tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39336079891109325042024-03-04T19:58:12.695-08:00The Classy Broad...a collection of ideas, inspiration and inklings from my mind to yours...Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-66350690762687934242016-10-14T11:36:00.002-07:002016-10-14T12:11:22.135-07:00Number Two's First<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 100%;">
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It's hard to believe, my broads, but my second born will turn ONE in a little over two weeks. I remember walking around on Halloween night last year, so annoyed that I was still pregnant (I was convinced I was carrying an October baby, she had different plans). I went to bed in a bit of a bad mood only to wake up at 2am because Number Two decided that All Saints Day was her birthday holiday of choice. Well, now it's time to celebrate and I'm embracing the fact that she is one day shy of being a Halloween Baby with a pumpkin patch-inspired party in a couple of weeks. But in case anyone else out there has a similar idea, I thought I'd give some sneak peeks for inspiration. </div>
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<b>The Invite</b></div>
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I've said it before. I'll say it again. The invite sets the tone...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8jRRgKfa6U6QleN1da6uXEeWUHZsCQ9kTm_eCAsvEa5p6mZ0HKrIU73fah9DN-vv-IbR_2zYJVZAAthX5NktDUSCMd7fHPNRxWVqTsH3ZYx-OExO-xB1d-DXShKmHT5lk5sOyg68opFJY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-10-14+at+10.49.36+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8jRRgKfa6U6QleN1da6uXEeWUHZsCQ9kTm_eCAsvEa5p6mZ0HKrIU73fah9DN-vv-IbR_2zYJVZAAthX5NktDUSCMd7fHPNRxWVqTsH3ZYx-OExO-xB1d-DXShKmHT5lk5sOyg68opFJY/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-10-14+at+10.49.36+AM.png" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">You may have seen this post on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassybroadblog/" target="_blank">instagram</a> last month.<br />
I can't begin to explain how happy I am with these invites designed by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/saralukecreative" target="_blank">SaraLukeCreative</a>. They're perfect. Envelopes and <a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/Black-and-White-Washi-Tapes/900021.html" target="_blank">Washi Tape</a> from my second home, <a href="http://www.papersource.com/" target="_blank">Paper Source</a>. </span></td></tr>
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<b>The Ideas</b><br />
And boy, are there a lot... Here is the <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lucys_first/set?id=207468313" target="_blank">idea board</a> I created for the big bash. Links to all sources are in the link. (Spoiler Alert: It's a lot of Target, Paper Source & <a href="http://www.michaels.com/" target="_blank">Michaels</a>). One thing to note: the spray painted and mod-podged pumpkin ideas come from the lovely blog of <a href="http://sincerelysarad.com/" target="_blank">Sincerely, Sara D</a>. Check out the tutorial <a href="http://sincerelysarad.com/unique-ways-to-decorate-pumpkins/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lucys_first/set?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=207468313" target="_blank"><img alt="Lucy's First" border="0" src="http://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=WOkBmJg1yUrNjnChIQenpg&id=FKbWMTaS5hGyV7tUtfvecw&size=c600x523" height="523" title="Lucy's First" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lucys_first/set?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=207468313" target="_blank">Lucy's First</a> by <a href="http://allilucia.polyvore.com/?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger" target="_blank">allilucia</a> on <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">Polyvore</a></small></div>
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Despite how it may look, this really is a simple design with lots of corals, pinks and oranges with black & white and gold sprinkled in. There will be picnic-like food served and activities will include pumpkin decorating for kids. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9viaAHuhU541cB-ANpyfz6JSyU7a5wYB4hu4-0e495v6ZEy53NmwUWK_c7qit54AJd_Er1qQIomo_j0kQvxcoIHAU6cMOdzVzSfG8V6GZUalL1CHuvz4jd5x8y461__Uj4HMMoGVlkG7/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-10-14+at+11.16.24+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9viaAHuhU541cB-ANpyfz6JSyU7a5wYB4hu4-0e495v6ZEy53NmwUWK_c7qit54AJd_Er1qQIomo_j0kQvxcoIHAU6cMOdzVzSfG8V6GZUalL1CHuvz4jd5x8y461__Uj4HMMoGVlkG7/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-10-14+at+11.16.24+AM.png" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Which, reminds me... have you seen these ridiculously cute <a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=pumpkin%20decorating#sn-50860588" target="_blank">pumpkin kits</a> from <a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=pumpkin%20decorating#sn-50860588" target="_blank">Target</a>?? <br />
I know what I'll be doing this weekend...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNq_QrK0vOQl2Rs9ITxSzzTN-J2LLB15npNXaNW3paZYPjTy4PCnLrq2SUEhf9gl5HjFWVKl9pkNK54CITRbx9O7DpR2uNXYgmReoVKasWxQa7CJeqV3zDBwR-uAUZHZpPLXlg8o1HJJx/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-10-14+at+10.49.53+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNq_QrK0vOQl2Rs9ITxSzzTN-J2LLB15npNXaNW3paZYPjTy4PCnLrq2SUEhf9gl5HjFWVKl9pkNK54CITRbx9O7DpR2uNXYgmReoVKasWxQa7CJeqV3zDBwR-uAUZHZpPLXlg8o1HJJx/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-10-14+at+10.49.53+AM.png" width="317" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">So, there you have it. I will share ideas after the fact just like I did for </span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2015/06/the-big-one.html" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">the big ONE</a><span style="text-align: start;">.</span></span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"><br />
