tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47903106267146449742024-03-14T03:36:21.444-04:00Pick Your Feet UpMy mother was the Queen of Day Trips. We woke most Saturdays to her voice: "last one in the car buys breakfast at McDonalds!" We called these weekly excursions "Mystery Day Trips of Probable Historic Value" because Mom took advantage of our history-rich region (think free admission). I'm now continuing Mom's tradition with my own boys by exploring the Mid-Atlantic's parks, museums and historic sites.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.comBlogger207125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-57006362924576675492014-05-16T20:30:00.000-04:002014-05-16T20:30:01.733-04:00Ice Cream for DinnerAs one who frequently eats cereal for dinner, I kind of knew this, but the following <a href="http://grist.org/">Grist</a> quote was still shocking.<br />
<br />
"On average, children’s cereals are 34 percent sugar by weight. Compare that to ice cream, which is usually around 15 percent sugars."<br />
<br />
Maybe I'll start eating ice cream for dinner.<br />
<br />
(Quote from "<a href="http://grist.org/food/meet-the-breakfast-cereals-that-want-to-end-you/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Daily%2520May%252015&utm_campaign=daily">Meet the Breakfast Cereals that Want to Destroy You</a>," Grist)Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-88538017195829975852014-05-16T17:30:00.000-04:002014-05-16T17:30:01.251-04:00Photo FridayWhat got me through last weekend's almighty funk, was remembering all I have to be thankful for.<br />
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My boys. My family. My friends. <br />
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And these.<br />
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Blueberries in blossom.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-63338055510463993272014-05-14T18:30:00.000-04:002014-05-14T18:30:00.335-04:00Weekend Plans?Back in March, I mentioned a couple of <a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/2014/03/featuring-new-features.html">new blog features</a>.<br />
<br />
I've been working on "<a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html">Local Goings On</a>" all this week. I'm beginning to suspect I've once again embarked on what might be an overly ambitious project. <br />
<br />
However, the downside of all this curating is also upside: there is <a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html">so much going on</a>!<br />
<br />
My head is spinning with day trip ideas! <br />
<br />
See if you can find one that floats your boat. . . or ties your hiking boot. . . or turns your page.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-28280956231190242612014-05-12T12:00:00.000-04:002014-05-12T12:00:03.255-04:00A Grump Bearing Good NewsWarm Mother's Day wishes to all who mother.<br />
<br />
Commiserations to all who - for whatever reason - are Mother's Day grumps like myself.<br />
<br />
But we made it! It's over for a whole year! And I come bearing good news:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Washington Monument reopens today! </b></span><br />
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Coincidentally, the boys and I had George Washington Spring Break. We visited <a href="http://www.nps.gov/gewa/index.htm">George's birthplace</a> on Pope's Creek in Virginia and his adult home at <a href="http://www.mountvernon.org/">Mt. Vernon</a>.<br />
<br />
Matt badly wanted to cap our week with a trip to the top of the Washington Monument, but it's been closed since the <a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/2011/08/wildlife-wednesday-earth.html">bizarre earthquake in August 2011</a>. The monument sustained significant damage in the shaking and has been under repair ever since.<br />
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I can't wait to tell Matt we can go up now!<br />
<br />
<br />----------<br /><br /><b>Further Reading</b><ul>
<li>"<a href="http://www.nps.gov/wamo/washington-monument-reopening.htm">Washington Monument Reopening</a>," National Park Service</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>"<a href="http://www.npr.org/2014/05/12/311742910/washington-monument-to-reopen-after-3-years-of-quake-repairs?ft=1&f=1001">Washington Monument To Reopen After 3 Years Of Quake Repairs</a>," Associated Press (on the NPR website)</li>
</ul>
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-62033220057790025972014-05-06T21:16:00.002-04:002014-05-06T21:18:24.252-04:00Seeing ThingsIt was the mid-1990s, Granddaddy and I were in the back seat of Aunt Marilyn's car. I don't know where we were going or who else was there, but I remember looking out my window at Rockhold Creek. I saw a kingfisher and excitedly pointed it out to the rest of the car.<br />
<br />
Granddaddy was excited too. I've never known anyone who could get so much joy out of small things. He took my hand and squeezed it.<br />
