tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52674642901271792912024-02-19T07:53:20.632-05:00Colwells in Carolina --- Blog Has Moved!catchingupcolwells.blogspot.com
We are a family in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia. Dustin served in the Marine Corps, and is now back in school and working in retail. I am an elementary school teacher and love my job! We are thrilled that after three years of making friends and memories in North Carolina, we are now back home in the Peach State!Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.comBlogger256125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-22562850090496117012014-01-02T23:09:00.000-05:002014-01-02T23:08:14.207-05:00Ch-ch-ch-changes!It has been over a <b>YEAR</b> since I have blogged, so I have a ton of catching up to do. As the title suggests, there are some big changes in our life, and thus in the blog as well. Dustin and I had a whirlwind 2013, which included moving from North Carolina back home to the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia. We both got wonderful jobs here in the Peach State, and Dustin is going back to school at Georgia State using his GI Bill benefits. We bought a lovely house in November, and have been busy working on lots of home improvement projects to go from "house" to 'home".<br />
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To reflect all the changes in our personal life, I have changed the name and address of the blog from "Colwells in Carolina" to "Catching up with the Colwells". You can find all new posts at <a href="http://catchingupcolwells.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">catchingupcolwells.blogspot.com</a>.<br />
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One of my New Years' Resolutions is to become much better at updating the blog with tidbits about our lives for family, friends, and fellow bloggers to stay in the loop. I hope that you and your family have a wonderfully Happy New Year!!</div>
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Here's a little recap of our year in pictures. Here's to hoping 2014 is just as amazing as 2013 was.</div>
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Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-85640758944929113422012-11-11T21:46:00.000-05:002012-11-11T21:46:07.703-05:00Send the Troops a Free CardThere is no time like Veterans Day to show our troops just how much we appreciate them. Luckily, Shutterfly is making this free and easy for you!<br />
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Shutterfly is thanking veterans by allowing you to send a free card to troops overseas during this holiday season. I know that my husband appreciated every piece of mail he received, since it often bummed him out to be missing holiday gatherings with family.<br />
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So back to Shutterfly's initiative. The mission is simple - to send a thank you card to every American hero. Just select a card from four different designs, add a personal message, and click send. Shutterfly will print and ship your card at no cost to you.<br />
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Please create a card for our troops, and if you can, share with your Facebook friends to spread the word. The cards are available on Shutterfly's Facebook page. Follow the link below to get started. it took me less than 2 minutes to make mine!<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/shutterfly/app_525739750774135">https://www.facebook.com/shutterfly/app_525739750774135</a><br />
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Thank you for thanking our Veterans.<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPadMrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-47122793222562978632012-11-08T21:30:00.000-05:002012-11-08T21:30:09.897-05:00My Marine's HomecomingPlease excuse the lack of posts lately. As the title suggests, my hubby is home, and we have been spending some wonderful quality time together! So here's the recap of the homecoming, now that I'm free to share all the wonderful details.<br />
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Everyone says to be prepared that dates and times will change, and often. Oh boy, they were right. We were given a four-day window, which soon became an arrival date (!). Then Hurricane Sandy tried to mess it all up and delay their return. He was suddenly due to come home at 10:00 p.m., but I decided to keep my request for a substitute teacher open for both the day of the return AND the following day. I'm glad I took both days off because after three more time changes, the guys arrived in the early afternoon on Thursday.<br />
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I spent the morning bouncing from spot to spot in the house putting together last-minute details. I vacuumed the house extra-good (my poor husband is allergic to our cat), and decorated the house with some red, white, and blue.<br />
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Then I was off to hang up my two beautiful banners. I think they turned out pretty nice! I felt like a zip-tie queen getting both shower curtains hung up in 5 minutes flat.<br />
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Then I headed back home to make a quick sign to take on base, and get myself all dolled up for seeing the hubby. I felt a huge rush of emotions as I drove the 30 minutes to the base, and actually teared up during the drive. Thank goodness for the waterproof mascara, because I think the months of stress were just finally starting to be lifted off my shoulders now that I knew he was en route to me. Before I knew it, I was in the company of some good friends I hadn't seen in a year, and then was the announcement to get out of the street because the buses were pulling up!<br />
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I couldn't find him at first, but when I did, I felt such a wonderful feeling of closure. This deployment was over! <span style="text-align: center;">Here are some of the happy photos of us. I will post another entry later about how we spent the rest of his first weekend back!</span><br />
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Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-51144138052789011972012-10-21T13:19:00.000-04:002012-10-22T06:41:16.755-04:00Shutterfly Holiday CardsWhen I heard that Shutterfly was once again giving bloggers the chance to share their favorite Christmas card styles with readers in exchange for a $100 Shutterfly gift card, I knew I had to jump on the opportunity. (So, disclosure: I am receiving a $100 gift card to write about these Christmas card offers).<br />
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It may only be October, but it is already time your get those wheels spinning in planning the year's <a href="http://bit.ly/RjyOos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">holiday cards</a>! We have already set up a mini-shoot with a local photographer to get some pretty photos taken for our cards once Dustin gets back from Afghanistan. I'm envisioning some cozy sweaters and scarves, and maybe a red flannel blanket making an appearance.<br />
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We have used Shutterfly for just about everything photo related since we got married back in 2010, and as a result our entire address book is saved to their site. This makes Christmas card ordering incredibly easy, because I always pay a little extra to get the envelopes already pre-addressed (and one year pre-stamped because I was running a little late). While you are on their site, go ahead and check out their special offers page to order personalized calendars, photo books, or other great stocking stuffers and gifts. The personalized calendars would be a great care package gift for a deployed loved one (wish I had thought of that earlier for Dustin).<br />
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I'm going to leave you with the designs I'm considering using this year. Check out your own favorites by visiting Shutterfly's holiday card selection!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple, graphic style - could be nice if we end up with a really good photo.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The red plaid pattern is working in this design.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards/stripe-of-peace-christmas-card-5x7-photo?productCode=1077265&categoryCode=93476&skuCode=1077266" target="_blank"><img height="231" src="http://cdn4.staticsfly.com/img_/publishing/styleSwatches/ssc/photocard/PHOTOCARD-103-4849-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1336413493000106124.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Something a little more bright and colorful</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This might be the winner!</td></tr>
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Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-43886359400323785392012-10-20T14:35:00.002-04:002012-10-20T14:35:38.380-04:00Wine and Design NightI have loved doing crafty, artsy things ever since high school. Not to a level where I would actually consider myself any good at it, but it is just an enjoyable hobby. So when I saw that the spouses from Dustin's unit were hosting a Wine and Design night on base, I had to say yes! And I am so glad I did.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">The drawing was already sketched onto the canvas, and the pros talked us through the painting, step by step. Everyone's paintings turned out unique, and it was a really fun night. Lots of snacks, wine, and laughter. It's hard to believe this is the last spouse event before hubby comes home!</span></div>
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Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-8648151966703443172012-10-07T22:41:00.002-04:002012-10-07T22:41:54.637-04:00Banner Making EventToday I headed to the USO in Jacksonville for a Banner Making event with my husband's unit. Knowing that it is time to start preparations for Homecoming makes my step just a little bit peppier lately!<br />
