tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31966951355296386942024-02-18T20:39:19.785-05:00Our Lovely Girls<br><br>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger622125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-11437572645775231652017-02-05T04:58:00.004-05:002017-02-05T04:58:52.329-05:00Audrey Catherine is EIGHT!<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/ng/services/mediarender/THISLIFE/002055794629/media/22002614954/medium/1472846014/enhance"height="400" width="250"><br />
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It's so bittersweet. I adore the young lady she is becoming, but I miss the days of when she was itty bitty.<br />
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Audrey is amazing. She is smart, thoughtful, and responsible. A wonderful big sister. She is eager to learn. She is considerate and sensitive. We adore her sweetness!<br />
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She loves to draw and write and create. She doesn't love homework :) I still can't believe it when I see her reading chapter books. <br />
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Chris and I joke that she's the third person in our marriage, lol. She doesn't hesitate to snuggle up with us. She waits until I go to bed, then she climbs in with me just so we can have some extra time together (and watch Family Fued!) I'm absolutely dreading the day she doesn't want to snuggle...although knowing her it won't be for awhile :)<br />
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Audrey makes friends everywhere she goes...she describes herself as shy, but I don't see it. Whenever I see her at school she's always smiling and chatting away. I envy that about her! She truly thrives off her interactions with others. <br />
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As she gets older I'm finding that there are more and more teachable moments...and she truly listens and tries to understand. She asks thoughtful questions. She wants to do what's right. I love her pureness.<br />
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Eight years ago we just didn't know how blessed we had become. We are thankful every single day for our sweet Audrey Cate! <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-58820054562333464692017-01-09T05:57:00.000-05:002017-02-05T05:15:23.705-05:00Abigail Mae is 5 1/2!This girl!<br />
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She's just fabulous. At any given time you can find her dancing, singing, and acting. If she's not playing with Audrey, she's by herself doing these things or building with Legos, reading, or drawing.<br />
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She loves to clean her room (and other people's rooms!) Audrey was at a friend's party one evening and Abigail had been upstairs for awhile. I went to check on her and she had been cleaning all of the bedroom (picking up toys, rearranging things, lol.)<br />
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She's absolutely ROCKING kindergarten. She loves to tell us all about the math she's learning and the books they read. I get to see her on the playground and at lunch every day. On the playground she can be found on the monkey bars (can only do 2 bars, then she gets back up and waits in line again!) or climbing up the playground. Lately she's been more into chasing/being chased. She loves her friends and ADORES her sweet teacher. At the end of the day she comes into my classroom and my students love hanging out with her...although she mostly prefers to head out to the playground by herself :) I think she's like me in that way- once her school day is done, she needs some down time, lol.<br />
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She played Fall soccer and takes dance class. I absolutely LOVE watching her in action. She does things her own way and I am so proud of her!<br />
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She needs a book before bed every night and usually she reads to me. There's nothing better than hearing your baby read! She earned an amazing first report card, but more importantly she's flourishing socially and emotionally. I get to see her at lunch and on the playground...I can't kiss and hug her enough!<br />
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We love watching our darling girl learn and grow each day...I can't believe how fast the time has gone! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-46680667668808804522016-11-23T06:47:00.000-05:002016-11-23T06:47:07.521-05:00Anne Elizabeth is THREE<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/ng/services/mediarender/THISLIFE/002055794629/media/22002413522/medium/1472845007/enhance"height="400" width="300"><br />
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Our sweet little lady!! While she talks and acts like she's 13, I look at her and see baby, baby, baby!<br />
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She is such a ham!! And so, so sassy. I literally can't EVEN sometimes....she makes me smile so much my face hurts. <br />
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I don't even know where to start...<br />
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She wakes between 6-7, usually singing SUPER LOUDLY or saying, "Mommy, oh mommy!" She's still in her crib because #lastchild. She lays down for a nap around 11-12, but I really think she's starting to give them up because 50% of the time she just plays and sings for a couple hours. Her pacis all "broke" a few months ago, but she HAS to have one in her bed. She lays it right on her pillow. Her blanket must be covering her entire bed (can we say OCD??) She goes to bed around 7 and she sleeps straight through the night. I must read her one "big book" AND one "tiny book." When I get to the last page of the tiny book, she tries to run off and escape but I catch her, give her kisses and tickles and then put her in bed. <br />
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She sleeps with her ocean sounds on, and asks me to close the door "a libble dit" (= "a litle bit"...see? CAN'T. EVEN!!) Sometimes she'll call me back and say, "Wait! I tell you secret!" and then she'll whisper in my ear, "I love you!" And everything in my world is right. <br />
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She's potty trained except for naps, night, and number 2. She goes to the bathroom by herself, but then she runs out half naked and throws her undies at you, lol. <br />
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She is crazy sensitive. You cannot be upset with this girl...she gets teary and says, "I sorry, I sorry," until you comfort her...and even then she'll cry for a few minutes. Don't even think about snapping at her, or her sisters. She will say, "Don't be mean to my sisters!" Yet when she's mad at her sisters she'll say, "You're mean! Poppy Aud! Poopy Ab!" WHAT?!? If she's mad I'll ask her silly questions about how I should punish her sisters..."Should I put them in time out? Should I hang them upside down from the ceiling?" She always says no! She doesn't want <i>anything</i> bad happening to them. <br />
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Also, if she really wants something she'll say, "Don't say no, that make my heart mad." Ummmmm, ok? I always take the time to put her back in place and usually she can deal. <br />
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Lately she's been asking, "You ok, Mom?" just randomly. It is soooo sweet! <br />
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I look at her and I'm instantly happy (although that's true for all of my girls!) <br />
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She takes a tap/ballet class. First, those tiny tap shoes are the cutest.things.ever. Second, she just nails it! Definitely the youngest in her class but you could never tell. She follows every direction and is always on task. I wish I could stand at the door and watch her the whole time, but I have to take turns with the other parents ;) I just love watching her focus and interact with other adults and kids.<br />
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She talks extremely well...I really marvel sometimes at the things that come out of her mouth so clearly. <br />
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She likes to play with her sisters but can also hang independently. <br />
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She loves Miss Staci, their whole family, their house, their dogs...honestly it is her second home, and what a special place it is- filled with even more special people. They pretty much claim her as their own. The other day we pulled up and two of the kids ran out to greet Annie and walk her up. I walked behind them and just took a moment to be so thankful that she is SO well cared for and loved. Miss Staci is always kissing her, hugging her, and telling her, "I love you!" I mean, honestly- we are so, so blessed to call them friends! <br />
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I can't even put into words the love I have for this sweet baby. She is the most precious girl, the last baby...and we just adore her with everything we have!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-25783902148318233372016-08-24T05:02:00.000-04:002016-08-24T05:02:09.513-04:00Audrey Catherine is 7 1/2!<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6d634b3127cceec8b5989aaa100000040O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920160815103017662.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height=400" width=500"><br />
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Ugh, it's so hard to believe.<br />
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How is it that she'll be in second grade, the grade I taught for so many years? At one point it seemed like it would be FOREVER until she was in "my" grade level.<br />
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I'm very proud when it comes to Audrey- she is bright, outgoing, creative, responsible, caring, and kind. She thrives in school, academically and socially. She was identified for gifted last year and really loved working in Focus this year. She made so many new friends, the sweetest kids ever. I loved visiting her at lunch every day and seeing her laughing and talking with everyone. <br />
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She's very social- I admire that about her! When we went to the beach she had a blast hanging out with the boys (while Abby preferred to do her own thing- like organize their bedroom, lol.)<br />
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She convinced me to dye her hair back in April. She'd been wanting to dye it forever...but there was no way I was using real dye, so we did Kool-Aid instead (and we waited until after Picture Day, lol.) I can't believe it's still in there! <br />
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Her smile (although now with large, crooked teeth!) still lights up the room and is one of my most favorite things in the world. I just love that sweet face.<br />