<br />
"I'm so glad you SEE things. Not everybody does," he said with a proud smile.<br />
<br />
I was in my early twenties, but I was Granddaddy's girl. It made me warm and giddy to think I'd pleased him. Proud too, that this "seeing things" was something we shared. Something I inherited from him.<br />
<br />
My boys see things too.<br />
<br />
Gabe is the champion of things no one else notices. The bit of trash shaped like an elephant. The microscopic manufacturer's star on the back window of our old mini-van. The chicken pox scar on my forehead.<br />
<br />
But Matt sees things the way Granddaddy did.<br />
<br />
Gabe has piano lessons on Thursday night and between school and work and commute times, I stoop (and they cheer) to fast food. The boys take turns choosing a restaurant. Gabe's favorite is Subway. Matt's is Sonic.<br />
<br />
A few weeks ago, we sat devouring our burgers and tots, when Matt leaned toward the windshield to stare into the sky.<br />
<br />
"Is that a bald eagle?"<br />
<br />
I followed his gaze. White head, white tail, HUGE bird.<br />
<br />
"I think it is!"<br />
<br />
It turned out to be the first of two eagles we saw that week. Both were very special, but made all the more so by the thought of Granddaddy doing his heavenly happy dance over our ability to see things.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-22774627257516057402014-04-25T20:45:00.000-04:002014-04-25T20:45:32.642-04:00Photo Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9dL8U_tayJs/U1sAf-9CiYI/AAAAAAAABJ8/AMVv5Xjn8Mg/s1600/04-2014_harry-nice-bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9dL8U_tayJs/U1sAf-9CiYI/AAAAAAAABJ8/AMVv5Xjn8Mg/s1600/04-2014_harry-nice-bridge.jpg" /></a></div>
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Last week, the boys and I day tripped our way through our annual Spring Break "Staycation." I have lots to share, but it's been difficult returning from the vacation mind set.<br />
<br />
You might think a week on the road with two boys would make a person a little crazy, but I get to think a lot on those trips. The car is better than any chemical sleep aid for Gabe. He's asleep within the first ten miles. Matt and I have some of our best heart to hearts, but eventually, he fades out too.<br />
<br />
And so for much of the drive it's just me, behind the wheel, humming to myself, rearranging words in my head, completely at peace.<br />
<br />
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -<br />
<br />
Photo credit belongs to Matt. He loves the new camera almost as much as I do.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-69609822875184056922014-04-11T12:00:00.000-04:002014-04-11T12:00:01.933-04:00Photo Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WgMmJ23vvBo/U0c7x_o3emI/AAAAAAAABJc/JI7N3tsCK5I/s1600/04-2014_ff_spring-flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WgMmJ23vvBo/U0c7x_o3emI/AAAAAAAABJc/JI7N3tsCK5I/s1600/04-2014_ff_spring-flower.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't know when I first fell in love with flowers.<br />
<br />
I have early memories of sitting barefoot in our yard, wiggling my toes between cool, green blades and gathering grubby bouquets of flowering weeds for any female relatives with the misfortune of being nearby. <br />
<br />
Once they stopped sneezing and I gained fine motor skills, I spent hours weaving and tying stems of clover to make necklaces, bracelets, rings and tiaras. The grown-ups were spared and I instead decorated myself and little sister.<br />
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By the time I read<i> The Secret Garden </i>in second grade, I was hooked. I loved flowers and daydreamed incessantly - of many things - but especially of my own bit of earth and the wonderful treasures I would grow.<br />
<br />
I wrote a series of stories about little fairies who lived in a garden world. And as my interests shifted to art, I drew and painted portraits of flowers. <br />
<br />
As an adult, I've learned I'm a much better dreamer than I am gardener. I've never achieved anything remotely like the pages of my favorite Martha Stewart garden book, much less that of my imagined fairy world, but this time of year inspires me to break out the spade and try again.<br />
<br />
Even the flowers at Whole Foods call my name. I'm as likely to splurge on a bouquet of tulips or a fragrant bunch of peonies (my favorite) as I am to buy ice cream or cookies. The added bonus: flowers are better for the waistline.<br />
<br />
And it's been an easy move to combine my love affair with the new camera with this lifelong love of things that bloom. Once again, flower portraits reign.<br />
<br />
Flower photos, after all, are much easier than those of boys.<br />
<br />
Flowers can't stick out their tongue.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-21343592351430514462014-04-09T12:00:00.000-04:002014-04-09T12:01:34.612-04:00You Say Oyster, I Say "Erster"Last week, I found myself cruising the Severn River. The wind was in my hair, the sun on my face and in my hand a . . .<br />