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Before I was ready to work on the banner, I had to get all my supplies ready ahead of time. I ordered some shower curtain liners (fabric) online through Amazon. I have decided I am going to make a navy sign and a black sign from me, and hang one on the Midway Park side of Lejeune, and the other one on the Tarawa Terrace side of the main gate. Plus, I ordered a white curtain for my class to decorate. We are going to make the hand print flag I have made for the past three years, but take it to the next level by letting the kids sign their names with a sharpie, and write a giant "Welcome Home Heroes" to the top of the sign. I can't wait to start that project together!<br />
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Back to the topic of making my banner. I have been tinkering around on the computer to design my signs, and once I was all ready I printed the letters out in giant font. I laid the letters out on the shower curtain, cut out the letters, and then stenciled them with a white crayon.<br />
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Then I was all set to work on painting with the other wives down at the USO. It took forever since I had to do the work on the floor, but it was fun to work in the company of the other families, and chow down on some free Girl Scout cookies! I ended up painting about half of my base white coat, so that the other colors will really pop on top of the white. I am going to leave you with some progress shots, and I am hoping I will have my two banners finished a week from now!<br />
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Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-35980271469499125392012-10-03T21:33:00.000-04:002012-10-03T21:33:02.264-04:00Debate Time!I'm not going to get political here, but I have to say that tonight I am watching the presidential debate. I love hearing about the issues, but feel so uncomfortable for both of them. I can't imagine how nervous they must both be!<br />
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I love to think about just how wonderful it is to live in a country where citizens can peacefully debate, discuss, vote, elect, and completely transition government offices every 2 - 4 years. What a great country and I am so proud to be married to an amazing Marine who helps to make these wonderful freedoms and rights possible for everyone living here! And that handsome hubby will be is getting closer and closer to coming home every day - keep posted for updates of the homecoming projects and banners I am beginning to work on! Here's a little sneak peak of a project I finished last night:<br />
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Speaking of elections, I am thrilled that I am heading up a mock election at my school this year, and will be collaborating with over 100 schools through the blog of another teacher I follow. I can't wait to see how the kids' choices compare to the adults on election day! </div>
Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-40705794703348704322012-09-30T23:03:00.000-04:002012-10-04T19:24:00.065-04:00Autumn Wreath-maniaWith the husband deployed for nine months and counting now, it seemed just about the right time for me to knock off some items on my Pinterest to-do list. Several trips to Michaels later, and I have some lovely handmade fall wreaths hanging in my house now!<br />
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Here was my "pinspiration"<br />
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Source: <a href="http://kimmccrary.blogspot.com/2011/01/pinked-felt-wreath.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">kimmccrary.blogspot.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/jenheartsdustin/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Jennifer</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrACdLKDP23byipKR4KG02jS0XKrzDzpZFPgvtKSdtd4xwB1O2RkOws1671byfYPh1B6-hSy1c2xOkX5c9F1wz-zbecJAqSmHgH4THaZYKx6lgFd77Nspxox-rrSDJyJKp1HVPoTLha_U/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrACdLKDP23byipKR4KG02jS0XKrzDzpZFPgvtKSdtd4xwB1O2RkOws1671byfYPh1B6-hSy1c2xOkX5c9F1wz-zbecJAqSmHgH4THaZYKx6lgFd77Nspxox-rrSDJyJKp1HVPoTLha_U/s320/026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This first wreath seemed to take forever! I used some pinking shears to cut sheet after sheet of orange felt into 3-inch circles. Then I folded them into sixths, and pinned them into my foam base. Afterward, I clipped on a black spider decoration and added black ribbon for the spider's web, and a larger ribbon to hang the wreath. It still feels like it is missing a little somethings, so I think I'm going to add some black letters saying EEKS! I'll update the photo after I get that finished.<br />
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And wreath #2 "pinspiration", followed by my version.<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/116389971590676517/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="362" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/236439049157085995_g8Tpz8Py_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://craftingmom.com/fall-wreath-with-felt-rosettes/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">craftingmom.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/jenheartsdustin/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Jennifer</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfG-dVni4rWbWL5pTGnVyW9KoPos8MCj25lcE0NVfDyVLx90wvRi6JCEcYsvCt_09CISRHEDEBXJBmTwlHOJ08k820k-CpII6ldHjmFvKFaR21M-6y3EexYqrlM_i2Cmi8pDljopU-OfE/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfG-dVni4rWbWL5pTGnVyW9KoPos8MCj25lcE0NVfDyVLx90wvRi6JCEcYsvCt_09CISRHEDEBXJBmTwlHOJ08k820k-CpII6ldHjmFvKFaR21M-6y3EexYqrlM_i2Cmi8pDljopU-OfE/s320/022.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This wreath was a much quicker project - only 15 minutes! I bought a plain twig wreath from Michaels. Then I added a couple sprays of beaded garland, and made felt ribbons. The felt ribbons were made by simply cutting felt into long strips. I wound the strips around and around. When one strip ended, I incorporated the next strip where it left off. I think the colors from this wreath match beautifully with our family room decor, and should be able to stay up until Thanksgiving! Here is a photo of the original wreath, and then my version.<br />
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I am linking this project up with The Pinterest Challenge. And in Thirty Handmade Days' Friday Pity Party. And in the Halloween Link Up Party. Join in the fun by clicking the links below!<br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterestchallenge.com/"><img alt="I'm Topsy Turvy" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6618418539_818e3645db_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/">http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.aprettylifeinthesuburbs.com/2012/10/halloween-link-partaaaaay.html"><img alt="momnivores dilemma" height="166" src="http://www.theclassroomcreative.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/halloween-link-party-2012-skull-001.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<span style="background-color: #bd201b; font-family: Candara, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;"><a href="http://onecreativemommy.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="OneCreativeMommy.com" height="125" src="http://onecreativemommy.com/images/OneCreativeWeekend.png" width="125" /></a></span></div>
Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-85861073952317846302012-09-10T08:00:00.000-04:002012-09-10T08:00:04.239-04:00SEC Football in the House!Ever since I started college at the University of Florida eight years ago, I have found a new way to mark the coming of fall. No, it's not with the introduction of Pumpkin Spice Lattes at Starbucks, or even the explosion of Halloween decorations at Michaels. I know fall is here when College Game Day is playing on Saturday mornings, and I spend three hours cheering on my Florida Gators! These last two weeks have been true nail-biters at times, but I love my college football.<br />
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In fact, I love my Gators so much - I am devoting this post to some crafty creations inspired by my alma mater's mascot.<br />
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Like this "Chomp-Worthy" display for student work in my classroom. I simply painted a plaque from Michaels, wrote the letters using puffy paint on wax paper while tracing computer-printed font, cut out an alligator shape using my Cricut, and then mounted it with mini clothespins to allow it to hold paper.<br />
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I think my love for the Gators is definitely rubbing off on my students as well. I use a little Gator stuffed animal as the mascot for our class (named Albert), and he gets to visit student homes over the weekend. Quote from a parent e-mail this week:<br />
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"A. also learned the Gator chomp over the weekend while my brother n law and his girlfriend were in town. She has been doing it non stop so don't be surprised if she comes in showing you! She was really excited because she watched the "Albert" team play football this weekend!"<br />
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Love it! Nothing like recruiting Florida football fans from the age of 5, ha ha.<br />
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Anyway, the other craft I worked on is this Florida ribbon wreath. I bought some ribbon from Michaels, along with the foam wreath base. While organizing my spare bedroom I also discovered a collection of ribbon I had purchased while making belts my freshman year of college. So I used some of those cutey gator ribbon pieces as well.<br />