For now, in case you missed it, I'll leave you with what #2 plans on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BKTtr7aAFSi/?taken-by=theclassybroadblog">wearing</a>. Thank you again to</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: start;"> </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/reetmomma" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">reetmomma</a></span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> for making all of my hand-smocked pumpkin dreams come true...</span></td></tr>
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Until then, my broads... ~TCB</div>
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<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 194px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 222px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 194px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 222px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-26287389838284474462016-06-06T12:57:00.002-07:002016-10-14T11:53:35.331-07:00Laces Out<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 100%;"><div style="position: relative;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lp.hm.com/hmprod?set=key[source],value[/model/2016/C00%200381998%20004%2004%203664.jpg]&set=key[rotate],value[]&set=key[width],value[]&set=key[height],value[]&set=key[x],value[]&set=key[y],value[]&set=key[type],value[STILL_LIFE_FRONT]&hmver=2&call=url[file:/product/large]" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://lp.hm.com/hmprod?set=key[source],value[/model/2016/C00%200381998%20004%2004%203664.jpg]&set=key[rotate],value[]&set=key[width],value[]&set=key[height],value[]&set=key[x],value[]&set=key[y],value[]&set=key[type],value[STILL_LIFE_FRONT]&hmver=2&call=url[file:/product/large]" height="320" width="273" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This top is on-trend and under 20 Bucks. <br />
<a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/48409?article=48409-A&cm_" target="_blank">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>First things first. I will admit that I am a hockey fan so laced up shirts are somewhat calling my name for that reason. Rest assured, this is a trend that is neither too hockey sweater nor pirate-y and instead is so right. This style offers so much versatility.<br />
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What are you looking for? Sporty? Maybe flirty? Or preppy with a dash of nautical? This shirt can achieve all of those goals and more. It's a top that seems to be popping up everywhere as of late, which means the world is your oyster when it comes to price point. I've corralled some options below. My personal fave being the <a href="http://www.sezane.com/us/product/spring-summer-collection/blouse-gigi?cou_Id=681" target="_blank">Sezane Gigi Blouse</a>. If you've not yet perused this french apparel site, I apologize to your bank account now.<br />
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Still needs some convincing? This little power player will serve as your shirt and your accessory. No need for a necklace. See... I've already justified your next purchase for you, my broads.<br />
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And remember, Laces Out!<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/laces_out/set?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=200039900" target="_blank"><img alt="Laces Out" border="0" src="http://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=mfGoc5CM9I8sd2BfNmrfdQ&id=3vaYTbMr5hGQmE0NE83bcg&size=c600x563" height="563" title="Laces Out" width="600" /></a></div></div><br />
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<div style="padding-top: 16px;"><div style="clear: both; margin: 0em; padding: 0px;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=167678196" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=s&tid=167678196" height="50" hspace="4" style="background-color: white; border: 1px solid #cccccc; margin: 0 8px 8px 0; padding: 2px;" width="50" /></a></small></div><div style="margin-bottom: 8px; text-align: left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=167678196" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HD in Paris red top</a></small><br />
<small>anthropologie.com</small><br />
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<div style="clear: both; margin: 0em; padding: 0px;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=170074445" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" src="http://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=s&tid=170074445" height="50" hspace="4" style="background-color: white; border: 1px solid #cccccc; margin: 0 8px 8px 0; padding: 2px;" width="50" /></a></small></div><div style="margin-bottom: 8px; text-align: left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=170074445" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Madewell striped top</a></small><br />
<small>madewell.com</small><br />
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<div style="clear: both; margin: 0em; padding: 0px;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=171711889" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=s&tid=171711889" height="50" hspace="4" style="background-color: white; border: 1px solid #cccccc; margin: 0 8px 8px 0; padding: 2px;" width="50" /></a></small></div><div style="margin-bottom: 8px; text-align: left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=171711889" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Madewell ivory top</a></small><br />
<small>nordstrom.com</small><br />