<br />
very slimy shell.<br />
<br />
My big boy's sixth-grade science class took a field trip to the <a href="http://www.amaritime.org/">Annapolis Maritime Museum</a>. The trip included a ride on the <a href="http://cruisesonthebay.com/">Harbor Queen</a> to plant spat on a reef at the nearby <a href="http://www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/oysters/eco_resto/sanctuaries.asp">oyster sanctuary</a>.<br />
<br />
Spat are baby oysters.<br />
<br />
They are also proof that the phrase "baby anythings are cute" is not true.<br />
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There were more than a dozen spat on this shell. Gabe got to "plant" it on the reef (i.e. chuck it in the direction of a yellow buoy).<br />
<br />
While on the boat, we also measured water quality and learned how oysters help filter the water of the Bay. We learned the oyster's place in the food chain and how oysters provide a habitat for other Bay critters like the blue crab.<br />
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It was a chilly, but beautiful trip.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ix2CyiOvvI/U0VoJYg3INI/AAAAAAAABI4/FuRYx-5sczk/s1600/04-2014_oyster_academy-bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ix2CyiOvvI/U0VoJYg3INI/AAAAAAAABI4/FuRYx-5sczk/s1600/04-2014_oyster_academy-bridge.jpg" /></a></div>
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We left from the Annapolis City Docks, but the boat dropped us off at the Annapolis Maritime Museum.<br />
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The museum is located in an old oyster packing plant. It was an appropriate place to learn the role oysters play in the local economy. We got to talk to an active waterman and try our hand at tonging for oysters.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tzg0wr29Uso/U0VoKerUcpI/AAAAAAAABJI/G8sgKllPBhQ/s1600/04-2014_oyster_tongs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tzg0wr29Uso/U0VoKerUcpI/AAAAAAAABJI/G8sgKllPBhQ/s1600/04-2014_oyster_tongs.jpg" /></a></div>
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It was hard work.<br />
<br />
Gabe decided oysters are cool, but he'd rather be a marine paleontologist.<br />
<br />
I decided I'm grateful our school system puts such value on teaching kids about our environment.<br />
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<br />
<i>To learn more about oysters, try visiting the following resources:</i><br />
<ul>
<li>"<a href="http://www.chesapeakebay.net/issues/issue/oysters">Oysters</a>," The Chesapeake Program</li>
<li>"<a href="http://chesapeakebay.noaa.gov/oysters/oyster-reefs">Oyster Reefs</a>," NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office</li>
<li>"<a href="http://www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/oysters/">Shellfish Program</a>," Maryland Department of Natural Resources</li>
</ul>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-45048385708375994692014-03-25T12:00:00.000-04:002014-03-25T12:00:00.702-04:00Maryland Day: Three Hundred and EightyMarch 25 marks the day 150 colonists set foot on St. Clement's Island and founded the colony of Maryland.<br />
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My ancestors weren't on those first two boats, but the family joke is they were on the next one out.<br />
<br />
Happy 380th Birthday, Maryland! <br />
<br />
<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aHisvWsVAO0/UzGa9LHkZxI/AAAAAAAABH8/PRM11dzuJFY/s1600/pyfu_dove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aHisvWsVAO0/UzGa9LHkZxI/AAAAAAAABH8/PRM11dzuJFY/s1600/pyfu_dove.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Replica of the Dove</b><br />(this photo makes me think of the last scene from <i>Goonies</i>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-48947740579681674002014-03-24T17:25:00.000-04:002014-03-25T11:23:03.539-04:00Featuring New Features!Back when I was diligently blogging, I introduced a feature called "<a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/search/label/events">Sharing the Love</a>."<br />
<br />
Once a week, I'd post events and/or day trip suggestions for the coming weekend. That was hard to maintain and, in retrospect, not very helpful to you. Most of my posts were on Thursday and while I may plan the majority of our day trips the night before (or in the car that morning), I recognize most people prefer a little more time. <br />
<br />
So, to resolve these issues, I created two new pages. They're two of the pretty links at the top of the green box on the right-hand side of this new design.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SH0-H37Rpk4/UzCgxt1JQPI/AAAAAAAABGk/YCs8QNn8hMA/s1600/pyfu_screenshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SH0-H37Rpk4/UzCgxt1JQPI/AAAAAAAABGk/YCs8QNn8hMA/s1600/pyfu_screenshot.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