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Once the hubby returns from Afghanistan, this football season will get even better. And I just may be getting him to become a Florida fan as well. Today when I asked him if he disliked every other coach in the SEC as much as I did, he answered that he didn't hate Muschamp, but only because he went to UGA. It may not be much, but I am still going to take it as a small victory from this Athens-raised Georgia boy.<br />
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What helps mark the start of fall for you?Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-59017768705935600842012-09-08T13:22:00.001-04:002012-09-08T13:23:08.138-04:00Another School YearWell, judging from the fact that I haven't been very active in the blog world lately, it must mean that school is back in session! In fact, this Friday marked the end of our second week of school.<br />
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My latest batch of kinders are very cute, of course, and they just have tons and tons of energy. So much in fact that I am wondering if they are leaching it from their very tired teacher! I have been running on iced coffee fumes for the past few weeks, and it felt so wonderful to get an uninterrupted THIRTEEN hours of sleep last night!<br />
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In my personal life, I was very lucky to have my mom visit me for half the month. She helped me organize my life, I mean, my apartment! And then she also came to my classroom a couple days too for helping me set up classroom supplies and hang up decorations. I used plastic tablecloths on my bulletin boards this year instead of paper and they were so much easier to hang up! I've heard they don't fade as much either. We even rubber-banded little pieces of felt to the bottom of my school chairs so they wouldn't be so loud all year long!<br />
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It was so great to get in some girl time and eat some delicious food with my mama! Like some yummy berry cakes at the Cracker Barrel. Mmmm.</div>
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After school started, I got my car back from the repair shop, after 27 days of driving around a fancy red mustang rental car. I am so glad to have my car back, and just in time to get my emissions inspections done and renew my tags. Then over labor day weekend I went home for my friend Brittany's wedding. She had a beautiful outdoor ceremony at Vines Mansion in Loganville, Georgia, just miles away from where Dustin used to live while we dated. That drive there and back sure brought back a lot of great old memories!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The happy couple!</td></tr>
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This weekend I am hoping to enjoy a little bit of Gator football, catch up on laundry, and finish a couple of Pinterest projects that I have been puttering around on lately. Hope everyone else has a wonderful weekend as well!Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-18034137312316140492012-08-07T07:00:00.000-04:002012-08-07T07:00:01.485-04:00Classroom Crafts: Word ArtNow that it is August, it is that time of year where I become totally consumed with all things classroom. Here are some of the little classroom projects I have been working on over the last week. Plus I included some crafty gifts from my little students.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2266q-VULIFtMXwJkoohGDdjbSFe3uvKsnWIu-y9A4JznDDvAIR2cIRVCTjs5ewCuBQf532r6R7TTc4DfjV_2qfsLN10NKNPzBX_Rlkjedt0cQbl3X38g6-31AVLF_u8ePVJjJntTWaE/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2266q-VULIFtMXwJkoohGDdjbSFe3uvKsnWIu-y9A4JznDDvAIR2cIRVCTjs5ewCuBQf532r6R7TTc4DfjV_2qfsLN10NKNPzBX_Rlkjedt0cQbl3X38g6-31AVLF_u8ePVJjJntTWaE/s320/001.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the colors on this one!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHGmNh2UiW4CPeCiBYZqstmrVDq2IYA2XpOVyNu66qO4gDw2G9hbE3XoNd64WRWRBYAW3FpMKc9AZ44B_xHv7BD40O7-D7WrDhACwBNsnwOCFCxxx9LyNXELzeWlw-ZMJI_rirZW1soI/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHGmNh2UiW4CPeCiBYZqstmrVDq2IYA2XpOVyNu66qO4gDw2G9hbE3XoNd64WRWRBYAW3FpMKc9AZ44B_xHv7BD40O7-D7WrDhACwBNsnwOCFCxxx9LyNXELzeWlw-ZMJI_rirZW1soI/s320/002.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So true...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAS9n_tRXOnb9joQDZPkAiTzwTor7LM9jA9XagSowT1xsLZRvJxUYhvnx7o-pRRS85dQPruUpxkZGrTKgZ-MCvuP2u0Izyv0ThGLGDHW_KxD6pxXEFcWTZs6y6aEMUWd9UdhX5ce3bgY/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAS9n_tRXOnb9joQDZPkAiTzwTor7LM9jA9XagSowT1xsLZRvJxUYhvnx7o-pRRS85dQPruUpxkZGrTKgZ-MCvuP2u0Izyv0ThGLGDHW_KxD6pxXEFcWTZs6y6aEMUWd9UdhX5ce3bgY/s320/003.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was a gift from a student last year</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCi89RVc1QvNmCauvL11KR46fce7fTdHUIK1z8dVqF_WkP9Yt-tPupaHrIHpzguFNja8P67spx8KepMLThjpXiIsLDMaBbhGIKNqRBW8-GPMk9rynjMxrqyypeX9B_b0VOFr0GSx5LUBQ/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCi89RVc1QvNmCauvL11KR46fce7fTdHUIK1z8dVqF_WkP9Yt-tPupaHrIHpzguFNja8P67spx8KepMLThjpXiIsLDMaBbhGIKNqRBW8-GPMk9rynjMxrqyypeX9B_b0VOFr0GSx5LUBQ/s320/004.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another gift from a student</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSC8Q2HTZOcybYPHCuPdgGbH2GcoHcWAR4wQRxy695H4blZhxLt0XmaMToIE0UgRXkds3wpKMAJzqu0h4O5h9PblKbF7lbeq0Qr8dplKONCDAulpGOWecg96_pLIc4t05dGZQCWDHu46o/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSC8Q2HTZOcybYPHCuPdgGbH2GcoHcWAR4wQRxy695H4blZhxLt0XmaMToIE0UgRXkds3wpKMAJzqu0h4O5h9PblKbF7lbeq0Qr8dplKONCDAulpGOWecg96_pLIc4t05dGZQCWDHu46o/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My word wall banner. Just need to hang it up high by the ceiling now!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-13331509926069607452012-08-06T07:00:00.000-04:002012-08-06T07:00:03.709-04:00Barcelona Vacation<div style="text-align: center;">
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I haven't forgotten about posting the details of our European vacation. A mini trip back home to Georgia got in the way of my blogging, but I am back in full force again!</div>
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<u>Barcelona Day 1</u></div>
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After our overnight train ride, we arrived in Barcelona at around 8:30 in the morning. We caught a cab and soon arrived at our hotel, which was right in the middle of the historic district. One of my favorite parts of Barcelona is that they have designated most of the smaller streets as pedestrian-only streets. How wonderful to walk around without fear of being run over! And since the buildings were tall (four or five stories), all of these little side streets were completely shaded during the days. Aaaah, nice.<br />
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The first day we were able to check into our hotel room early and already get settled in. Then we headed out to explore the historic district. We visited the Barcelona Cathedral, marveled in the Gothic architecture, and even took in some Catalan dancing circles in the plaza in front of the Cathedral at noon.<br />
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For lunch we tried some local fast food from Pan and Company. Little did we know that residents of Barcelona actually speak Catalan as their first language, and not Spanish, so we had a bit of difficulty translating the menu. Dustin ended up with a steak sandwich, and I had a ham sandwich, complete with a little side salad. European fast food is so much more healthy than American fast food!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAR3lFIpwLApb-tmyiG8UpoRfPWlii6yhhNZI6NThCAff5op0sclrLtKhhvsbR-pJ-TSDw9BrmbtcV78sHo2-7vmCrQGVawXWNkljJ5Sn7Pg7PlLhhnvA5DrCG3GCrUYeDe6HnGXsaK9E/s1600/Europe+Trip+386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAR3lFIpwLApb-tmyiG8UpoRfPWlii6yhhNZI6NThCAff5op0sclrLtKhhvsbR-pJ-TSDw9BrmbtcV78sHo2-7vmCrQGVawXWNkljJ5Sn7Pg7PlLhhnvA5DrCG3GCrUYeDe6HnGXsaK9E/s320/Europe+Trip+386.JPG" width="320" /></a>
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We met up with a Discover Walks group in the afternoon, which led us on an informative tour around the historic district. We learned about some crazy tidbits in Barcelona's history, such as them knocking down the city walls in the middle of the 19th century because of the terrible disease from living in such close quarters, and building Las Ramblas as a shopping boulevard linking the historic district all the way to the ocean. We saw some beautiful mosaic tile stories which could be found all over Petroxil street near our hotel.<br />
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That evening Dustin really wanted to watch the Italy vs. England soccer game, so we stopped into perhaps the last restaurant with a spot in front of the TV. We tried our first tastes of some standard Spanish tapas: Pan amb tomato (crusty bread with a thin tomato sauce on top), Calamari (yum), and then some American-style barbecue chicken wings because Dustin was seriously missing his favorite American bar foods after six months of deprivation.<br />
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On the way back from our dinner, we decided to check out a small little Hostel bar called the Hostel Paris. It was only about a 6-minute walk from our hotel, and ended up being our late-night spot every night while in Barcelona. We loved trying tapas, sipping on sangria, and watching European MTV late at night.<br />
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<u>Barcelona Day 2</u></div>
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Today we went on another Discover Walks Tour. This one was focused around the Modernista architecture of Gaudi. We saw lots of gorgeous buildings and learned some quirky history about neighboring buildings adding details over the years to try and make their building the taller of the two.<br />