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<div style="clear: both; margin: 0em; padding: 0px;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=173869162" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=s&tid=173869162" height="50" hspace="4" style="background-color: white; border: 1px solid #cccccc; margin: 0 8px 8px 0; padding: 2px;" width="50" /></a></small></div><div style="margin-bottom: 8px; text-align: left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=173869162" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Storee top</a></small><br />
<small>nordstrom.com</small><br />
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<div style="clear: both; margin: 0em; padding: 0px;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=170637630" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=s&tid=170637630" height="50" hspace="4" style="background-color: white; border: 1px solid #cccccc; margin: 0 8px 8px 0; padding: 2px;" width="50" /></a></small></div><div style="margin-bottom: 8px; text-align: left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=170637630" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cloth Stone sweater pullover</a></small><br />
<small>anthropologie.com</small><br />
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<div style="clear: both; margin: 0em; padding: 0px;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=169687776" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=s&tid=169687776" height="50" hspace="4" style="background-color: white; border: 1px solid #cccccc; margin: 0 8px 8px 0; padding: 2px;" width="50" /></a></small></div><div style="margin-bottom: 8px; text-align: left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=169687776" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Meadow Rue white pullover</a></small><br />
<small>anthropologie.com</small><br />
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<small><br style="display: none;" /></small></div></div></div>Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-11903749799115772122016-01-20T23:22:00.000-08:002016-01-21T23:59:48.469-08:00Baby..... You're Home<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 100%;"><div style="position: relative;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b1/5a/69/b15a69a72ae6513407d2ec0eb3a14a4b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b1/5a/69/b15a69a72ae6513407d2ec0eb3a14a4b.jpg" width="100%" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/47888952@N02/5686003878/in/photostream/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">{Via}</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Happy New Year, my Broads. I am sure you're tired of hearing about resolutions at this point. Mine was simple this year. I want to focus on quality rather than quantity in all aspects of my life. Being a new mom twice over has made me more aware of quality and what we really </span><i style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif;">need. </i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So this post is all about the needs of a new mom in those first hazy, crazy-in-love days that are long and fleeting all at once. I'll also share a dirty little secret of mine, which I might be struck by lightening from the blog-gods for sharing...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br />
</span> <b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Secret's Out</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You will find lists and pretty photo lays all over the inter webs of what to pack for your hospital stay. I am here to tell you once and for all that other than a working, safely installed carseat, you really only NEED one thing: A cute outfit to bring that nugget home in.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What? you're shocked? You've packed a huge bag of stuff a month in advance?? I know. So did I. Twice. And both times, guess what? If I had left it at home by mistake, I would have been fine! If you're fortunate enough to live in a developed country, hospitals have all you need. From breast pumps and tools to extra pillows to socks (cozy ones! with little tread thingies on the bottom!!) to even underwear and toiletries. You will not be without anything you need while at the hospital. But you know what, go ahead and pack that bag. And that cute floral robe you won't put on. And your makeup bag you won't open. Or maybe you will. If you do, you can shake your head at me for not actually being that classy as I wore a hospital gown, free socks and mesh undies for my entire stay.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">But once that last day in the hospital comes to an end, you need to go home. Here's what I think you need, you really really need, in those early weeks...</span><br />
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</span> <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/bringing_baby_home/set?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=188203277" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img alt="Bringing Baby Home" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/vbpnl6dGgGiloGDEMpdoxg/cid/188203277/id/_u1KgP_-5RGMmB8ZzX_htA/size/c600x518.jpg" title="Bringing Baby Home" width="100%" /></span></a></div></div><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 100%;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=160372607" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rock 'n Play</a> - Even if you love snuggles or are lucky enough to have extra hands in the early days, you will need somewhere to put the baby. This rocker can be carried easily from room to room, vibrates like a little mini massage chair and even tilts baby up which can help alleviate reflux. It also collapses easily if you need to bring it with you somewhere. It's the best and the price is right. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2. <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=160522925" rel="nofollow">Footie Pajamas</a> - It has been scientifically proven that babies are incapable of keeping socks on both of their feet for more than 5 minutes. Add that to the fact that sleep deprivation makes snapping little tiny snaps a daunting task and you'll understand why I recommend these footed zip up jammies. There are plenty of brands and price ranges, but I love anything from aden + anais because they are breathable and get softer with each wash. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">3. <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=160523561" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Swaddle Blankets</a> - You will spend approximately 2 hours each day wrapping, unwrapping and rewrapping your child into a burrito. Beyond the reasons I already listed for all things a+a, these can serve as a burp cloth, nursing cover and car seat/stroller drape in a pinch. Plus I couldn't make a board without something nautical themed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">4. <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=160524054" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">My Brest Friend</a> - Prior to birthing a child, the name of this product made my mature self roll my eyes and make a puking face. But I can now say this is not only one of my best friends, but it serves as extra hands. Nursing has a steep learning curve and while it comes easy to some, no one will tell you a nice pillow wasn't appreciated. For those it was harder for, like me, this pillow makes the early days a bit easier. I also am going to take back what I said earlier about the hospital and say that this should come along with you. Another plus? It comes with a little pocket to hold things like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bath-Body-Works-Bigelow-Salve/dp/B00FDXEDGG/ref=sr_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1453357827&sr=1-3&keywords=co+bigelow+rose+salve" target="_blank">lip balm</a> and other items you'll want close by and to get to with little movement, because you have a sweet, delicious smelling bambino sleeping on you...</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">5. <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=160372675" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Breast Pump</a> - My nursing experiences fell on opposite sides of the spectrum. I'll spare the good and bad details but basically this pump saved me both times. If you're having difficulties you'll want it to build up your supply and to bottle-feed expressed milk. If you're not struggling there is a high chance that at first you'll be producing at a faster rate than the baby consumes. In this case, you'll want it for relief. This handy version can work without being plugged into an outlet, which makes multitaskers like me rejoice. You'll be amazed at what you can accomplish while pumping. This starter kit has most necessary accessories, but <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Medela-Pump-Save-Breast-Count/dp/B00028XJNA/ref=sr_1_2?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1453358414&sr=1-2&keywords=medela+pump+and+save+bags" target="_blank">storage bags </a>will be needed as well. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">6. <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=124253408" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nursing Tank</a> - There are plenty of brands to choose from, but these from Target are comfortable, affordable and, if washed correctly, so durable. This goes double duty as a bra and base layer. I literally wear one every day and sleep in one every night. Stock up.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">7. <a href="http://www.mioskincare.com/mama-mio-keep-calm-nipple-balm-30ml/11098400.html?utm_source=googleprod&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=gp_bodycare&affil=thggpsad&switchcurrency=USD&shippingcountry=US&gclid=CPn3vNHPtsoCFUNffgodyF8CwQ&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Nipple Balm</a> - Remember that little pocket on the nursing pillow I talked about earlier? You'll want one of these toted around in it. This brings relief in the early days. Plus the name will make you giggle and, possibly, keep calm. I also used <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-20265-Disposable-Nursing-60-Count/dp/B002TLU5JO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1453359007&sr=8-2&keywords=disposable+breastfeeding+pads" target="_blank">disposable nursing pads</a> and made sure I had a few in the nursing pillow pocket, in my nightstand, bathroom, etc. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">8. <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=160523123" rel="nofollow">Cute Undies</a> - Let's be honest, you're not going to feel your most glamorous - and certainly not sexy - the first few days/weeks postpartum. You're also going to need comfortable, full-butt cotton chonies. Do yourself a favor and at least get cute ones. VS offers tons of styles and patterns. I'd recommend at least 5-10 pairs.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">9. <a href="http://Infant Tree by Kerri Lee Baby Age Blocks" target="_blank">Milestone Blocks </a>- I had to include at least one slightly unnecessary item in this mix. While you will be tired, you will be glad you took photos at various stages, especially the early ones. I love that these have the days/weeks/months variations. And if you miss certain markers by a day, remember the baby can't tell on you so just take the photo and pat yourself on the back.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">10. <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=118978165" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cozy Wrap Cardigan</a> - I saved the best for last. This thing is literally a blanket with arms and yet somehow doesn't make you look like a total schlep. It will keep you cozy on your own when you get those precious spurts of rest and it's perfect for covering you and baby during skin-on-skin time. My toddler still loves it. Get it. Or something like it.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Well there you have it. If you've read this far you may be as tired as a new mom. Now take this information and go take care of yourself or someone you love.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Cheers, my dears. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">~TCB</span><br />