"<a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html">Local Goings On</a>" is a listing, by date, of various kid-friendly events within two or so hours of Annapolis. There's a few events there now, but I will continually add more as I come across them.<br />
<br />
The other feature I'm adding is "<a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/p/blog-page_18.html">Favorite Destinations</a>," which will provide a three-thumb rating system and very brief description of the venues the boys and I visit going forward. <br />
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We'll see how these new features work out. Feel free to provide your thoughts!<br />
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Happy day tripping!Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-23477995632409347972014-03-21T09:00:00.000-04:002014-03-21T09:00:11.643-04:00Photo Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C2e3ukbRrCQ/UyshHtS8_ZI/AAAAAAAABGI/X62g3iVU76U/s1600/pyfu_ff_bird-on-suet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C2e3ukbRrCQ/UyshHtS8_ZI/AAAAAAAABGI/X62g3iVU76U/s1600/pyfu_ff_bird-on-suet.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Despite my recent complaints, I've enjoyed the snow we've received this winter.<br />
<br />
My snow days were spent sledding, playing, and/or sitting in front of the fireplace watching a parade of juncos, titmice and woodpeckers outside our picture window.<br />
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-60069332077158249172014-03-20T13:14:00.001-04:002014-03-20T13:14:47.253-04:00Happy Spring!Now that it's officially spring, I hope we get more of this:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WORvZ4QPWVY/UyshHUhvucI/AAAAAAAABGM/RHKsoEnjF5I/s1600/pyfu_spring_flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WORvZ4QPWVY/UyshHUhvucI/AAAAAAAABGM/RHKsoEnjF5I/s1600/pyfu_spring_flowers.jpg" /></a></div>
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And less of this:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BoC4vxacJEQ/UyshHZ_s7KI/AAAAAAAABGQ/YsXscrVkNrs/s1600/pyfu_spring_snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BoC4vxacJEQ/UyshHZ_s7KI/AAAAAAAABGQ/YsXscrVkNrs/s1600/pyfu_spring_snow.jpg" /></a></div>
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Fingers and toes crossed. Pajamas worn right-side-out.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-2006082524170788062014-03-18T13:30:00.000-04:002014-03-18T13:30:20.229-04:00Oh Say Can You See?Never mind that a snow storm came through Sunday, dumping eight inches of snow in our backyard.<br />
<br />
Saturday was beautiful.<br />
<br />
We took full advantage and embarked on our first official day trip of 2014. Matt chose our destination - one that's become a family favorite - <a href="http://www.nps.gov/fomc/index.htm">Fort McHenry</a>.<br />
<br />
As far as day trips go, this one almost has it all: cheap (kids under 15 are free, adults are $7); educational; has a dramatic, compelling story; provides lots of outdoor space for picnics or running around; has plenty of nooks and crannies to explore; and there's cannons. Lots of cannons (this being high up on the boys' list of features).<br />
<br />
Neither boy tires of hearing about the Battle of Baltimore and the <i>Star Spangled Banner</i>. We watch the movie on every visit and they are completely engrossed. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ept7-S6KoZE/Uyh9tMMr0qI/AAAAAAAABFk/8CRJV917zDM/s1600/pyfu_ftmchenry_movie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ept7-S6KoZE/Uyh9tMMr0qI/AAAAAAAABFk/8CRJV917zDM/s1600/pyfu_ftmchenry_movie.jpg" /></a></div>
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They also enjoy making fun of me. I get something in my eye every time... <br />
<br />
The exhibits are really well done. Lots of information, but presented with images, video, buttons and touchscreens.<br />
<br />
Sometimes it takes a little teamwork to see it all.<br />
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Definitely our favorite part is visiting the fort itself: poking our heads into the barracks, exploring the guard house and walking between the cannons.<br />
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According to Matt, Fort McHenry is an HRA. That's "highly recommended adventure." </div>
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Which if you know Matt, you know that's high praise indeed. </div>
<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-65981548383629792372014-03-14T21:16:00.001-04:002014-03-14T21:18:18.830-04:00Photo Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V1c6RtmxdoA/UyOoE3nC-PI/AAAAAAAABFI/1X2wisLY1I4/s1600/03-2014_peony-shoots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V1c6RtmxdoA/UyOoE3nC-PI/AAAAAAAABFI/1X2wisLY1I4/s1600/03-2014_peony-shoots.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