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After the tour, we hopped aboard the double decker tour bus to see some of the sights of the city without having to punish our feet. That sun sure was hot and toasty though!<br />
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We stopped off at the mall so Dustin could pick up a pair of shorts, and then we lunched at a little Italian restaurant. The canneloni there was so delicious! Mmm wish I could have an order of that again right about now!<br />
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Later that night we tried to eat dinner at a popular restaurant, La Cerveceria Catalana. The place was absolutely packed, and we couldn't even find standing room in the bar. After waiting out about fifteen minutes of the ninety minute wait, we decided to try our luck elsewhere. We wandered down a couple side streets until we found a little wine bar. We tried patatas bravas (homestyle fried potatoes topped with a spicy sauce and creamy sauce) and then had dinner and a rich chocolate mousse for dessert.<br />
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<u>Barcelona Day 3</u></div>
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We treated ourselves to a Spanish breakfast on this morning. We visited Granje Dulcinea down the street from our hotel for some churros con chocolat. The churros were delightfully crispy and light, while the chocolate was unbelievably thick and creamy. It was like a mug of melted Hershey's bars. I only tried a couple sips until I realized it was more of a dunking beverage. So decadent!<br />
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We spent the morning taking in the beautiful architecture of Parc Guell, which was designed by Gaudi.<br />
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After doing some walking around the city, we made our way to a wonderful tapas spot. Quimet & Quimet was a standing room only little spot. They had a few barstools and the spot could only fit a max of fifteen diners standing. We decided to be daring and let the server just pick three popular tapas for us. We were served some fancy mini open-face sandwiches. One was yogurt with honey and smoked salmon (my favorite), another had roasted red pepper, olive, and anchovies (Dustin liked), and the last one was pate with balsamic and onions. Mmmm, they were so tasty and definitely a step outside of our comfort zone.<br />
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We made a day of visiting the castle atop Montjuic, but I accidentally stepped into a puddle on the way to the metro station. We went into a small streetside bar to get a napkin and a quick drink, and ended up witnessed what could have been a scene from a Spanish telenovela. Let's just say an older gentleman who had been "overserved" yelling in Spanish at the servers, and finally loudly reminding the owner that he had known him for 18 years, and his mother had known the owner for twenty years. It was quite entertaining.</div>
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At this point, we got back to the task of heading out to Montjuic, taking both a funicular and cable car to arrive at the top of the mountain. The views were breathtaking, but the sun sure was blazing!<br />
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That night we ate at Kaiku, a little beach front restaurant known for their giant and delicious paella for two. It was a romantic evening, and we even sampled gazpacho for the first time, courtesy of the chef. Dustin was totally a fan of the gazpacho!<br />
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We strolled along the beach for a little post-dinner walk, and then found our way to an Irish pub for a couple drinks and English conversation. We caught a cab back, made some more friends at our favorite late-night bar, and then finally made it home to our hotel, exhausted after another busy day.<br />
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<u>Barcelona Day 4</u></div>
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Our last day in Barcelona we just chilled. We talked, played some iPad games, and relaxed. Having two weeks of sightseeing in Europe really keeps you busy, and a day to just lounge around with my hubby was much needed. That night we went out to our favorite bar to watch Spain play Portugal in the EuroCup. Spain won!!!</div>
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Barcelona really went down as our favorite city of the trip, and I would love to see more of Spain if we ever get back over there again! The last portion of our trip was Italy, which I hope to post soon.</div>
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</div>Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-20396040062710345782012-08-05T16:00:00.000-04:002012-08-05T16:00:02.492-04:00Visiting Family in AtlantaA couple weeks ago I went home to Atlanta to visit my family for a week. It was a great visit!<br />
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I met up with one of my best friends, Calli, for lunch at a Cuban restaurant, Papi's. I had never been there before, and it was delicious! I had a medianoche sandwich (cuban on sweet bread) with some plantains. Mmm, it was so good, but still doesn't quite compare to Flaco's Cuban Bakery in Gainesville. We talked for hours, and I'm pretty sure we drove our waiter crazy!<br />
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I got to spend some quality time with my parents and our kitties, including taking my parents' new cat to the vet. He looks so much like my old cat, Bailey! In fact, my parents told me his resemblance to Bailey was part of what convinced them to pick up a stray kitten from the side of the road.<br />
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Later that week my brother, David, came into town and we went to an Aerosmith and Cheap Trick concert with my parents. I definitely didn't know a lot of the songs as they were a bit before my time, but it was a packed house and it was pretty neat to sit up in the box seats.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excuse my devil eyes in this picture...</td></tr>
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The next day we played tourists and visited the World of Coca-Cola. I learned a lot about the making of Coca-Cola and got to see the amazing Olympic torch collection. The best part was the Taste Factory at the end, where you could taste Coca-Cola products from all around the world. Most of the drinks were super-sweet and fruity, but I was disgusted by a nasty tasting drink from Italy. Never saw it while I was actually in that country! As you leave, they give you a freshly bottled glass of Coca-Cola, and a little plastic bag, which I may have nicknamed the "barf bag" because I seriously wonder if all those little kids there can actually hold down that many types of soda at one time. We finished the afternoon with an early dinner at Cheesecake Factory and sampling some amazing cheesecakes.<br />
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Later that weekend I went to my friend Brittany's wedding shower. It was at a cute little Greek restaurant in Buckhead where we sipped on sangria, munched on appetizers, and I had a delicious fig and goat cheese pizza (wish I had a photo). I even won a door prize - a bottle of wine! I can't wait to celebrate the wedding with them in September.<br />
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Since all five of us have summer birthdays, we celebrated with my favorite dessert - cookie cake! We spent the last night in Georgia playing some family games of cards. We played a lengthy game of spades, and then I taught my brothers and dad to play BS. It was a great night.<br />
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Like every visit home, this one left me excited for the next trip back, and hopeful for the day when we won't live in four different states from each other!Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-91090865933113536292012-07-31T21:08:00.002-04:002012-07-31T21:08:31.624-04:00My Poor CarRemember when I posted about how wonderful my car was and that hardly anything has ever gone wrong with it? Well, I pushed my luck by saying that aloud, I mean, typing it onto the blog.<br />
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I was minding my own business driving home from work when CRASH! A girl wasn't paying attention and tried to turn across three lanes of traffic, crashing into my car. My poor car had to be towed, I had to file a police accident report, and spent about an hour on the phone with insurance companies, but I am so thankful that it is just my car that is damaged, and that I was able to walk away in one piece.<br />
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If she would have been driving faster or hit the middle of my car instead of the front, I am scared to think what could have happened if my car was pushed into opposite traffic going 45+ miles per hour.<br />
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Now I am unwinding this evening with some Olympics coverage, Dominos pizza, and a glass of wine.Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-75384756946240156212012-07-27T07:00:00.000-04:002012-07-27T07:00:20.615-04:00Happy Birthday Baby!Tomorrow is my hubby's birthday! He will be turning 27, that old man. Earlier last week I put together a small package for his birthday. He will probably get it late, but it's the thought that counts. I made funfetti cake batter cookies! And yummmm, they are so good! I may have sampled one or two, he he.<br />
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So in case Dustin somehow ends up reading this, Happy Birthday Baby! And enjoy the cookies!Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-6277586105329407902012-07-21T07:00:00.000-04:002012-07-21T07:00:11.090-04:00First Car RepairWhen I graduated college in 2008, my parents bought me a brand new Nissan Versa hatchback. It was their way to say "congratulations" and since I had a full academic scholarship to University of Florida, it replaced the cost of paying for my college.<br />