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She and Abby are best buds- they play all day together. I have to smile when I hear the things they come up with. The other day Audrey was following Abby around with my old iPhone, taking videos. Audrey was singing a song she made up..."Oh she's in the spotlight...she's just so beautiful..." as Abby was twirling and dancing like a superstar...I died. She'll complain if Abby doesn't play with her. <br />
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She's still having a hard time being alone on the new house. She doesn't want to be on any level by herself, and she complains about her bedroom being so far from ours. She still loves snuggle time and falling asleep with momma :) <br />
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It seems like most things come easy to her, but she does work hard when she needs to. Whether it's learning to ride without training wheels, studying for a test, working on school work during the summer...she's very self-motivated. One day at the beach she taught herself how to ride the boogie board. She loves to read and write. I offered to get her a new Leap Pad game for when we traveled, but she asked for books instead :)<br />
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She claims to be done with skirts and dresses, although she'll wear them every once in awhile to appease me. She does not want to take dance class this year; she wants to try soccer and gymnastics. <br />
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She's a wonderful role model for her little sisters and the apple of our eyes. Before we know it, Little Miss Sunshine will be EIGHT!! <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-22279859867856817282016-06-24T16:04:00.003-04:002016-06-24T16:04:43.373-04:00Kindergarten Year in Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxo-OzGwZsFz1tsOvkOayS4DH6oremKBqlzdpAN6TxM9AFJu0sLa1UFaRsdM6d1GvXeWi5RG8kGML-HNqfg7A3Xi9OCWFbvovDajv8QQx7yI0fYGdJJwHTh3wWi_XzHJFiIQGO6LJCnU43/s1600/6bea18246a8df4540a76152320506b95.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxo-OzGwZsFz1tsOvkOayS4DH6oremKBqlzdpAN6TxM9AFJu0sLa1UFaRsdM6d1GvXeWi5RG8kGML-HNqfg7A3Xi9OCWFbvovDajv8QQx7yI0fYGdJJwHTh3wWi_XzHJFiIQGO6LJCnU43/s320/6bea18246a8df4540a76152320506b95.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So, that was awesome!!<br />
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Deciding to take the leap of faith and try Kinder was the best decision of my entire career, no joke. I remember how nervous I was to hit the "send" button on my email to my principal. I'm so glad I did...I've found my happy place.<br />
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I could list hundreds of things I love about Kinder, but I'll stick to the highlights.<br />
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OH. MY. WORD. THEYARETHECUTESTTHINGSEVER!!!<br />
Yes, 2nd graders are sweet and cute, but 5 years olds? Oh my- they still have baby faces and baby voices and I could just squeeze their sweet cheeks every day!! This age just captures my heart for so many reasons.<br />
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CURRICULUM<br />
The opportunity to work with beginning learners- even those who are above- is just awesome. There's something so incredible about starting on the ground floor and working up; their progress within a year is just astounding. Most of them came in knowing some of their letter sounds and now they are freaking READING. When it comes to math I love teaching them the basics (counting, writing numbers) versus double digit subtraction. When I taught upper grades it was so, so challenging to work with students who had been struggling years before they got to me. They made progress, but they were still behind their peers come end of year. It was discouraging. Know I know how vital their early learning is to their success in later grades. <br />
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PARA<br />
I have HELP!! And she is amazing- she's there to support in every way-in any way- I need. For one, just having an extra body in the classroom is a GODSEND. Someone to tie shoes, answer questions, help with crafts, manage behavior...the list is seriously endless. I wish every elementary teacher could have a para. I share her with another Kinder teacher, and it just works beautifully. <br />
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TESTING & GRADING<br />
Kinder still has testing, but it's very minimal. Grading is just a breeze compared to upper. A BREEZE.<br />
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HOMEWORK<br />
NONE. I don't like homework. I hate how it encroaches on home time. In the upper grades I tried to make it easier on families by having weekly packets that weren't due until Friday. This year I only asked that they read 20 minutes each night. I only sent packets home for expected Snow Days (not required work, just for fun.) I also sent website links and made accounts for ABC Mouse so they could have the extra practice if they wanted. Next year I think I'll send home monthly homework packets, because I've realized that parents AND the kids actually like doing them (at their leisure.) The kids especially are so cute when they realize they can "do work," if that makes any sense? Just another reason I love this age. <br />
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WE SING. A LOT.<br />
My para helped me with this- singing really helps them learn. It seems so simple, but honestly, we just never did it very much in 2nd grade. From phonics songs on YouTube, to chants and rhymes we use daily...singing is a huge part of Kinder and I loooooove that. <br />
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It was weird having Audrey be older than my students for once! Although she's still shorter than most of them, lol. <br />
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Coming from an end of the year 2nd grade mindset to beginning of the year Kinders was an eye opener. I expected them to be doing waaaaay more than they were capable of. Some of them couldn't even write their name. Culture shock for sure. I know I'll feel it again come September, especially given the growth they made this year alone.<br />
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While teaching is not easy, I definitely felt more at ease this year because it was overall more enjoyable. It always comes down to the kids- they are truly the reason I love my job! I'm looking forward to spending the rest of my teaching years in Kindergarten (maybe even looping up with a special class or two?) When you are blessed to spend your days with children, they become apart of your heart. This was an amazing year and I'm looking forward to many more! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-10669006731322655672016-06-18T18:35:00.002-04:002016-06-18T18:35:25.706-04:00Abigail Mae is FIVE!<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6d839b3127cceec306030ff9f00000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920160618221728469.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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Oh, that face...I am totally in love with this beauty!<br />
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She is beautiful inside <i>and</i> out. She melts our hearts with the kindness she shows her little sister. She's constantly trying to give Annie things, or trying to make her happy. I think she's very good with younger kids; she really likes being the role model/teacher. <br />
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She is quick and witty. So often I find myself repeating what she said to Chris because she's just so <i>funny</i>. I love how she uses large words.<br />
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I get one on one time with her in the morning...she's back to being the early riser and I love hearing her little footsteps making their way down the stairs. Other than that, Audrey usually steals her away the rest of the day, lol. <br />
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She and Audrey are best friends. They play together all the time. Recently Abby had a sleepover at Grandma's and Audrey didn't know what to do with herself, lol. They play school, dress up, and just have so many adventures together. I dread the day Audrey outgrows these things. It makes me feel better to know Abigail will have Annie to play with, but there is something so special about Audrey and Abigail's relationship. I hope they stay close as they grow older. <br />
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She's a great helper. She unloads the dishwasher and moves clothes from the washer to the dryer. She "cleans" her room. <br />
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She's SO ready for kindergarten. She knows & writes her letters and sounds and can count (but she CANNOT say 13! She says,"eleven, twelve, firteen, fourteen..."...that "th" digraph is impossible for her, lol!!) I was scoring my students' spelling assessment and she asked if she could do one. I called out the 5 words and watched in amazement as she carefully sounded out each word. The first 3 words she got the beginning and ending sounds...she spelled the last 2 words perfectly! In Kindergarten she will definitely need to be challenged while having opportunity to express her creativity.<br />
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She is so theatrical. She likes to act and sing. The world is her stage! I hope she keeps that confidence her entire life.<br />
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She's highly sensitive. We definitely have to take a different approach when disciplining her. She needs comfort and calmness, something I'm trying really hard to remember (when she loses her cool, I lose mine!) I just do not understand her rush to cry, whine, and complain the moment something displeases her. Chris is way more empathetic. I want to be better for her.<br />
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I am not trying to rush her to grow up, but I seriously cannot wait to see her in the halls at school so I can kiss that beautiful face every time I see it! I love that she has had her own time in preschool, with her own friends and teachers and experiences. That is so important. It's given her a sense of independence that she definitely needed. I like that we all do our own things during the day, then come together to talk and reflect and laugh...there's a lot of teachable moments that come out of those times. It's something I know will be vital as they get older and go through middle and high school.<br />
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She fascinates me every day. I still can't believe how much my heart expanded on the day she was born. She's our little buttercup!! <br />