To the average viewer, this isn't as pretty as the sunrise I posted Wednesday, but it sure makes me happy. Those little red shoots belong to my favorite flower: the peony.<br />
<br />
I salvaged these particular peonies from my grandparent's farm just before it sold last fall. I wasn't sure they would come up.<br />
<br />
So, to me, this is a sunrise. <br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-24874326568612611462014-03-12T13:38:00.000-04:002014-03-12T14:15:09.890-04:00Say Cheese!One of the many things that happened during my year of blog sabbatical was the death of my camera.<br />
<br />
It was a sad occasion. That battered point and shoot had been with us since the boys were toddlers. It had been dropped, submerged, covered in goo and machine washed. Then one day it just quit.<br />
<br />
We went without a camera for three months and then I couldn't stand it. I did extensive research, haunted various box stores, read a ton of reviews and asked questions for weeks. I narrowed my choices to range of cameras I think of as hybrids. More than a point and shoot, but not quite a full DSLR. A camera I can take my usual basic snapshot with now, while learning how to <i>really </i>use it.<br />
<br />
I made my purchase last weekend. I had a moment of panic as I paid the bill, but any buyer's remorse is long gone.<br />
<br />
<br />
I now have three children: Gabe, Matt and a SONY NEX-5T.<br />
<br />
I've immersed myself in aperture, shutter speed and ISO. I'm still a little lost, but am no longer reliant on full-auto mode.<br />
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<br />
Not exactly Ansel Adams, but I'm rather proud of them.<br />
<br />
Of course, there is a drawback to this new camera. It doesn't quite fit in my pocket like the old one. <br />
<br />
But I've high hopes there too. Hopefully, it will lessen the chance of getting machine washed.<br />
<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-47880154230936352014-03-09T23:34:00.000-04:002014-03-09T23:34:34.305-04:00Digging Out<br />We're digging out.<br />
<br />
Out of this long winter. Out of a string of home-bound boy weekends. Out of a writing slump. <br />
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It's been almost a year since I last posted. And while the posts here have been scarce, with the exception of the last month, the adventures and day trips have not.<br />
<br />
A year has made a big difference in the boys' level of participation. They help with destination ideas, planning, packing, menu-making and even navigation. It takes some of the burden off me, but comes with a small hitch - they also have definite opinions on where and what we do.<br />
<br />
Luckily, we learned the term "oligarchy" this fall, courtesy of sixth grade social studies.<br />
<br />
So, here's to high hopes: that spring will finally arrive, that day trips will commence and posts regularly be written.<br />
<br />
Happy day tripping and thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-22979616297275854512013-04-16T17:00:00.000-04:002014-03-21T09:44:07.265-04:00From Baltimore to Boston<br />
Stories - real and imagined - have always had power over me.<br />
<br />
I crave them. I seek them out. <br />
<br />
Some stories have a way of getting under my skin and into my mind. They refuse to let go. I obsess over details: facts, maps,
graphics, photographs. I run them over and over in my head, pondering the hows and whys.<br />
<br />
It's not always a bad thing, but there are times when it threatens to undo me.<br />
<br />
<br />
Last December, it was the children of Sandy Hook. <br />
<br />
Today, it's the image of a dark-haired, eight year old running to meet his father. I haven't stopped thinking of him since I heard one of those killed in the Boston Marathon bombings was a little boy.<br />
<br />
I've cut myself off from the news coverage, but I can't get his image out of my head.<br />
<br />
As he walked back to his mother, did he grin and display his missing front teeth? Did he talk constantly of Ninjas? Revel in the joke of burps coming from the attic and not the basement? Did he hug his mama twice every night - one regular and one extra tight?<br />
<br />
Because there is another dark-haired, toothless eight-year-old boy who does all those things. I will be hugging him three times tonight - all extra tight. <br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-20201469711656136932013-03-26T23:30:00.000-04:002014-03-21T09:44:43.013-04:00Spring Break Gone LocalWhen I think of Spring Break, this is what I think of.<br />
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That's me on Spring Break in Key West, twenty years ago. <br />
<br />
. . .<br />
<br />
. . .<br />
<br />
Sorry. Had a minor freak out when I realized it really was twenty years ago.<br />
<br />
Ahem. <br />
<br />
This week, the boys and I are on Spring Break. Our little holiday started out like this:<br />
