW5r4XUwmq9tdspjSxEqG-XKJUwV-VpH-zU/s1600/Backyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Covered back porch" border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoa0xbxx3uiiNnZGThaucNYyLS2BqKmUy_pokWeBtogH7DFQ1B4WrqcCY-RdD5uZqixTw_Hmy6ErNPz5w6Gqpw7I57Pau2bHMhu5zC8gmmW5r4XUwmq9tdspjSxEqG-XKJUwV-VpH-zU/s1600/Backyard.jpg" title="Covered back porch" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the back porch. Brees most certainly has enjoyed her big backyard!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zTwA8pvaOqhkGNopkBeZwecDxh7RLRGX2_fbVmFiEcR9uV6LfVqYSPlIOx3OCpAKNmSVHwgesSvLqSVs4uK9ACRBEYSofOVlVjcI9ItqcZwMoQoKEnBwKgtmsRAiPUdLJ2Nz2hJH_Qo/s1600/Porch+chairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Back porch lounging" border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zTwA8pvaOqhkGNopkBeZwecDxh7RLRGX2_fbVmFiEcR9uV6LfVqYSPlIOx3OCpAKNmSVHwgesSvLqSVs4uK9ACRBEYSofOVlVjcI9ItqcZwMoQoKEnBwKgtmsRAiPUdLJ2Nz2hJH_Qo/s1600/Porch+chairs.jpg" title="Back porch lounging" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chairs, pillows, and table all from World Market. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhuCZF5UdpZ9qhiikX5jLa6_aWOuq6Y2m7o1_2Cq1s3gDHF7Jqmq4GXSwkvYJRdJPryXKfOK-EfiN7UHQpA1lAFBzpdJZ82Z65FIeMceehSsgLo8o9w4wO874iDuKVo00356FqLEkxyiA/s1600/Porch+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Back porch dining table" border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhuCZF5UdpZ9qhiikX5jLa6_aWOuq6Y2m7o1_2Cq1s3gDHF7Jqmq4GXSwkvYJRdJPryXKfOK-EfiN7UHQpA1lAFBzpdJZ82Z65FIeMceehSsgLo8o9w4wO874iDuKVo00356FqLEkxyiA/s1600/Porch+table.jpg" title="Back porch dining table" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picnic table, chairs and rug all from World Market. </td></tr>
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Overall we're absolutely thrilled with our new house. It's been fun to entertain, and we're enjoying meeting and getting to know our new neighbors. The animals are having a blast too- especially the cats who spend their afternoons sunbathing on the stair case. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijtUOclTcXnEFNgxKOodWZA6fOwurBBX1O5kC6aexfcr8YD5voITSV-C2LQEC_kYAQ5tWhHSyiPtLfuZVxoPqJodxVi2p1we3WbK8QahGoEDEelrpeWsAvj8LuU5X8lU97l_5RpO3v3g/s1600/Cats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cats" border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="670" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijtUOclTcXnEFNgxKOodWZA6fOwurBBX1O5kC6aexfcr8YD5voITSV-C2LQEC_kYAQ5tWhHSyiPtLfuZVxoPqJodxVi2p1we3WbK8QahGoEDEelrpeWsAvj8LuU5X8lU97l_5RpO3v3g/s1600/Cats.jpg" title="Cats" /></a></div>
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Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-71322828705933699822017-02-01T11:41:00.001-06:002017-05-15T12:43:01.488-05:00Before and AfterIf you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, then you know by now that we put our house on the market last week. It was a crazy few days that resulted in three great offers and a contract with an amazing family who loves our home as much as we do. Assuming all goes well, our option period ends on Friday and we close sometime between Feb. 23-Mar. 3. I'll tell the story of why we decided to sell in another post. For now, I thought it would be fun to take a walk down memory lane, and look at some true before and after pics of all our hard work over the last three years. Our realtor had professional pictures taken of our home, and I'm so glad I'll have them to remember it by.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKC993LH5yAkBREhtbYzTUQj2JRlBeGyl-nA8lwlOfZVKqH-BpJAv7Th5RIMpf3wD-i4yCEYS6jUri8N9pu5CANGQLJ3po0kDv-g2W8tH_nWGBtZu7NUQOJGk0hQPOCx91eL7Lpx7kOk/s1600/Canyon+Glen-+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKC993LH5yAkBREhtbYzTUQj2JRlBeGyl-nA8lwlOfZVKqH-BpJAv7Th5RIMpf3wD-i4yCEYS6jUri8N9pu5CANGQLJ3po0kDv-g2W8tH_nWGBtZu7NUQOJGk0hQPOCx91eL7Lpx7kOk/s1600/Canyon+Glen-+Front.jpg" title="Canyon Glen Circle" /></a></div>
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The "before" pictures come from when Hank listed the home a few years before I came into the picture, so the furniture and decor was pretty different than after I moved in. However, the "after" pictures are definitely a true snapshot of how our design aesthetics married over time. It has been so fun defining our style together over the years, and I can't wait to see what we come up with in our new home!<br />
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First up- the kitchen. This was by far our biggest remodel. Hank did the demo, lighting, new cabinets and paint. We hired professionals to install the pecan herringbone wood floor and the countertops. The light and bright feeling has served me well over the years. I have loved hosting cookie classes in this kitchen, and being supervised by all our animals when I'm cooking dinner. The idea of removing the island initially had me a little worried, but I haven't regretted it for a single day since.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8WGgBUrUpFKAf_ihPG3Sgv3GfSIdI_AXmdYK0EcPlR5dcWgM42xfhAwWJuWrxp4im_zM5xowVrCHAKI1f2kMjvcSqxU7Mxlzzuyrm_R2Y6t1kR1n31-AUY-qsoF3LKITQtl4VF-grfEY/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Open and airy kitchen remodel" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8WGgBUrUpFKAf_ihPG3Sgv3GfSIdI_AXmdYK0EcPlR5dcWgM42xfhAwWJuWrxp4im_zM5xowVrCHAKI1f2kMjvcSqxU7Mxlzzuyrm_R2Y6t1kR1n31-AUY-qsoF3LKITQtl4VF-grfEY/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Kitchen.jpg" title="Open and airy kitchen remodel" /></a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciA2RzdBTgaTawiL5mknJGehqzl6-UVKgPflT4HzC3yGrMIJ-x4LXHprudjzBJZHchdtoZMppVDKjQPngc5Hgbt7QuhMrnrAhHsM5sX2U3Ul0Xss0iauUmjQ5Btyi4J_sEuvY7rsY2hM/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Breakfast+Nook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Updated breakfast nook" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciA2RzdBTgaTawiL5mknJGehqzl6-UVKgPflT4HzC3yGrMIJ-x4LXHprudjzBJZHchdtoZMppVDKjQPngc5Hgbt7QuhMrnrAhHsM5sX2U3Ul0Xss0iauUmjQ5Btyi4J_sEuvY7rsY2hM/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Breakfast+Nook.jpg" title="Updated breakfast nook" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast Nook</td></tr>
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Next is our dining/living area. Obviously a fresh coat of paint (Gray Owl by Benjamin Moore), updated lighting and new furniture drastically brightened up the area. The biggest change in this space though is our custom shiplap feature wall, with a beautiful new built in and updated fireplace. While we dreamed up the look for this, we hired a professional to complete it for us. This was way beyond our skill set, and I'm so glad we didn't try to attempt it ourselves. This is really the first thing you see when you walk in the door, and it was worth the investment to make it the highlight of the room, and not the eyesore it was for so long.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxmcqwaRmeG-kStFVdOLhu4HYR_NkNE_6a6aL-C4klssEAue4COQLN5JKUeEaJRfBkUhCC07PV4w0u_buYTZpgqzjzxr9LgpfnFIape3eFCnZfLwcVbeMsSfQI8F6B5UmOdtNev8rmlM/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Living+Room+Wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="Custom Shiplap Wall" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxmcqwaRmeG-kStFVdOLhu4HYR_NkNE_6a6aL-C4klssEAue4COQLN5JKUeEaJRfBkUhCC07PV4w0u_buYTZpgqzjzxr9LgpfnFIape3eFCnZfLwcVbeMsSfQI8F6B5UmOdtNev8rmlM/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Living+Room+Wall.jpg" title="Custom Shiplap Wall" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9Cu5Td6A9UGu4XSBy_PPlUx3jIkGPc3KqLihknZYI2a07RCdNtHG75VMTL5xsoSbREKmD3xj2kiCRqrVHixWpir3imphFS0jmiBDonylSBACbdWh7qqCtg5Mi8xp-8dVjocPiECqk34/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Living-Dining.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Living Room Makeover" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9Cu5Td6A9UGu4XSBy_PPlUx3jIkGPc3KqLihknZYI2a07RCdNtHG75VMTL5xsoSbREKmD3xj2kiCRqrVHixWpir3imphFS0jmiBDonylSBACbdWh7qqCtg5Mi8xp-8dVjocPiECqk34/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Living-Dining.jpg" title="Living Room Makeover" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rGv8932r9UbPJM-OssHzHSDXhXZc3YXfRCdpFZQbyuwy0pAfWO7cZ6z40JTNB3cJuUMXTnM4uEGqvT9EQ-CQUAFiQ42kB9JOjKw2-oYxKKbnYLpg6Pnnwr50c3bZPEjYrjqCIBesSm0/s1600/Canyon+Glen-+Shiplap+Wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Shiplap Wall" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rGv8932r9UbPJM-OssHzHSDXhXZc3YXfRCdpFZQbyuwy0pAfWO7cZ6z40JTNB3cJuUMXTnM4uEGqvT9EQ-CQUAFiQ42kB9JOjKw2-oYxKKbnYLpg6Pnnwr50c3bZPEjYrjqCIBesSm0/s1600/Canyon+Glen-+Shiplap+Wall.jpg" title="Shiplap Wall" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's a better view of our pride and joy- our shiplap wall.</td></tr>
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Our master bedroom and bath also got makeovers. We used the same flooring in our master, and updated paint and furniture. Our master bath only went through phase 1 of its remodel. We painted the vanity and room, paneled the vanity wall, added hardware, and updated the mirrors and lighting. We had planned on new tile and vanity, but decided not to follow through when we put it on the market. We just didn't think we'd get our money out of it, and decided to let the next homeowner make that decision.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1BIJZPqsEfvJKM4ejtI9od2EjkiuouQeTSld1ZIniIRCQqeQf0ndXxE-rcrVhivEpGLicoUsV0CAAAcS28Vl2pgQtKqHlo5Y0TDhPLdh6jLm9KG_h0hWv5K64w1Bgy6E6IBdh-x7HFc/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Master.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Master Bedroom Makeover" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1BIJZPqsEfvJKM4ejtI9od2EjkiuouQeTSld1ZIniIRCQqeQf0ndXxE-rcrVhivEpGLicoUsV0CAAAcS28Vl2pgQtKqHlo5Y0TDhPLdh6jLm9KG_h0hWv5K64w1Bgy6E6IBdh-x7HFc/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Master.jpg" title="Master Bedroom Makeover" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX5KuV0R-DAewpQPLLNWOcYvXg8CHfAZEbNRYk_2HUY688Usnu-EROkvYzodLwC4zsqnR8UyLGgkoTcvIr4TKFneCWa9wZJlrPUVsRipn9q1DkJhFDRr9OOJOejk_uPWtHiN5bNASBUog/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Master+Bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Master Bath Makeover" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX5KuV0R-DAewpQPLLNWOcYvXg8CHfAZEbNRYk_2HUY688Usnu-EROkvYzodLwC4zsqnR8UyLGgkoTcvIr4TKFneCWa9wZJlrPUVsRipn9q1DkJhFDRr9OOJOejk_uPWtHiN5bNASBUog/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Master+Bath.jpg" title="Master Bath Makeover" /></a></div>
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Both of our secondary bedrooms and guest bath were updated as well. We swapped the original order of the rooms- the old office became a pretty guest room. The old guest room became a beautiful office thanks to an awesome craigslist find of Ikea bookcases for $100. Hank framed them into built-ins and made the beautiful desk to go in between. We also did wood flooring in both rooms so that there would be no more carpet in our house. (With 4 animals, carpet is a bad bad thing.) I didn't have a great before picture of the guest bath (trust me when I say it was very, very ugly.) But there is a nice picture of the finished product. New listing, mirror and vanity, along with a white textured shower curtain for the finishing touch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdLoIE8jocMP3MsraB8YuRD3v8wRdjLow7ywUxNfjd26dfB5jGDjTgAg81j7CKau8Yhfb-WIh5rupcxDv7tcscy9kkw9pAg3wmtjRAK9z_SIWDNzaffZBcNUsl6d2IyzvAJ4pgEt-Fkc/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Guest+Bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Guest room" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdLoIE8jocMP3MsraB8YuRD3v8wRdjLow7ywUxNfjd26dfB5jGDjTgAg81j7CKau8Yhfb-WIh5rupcxDv7tcscy9kkw9pAg3wmtjRAK9z_SIWDNzaffZBcNUsl6d2IyzvAJ4pgEt-Fkc/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Guest+Bedroom.jpg" title="Guest room" /></a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAF9-YxTONFoHMGQ-RF80JQbhXEP8miycbcr7ef3zv0zHB40nGlaOaFFuHtPBX4j5Mxeowr6e7VnHm20rT7cE7PLvj-G3HYFys_wxMUHB3RKb66m5i031Yo9SQDSH_gIzQ7-1qNynV0o/s1600/Canyon+Glen-+Office.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Home Office" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAF9-YxTONFoHMGQ-RF80JQbhXEP8miycbcr7ef3zv0zHB40nGlaOaFFuHtPBX4j5Mxeowr6e7VnHm20rT7cE7PLvj-G3HYFys_wxMUHB3RKb66m5i031Yo9SQDSH_gIzQ7-1qNynV0o/s1600/Canyon+Glen-+Office.jpg" title="Home Office" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our "his and her" home office</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yJcmuDTR8rXYgLEqKNiNjFXIkwnoSkqLnP7oP-ECvL9L-qM32bnu2E_BE2U-MUM0jL_ESc3IbJNl_D9BUEJ9xQv5VPAhX_2NG61hxjk84hHuT0qU08KV8JkRmPy67W5Rbi1dPJj7EUw/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Guest+Bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Guest Bath Remodel" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yJcmuDTR8rXYgLEqKNiNjFXIkwnoSkqLnP7oP-ECvL9L-qM32bnu2E_BE2U-MUM0jL_ESc3IbJNl_D9BUEJ9xQv5VPAhX_2NG61hxjk84hHuT0qU08KV8JkRmPy67W5Rbi1dPJj7EUw/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Guest+Bath.jpg" title="Guest Bath Remodel" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guest Bath</td></tr>
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One other touch (that took way longer than we ever imagined) was replacing all of the door trim and baseboards with 6" white trim to give it a more updated (and cottage-y look). Hank installed the trim while I did most of the caulk and paint. We never thought we'd finish, but the final result is so much prettier than how it was. Let's face it- 18 year old trim can look pretty dingy. The Simply White color by Benjamin Moore really stands out against the walls.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJC244LTD7iXgfEvcWbPupI8yfJ-peqWtn7VRFVhVKYN14gN1f2s2LhDoJTkhnWuWubdx-R1EOvu9yk_Fb5r0CFztnJ6HJEsZS7EEPhAlcyXOB264A3Z7GH0QSEeMJtznKeJa_OcoFxB0/s1600/Canyon+Glen+door+trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Craftsman door trim" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJC244LTD7iXgfEvcWbPupI8yfJ-peqWtn7VRFVhVKYN14gN1f2s2LhDoJTkhnWuWubdx-R1EOvu9yk_Fb5r0CFztnJ6HJEsZS7EEPhAlcyXOB264A3Z7GH0QSEeMJtznKeJa_OcoFxB0/s1600/Canyon+Glen+door+trim.jpg" title="Craftsman door trim" /></a></div>
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Our backyard saw just a few changes. We added a rock retaining wall to help with drainage, and planted a big tree at the top of the yard to help with shade over the years. Hank built the deck off the back door, and we planted a small garden where there used to be a cramped magnolia tree. We also replaced the fence last year and stained it a neat gray color to go better with the house.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHfWQCX_wN8yDQwUpRmuPsRbXOr3p8igLmD35oJIBnTpFvud5xq_lqjtaIdgYOkw04FQTDd57sbwcxIeKCZLTVzhZ6jDvCcYnPmaTpvhipO7YWfxQ0dnACTPG8V5D63vLYn_6v_fb7-I/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Backyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHfWQCX_wN8yDQwUpRmuPsRbXOr3p8igLmD35oJIBnTpFvud5xq_lqjtaIdgYOkw04FQTDd57sbwcxIeKCZLTVzhZ6jDvCcYnPmaTpvhipO7YWfxQ0dnACTPG8V5D63vLYn_6v_fb7-I/s1600/Canyon+Glen+Backyard.jpg" title="Backyard" /></a></div>
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We love looking back at all of the progress we made on this house. (You can view the full tour <a href="http://tours.ridge.photography/public/vtour/display/685518?a=1" target="_blank"><b><i>here</i></b></a>) A lot of blood, sweat and tears went into it. While we're sad to be saying goodbye, we're thrilled about new adventures in our first home purchased together. Stay tuned for what's to come. We have two closings and two moves to get there, but we can't wait to settle into our next home!Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-19730052212290530332017-01-16T10:00:00.003-06:002017-01-16T10:00:48.635-06:00On Love and LossHello old friends! It's been quite awhile since I last posted, and even longer since I likely posted anything meaningful. 2016 overall was a pretty great year for us, minus some pretty devastating news that we received last April. Hank's mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 Adenocarcinoma (lung cancer) and spent the better part of the year fighting it. When first diagnosed, the doctors weren't sure exactly how long she would have, but we knew she was on borrowed time. Unfortunately it was a type of cancer that couldn't be beat and we said goodbye to her on Friday, January 6th.<br />
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Hank and I had just been up to Oklahoma the week before to visit, and I'm so grateful that I will forever have that last memory of playing a card game around the kitchen island, laughing and having a good time. Even though she was tired and struggling with her breathing, she made every effort to enjoy the visit. We did not know at the time just how bad she was, but I think in a way she did.<br />
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She went to the hospital a few days after we left, and then we got the call that a cat scan showed the cancer had spread to her good lung, and there was nothing left to do about it. Again- no one knew how long she had. But we got the call late Wednesday that it didn't look good, and Hank left for Oklahoma early the next morning. She Facetimed us around 4:30 am wanting to tell us that she loved us. I wasn't sure that Hank would make it in time, but he did.<br />
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Needless to say, last week was a really tough week. We're in our early 40s, an age where we shouldn't have to be saying goodbye to parents just yet. I'm not sure its even really sunk in that she's gone. There was so much to do last week- making arrangements, attending services, looking after Hank's dad. I think it's going to take awhile to process it all.<br />
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Hank's mom was a gem. As far as mother-in-laws go, she really was the best!! She called me sugar, never meddled in our business, and made me feel like she loved me as her very own daughter. She raised an amazing son, and for that I will forever be in her debt.<br />
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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/AVvXsEg8UQFU016BlTSjQTZIJhcRdg03NV5kYZ3vHcHbLuA2mdq3x0FT9rh0G552Q-QgyBXD5ei2ONP7_A2ymEwcapaZTjxskPU5gIWTZa_Lv_vYFod_mMXQSevwKoL3IXYAsKKbgFxtM-cyuBA/s1600/Rena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8UQFU016BlTSjQTZIJhcRdg03NV5kYZ3vHcHbLuA2mdq3x0FT9rh0G552Q-QgyBXD5ei2ONP7_A2ymEwcapaZTjxskPU5gIWTZa_Lv_vYFod_mMXQSevwKoL3IXYAsKKbgFxtM-cyuBA/s1600/Rena.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was from a surprise visit last fall, taken around the kitchen island where we spent so much of our time!</td></tr>