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<img SRC="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6d839b3127cceec3154f35e3a00000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920160618221756985.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500">Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-78893742123391499262016-04-01T19:37:00.000-04:002016-04-01T19:44:05.115-04:00Anne Elizabeth is two and a half!<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6da20b3127cceeb962163c3b500000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920160401233456557.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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This baby may be in the middle of the Terrible Twos...but she's so terrifically wonderful at the same time! And so darn CUTE.<br />
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Terrific: Annie is very much the clown. She is SO silly and loves to make us laugh. She always has to announce, "I farted!" <br />
Terrible: She thinks it's hilarious when she gets to flush the toilet- she looks at me and says, "Hahd, ha, I did it...nah nah nah boo boo!" What?! And sometimes, when she "apologizes", she says it very sarcastically: "Sor-ray!"<br />
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Terrific: She's the best sleeper. Goes to bed around 7, wakes around 6. Takes a great 2+ hour nap. I put her down wide awake and she slowly puts herself to sleep. I've gone into her room to check on her and many times she'll just be laying there, smiling and dozing off. <br />
No terribles here! #sleeptrainingftw<br />
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Terrific: she has so much of her baby squishiness left. She gets countless kisses and squeezes every day!<br />
Terrible: She gets awful eczema flare ups. I'm ready for warmer weather where she can wear dresses that don't constantly rub the sensitive spots on her skin.<br />
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Terrific: She is potty trained except at night and during naps.<br />
Terrible: She waits for these times to do #2, so almost every time we get her out of bed she's stinky :) <br />
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Terrific: Her favorite song is Roar by Katy Perry. She wants it played again and again in the van. It's hysterical to watch her sing with such passion. I love listening to her sing it when she's waiting for us to get her out of bed in the morning. <br />
Terrible: She cries if I don't play it back to back to back (ugh.) <br />
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Terrific: She's saying too many words to list. She talks ALL the time! My favorite is when you say, "I love you!" and she replies, "I love you SO much!" I die when she says, "Pick up me!" LOL<br />
Terrible: "I don't want/like it!" and she definitely yells when she's mad, even when you can't understand her. I'll look at her and say, "You talk nicely, do not yell," THAT really upsets her.<br />
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Terrific: She likes to act like a puppy or a kitten. She'll crawl around making sounds and rubbing or pawing against my leg. <br />
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Terrible: When she gets mad she'll hit her sisters and yell. When she gets in trouble she'll cry uncontrollably, her feelings are SO hurt, you can just see it in her eyes. She's very sensitive about getting in trouble. I can see some stubborness in her.<br />
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Terrific: She's like Audrey in so many ways, her sensitivity and silliness especially. Her little body is holding a crazy big personality...just sit and have a conversation with her :)<br />
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Terrific: She is so polite, she says, "Thank you!" all the time. It sounds like "shay shoo," LOL!! <br />
Terrible: On the flip side, if something irritates her she'll yell, "Stop it!" I can usually get her to say, "Please, stop." <br />
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Terrific: She is SUPER independent and wants to do everything by herself. She is so good at taking off her own shirts and nightgowns. She gets the proudest look on her face as she wiggles out of them! I can tell her to go put her shoes on...and she DOES. I'm still trying to get the big girls to do that, lol.<br />
Terrible: She is SUPER independent and wants to do EVERYTHING by herself. Which takes forever sometimes. She wants to do her own car seat buckle. She wants to brush her own teeth after I do. <br />
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I swear. I look at her and my heart swells. I SO want to keep her this age for much, much longer. The teriffics outshine the terribles for sure. As much as I don't want her to grow so fast, I cannot wait to see how her little personality develops. We love our sweet Annie baby. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-26682937354031231122016-02-17T05:30:00.002-05:002016-02-17T05:30:42.450-05:00Sweet ValentinesThese girls make my heart so happy.<br />
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We had an awesome 4 day weekend thanks to President's Day AND a snow day. It was great to be holed up at home with zero plans.<br />
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Audrey earned a wonderful report card. So proud of that girl, I really love seeing her thrive. She still loves snuggle time with her momma :) She's doing much better sleeping in her own room and we've been letting her stay up later (8:00.) She says she feels much better when I'm upstairs as she's falling asleep. A couple times a week she'll fall asleep in bed with me and then Chris moves her when he comes to bed. I love that I get special one-on-one time with her every night when the littlest girls are fast asleep...<br />
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Abigail is my earliest riser and she comes down to snuggle with me on the couch every morning. I LOVE this one-on-one time with HER. I could just eat her up! She loves to read and write. She reads familiar books to me at bedtime, and to her baby dolls as well. She writes notes for Audrey's lunch box and asks me to bring home papers from Kindergarten for her to work on. She and Audrey "do work" when they play together, which consists of Audrey teaching Abby math, reading, and writing. Those girls!! When I pick her up from school, her teachers say, "She is SOOO fun to hang out with!" And she really is...it has been amazing to see her thrive socially. I watch her hug her friends as she leaves (she especially loves Lyla and Jason!) and it makes me so happy :)<br />
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Anne is such a clown. She is just so goofy! She can also be sassy if her older sisters are getting on her nerves, which is 90% of the time. She's very independent; when her big sisters are "working", she is completely fine doing her own thing. This is when I get my alone time with her, as well as before bed (she's the first one down and the last one up!)<br />
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I love them more than words can say. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-55850733285340046292016-02-07T13:54:00.001-05:002016-02-07T13:54:24.026-05:00Our House: Living RoomOh how I love this room!!<br />
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When we were going over our options, Chris was dead set against having a fireplace (for several reasons.) I was bummed- I grew up with a fireplace and I loved laying next to it after a long day of sledding and playing in the snow. I also wanted a mantel I could decorate!<br />
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He wouldn't budge and so no fireplace for us :( However, I am completely in love with our credenza! Originally we had planned to hang the tv but we really like the way it looks now (and I don't have to decorate the top!) As much as I thought I'd want a mantel to decorate, I'm kind of glad we don't have one...I'm way too indecisive and it would probably just be bare. <br />
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I had been staring at the blank wall across from the couch for weeks. I couldn't decide what to hang, and for me it was between two choices...a gallery wall or a 3x3 array of large white picture frames. I had already started gathering items for a gallery wall and I had another space in mind for the photo frame idea, so one morning I just picked up a hammer and started. I absolutely LOVE how it turned out! In the old house our tv wall stayed bare because I could not decide on how to decorate it. This time I was determined to NOT wait years to decide on something! <br />
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To do:<br />
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-style the credenza shelves<br />
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-hang more curtains on the big windows (the guys left out 2 panels for some reason?!)<br />
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-purchase the chair and a half for in front of the gallery wall<br />
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-buy a floor lamp or a small table & lamp to go with the chair and a half<br />
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-should we hang something above the tv?<br />
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-drill a hole in the small table and feed the lamp cord through<br />
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-possibly put a console table or <i>something</i> under the two mirrors<br />
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View from the kitchen<br />
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I love sitting here early in the morning with my coffee until Miss Abby comes down to snuggle with me. We can see the beautiful sunrise out of the side windows. The large picture window is my favorite! There is so much natural light that comes through, even on cloudy days I have to close the curtains, lol. <br />
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This room quickly came together and I really love it. It's so colorful- a complete switch from the boring beige of the old house. I'm hoping to carry out the colorful scheme throughout the first floor. <br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-85349149409908696202016-01-28T05:58:00.000-05:002016-01-28T05:58:05.788-05:00Our Home: Kitchen <img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6df05b3127cceeb6566c1350400000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920160124161616599.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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When I first walked into the Emerson model last December, I fell in love with how open the kitchen was. It doesn't feel separate from the living area at all. <br />
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There's plenty of room to move around and tons of counter space for food prep. It gets SO much light from the door and windows. I am so, so happy we went with the white/gray combination. It's so airy and cheerful and bright. It always looks so clean and fresh.<br />