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Fast forward four years and two months, 57,000 miles, and two different states, and I had my very first thing go wrong with my car today (beside flat tires). My battery died.<br />
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I am so glad we keep emergency roadside assistance on our Geico policy, and they arrived within 45 minutes to test my battery, jump my car, and leave me to drive over to AutoZone. I knew as soon as I shut off the engine my battery would die again, so I left my car running as I ran into AutoZone to make sure they would install my new battery for me, because I have no auto know-how. They did and I left with a running car and a 7-year warranty on my new battery!<br />
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I love my little car and can't wait to embark on my 8-hour road trip to Atlanta to visit family! New battery and all.Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-12202542319299438152012-07-19T07:00:00.000-04:002012-07-19T07:00:10.553-04:00Postcard from Paris: Part TwoHere is part two of our adventures in Paris. I didn't realize just how much we did and saw until I sat to write it all up!<br />
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<b><u>Paris - Day 4</u></b></div>
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Day 4 in Paris was also the day of the Fete de la Musique, which is a day-long musical festival across Paris. We visited the Louvre today, lunched at McD's, and then headed to one of my favorite memories of my last Paris trip: Leon de Bruxelles! It is a chain restaurant that is Belgium-themed, but they have some great mussels and fries. I think Dustin agreed!<br />
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Afterward, we caught a little bit of a French band on the side of a street, and headed to the Musee d'Orsay. In a weird turn of events, the museum was closed early, but you could see an opera performance for free inside instead. We didn't get to see the impressionist paintings, which was a bummer, but we did see the sculptures and have a unique experience for sure! We ended the night with a boat cruise down the Seine River.<br />
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<b><u>Paris - Day 5</u></b></div>
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Day 5 in Paris was when we headed out to Versailles. The Hall of Mirrors was everything I imagined it would be!<br />
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I also got my first taste of Laduree macarons while here as well. There is no word to describe these pastries other than divine!<br />
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For lunch, we ate at the Cafe of the Grand Mosque of Paris. We were seated at a quaint courtyard table and ordered some mint tea. It was very sweet! Dustin has been working with some men from Jordan while he has been deployed, so he has tried the mint tea before with them and loved it! I ordered a lamb, prune, almond tangine which was delicious! Dustin ordered a meatball couscous which was served more like a stew with cabbage and other veggies. It was a very unique meal, and quite delicious!<br />
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That night we went on a Discover Walks tour (free) through the Montmatre district. Our tour guide, Bruno, was wonderfully Parisian and had been living in the neighborhood his entire life, even spending evenings with his grandmother as a child, working on costumes at the Moulin Rouge! He told us some quirky stories about mosaic artwork in the Parisian streets, how the director of Amelie is shooed away from the cafe made famous in his film, and the reasons why our tour guide dislikes the Sacre Couer basilica at the top of Montmatre. The views from the top of the hill were beautiful!<br />
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We ate dinner this night at the local cafe near our hotel, where we realized that the French cook their meat much less than we Americans do. Let's say their version of medium is more like our rare, which made my very pink burger a little, interesting to say the least.<br />
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<b><u>Paris - Day 6</u></b></div>
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Day 6 in Paris was our very last day! On this day we added our lock to the Pont d' Archeviche, tossing the key into the river. We picked up some mustard, chocolate, and foie gras as souvenirs for our family.<br />
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We also ate lunch at a small, nondescript cafe. I had my first-ever Croque Madame, which was amazing! It is basically a ham, cheese, egg sandwich with a lovely side salad. Dustin and I also learned during our time in Paris that the French are very picky about table settings. To keep them from fussing at us once the food came, we learned you had to put your napkin in your lap right away, and when our food was on the way, we picked up our utensils in our hands. It seemed like we were really eager to eat doing this way, but it was the only way that kept our server from putting our silverware in our hands for us. Such peculiarities in different countries!<br />
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We headed back to our hotel to pack up all our stuff and then sampled some creme brulee at a nearby corner cafe, along with some frothy cappuccinos. It was the first meal where I actually used only French to order and converse with the waiter, so I was pretty proud!<br />
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Then we were off to the train station and on to Spain! We entertained ourselves by playing Monopoly on the iPad (so fun!), then found our little two-bedroom coach. It was pretty neat! We picked up some delicious snacks - yummy crunchy, breaded, and spiced peanuts. They may have completely disappeared within the first hour or so! We also headed down to the bar car and had some wine and beer while waiting for night to fall. Later that evening someone came to take down our beds (from the wall!) and then we were soon off to sleep. It was a little bit stop and go trying to sleep while the train was moving, but we woke up in time for some free and delicious breakfast in the dining car.<br />
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More about our adventures in Barcelona coming soon!</div>Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-40299571687493028622012-07-17T11:51:00.000-04:002012-07-17T11:51:48.407-04:00Postcard from Paris: Part OneAnybody else love that song by The Band Perry? I fell in love with Paris when I studied abroad there for two weeks in college. It was the summer of 2007. It rained, and rained some more, but I fell in love with the mystique of this beautiful city. People always say that French people are rude, but I like to think of them more like playing hard to get. And what can I say, it works! They keep me wanting more.<br />
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Ever since that trip I have been plotting how I would get myself back to the City of Lights. And when Dustin's plan for an R and R trip in Europe came up, I made sure that Paris was tacked onto our list of cities to explore.<br />
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Due to some last-minute changes in R and R plans, Dustin actually arrived in Paris two days early - EEKS! Not a problem, I spent my first official day of summer break setting him up a hotel for those two days, and shifting all of our hotels, train tickets, inter-country flights by about three days.<br />
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<b><u>Paris - Day 1</u></b></div>
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Sunday finally rolled around and it was time for my flight to Paris! I flew Air France, which I think is just about the best airline around. They gave me a wonderful little eye mask to wear while snoozing, and serve complimentary wine during every snack and beverage break, and meal. What can I say, I love me some wine in tiny bottles! I think the British lady sitting next to me might have actually had five glasses of wine between getting the air and the time I popped a Dramamine so that I could avoid turbulence-induced nausea and be well-rested for my first day in Paris. Anyway, it was a great flight.<br />
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After that I was held up in a long customs line, collected my baggage, and then trekked across the entire airport twice trying to find a functioning ATM machine (2 of 3 machines were broken!). Before I knew it, the cab ride to the hotel was over and my HUBBY was carrying our enormous suitcases up the five flights of stairs to our hotel room. It was so great to see him!<br />
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That afternoon, we headed out for a drink at "The American Cafe" which was funny, because we were the only Americans in the whole place, everyone else was French. Dustin loved that the French serve a little dish of peanuts with every drink.<br />
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Then we ordered pizza from Pink Flamingo Pizza near the canal. After you order pizza, they give you a pink balloon. You find your desired spot for dinner (we found a spot along the canal) and they will find you as they deliver your pizza via bicycle. Pretty clever! And our eight cheese pizza was out of this world! Picnics in Paris might rank as the #1 thing I wish more people did in America.<br />
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<b><u>Paris - Day 2</u></b></div>