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<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-79125748132364309692016-04-12T16:34:00.000-05:002016-04-12T16:34:21.430-05:00March MadnessMarch was one for the books! Work travel took me to some really great places, and I had the opportunity to combine work with a little bit of fun. In between meetings in LA and San Jose, I had a full day to myself. I rented a car and toured Carmel and Monterey. There was so much to see in so little time, but I think I hit the highlights. I stopped at the <b><i><a href="http://www.carmelmission.org/museum/" target="_blank">Carmel Mission</a></i></b> museum, walked around the shops downtown, and then drove along <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.lovetoeatandtravel.com/site/sfbay/carmel/Fun/walk.htm" target="_blank">Scenic Road</a>. </i>I could have done that twice! With the ocean on the right side, and the most amazing homes on the left, I really needed two trips down the street to see it all. After I was done in Carmel, I took the <b><i><a href="http://www.seemonterey.com/regions/pebble-beach/17-mile-drive/" target="_blank">17-Mile Drive</a></i></b> to Monterey, stopping at Pebble Beach and the <b><i><a href="http://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-postcards-lone-cypress-20130519-dto-htmlstory.html" target="_blank">Lone Cypress</a></i></b>. Again- amazing homes and breathtaking views. If I was able to do it all over again, I would skip Monterey (too touristy) and stay in Carmel. Better food and sight seeing by far!! Hank and I will definitely be going back for a romantic weekend.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZkVUtN4TY6D437SIvVXNAfdkYttwAqOgU-Q5f2SsHV-4zaNXjK8iUHuU1JeTNvmHZosofPMDo3qa5lwRbWpDwgvT4QpJYCxGdX62ZP_5tcwB2-25MW3ebkomNVACO1gu5O6B2goH7gt0/s1600/Carmel+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Carmel Sight-Seeing" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZkVUtN4TY6D437SIvVXNAfdkYttwAqOgU-Q5f2SsHV-4zaNXjK8iUHuU1JeTNvmHZosofPMDo3qa5lwRbWpDwgvT4QpJYCxGdX62ZP_5tcwB2-25MW3ebkomNVACO1gu5O6B2goH7gt0/s1600/Carmel+Collage.jpg" title="Carmel Sight-Seeing" /></a></div>
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While in LA, the keynote speaker at my work event was none other than <b><i><a href="http://www.biography.com/people/steve-wozniak-9537334" target="_blank">Steve Wozniak</a></i></b>, co-founder of Apple. Getting to hear him speak was really special. He was so engaging and passionate about education- it was really motivating to hear his thoughts. We chatted briefly, and then he signed the back of my iPhone. Bucket list- check!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV7mgJcDWJicFUNrnuSTppTW5FXnTZ9x9ZmYJbJx3e9Zfmio2_pcrZreXFnPkkhoFU855ihxLpXrfY8xZjNX8nFUg7bUh1vsJbrV_ZG1HlW2bX5hPGXzQnHpqIyxsmtJtmDp9lb8pC38/s1600/Woz+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Steve Wozniak Meeting" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV7mgJcDWJicFUNrnuSTppTW5FXnTZ9x9ZmYJbJx3e9Zfmio2_pcrZreXFnPkkhoFU855ihxLpXrfY8xZjNX8nFUg7bUh1vsJbrV_ZG1HlW2bX5hPGXzQnHpqIyxsmtJtmDp9lb8pC38/s1600/Woz+Collage.jpg" title="Steve Wozniak" /></a></div>
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I got to go home for a week before heading back to California- this time to Palm Springs (you'll hear no complaints from me). I had never been before and was excited to see a new place. The weather was absolutely perfect, but I didn't have a ton of time outside of the work event to enjoy it. I did receive an invitation to the <b><i><a href="http://www.bnpparibasopen.com/" target="_blank">Indian Wells</a></i></b> tennis tournament, and watched an exciting match with John Isner, and saw the tail end Serena Williams playing. I've never seen a pro tennis tournament before, and really enjoyed it. I also got to ride the aerial tramway to the top of Mt. San Jacinto. I'm not normally one to be scared of heights, but this was almost a little too thrilling for me. The view from the top was totally worth the trip up though.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkPQBzyQm72SySP3aqnuH22r1COSNd3YzAT7d-ccgF6avSJG8yimDtKVDfmW7xiBtghkvFxm3H2YEBESsuryKLqfo_a4_DKMbv7TSyfoRsZ37b7MA2zuF7mxslnbdP7JLwWKoYAmi1Bk/s1600/PS+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Palm Springs" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkPQBzyQm72SySP3aqnuH22r1COSNd3YzAT7d-ccgF6avSJG8yimDtKVDfmW7xiBtghkvFxm3H2YEBESsuryKLqfo_a4_DKMbv7TSyfoRsZ37b7MA2zuF7mxslnbdP7JLwWKoYAmi1Bk/s1600/PS+Collage.jpg" title="Palm Springs" /></a></div>
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Lest you think that my work travel is ALL glamorous...I will share this funny Air BnB experience. Our new marketing guy (who is all of 24 years old) booked my stay in PS. All of the hotels were sold out due to the conference and tennis tournament, so we turned to Air BnB. <b><i><a href="http://www.theamado.com/" target="_blank">This</a></i></b> is where I *thought* I was staying:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6vXKV5vaW6MvgcmU2GI3wrjYaiIUEXdXKmGD9iJyIVff3DjReXesW4ITIVTIidHWkCQoJX_qlAtrwlB0Fo5gIs1OrN1jr2qu-dw9WWtbtYgVT-ZFGIP-3IIVj6LcKFroV0xjtqa8YYk/s1600/amado.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: The Amado" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6vXKV5vaW6MvgcmU2GI3wrjYaiIUEXdXKmGD9iJyIVff3DjReXesW4ITIVTIidHWkCQoJX_qlAtrwlB0Fo5gIs1OrN1jr2qu-dw9WWtbtYgVT-ZFGIP-3IIVj6LcKFroV0xjtqa8YYk/s1600/amado.jpg" title="The Amado" /></a></div>
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And this is where I somehow ended up. An apartment with a hair salon in the dining area. Too funny! Not sure how the reservation got mixed up, but I survived and made the best of it. (I'll also be booking my own reservations from now on.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWC_ew-i9UBUQ8xyRpqondLt5uEfCOfPooVGb9secbAhmQZSm76BePI3xkxu-30qS3I9iZl2WIXDEV0IQ4TKtCuH6om7U0LYiJuV8LAXSsE_IEKj5rljlj_9HhHOf9gS3k8jqOYXzdXAQ/s1600/hair+salon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Air Bnb Hair Salon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWC_ew-i9UBUQ8xyRpqondLt5uEfCOfPooVGb9secbAhmQZSm76BePI3xkxu-30qS3I9iZl2WIXDEV0IQ4TKtCuH6om7U0LYiJuV8LAXSsE_IEKj5rljlj_9HhHOf9gS3k8jqOYXzdXAQ/s1600/hair+salon.jpg" title="Air BnB hair salon" /></a></div>
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With work travel done for the month, it was time to have some fun in Austin. One of our running friends invited us to the <b><i><a href="http://www.worldgolfchampionships.com/dell-match-play.html" target="_blank">Dell Match Play</a></i></b>, with access to a hospitality suite for the day (free food and drinks FTW!). The event was held at the Austin Country Club, where the course is right on the lake. The views are beautiful, the weather was awesome, and it was such a fun way to play hooky from work for the day. It was the inaugural year for the event, and it went so well that they will be coming back for at least the next 3 years. I consider it a can't miss if you have the opportunity to go. We got to see Jordan Spieth up close, and also had Phil Mickelson and Rory McIlroy (hello, muscles!) sightings.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQUPzkHjxP4rrYimmEFj2QtoF7Ri3aBpI2A4u1CWJhDvOWnnIwEQDhFIfGj8UFM4y8A0SisgBr0nOeL4KOtpSLo079FUFSuwm9yLeKOSWzE7SsO1mPgB_mnBsMgfo8x_hMRURwev-SbA/s1600/Dell+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Dell Match Play" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQUPzkHjxP4rrYimmEFj2QtoF7Ri3aBpI2A4u1CWJhDvOWnnIwEQDhFIfGj8UFM4y8A0SisgBr0nOeL4KOtpSLo079FUFSuwm9yLeKOSWzE7SsO1mPgB_mnBsMgfo8x_hMRURwev-SbA/s1600/Dell+Collage.jpg" title="Dell Match Play" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jordan Spieth in the middle.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt__pEwWvy-NFiSouzdJo6mxfeBbKGs4okVJJvQNWD_XVWysyKniTL4dyXli0Bcma5hGPYZRd6vOPtDmvtCZmeBlNgdH4lRccN7jkDVju70sYN_NdAmQ97PUYhidTbnxY3RUolM73Nb1w/s1600/15th+hole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: 15th Hole" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt__pEwWvy-NFiSouzdJo6mxfeBbKGs4okVJJvQNWD_XVWysyKniTL4dyXli0Bcma5hGPYZRd6vOPtDmvtCZmeBlNgdH4lRccN7jkDVju70sYN_NdAmQ97PUYhidTbnxY3RUolM73Nb1w/s1600/15th+hole.jpg" title="15th Hole" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was our view of the 15th hole from the hospitality suite.</td></tr>
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Last but not least, we did a little bit of housework as well. Hank transplanted a Magnolia tree to make room for a veggie garden, and so far everything seems to be growing. We planted tomatoes, cucumbers, okra, bell peppers, zucchini squash, red onions and parsley. We have absolutely no idea what we're doing, so I'm just focusing on keeping everything watered and free of bugs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS3Av916HY2TfniRB7oSC_Gf1_fsRa_FRIvtOZNoN5KUIC3nZp4KqVADUa-sN8r_vxFnWh-jziHPuSeIgD-6oUWFnlyWwxddNudYMFAXOn_ewiV_DmlyyZ5PraR0Z1nE9VtjF5SlgWZnE/s1600/Garden+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Veggie Garden" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS3Av916HY2TfniRB7oSC_Gf1_fsRa_FRIvtOZNoN5KUIC3nZp4KqVADUa-sN8r_vxFnWh-jziHPuSeIgD-6oUWFnlyWwxddNudYMFAXOn_ewiV_DmlyyZ5PraR0Z1nE9VtjF5SlgWZnE/s1600/Garden+Collage.jpg" title="Veggie Garden" /></a></div>
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Hank also finished a project that had been bugging him immensely- our unsightly laundry room. In true Holland fashion, we didn't get a good "before" picture that showed the wire shelving. Hank was so excited to rip it down that he totally forgot. He started the project off by installing bead board, but after loving our shiplap in the living room so much, he tore it down and did "cheap" lap instead- just regular plywood ripped down at Home Depot. A lot less expensive, and still the same general look. It's nice to have covered storage now, a fresh coat of paint, and a pretty new light fixture.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlGy28J1F791gqnF2sFio2BLPjfAU2AbrupbJwSVBPuseB2TZdKPRt0ADSXmwIDoWoLTiPSndl8qLXIO9VstbG5AmjELO0LMkyXgTa_hA_KJzNwVXd7BLEGXxiFpvjl-hdoz5bEGOCVw/s1600/Laundry+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Laundry Room Makeover" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlGy28J1F791gqnF2sFio2BLPjfAU2AbrupbJwSVBPuseB2TZdKPRt0ADSXmwIDoWoLTiPSndl8qLXIO9VstbG5AmjELO0LMkyXgTa_hA_KJzNwVXd7BLEGXxiFpvjl-hdoz5bEGOCVw/s1600/Laundry+Collage.jpg" title="Laundry Room Makeover" /></a></div>
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So that recaps a very fun and busy month. April is already off to a great start with several charity events and a weekend in Houston. More posts to come.Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-59990525100364063002016-02-26T14:41:00.000-06:002016-03-03T21:36:44.781-06:00Modern Coastal Living Room MakeoverTest test..... Not sure this thing still works. If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you know our life has been pretty uneventful lately. You'll hear no complaining from me- it's been really nice to have a little less stress in our lives. The new job is going really well (working from home is a dream), the animals are all healthy, and Hank and I are slowly getting back into a regular running routine.<br />
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The biggest news is that our living room makeover (that's been over a year in the making) is finally complete! When I moved into Hank's home, my goal was to get rid of everything brown. We wanted a more "modern coastal" look for the home, and have tried to stay true to that in all our decisions and purchases. Over the years we've made small improvements here and there, doing most of the work ourselves. We've collected some furniture pieces and painted the walls, but knew that it wouldn't all come together until we tackled the main living room wall. After moving the TV from the cabinet to above the fireplace, we were left with a giant hole, and a lot of unsightly cables. After a lot of careful thought, serious Pinterest browsing, and saving- our dream is finally a reality.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyYGK8sQNMnNvuY6I-R3lNEMt81l848Wkqs0Cg51jtdbzU5rYnjymDrPz_yXZ60EjeZ4fZOhBZgiVDq_Stw3MI0Vyfx08_hD1t7cNKc0Eo-Sf9pcfuu-zKQhirjC237Pfl_a535UabMA/s1600/wall+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Living Room Wall Before" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyYGK8sQNMnNvuY6I-R3lNEMt81l848Wkqs0Cg51jtdbzU5rYnjymDrPz_yXZ60EjeZ4fZOhBZgiVDq_Stw3MI0Vyfx08_hD1t7cNKc0Eo-Sf9pcfuu-zKQhirjC237Pfl_a535UabMA/s1600/wall+before.jpg" title="Living Room Wall Before" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Living Room Wall "Before"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWCVLmH6QmzbN_peELCzetvlGXwzLInxq620XU4NusoeE7xrJ7pcHx3yVYwRCJBJDoLybWYtfXawr8O2R9M5Jhl4Z8KkCdP9cwHuBHdPtGj9GVB8UtXo0iIvSQmLscwqOPfUdWucBsVg/s1600/wall+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Living Room Wall After" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWCVLmH6QmzbN_peELCzetvlGXwzLInxq620XU4NusoeE7xrJ7pcHx3yVYwRCJBJDoLybWYtfXawr8O2R9M5Jhl4Z8KkCdP9cwHuBHdPtGj9GVB8UtXo0iIvSQmLscwqOPfUdWucBsVg/s1600/wall+after.jpg" title="Living Room Wall After" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Living Room Wall "After"</td></tr>
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The biggest transformation is the main wall. It was most definitely inspired by our love of <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/shows/fixer-upper" target="_blank"><i>Fixer Upper</i></a>. Hank has a man-crush on Chip, and we love shiplap almost as much as Joanna does. When you walk into our home this wall is definitely a focal point, and it was a really sad first impression. Our DIY skills are slightly above average, but we knew this project would never get done the way we wanted to if we didn't call in professionals. Luckily we knew a contractor who came highly recommended, and I credit him with making our vision become reality. I highly recommend <i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/peglarscustomcarpentry/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Peglars Custom Cabinetry</a></i> if you need any work done in the Austin area. Jesse is the utmost professional and timely person I've ever worked with.<br />
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To round out the modern coastal look, we stuck with neutral fabrics for furniture, and accented it with a bold blue rug from Pottery Barn. For the past year we've had just a couch and a random chair in the living area. Today I found the absolute most perfect coffee table and set of chairs at <i><a href="http://www.backhomeliving.com/" target="_blank">Back Home</a>, </i>a local Austin home decor store. I splurged on a few pieces, and shopped at Home Goods and World Market to find affordable decorative items to fill in the gaps. (Frugal tip- find a used or half-price book store for inexpensive books with pretty spines or covers. It's an easy way to fill in shelf space without spending a fortune.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIATX6erGlaXPB_5ugIAMAe7CGfgG8hf5u1bmpmcVRHlGIxUzXWQjzcD2Y1Oyj_9hRtzEADxQa2kNXkvNqFBQuFlE7hWbk4i4jlXZWqpaTzP2RmP8FI6Ckdvaz0FFl2K2ZiRx_iWpqqI/s1600/Living+Room+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Living Room Before" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIATX6erGlaXPB_5ugIAMAe7CGfgG8hf5u1bmpmcVRHlGIxUzXWQjzcD2Y1Oyj_9hRtzEADxQa2kNXkvNqFBQuFlE7hWbk4i4jlXZWqpaTzP2RmP8FI6Ckdvaz0FFl2K2ZiRx_iWpqqI/s1600/Living+Room+before.jpg" title="Living Room Before" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Living Room "Before"</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMPgtGAphPtiQ5OV_PZsoZwEp3OjW6gyECR22rOICcZX5alGLGqX68nPEZBQattleFOjWeLiBp21i6xbsgCn_EfTp1fyfaKduthZS64JB-RzmJhWBHEIAEvVazch5Ho2GyhWUsh3qdpkY/s1600/living+room+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Living Room After" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMPgtGAphPtiQ5OV_PZsoZwEp3OjW6gyECR22rOICcZX5alGLGqX68nPEZBQattleFOjWeLiBp21i6xbsgCn_EfTp1fyfaKduthZS64JB-RzmJhWBHEIAEvVazch5Ho2GyhWUsh3qdpkY/s1600/living+room+after.jpg" title="Living Room After" /></a></td></tr>
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The coffee table is one of my favorite new pieces. I love the modern touch that it brings to the room. Several of the furniture pieces are wood, so I wanted to balance that out with a piece that wasn't so heavy. Katie the cat seems to love it too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xq6FCR79TUzjYFowj_fvqtYNLjRuffCMOZJeZRL_lEjPHAHPVMR3-2KA-6Eg2gokbNrUZTcUiYZ3Zu2HWhlSpiOcSgvByrws-JYoosmae1Q8T2mWqXURP-5yS6uHZ-fPvfQ5bc68WhY/s1600/coffee+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Gold Molecular Coffee Table" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xq6FCR79TUzjYFowj_fvqtYNLjRuffCMOZJeZRL_lEjPHAHPVMR3-2KA-6Eg2gokbNrUZTcUiYZ3Zu2HWhlSpiOcSgvByrws-JYoosmae1Q8T2mWqXURP-5yS6uHZ-fPvfQ5bc68WhY/s1600/coffee+table.jpg" title="Molecular Coffee Table" /></a></div>
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We're thrilled with the finished product. The room feels light and airy, and is such a calming place to sit and relax. I love the combination of new and old- you can see my grandmother's old desk in the background, and I love that we were able to keep it in the space. Hank even upcycled a piece of live edge wood to make a sofa table (that still needs to be accessorized), using inexpensive <b><i><a href="http://www.hairpinlegs.com/products/hairpin-leg" target="_blank">hairpin legs</a></i></b> he found online and then painted himself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_fpOq3L-fVBKtTb07G8q8aaaVWY1zHt-b6gfgutXKiTurvzMozZ4F_LS1qsOcAfRB5xA3Pk_1f_D2GHHLBcZIeW9HFQ6nulJTIiLNqbNp1S4FjUrftvKkyXS1jPleULhn1ntk0ddh-E/s1600/table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Live edge wood table" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_fpOq3L-fVBKtTb07G8q8aaaVWY1zHt-b6gfgutXKiTurvzMozZ4F_LS1qsOcAfRB5xA3Pk_1f_D2GHHLBcZIeW9HFQ6nulJTIiLNqbNp1S4FjUrftvKkyXS1jPleULhn1ntk0ddh-E/s1600/table.jpg" title="Live edge wood table" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hank's sofa table</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipSDpMxyj_xJ_x0V-J68z15Me1I4gHQVGa0Z7SLSjiofy9vzNYeKXvMrG8DUxV-w5qnUkMtcWEtmjb82Ah_L1wNKIWnim49wG4nq_WwsgFz3RSshVTW0nPDZNWrutNazOcX4-LcJVLA5o/s1600/shelf+styling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Shelf Styling" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipSDpMxyj_xJ_x0V-J68z15Me1I4gHQVGa0Z7SLSjiofy9vzNYeKXvMrG8DUxV-w5qnUkMtcWEtmjb82Ah_L1wNKIWnim49wG4nq_WwsgFz3RSshVTW0nPDZNWrutNazOcX4-LcJVLA5o/s1600/shelf+styling.jpg" title="Shelf Styling" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Accessorized shelves, courtesy of my mom</td></tr>
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Thanks for stopping by! I've got one other home project to share and hopefully I'll be able to get those pictures up soon.Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-31301522369303418872015-12-15T11:06:00.000-06:002015-12-15T11:06:37.614-06:00Philadelphia Marathon 2015If I don't get this post written before Christmas, it's probably never going to happen! If you want the short summary of my marathon experience- it was absolutely incredible! (You can stop reading now and just look at pictures). If you want to read more about how a person who said she was never going to run a marathon (ever), and ended up loving it so much that she wants to run another one....then please continue on.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeGNaorqH6SDbCvgHhvjtQf625QiSFvdBdJJGXqXiXRhf0rCbzDALKT3rORi7K5i0FFPwxMqbTuAvblFaqPS3ag1EgkVBu5qkNBQAXnewmGcmph_-hRSv-ac3O_RgRaisJfXn35RkxHa4/s1600/race+weekend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeGNaorqH6SDbCvgHhvjtQf625QiSFvdBdJJGXqXiXRhf0rCbzDALKT3rORi7K5i0FFPwxMqbTuAvblFaqPS3ag1EgkVBu5qkNBQAXnewmGcmph_-hRSv-ac3O_RgRaisJfXn35RkxHa4/s1600/race+weekend.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></div>