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This space is really functional. Coffee mugs are above the coffee maker. The girls have the far right top cabinet for their snacks and the bottom cabinet for their plates/bowls/cups and containers, so I use this space to pack their lunches. <br />
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We like to keep the countertops as clear as possible. In the old house we had everything out and it not only limited our work space, but it just looked so busy and cramped, even when the kitchen was all cleaned up. We still have a toaster but after we use it and empty it, we put it away. We have plenty of drawers now, so there's no need for a canister of large utensils. Now we only leave out the essentials- coffee maker and knife block. We do leave the mixer out too, because it's pretty :) <br />
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Originally Chris was against having a drying rack. He said, "We'll wash them, dry them, and put them right away." HA. HAHAHAHAHAHA. Needless to say, we also leave out the drying rack.<br />
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With all the time we gained from moving closer, we can keep it much more tidy. And since it is so open to the main living area, it really needs to be kept that way. It also helps that we have a separate pantry and a ton of cabinets and drawers for storage space. It feels like we filled them all up pretty quickly!<br />
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Eating area:<br />
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Usually the girls eat at the island since they tend to be messy and sweeping the floor is much easier than busting out the vacuum. Even though we have a pocket office, I still like to work at the table because I have so many things to spread out...plus I like being in the middle of all the action :) <br />
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To do:<br />
-Decorate the wall between the window and the door. Also, do something with the wall between the eating area and living room. I welcome any advice/suggestions! <br />
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-Build a deck...oh that will be so lovely!! <br />
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-Get a centerpiece for the kitchen table.<br />
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One of my favorite things about the kitchen is the island. I love to see all three girls sitting there, enjoying meals and each other. I sure do love these faces and the new memories we're making in this house!<br />
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<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6df06b3127cceeb62a5c4bdc100000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920160128020124914.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500">Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-16049131000763191052016-01-22T13:13:00.000-05:002016-01-22T13:13:22.415-05:00Our Home: The PlayroomInitially I wanted to go bright and colorful with the playroom. I had so many awesome Pins for inspiration.<br />
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Then I came across this beauty and my plans completely changed! Their bedrooms are bright and cheerful, so I felt really good about making this room a little more serene. In the far future it will be a full fledged office.<br />
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We had decided not to paint the playroom gray like the rest of the house, so I knew that gold would look great with the beige walls. We bought the large beanbags and pillows for the girls for Christmas (confession- I bought the Hello Lovely pillow first because I can't pass up anything with the word lovely...it's my <b>favorite</b> word!) <br />
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I love the alligator toy box! It totally does not go with the decor, but if it has a gator, I need it. Once the girls have outgrown it I'm sure it'll be going to my classroom! We also have a ton of nesting boxes that we use for toys.<br />
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Love these windows!<br />
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To do: <br />
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-We have a PBK table and chairs to put here, but it's currently being used in my classroom. I honestly think I'll leave it there until Summer break. I like having the playroom floor wide open.<br />
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-Organize the closet...it's crazy! It has several wire shelves that are super deep. I am committed to getting rid of lots of stuff, but it's hard to part with things I think they're going to miss! However it seems like every time I go in there to clean, I end up with a box full of things to take to Goodwill :)<br />
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-We're going to add a strip of cork board underneath the Instagram posters. We need all that space for their amazing creations!<br />
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-Set up the art easel.<br />
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-Find a picture or printable for the 8x10 frame on the shelf.<br />
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Having a playroom is invaluable and was another deciding factor when choosing this particular floor plan. The fact that it's right off the main living area and we can close the door? So perfect. <br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-26114944684395808302016-01-18T09:37:00.000-05:002016-01-18T09:37:17.362-05:00Our home: MudroomWhile it's nowhere near being "done," I wanted to post some pictures so that we have a record of what it looked like when it was new (and clean!) I'm going to post each room separately because if I save it all for one post it'll never get done!<br />
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The mudroom is such a lifesaver. In our old house there was no spot to drop backpacks, coats, shoes, and bags. Our dining room table ended up being the drop zone because it was right next to the kitchen where I packed lunches, checked backpacks, etc. When we were looking at floor plans, this new house won <i>because</i> of the mudroom. <br />
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This part of the house is super functional. The mudroom is right off the garage AND next to the kitchen. The pantry is on one end and the laundry room is on the other. There is also a coat closet where we keep extra coats, mine and Chris's shoes, and the vacuum and broom and step stool.<br />
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The girls know their routine; shoes off and in their basket, backpacks put on the bench (Abigail likes to go a step further and stand <b>on</b> the bench to hang hers up- LOVE her!) We usually don't have coats hanging around because we're just a few steps from the van :)<br />
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Chris made the rack above the bench and he painted an old mirror, two things I definitely needed in there right away. <br />
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To do: I have picture frames to hang above the hooks, and I'm searching for matching floor rugs. We still need to get shutters (or even just a cheap set of blinds) for the laundry room window. We also need to organize our pantry.<br />
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Every time I walk into the house I'm grateful for this room. Even when it's a mess it looks organized!<br />
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Now we have a space for all of our stuff...it's convenient as we're coming and going and our kitchen table stays (relatively) empty! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-29077514328877433112016-01-09T10:52:00.003-05:002016-01-09T10:55:09.053-05:00Audrey Catherine is SEVEN!<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a6df28b3127cceeb47073a1b1400000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920160109152701405.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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Seven...it's so hard to believe! Partly because she still looks like she's five, lol.<br />
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Audrey is such a darling girl. She's funny, positive, and kind. I wish I were seven so I could be her BFF. She is silly, good-natured, and hilarious. She loves to draw and write, and she is so creative. I'm amazed at how she reads...she bought a chapter book at the book fair and actually reads it to herself!<br />
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She has such a tender heart. We definitely have to discipline her with a sensitive approach.<br />
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She is getting more opinionated with her wardrobe- she mostly wants to wear jeggings and t-shirts. She's denounced frilly dresses- she absolutely would not wear a cute red dress I picked for a Christmas party. BUT she loves her navy and white striped a-line dress (it's been hanging in her closet for 2 years...that's how much I loved it!!) I love that she's getting her own sense of style. I had her put on the red dress, thinking she'd change her mind or just go with it- but she was truly miserable and I decided right then and there I would NEVER argue with her about clothes. So long as they are appropriate, she can wear what she pleases.<br />
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We had her birthday party a few weekends ago and over 30 kids came to celebrate! She has formed so many wonderful friendships. I love hearing her talk about all the sweet kids and the daily interactions she has with them. The start of my lunch coincides with the end of hers...when I walk up to her table, I always see her laughing with her friends, sometimes the ones from another class, lol.) She gives me hugs and kisses and begs me to stay (will this be the last year she does this?!) It's such a treat for me to see her in the middle of the day. <br />
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One of the things I love most about Audrey is her radiant joy. She's so delightful and sincere and genuine. I could cry when I think of how fast she has grown. Especially with leaving the old house, and all the baby memories of her there...it's all just too much. But I could not be more proud of the sweet young lady that she is. <br />
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She is so giving. When she opened her birthday gifts, she was more than happy to give away TWO Monster High dolls (which was the ONLY thing she asked for her birthday) to Abby and Bella because she already had one. Brand new dolls! I couldn't believe it. She impresses me every day.<br />