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A bit different from that other holiday, but lovely all the same.<br />
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I've missed the magic a good snowfall can bring.<br />
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Though perhaps it was more magical when their aim was not so precise.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-83289756024880511192013-03-25T11:10:00.002-04:002014-03-25T11:09:48.920-04:00Happy Maryland Day!On this day, in 1634, 150 European settlers landed on a <a href="http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/stclements.asp">small island</a> in the Potomac River. Those settlers went on to found a colony which later became our little state. <br />
<br />
March 25, now known as Maryland Day, is an official state holiday commemorating the landing and celebrating the birth of the "Old Line State", the "Free State", "Little America," Mary's land. <br />
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Happy Birthday, Maryland!<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-18752300293816565042013-03-13T12:00:00.000-04:002013-03-13T12:00:05.522-04:00Kid-friendly?As a sort of follow-up to yesterday's post on picky eaters, I thought I'd share a few "kid-friendly" meal finds. Some of them made me laugh out loud.<br />
<br />
Who writes these things?<br />
<br />
Apparently, lucky bums whose kids eat anything!<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/family-friendly-recipes-00000000023901/page6.html">arugula salad with dates and bacon</a></b> (<i>Real Simple</i>)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.parents.com/recipes/cooking/family-favorites/vegetables/#page=10">fiesta corn</a></b> (<i>Parents</i>)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.parents.com/recipes/cooking/family-favorites/vegetables/#page=3">minty peas</a></b> (<i>Parents</i>)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/family-friendly-recipes-00000000023901/page4.html">sweet corn quesadillas</a></b> (<i>Real Simple</i>)<br /> <br />
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<b><a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipe/kid-friendly-tuna-salad-almonds-and-raisins">tuna salad with almonds and raisins</a></b> (<i>Whole Foods</i>)<br />
<br />
??!!<br />
<br />
Several of those look lovely to me, but there's not a chance I'd get one bite in my boys. Matt would certainly take his no-dessert consequence gladly if it meant he never had to taste a minty pea.<br />
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Can't say I blame him.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-8321519103804765792013-03-12T14:30:00.000-04:002014-03-21T09:49:23.146-04:00Picky Picky Picky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I used to be really good at planning the week's menu and keeping to a grocery budget. I've fallen off that wagon, but resolved this weekend to get back on.<br />
<br />
I made a pretty spreadsheet and spent an hour staring at it. I couldn't remember what I used to make!<br />
<br />
So, I surfed the web looking for recipes. Grown up meal ideas were pretty easy, but boy meals were challenging. Mostly because of the smaller boy. <br />
<br />
Matt hates most green things (with the exceptions of raw cucumbers and raw celery). He will not eat anything mixed together. He does not like cheese or eggs. Most vegetables beyond those already mentioned are out of the question. <br />
<br />
I've found that non-parents and parents with easy eaters tend to be a little judgmental about this.<br />
<br />
"Don't allow that," they say. "Make him eat his veggies."<br />
<br />
Or my favorite: "he'd eat them for me!"<br />
<br />
Be guest, my friend. May the Force be with you. You apparently have not met my son with the will of steel.<br />
<br />
My meal policy is my compromise. I do my best to make healthy meals they like. If they suddenly decide to hate the entree they loved last week, they don't have to eat it. But there's nothing else. No alternative meals and no dessert. And they have to try at least one bite of anything new before they decide it's disgusting.<br />
<br />
That's the law.<br />
<br />
Or at least the law when Granny isn't around. Granny (great-Granny to the boys) flouts the law and makes sure bananas or hotdogs are available in place of the prescribed dinner. Sometimes she goes straight to the mint chocolate chip ice cream.<br />
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I roll my eyes, but what else can I do? Should I attempt to thwart my 87-year-old grandmother?<br />
<br />
If your answer is yes, you haven't met her.<br />
<br />
Wills of steel run in the family.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-37885959400447729332013-03-06T17:17:00.001-05:002013-03-06T17:17:58.096-05:00Ten Inches of SnowSo far, this is what four to ten inches of snow from Saturn/Snowquester looks like.<br />
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<br />