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This is the race recap that I posted on our Gilbert's Gazelles (my training group) forum, with a few extra details.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYlWDjzOTBgWzdzt4bceVYJKSJEVmFx_5mT0O_ZtNLao65Avdntjix23TZzbOpc-v8b2Q3I4eTdmMgkdONr94duZigLnbVI8rBsZ5hKRftvFZeCp7WHV8V5gpep2HbRz1mCis-2SWsMg/s1600/Gazelle-phia+Austin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Gilbert's Gazelles" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYlWDjzOTBgWzdzt4bceVYJKSJEVmFx_5mT0O_ZtNLao65Avdntjix23TZzbOpc-v8b2Q3I4eTdmMgkdONr94duZigLnbVI8rBsZ5hKRftvFZeCp7WHV8V5gpep2HbRz1mCis-2SWsMg/s1600/Gazelle-phia+Austin.jpg" title="Gilbert's Gazelles" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's not official until you have your own t-shirts.</td></tr>
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My story starts almost two years ago, when Hank and I decided we were ready to start a family. In a perfect world, things happen when you want them to, but that wasn't the case for us. During this time I put everything on hold, "just in case". No race plans, no big trips, no nothing! We started fertility treatment, and eventually decided it wasn't for us. For a multitude of reasons we walked away from the idea of starting a family, and made peace with that decision (with the help of a professional counselor). From there I decided that life was way too short to not make plans.<br />
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Over breakfast tacos one Saturday morning, there was discussion over the next destination marathon for Hank's group. We had all traveled to Napa in early 2014 and had an absolute blast, and everyone was ready to do it again. The infamous Wish (local Austin runner and writer) joined us this fateful day, and wouldn't stop talking about what a great course the Philadelphia Marathon had. From there- it all snowballed and I somehow agreed to run my first marathon. Yikes!! Having never been a distance anything...I knew I would have my work cut out for me.<br />
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Fast forward to training season. I faithfully attended every work out. I made so many friends, sweat more than I ever though possible, and slowly watched the miles add up. Each Saturday was a celebration of a distance I had never run before (past 13 miles), and it was exciting to see the progress. As we creeped up into the 18 and 20 mile runs though, I started to have doubts that I could run a full marathon the way that I wanted to (living with a Gazelle = lots of pressure to run fast). Everything hurt and I was never able to finish a run without having to walk. It was too late to do anything about it at this point, and I had to accept that my primary goal for race day would be to just finish.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaZbNhVs242OdHyxqZDPFLqnqrmt0gaZR0mKOpOLrOV7yWoge-yaJEp2gvpcyDWgLGH3fpsQC3hEXVEi5Pq38nY4IUXxiJJ_epKmy8-KWLw_UfUI1RFVoUGem3hb9yOmu7zjPqslcYYk/s1600/Saturday+warm+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaZbNhVs242OdHyxqZDPFLqnqrmt0gaZR0mKOpOLrOV7yWoge-yaJEp2gvpcyDWgLGH3fpsQC3hEXVEi5Pq38nY4IUXxiJJ_epKmy8-KWLw_UfUI1RFVoUGem3hb9yOmu7zjPqslcYYk/s1600/Saturday+warm+up.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saturday morning warm-up run </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdJn95eQIZLCC4MRcynEdITDCygYwdTuMhAx_5htN1Bvjf8Wb0S7ijIXjWxLvLR0m4SxiPduv20LSFaaadKL4SvL3l2EuUBJLuOeKQw4n1Jh0sso4e7Ch6X4c1MEHCvi23gSSFbdHIO8/s1600/pancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chocolate Chip Banana Pancakes" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdJn95eQIZLCC4MRcynEdITDCygYwdTuMhAx_5htN1Bvjf8Wb0S7ijIXjWxLvLR0m4SxiPduv20LSFaaadKL4SvL3l2EuUBJLuOeKQw4n1Jh0sso4e7Ch6X4c1MEHCvi23gSSFbdHIO8/s1600/pancakes.jpg" title="Chocolate Chip Banana Pancakes" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carb-loading breakfast- chocolate chip banana pancakes for the win!</td></tr>
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We traveled to Philly with a group of about 20 Gazelles, and the entire weekend was an absolute blast. Carb loading, expo visiting, and obsessing over every logistical detail- I feel like I got the full marathon experience! When marathon morning came, I put on my Gazelle-phia shirt, wrote "Dig Deep. Run with joy." on my arm, and made my way to the starting line with my running buddy Meghan. Hank told me good luck and kissed me goodbye, and I immediately started crying. They were tears of excitement, fear, and joy just for making it to the starting line injury free.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPNGhd-XpWLmhSFslCk-Rwru8041DncBjU3RF0WBGh78on_hAN_ZSpA3wU40jSqHwDASdwgt5Gcrm_XSebdU9ruzAJUN30oe-BHpnBHlvqFHU37RlbjDecMy6H3ekm9TetMb1USFJ7Zw/s1600/ready+to+run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPNGhd-XpWLmhSFslCk-Rwru8041DncBjU3RF0WBGh78on_hAN_ZSpA3wU40jSqHwDASdwgt5Gcrm_XSebdU9ruzAJUN30oe-BHpnBHlvqFHU37RlbjDecMy6H3ekm9TetMb1USFJ7Zw/s1600/ready+to+run.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race day ready!</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_WmxtxGU3V5DvaY4wOuOybsGXjWkyoS43kS-cX44JStgVy-lmAqeGUke0_cnLic-fT9Q_laP89matIEpCcsIHkkAyIIjb1xGF-J98BT3fDbmGIi_-GVNmxDVGT_nwtQFxmI1w8eHa_M/s1600/start+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_WmxtxGU3V5DvaY4wOuOybsGXjWkyoS43kS-cX44JStgVy-lmAqeGUke0_cnLic-fT9Q_laP89matIEpCcsIHkkAyIIjb1xGF-J98BT3fDbmGIi_-GVNmxDVGT_nwtQFxmI1w8eHa_M/s1600/start+line.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting to get through security to the starting line.</td></tr>
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The race itself is almost a blur now. We ran a really smart and conservative first half, holding a consistent pace as we zig zagged all through downtown Philly. Historic buildings and unique neighborhoods made up the bulk of the first half and provided plenty of distraction. We enjoyed the excitement (and hilarious signs) that the crowd brought, and just soaked it all in. After crossing the half way mark- the course took a more scenic turn along the Schuykill River, and we were running against those who were making their way back to the finish. For about 3 miles we kept watch for the faster Gazelles, cheering them on as we saw them. It was so good for me to see Hank on the course- and let him know I was doing ok. Before we knew it, we hit mile 16- when I would normally have a total meltdown. Yet somehow I was still smiling, my legs were still moving, and we were still holding a consistent pace. (Thank you to Coach Gilbert for engraining that in our head!)</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qX6g53c0BOxsp97Bzgdrw4FaPzlgA3_k-yEoVURKQu4b-eK-hmNsh4cePwnn0qGC1aC1GeeF1ueeU9CGQWlSX8cEdJsNNIntqOIWMHyxSp5PTE6oyZiBrpkhbuoadabzs9j9CHsGxJE/s1600/amy+%2526+meghan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qX6g53c0BOxsp97Bzgdrw4FaPzlgA3_k-yEoVURKQu4b-eK-hmNsh4cePwnn0qGC1aC1GeeF1ueeU9CGQWlSX8cEdJsNNIntqOIWMHyxSp5PTE6oyZiBrpkhbuoadabzs9j9CHsGxJE/s1600/amy+%2526+meghan.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running with Meghan, and still smiling around mile 16!</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigv405nIiu3dDvfBJu8vy_4lsC2b1k0srqgV9Z3OKIeQptl7-E_BPYkYwtE1Mqvm3p5iTVpxVmV7jwwDlwCrcV3jqTnQJBuSElmwIlt-MpnUuNLCBcp1y7JnSId26-AIP60dJp3F0SrC4/s1600/thumbs+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigv405nIiu3dDvfBJu8vy_4lsC2b1k0srqgV9Z3OKIeQptl7-E_BPYkYwtE1Mqvm3p5iTVpxVmV7jwwDlwCrcV3jqTnQJBuSElmwIlt-MpnUuNLCBcp1y7JnSId26-AIP60dJp3F0SrC4/s1600/thumbs+up.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So close to the finish line!</td></tr>
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We hit the last turn at mile 20, and I knew that I had just one hour to go before I could call myself a marathoner. I wasn't going to hit my time goal, but I made the decision that I was absolutely not going to stop running. My body was holding up fine- it was all mental at that point. This is where the fantastic course came into play. Cheering spectators lined up so much of this section- it was such a huge rush. Meghan felt good enough to pick up the pace, and I just kept going until I met my good friend (and very fast runner) Bonnie at mile 23 to help me finish. What an honor to get to run with her! Those last 3 miles were so tough, but she kept me going with some positive pep talk and before I knew it- the finish line was in sight. I saw and heard my husband cheering as I crossed the finish line (4:44:00), and was so overcome with emotion. It is almost impossible to describe what it feels like to finish your first marathon.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmYAL57j4OGH0fGm6lnWwyf5JOrDbK8uK6Xxu5w5dIPgLTqOrRKoP4OsEer11liD_27P9pxWGv5uM3XOzN3drIuhoDZSCVrhcsMv7HXqB-oqxm2t3_AhBnbZWzz7cVHY9W65noHk8feM/s1600/Amy+finish+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmYAL57j4OGH0fGm6lnWwyf5JOrDbK8uK6Xxu5w5dIPgLTqOrRKoP4OsEer11liD_27P9pxWGv5uM3XOzN3drIuhoDZSCVrhcsMv7HXqB-oqxm2t3_AhBnbZWzz7cVHY9W65noHk8feM/s1600/Amy+finish+line.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I did it!</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdbMUZypdecw_rZnq1PZLrhTMiEpjwT4UJ4a_5Fj08qG7JeORZASZyytiY2r1r1KMqtkmZ5OwZP-uMLkZ3q90TUNh7qhcGmIBMW8n2x9KgP7bmJWTobsPXqCPlhDf1ZLXuoSWzuN996XY/s1600/H+%2526+A+post+race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdbMUZypdecw_rZnq1PZLrhTMiEpjwT4UJ4a_5Fj08qG7JeORZASZyytiY2r1r1KMqtkmZ5OwZP-uMLkZ3q90TUNh7qhcGmIBMW8n2x9KgP7bmJWTobsPXqCPlhDf1ZLXuoSWzuN996XY/s1600/H+%2526+A+post+race.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hank surprised me at the finish line with this awesome finisher's jacket. LOVE!</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1cfXcBV-mEXHpoqEETFVCJe7VGzzdV3wMlg6fb3MN_9QuTwKkGR1yOIcFX3HaAPpE6IV6GrRptqC9Py6v-exPefY7g3CKgCPCM4eH1xEcvRrlb4kNUrxOPkMQNhNrxMJBl_TI3zqxGQ/s1600/the+medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Marathon" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1cfXcBV-mEXHpoqEETFVCJe7VGzzdV3wMlg6fb3MN_9QuTwKkGR1yOIcFX3HaAPpE6IV6GrRptqC9Py6v-exPefY7g3CKgCPCM4eH1xEcvRrlb4kNUrxOPkMQNhNrxMJBl_TI3zqxGQ/s1600/the+medal.jpg" title="Philadelphia Marathon" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The most amazing medal ever.</td></tr>
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It was an absolute perfect day. No blisters, no cramps, no lost toenails...I didn't even have chafing issues! I was tired and cold at the finish, but the happiness of the accomplishment far surpassed sore legs. After chatting with my family and reading almost 100 Facebook comments, we showered and joined all our friends for a well deserved day of eating and drinking (and more eating and drinking). Honestly- the marathon was such a small part of the overall experience. It was more about the friends you make, and the good times (and hard times) you share as part of the training process.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTr3SEN04Ke0kJXSkvkymDNll9nDixgJ4YW1A7sjP5isRBdbYNfeksv7Az2BJ8rc7lotbwMf41zFPiCxZJs1Zy33r1WTDrmwoLbpG31dMB2a-NpdtrXMhybQV8rAxU0cdLEV2BMu0is_w/s1600/shenanigans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTr3SEN04Ke0kJXSkvkymDNll9nDixgJ4YW1A7sjP5isRBdbYNfeksv7Az2BJ8rc7lotbwMf41zFPiCxZJs1Zy33r1WTDrmwoLbpG31dMB2a-NpdtrXMhybQV8rAxU0cdLEV2BMu0is_w/s1600/shenanigans.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-marathon celebration shenanigans, Rocky style.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEKjmsQHMfbjHTV_urD-Rvfs2ZctFrPnD94j72TuTVe-Bg48LGwMzOl3v49R_YySBHUJoakIR_rcivqTPnWpKocsF2je5SxLwwAno55Ork5WZbkPVXunLOTgS0rarbVRf-eTqYOx9Y5w/s1600/Amy+%2526+Meghan+celebrating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEKjmsQHMfbjHTV_urD-Rvfs2ZctFrPnD94j72TuTVe-Bg48LGwMzOl3v49R_YySBHUJoakIR_rcivqTPnWpKocsF2je5SxLwwAno55Ork5WZbkPVXunLOTgS0rarbVRf-eTqYOx9Y5w/s1600/Amy+%2526+Meghan+celebrating.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So thankful for my awesome running partner. Couldn't have done it without her!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMCnuyju_1wu7f9pyJc__N0L7aDNSgETnQuBgvX30boFO6n0hvTyViXoAwVwzOJVT8WrKcHbH9x_bZZUgKXodyFAUaIiy7anC-qXRiuJUuu2ijXC2vBSZgruF8TytTYoDb8ltN_7gwR8/s1600/sight+seeing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMCnuyju_1wu7f9pyJc__N0L7aDNSgETnQuBgvX30boFO6n0hvTyViXoAwVwzOJVT8WrKcHbH9x_bZZUgKXodyFAUaIiy7anC-qXRiuJUuu2ijXC2vBSZgruF8TytTYoDb8ltN_7gwR8/s1600/sight+seeing.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Next day sight-seeing. Legs were sore, but it was good to get out and walk around. </td></tr>
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It will be hard to top my Philly experience, but you better bet that I'll give it another shot. I can't say enough how thankful I am for this wonderful training group known as the Gazelles. They inspire, motivate and support me beyond words, and I feel lucky to be a part of it!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNP6D1nnRwYrxLo4qYPjzYG6B0op_yAJY6DtVtYyZLhA7oLK7xPcQIVwGt65oGsqKej7DzPzjVqFbHTFBQuxqkKta52rWYUliygO50Wk0HA-gm5rj9FhF-fLu4XObD2HqH6FhbAa5A8fA/s1600/love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philadelphia Love Park" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNP6D1nnRwYrxLo4qYPjzYG6B0op_yAJY6DtVtYyZLhA7oLK7xPcQIVwGt65oGsqKej7DzPzjVqFbHTFBQuxqkKta52rWYUliygO50Wk0HA-gm5rj9FhF-fLu4XObD2HqH6FhbAa5A8fA/s1600/love.jpg" title="Philadelphia Love Park" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Philadelphia Love Park</td></tr>
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<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-10373726422924388272015-11-09T20:53:00.000-06:002015-11-09T20:53:40.078-06:00On the road again....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZbvhvmbcty_8mcpcuBsar25MYjvlh2gjDVai6dAxa-M7W-TJ8V0zR_S0g2R5rWPywKxCnKP3unui1KYXrID705_mRXwSiTeTT2SOBM6e0v_SD_-BfowQeRUvbwGbhBm5GMk9Wkf7Fak/s1600/road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZbvhvmbcty_8mcpcuBsar25MYjvlh2gjDVai6dAxa-M7W-TJ8V0zR_S0g2R5rWPywKxCnKP3unui1KYXrID705_mRXwSiTeTT2SOBM6e0v_SD_-BfowQeRUvbwGbhBm5GMk9Wkf7Fak/s1600/road.jpg" /></a></div>
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I've been on a five year hiatus from work travel (it was my life before I started working at Apple), and I feel a little bit like I got thrown back into the fire my first two weeks on the job. Let me recap last week for you.<br />
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Monday- Austin to Boston (after a 3 hour flight delay), then a drive to Portsmouth, NH<br />
Tuesday- Portsmouth to Boston (for 2 hours of sight seeing) to Milford, MA<br />
Wednesday- Milford to Meriden, CT<br />
Thursday- Meriden to Hoboken, NJ (quick pit stop to visit a good friend) to Philadelphia, PA<br />
Friday- Philadelphia to Orlando (flight) to Austin (after a 2 hour flight delay)<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZyyX0QmwSfqGhN_8pswykQIm0PncjAZFP7VJ5520Ws0HzYSr9jtKtnl9XLQ9u2jE3w41OA45qPAg-B7DDS2v3mEzA2N4io32UxzXo1EUjAzGTZDbFVjsLtzb3ZUmWvgk210kI9XbcO4/s1600/NE+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Scenes from the North East" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZyyX0QmwSfqGhN_8pswykQIm0PncjAZFP7VJ5520Ws0HzYSr9jtKtnl9XLQ9u2jE3w41OA45qPAg-B7DDS2v3mEzA2N4io32UxzXo1EUjAzGTZDbFVjsLtzb3ZUmWvgk210kI9XbcO4/s1600/NE+Collage.jpg" title="Scenes from the North East" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pics from Boston and Portsmouth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Counting the drive through New York, I was in a total of eight states in five days. We had four days of customer events and meetings, and it was absolutely glorious! I haven't been this tired in a long time, but it was exactly the kind of work that I needed to feel energized and excited again. I spent a super lazy day at home on Saturday, snuggling with Hank and the animals, and then left again Sunday morning for a week in Madison for training.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnS5eKH_OTiIgXL3Qz8nZQHDsUiK1_WVJeqMbhkT1WeQ8HHgx1FZ1mPhUr_HpiUwfIIs-kSKWjsbaJeBHlKSNjB7fWPmzUyBGnj-WyWdGJxwqO3axog9wNT6I7aNneAcXRqN7VhWbmH4/s1600/Capitol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Madison Capitol Building" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnS5eKH_OTiIgXL3Qz8nZQHDsUiK1_WVJeqMbhkT1WeQ8HHgx1FZ1mPhUr_HpiUwfIIs-kSKWjsbaJeBHlKSNjB7fWPmzUyBGnj-WyWdGJxwqO3axog9wNT6I7aNneAcXRqN7VhWbmH4/s1600/Capitol.jpg" title="Madison Capitol Building" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Madison Capitol Building</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNPS_T3ZnKwydHDC5ymQSsSTVhkbzLs99JE0If6B7J0Iq7LKDom5gfdU_91iZPnCLAWW5VhEOPGrNxxQxSIWi1kK0nikG5Gz2lVMDF-uDD4Wcvfz0YgSLvdMyjVrB8R-bvEo00jJtgMY/s1600/hotel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Hyatt Place Madison" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNPS_T3ZnKwydHDC5ymQSsSTVhkbzLs99JE0If6B7J0Iq7LKDom5gfdU_91iZPnCLAWW5VhEOPGrNxxQxSIWi1kK0nikG5Gz2lVMDF-uDD4Wcvfz0YgSLvdMyjVrB8R-bvEo00jJtgMY/s1600/hotel.JPG" title="Hyatt Place Madison" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hyatt Place Madison- My home for the week</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I absolutely love Madison. I'm staying downtown, and it's so nice to be able to walk down the street to a coffee shop or an Indian food restaurant or a sports bar. On Sunday I made my way to <b><i><a href="http://fromagination.com/" target="_blank">Fromagination</a></i></b>- quite possibly the world's best cheese shop! I'm not too far from the University of Wisconsin campus, and hope to make my way over there in the next few days to pick up a Badgers shirt for Hank. It's cold, but not too cold. This Texas girl doesn't mind a little taste of winter! It's also nice to just be in one place for the week. I got to unpack and have more of a regular schedule. Last week I barely worked out twice, and this week I should be able to almost every day. We're tapering for our marathon that is less than two weeks now. I'm trying not to freak out about that, and just focus on learning as much as possible while I'm at the office headquarters.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQ2L2MJl0ipCDOKsaJrSLwA4E37WfuzlZthM9tgZjdF09qaMR1Yg_0hx49YLjT0iM9DpwG18vS_t-pEGeH6TkLlO-jsjZypkH2nE6H1wr5sEbX8NYGSWvgxrSSiOG4pt1tUMP0mc586k/s1600/fromagination.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Fromagination" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQ2L2MJl0ipCDOKsaJrSLwA4E37WfuzlZthM9tgZjdF09qaMR1Yg_0hx49YLjT0iM9DpwG18vS_t-pEGeH6TkLlO-jsjZypkH2nE6H1wr5sEbX8NYGSWvgxrSSiOG4pt1tUMP0mc586k/s1600/fromagination.JPG" title="Fromagination" /></a></div>