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A couple of weeks ago my father passed away. I can't bring myself to write fully about it just yet; I couldn't speak at his funeral- I couldn't even find the right words to write down so that the pastor could read them. I told Audrey that I was sad and I just couldn't write down what I was feeling. The night before the funeral she sat down and wrote about Pop Pop. She said she wanted to read it and she DID. She got right up in front of everyone and read about her Pop. I've never been more proud.<br />
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I recently read an article written by a father of girls; his response to the typical "poor dad of girls" comments really resonated with me..."It only gets better." I definitely see this with my girls, especially with Audrey. We are so close- our conversations are so meaningful and go beyond, "How was your day?"- she knows she can tell me anything. We gets each other's jokes (I make some awesome Mom jokes and she just cracks up!) We love to be silly together, to snuggle with each other, to communicate everything we're feeling. I truly feel like I'm raising my best friend.<br />
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Seven years ago I fell madly in love with her- I didn't know that it would just get better and better :)<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-75654872907443933332015-12-06T06:49:00.003-05:002015-12-06T06:51:08.439-05:00Week 19: Moving in<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cc27b3127cceea988ca6ff3500000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151206113853412.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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On Monday we closed on our new home. What an awesome adventure it has been. The entire building process went smoothly. Once we got through the permit process it went so quickly!<br />
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After closing we grabbed some lunch on the way back to the house. Earlier in the day Chris had picked up a few household things (ceiling fans, broom, step stool, etc.) I brought Audrey's bed, the new Christmas tree and our entry console table. The house hadn't been cleaned yet, so most of the stuff went into the garage.<br />
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As Chris tinkered with a few things, I wandered around, playing with light switches and just sitting in each room envisioning where furniture would go. It was nice just to enjoy the empty, silent space.<br />
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Of course it rained on Tuesday (furniture delivery day) and Wednesday (for realsies moving day.) Of COURSE it did. But everything went smoothly and on Wednesday after school I took the girls to pick up some Chick-fil-a and then we went to our new home :) The movers had a few things to finish up and then they were gone. We put Anne's crib together and she went right to bed. Audrey and Abby had a sleepover in Abby's room. They slept wonderfully, too. Chris went to the store to pick up a few things. I cleared the kitchen of all the boxes so we'd have a nice clean kitchen to work in. When he got home we put up our bedroom curtains and made up the bed. I didn't have to work the next day so I was completely energized and motivated, lol.<br />
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On Thursday I took the girls to school and Staci's. Then we worked in the kitchen while the cable/internet guy worked on setting everything up. We went to lunch and then did a bunch of shopping for household stuff & groceries. I picked up the girls and brought them home (I FREAKING LOVE OUR SHORTER COMMUTE!!) That night we had an issue with the dishwasher (something wasn't tightened properly and it caused a water leak which caused the smoke detectors to go off- sheesh!!) Luckily it was resolved quickly. <br />
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On Friday I dropped off the girls and went straight home. Chris had already left to go work at the old house (so weird to call it that.) I felt like Kevin from Home Alone. Big house, all to myself...I blasted the Christmas music and put up the tree, lol. Afterwards I worked solidly for hours on unpacking and I made tremendous progress. When Chris got home we got ready and picked up the girls. We took them to Grandma's for a sleepover, then headed to downtown for his holiday work party. After a week of craziness, sitting back with drinks, yummy food, and awesome people was just what we needed :) Poor Chris has been through the wringer this week- he handled the move by himself and he was sick...he really needs some plain old down time to just rest and relax.<br />
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On Saturday morning Chris went to the clinic (because being sick wasn't good enough- he now has pink eye!) and then went to work. I drove down to the old house and cleaned out the rest of my stuff- I made a trip to the dump and Goodwill. When I was doing my final walk through, I found an old fortune that I had saved. It couldn't have been more perfect timing: <br />
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As if I weren't teary enough! It made me so sad to see our house all emptied out. My most treasured moments have happened in that house. I wish I could have avoided going. I was completely fine when the girls and I left on moving day. Chris was quick to remind me that we still own it, lol. Soon it will be cleaned up and ready for the market for another lucky family to make memories in. <br />
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Chris came home from work early and it was the first night we all just relaxed. We LOVE this house. There is still so much to do, but for now it is functional for us. Winter break is just 2 weeks and 2 days away!<br />
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I can't wait to completely decorate. It's going to be a long time before it's all done (and is it ever really ALL done?) Our home is already super functional (thanks to a mudroom and pocket office!) My goal is to make it cozy, warm, and inviting. I want it to be free of clutter, where everything has a place. We're gong to focus on creating new habits so that it stays clean and organized. I'm excited to watch these girls grow in this house!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-20612957080394134192015-11-29T12:54:00.000-05:002015-11-29T12:54:02.057-05:00Week 18: ThankfulSo much to be grateful for.<br />
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My family...no doubt about it, nothing would mean anything without them. Chris is my best friend and together we've created such a beautiful life. Our girls are the best blessing we could ever hope for. We wish for their continued health and happiness in the coming years.<br />
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My job...I don't even think of it as a job. It's just part of who I am and what I do. I am SO thankful for the children I get to spend time with everyday. I love Kindergarten so much I wish I could marry it. I'm grateful that my work is so rewarding and fulfilling; I couldn't imagine doing anything else.<br />
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My home...we're moving in less than a week. It's going to be very difficult to leave the place we've called home the last 9 years. It's the only home our girls have ever known. It's been the place for the best memories I have. I am beyond thankful to have made this place a wonderful home as we started our family. Now we're moving on to another home. I am grateful to Chris for working so hard in his career to afford us this opportunity. We've built our dream home and we get to raise our three incredible girls there. <br />
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House updates: Grandpa has been working hard all week! I'm happy to report that the new door color is EXACTLY what we were envisioning and we are completely in love with it! <br />
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Chris has been off since Tuesday and he was dying to see it all in person. So on Thanksgiving morning we took the girls. They loved seeing their painted bedrooms- they were over the moon with excitement. I really love the gray we picked for the walls and the way it looks with the kitchen and front door. <br />
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Chris will do the final walk through on Monday morning and then I'll meet him for closing in the afternoon. On Tuesday all the new furniture we ordered will get delivered (fingers crossed!) The movers come on Wednesday, so when the girls and I leave for school it will be our last time in the house :( I took off Thursday and Friday so I can unpack while the girls are gone. I can't believe it's finally moving week! We've been busy packing the past few days. It's a lot of work and takes more time than I realized. Luckily the girls have been so good about staying entertained while we're busy. Audrey & Abigail play for hours on end (they are best buds!) and Anne is happy to play with or without them, lol. Speaking of Anne, she now goes pee on the potty! She skipped the froggy potty and training seat. Her face is priceless when she goes- she's sooo proud of herself!<br />
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This next week is going to be exciting and exhausting. Hoping for a smooth-as-possible transition!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-46296878437236298452015-11-22T14:25:00.000-05:002015-11-22T14:25:22.273-05:00Abigail Mae is 4 1/2!My word. I might be a little obsessed with this one :)<br />
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Abigail is just fascinating to me. I just want to shrink myself and be carried around in her pocket for a day, lol. I can't even put my finger on it. I just love to watch her talk, think, interact, and play. I seriously cannot get enough of her!<br />
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She is so smart. She knows how to get what she wants, but she also knows when to back down. She is passionate and loves fiercely. She has attitude and sass and can be unpredictable. <br />
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She has matured so much. Last school year she would cry when I left her at home. Now she just asks that I wake her up before I go so she can give me a hug and kiss :) HOWEVER, she has just recently reverted back to being sad....see? Unpredictable!<br />
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She's still a terrible listener. Completely selective. You can call her name 10 times and she won't acknowledge you until she wants to. Even when you *think* you have her attention, she'll say something completely unrelated to whatever you were just talking about. So frustrating, yet so funny (sometimes.)<br />
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She's become so good at drawing. I think she's learned a lot of technique from Audrey, but she definitely has her own flair. She really likes to write. She can spell her name and simple words like mom, dad, love. She likes to play with her princess toys, Minnie clip on set, and dolls. She loves to read, especially her e-readers and Violet read to me books.<br />