Yeah, I can't see it either.<br />
<br />
The morning rain was supposed to turn to heavy snow this afternoon. We had some torrential downpours, the wind blew hard, but no snow.<br />
<br />
It's a little disappointing. I like the snow. But the boys and I got off work and school, so I'm not complaining.<br />
<br />
My feelings aren't apparently shared. The Interwebs, especially social media, have been full of gripes and moans and downright nastiness. I suppose that's nothing new, but come on people! Give the weather guys a break!<br />
<br />
Most of the reports I watched emphasized the complicated factors involved with this storm. Air masses, highs and lows, the temperature of the Bay. . . It may be science, but with so many variables, what happens in the end is still an educated guess.<br />
<br />
I'm glad the school systems erred on the side of keeping our kids safe. And I'm glad my employer did the same. I spent the day with my guys, playing "Just Dance" and watching <i>Star Wars</i> in front of the fireplace.<br />
<br />
Absolutely no nastiness here. <br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-27515160807457864352013-03-05T15:02:00.000-05:002013-03-05T15:02:31.115-05:00CountingLast week was rough.<br />
<br />
There were some big, scary things I'm not at liberty to talk about. There was a lot of work: at home and in the office. I was under a couple of deadlines. I'm afraid I didn't handle it well.<br />
<br />
Friday, as I drove home in the afternoon rush, I listened to NPR stories about the sequester. It was the final straw. I had a temper tantrum on 97.<br />
<br />
I will spare you my political high horse. In fact, let's change the subject. I feel myself getting riled again over the ridiculous games worthless politicians play with people's lives.<br />
<br />
(See what I mean?)<br />
<br />
There were a few good things that happened last week:<br />
<ul>
<li>We had an IEP meeting for one of my boys and the consensus was as I have long believed: he's wonderful. </li>
<li>The bridal shower for my sweet baby sister I'd been co-planning for months came off without a hitch. </li>
<li>I ordered more printer ink from Amazon.com and it arrived two days later.</li>
</ul>
<br />
So, not all bad.<br />
<br />
This week, by comparison, is already better. Especially with the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ffwintermidatlantic">promise of a real snow</a>.<br />
<br />
As one of my social media friends said, "gotta love a weather forecast that uses the word 'kaboom'."<br />
<br />
Indeed.<br />
<br />
Here's to counting blessings and inches of snow.<br />
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-21267010511211477572013-02-22T23:17:00.002-05:002013-02-22T23:18:28.414-05:00Sharing the LoveIt's a dark and stormy night. . . or at least a cold and rainy one.<br />
<br />
It's the kind of night when the best course of action is to curl up under the covers and dream of hiking across a summer meadow or canoeing with the sun hot on your back. If you're looking to do something sooner, here are my weekly suggestions.<br />
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<b>SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2013</b><br />
<br />
<br />
10 to 11 am<br />
<a href="http://dnrweb.dnr.state.md.us/dnrasp/websurvey/dnrcform/cm.asp?page=5&lstMonth=February"><b>February is for the Birds</b></a><br />
Patapsco Valley State Park<br />
Catonsville, Maryland<br />
6-12 year olds can make bird feeders out of every day objects<br />
cost: $2/person<br />
<br />
5 to 6 pm<br />
<a href="http://dnrweb.dnr.state.md.us/dnrasp/websurvey/dnrcform/cm.asp?page=5&lstMonth=February"><b>Owl Prowl</b></a><br />
Elk Neck State Park<br />
North East, Maryland<br />
naturalist guided hike to learn about owls<br />
cost: $3/person, $10/per family of four<br />
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6 to 9 pm<br />
<a href="http://dnrweb.dnr.state.md.us/dnrasp/websurvey/dnrcform/cm.asp?page=6&lstMonth=February"><b>Owl Prowl</b></a><br />
Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary<br />
Upper Marlboro, Maryland<br />
guided prowl looking for owls<br />
cost: free<br />
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<b>SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2013</b><br />
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2 pm<br />
<b><a href="http://www.artbma.org/calendar/families.html#FreeFamilySundays">Family Tour: Highlights of the Contemporary Wing</a></b><br />
Baltimore Museum of Art<br />
Baltimore, Maryland<br />
cost: free<br />
<br />
As always, I recommend checking with the original source to verify times and location.<br />
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Enjoy!Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790310626714644974.post-68571461869768575232013-02-20T23:21:00.001-05:002013-02-20T23:21:03.515-05:00A Wandering Adventure<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>~ WARNING ~<br />Dear Carr cousins and sweet friend Melissa,<br />There is a gratuitous snake photo in this post.<br />My apologies.</i></div>