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Day 2 in Paris ended up being a day trip to Giverny, which was Monet's beautiful garden house. We used a metro, train, and bicycle during this day trip adventure. We booked our tour through Fat Tire Bike Tours. It was a little pricey, but well planned out and enjoyable. We learned a lot of history about Monet's life and the lack of respect he received from the art critics of his day in France. I also did not wipe out on my bicycle, which was my greatest fear! One man on the trip did actually cut off his wife at one point on the trail and she definitely rode her bike into a giant bush (ouch)!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4B38n5SCQs_uxs7aW9VlKwEFk09-pzDQCJ2cRjieaz-qeVKs1MTjndDzxF-f6BTfOXomwDfft-mIiKkzBYX5kOhR9QE9eTcg5vG4PQmGvtexaObUqC5mmZgxLzY05tFRBg_xBhGoQsLg/s1600/Europe+Trip+040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4B38n5SCQs_uxs7aW9VlKwEFk09-pzDQCJ2cRjieaz-qeVKs1MTjndDzxF-f6BTfOXomwDfft-mIiKkzBYX5kOhR9QE9eTcg5vG4PQmGvtexaObUqC5mmZgxLzY05tFRBg_xBhGoQsLg/s320/Europe+Trip+040.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Biking in Vernon, France" width="320" /></a>
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Anyway, we enjoyed collecting food goodies from the local shops in the quaint town of Vernon and picnicking along the river. Since Vernon is known for its apples (according to our tour guide) we bought some apple cider and a juicy apple tart, along with our staples of cheese, meat, and bread.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFz81_dlpW3TzQBpwe3ijgh-XERbKTMojV7p8OCrxxYMQKI4ciEUkZA9tPJ6EepsDWsV7hpI5BLjRCYmh9nC_1YvhOFih_jrWVKSN4KAbi7TsOEF7LQHZacbpBXpS6n1GrQP5SupLHmWc/s1600/Europe+Trip+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFz81_dlpW3TzQBpwe3ijgh-XERbKTMojV7p8OCrxxYMQKI4ciEUkZA9tPJ6EepsDWsV7hpI5BLjRCYmh9nC_1YvhOFih_jrWVKSN4KAbi7TsOEF7LQHZacbpBXpS6n1GrQP5SupLHmWc/s320/Europe+Trip+047.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Butcher in Vernon, France" width="320" /></a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z3NnFjggL-MSf8hPjWN5vJfr_Tk0xYA_oZaT_pHctp6CQ-u3nw-hgHrpprymI-XwGMz3cYQgjVPwUswtsAOHZgGxAtjew7kW1wTyv_rpyqrYO2R4I4o2dqLGaN3eDWpdyF85DmcSP14/s1600/Europe+Trip+057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z3NnFjggL-MSf8hPjWN5vJfr_Tk0xYA_oZaT_pHctp6CQ-u3nw-hgHrpprymI-XwGMz3cYQgjVPwUswtsAOHZgGxAtjew7kW1wTyv_rpyqrYO2R4I4o2dqLGaN3eDWpdyF85DmcSP14/s320/Europe+Trip+057.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Picnic in Vernon, France" width="320" /></a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDP1vhhENTJImpaqhqoNh8yD7otjT7v_1VT5Tg7lF7IBliPQgpT7oGReQ_miONOnx48kzvZ6JduCD0FSrDUbHqABWyYaXWm65wyfsQBvZkJcRAPLFE0F8otY-teKWML1VYvloFAWcz_Q/s1600/Europe+Trip+062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDP1vhhENTJImpaqhqoNh8yD7otjT7v_1VT5Tg7lF7IBliPQgpT7oGReQ_miONOnx48kzvZ6JduCD0FSrDUbHqABWyYaXWm65wyfsQBvZkJcRAPLFE0F8otY-teKWML1VYvloFAWcz_Q/s320/Europe+Trip+062.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Picnic in Vernon, France" width="320" /></a>
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After our picnic we were back to riding the bicycles, and seeing the gorgeous flowers and water lilies of Monet's home.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZGRvvQz6CHv4bLzFSC9qlrWczQULQbjpEKrxdu5QMed9RxQwQdvEJskiwp5xpKLUHaBltrqqaN6A8OETGhEbYbdIC4_frI7Wqbtsy-02qjN5kHW2c0l3SceFPs_Okw9dYTlFEuYFBzA/s1600/Europe+Trip+086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZGRvvQz6CHv4bLzFSC9qlrWczQULQbjpEKrxdu5QMed9RxQwQdvEJskiwp5xpKLUHaBltrqqaN6A8OETGhEbYbdIC4_frI7Wqbtsy-02qjN5kHW2c0l3SceFPs_Okw9dYTlFEuYFBzA/s320/Europe+Trip+086.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Monet's Garden in Giverny, France" width="320" /></a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIaKiN5V0sdIwKeXOBLdN0z_3biCoeuEiPCMAshGbJiLnAhJGEG9xbejp6WmlyWeMMCZZkKOin7R3fWhIkcdRe6TiYYRsWRBKIKSkKJ4tksFul2612iV0ztp9tsZkRhvD6nNOtLmwoSA/s1600/Europe+Trip+092.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIaKiN5V0sdIwKeXOBLdN0z_3biCoeuEiPCMAshGbJiLnAhJGEG9xbejp6WmlyWeMMCZZkKOin7R3fWhIkcdRe6TiYYRsWRBKIKSkKJ4tksFul2612iV0ztp9tsZkRhvD6nNOtLmwoSA/s320/Europe+Trip+092.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Monet's Garden in Giverny, France" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY0HbGL-lx8lrGPTV6WMLcFILHCLRx0RLaF1KXqvmJv1dA4yoQqyij-Z3QkmyKeGHR9xzR_Qg9Kh73PupVy5IfxdL28-tzvs_sGUg3YBicGk3nNzjkJYo6vkgQYwwSgOEaD-uzZCqFGa8/s1600/Europe+Trip+137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY0HbGL-lx8lrGPTV6WMLcFILHCLRx0RLaF1KXqvmJv1dA4yoQqyij-Z3QkmyKeGHR9xzR_Qg9Kh73PupVy5IfxdL28-tzvs_sGUg3YBicGk3nNzjkJYo6vkgQYwwSgOEaD-uzZCqFGa8/s320/Europe+Trip+137.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Monet's Garden in Giverny, France" width="240" /></a>
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That evening we came back and freshened up in time to visit a nearby restaurant I had found on Yelp: Le Plomb Cantal. It was a cozy place, and I felt like we were the only English-speaking folks in the house. I had the Yelp-recommended duck confit, and Dustin tried a duck steak, and we both ordered the cheesy potatoes. Man, they were not kidding about the CHEESY potatoes. That stuff would stretch like a giant cord from the plate to your fork over a foot in the air! I had to resort to twirling and eating them like spaghetti.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXgJh0Iu0WYgfqWXRUPmjh-RTtz4hcO9YGdNsyl8dxK9tAoTqhlyKE-pDZWDW8aSEkcgAp_40ex_ygYTSmhNuYDAgj9CnovJXntyWrAdRnFAX-_s2ZTSanYQf_L1bwWMCup5I19UkoXQ/s1600/Europe+Trip+148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXgJh0Iu0WYgfqWXRUPmjh-RTtz4hcO9YGdNsyl8dxK9tAoTqhlyKE-pDZWDW8aSEkcgAp_40ex_ygYTSmhNuYDAgj9CnovJXntyWrAdRnFAX-_s2ZTSanYQf_L1bwWMCup5I19UkoXQ/s320/Europe+Trip+148.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Le Plomb du Cantal in Paris, France" width="320" /></a>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">That place was definitely a hidden gem and we felt proud that we had not eaten in a typical "tourist trap" that advertised their menu in English on the curbside.</span>
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<b><u>Paris - Day 3</u></b></div>
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Day 3 in Paris we spent exploring the St. Michel and Notre Dame area, and then down to the Jardin du Lexembourg. We snapped some great photos and developed a plan for adding our lock to the Lovers' Bridge.<br />
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<img alt="" height="320" src="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/396165_10102495423343431_1164590510_n.jpg" title="Colwells in Carolina: Notre Dame in Paris" width="240" />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdj4wE-qKRkWMM-mYwfYSE32KFK20K8xrqqyuiorF_AdECAFHW4dwVslNuuGNoCLmlyZ6d3IyCOysvC6Pfw34o39TdY5VBMwtF_j6hGg-S-xuyvoVzl7EQowFCY6_HDxSjZ7tz_tnbEI/s1600/Europe+Trip+175.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdj4wE-qKRkWMM-mYwfYSE32KFK20K8xrqqyuiorF_AdECAFHW4dwVslNuuGNoCLmlyZ6d3IyCOysvC6Pfw34o39TdY5VBMwtF_j6hGg-S-xuyvoVzl7EQowFCY6_HDxSjZ7tz_tnbEI/s320/Europe+Trip+175.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Jardin du Luxembourg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF70TLehGtXyMftWKB41WlMCW1jzNXIJ9u6usWHrTTqP0vI29a05pHGfWrEnD-riABN6UzxrTJRyVkaN126OqAmGSk_VlQ8DovpqGTJo5_LJgVibslvDePnRTYR7L3MpRRn3UOEpEYQ_U/s1600/Europe+Trip+188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF70TLehGtXyMftWKB41WlMCW1jzNXIJ9u6usWHrTTqP0vI29a05pHGfWrEnD-riABN6UzxrTJRyVkaN126OqAmGSk_VlQ8DovpqGTJo5_LJgVibslvDePnRTYR7L3MpRRn3UOEpEYQ_U/s320/Europe+Trip+188.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Lovers Bridge in Paris" width="240" /></a>
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Then we started on our dinner plans for the evening. What else could it be but a picnic? We visited a cheese shop that was about five doors down from our hotel, where the owner picked us out a yummy wedge of Camembert cheese and some creamy goat cheese. Yum! Then we picked up a baguette from the boulangerie (bakery) and cheated by visiting the grocery store for our other goodies. We bought a bottle of wine, a six-pack of beer, some snack-size salami, cookies, and candies. Then we stuck it all in my tote bag and headed out to the Eiffel Tower.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Zr-iq5YYSd9ykeKUsx0XSpxm5e2BG4l1bZSioC9qDN6N6bxOvLDktP2tjeY_052KNp0aUyunjMhtWgXbOgjmBEpD6xqKsEwBpi0MGoVXWEqxLQ9Z7WNjShYDKqZFtt19zOXUs7JCrh0/s1600/Europe+Trip+203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Zr-iq5YYSd9ykeKUsx0XSpxm5e2BG4l1bZSioC9qDN6N6bxOvLDktP2tjeY_052KNp0aUyunjMhtWgXbOgjmBEpD6xqKsEwBpi0MGoVXWEqxLQ9Z7WNjShYDKqZFtt19zOXUs7JCrh0/s320/Europe+Trip+203.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Cheese shop in Paris" width="320" /></a>
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Our metro ride was pretty neat for this occasion, as there was an accordion player in our metro car just as it emerged from underground to the above-ground section of the track. When Dustin first caught sight of the Eiffel tower, his excitement was adorable!<br />
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After shooing off the very persistent flower and wine bottle peddlers on the Champs du Mars, we were settled comfortably into our spot overlooking the tower. We ate our yummy food, soaked in the atmosphere, and even made some new friends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXhugR4k96JGxnVl8hAr_4wLJM7CCucWdhrzqWxIVNr1QFI2SXkOUcBQEDvXXHUb8FVkiBvLR2QPO3van__Z9EBqVlfwqT0-Ws9Hk2djqsx15ruJjMZyepT26J2M-EmrUmH_QhzxnWUU/s1600/Europe+Trip+213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXhugR4k96JGxnVl8hAr_4wLJM7CCucWdhrzqWxIVNr1QFI2SXkOUcBQEDvXXHUb8FVkiBvLR2QPO3van__Z9EBqVlfwqT0-Ws9Hk2djqsx15ruJjMZyepT26J2M-EmrUmH_QhzxnWUU/s320/Europe+Trip+213.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Picnic Near Eiffel Tower in Paris" width="240" /></a>