<br />
</div></div>Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-34963145064657351792015-10-22T21:35:00.002-07:002016-01-14T17:10:20.717-08:00Brother Bear's New Room<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Since you saw that my first born was recently kicked out of his digs to make</span><a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2015/10/room-for-one-more.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank"> room for #2</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, It's only appropriate I share the changes I made to our guest room-turned-toddler bedroom. I'll be honest that this took much more thought and energy than the nursery did, mainly because this room needed to serve three purposes in 120 square feet: Bedroom, playroom and guest room. It's officially been used for each purpose and so far, so good! Here are the deets...</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">New Paint, Old Faves</span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0KM1VNQBY_UAM5Tsz0Q101y2MHrBWAFczdnCI0jhA6l_31jrTAWkBliQKBGa-THd9S3KtyWuhRsmD-mlXCx73vMXSb1PR9OKxGX4kgm3Ml2XxHbuQJx6uPccCcDtKU0EOGdgCS55TlgT/s1600/thumb_IMG_4358_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0KM1VNQBY_UAM5Tsz0Q101y2MHrBWAFczdnCI0jhA6l_31jrTAWkBliQKBGa-THd9S3KtyWuhRsmD-mlXCx73vMXSb1PR9OKxGX4kgm3Ml2XxHbuQJx6uPccCcDtKU0EOGdgCS55TlgT/s640/thumb_IMG_4358_1024.jpg" width="100%" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">First thing we did to update this room was give the previously dark tan walls some fresh paint. Mr. Broad was all about having some dark blue in the mix but I was a nervous nelly about painting an entire room that color. So we went with an accent wall and three more neutral walls. The colors of choice were some of my trusty favorites that I've both used myself and recommended to others many times. Accent wall is <a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/vandeusenblue" target="_blank">Van Deusen Blu</a>e and the other walls are <a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/moonshine" target="_blank">Moonshine</a>, both by Sir Benjamin Moore.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>A Bed for Big Brother</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRVm79lgybUDhXSbfTFVL5yQIp6FKOe6rGvhH6A2CsqX40W_gVBlCzmA125XXx2HxddG3jl84qaMOdimptTzYXcKI6DDzGcamAg3kxcTG_vnK63pcFZe2gSZL5g4pYd0BErJKPOaPLlU9/s1600/thumb_IMG_4359_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRVm79lgybUDhXSbfTFVL5yQIp6FKOe6rGvhH6A2CsqX40W_gVBlCzmA125XXx2HxddG3jl84qaMOdimptTzYXcKI6DDzGcamAg3kxcTG_vnK63pcFZe2gSZL5g4pYd0BErJKPOaPLlU9/s640/thumb_IMG_4359_1024.jpg" width="100%" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"> I was given the sage advice to keep my first born in a crib for as long as possible, at least until middle school, if he allows it. Therefore, I held off on getting a big boy bed for him but chose a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Mod-Modena-3-1/dp/B00E8KBYMG" target="_blank">crib</a> which had a toddler bed <a href="http://i5.walmartimages.com/dfw/dce07b8c-4f52/k2-_b0aa632a-5258-4925-a0da-650130ab141d.v1.jpg" target="_blank">conversion option</a> that I preferred since it will most likely be that for longer than it's a crib. We'll see how long we can keep this monkey caged.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">**Update**</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Since my initial post, I decided to add these paper pennants we had saved from our <a href="http://blog.joielala.com/2011/07/18/doug-alli-tiburon-wedding/" target="_blank">wedding</a>. The colors were perfect and I think it adds just that little extra something the room was missing.</span></div>
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</span></b> <b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Nerd Alert</span></b></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3JDP0Bw5Y4CnIng7AK38Ia5ZY1Gh67wtAFs0xEKed1YH-3LqK94nKTxzKWXkXll9bfhZaE0Yg-YOAZ6wShNoWDLvq4Bow66s8vUfY7NGH4ScZjX4xwLr5K9YzAea8Pd88n7zfzah-W5zg/s1600/thumb_IMG_4360_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3JDP0Bw5Y4CnIng7AK38Ia5ZY1Gh67wtAFs0xEKed1YH-3LqK94nKTxzKWXkXll9bfhZaE0Yg-YOAZ6wShNoWDLvq4Bow66s8vUfY7NGH4ScZjX4xwLr5K9YzAea8Pd88n7zfzah-W5zg/s640/thumb_IMG_4360_1024.jpg" width="100%" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Since I loved the look of the vintage school <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTobBCemjH5duTF4eP3KYYIfJfAIhFXi8W8XYw7yVGi-A-wYJON-c3AB6Jx8-yggGZiKQPpaPTl5jQdzclO4VQqrcDKbEs_BUX2pXCCw1mvrj8I7waNN9mI3LbWn_nFcUVzLdBRV42GVk/s1600/thumb_IMG_4315_1024.jpg" target="_blank">poster</a> from the baby's room, I knew I wanted to carry that theme into this room. Mr. Broad (who perhaps I should start calling Mr. Opinion!), really loved the idea of having the <a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/Cavallini-Periodic-Chart-Wrapping-Paper/3400_003/491346.html" target="_blank">periodic table of elements</a>. Some of my weaknesses include: 1. Dads who actually care about things like their child's room decor and, 2. Nerds. So, alas, we went with that option for the area above the crib. I bought the paper, some round dowels, and attached twine. It took about 10 minutes. Way too easy. For further instruction, check