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She enjoys playing outside and taking baths. She is early to bed and early to rise. She can be very particular when it comes to routine, just like her momma. She really loves school and is excited to go every day. I seriously cannot wait until she's in kindergarten with me and Audrey next year. <br />
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She calls Audrey, "Audge." How cute is that?? I die every time she says it, lol. They spend hours together in her room playing. They are best buds. She is just the BEST big sister to Anne. It's one of my most favorite things about her.<br />
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Abigail has our hearts and we love her more than words could ever say. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-80168711236173008142015-11-22T04:09:00.001-05:002015-11-22T04:16:13.532-05:00Week 17: PSD and Front Door Debacle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepF3EhKy9O-z2ZRuMYjwsNI5k_NumboRk9lYa3HQfXCZy_T98Av1pFYmJAGDk3LtlBbYLgVP6YstZn3m6XIWxMw8__cObuFGx3p1ioaccd4Gy-RukB3a-kFBE0ghdbAFeQ4bvKwZJHTub/s1600/IMG_1582+%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepF3EhKy9O-z2ZRuMYjwsNI5k_NumboRk9lYa3HQfXCZy_T98Av1pFYmJAGDk3LtlBbYLgVP6YstZn3m6XIWxMw8__cObuFGx3p1ioaccd4Gy-RukB3a-kFBE0ghdbAFeQ4bvKwZJHTub/s400/IMG_1582+%25281%2529.jpeg" /></a></div><br />
Early in the week they painted our front door. Yeah, it didn't come out the way we expected.<br />
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On Thursday I left school early with Audrey and we met Chris and our project manager at the house. I was hoping the door would look better in person. It did not. <br />
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Chris sought some other opinions and Miss Melanie came up with a much more muted color. Fingers crossed! It needs to look good on the exterior and interior, because we really wanted that pop of color in the entryway. Grandpa is coming to paint everyday next week except Thursday :) I'm glad it will ALL be done before we close on the house!<br />
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Other than that, the walk through was awesome! So glad I didn't skip it. But I really didn't want to leave. It was sooo hard to leave :( <br />
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We're adding more sod, plants got put in yesterday (Chris took pics on his camera and it all looks lovely), and it has to be painted. I finally got around to ordering curtain rods. We close NEXT Monday and then the fun of moving begins!!! All this week I'd say to the girls, "This is our last school Wednesday in this house!" or "This is our last Friday on 95!" I packed most of my clothes last weekend after I figured with Jeans Week and my days off I only need 5 school outfits. I'm so giddy right now.<br />
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We only have school 2 days next week, so I probably won't go to the house again until we move. Chris, on the other hand, will probably go every single day and send me pics :) Actually, he's lucky to have off Wed-Fri so we'll be getting a tons of packing done. We can't wait!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-33130890913626230892015-11-16T04:33:00.001-05:002015-11-16T04:33:45.897-05:00Week 16: quality inspectionNot too much to report on this week! We had some rainy days which threw off the driveway and landscaping plans. Chris ordered all the area rugs and finalized the custom paint colors.<br />
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Only a few pics. I didn't go by and probably won't until our pre-settlement demo this week. Chris said they did the driveway on Friday and *maybe* the landscaping will be done by our PSD. I'm really excited to see the front door once it has been painted...I'm hoping it turns out like the rest of the house...better than we're expecting!<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf35b3127cceeac9452bb28900000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151114103918663.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf35b3127cceeac9ee63733c00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151114103916321.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
There's a heart on our island counter :)<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf34b3127cceeaca04440b0e00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151116002447502.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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Patio...where I'm sure Christopher will be spending many nights with a beer in his hand :)<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf34b3127cceeacaf987ca1b00000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151116002433686.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
Driveway is nice and wide, which is awesome because I have the WORST spatial awareness. I definitely hit another van back in June while trying to park. In our current house I turn right into the garage. I joked with Chris that I wouldn't be able to turn left (Zoolander!)<br />
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I can't believe this is our last full school week in the house! After that is Thanksgiving week, then closing/moving week! Yipppeeee!!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-13289342201882061762015-11-08T07:01:00.000-05:002015-11-08T07:01:28.496-05:00Week 15: IDK, a bunch of stuff!I was able to stop by on Tuesday after school. It was a work day and I brought Abigail with me because Chris has had TWO one-on-one days with her recently and I was getting jealous :)<br />
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<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf27b3127cceead95ce74a9e00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151107004203362.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
That is some crazy afternoon light coming in!<br />
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<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf27b3127cceead825c12a5000000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151107004204706.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
View of the kitchen from the playroom door<br />
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Hood stack is done! I love the kitchen now, but I can't wait to see it with the new paint!<br />
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<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf27b3127cceead854776a4600000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151107004209439.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
I had to take a picture of this light. Might need to buy more curtains! <br />
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<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5cf27b3127cceead9d4414a7c00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151107004210299.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
Dining room light.<br />
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Stairs hadn't been finished, can you spot the mistake?? It has been fixed, thank goodness!<br />
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Master shower, love the gray and the size and the window!<br />
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Master vanity. I'm glad we have the side-by-side mirrors instead of the one large piece...less to clean!<br />
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Sweet Abby in mom and dad's room :)<br />
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A better picture of the carpet.<br />
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Anne's room<br />
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Upstairs hall. One of the first things I noticed and LOVED about the Emerson model was how wide the hall was. I just see a lot of playing and tackling and tickle fights in this hall :)<br />
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Can't wait to see the door painted! <br />
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The lighting is in and all the floors are done, but they were covered. Mirrors are up, too. I was SO excited to check out the upstairs...and I was extremely happy with the carpet. It's gray and it looks a lot lighter than the sample we looked at. I think it will look really good with all the different colors we're painting the bedrooms. We now have a mailbox and number sign above our door. <br />
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CORRECTION: I just learned our counters are NOT granite, they are quartz. I had no idea until Chris and I were talking about how to care for them. Good to know.<br />
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On Thursday we met Chris at the Emerson model for the Atlantic Builders chili cookoff. I hadn't been there in awhile, and I've never been there at night. It was so cool to walk around and know that in just a few short weeks we'll be walking around in our own! <br />
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The house was cleaned on Thursday and now I'm dying to see it. Our pre-settlement demonstration is in 2 weeks and originally I was going to skip it, but I'm too excited to stay away, lol. <br />
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Chris ordered a ton of tools this week. He's got big plans :) I finally ordered a bed for Audrey. Now I need a dresser. I want to check out our local thrift/antique shops because I LOVE the hand painted furniture they have. We also need area rugs for the living room, kitchen, and playroom. We're having a big area rug/runner made for the foyer that matches the runner on our stairs. I wish we could've left the stairs uncovered, but with 3 little kiddos that would be asking for trouble! I also need to order a bajillion curtain rods.<br />
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We've been trying to plan out our week of the move as far as things to get done on certain days. That includes having the house painted. We have our closing date, furniture delivery date, and moving date. Chris took off the entire week, I took two days off for unpacking. Seriously cannot wait.<br />
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Our awesome project manager worked all day yesterday on touch ups because QI is coming up this week. I'm not clear on what the schedule is for the next few weeks as far as driveway, landscaping, etc. I just know that after this weekend we only have 3 weekends to go! I'm so glad Thanksgiving break is our last week in this house- it gives us plenty of time to REALLY pack and Chris will be home with us :) <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-61942070018733331962015-11-01T19:30:00.002-05:002015-11-01T19:30:41.461-05:00Week 14: counters, backsplash<IMG src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce08b3127cceea2f6c8d19a800000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151029195128355.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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The kitchen turned out to be just as beautiful as I imagined. The mix of gray and white looks so classic and fresh. Chris chose gray cabinets for the pocket office and I'm really loving how it looks with the countertop! I did ask for the under cabinet lights and I'm glad I did- they are so cool! <br />