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Life returns back to my new normal next week- with an entire week of home officing. I still haven't finished the office, even though Hank bribed me with a new Lululemon outfit to get it done. Hoping we can at least finish painting and get the desk put together on Sunday. It would be nice to have a space to work in other than our dining table. Until then, I'll continue enjoying my time in this fun city, but look forward to getting back home with my family.Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-11803338926058492442015-10-22T06:20:00.000-05:002015-10-22T06:20:10.906-05:00Fall is a season of change, part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQAkDwkCqc1dsKshyEh2oYCy2OUYL78K2gd7dTYhgUXL2OD5uq1Xa6np1gDxgMvioSfN6WHZ9HlKIZd6MoQgZ0qTNLqEHCwA4l0MigQ2H1aqC0hD_rgt-0cyiiKndTF23h8W4LnXVOTE/s1600/fresh+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQAkDwkCqc1dsKshyEh2oYCy2OUYL78K2gd7dTYhgUXL2OD5uq1Xa6np1gDxgMvioSfN6WHZ9HlKIZd6MoQgZ0qTNLqEHCwA4l0MigQ2H1aqC0hD_rgt-0cyiiKndTF23h8W4LnXVOTE/s320/fresh+start.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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Today is my last day at Apple. I can hardly even type that sentence without tears streaming down my face. These past 5 years have been an amazing professional experience, with some of the most incredible co-workers a person could ask for. When I think about not showing up to work tomorrow, running across the street to grab tacos with my breakfast crew, popping my head into other offices to ask questions or chat about something ridiculous that just happened....I start wondering if I have made the right decision. I know without a doubt that I have, but that won't make today any less difficult.<br />
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When I left off at <b><a href="http://www.thehollandhouse.me/2015/10/fall-is-season-of-change-part-1.html" target="_blank"><i>Part 1</i></a></b>, I had made the decision to meet with a Career Coach to start mapping out what my possible next steps could be. My goal was to begin a career search in January. I swear not a few days after my initial phone call to set up an appointment, I was contacted about a possible position that was highly intriguing. It was an expansion role for this company, and would allow me to continue working with the Apple Education team- just in a different capacity. I decided to pursue conversations, and eventually flew out to Madison, WI for my official interview at the end of September.<br />
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Meanwhile, I attended three coaching sessions with my friend Amy at <b><i><a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=wolfgang+career+coaching&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8" target="_blank">Wolfgang Career Coaching</a></i></b>. At my first appointment, we switched gears from identifying possible career paths, to focusing on whether this particular opportunity would meet my needs and be more fulfilling. Investing in that time with Amy is one of the best decisions I have made, and I cannot recommend her practice highly enough. She helped me form the right questions to ask, evaluate the role from a perspective I hadn't thought of, and navigate through negotiating an offer that made sure my value was recognized. When it came time for me to say "yes", I was absolutely confident I was making the right decision.<br />
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One of my favorite parts about working at Apple is the people. They aren't just co-workers. They are an extension of my family. Even through some of the more difficult changes we have gone through recently- I could always rely on them to make the days better. So when it came time to consider leaving them, I knew it would have to be a really amazing group of people that I would start working with. My interview in Madison was a special experience, and gave me an opportunity to meet everyone who works for this small, but global, company. In fact, my first meeting was a team dinner where I was literally just thrown into the fire. It was perfect for someone social like me, and felt like it gave me the chance to get to know everyone before sitting down the next day for more serious conversations.<br />
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There are lots of positive things about this career move. It's a higher level role with more responsibility and decision making authority. While it involves some travel, it puts me in front of my customers again which is something I have been sorely missing. But most importantly- it will allow me to partner with all of my favorite people at Apple. I won't be at the office with them every day, but I'll get to call/visit/and present with them on a regular basis. It really is a "best of both worlds" position, and I can't wait to get started. Bonus is that I'll be working from home! The dogs are totally prepared to be my new favorite co-workers.<br />
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So today isn't necessarily about saying goodbye, but more- I'll see you in a few weeks. I'm making a big breakfast to take in this morning along with some bubbly to make mimosas and toast my fabulous teammates. I hope to goodness that I can make it through the morning without ugly crying all over myself. It just won't be the same not seeing them everyday! Change isn't always easy, but there is definitely something hopeful about a fresh start. </div>
Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-8012207590645997192015-10-05T18:46:00.000-05:002015-10-05T18:46:30.448-05:00Fall is a season of change, part 1<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqECyHnC1JGwPtWtS4eWCiOaC_X2NZw5gphAPquXl-w8JemFd8xXsAfx7CdCwUTKIzZnQekY-_hd1-yXOCBdeXQcSo1qowj09TiyPNE2vD0gT1WhdilaDIG1-vEZ-1txQvR8Q2hzUjZqE/s1600/constituency_arboretum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Madison Arboretum" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqECyHnC1JGwPtWtS4eWCiOaC_X2NZw5gphAPquXl-w8JemFd8xXsAfx7CdCwUTKIzZnQekY-_hd1-yXOCBdeXQcSo1qowj09TiyPNE2vD0gT1WhdilaDIG1-vEZ-1txQvR8Q2hzUjZqE/s1600/constituency_arboretum.jpg" title="Madison Arboretum" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">University of Madison-Wisconsin Arboretum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Five years ago I embarked on a career move that I never dreamed of, and accepted a job with the Apple Education team. I knew nothing about inside sales at the time, but was ready for a challenge and excited to be working for a global company. I was wide-eyed and overwhelmed those first few weeks. Not only was I in the throws of job training, but I also drank from the firehouse at my very first National Sales Meeting, just a week into my new job. It was just as exciting and exhilarating as most new jobs are.<br />
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The first two years flew by and were a huge success. I exceeded my sales quota both years, and was rewarded with awesome trips to Hawaii and Nevis. And then things started to change. My quota skyrocketed to a number that I haven't been able to obtain again. My beloved field partner left the company, and I was tasked with managing a large strategic territory all by myself. The fall of my third year, I ended up with not one, but two new field partners. It was at that point that I realized how much I had learned, and loved sharing that knowledge as I helped train them. We've been a fantastic team ever since and I'm so thankful for the amazing people that I get to work with.<br />
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Change is inevitable in all facets of life, and I have certainly learned how to embrace it over the past two decades. At work we've had changes in management and changes to the way we do business. While some of it has been good, it has led to changes in how I feel about my work. Without complaining too much, I'll just say that I no longer feel as fulfilled as I did when I first started. At almost 40 years of age, I want more control over how I do business, and I want to be in front of people again.<br />
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About a month ago I sat down with my manager (who I love and respect dearly) to talk about how I was feeling about my work. I wanted her guidance on what other options I might have that would allow me to stay at Apple. She was supportive and understanding, gave me some good advice, and I felt like a huge weight had been lifted after that conversation.<br />
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Knowing that my options were limited, I made an appointment with an old friend who runs a successful career coaching business. I was in no hurry to make an immediate change, and wanted to be very thoughtful about what my next move might be. I established a goal of working to identify options that would be more challenging and fulfilling, with January being the time frame for when I would actively start searching for new options.<br />
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And this is when things started to get interesting...... (stay tuned for part 2).Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-67985874417819256322015-08-13T16:25:00.000-05:002015-08-13T16:25:12.091-05:00B is for Blair, Baseball, and Birthday!It's hard to believe that my adorable, hilarious, sweet as pie nephew is 2. It seems like just yesterday that I was at the hospital holding a little tiny baby, wondering how I could love something as much as I loved my niece. It didn't take long to realize there was plenty of room for both, and now that he is pretty much a full blown toddler, life is so much fun.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapNNN0ylVLL6efNnkuVpR9qqX7_UUrWrtF-R9eLBZyA7z_3GC-5dXS5jzwj0ANstlhmnRt0HXb9Qdh5S2itrn4VljS9tXAzc0xBegpu1AiMoOMBrRzdmcMPVctBvg92yEooNs-yjyclI/s1600/blair+age+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Blair through the years" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapNNN0ylVLL6efNnkuVpR9qqX7_UUrWrtF-R9eLBZyA7z_3GC-5dXS5jzwj0ANstlhmnRt0HXb9Qdh5S2itrn4VljS9tXAzc0xBegpu1AiMoOMBrRzdmcMPVctBvg92yEooNs-yjyclI/s1600/blair+age+Collage.jpg" title="Blair through the years" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blair from newborn to 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Blair LOVES baseball. He goes to Texas State games with his family all the time, so my sister thought it would be fun to see an Express game in Round Rock. After the full blown <b><i><a href="http://www.thehollandhouse.me/2014/08/blairs-first-birthday-fiesta.html" target="_blank">First Birthday Fiesta</a></i></b> last year, she opted for a much more low key, family only affair. I think everyone breathed a sigh of relief. We all met at my parents for a baseball themed dinner, presents, and dessert before heading north to the ballpark. Blair also loves sweets almost as much as he loves baseball, and could barely wait to dig in to some cupcakes. No party would be complete without Sweet Elise treats, so I made him some fun cookies as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQtvV8Z0omYqQcuE2M_CVFUjuWzwuQ9rr11DQc2f5alDDYc84ngRh9PQw4nMpsJnOcUWd_ubyrQHymi2_JcgqkyWKKI0kqfjbhS6qj7y9fFvjsVp2Mz5l4YvszYpRp_ZhtX52rnTodb0/s1600/blair+cupcake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Birthday Cupcakes" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQtvV8Z0omYqQcuE2M_CVFUjuWzwuQ9rr11DQc2f5alDDYc84ngRh9PQw4nMpsJnOcUWd_ubyrQHymi2_JcgqkyWKKI0kqfjbhS6qj7y9fFvjsVp2Mz5l4YvszYpRp_ZhtX52rnTodb0/s1600/blair+cupcake.jpg" title="Blair loves sweets" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZq87OnLQ38m0fJNOap1X5o64vd5NmNuLB7cJlBuCcpi4GYd-UZ9SwO6cqgs1CYgOEirxCrptCQ09LSOlxp3Gci_dGfWY3JHEMEbIYlC6lzHLIpvxFzSTn3h5HOr4-k0ofrFp5t01IFc/s1600/baseball+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sweet Elise baseball cookie favors" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZq87OnLQ38m0fJNOap1X5o64vd5NmNuLB7cJlBuCcpi4GYd-UZ9SwO6cqgs1CYgOEirxCrptCQ09LSOlxp3Gci_dGfWY3JHEMEbIYlC6lzHLIpvxFzSTn3h5HOr4-k0ofrFp5t01IFc/s1600/baseball+cookies.jpg" title="Sweet Elise baseball cookie favors" /></a></div>
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Everyone loaded up and headed to the park. It was pretty hot, but luckily our seats were in the shade. I absolutely loved seeing how big Blair's eyes got when we walked into the stadium. He wouldn't let go of his new baseball glove, and had the most fun saying "Let's go, blue" over, and over, and over again. (If you follow me on <b><i><a href="https://instagram.com/thehollandhouseher/" target="_blank">Instagram</a></i></b>, you might have seen his cute video.)</div>
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Not to be outdone, my niece Georgia stole the show as well with plenty of cheering and picture taking too. Even harder to believe that she will be starting kindergarten in just a couple of weeks.</div>
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Overall it was a super fun way to celebrate a birthday, and I think everyone enjoyed themselves. </div>
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<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-69206720242900268702015-08-04T18:53:00.001-05:002015-08-05T07:56:47.041-05:00Marathon Training: Month OneI did it. I survived the first month of training for the Philadelphia Marathon. It's crazy to say this, but I am actually really enjoying the training. Despite the ridiculous heat and humidity, I am finding joy in each bit of progress that I make, and am learning a lot about myself in the process.<br />
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At the beginning of June, I struggled to run 3 miles. I was out of shape, and not very motivated. So I used that whole month to get my rear in gear- I cleaned up my eating with the <b><i><a href="http://www.thehollandhouse.me/2015/07/no-shortcuts.html" target="_blank">Earn That Body </a></i></b>plan, I consistently worked out 5 days a week, and I formed habits that would make July a lot less painful. In July, I did the work. I showed up, gave 100% effort, and took pride in each workout that was faster or longer than the previous. My personality type thrives on schedules, goals, and progress. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that training has been so motivating for me. It also helps that my husband is doing the same exact thing. I don't have to worry about being lame when I get in bed at 8. He's right there next to me. Five days a week, our alarms are going off at 4:30am. We're in this together, and it makes it that much more fun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHV_w3kGAIm1Ggpc3wwzFSyMRW-zQQKHS9VKFNS2taPDEAMfJvhxnXnfo_GPLI4ztjM8K9hk3k_WD9v3Dm8N5QItkrheSYwaLWzbg_1s8JoSg2QO6v3-HHA7fFodokfTuhQA7qfWQrSTM/s1600/marathon+training.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Marathon Training" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHV_w3kGAIm1Ggpc3wwzFSyMRW-zQQKHS9VKFNS2taPDEAMfJvhxnXnfo_GPLI4ztjM8K9hk3k_WD9v3Dm8N5QItkrheSYwaLWzbg_1s8JoSg2QO6v3-HHA7fFodokfTuhQA7qfWQrSTM/s1600/marathon+training.jpg" title="Marathon Training" /></a></div>
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Our training schedule was pretty consistent for the whole month:<br />
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Monday- Circuit workout<br />
Tuesday- Recovery run (30-40 minutes, easy pace)<br />
Wednesday- Track/speed workout (2400m test, or 4-6 mile fartlek)<br />
Thursday- Recovery run (30-40 minutes, easy pace)<br />
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Friday- Rest</div>
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Saturday- Long run (I did distances of 10, 11, 11.5, and 12)</div>
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Sunday- Rest</div>
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Each month we do a 2400m test on the track. It's basically 6 laps, all out. Your time on this test helps determine what your Marathon Goal Pace (MGP) should be. In June, my time was 13:26. I was one of the slowest in the group, and just tried to view it as just a starting point. In July, I shaved over a minute off that time, finishing in 12:23. Wednesday morning we have our August test, and I'm hoping to finish at an even 12:00. That's an 8 minute mile, and that sounds fast enough for now. At my current pace, my MGP is 10:15, which translates to a 4 1/2 hour marathon. I would love to finish faster than that, but I'm still sticking to my main goal- finish it without a meltdown.</div>
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The fartlek workout is basically intervals. We have done one minute fast/one minute slow, two minutes fast/one minute slow, and 3-2-1 fast, with 1 minute slow in between. We've increased the miles that we do this, and have also picked up our pace. I'm proud to say that I can hang with ladies that I wasn't able to keep up with a month ago. It's a hard workout, but really satisfying when done. </div>
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Saturday long runs have been a different ball game. We alternate flat and hilly routes, and they have been a beating. Part of the problem is that we're running them at MGP, when we should really be doing them a minute slower pace. I had two 11 mile runs that were so, so tough. I had almost nothing left at the end. So this past Saturday we actually listened to our coach, and we slowed our start way down. We then progressively got faster over the course of 12 miles. The result was a solid run with a strong finish. I could have continued going, even though I was more than happy to stop! We've been rewarding ourselves with a dip in the Barton Springs spillway afterwards to cool down (the water is a perfect 68°), and I look forward to that almost as much as I do the breakfast tacos and coffee that we have shortly after.<br />
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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/AVvXsEi3qHV_yDgFyGbXqBB-lunLaPO6_Z6IzTRy229GWqt1nnCjwbrURE7XJtwcc9qpWDR6d1AfbEfitNLhcCF2UgsE1uEdXoF95cLXkI9cbbKtS6PFL6SjXsRYhDAT-we7LaiTfEVC_oogmTw/s1600/spillway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Marathon Training" border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qHV_yDgFyGbXqBB-lunLaPO6_Z6IzTRy229GWqt1nnCjwbrURE7XJtwcc9qpWDR6d1AfbEfitNLhcCF2UgsE1uEdXoF95cLXkI9cbbKtS6PFL6SjXsRYhDAT-we7LaiTfEVC_oogmTw/s640/spillway.jpg" title="Barton Springs Spillway" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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There is absolutely no way that I could be surviving this training without the wonderfully inspiring group that I run with, <b><i><a href="http://www.gilbertsgazelles.com/" target="_blank">Gilbert's Gazelles</a></i></b>. Gilbert's motto is to "Run with Joy", and we practice that on a weekly basis. I've gotten to know some really lovely ladies, and my husband and his faster group of friends have been so encouraging and supportive- recognizing the progress that I'm making. I'm quickly realizing what a group effort it is to accomplish something like this, and I'm so thankful for the support. </div>
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There are a few other essentials that I absolutely could not survive this training without.</div>