out the steps shown at <a href="http://refreshrestyle.com/vintage-inspired-poster/" target="_blank">Refresh Restyle</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><b>Gallery Dreams</b></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1z4SHes60IDiuHGG7RD83W85ifZoGvgdqvzFd_f-oSXosjKhRCpNyZKOlIdqIlbejESRHjItcQtxqpP0qUvg_f7-eHpfT8W9xTNsbjxUZfd83QjJH3qCBPBpu0P03TJgNEyoHPaRtQAbx/s1600/thumb_IMG_4383_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1z4SHes60IDiuHGG7RD83W85ifZoGvgdqvzFd_f-oSXosjKhRCpNyZKOlIdqIlbejESRHjItcQtxqpP0qUvg_f7-eHpfT8W9xTNsbjxUZfd83QjJH3qCBPBpu0P03TJgNEyoHPaRtQAbx/s640/thumb_IMG_4383_1024.jpg" width="100%" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Can you believe the bungalow was previously without a gallery wall? Crazy, I know! </span><span style="font-size: small;">I'd been waiting a long time for the right place to display some of our favorite sports memorabilia and here my chance arrived. While we dream of one day having an adult game room where we can hang many of these items, a little boy's room seems the next logical option. Mixed in with the sports swag were other sentimental items and memories from past travels.</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Which way to the guest room?</span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRokIM-sAQjv3t4caLMyoNGPELo2GDah3axnpe141K-i_p7_Xq9l6zl0nX6qVOBb9Hzu5DdQnIrzO1fJEGCvREfXQ7E_nPcOOPpR07caHJ_wgZUvUGvvySsSZpju9MH6Gcp-H7-CULS_2u/s1600/thumb_IMG_4374_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRokIM-sAQjv3t4caLMyoNGPELo2GDah3axnpe141K-i_p7_Xq9l6zl0nX6qVOBb9Hzu5DdQnIrzO1fJEGCvREfXQ7E_nPcOOPpR07caHJ_wgZUvUGvvySsSZpju9MH6Gcp-H7-CULS_2u/s640/thumb_IMG_4374_1024.jpg" width="582" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Space is tight in the bungalow, but that doesn't mean we will turn away guests! I scoured the internet for a sofa sleeper that was small enough to fit in this corner of the room while able to sleep two. Meet the </span><a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/axis-ii-slipcovered-full-sleeper-sofa/s226351?b=1?affiliate=1552&adpos=1o9&creative=44761147496&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=CJaihPXb18gCFUiGfgodzGkBQw" target="_blank">Axis II Full Sleeper Sofa</a><span style="background-color: white;"> from C&B. It checked the boxes in terms of size and scored major bonus points since its covers can be machine washed. The best part? I actually got mine used. And you better believe I washed every inch of it a couple times over. And though white seems crazy at first for a high traffic room, it also means it can be bleached. Genius. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELVOJvjOlNyWDwIpiomc2ZCDY4j0jfvKfUpV70oig7Z-fzmuApRlD78CKygNlx2L1Ai3FS5TG_oq78jOERGR_Py3j80u9nhGHJwfQKX7b3wAJqTburgBzV4eL1LIjYwJ5N29XhzwvkRHf/s1600/FullSizeRender_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELVOJvjOlNyWDwIpiomc2ZCDY4j0jfvKfUpV70oig7Z-fzmuApRlD78CKygNlx2L1Ai3FS5TG_oq78jOERGR_Py3j80u9nhGHJwfQKX7b3wAJqTburgBzV4eL1LIjYwJ5N29XhzwvkRHf/s640/FullSizeRender_1.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9hyphenhyphenVd6FlqqLAIvh207Vz58zdwH7qsRJjG0MFCJA0xtNfvpvHU5G5kG9GcpFYYifFefXxlR3BMqrf6WpNBk9yxctidL3Tmt8hKnmWcwBDUnYMAOahIqXjQpNzUmxxSE5lLro6JTBUw1kA/s1600/thumb_IMG_4373_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="543" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9hyphenhyphenVd6FlqqLAIvh207Vz58zdwH7qsRJjG0MFCJA0xtNfvpvHU5G5kG9GcpFYYifFefXxlR3BMqrf6WpNBk9yxctidL3Tmt8hKnmWcwBDUnYMAOahIqXjQpNzUmxxSE5lLro6JTBUw1kA/s640/thumb_IMG_4373_1024.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I'm nothing if not consistent. Another piece of wrapping paper turned art, this time <a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/Cavallini-Hemispheres-2-Wrapping-Paper/3400_003/9781619926745.html" target="_blank">Cavallini's Hemispheres</a>.</span></div>
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<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9qwgU3A-7xV3XIXyvd-HodP4nl5uEHQw2fvFY6PPymwtbrJ7y5pSLH_PR5LZxz6ibC4J5lpNiLzamDdgah5L6MU1fjm3k9TA_jaRNv2e7NO8vb7sQzHo-ARM-ldFqqxPbX1qpi_Orj3Lz/s640/thumb_IMG_4375_1024.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="100%" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I'm planning to update this basic <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40159837/" target="_blank">dresser</a> with some fun knobs. Perhaps </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://dwyerhomecollection.com/Nautical-Jute-Rope-Cabinet-Knobs-Drawer-Pulls-P3130739.aspx?utm_source=google&utm_medium=Product_Search&utm_campaign=google_base&gclid=COLa2dDe18gCFUVufgodAzEMiA" target="_blank">these</a>?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMFCcJE6FLpn87QJ8uKdPK3q3Rgq3x8MgKqDupRhoJkSlT_6QeMIPGCbra2fqPL9613uxo98OIdl4_HeDLaPeCX5BrIJD-eQneVIcoQrK3a3MgROc_YxzB5Nte9itJIE1l8uRVOocg67P/s1600/thumb_IMG_4378_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMFCcJE6FLpn87QJ8uKdPK3q3Rgq3x8MgKqDupRhoJkSlT_6QeMIPGCbra2fqPL9613uxo98OIdl4_HeDLaPeCX5BrIJD-eQneVIcoQrK3a3MgROc_YxzB5Nte9itJIE1l8uRVOocg67P/s640/thumb_IMG_4378_1024.jpg" width="100%" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white;">If you couldn't tell by other posts, reading is encouraged in our home. While shelves are still stocked with kids' books from my </span><a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2014/02/bookworm-baby-b.html" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Book Shower</a><span style="background-color: white;">, I added some mature options. Both The Alchemist and The Great Gatsby hold special places in my and Mr. Broad's hearts. </span></span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A place for all the