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The appliances are there. The induction cooktop and hood look great. The microwave had a dent so it's going back. I wonder what we'll cook first? <br />
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They were starting to lay the hardwood when I was there on Friday, and they'll work on the stairs this weekend. Next week they'll install the carpet, pave the driveway, and lay sod.<br />
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It will pretty much be done. Whoa.<br />
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Chris hired the movers. It's starting to get really real. I'm not even stressed, I'm excited. I love packing and planning. <br />
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We got a bunch of stuff for the house this week. I ordered a new Christmas tree (that bad boy is going up ASAP!) Our bedding arrived. Chris ordered me a robe hook ("Merry Christmas!" he said, lol!!) I picked up our living room curtains, a table lamp, a couple of decorative mirrors. Chris bought a TV so we can put our current one in the basement. <br />
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I still need to order a bed for Audrey. Abby will get Audrey's current bed and Anne will get Abigail's bed but we'll put the railing back on so she can kick it crib style for awhile longer (until she's 5 ;))<br />
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This week was hellish as far as our commute. Every damn day there was a traffic issue that either had me late to work (walking in 5 minutes before my babies!) or getting home late. I am so over it. I tried to give myself and the girls a perspective check, though; better to be stuck in traffic than part of the accident! Hard to imagine 4 more weeks of this, though :( I know it will fly by, especially with only 3 1/2 weeks until Thanksgiving break!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-83443683186305461392015-10-25T07:05:00.000-04:002015-10-27T05:09:42.325-04:00Week 13: tile and cabinets<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea250a9367ea00000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144841340.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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A lot was done this week in addition to the tile and cabinets: drain field and well, sidewalk, patio, metal roof, closet shelving, measuring for countertops, garage door & openers. <br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea24aea2c6f500000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144907092.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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I went by TWICE this week because I was so excited about the cabinets! They arrived on Monday and Chris was school-girl giddy about them, lol. He asked me to go over after school on Tuesday to get pictures. He said that he was SO glad I pushed for the white kitchen. He picked the gray island, and I LOVE IT! I absolutely love the pulls that he picked, too. I am really looking forward to seeing the countertops and backsplash.<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea25e14827dc00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144853866.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea25ee22e61900000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144905976.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
powder room<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea254d6a27a800000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144913243.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
master bathroom<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea257e98e6eb00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144920825.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
Anne's bathroom<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea25eed767dc00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144944237.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
Audrey & Abby's bathroom<br />
<br />
On Tuesday he only had Abby so they spent the day together and he took her to see the house first thing. She got to see her room and she's so excited. He picked up Audrey early from school on Wednesday (she had a slight fever, wasn't feeling so great), and he took her by, too. She got to see everything plus how they dug the well. She was fascinated :) I hope the girls can appreciate how much work goes into building a home. We're the first house on our street. I'm excited for them to see the other houses being built over the next few months.<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea252e39675200000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144835855.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
Thursday afternoon<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea25671ea6f900000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144820045.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea252fc7273400000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144806258.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea25d94ba6f300000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144750213.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
Pocket office, easily one of my favorite features of the house!<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea253b93276a00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144752881.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea25f866676600000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144751047.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
<br />
<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce05b3127cceea24e1ae077600000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151024144936767.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
Master shower<br />
<br />
Next up is wood flooring, countertops, appliances, electrical and plumbing finals, and driveway. Whoa!! Chris is meeting with a landscaper this morning...I'm giving him free reign over that project! Busy week for sure! <br />
<br />
Only 5 more weekends in this house after today! Mixed bag of emotions all up in here. Luckily I just don't have much time to dwell on being sad and sentimental. And "home" is wherever I am with Chris and our girls :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-59644023439847419182015-10-18T20:04:00.001-04:002015-10-25T07:06:02.995-04:00Week 12: stone and paintI'm in love with this house!<br />
<br />
I took Wednesday off, we dropped off the kids at their respective places, and went to the house to measure windows. The trim was finished and they were getting ready to prep for paint. When Chris took Audrey by later that afternoon they were getting ready to do stone and they were beginning to paint.<br />
<br />
Furniture shopping was so fun. We picked out living room stuff, master bedroom stuff, and a kitchen table set. We visited a bunch of places and it was pretty easy making decisions. We went to lunch for our 11 year anniversary :)<br />
<br />
We had been struggling to find a bench for the mudroom. Down the road we want to do built-ins, but we needed something we could put in there immediately. There are a bunch of storage benches out there, but Chris was set on getting a longer bench since our mudroom is pretty long. On my way home from school I always pass a cute little antique/thrifted furniture place. They always have a ton of pieces outside and I always hope to get stopped at the red light so I can check it out :) I was driving by on Thursday I saw a big gray bench sitting out there. I ended up reaching out to them on FB and they posted a picture of it. On Friday I sent it to Chris. He stopped by, loved it, bought it. In fact, he raved about how awesome the whole store was..."When you go to pick up the bench, if you see something you like that will fit in our house, YOU BUY IT!" I went to pick it up and we're using it already, it's perfect.<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea308d7939e600000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234421497.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea31f73019de00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234332262.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
mudroom<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea31d9df192600000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234321266.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
living room<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea309a83f8bf00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234322053.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
playroom<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea31b999195000000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234309912.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
kitchen<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea30b4a2f88900000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234315553.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea316ebc598600000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234314989.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
I think this is where we're putting the Christmas tree!<br />
<br />
<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea31d57a98b500000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234305449.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
powder room<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea300dc7391800000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234305775.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce39b3127cceea307c84f8cb00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151018234327936.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
can't wait to see these finished!<br />
<br />
The more I see the house coming together, the more anxious I get about packing this place up. Our closing is the Monday after Thanksgiving break. I do think that is great timing- we'll be able to do most of the packing over the break. We haven't decided what day we're moving in. It's just going by so quickly! Next week they're doing tile and cabinets. Yay!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-37108181616663624632015-10-11T15:52:00.001-04:002015-10-25T07:06:20.353-04:00Week 10 & Week 11Week 10: insulation & dry wall<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce30b3127cceea024523a45900000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151011100551044.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce22b3127cceea1291849deb00000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151003135247947.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce30b3127cceea02da54e4f900000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151011100552432.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce30b3127cceea027ce6652800000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151011100602949.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