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1- <b>Good running shoes</b>. I'm a <b><i><a href="http://www.mizunousa.com/Running/Womens/Running-Shoes" target="_blank">Mizuno</a></i></b> girl, and just replaced my blue Wave Riders with this pretty purple/green pair. I really can't run in anything else! It's important to keep your shoes fresh and cushy, and I plan on purchasing one more pair just before the race. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggO72qjSgxcigRjMRUyKh2vCk-dgc4DaNldj54Em2J62lGToGjMXWqHubENmnm7NAF33q7y9t4m6kZL77ARBngbhARpFcJRTM_ngHcAQOyzuwbFG8kTIkDm_hvzfkyxDpD7J9ZrptHTE/s1600/Wave+Rider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Marathon Training Essentials" border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggO72qjSgxcigRjMRUyKh2vCk-dgc4DaNldj54Em2J62lGToGjMXWqHubENmnm7NAF33q7y9t4m6kZL77ARBngbhARpFcJRTM_ngHcAQOyzuwbFG8kTIkDm_hvzfkyxDpD7J9ZrptHTE/s400/Wave+Rider.png" title="Mizzen Wave Rider 18" width="400" /></a></div>
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2- <b>Hydration</b>. It's hot and humid in Texas, and staying hydrated all week is really important. I recently switched from Nuun to <i><b><a href="http://www.skratchlabs.com/products/exercise-hydration-mix?variant=466781085" target="_blank">Skratch Labs Hydration Mix</a></b></i>, and am a big fan of the pineapple flavor. The Matcha Green Tea with Lemon flavor is surprisingly refreshing too. You can buy single servings to test out flavors, and then a big bag once you decide on a favorite. For Saturday long runs, I also take 1-2 <b><i><a href="http://www.hammernutrition.com/products/endurolytes-reg-.elt.html" target="_blank">Hammer Endurolytes</a></i></b>. I haven't had any issues with cramping, and I've found that I don't have bad headaches later in the day. (This has always been an issue for me.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuAkWxlOx0reHeDHr1d6SawyiELACtOwF3ryauH93HkldfYfiFQRvBGTLAUDD9alkJfUXSGRpB3R8-RTAAJtcW9ZNZW2y-TRH1HEFScv2ytzotJeN0i5h8qtRJlCH7Sty3xcj1FnyF4x4/s1600/skratch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Marathon Training Essentials" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuAkWxlOx0reHeDHr1d6SawyiELACtOwF3ryauH93HkldfYfiFQRvBGTLAUDD9alkJfUXSGRpB3R8-RTAAJtcW9ZNZW2y-TRH1HEFScv2ytzotJeN0i5h8qtRJlCH7Sty3xcj1FnyF4x4/s320/skratch.jpg" title="Skratch Labs Hydration Mix" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. <b>My Garmin watch</b>. Right now I have the <i><b><a href="https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/into-sports/discontinued/forerunner-110/prod63511.html" target="_blank">Forerunner 110</a></b></i>, and I plan to upgrade to the 220 at the end of August. The one I have is perfect for basic pace monitoring, and getting a summary of your run at the end. But I can't program it, and that is a functionality that I'm finding I could really use. Luckily I run with plenty of friends who have the 220, and have been able to rely on them for our interval workouts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHg48cRFP10xkJaBXIpuK4gI22VyrmAL4jz8ckkoZBARXkVgY61gc70ndAisO3Jptbv9fVlY0RrTZfYwZ9kgEzWdBAjmY1EFI65WFvHdNcpuKI4I68KHbt3uG1sA8lIwFxvafAN8GJXo/s1600/garmin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Marathon Training Essentials" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHg48cRFP10xkJaBXIpuK4gI22VyrmAL4jz8ckkoZBARXkVgY61gc70ndAisO3Jptbv9fVlY0RrTZfYwZ9kgEzWdBAjmY1EFI65WFvHdNcpuKI4I68KHbt3uG1sA8lIwFxvafAN8GJXo/s1600/garmin.jpg" title="Garmin Forerunner 110" /></a></div>
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4. <b>Anti-chafing balm</b>. Did I mention how hot and humid it is? I produce an enormous amount of sweat on the long runs, and have run into some chafing issues that have been less than pleasant. I use <i><b><a href="https://www.bodyglide.com/shop/her/" target="_blank">Glide</a></b></i> under my arms and on the part of my thighs that rub together (you won't be finding any thigh gap here!) I'm hoping that with a November marathon, this won't be such an issue. But you can bet that I will pack some in my Spi-belt just in case!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF6NPnQw9bBaF8NrF3hceqEuuT5x3dBFrd3P22JNl1ao5YdsHsYgcl5N6WhyHgifTQTk4o2X2q7eC2keq48tCCd6FUYcjouUQ0a8B6_egsl2JOovzXlfiY5uL679pLn_hlGkvPkaQf9fU/s1600/glide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Marathon Training Essentials" border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF6NPnQw9bBaF8NrF3hceqEuuT5x3dBFrd3P22JNl1ao5YdsHsYgcl5N6WhyHgifTQTk4o2X2q7eC2keq48tCCd6FUYcjouUQ0a8B6_egsl2JOovzXlfiY5uL679pLn_hlGkvPkaQf9fU/s320/glide.jpg" title="Glide Protection Balm" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm glad to have July under my belt, and I'm hoping that August goes by pretty quickly because the heat just isn't letting up. For month two, our Saturday long runs will bump up to the 12-15 mile range, and I should start averaging 30-35 miles per week of running. I keep telling myself that if I can keep running in these conditions, then a November marathon in Philadelphia should feel like paradise. It's testing my mental toughness, for sure. But I'm having a blast doing it!</div>
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Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-45390252032007299752015-07-28T09:17:00.001-05:002015-07-28T09:17:12.199-05:00Adventures in Fostering: PercyIt's sad that we've actually had two foster dogs over the past several months, and I never got around to writing about them. I'll come back to recap the most recent, as we actually had him for almost two months. But today is all about Percy. Get a load of this little guy:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsjcV95tXWgkgI3deUZG6hFju0aVoGS33isO9u7rwxa0sHtNV11QtIe1NppB-sindAebT5GFe6CjkZKD1fnn7QDMosN9J87pVNFu6wsQqqP6nuuWIyk3EdVNlMTFc6kRgfZ4XJnN4KSwo/s1600/Percy+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Percy the Foster Dog" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsjcV95tXWgkgI3deUZG6hFju0aVoGS33isO9u7rwxa0sHtNV11QtIe1NppB-sindAebT5GFe6CjkZKD1fnn7QDMosN9J87pVNFu6wsQqqP6nuuWIyk3EdVNlMTFc6kRgfZ4XJnN4KSwo/s1600/Percy+3.jpg" title="Percy the Foster Dog" /></a></div>
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We got an email last week from <b><i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AustinAreaAnimalRehabilitationAndAdoption?fref=ts" target="_blank">Wags, Hope, and Healing</a></i></b>, asking if we would be interested in helping to socialize a feral pup. Some people had purchased property, and found a litter of 5 dogs on it with no mother in sight. One of the pups was deceased, and the remaining four were filthy dirty and in need of a few good meals. Our schedule is crazy busy right now, but we said we could commit to two weeks. Luckily, there is an adoption event planned on August 8th, so the timing worked out perfectly.<br />
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We've had a variety of foster dogs, but none that had ever been feral. These pups had likely never seen a human before they were found, and were rightfully frightened of people. It's said that the first 12 weeks of a puppies life can make or break them, so thankfully there was a window of opportunity to show them how fun people (and homes) can be. He is estimated to be around 10 weeks old.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KVAtBsjOekvvgHJBotWk2EJSHS1vC1PKCPoMOfkcRn3lTIbjWmNUYsnCgiG0jbpl8xzWBVHlCHR9hgbzYCVs77UrNF6d-EHFIo4Ysn7s_YJntMBIv7VSbMH7GBe5greI2zA3ksRN2Ck/s1600/Percy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Percy the Foster Dog" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KVAtBsjOekvvgHJBotWk2EJSHS1vC1PKCPoMOfkcRn3lTIbjWmNUYsnCgiG0jbpl8xzWBVHlCHR9hgbzYCVs77UrNF6d-EHFIo4Ysn7s_YJntMBIv7VSbMH7GBe5greI2zA3ksRN2Ck/s1600/Percy+2.jpg" title="Percy the Foster Dog" /></a></div>
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Hank picked the name Percy because it's short for perseverance. It's also a little bit "country" which is exactly what Percy is- a country mutt! Having been with him for a few days, the name is a perfect fit. He is definitely warming up to us, and loves to snuggle (especially at night). More than anything though, he LOVES his foster siblings. He follows them everywhere, and is so cute when he tries to instigate play. Brees has been really good and patient with him, and will engage in play and snuggling. Maddie is a little more hit or miss. Her contribution has mainly been teaching him who is boss.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHOOqKy64FMXm1Mrw08QfzEeqP68HuglQxP2nWE0VL9a8h6QJQfzuEL0RNIl2fTawthBk6uZ2ynfZpEUfR9t3oTu71JnFWN9angAwxF69K4DxLz530E0yyjtRlFrDCYQ9tkYICRKDtFg/s1600/Percy+and+Brees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Percy and Brees" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHOOqKy64FMXm1Mrw08QfzEeqP68HuglQxP2nWE0VL9a8h6QJQfzuEL0RNIl2fTawthBk6uZ2ynfZpEUfR9t3oTu71JnFWN9angAwxF69K4DxLz530E0yyjtRlFrDCYQ9tkYICRKDtFg/s1600/Percy+and+Brees.jpg" title="Percy and Brees" /></a></div>
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I have no doubt that he will continue to come out of his shell over the next couple of weeks, and I know it will be hard to say goodbye when the time comes. But we love getting to help like this, and we'll make the most out of our puppy time.<br />
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<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-25207494963057498512015-07-13T10:24:00.000-05:002015-07-13T10:24:03.733-05:00Texas Wine CountryA couple of weekends ago we drove out 290 west towards Hye, TX for some wine tasting. Hank and I thought it would be a fun way to celebrate my mom's birthday, and no one knows wine quite like my parents. Texas wine often leaves much to be desired, but we have a few favorites, and stumbled upon a new one on this most recent trip.<br />
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Our day started at <b><i><a href="http://www.grapecreek.com/" target="_blank">Grape Creek Vineyards</a></i></b>. It's one of the larger operations, and they have a beautiful property. There is a huge patio, live music on the weekends, and a menu with substantial food to help get you through a day of drinking. We lucked out with really nice weather, and enjoyed sitting outside eating lunch before our tasting. The wine was ok- not really memorable. But this was a great stop to kick off our afternoon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQSEi5dczFlNCK3XgRHmf0pfgZbfa12zX3Qg4I9pNorPAVMoajSny6Y3QXfs-QpG3E1AxtA1HWpQ-UHPJPmUzfGJejrY9Zt_2Gt4S7zzIRcdOR1oWkeSzbgFoThczU2exdyWU2ieToBk/s1600/Grape+Creek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQSEi5dczFlNCK3XgRHmf0pfgZbfa12zX3Qg4I9pNorPAVMoajSny6Y3QXfs-QpG3E1AxtA1HWpQ-UHPJPmUzfGJejrY9Zt_2Gt4S7zzIRcdOR1oWkeSzbgFoThczU2exdyWU2ieToBk/s1600/Grape+Creek.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the patio at Grape Creek.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Next stop was a smaller operation called <b><i><a href="http://hilmywine.com/" target="_blank">Hilmy Cellars</a></i></b>. A friend has recently been to visit and raved about their Rosé. My mom and I both loved the fact that it was a working farm, complete with pea fowl, goats, and a giant Great Pyrenees who kept all the other animals safe. The property was really pretty, and I couldn't have been more excited to see Simon the dog sleeping on the cold concrete when we got there. He is up all night guarding the animals, and gets to sleep wherever he wants during the day. When he's not sleeping, he's begging for ear scratches from anyone who will indulge him.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyI3B1Z0ORYern8RlLDAnqGzKsa6Kwwp-el32keuaWqasI9FoFLY6kigeaK2usB_2wk4BSwgpW0bHieXAR0yqa8LwK_l0DS4RT86vSDRdCJLCIKBjTv2SbOQARAGDyj-cWRwWIt68k9dY/s1600/Hilmy+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Hilmy Cellars" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyI3B1Z0ORYern8RlLDAnqGzKsa6Kwwp-el32keuaWqasI9FoFLY6kigeaK2usB_2wk4BSwgpW0bHieXAR0yqa8LwK_l0DS4RT86vSDRdCJLCIKBjTv2SbOQARAGDyj-cWRwWIt68k9dY/s1600/Hilmy+Collage.jpg" title="Hilmy Cellars" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hilmy Cellars</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9wk9XniwWmL_8UdcuVgFWHbHmQv0o8RtF0vTcnB_NOJdr_HoIFat4NvaYY8-e3KxNGeJoJxP7JztSUK13xp5e0QKzX7xM9Au4Oj1hqSKK0SKVmPTiHrQEJdgih9kyh3FmG4rp7zXR7g/s1600/Hilmy+Working+Farm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Hilmy Cellars" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9wk9XniwWmL_8UdcuVgFWHbHmQv0o8RtF0vTcnB_NOJdr_HoIFat4NvaYY8-e3KxNGeJoJxP7JztSUK13xp5e0QKzX7xM9Au4Oj1hqSKK0SKVmPTiHrQEJdgih9kyh3FmG4rp7zXR7g/s1600/Hilmy+Working+Farm.jpg" title="Hilmy Cellars: Simon the dog" /></a></div>
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<br />
Our tasting experience was a lot of fun. The guy who was pouring really likes what he does, and the people he works for. He even gave us a little tour. The Rosé was delicious, as well as most of their white wines. The reds were a little rough- but it's hard to make a good red with Texas grapes. We did join their wine club <b><i><a href="http://hilmywine.com/wine-club" target="_blank">The Flock</a></i></b>, and I'm looking forward to getting a shipment this fall. They also have a tasting event on July 17th at Oasis Brewing, (conveniently located minutes from our house) and we'll make an appearance there. I do highly recommend making a stop there. It's the perfect place to cool off with a glass of white, and maybe eat a few snacks on their patio. Just be sure to give Simon some attention.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_gi1AovbSlKY5-Vbu4TUlI0bSvDKouUjirPWC3sE_MXGSfS_T2oy68oN3ToUXvgL0Ix-S9s-5kh_-qBqbhp72LzLcjqoHaop1TejHQ417aRIeqqyNx6_f2j3I7w-c5zHqnpH_vW0zxs/s1600/Amy+and+mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_gi1AovbSlKY5-Vbu4TUlI0bSvDKouUjirPWC3sE_MXGSfS_T2oy68oN3ToUXvgL0Ix-S9s-5kh_-qBqbhp72LzLcjqoHaop1TejHQ417aRIeqqyNx6_f2j3I7w-c5zHqnpH_vW0zxs/s1600/Amy+and+mom.jpg" title="" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my beautiful mother.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Next stop was <b><i><a href="http://www.kuhlmancellars.com/" target="_blank">Kuhlman Cellars</a></i></b>. We hadn't necessarily planned on going there, but decided to give it a try when we drove by it. Little did we know that you really need to make reservations ahead of time, as they do a food/wine pairing. Luckily they were able to squeeze us in, and I'm so glad they did. This ended up being our favorite stop, and by far the best wines of the day. The winemaker is a French woman who has also spent time in California. Both the whites and reds were really sophisticated, making use of Texas and California grapes. We also joined their wine club, and will make a return visit soon to try out their new pairing menu. If you head this way, definitely make a stop at Kuhlman (and make a reservation ahead of time!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76kTQpU8GjSPv4J973FbQPPi-2EgEyTEN2q0tY8itWf7Hi0-SgKdH5YSIBtAIadCa_PbQX-3Xr2C6inUEk166eIWF4tA2zkcVDUh0AqKGUoyhlAhfjk5vqhNeAOk7rvyG-CDXenCTZJs/s1600/Kuhlman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img alt="The Holland House: Kuhlman Cellars Wine and Food Pairing" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76kTQpU8GjSPv4J973FbQPPi-2EgEyTEN2q0tY8itWf7Hi0-SgKdH5YSIBtAIadCa_PbQX-3Xr2C6inUEk166eIWF4tA2zkcVDUh0AqKGUoyhlAhfjk5vqhNeAOk7rvyG-CDXenCTZJs/s1600/Kuhlman.jpg" title="Kuhlman Cellars" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"></span></div>
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What are your favorite stops for Texas Wineries? There are several regions to go to, and this area is really the only place that we have gone. Would be curious to hear about other "can't miss" locations.<br />
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<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-57170861219756340492015-07-01T16:48:00.000-05:002015-07-01T16:48:20.747-05:00No ShortcutsA few months ago, I signed up for a marathon. I think I'm still in shock that I committed to do it. Two years ago, as I watched a friend cross the finish line at the Boston Marathon in record time, I was inspired. I told Hank "if I'm not pregnant by the end of the year, I'm signing up to run one." Well, the pregnancy never happened. But I kept putting off the marathon idea, along with other things, "just in case". After a lot of soul searching, I decided to stop waiting, and start living my life. I was tired of holding off on plans while holding on to the hope that by some small miracle I would get pregnant.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia50Mq_5jYKaG_pehON-qNA5XJkNRfJw8ZDLTC4GYW6eOCotOJ3_sTpz1HiSX5_NwSh9nt0LDAXheAWBRMh1cvkKxQI16hNh2BjqfQdgjwJijMq2nSJkLlA2brB1O-Hgr8NkIB6oWWZiE/s1600/life+is+too+short.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Life is to short to wait" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia50Mq_5jYKaG_pehON-qNA5XJkNRfJw8ZDLTC4GYW6eOCotOJ3_sTpz1HiSX5_NwSh9nt0LDAXheAWBRMh1cvkKxQI16hNh2BjqfQdgjwJijMq2nSJkLlA2brB1O-Hgr8NkIB6oWWZiE/s1600/life+is+too+short.jpg" title="Life is too short to wait" /></a></div>
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<br />
One small wrinkle in this new plan- I was in absolutely no shape to run, or even train for, a marathon. I've continually gained weight over the past 3 years, and reached a new low when a recent body mass test revealed that I was borderline obese based on my body fat percentage. I was on a roll with running earlier this year, until a chronic cough sidelined me for almost two months. I kept coming up with excuses to get back at it, until a friend posted a picture of me from 3 years ago. It almost stopped me in my tracks, the physical difference between then and now. I knew that if I didn't find a way to make sustainable changes, I was going to head into my 40's at a weight that wasn't healthy for me. Marathon or not, I owed it to myself to find a way to improve my overall health and fitness.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUfbKAxxR4TTovHzVAU9AtnEqNXauO818Z9BJ9_j9-myIprSSG2tw_4bVJeL6vQflGtR610QNtoU896kNhEAR8sio0KCFPVUNGvvuEfyFz_Oc6j_y0_WyETNHOPMbK0F3ManE1lcmlBM/s1600/old+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Ideal Picture" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUfbKAxxR4TTovHzVAU9AtnEqNXauO818Z9BJ9_j9-myIprSSG2tw_4bVJeL6vQflGtR610QNtoU896kNhEAR8sio0KCFPVUNGvvuEfyFz_Oc6j_y0_WyETNHOPMbK0F3ManE1lcmlBM/s1600/old+pic.jpg" title="Ideal Picture" /></a></div>
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Enter <b><i><a href="http://earnthatbody.com/" target="_blank">Earn that Body</a></i></b>, and the wonderfully inspiring Kim Eagle. I had noticed that a girl from my training group was really looking good. Not that she didn't before, but there was a noticeable difference in her physique, and she looked amazing. Healthy and strong, but not too skinny. She looked the way that I wanted to look again. So I asked her what she had been doing, and she mentioned Kim's programs. It wasn't for the faint of heart, she said. But that's why it's called EARN that Body, and not WANT that Body. I emailed Kim a few times, and decided to try her 30 day <b><i><a href="http://earnthatbody.com/programs/etb-tox-2/" target="_blank">ETB-tox program</a></i></b>. It seemed worth a shot.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGLxQZwDmJRamnKD2GZMf6o1fDZUXX2rkDJMQ6vo9Gab6p4G52lfvMZJxNk11Qp7-KZqt2KHRu6U8qQUjf_x5oRjCWq57zmjmzhNWZ9phudG0tkCLB7VXXRwTk_LqPCRjb1M2AKrR0PQ/s1600/earn+that+body.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Earn that Body" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGLxQZwDmJRamnKD2GZMf6o1fDZUXX2rkDJMQ6vo9Gab6p4G52lfvMZJxNk11Qp7-KZqt2KHRu6U8qQUjf_x5oRjCWq57zmjmzhNWZ9phudG0tkCLB7VXXRwTk_LqPCRjb1M2AKrR0PQ/s1600/earn+that+body.jpg" title="Earn that Body" /></a></div>