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<img alt="" height="320" src="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/320371_10102495427584931_759576646_n.jpg" title="Colwells in Carolina: Eiffel Tower in Paris" width="240" /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJVXQvRrTQ2NZe6NxMB08c996VpNB5AGFsixJwcl4ELrycJqjjlt0u6t9rcZpsainK9wF8Ou6Lkvaivv-qoh2o7D85V9pi-Zcd41jRPoyezYMdAe3HqdUVYkpiNzowb81HtaGNem_8Lc/s1600/Europe+Trip+216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJVXQvRrTQ2NZe6NxMB08c996VpNB5AGFsixJwcl4ELrycJqjjlt0u6t9rcZpsainK9wF8Ou6Lkvaivv-qoh2o7D85V9pi-Zcd41jRPoyezYMdAe3HqdUVYkpiNzowb81HtaGNem_8Lc/s320/Europe+Trip+216.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Picnic near Eiffel Tower in Paris" width="320" /></a>
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We watched the light show and then were promptly shooed off the grass by the French police. We ended the night sipping some cider at the corner cafe that was about 100 feet from our hotel.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXEYlx7WyAZ_Ou0Y0Bic0dc3LoE3DIHtKZzdP43oFgkY2jPLTLZHWMZBBd_aKa7ApFjBQdoXpVskIBAF86gCf41ZRcR2V0QtP3ETUVaG7oBLb4u3HPsi-_6tkWNsFU6-O_3gwsMS7BeU/s1600/Europe+Trip+219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXEYlx7WyAZ_Ou0Y0Bic0dc3LoE3DIHtKZzdP43oFgkY2jPLTLZHWMZBBd_aKa7ApFjBQdoXpVskIBAF86gCf41ZRcR2V0QtP3ETUVaG7oBLb4u3HPsi-_6tkWNsFU6-O_3gwsMS7BeU/s320/Europe+Trip+219.JPG" title="Colwells in Carolina: Eiffel Tower in Paris" width="240" /></a>
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I thought I would be able to post all of our Paris leg of the trip in one post, but it is just proving too long! So come back to read about the second half of Paris, where we visited Versailles, listened to Opera, and took an overnight train ride!Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-40145224050700834532012-07-15T10:30:00.000-04:002012-07-15T10:48:29.576-04:00Back in the USA, Post R&R BluesI have been back in the States for about a week now (WOO-HOO!), which makes me a terrible blogger that I haven't posted at all during this week. Let's just say, a few weeks in Europe makes me so appreciative of personal transportation (cars), hearing English, and air conditioning.<br />
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In my defense, dragging around a 50-pound rolling bag, 25-pound carry on, and 10-pound purse through three airports last week resulted in a terribly painful pulled lower abdominal muscle. So I spent about three days laying in bed, icing my sad muscle, and praying that I would be able to function in society once again. Now I'm almost all better!<br />
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I am in North Carolina for the rest of this week before I go home to Atlanta to visit my family. I am going to try and blog all about my amazing 20-day European adventure during this week. I have lots of great pictures, yummy food stories, and wacky history facts to share!<br />
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But on a sadder note, it has been 13 days since I said a blubbery, teary-eyed bye-bye to Dustin at the airport in Rome. And these 13 days have seemed harder than the entire six months leading up to R&R. When Dustin left the first time, I didn't know what to expect, and having lived by myself for two years prior to marriage, I settled into the "by myself" routine pretty easily. Yea, it always sucked not having our date night every Friday night after a week of work, but it was pretty easy to adjust to riding in a car alone, cooking for one, and shopping by myself (who am I kidding, I shop by myself when Dustin is home - he HATES shopping).<br />
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After spending two weeks with him no further than ten feet away from me at any time, having him thousands of miles away SUCKS. I just forgot how nice it was to have that hand to hold, the shoulder that my head fits on just perfectly, and someone to laugh at my stupid jokes. And his voice just sounds - different - on the phone than it does in person. And I miss hearing his live voice.<br />
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Anyway, enough woe is me talk. Let me just assure you that my brain is pretty much 100% committed toward counting down to his homecoming, which rumor has it may be a couple months earlier than anticipated. I will be crossing my fingers for sure! So, check back the next few days for posts of the European vacation!<br />
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<br />Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-22202651278089462562012-06-25T22:32:00.000-04:002012-06-25T22:32:00.493-04:00My Summer Bucket ListI plan to get the most out of my 66 days of summer break. Here's on my bucket list for the summer of 2012...<br />
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<u><b>Relaxing List</b></u><br />
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Lounge poolside with some summer beverages<br />
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Visit the beach at least once (didn't make it out at all last year!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlF159CnRZ-qYJn-H2pY_acgTINgVp789DA53NUM69mH40byEkt4nsW-cwhsbT5sZgp2FRMHCOfhZZKc2mq3gmNmluW7qgOf5nzAhlQfOBvKoT9Shp7jwAulgI5JEXjXIquYE1EH3sb4/s1600/038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlF159CnRZ-qYJn-H2pY_acgTINgVp789DA53NUM69mH40byEkt4nsW-cwhsbT5sZgp2FRMHCOfhZZKc2mq3gmNmluW7qgOf5nzAhlQfOBvKoT9Shp7jwAulgI5JEXjXIquYE1EH3sb4/s320/038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cooking class with Mom in Alpharetta<br />
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Wedding shower for a friend in Atlanta<br />
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Visit Duplin Winery and stock up on some summer wines<br />
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<b><u>Productive List</u></b><br />
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Cook at least ten new recipes<br />
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Map art projects from Pinterest<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/116389971590257252/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media-cache-ec1.pinterest.com/upload/146789269074124918_hq07QcA1_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://amytangerine.blogspot.com/2010/07/europe-mini-book-part-1.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">amytangerine.blogspot.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/jenheartsdustin/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Jennifer</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Pretty to-do list projects from Pinterest<br />
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Travel journal projects from Pinterest<br />
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Desk decor for my classroomMrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-21240681132931715512012-06-25T11:00:00.000-04:002012-06-25T11:01:47.950-04:00With My Other HalfI am not going to be blogging for the next couple weeks because I am reunited with hubby in Europe! We are having so much fun, and I will post all our pictures and adventures when I return stateside. Here is the only photo saved so far on my iPad of us on the train from Paris to Barcelona.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/06/25/1361.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/06/25/s_1361.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-77126517052640094002012-06-15T20:36:00.000-04:002012-06-15T20:36:26.819-04:00The best things in life...aren't things!<br />
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I saw this quote on an adorable Pinterest project (add it to my mile-long to-do list for this summer).<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/116389971589433015/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/116389971589433015_AXgpzpmB_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://andreanelsworth.hubpages.com/hub/Home-Art-How-to-Make-The-Best-Things-in-Life-Arent-Things-Decorative-Wall-Sign-Tutorial" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">andreanelsworth.hubpages.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/jenheartsdustin/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Jennifer</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Today being my first official day of summer break, I took the time to enjoy some of these "things".<br />
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<u>Open windows</u> - There is just something about feeling the breeze coming through the windows, hearing the birds chirping outside, and letting some sunshine into my apartment.<br />
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<u>Facetime with my cat </u>- My parents are watching my cat so I can go on a fabulous vacation with hubby. He definitely got himself stuck in the empty space in the corner between cabinets for two days, and my dad figured out how to dismantle the cabinet baseboards to let him escape. It is so cute to see Colby go crazy when he hears my voice on the iPhone - he starts meowing and rubbing against everything in sight. Miss that kitty!<br />
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<u>Clean bedding</u> - I stripped all the sheets, pillowcases, and bedspread today. I love that first day clean feeling when I change all the sheets and make the bed all nice and neat.<br />
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And even though I said I would talk about non-things, I bought a new vacuum cleaner today and I am THRILLED that it actually picked up all the dust and cat fur that I kept noticing the old vacuum cleaner was leaving behind. I guess that's a sign that you are getting old and boring when a new vacuum cleaner makes your day!Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-80088281120556319082012-06-09T08:20:00.000-04:002012-06-09T08:27:30.308-04:00School's Out for Summer!After 180 days of being a broken record of: stay seated, raise your hand, pay attention, push your patience button, toes and nose forward, keep your hands to yourself, write your name on your paper, give him/her an 'I feel' message, etc. the end has finally arrived! For weeks it seemed like this day would never arrive, especially as my class size ballooned up to 27 kiddos. But then, the last day of school just quietly arrived, almost as though it sneaked up on us.<br />