<br />
So cool to see the drywall! I didn't go upstairs because they were working, but I did go into the basement for the first time. I am so glad that we're finishing it! We're putting the pool table, row machine, and our current living room furniture (and tv) down there. We're also putting our bedroom stuff in the den and finally upgrading to a King :)<br />
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<br />
Week 11: trim and prep for paint (inside) siding, board & batten (outside)<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce30b3127cceea0207cea49500000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151011100540015.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce30b3127cceea023f8125f600000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151011100558955.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce30b3127cceea02d7ef25ec00000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920151011100540496.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
<br />
I have to give credit where credit is due: Chris picked out everything...the elevation, siding, stone, b & b...he knows his stuff! I could sort of imagine it in my head, but it is way more stunning in real life! This week they'll be doing the stone...I am so excited to see the exterior all finished. <br />
<br />
Chris and I are excited about different things regarding the next few steps. I'm looking forward to seeing the kitchen and wood flooring. He's most excited about the landscaping (what?!) and our kitchen back splash. I am a little weary about our master bathroom...he changed the cabinets and I'm hoping it's not too dark overall. He is very skeptical about the carpet I picked for the upstairs & bedrooms. Apparently no one ever picks it...which makes me sort of nervous, but it was better than the alternatives in our budget (light carpet- never again! poop brown carpet- hideous.) I think it'll be great :)<br />
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I've been obsessed with the "fun" stuff now...looking at furniture and curtains. I just wish we didn't have to get so much. There are a gazillion windows that need coverings, we need all new living room stuff (including a tv), master bedroom set, a kitchen table & chairs, and area rugs. We're doing nothing to the dining room. It's just too much at once!<br />
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We're looking at a Nov. 30 closing date, which means we'll move the first week in December. The Christmas tree will be one of the first things set up :) Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-173588932685388652015-10-01T04:41:00.001-04:002015-10-01T04:41:58.128-04:00Anne Elizabeth is TWO!<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d706b3127cceea628a51046a00000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150927211137580.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"><br />
<br />
And of course it's gone by too fast!<br />
<br />
Anne is simply amazing. She is talking so much:<br />
<br />
"I want that!"<br />
"Mine!"<br />
"Catch!"<br />
"Please!"<br />
"Thank you"<br />
"Bless you!"<br />
"Up! Down."<br />
"I love you"<br />
"Go night-night."<br />
"What happened?"<br />
"Where (did) ____ go?"<br />
"Grandma's house?"<br />
<br />
Also:<br />
paci, milk, drink, tv, cookie, glasses, snack, cheese, outside, blanket (bee bee), van ("BAN!"), mermaid, bath, potty, counts to 3, says names of family & friends<br />
<br />
She sings along to the radio, usually catching just the ends of each line. Loves to dance along and makes the funniest/dramatic facial expressions. <br />
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She goes to the living room window, gets behind the curtain, and looks out the window while she poops. Yeah.<br />
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She loves food and she's a great eater.<br />
<br />
Interestingly, she doesn't like to be consoled by her sisters when she's upset. They try, she says, "NO!" and runs to me. If they try to give her something she doesn't want, she acts completely offended. <br />
<br />
She's a wonderful listener and follows directions amazingly. When we tell her to do something she says, "OK!" and DOES IT. Every night she picks out a book, or two, and she sits and listens as I read. Our favorites are "I Love You Through and Through", "Mommy's Best Kisses" and "Ten in the Bed." She has started "reading" along and she can predict parts of the story where I stop to tickle or kiss her. <br />
<br />
She LOVES Chris. Sometimes she'll just say, "I want Dad." She gets so excited when he walks in the door from work!<br />
<br />
She hates the idea of taking a bath, but once you get her in she's great.<br />
<br />
After we get her dressed she says, "I pretty!"<br />
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She loves to be chased and tickled. She's so fun, so loud, so full of energy.<br />
<br />
I don't know when we'll take her off the paci (uses it in bed only.) I don't know when she'll move to a toddler bed. I don't know when we'll potty train. I don't even care #thirdchild .<br />
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She loves her daily routine...up around 6, nap around 11, bed by 7. She lays right down and falls asleep (sometimes she'll straight up ask to go night-night.) I love that she happily goes to bed!<br />
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She likes to bring us things...if we leave a phone/iPad/laptop/eye glasses (you know, the expensive stuff) on the coffee table she brings it to us and says, "Here you go!" or "Here, Mom/Here, Dad!"<br />
<br />
Anne is just the best. She lights up our lives in a way only the baby of the family can. We love how her big sisters care for her and how she learns from them every day. She is our baby. She is two, and I know that she'll be way more of a "Terrific" than a "Terrible!"<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196695135529638694.post-35187052936833534032015-09-27T15:21:00.001-04:002015-10-01T04:42:33.282-04:00Week 8: HVAC & plumbing AND Week 9: electric & low voltageOn Monday I got to step inside the house for the very first time! Talk about excited!<br />
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<img SRC="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d738b3127cceea734ce42be800000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150919095157199.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img SRC="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d738b3127cceea7377daea6300000030O00AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150919095153677.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
<br />
I met Chris after work so he could stay out with the girls. I cannot believe this is going to be ours in just a couple of months..I'm so in love with the floorplan.<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d738b3127cceea7399c46b3a00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150919095141946.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
kitchen doors, looking from the garage door (mudroom)<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d738b3127cceea7250358a4b00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150919095222129.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
mudroom with linen closet and laundry room w/window<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d738b3127cceea7303f8ea7b00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150919095200138.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
living room<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d738b3127cceea72450fcae300000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150919095135392.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
playroom<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d738b3127cceea73bfe0ea3d00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150919095151430.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
living room<br />
<br />
I wanted to take more pictures but I got too distracted/overwhelmed. <br />
<br />
I went back again on Saturday (9/19) and walked through it with Chris. <br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7ce89b0f0200000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920110108661.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7d57bbee9900000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920110038964.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
standing in the dining room<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7c022e0fc200000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920110042086.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
Back wall of the kitchen<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7de914ee6900000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920110009225.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
front door<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7c40aa8e5700000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920105946032.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
basement<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7cb18f4fa200000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920105948776.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
view from the front door<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7c5e240fe600000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920105920199.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
foyer<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7cc7b7ce9100000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920105945728.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7c5a438eb300000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920105907233.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
upstairs<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7c5789cee700000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920105913808.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
master bedroom<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7d5b1bee3f00000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920105844785.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d701b3127cceea7ce5154f1200000030O10AcsmzRy3atWQPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00205579462920150920105857630.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"height="400" width="500"><br />
standing in the living room, looking at the kitchen<br />
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I love the stairs/foyer. Upstairs looks awesome, especially our master bedroom with all the windows. Chris will do our pre-drywall walk through this week. October will be a very busy month!<br />
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