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I was nervous heading into it, not really knowing how restrictive or hard it would be. I've tried countless programs before, only to completely fall off the wagon afterwards. That's totally my MO. But I had a different determination heading into this, and was pleasantly surprised as I went through the program. It was realistic. It made sense. It wasn't so restrictive that I couldn't find a way to make permanent changes. It was as simple as this- Real Food. Real Work. Real Results. There is no special food to buy, no drink powders or pills to take. Just good old regular food! The biggest challenge for me was no alcohol for two weeks. I didn't think I would be able to survive, but I honestly believe this one was a game changer for me. I'm now a "alcohol on the weekend only" person, and my life hasn't changed for the worse because of it.<br />
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So I did the work. I feel like I gave at least 95% for the entire 30 days, and my results are plentiful:<br />
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1- I've never slept better in my life. Before, I used to maybe get 5-6 hours or restless sleep, and now I'm getting 7.5-8 if I go to bed early enough.<br />
2- My skin looks amazing. I think that eating more fruits and vegetables, with hardly any processed food, had made a tremendous difference. I also drink a ridiculous amount of water.<br />
3- I feel amazing. I might be tired after a long run, but overall I have great energy and feel....healthy!<br />
4- I lost 6.5 pounds!! My clothes fit more loosely, and I can see the weight loss in my face for sure.<br />
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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/AVvXsEglPV1Luo1cklj_RuajIEopUHHQ5-r8B2dZo_DVTohyphenhyphenUWRbqy2g6F0Fyrdzvw_qxk9e0y7s_-sWQO-vzakaktVznCRgMpyhU2ZChxir68pJrK91uMehPDfEVgWjg87eXHhq9-iYBgIKtSk/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Before" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPV1Luo1cklj_RuajIEopUHHQ5-r8B2dZo_DVTohyphenhyphenUWRbqy2g6F0Fyrdzvw_qxk9e0y7s_-sWQO-vzakaktVznCRgMpyhU2ZChxir68pJrK91uMehPDfEVgWjg87eXHhq9-iYBgIKtSk/s1600/me.jpg" title="Before" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPVupk_iyr4ysaU3qeyECO0cDG2JV7ONsIzTAexHdsayl3d7qTqQxf9Gafs0xL1SLioV1fNR4dmIJJ3R1-YzQxaPORFxFTpD2E1ZOOHMDCWgvG4PEIhrO9zBMI6AXX5S2jqxAEomzUcRs/s1600/after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: After" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPVupk_iyr4ysaU3qeyECO0cDG2JV7ONsIzTAexHdsayl3d7qTqQxf9Gafs0xL1SLioV1fNR4dmIJJ3R1-YzQxaPORFxFTpD2E1ZOOHMDCWgvG4PEIhrO9zBMI6AXX5S2jqxAEomzUcRs/s1600/after.jpg" title="After" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I still have about 6-8 pounds to go before I reach a weight that I think is healthy and sustainable. To put it in perspective- I weighed nearly as much as my husband just 30 days ago. I'm not ok with that! But I'm doing it slowly, and doing it the right way. I'm continuing to make great choices each day (see <b><i><a href="http://www.thehollandhouse.me/2015/06/weekly-meal-plan-622-26.html" target="_blank">previous post</a></i></b> about meal planning), and I feel like I'm set up for success. They say that weight loss is 80% what you eat, and 20% exercise. While I do work out 5 days a week, I think it was the change in diet that lead to such a successful start for me, and that's what is keeping me motivated to continue making better choices.<br />
<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-88425399150250757692015-06-25T12:55:00.002-05:002015-06-25T12:55:43.370-05:00Weekly Meal Plan 6/22-26Hi friends! I'm here, barely surviving end of quarter at work. While I suffer through a webcast during lunch, I thought I would take a few minutes to share my most recent weekly meal plan. We've actually been doing this for all of June, and it has been a huge success. I'll share more about that next week when work is absolutely dead, and I'm trying hard to look busy at my computer.<br />
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On to the food....<br />
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<b><i><a href="https://www.icloud.com/numbers/AwBuCAESEOel8pPhrYRO-nP0wbQ5YvAaPOJ53X7QuBxJi0tPk1WANn2AwD1l5tHbZFwEgo-AYZ64-qgnvj0iN4nQrSUfyyjbbzom-_LdQNKz6ERwKwMCUCAQEEIGoK422OsbY1o6lmG9qotcQnXyMTbhtwKVsCkmQyWiuS#Meal_Plan_6_22-26" target="_blank">Here is a link</a></i></b> to the actual document that I use to stay organized, but I wanted to include more info about how I actually handle the planning and prep. On Friday morning (or Saturday, depending on my schedule) I'll thumb through <b><i><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/HollandHouseHer/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></i></b> recipes that I've saved and start making a list of the meals I want to make. I try to cook once/eat twice for at least one dinner and one lunch, to limit how many things I buy and how much time I spend in the kitchen. So I keep my eye out for recipes that I can divide into two containers, or that would make for good leftovers.<br />
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Next up is shopping. Lately I have been making a quick stop at Trader Joe's for a few favorite items. I love their Greek yogurt, Verde Sauce, Corn Tortillas, Wheat Bread, and a frozen <b><a href="http://www.traderjoes.com/fearless-flyer/article/924" target="_blank"><i>Multigrain Veggie Mix</i></a></b>. I do the bulk of my shopping at HEB though (either Saturday or Sunday morning). Once I have my meal plan in place, I'll start with prepping and cooking.<br />
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<b>**If I can offer any advice- it would be to start small. </b>Don't try to jump into meal planning all at once- it will be overwhelming. If you can work on one breakfast, one lunch, and one dinner to get a head start on the week, then you'll be in good shape. Once you collect recipes that are easy and that you like, it gets a lot easier to rotate and figure out a schedule that works for you.<br />
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(Keep in mind that I'm cooking for two. Some of the recipes can be modified to make more or less, depending on your needs.)<br />
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<b>Breakfast:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-_Crt9QsHTcNb3YF178Jcgg9EZZPoD6iU7Nh3HAsenCs-px_6P5wUB32FfwJ1dPNFtMi2171WWzCXwZRF9RCaqoej31r4-i6WmPITMMxu6Env71GQ4zN2Xw51vtaNgaNVB3t53I_gmlY/s1600/Breakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Weekly Meal Prep- Breakfast" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-_Crt9QsHTcNb3YF178Jcgg9EZZPoD6iU7Nh3HAsenCs-px_6P5wUB32FfwJ1dPNFtMi2171WWzCXwZRF9RCaqoej31r4-i6WmPITMMxu6Env71GQ4zN2Xw51vtaNgaNVB3t53I_gmlY/s1600/Breakfast.jpg" title="Weekly Meal Prep- Breakfast" /></a></div>
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<i><b><a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/overnight-blueberry-almond-oats/" target="_blank">Overnight Blueberry Almond Oats</a></b> </i>(I made 4 containers worth on Sunday)<br />
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<b>Egg Muffins</b> (This is enough to make 12-14 muffins, depending on how many veggies you add)<br />
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1/2 small carton organic Egg Whites<br />
6 free-range eggs<br />
1 cup Greek yogurt (I use 2%, but you can use non-fat too)<br />
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2 cups spinach, chopped<br />
2-3 roasted red peppers (I use ones in a jar)<br />
1/2 small log goat cheese, crumbled<br />
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1) Line a cupcake pan with foil cupcake liners. Set oven to 350.<br />
2) Mix the first three ingredients into a small bowl.<br />
3) Combine veggies only into a separate bowl (or just go straight from the cutting board)<br />
4) Fill cups half full with egg mix. Then top with veggies.<br />
5) Add remaining egg mix to 3/4 full, and then sprinkle with goat cheese.<br />
6) Bake for 20-25 min, until the muffins no longer "jiggle" in the middle.<br />
7) Let cool completely, and then store in an airtight container.<br />
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**Please note that you can use any veggies you want.<br />
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<b>Lunch:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir_2PvyMbcoxdwMsy_6eZ-u-v7wANPthqKROXwoFF_Ox6wua4Mnf16glmTwznLrLn6iCBxZxW_2K1JvOwnBqC7BMfDd82ua6ZUGyA_gGQjH1CuBnggZUGGL9ntvPGe_aQrWWJ3AxLUA9A/s1600/Lunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Weekly Meal Planning- Lunch" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir_2PvyMbcoxdwMsy_6eZ-u-v7wANPthqKROXwoFF_Ox6wua4Mnf16glmTwznLrLn6iCBxZxW_2K1JvOwnBqC7BMfDd82ua6ZUGyA_gGQjH1CuBnggZUGGL9ntvPGe_aQrWWJ3AxLUA9A/s1600/Lunch.jpg" title="Weekly Meal Planning- Lunch" /></a></div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/vegetarian-chickpea-sandwich-filling/detail.aspx" target="_blank">Vegetarian Chickpea Spread</a>, </i>makes about 6 servings<i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>(I subbed Greek yogurt for mayo, and served it on wheat bread with spinach and tomato)<br />
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<b>Butternut Squash and Broccoli Chicken Pasta, </b>makes 4-6 servings<b> </b>(I tried to copycat one of my favorite Snap Kitchen meals)<br />
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2 chicken breasts, cooked and finely diced<br />
1 bag whole wheat pasta, cooked (I like to use fun shapes like bowtie or fusilli)<br />
2 cups cubed Butternut Squash, roasted (I buy it already cut at Trader Joes)<br />
2 cups broccoli, roasted<br />
1/2 small log of goat cheese, crumble<br />
1/2 walnuts, chopped<br />
2 Tbs olive oil<br />
2 Tbs balsamic vinegar<br />
chopped basil to taste<br />
nutmeg to taste<br />
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**There is a lot of prep to put this dish together, so spread it out if needed. Roast your veggies together. Cook pasta and chicken at the same time. When all ingredients are ready to go, toss the pasta with oil, vinegar and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Then portion out pasta into your containers, add chicken, veggies, and then top with goat cheese, walnuts and chopped basil. It will keep for up to 4 days.<br />
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<b>Dinner:</b><br />
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<b><i><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2013/04/easiest-crock-pot-salsa-verde-chicken.html" target="_blank">Crockpot Verde Chicken</a></i></b>, makes 2 servings (I use 2 skinless, boneless, organic chicken breasts for this, and the Trader Joe's Verde Sauce. We shred the chicken and serve on corn tortillas with a small scoop of greek yogurt, and sautéed zucchini on the side)<br />
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<b>Sautéed Zucchini </b><br />
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1-2 zucchinis, cut in half lengthwise and then sliced<br />
1 Tbs olive oil<br />
1 Tbs red wine vinegar<br />
red pepper flakes to taste<br />
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1) Heat olive oil in a sauté pan. Add zucchini and stir to coat. Once they have started to cook through (2-4 minutes is good), add a few splashes of red wine vinegar, and a dash of red pepper flakes.<br />
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<b><i><a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/black-bean-and-quinoa-enchilada-bake/" target="_blank">Black Bean and Quinoa Enchilada Bake</a></i></b>, makes 8 servings (This is hands down one of our favorite dinners, and makes for excellent leftovers the next day. I divide the whole recipe into 2 square foil containers so that I can bake them on two different nights. Makes it so easy to come home from work, throw it into the oven for 30 minutes, and then sit down to eat.)<br />
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<b>Baked Chicken with Trader Joe's Frozen MultiGrain Veggie Mix</b>, makes 2 servings (Pretty self explanatory. We bake or grill two chicken breasts lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt and pepper. Serve the veggie mix on the side. Not exciting, but it gets the job done.)<br />
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If you've never tried to meal plan/prep before, I hope that some of this helps. I'd love to know if you try any of these and if it helps make your week a little easier. I realize it will take up a few hours over the weekend, but I'd much rather do that than get home after work and stress about how to get a decent meal on the table. Feel free to share your feedback or questions in the comments section!<br />
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<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-90456513623297320562015-06-10T13:05:00.002-05:002015-06-10T13:05:45.122-05:00DenaliI'm taking a short break from my blogging break to share a video with you that has absolutely touched my heart. WARNING: If you have even half a heart, you will likely bawl your eyes out while watching. You might want to save this until you're in the comfort of your own home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHEuq-bT-SN9OWB8QDOg7LjHkUT1fO1LqxE9BG3CcyUDvxCb00qYH1NsqcCyyeFed00rsOLh7o7JOIUeiAo4YN5lo5u3REdUlw2LcqW9rLuKiHkq0agrpayio9J5DpbeQegnBVZtm650/s1600/denali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHEuq-bT-SN9OWB8QDOg7LjHkUT1fO1LqxE9BG3CcyUDvxCb00qYH1NsqcCyyeFed00rsOLh7o7JOIUeiAo4YN5lo5u3REdUlw2LcqW9rLuKiHkq0agrpayio9J5DpbeQegnBVZtm650/s1600/denali.jpg" /></a></div>
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A little bit of background on the video- <b><a href="http://benmoon.com/" target="_blank">Ben Moon</a></b> is an incredibly talented photographer/cinematographer, free spirit, outdoorsman, and dog lover. (Do yourself a favor and browse all of the gorgeous pictures on his website.) He and his equally talented friends put together this exquisitely beautiful video in remembrance of his beloved dog Denali. Denali was such a handsome dog, that he even got to model in Patagonia ads! What a life he led. The video ended up winning two awards at the 5Point Film Festival, and was an official selection for MountainFilm 2015. So yes, it's really that good!<br />
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If you have read our blog for any amount of time, you know that we're crazy about our small herd of animals (and I haven't even shared our latest foster with you- told y'all we've been busy lately!) Our foster fail Brees is absolutely my baby, and all I could think about while watching this is how it we feel when her time comes (hopefully many, many years from now). It may sound weird, but this video just made me feel so deeply. It's hard to describe.<br />
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So watch it. Please. And feel free to come back and let me know what you think. Even if it's just to share a sentiment about your own fur baby. I love hearing them!<br />
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<b><a href="http://benmoon.com/video/6" target="_blank">Denali</a></b></div>
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**If you love the song at the end as much as I did, it's called "It's Only" by Odesza. Totally worth the download.</div>
Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-65934541434832932232015-04-17T11:41:00.000-05:002015-04-17T11:41:12.795-05:00Taking a breakIt's probably obvious that I've already started a break from blogging based on how little I've been posting this year. But I feel like I need to officially say it. Life has just been way too busy, and I hate feeling the pressure of coming up with a well thought out blog post. We've been having a lot of fun lately, but trying to balance work, Sweet Elise, time with Hank and home projects (in no particular order) means that blogging just isn't going to happen right now.<br />
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If you want to stay tuned on our daily lives, please feel free to follow me on Instagram. You can see endless pictures of our animals and other fun things at @thehollandhouseher. You can also see pictures of all the sweets I make at @sweetelise_atx. It's so much easier to post a picture and few sentences than hammering out a blog post, and I love to interact with others on Instagram. So don't be shy!<br />
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There's still a lot to say (hello, fertility journey) that I hope to revisit again, but I don't have the capacity to give it the attention it needs. So keep me in your Bloglovin' feed if you don't mind. I promise I'll be back!Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-24195695246600051302015-03-22T19:31:00.000-05:002015-03-22T19:31:41.019-05:00A Sunday in GeorgetownA few weekends ago, we drove north to Georgetown to see a friend who was performing in "Anything Goes" at the <b><a href="http://www.georgetownpalace.com/" target="_blank">Georgetown Palace Theatre</a></b>. The theatre is on the square, so we wanted to get there early so we would have plenty of time to eat lunch and walk around. I don't know that I have ever spent any time in Georgetown, but I can say we'll be back as soon as possible.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_J0rvNw-DIE35FeE3nK2ka8D_0Si4AB5HFV2oVHSK0QctOwnMr3DeziRjIIG9Ti__DcJal50scG3oYKwZxo86HjJq6KIumI6XlCrqje6sAISgisGrprriqHz7pxcdsWKCeL9t1TVAFo8/s1600/Palace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Georgetown Palace Theatre" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_J0rvNw-DIE35FeE3nK2ka8D_0Si4AB5HFV2oVHSK0QctOwnMr3DeziRjIIG9Ti__DcJal50scG3oYKwZxo86HjJq6KIumI6XlCrqje6sAISgisGrprriqHz7pxcdsWKCeL9t1TVAFo8/s1600/Palace.jpg" title="Georgetown Palace Theatre" /></a></div>
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Not only were there several great restaurants to choose from, but there were adorable shops and the neatest market that had fresh local produce and a Texas craft beer section. We ate lunch at <b><a href="http://www.wildfiretexas.com/" target="_blank">Wildfire</a></b>, which is housed in a historical building right next to the theatre. We learned the hard way that it's always good to make reservations, but we lucked out by getting a high top table in the bar area. We had a great lunch with really nice service! We'd go back again, but would try other restaurants on the square first.<br />
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You can't visit Georgetown without going to these two places:<br />