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I have three students in my class who are moving this summer, and another student whose parent will be homeschooling next year. I had a few little girls with mini meltdowns as they arrived at school in the morning or ate their last kindergarten lunch, but I thought the kids were excited for the most part. Then, the final announcements came on the intercom at the end of the day. One of my little boys started crying, so I gave him a hug, and when I looked up from the hug, it was like a floodgate had been opened. My parent volunteer (I've taught both of her children in the last two years) was crying, and I think at least half my class started at that point. Poor kiddos! They are now first graders though, and it will be hard for it to sink in that first day back when they walk down the hallway to give me a hug, but no longer get to spend the whole day with me, and have to walk past to first grade instead.<br />
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But on a positive note, I made some cutie volunteer thank you gifts and end of year goodies for my class.<br />
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I stole the saying for this gift from <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jenheartsdustin">Pinterest</a> (<a href="http://www.tammymitchellphotography.com/2012/04/27/make-this-free-printable-teacher-appreciation-week-creative-gift-idea-soda-lighted-youre-my-teacher/">original idea here</a>) , and then just kind of tweaked it based on what I found in my local stores the day before school ended (procrastination at its finest). I bought the sundae cup from Wal-mart for a $1 and the IBC root beer came in a 6-pack at Food Lion. For one of my parent volunteers that still comes even though his child went on to 1st grade, I tucked in a little Cold Stone Creamery gift card as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE96B8awD1An__RnCQLUlQYuLnRlYTUEHM3GxP_onFJnibQqJzsUzUjebHT8F-rg-in8OtPIKLpAGvJkMyvA3iJOOm7uh78OLimEF4V60HvFoQSrLrobSX7OvvbI5MqLFlVSJxnmYWjug/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE96B8awD1An__RnCQLUlQYuLnRlYTUEHM3GxP_onFJnibQqJzsUzUjebHT8F-rg-in8OtPIKLpAGvJkMyvA3iJOOm7uh78OLimEF4V60HvFoQSrLrobSX7OvvbI5MqLFlVSJxnmYWjug/s320/001.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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My friend from college and colleague my first year teaching posted an adorable s'more goodie package she gave her kids on the last day of school. I totally stole this idea from her (with her permission of course). The kids had fun assembling all the pieces in the bag and talking about all the different ways they could cook the s'more this summer. The s'more clipart came from <a href="http://decoratingfromtheheart.blogspot.com/2011_08_01_archive.html">Decorating from the Heart</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmpL7rmcu3c9TWeQWTYOF5BzMdGyFsPr_eEmzVIgIx1-6x6cXNyw_CLM0y3CbH12Wneb4xMZ9lODI62iFC5PjJ7P3lU9gk4cp7A9dyqJilEM828CieFnc5EgsQFy97AZqjF2W_xA-0pc/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmpL7rmcu3c9TWeQWTYOF5BzMdGyFsPr_eEmzVIgIx1-6x6cXNyw_CLM0y3CbH12Wneb4xMZ9lODI62iFC5PjJ7P3lU9gk4cp7A9dyqJilEM828CieFnc5EgsQFy97AZqjF2W_xA-0pc/s320/003.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Now I will spend next week packing up my classroom and preparing for a summer full of flip flop tan lines, European vacation with my hubby, and no alarm clocks!</div>Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-38044483161904832752012-06-04T16:00:00.000-04:002012-06-04T19:18:04.990-04:00Tea Wreath from PinterestMy mom loves drinking tea. She must have at least two or three cups a day. So, when I came across this beauty on Pinterest, I knew I had to make one for my mom on her birthday.<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/116389971589396485/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://media-cache2.pinterest.com/upload/116389971589396485_lndZjTzY_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://kojodesigns.blogspot.com/2010/03/kojotutorial-tea-tea-tea-kitchen-wreath.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">kojodesigns.blogspot.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/jenheartsdustin/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Jennifer</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Here is my version:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3bmINcWWeAl5twlYH1nHI8wXRdxULXArnEkLNYZtL_acPAGlpDwJij84Cr9Ddxk16UuARV2xGQ8fj2U8wiTIV68vgArvLbAE0L-alGxixbc6mu-cIrCQ3Q7R9Iqdru0xbftXEYnWaiPI/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3bmINcWWeAl5twlYH1nHI8wXRdxULXArnEkLNYZtL_acPAGlpDwJij84Cr9Ddxk16UuARV2xGQ8fj2U8wiTIV68vgArvLbAE0L-alGxixbc6mu-cIrCQ3Q7R9Iqdru0xbftXEYnWaiPI/s320/006.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I used an embroidery hoop, ribbon, clothespins, scrapbook paper, glue gun, and assorted tea bags. In hindsight, I wish I had used two different sizes of hoops to add some greater stability to the clothespins, because a few of them fell off in transit to Georgia. But I think my mom liked it!<br />
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I am linking up with The Pinterest Challenge, and you can too! Just follow the link below.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pinterestchallenge.com/2012/06/pinterest-challege-round-9.html">http://www.pinterestchallenge.com/2012/06/pinterest-challege-round-9.html</a>
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</div>Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5267464290127179291.post-27919876650873850072012-06-03T10:14:00.001-04:002012-06-03T10:14:10.349-04:00How to Plan R&R OverseasI want to start this off by saying that I am incredibly excited that we decided to meet up in Europe for Dustin's R&R instead of him just coming back stateside for two weeks. That being said, there are some particular challenges in planning an R&R trip in a foreign country.<br />
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1. <u>Flexible Dates and Flights</u> - Sure, when you are just planning on the 30-minute drive to pick up hubby from the airport in America, that is easy to be flexible. But what if you need to buy an overseas flight? I waited until about a month before his "window" of leaving and then bit the bullet to purchase my ticket. Instead of planning my trip for the 15 days of leave he should get, I booked my ticket for 21 days over there, meaning I have wiggle room even if he is a week late getting out of the combat zone. Sure, it means extra hotel costs for the extra 6 days, but it should avoid us having to make a lot of changes in the flight. Also, I did not book my flight through a third-party website, as those tickets are often nonrefundable and incredibly difficult or impossible to change. Instead, I went through Delta, and earned some sky miles. Plus I have the peace of mind that if I do need to change a leg of my flight, it will cost some money in change fees, but it will definitely be possible.<br />
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2. <u>Flexible Dates and Hotels</u> - Once I had a pretty good grip on how I wanted our tour of Europe to go, I started browsing Hotels.com to check out rooms. We booked all our hotels through Hotels.com for a couple reasons. Their Welcome Rewards allow us to earn a free night at a hotel for every 10 nights we stay and book through them. Which means, basically 9% off every time we stay at a hotel through them. Also, I only booked hotel rooms that had no cancellation fee. So that means, if we need to completely change our trip dates for some reason, we won't pay a penny for the hotel bookings we made. Sweet!<br />
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3. <u>Communicating Sans Cell Service or 3G Network</u> - I'll admit it, I am totally reliant on my smart phone. So what do I do when hubby and I will be both arriving in a foreign country without the ability to text or facebook message each other our arrival? Plus with no clue as to what day he will be arriving. Well, pray that I get there first. Then I am going to terribly butcher the French language while trying to ask someone at the front desk of our hotel to hold a key for my hubby there. Then, I e-mailed Dustin directions to take the train to our hotel, and he will ask the front desk staff for the key with his name on it, probably also butchering the French language just as badly as I will in the process. Hopefully, we will both end up in the same room! And then I plan to never leave his side until his two weeks of R&R time are up.<br />
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4. <u>Packing for Two</u> - The last time I traveled abroad, it was just me! This time I have to pack for Dustin as well. Which means I am going to take a taxi from the airport. It will be more expensive than taking the metro, but I simply can't risk having to carry 50 pounds of luggage up and down flights of stairs if my route takes me through one of the many, many stops in Paris without an escalator.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was my luggage when packing for one!</td></tr>
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So far, these are the only challenges that have crossed my brain about the fact that we are doing R&R overseas. I am crossing my fingers that all our careful planning goes off without a hitch and that we can be happily reunited soon! If I come up with any other details that helped my planning I will write another post about the tips, in the hopes it can help someone else navigate the process of planning R&R abroad.</div>Mrs. Colwellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937545496755393226noreply@blogger.com0