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Last Saturday, the boys and I rambled along in an unplanned adventure.<br />
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It was the kind of thing my mother adored. I love it too.<br />
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My boys, however, live for structure. Even if the destination is a surprise, they still like to know we'll be there at ten, have lunch around noon and head for home at two. Spontaneous is not their middle name.<br />
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Saturday, after a lazy morning and big breakfast, I herded my guys and their visiting cousin to the car. It was cold and drizzling when we pulled out the driveway. We headed south to <a href="http://www.greenstreetgardens.com/">Greenstreet Gardens</a> planning to attend the "Hoot is in Your Backyard" event <a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/2013/02/photo-friday-with-some-love.html">I mentioned Friday</a>.<br />
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We were a little late.<br />
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By the time we got there and parked, most of the show was over and the crowd was thinning. We walked around and met this young owl, but he was ready to go home. We didn't even get his name.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aoO2hn6vpRA/USL0hRRYFGI/AAAAAAAAA8k/qyAGxCL-BYw/s1600/13_wand_owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aoO2hn6vpRA/USL0hRRYFGI/AAAAAAAAA8k/qyAGxCL-BYw/s400/13_wand_owl.jpg" width="393" /> </a></div>
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The proceeds for the "Hoot" event went to the <a href="http://www.friendsofjugbay.org/index.html">Friends of Jug Bay</a>, a non-profit supporting the <a href="http://www.jugbay.org/">Jug Bay Sanctuary</a>. The Friends had a couple of tables with displays about the sanctuary.</div>
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That gave me an idea.</div>
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I herded the boys back to the car, stopping to take this photo on our way.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nan3TcRZjhU/USL0hcqUYoI/AAAAAAAAA8g/QHaRQNIbsYE/s1600/13_wand_boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nan3TcRZjhU/USL0hcqUYoI/AAAAAAAAA8g/QHaRQNIbsYE/s400/13_wand_boys.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We headed southwest for another twenty minutes to <a href="http://www.pgparks.com/page332.aspx">Patuxent River Park</a> in Upper Marlboro, Maryland and stopped at the Jug Bay Visitor Center. The boys studied a stuffed bald eagle on display while I talked to a friendly park worker about the trails, rural life museums and other attractions. The museums are only open in the warmer months, but we left happy, laden with handfuls of pamphlets and maps for future adventures.<br />
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And I had another idea.<br />
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We traveled for another ten minutes down winding, rural roads to a park we've visited before. Our old friend <a href="http://pickyourfeetup.blogspot.com/2010/06/park-quest-1-merkle-wildlife-sanctuary.html">Merkle</a>. <br />
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No impossible quests today. We were met by a young and enthusiastic ranger. She walked the boys around the nature center exhibits brought out a red corn snake to meet us.<br />
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We all pet her. She was silky smooth.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZjL1nZmMcU/USL0haIYxUI/AAAAAAAAA8c/HbdzZ5N1Y0Y/s1600/13_wand_redcornsnake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZjL1nZmMcU/USL0haIYxUI/AAAAAAAAA8c/HbdzZ5N1Y0Y/s400/13_wand_redcornsnake.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We met a few more snakes and three turtles. Our favorite was the alligator snapping turtle. No one knows how old this grumpy fellow is. He's just old. And grumpy. And armored like a dinosaur.<br />
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Gabe pressed his nose against the aquarium for a better look and CHOMP! against the glass. Gabe jumped back and there were peals of laughter from all three boys. The old fellow poked his head out the water.<br />
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"What's so funny?" he seemed to say.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K2gpw7WIMns/USL0h2NaJ1I/AAAAAAAAA8o/FgeQYFUKGmI/s1600/13_wand_snapturtle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K2gpw7WIMns/USL0h2NaJ1I/AAAAAAAAA8o/FgeQYFUKGmI/s400/13_wand_snapturtle.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Spontaneity! That's what!Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08017351884426538900noreply@blogger.com0