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<b><a href="http://divageorgetown.com/" target="_blank">Diva Design Studio</a></b>- this rivals any home decorating store that you would find in Austin. I saw some of the prettiest (and unique) lighting fixtures, along with this headboard that I absolutely fell in love with.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjctzXGP4teLjuYjHpaTcM7fw7M7dn5YvdyeBrItByQHvWSV_1oIpUNaXmpwuM8BtaWbamPXUa-Lyw9bXUKNQArxm5kmU6t2U3WsdbHa1bMOHGwT4CCaft7WaDngYfVK6p-uJsM0WdGLFQ/s1600/headboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Diva Design Studio" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjctzXGP4teLjuYjHpaTcM7fw7M7dn5YvdyeBrItByQHvWSV_1oIpUNaXmpwuM8BtaWbamPXUa-Lyw9bXUKNQArxm5kmU6t2U3WsdbHa1bMOHGwT4CCaft7WaDngYfVK6p-uJsM0WdGLFQ/s1600/headboard.jpg" title="Diva Design Studio" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.themonumentcafe.com/" target="_blank">The Monument Cafe & Market</a></b>- not technically on the square, it's just two blocks over and well worth the extra steps. They grow their own produce on the property, and the market just can't be missed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMI0-AecSM8Re-04Ia0UjGWH3t2jNThKrpmCkNEczhXESZooq_i_evfJF11E1zCjctSo0A9MBH_UBw-HiQhlnfAR-JgjyfGpsltmu-05G7BipcIpiHqZwNidqyPxSrYMT0YsQ-IRXLxvo/s1600/monument.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Monument Cafe & Market" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMI0-AecSM8Re-04Ia0UjGWH3t2jNThKrpmCkNEczhXESZooq_i_evfJF11E1zCjctSo0A9MBH_UBw-HiQhlnfAR-JgjyfGpsltmu-05G7BipcIpiHqZwNidqyPxSrYMT0YsQ-IRXLxvo/s1600/monument.JPG" title="Monument Cafe & Market" /></a></div>
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The show itself was really impressive. I'm not really big on musicals, but actually enjoyed the entire production. While the remaining weekend is already sold out, I highly recommend taking a day trip to Georgetown if you're looking for something a little different to do.Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-91495555498714795992015-03-09T11:53:00.000-05:002015-03-09T11:53:14.138-05:00Amplify Austin ResultsAnother year, another tremendous success for the fundraising extravaganza that is <b><a href="https://amplifyatx.ilivehereigivehere.org/" target="_blank">Amplify Austin</a></b>. The overall goal was to raise $7 million for over 500 area non-profits, and when the clock stopped at 6pm on Friday, the total was at $7,715,391.32. That is just amazing! What's even more amazing is that total was raised by just over 25,000 unique donors. Imagine what we could do if even more people participated in this day of giving?<br />
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I set a goal to raise $1,000 for <b><a href="http://www.wagshopeandhealing.org/" target="_blank">Wags, Hope and Healing</a></b>. I'll be honest- I thought it was a big stretch. I would have been happy with just $500. But friends and family pulled through, helping me raise $1,055. This was the first year for Wags to participate, and they were hoping for anything between $2,000-$5,000. They ended up raising a total of $8300!! That is a huge gift for them. With this money, they will be able to do the following:<br />
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6 orthopedic surgeries<br />
40 spay/neuter surgeries<br />
heart worm treatment for 6 dogs<br />
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More than anything, it means that they can provide care for animals without having to stress or shuffle funds around. It also brought attention to their small rescue, and helped spread the word about the amazing work that they do. A huge thank you to everyone who participated in this awesome event.<br />
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<b>"Only by giving are you able to receive more than you already have."</b></div>
Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-79798333157677471962015-03-02T16:26:00.000-06:002015-03-02T16:26:14.111-06:00Amplify Austin: Support Wags, Hope and HealingMarch 5th-6th kicks off the 3rd year for the <b><a href="https://amplifyatx.ilivehereigivehere.org/content/whatsAmplify" target="_blank">"I Live Here, I Give Here"</a></b> fundraising campaign hosted by Amplify Austin. Over $8.5 million has been raised for local charities, and this year over 500 non-profits will benefit from the city's generosity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzOyKMGraG3hHyOUq-IbfrRfN0ggOvylcq5J9zid79qFAK5KzGgNrNS12sLbzckitfeJMAmnws2rSb8NLnhKFAyqwhKQOxVWlc3-SQLzVRBSZBZbjkfpIrFPZMGGnerbjRGhkdzP0o9Q/s1600/logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzOyKMGraG3hHyOUq-IbfrRfN0ggOvylcq5J9zid79qFAK5KzGgNrNS12sLbzckitfeJMAmnws2rSb8NLnhKFAyqwhKQOxVWlc3-SQLzVRBSZBZbjkfpIrFPZMGGnerbjRGhkdzP0o9Q/s1600/logo.png" /></a></div>
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I have participated since its inception, donating to a variety of local non-profits that all have meaning to me. This year, I am especially excited to be hosting my very own fundraising page in support of one of our favorite animal rescue groups, <b><a href="http://www.wagshopeandhealing.org/" target="_blank">Wags, Hope and Healing</a></b>. We first learned about this amazing mother/daughter rescue duo through good friends and neighbors, and began to follow their stories and learn more about their operation. About 4 months ago, we committed to being monthly donors for their Circle of Chance program, donating specifically towards medical funds.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeCMbwIhF-q4UjdHDpCqoaaClCCPXlVMGRBx3ZALSTjTWtQjUDqs9XGlszEoOnFE07Xp4fmsFwraafYOg0kxpxoE7npoB1V5e7J57QI0vi021TqMgvmUgWmYsD8TUj26SEQFhKxzrW-m4/s1600/dogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Amplify Austin: Wags, Hope and Healing" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeCMbwIhF-q4UjdHDpCqoaaClCCPXlVMGRBx3ZALSTjTWtQjUDqs9XGlszEoOnFE07Xp4fmsFwraafYOg0kxpxoE7npoB1V5e7J57QI0vi021TqMgvmUgWmYsD8TUj26SEQFhKxzrW-m4/s1600/dogs.jpg" height="198" title="Wags, Hope and Healing" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Wags, Hope and Healing mission is to save neglected, abused and abandoned dogs that would otherwise never make it out of a shelter alive. They provide medical treatment, rehabilitation, and careful consideration when finding permanent homes. Some dogs are pulled off the street, and others are saved from area kill shelters where they would likely be euthanized due to their medical needs. Because Wags is committed to helping these special cases, they often face medical bills ranging from $2,000-$5,000 a month.<br />
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Anyone who knows me knows that I have a bleeding heart for animals. Every cat that has ever been a part of our family was saved from the streets. My very first dog as an adult was rescued from an irresponsible dog owner who did not have their pet spayed. I've volunteered hundreds of hours at the city shelter, have fostered multiple dogs, and even had a foster fail. To say that Hank and I are passionate about animals would be an understatement. Animal rescue is a cause that I would give just about anything to.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4CCeht8GMc7CIf_Mkp1OcZg957PJqX9jDPG_ahoC1NWr3OPXmT0OiNeGXBNtPo4M5jq8idaVkSgNXlG4pgt-dULL8dZsI6Gvucxa81W3Pc_z6BSjd-GdaxNpVdDa23YVf3JmptHaO0A/s1600/pets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Our Fur Babies" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4CCeht8GMc7CIf_Mkp1OcZg957PJqX9jDPG_ahoC1NWr3OPXmT0OiNeGXBNtPo4M5jq8idaVkSgNXlG4pgt-dULL8dZsI6Gvucxa81W3Pc_z6BSjd-GdaxNpVdDa23YVf3JmptHaO0A/s1600/pets.jpg" title="Our fur babies" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our fur babies</td></tr>
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My goal is to raise $1000 for Wags, Hope and Healing. I will personally match donations up to $200, and will have my employer match my donation as well. If you share my love for animal rescue, I ask that you find it in your heart to donate any amount that you are able to. If it means passing up a few Starbucks trips in order to make a $25 donation, then you will have enabled one dog to get a microchip. If you forgo a shopping trip this weekend and donate $100 instead, then you have paid for medication to cover mange, heart worm prevention, or a host of other ailments. Every dollar counts, and I hope that you'll join me in showing the love for any Austin non-profit who provides services that make our community a better place.<br />
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<b>You can find my fundraising page here: <a href="https://amplifyatx.ilivehereigivehere.org/amyholland" target="_blank">Amplify Austin</a></b></div>
Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-9269544249372727532015-02-26T20:21:00.000-06:002015-02-26T20:21:07.672-06:00Austin Pets Alive 4th Anniversary No-Kill PartyThis past Sunday night Hank and I attended the 4th Annual Austin Pets Alive "<b><a href="http://www.austinpetsalive.org/events/no-kill-anniversary-party/" target="_blank">No-Kill Anniversary Party</a></b>", held at <b><a href="http://www.palmdoor.com/" target="_blank">The Palm Door</a></b> in downtown Austin. Animal welfare is obviously a cause that is near and dear to our heart, so we're more than happy to support it. And Sweet Elise also donated desserts for the second year in a row, so we almost *had* to go. I thought it would be hard to top <b><a href="http://www.thehollandhouse.me/2014/02/austin-no-kill-3rd-anniversary-party.html" target="_blank">last year's party</a></b>, but somehow they were able to do so.<br />
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Food was provided courtesy of <b><a href="http://www.pinkavocadocatering.com/" target="_blank">Pink Avocado Catering</a></b>, and the vegetarian buffet were delicious. My favorite might have been the macaroni and cheese cupcakes, but everything was so tasty.<br />
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(Pictures were taken by <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Angela-Lozano-Photography/124334887587186" target="_blank">Angela Lozano Photography</a></b>, who also donated her time and talent for the event.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPXJEvOtZX2sKbvd59qfiNli1BMHdAaKjLqDf5JuA2AH47S1PbOzm0cofegc89CcS-7qv78CAl8YGvQ2Y2OAdPmGI8OQ0pZsT9MNTjNpxrzYZ7PplwZdwxR4lo2_zMpSVjL8WPef_imI/s1600/APA+Food+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: APA Food Buffet" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPXJEvOtZX2sKbvd59qfiNli1BMHdAaKjLqDf5JuA2AH47S1PbOzm0cofegc89CcS-7qv78CAl8YGvQ2Y2OAdPmGI8OQ0pZsT9MNTjNpxrzYZ7PplwZdwxR4lo2_zMpSVjL8WPef_imI/s1600/APA+Food+Collage.jpg" title="APA Food Buffet" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Food and dessert buffet</td></tr>
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Along with great music entertainment (the legendary Dale Watson played), there was a silent auction, a photo booth, and on-site screen printing for shirts. We bought shirts last year, and this year it was even more special to pick out colors and what we wanted printed on them. Many thanks to <b><a href="http://www.finesoutherngentlemen.com/" target="_blank">Fine Southern Gentleman</a></b> for providing their services for the evening. We love our shirts!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKihk4SaU61M1Hcf9iIMnnBZKxDC564wa3EfOfujUOVwM0fBGFPvn1S8t8N4DRk9VHONjCRqsYF7NB7rjlbCYHkIrGiYUqPdFSEsaEGPzywcPGBWNUKel7UVOgY_SLOySIJdUYYK__dAQ/s1600/Screen+Printing+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="The Holland House: Fine Southern Gentleman" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKihk4SaU61M1Hcf9iIMnnBZKxDC564wa3EfOfujUOVwM0fBGFPvn1S8t8N4DRk9VHONjCRqsYF7NB7rjlbCYHkIrGiYUqPdFSEsaEGPzywcPGBWNUKel7UVOgY_SLOySIJdUYYK__dAQ/s1600/Screen+Printing+Collage.jpg" title="Fine Southern Gentleman" /></a></div>
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Did I mention a photo booth? Did I mention that there were LIVE PUPPIES at the photo booth?! It might have been my favorite part of the evening. It was all I could do not to stuff all the puppies under my sweater so that I could take them home with me. I'm sure they have all been adopted by now, as they were just so freaking cute. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSg6oDHCyqB-D7x2c2JRpoujLjy9-P9h3B-j287SNAZg7Dw1lDjqR-mlugumz1RcvovcsnEWceqwskiqVoe-KNA9SNOi21CD8C-atuAwH2CG3zfH8CQdvJvKJ3DaLTID0TQ16leMo7S4/s1600/Butter+Half.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMKuzdPELqiboe2UBLz0MXw-V5g_WjX0S-w2JGtXjz2eTxvSGY-wx0bNwUZ3ikexTFByEX4nPFR5EwNomvSW8QcLEU4SwFNcagYVW6vv_qPzp5JUQI-ccre2jjcU9mYzzjsMYY7pgkzg/s1600/Puppy+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Puppies" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMKuzdPELqiboe2UBLz0MXw-V5g_WjX0S-w2JGtXjz2eTxvSGY-wx0bNwUZ3ikexTFByEX4nPFR5EwNomvSW8QcLEU4SwFNcagYVW6vv_qPzp5JUQI-ccre2jjcU9mYzzjsMYY7pgkzg/s1600/Puppy+Collage.jpg" title="Puppies" /></a><img alt="The Holland House: Photo Booth" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSg6oDHCyqB-D7x2c2JRpoujLjy9-P9h3B-j287SNAZg7Dw1lDjqR-mlugumz1RcvovcsnEWceqwskiqVoe-KNA9SNOi21CD8C-atuAwH2CG3zfH8CQdvJvKJ3DaLTID0TQ16leMo7S4/s1600/Butter+Half.JPG" title="Photo Booth" /></div>
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We called it an early night, as we both had to work the next day. But I'm hoping that APA was able to raise the funds needed to continue the great work they do to keep Austin a "No Kill" city. It seriously takes a village to make it happen, and I'm so glad this organization plays such a big part in saving so many lives. </div>
Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-22719895834658504142015-02-09T16:43:00.001-06:002015-02-09T16:43:41.516-06:00Out & About: Hill Country Golf and GuitarOn Saturday we had our family birthday celebration for Hank and my sister Holly. My mom came up with the brilliant idea to do something a little different. She wanted to do something that the little kids could be a part of, and that the big kids would enjoy too. Luckily, <b><a href="http://golfandguitar.com/" target="_blank">Hill Country Golf & Guitar</a></b> opened just a few miles from their house just a few months ago. The weather was absolutely amazing too, making it the best day ever for a family outing.<br />
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The 18-hole course is spread out on a beautiful piece of land, and I believe they are about to start on a second course. We had to wait about 30 minutes, and I have no doubt that the place will remain packed through most of the spring and summer. Most of the holes were a par-3, but the water feature on hole 10 got the best of a few of us (note the picture of my brother fishing balls out of the pond).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBUuvVC3tKeR-zLIqnGTf_OIl3ItBb-in5iQm3L2KQQnw5vg2CsR-KvcZwMX_5J7BNLhZaJRE_98Q-SPwZTf4vld_eymkbvM-ojNI4vMZW1PEhJbByP507wsZQ5JPHEEhcHCEItFd0Us/s1600/Course+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Hill Country Gold & Guitar" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBUuvVC3tKeR-zLIqnGTf_OIl3ItBb-in5iQm3L2KQQnw5vg2CsR-KvcZwMX_5J7BNLhZaJRE_98Q-SPwZTf4vld_eymkbvM-ojNI4vMZW1PEhJbByP507wsZQ5JPHEEhcHCEItFd0Us/s1600/Course+Collage.jpg" title="Hill Country Gold & Guitar" /></a></div>
The course has a stage built right in the middle of it, and there will be live bands playing on the weekend soon. The park is mostly music-themed, including the guitar pick hole signs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMel62V8wKIRndGlQwmuyNIgBIzEom0vnv-OeXwumOWqE5zmbyVFgrzikqJuRE_bA9LsBhMB90561C4T4RuqYGzIKkxKKlCtlOzYgco4pJ4XbkudNJ0aaKTnkp-LGptyASNTH9hsUT5c/s1600/Golf+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Family Birthday Celebration" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMel62V8wKIRndGlQwmuyNIgBIzEom0vnv-OeXwumOWqE5zmbyVFgrzikqJuRE_bA9LsBhMB90561C4T4RuqYGzIKkxKKlCtlOzYgco4pJ4XbkudNJ0aaKTnkp-LGptyASNTH9hsUT5c/s1600/Golf+Collage.jpg" title="Family Birthday Celebration" /></a></div>
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Blair and Georgia had an absolute blast. Blair got a plastic club (thank goodness) and it was all we could do to keep him contained on each hole. This picture of him charging down the green just cracks me up.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwd1EYN0bI29TEnu1eNgXmkQDxVl2RCeaGUj52lLJlxhDjINWzvbCWKJ-hmasY1piSW740_q1pmya5Pg-c8rOQhFfoPvOM56ZeFsRGEn275sRdNHNdZwZiVO_pmJqI9WBYiqRWJObL9P0/s1600/blair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Blair" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwd1EYN0bI29TEnu1eNgXmkQDxVl2RCeaGUj52lLJlxhDjINWzvbCWKJ-hmasY1piSW740_q1pmya5Pg-c8rOQhFfoPvOM56ZeFsRGEn275sRdNHNdZwZiVO_pmJqI9WBYiqRWJObL9P0/s1600/blair.jpg" title="Blair" /></a></div>
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Georgia was a little more serious about her game, and was working hard to score some major style points. It's still hard for me to believe that she is 5 (plus a few months). They grow up way too fast!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_lKgF6IgN9nhuwwtASSnkaKh38En1X-XoXIDGGb48_pIPTJnYD5gAET4a-omkh6EqPhppSENGRFgIdAs36WZ0vBUB9jeAdBOiAHy8aU_aNgGtr_hasGEle3PzFw5_a4MoFpCFt0RCWEs/s1600/Georgia+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Georgia" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_lKgF6IgN9nhuwwtASSnkaKh38En1X-XoXIDGGb48_pIPTJnYD5gAET4a-omkh6EqPhppSENGRFgIdAs36WZ0vBUB9jeAdBOiAHy8aU_aNgGtr_hasGEle3PzFw5_a4MoFpCFt0RCWEs/s1600/Georgia+Collage.jpg" title="Georgia" /></a></div>
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In true birthday boy fashion, Hank ended up winning the entire round. Here he is practicing his swing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuMmPEzP7DLMdWcFlhGdZXTdex9k8UVhDHoV1OrXl-Wx-jK6MJ17e8-hJ3Lj3NeK9wkB0zFCiAe7-fRIwM7gTPmEYqi_E0G5aUIWOKZhpoDg35am2Qs0ig02ulv8Fhr2dnkKFnssXlqk/s1600/hank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Hank" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuMmPEzP7DLMdWcFlhGdZXTdex9k8UVhDHoV1OrXl-Wx-jK6MJ17e8-hJ3Lj3NeK9wkB0zFCiAe7-fRIwM7gTPmEYqi_E0G5aUIWOKZhpoDg35am2Qs0ig02ulv8Fhr2dnkKFnssXlqk/s1600/hank.jpg" title="Hank" /></a></div>
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I somehow missed a good shot of Blake and Meredith, but here are some fun family pics before we headed inside for an amazing dinner.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizgTkyQ87B3g8Tz7QkuSEt_7OxNGrivefP2F3Vd4L1HdmlNQIIxYYWG2CVqNtSNb1ssDTqJJgy_O36SJRoawVy-6M778iZD0MYYy00eCunLnHaaI1Sz3V9K_lvGurIajnOlklmB7EgncE/s1600/Family+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Family Pics" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizgTkyQ87B3g8Tz7QkuSEt_7OxNGrivefP2F3Vd4L1HdmlNQIIxYYWG2CVqNtSNb1ssDTqJJgy_O36SJRoawVy-6M778iZD0MYYy00eCunLnHaaI1Sz3V9K_lvGurIajnOlklmB7EgncE/s1600/Family+Collage.jpg" title="Family Pics" /></a></div>
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Speaking of dinner, the food was really good! Lots of fried stuff and burgers, so not really the healthiest of dinner choices. But all of the ingredients were great quality, and I loved the sweet bun on my hamburger. The french fries with homemade aioli was a little bit of wonderful too!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaZyjXpx0kymho5BO25Zpl95fYHX14D6VLeIt9-cJwga5yzz5F5pwFIWsNbMwy9UaPm9O-CFkolFzELqTHbshIJujZAGHbwo8wxzVeM_sSkaTWHdotSA6bgOSMKpVSAUPTrOrPCf-fqE/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Hill Country Golf & Guitar" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaZyjXpx0kymho5BO25Zpl95fYHX14D6VLeIt9-cJwga5yzz5F5pwFIWsNbMwy9UaPm9O-CFkolFzELqTHbshIJujZAGHbwo8wxzVeM_sSkaTWHdotSA6bgOSMKpVSAUPTrOrPCf-fqE/s1600/burger.jpg" title="Hill Country Golf & Guitar" /></a></div>
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If you are looking for a fun date or family activity, this place can accommodate all. There was even a "treehouse" with arcade games for the kids. My whole family had a blast, and I'm looking forward to going back again soon. I think it will be so fun to listen to a band play while swinging through a round of putt putt golf. Such a clever concept!</div>
<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-8645093805373171442015-01-30T14:57:00.002-06:002015-01-30T14:57:13.502-06:00NoLa 2015, A 40th Birthday Celebration<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>**This post took two weeks to write. Sorry!**</i></div>
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Lordy, I can't believe my husband is 40! Even worse is that I'll join the club in 11 short months. We had wanted to celebrate by traveling somewhere fun, and New Orleans was the perfect destination. Easy to get to, wouldn't require a car, and there would be endless great food/drink options.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYL94Gg5vQWOSWk1sTPOayk66IWSkSCbo7pg9IdUx3pglb4U6edZ6jHOiGc3Y1PI_EAdfqJtKFjbd-_0tzroh1Ke5WYk_G7JKHFv7AL35qxghp_Z3RqMr2JyI7HBZ-7gS74Mtr0eqnh3o/s1600/NoLa+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: NoLa" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYL94Gg5vQWOSWk1sTPOayk66IWSkSCbo7pg9IdUx3pglb4U6edZ6jHOiGc3Y1PI_EAdfqJtKFjbd-_0tzroh1Ke5WYk_G7JKHFv7AL35qxghp_Z3RqMr2JyI7HBZ-7gS74Mtr0eqnh3o/s1600/NoLa+Collage.jpg" title="NoLa" /></a></div>
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Everyone should experience New Orleans at some point in their life. It's such a unique, colorful, noisy city filled with a never ending sense of revelry. It can be overwhelming and exhausting, but we loved every minute of our trip.<br />
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To spare you a lengthy recap, I'll just highlight some of our favorite things, and what I consider to be "Must-Dos" should you visit NoLa.<br />
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<b>Food:</b><br />
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No trip to New Orleans is complete without at least one stop at <b><a href="http://cafedumonde.com/" target="_blank">Cafe du Monde</a></b> for some hot beignets and coffee. We actually made it twice. The line is long on the weekend, so try to go first thing in the morning if you can. There's a huge patio, and the people watching is spectacular. If you're lucky, you'll be serenaded by a street musician.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauVAQo-uYSlYB0PyIJl8edmev1-AkR6uasS_NBHUUKtI1BnyZ4i1OuDkIZsVIsOA-LF-31YbOrdTE-9NmTfyYlMAfjNfCywTltiSXKYq7RhtRKCOqAQtS4zw0HP_YrSgMaQHVHt12mxI/s1600/beignets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Beignets at Cafe du Monde" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauVAQo-uYSlYB0PyIJl8edmev1-AkR6uasS_NBHUUKtI1BnyZ4i1OuDkIZsVIsOA-LF-31YbOrdTE-9NmTfyYlMAfjNfCywTltiSXKYq7RhtRKCOqAQtS4zw0HP_YrSgMaQHVHt12mxI/s1600/beignets.jpg" title="Beignets at Cafe du Monde" /></a></div>
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We tried to venture away from the French Quarter for most of our dinners, and enjoyed great meals in two different neighborhoods. In the Warehouse District, we celebrated Hank's birthday with an incredible dinner at the James Beard Award winning <b><a href="http://www.pecherestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Peche Seafood Grill</a></b>. While the whole meal was spectacular, it's going to sound weird that the fried bread appetizer was one of the most memorable parts. Don't knock it til you try it! We also went to the opposite side of the Quarter to the Bywater section, and had a great patio dinner at a neighborhood restaurant called <b><a href="http://oxalisbywater.com/" target="_blank">Oxalis</a></b>.<br />
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Oysters! I don't eat them, but figured I should at least try them while visiting a city that helped make them famous. We ate an early dinner at <b><a href="http://www.acmeoyster.com/" target="_blank">Acme Oyster House</a></b>, and lucked out with a seat at the bar where we could watch the guys shucking the oysters. I knew I wouldn't be able to stomach a raw oyster, so I opted for the Chargrilled version topped with parmesan and an herb butter sauce. To die for!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2-blQUwBsPBoJ84dx7Koek2Epk6olNd_1Mqe0C9PpKRyZESUwdmQkfNYYy0xejJZP6NgKL7So0cNijFMIYmJZx6WKZyVeGdM8jfKQtbSfrQZo_dJDdKFyuxfa_I7AjKYu7xKQI9Fc9nU/s1600/shucker.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Acme Oyster House" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2-blQUwBsPBoJ84dx7Koek2Epk6olNd_1Mqe0C9PpKRyZESUwdmQkfNYYy0xejJZP6NgKL7So0cNijFMIYmJZx6WKZyVeGdM8jfKQtbSfrQZo_dJDdKFyuxfa_I7AjKYu7xKQI9Fc9nU/s1600/shucker.JPG" title="Acme Oyster House" /></a></div>
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Both lunches were in the gorgeous Garden District. We had a late lunch at <b><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-camellia-grill-new-orleans" target="_blank">Camelia Grill</a></b>, an old school diner that serves up amazing greasy burgers and shakes (and also breakfast all day). This spot is extra special, because my grandparents used to eat here on date night decades ago when my Papa was a professor at Tulane. Our last meal was at a corner sandwich spot that came highly recommended via Yelp. <b><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-grocery-new-orleans" target="_blank">The Grocery</a></b> is not really a grocery at all, but they do serve up some mean pressed sandwiches. I went with the Pressed Creole Reuben, and Hank had a Muffuletta, and both were amazing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVcGsmhE1F342BW1gN36b3q5c1KfMDPKuRobKNcc-f3KXP9KA9dDQ5W0wdwndIr4nPr-9TSwDr_3hCDCmK1q8pE3jd34xJgt7_rF73bNdBfKnnoErylIscxLhUWx0UHPTXweho10LCs0c/s1600/pressed+sandwich.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Pressed Creole Reuben" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVcGsmhE1F342BW1gN36b3q5c1KfMDPKuRobKNcc-f3KXP9KA9dDQ5W0wdwndIr4nPr-9TSwDr_3hCDCmK1q8pE3jd34xJgt7_rF73bNdBfKnnoErylIscxLhUWx0UHPTXweho10LCs0c/s1600/pressed+sandwich.JPG" title="Pressed Creole Reuben" /></a></div>
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<b>Drinks and Music:</b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.patobriens.com/patobriens/default.asp" target="_blank">Pat O'Briens</a></b>. Duh. It's the most touristy thing you can do, but I can't think of a more fun way to get the party started! We lucked out with bar seats in the room with dueling pianos, and had a ton of fun watching the show. You have to have something there, if for nothing else tradition's sake.<br />
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Our first night in town we caught a show on the small stage at House of Blues with Luke Wade from The Voice. He put on a great show, and it was a fun way to kick off the trip. It's a little more commercial than we would normally do, but we thought it was fun to see someone that we enjoyed watching on the show.<br />
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Put this on your DO NOT MISS list: <b><a href="http://www.bacchanalwine.com/" target="_blank">Bacchanal Wine</a></b> in Bywater. Take a cab and get there early so you can grab a table in the back. You can buy bottles of wine in the front, pick up some glasses, and settle in the back for some really great jazz. There's a great video on the website that shows how cool this place is (way better than my grainy pictures). It truly is a hidden gem.<br />
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Order a <b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sazerac" target="_blank">Sazerac</a></b> (you can get them just about anywhere, but the fancy Roosevelt Hotel bar is a fun place to drink one).<br />
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<b>Other things to do and see:</b><br />
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On Monday morning we went on a 6 mile<b> <a href="http://www.neworleansjoggingtours.com/" target="_blank">New Orleans Jogging Tour</a></b>. The weather was amazing, our tour guide Marcus was everything you expect from a New Orleans local, and the tour itself was a ton of fun. We jogged an easy pace, stopped at plenty of sights, and had a great time. It was such a fun and different way to see the city. Two highlights were Peyton Manning's childhood home (his parents still live there), and Sandra Bullock's house. Half the tour was in the French Quarter, and the other half was through the Garden District.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSy1MhY2iRnV2N9aGMEh6KxC3vBl73S7vLvbdsDTEc2mcZF9fIHGMDUYdAei4VL0YzVVGcuq055x_cch9S6UxDoiK3VX-V4rgKzwuqLPK1CLVG0dj_TvWrWh1_LjcxOvnvI2oNPjgngM/s1600/Jogging+Tour+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: New Orleans Jogging Tour" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSy1MhY2iRnV2N9aGMEh6KxC3vBl73S7vLvbdsDTEc2mcZF9fIHGMDUYdAei4VL0YzVVGcuq055x_cch9S6UxDoiK3VX-V4rgKzwuqLPK1CLVG0dj_TvWrWh1_LjcxOvnvI2oNPjgngM/s1600/Jogging+Tour+Collage.jpg" title="New Orleans Jogging Tour" /></a></div>
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If you've had your fill of the French Quarter, hop on the trolley to the Garden District, and then walk halfway back down <b><a href="https://www.magazinestreet.com/" target="_blank">Magazine Street</a></b>. Tons of shops, restaurants and bars- it's a slower pace with plenty to see.<br />
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Be sure to also stop at one of the cemeteries. We visited the <b><a href="http://www.saveourcemeteries.org/lafayette-cemetery-no-1/" target="_blank">Lafayette Cemetery</a></b> in the Garden District, and there were all kinds of interesting finds. The above ground tombs have a fascinating history, and you can read more about them <b><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/lcrpnola/burial-styles-traditions" target="_blank">here</a></b>. Some of the tombs had as many as 20 family members in them. You can take a tour to learn more info, but we just walked around by ourselves.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rN-Hn3JOdSsi4wMqOIW8aVGYGs_XVWOSRaoDoIrmqP2cRPrht9GUlYesp7Esp0LyjPs9ADiTayBRBq8c9QsdurVxQzhSxQqImwBueA27kUhEMH7onxt5MKtMmuBQQnlcarzrxlYoxbY/s1600/Lafayette+Cemetery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Lafayette Cemetery" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rN-Hn3JOdSsi4wMqOIW8aVGYGs_XVWOSRaoDoIrmqP2cRPrht9GUlYesp7Esp0LyjPs9ADiTayBRBq8c9QsdurVxQzhSxQqImwBueA27kUhEMH7onxt5MKtMmuBQQnlcarzrxlYoxbY/s1600/Lafayette+Cemetery.jpg" title="Lafayette Cemetery" /></a></div>
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Last but not least, make sure you allow enough time to really walk the French Quarter. Not just Bourbon Street (gross), but all the little housing sections around it. I just couldn't get enough of the architecture on every single block.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWXst6s4mCtxghygrgCzOZ8f4PXcID5VtDvzLYfLQTMIVaHf5eFOuoCwPQrQS_NKhE3-5NEN4QnveTJSuAKAVUCR-nBEAxvvoxtGLc7qBUQSZaVRoKpVN47MUR0Wwn4xCnpF4Gn0aZ08E/s1600/NoLa+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: NoLa" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWXst6s4mCtxghygrgCzOZ8f4PXcID5VtDvzLYfLQTMIVaHf5eFOuoCwPQrQS_NKhE3-5NEN4QnveTJSuAKAVUCR-nBEAxvvoxtGLc7qBUQSZaVRoKpVN47MUR0Wwn4xCnpF4Gn0aZ08E/s1600/NoLa+Collage.jpg" title="NoLa" /></a></div>
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<br />Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6234603232606457356.post-39949858540038890452015-01-16T12:44:00.000-06:002015-01-16T12:44:09.268-06:00A Family of Five<i>This post has been long overdue (almost a year to be exact). Hank could never bring himself to write about Marley's passing (she was, after all, <a href="http://www.thehollandhouse.me/2013/07/an-interview-with-marley.html" target="_blank"><b>his favorite girl</b></a>), and our recent loss of our dear cat Bailey prompted me to finally write a tribute to them.</i><br />
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Just one short year ago, we were a family of 2 humans, 3 dogs, and 2 cats. When Hank and I first combined our animal households, I think we just assumed that Bailey the cat would be the first animal we would have to say goodbye to. She was the oldest (around 15 at the time) and it just seemed logical.<br />
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Little did we know that we would receive the unexpected news at the end of last February that Marley the Beagle (age 12) had a bleeding tumor, and was beyond repair. There was literally nothing that could be done to save her. We could recognize that she was slowing down and not eating as much, but when we took her in to the vet, we were not expecting the news that we got. Hank called me in tears, and we went to pick her up so that we could have some more time with her.<br />
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We made a stop at McDonald's to get her a burger and fries, and headed to the nearest dog park. She gobbled up her food, soaked in the sun, and enjoyed all of the attention we gave her. Looking back at these pictures, I can see just how frail she had gotten. But it's hard to recognize in real time, and even harder to say goodbye. We stayed with her until the very end, and shed many tears over our sweet Marley girl.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ96n3bkmQc0bC-D82uVt6e667f0-r19YIDFDZ4yYo1ge2foSJ4JMFxK7ySaL8Y-BpwLTtNKWVY41a3goHS-CpkIKlGhBk6ahfjsqqgiA37-V9O96gZCd2d7yVs8rR2sHA4YmN3HMTsyk/s1600/Marley+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Marley Girl" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ96n3bkmQc0bC-D82uVt6e667f0-r19YIDFDZ4yYo1ge2foSJ4JMFxK7ySaL8Y-BpwLTtNKWVY41a3goHS-CpkIKlGhBk6ahfjsqqgiA37-V9O96gZCd2d7yVs8rR2sHA4YmN3HMTsyk/s1600/Marley+Collage.jpg" title="Marley eating fries" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPxYUIKVt32K6flG2UcDOv46iEsM_tKLMjqCiZNXQ2j1TdsKzqU35uDFmdm7LpFoUiXcNpYDcsi0xFnb3vBN4EhM4ePHF-n9UNLCkdHsVErYGcXGSY5gQrqZ9uJE-uNHT42KWN9PYgBUY/s1600/Marley+&+Hank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Hank and Marley" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPxYUIKVt32K6flG2UcDOv46iEsM_tKLMjqCiZNXQ2j1TdsKzqU35uDFmdm7LpFoUiXcNpYDcsi0xFnb3vBN4EhM4ePHF-n9UNLCkdHsVErYGcXGSY5gQrqZ9uJE-uNHT42KWN9PYgBUY/s1600/Marley+&+Hank.jpg" title="Hank and Marley" /></a></div>
Just a couple of weeks before we had to say goodbye to Marley, we were fortunate enough to have family pictures taken. I can't tell you how much these mean to us- seeing our canine family all together. (Now if only I could get around to having them put on canvas so we can hang in our house.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9n00DfNBBfNb0qyO0g8ur2_jtP3A9Beuwa521yqU0gb58YgKuEDTWp5F6qtC8_Kejvdd9VGUUfVdCwEFhxeC63u9HU1p4foCYGQJ11vsnkFIfTgSclYuLIJ49M8JslLfLnvSRc2wWtA/s1600/family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: The Holland Family" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9n00DfNBBfNb0qyO0g8ur2_jtP3A9Beuwa521yqU0gb58YgKuEDTWp5F6qtC8_Kejvdd9VGUUfVdCwEFhxeC63u9HU1p4foCYGQJ11vsnkFIfTgSclYuLIJ49M8JslLfLnvSRc2wWtA/s1600/family.jpg" title="The Holland Family" /></a></div>
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Over this past year, Bailey stayed strong until just a few months ago. She has had a thyroid issue for the past several years, but we have been able to manage it with medication. She was no longer the "full figured" girl of her youth, but she still had plenty of spunk! (See picture of her on the kitchen counter- we still don't know exactly how she did that.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBqGUU5HwpzQnnQxETue9NVsz61Wgn6O22NPCquTOVyFw0sTm3h2r7NdVHmtnPfJD5tTIiMMJ16U2y0GInRO3qioTMM3UeVyQxlMZy1GupTGpU_w_nA1hCGymnkMm5dyaZECsCMV5ZWA/s1600/Bailey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Bailey the Cat" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBqGUU5HwpzQnnQxETue9NVsz61Wgn6O22NPCquTOVyFw0sTm3h2r7NdVHmtnPfJD5tTIiMMJ16U2y0GInRO3qioTMM3UeVyQxlMZy1GupTGpU_w_nA1hCGymnkMm5dyaZECsCMV5ZWA/s1600/Bailey+Collage.jpg" title="Bailey the Cat" /></a></div>
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You can read more about how Bailey and I first met<i> <b><a href="http://www.thehollandhouse.me/2013/07/our-animal-herd-bailey.html" target="_blank">here</a></b></i>, but the short story is that she was abandoned at an apartment complex, and meowed on my doorstep one night until I finally let her in. She's been with me for almost my entire adult life! She snuggled with me through every heartbreak, never fussed when we moved (12 times!), and adapted to just about everything I threw her way (including plenty of foster dogs and kittens).<br />
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For about the past month, we could really see her health start to decline. She was losing more weight, had an eye scratch that just wouldn't heal, and wasn't getting around as easily as she had been. We've seen the vet multiple times, and on her recent visit on Monday, he felt that it was time. It's likely that her thyroid issue had been masking some kidney decline, and she was severely dehydrated. Given her age (18+), we wanted to avoid her having to suffer any pain. So we took her home for one last night of snuggling, and said a tearful goodbye on Tuesday evening. She was MY girl, but had somehow made a cat lover out of Hank, too. We both miss her a ton.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3_-vmgY4JZE3e5Z-Ga-oGOK5pQm9PpMGP46GctnO6L_ux0vWtTWyzqes9z0Spi4kVdi-Uu3Q2LaIqCphdbwx8CYhOOc4aDAftveERESBTGw5G_LjAykzNdWD6NLQFRe_2PcYTDd96Jw/s1600/last+night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Holland House: Bailey and Katie" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3_-vmgY4JZE3e5Z-Ga-oGOK5pQm9PpMGP46GctnO6L_ux0vWtTWyzqes9z0Spi4kVdi-Uu3Q2LaIqCphdbwx8CYhOOc4aDAftveERESBTGw5G_LjAykzNdWD6NLQFRe_2PcYTDd96Jw/s1600/last+night.jpg" title="Bailey and Katie" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bailey's last night at home</td></tr>
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Rather than remember her scruffy looks of recent times, I have this picture out to remind me of the beautiful, kind, and sometimes quirky cat that she was. We've been through a lot together, and I hope I did right by her in the end.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zSnkcG6hoZlaAwCEav-l_m_PPk2rJ7e31p_fVxIQivBjGP24Q20iQK1osqqrMB8fuQAa5MLn9zhVQrDJy9exdsf52F0OfoBQaeqF_KzBtWMIF0wt-U659oZ9BpMiM6jmCF7IBsZ57vs/s1600/Bailey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Holland House: Bailey the Cat" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zSnkcG6hoZlaAwCEav-l_m_PPk2rJ7e31p_fVxIQivBjGP24Q20iQK1osqqrMB8fuQAa5MLn9zhVQrDJy9exdsf52F0OfoBQaeqF_KzBtWMIF0wt-U659oZ9BpMiM6jmCF7IBsZ57vs/s1600/Bailey.jpg" title="Bailey the Cat" /></a></div>
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So now we're a family of five. 2 humans, 2 dogs, and 1 cat. It feels weird, and a little quiet at times (even though Maddie and Brees keep us entertained). Given our upcoming fertility treatment, I'm not sure if now is the time to add another family member. But something tells me when the time is right, something will find its way to us.Amy in Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03687831172912804372noreply@blogger.com2