THINGS</span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThBiykLy_iBzZVhs_eObr_k772BoJ3aceJ4GeS7Qq5QE0V8ujshEsP0nm_YjtmDJc0K2OWsmH1Qx2yqI6ZDLJB-jghG67JN5-IgVCMBN32qf1C43MFLoxir26wGRDYStLxOzr0JLXm26z/s1600/thumb_IMG_4380_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThBiykLy_iBzZVhs_eObr_k772BoJ3aceJ4GeS7Qq5QE0V8ujshEsP0nm_YjtmDJc0K2OWsmH1Qx2yqI6ZDLJB-jghG67JN5-IgVCMBN32qf1C43MFLoxir26wGRDYStLxOzr0JLXm26z/s640/thumb_IMG_4380_1024.jpg" width="100%" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">The most exciting part of making this room serve as play room was that it meant our living room was able to turn back into a grown up room. Hooray! Many of the items that are now nicely stored in these here shelves were previously divided amongst #1's old room and a corner of our living room. While there is still way more stuff than I'd like, this is real life. The good news? Said THINGS have a cute home in the <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60282520/#/80275887" target="_blank">KALLAX</a> shelves and <a href="http://www.landofnod.com/dk.-blue-stripes-around-the-cube-bin/s560332?a=1081&adpos=1o2&creative=47624350857&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=CPWH95De18gCFUiEfgodNwUF4Q" target="_blank">Stripes Around the Cube Bins</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3-in-1 Room Complete! And I think I'll take a break now.... or at least until #2 arrives.</span><br />
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Cheers my dears,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">~TCB</span><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-C6Gf0KdwS3k%2FViltkMh1QjI%2FAAAAAAAAFUg%2F87TaHhrG76c%2Fs1600%2Fthumb_IMG_4378_1024.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 5643px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-C6Gf0KdwS3k%2FViltkMh1QjI%2FAAAAAAAAFUg%2F87TaHhrG76c%2Fs1600%2Fthumb_IMG_4378_1024.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 5643px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D3496314506465735179&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-43kiZcSRe3o%2FVinDnPFD8WI%2FAAAAAAAAFVk%2FZI7D8nx1WNs%2Fs640%2Fthumb_IMG_4360_1024.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 38px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1519px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D3496314506465735179&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-43kiZcSRe3o%2FVinDnPFD8WI%2FAAAAAAAAFVk%2FZI7D8nx1WNs%2Fs640%2Fthumb_IMG_4360_1024.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 38px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1519px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-46989492099454894712015-10-22T17:16:00.002-07:002015-10-22T21:38:41.212-07:00Room for One More...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well my dears, this fall will bring yet another change for the broad and her brood. It could be days or weeks, but our little family of 4 (including our pup, of course!) will be adding one more into the mix. Personally, I find fewer things more exciting than a new arrival. And the fact that I got a chance to design two (!) new spaces was the icing on the cake. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Come along while I show you the updates made to the current nursery to prepare for #2....I think you'll find most of the foundation remained the same from the <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2014/03/the-nesting-broad_3.html" target="_blank">first time</a> around, but I added some new touches. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>If it ain't broke, don't re-paint. </b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEH3t04tDqAdbqloWOy2L5rvHhRCEquJK4pVUIikfcCBZnRn4gd04fU1BTuBIdOqPagAAd6CSulsoyimwpb-oyWXuXD0G81w98Lec_O3pibQ_iiD43EfyId2xVjzT1GZ0FlBZpn1kODP_/s1600/thumb_IMG_4301_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEH3t04tDqAdbqloWOy2L5rvHhRCEquJK4pVUIikfcCBZnRn4gd04fU1BTuBIdOqPagAAd6CSulsoyimwpb-oyWXuXD0G81w98Lec_O3pibQ_iiD43EfyId2xVjzT1GZ0FlBZpn1kODP_/s640/thumb_IMG_4301_1024.jpg" width="511" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Even though we moved to the bungalow after designing my son's nursery, we had paint remaining and I couldn't resist making his room in our new home the same as his first in San Francisco. The paint was chosen prior to knowing our son's gender and it really does work for either. Paint is Benjamin Moore's <a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/coolmint" target="_blank">Cool Mint</a>. </span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS8n44hXap5uSsH6-Y_PnBt066FP40zVpfdaH7PD1i-JcjXsaX8m7Gl4ubo-7hESWfcuLQzngoTr3l7LQBLMsm75riGwzyGoYEbLH2izsDkZHDVl6rosX2w_uCUk3dXFeA0yXI8i4wwDhL/s1600/thumb_IMG_4306_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS8n44hXap5uSsH6-Y_PnBt066FP40zVpfdaH7PD1i-JcjXsaX8m7Gl4ubo-7hESWfcuLQzngoTr3l7LQBLMsm75riGwzyGoYEbLH2izsDkZHDVl6rosX2w_uCUk3dXFeA0yXI8i4wwDhL/s640/thumb_IMG_4306_1024.jpg" width="523" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1JW82OjyebkOeOcZwfuXt0a46ORPYH-fRFg5YC-LMwJkuOzO7mu3m2mBSBF1QwuozKHvRjUdYJ27lF3VtqqO_JmG0pC1hl3w-GXnXkrnYiLLHbwgwb__TvQGBrcBwPn_kvlijmDUICqVk/s1600/thumb_IMG_4308_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1JW82OjyebkOeOcZwfuXt0a46ORPYH-fRFg5YC-LMwJkuOzO7mu3m2mBSBF1QwuozKHvRjUdYJ27lF3VtqqO_JmG0pC1hl3w-GXnXkrnYiLLHbwgwb__TvQGBrcBwPn_kvlijmDUICqVk/s640/thumb_IMG_4308_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhATBDiEj2B_auG0enw0yA0PmoLlfOBELhpQKEXLipFGFPqL1t0DJD1Oeg8EG3qoPhlhfyKW0lKTo9Rd1sugHgpSopbxwdD8UUDN44J3jUr06QZ4hELkw6IppmIdYp5tdNqLcZzB5jZxWys/s1600/thumb_IMG_4312_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhATBDiEj2B_auG0enw0yA0PmoLlfOBELhpQKEXLipFGFPqL1t0DJD1Oeg8EG3qoPhlhfyKW0lKTo9Rd1sugHgpSopbxwdD8UUDN44J3jUr06QZ4hELkw6IppmIdYp5tdNqLcZzB5jZxWys/s640/thumb_IMG_4312_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I kept most bedding the same from the first time around since the <span style="background-color: white;">Mocha<span style="color: #666666;"> </span>crib bumper and skirt from Serena & Lily (no longer available, my apologies!) </span>are perfectly neutral, but I added a new crib sheet which is the <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/cut-circle-crib-sheet/m10241.html" target="_blank">Cut Circle crib sheet in Peony</a>, also from S&L. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">The alphabet banner also remains. As a reminder, this is just <a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/Cavallini-English-ABCs-Wrapping-Paper/475230.html" target="_blank">wrapping paper</a>, some dowels and twine. Inspiration for the DIY was from <a href="http://www.homeheartcraft.com/blog/diy-dowel-hanging-nature-poster" target="_blank">Home Heart Craft</a>. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPKPCDns1LqUsUBkHKo9KSiqgrcQ79k6Ab4fL4-EJ5g8WT0JCw8fI0qNO2gLNhMHmx4Pf8LK50HGjazLWstFgFiGd0j_b6AQdg6Al5yCZ5OFfgnlF3Ltt1kuUSSDXhoKFQnt_k4gzYCrT/s1600/thumb_IMG_4322_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPKPCDns1LqUsUBkHKo9KSiqgrcQ79k6Ab4fL4-EJ5g8WT0JCw8fI0qNO2gLNhMHmx4Pf8LK50HGjazLWstFgFiGd0j_b6AQdg6Al5yCZ5OFfgnlF3Ltt1kuUSSDXhoKFQnt_k4gzYCrT/s640/thumb_IMG_4322_1024.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">This <a href="https://www.rhbabyandchild.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=rhbc_prod405429&categoryId=search" target="_blank">mobile</a> was hands down my son's favorite thing in his early months of life. It hangs over the changing table. </span></td></tr>
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<b>Whatcha Lookin' at Swan?</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89Z4csCsrDKwbC77DkI2MOH3A9zx-bP0pR1rjGKFyPC680Yy7YJfLiZgxUdfOn6ko48dRrO-9WR8wPsKLB_jO7ADCCgxvYkiVDwctS86oCtMJtuuknjqgiqqaiK03P__lsPZ15zO0lLO1/s1600/thumb_IMG_4325_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89Z4csCsrDKwbC77DkI2MOH3A9zx-bP0pR1rjGKFyPC680Yy7YJfLiZgxUdfOn6ko48dRrO-9WR8wPsKLB_jO7ADCCgxvYkiVDwctS86oCtMJtuuknjqgiqqaiK03P__lsPZ15zO0lLO1/s640/thumb_IMG_4325_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I have no idea what "I'll be your Swan" means, but when I walked into <a href="http://www.pippaco.com/" target="_blank">Pippa & Co</a>. and saw this print, I needed it. Print by <a href="http://leahduncan.com/shop/4594723" target="_blank">Leah Duncan</a>. Bay Area Broads - do yourself a favor and make it a point to get to Pippa & Co. in Alameda. You will not be disappointed. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;"><b>You'll never know, dear, how much I love you...</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IFmXsf6lobh1Yxd7TDtdG0v0YTi-GfSi09J-KimHNGT2kEZMaMB9LQe8TfCUpGlXYCx7ov9K1H_Ml50wCBj8Kpd2-fl4_of1l1mZcoJNY5R8I3Qym-R9zf92EtYOnz-5zH45REt5h8gJ/s1600/thumb_IMG_4327_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IFmXsf6lobh1Yxd7TDtdG0v0YTi-GfSi09J-KimHNGT2kEZMaMB9LQe8TfCUpGlXYCx7ov9K1H_Ml50wCBj8Kpd2-fl4_of1l1mZcoJNY5R8I3Qym-R9zf92EtYOnz-5zH45REt5h8gJ/s640/thumb_IMG_4327_1024.jpg" width="454" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">A sweet friend painted this for me and I just love it so. When she gave it to me, she said "You know, everyone quotes the first part of 'You are my sunshine' but I think this line is the best of the song". I couldn't agree more. Plus, there's nothing like a one-of-a-kind piece handmade by a friend. </span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTPUVpa1L7p2mIhbDldRSoWIhX-ZaYo9LruEeZLVBACSBDWR2MxlW9MLOnU01YPbO46B_Zw1iFmH9J0dJQFVzMsZ8v-om7uRguJB1OQ98-NYNOwY0ayFo6saZYFafsFlWq2CPxGR5vnQC/s1600/thumb_IMG_4331_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTPUVpa1L7p2mIhbDldRSoWIhX-ZaYo9LruEeZLVBACSBDWR2MxlW9MLOnU01YPbO46B_Zw1iFmH9J0dJQFVzMsZ8v-om7uRguJB1OQ98-NYNOwY0ayFo6saZYFafsFlWq2CPxGR5vnQC/s640/thumb_IMG_4331_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Shelfie Love</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNV5PVU3dLOwH1eC7wVvAufTe3X1WIRXMHvdJ6o6hG5CABtP9jYh3cNDPZJG9q9iFM0h5MsjgNfftjh8Jy94TSC_vAQiQ-7CcgRXuAolrZPKXU4KjHgnX0WcUWxLH3QXdX4lcUCPQ41jYW/s1600/thumb_IMG_4338_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNV5PVU3dLOwH1eC7wVvAufTe3X1WIRXMHvdJ6o6hG5CABtP9jYh3cNDPZJG9q9iFM0h5MsjgNfftjh8Jy94TSC_vAQiQ-7CcgRXuAolrZPKXU4KjHgnX0WcUWxLH3QXdX4lcUCPQ41jYW/s640/thumb_IMG_4338_1024.jpg" width="494" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">This area on the leaning shelf is my favorite part of the room. On the topic of art that speaks to me, I had been looking for a reason to buy a piece of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ClareElsaesser" target="_blank">Clare Elsaesser</a>'s work and the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/239929817/days-end-giclee-art-print?ref=shop_home_active_2" target="_blank">Days End</a> print worked perfectly with the color scheme. Check her out. Her work is the bee's knees. The framed quoted print has been in the room since before #1 arrived so the torch has been passed. Oh and <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-plushtoys/34667196.jsp#/" target="_blank">Flavia</a>! Isn't she fabulous? Who doesn't need a little flamingo in their life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><b>A well read Broad</b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wZ0Zc7Zad1Boxnj2teekWgNgHEXITFVy_SRrjT5pMjtGaDBiAWTH4XJ-jonqJmRdWrRWuvELeWv2pysCxiGqiyUItZatOxaIF5onE3Ukr4QHGTn2afdBbyeLCvMzTp8nP7T3SHrRLSR7/s1600/thumb_IMG_4345_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wZ0Zc7Zad1Boxnj2teekWgNgHEXITFVy_SRrjT5pMjtGaDBiAWTH4XJ-jonqJmRdWrRWuvELeWv2pysCxiGqiyUItZatOxaIF5onE3Ukr4QHGTn2afdBbyeLCvMzTp8nP7T3SHrRLSR7/s640/thumb_IMG_4345_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I tried not to go too girly in this room, but I couldn't resist buying some of my favorite stories which all were about strong, intelligent, spirited women. My personal fave is Anne of Green Gables. I wanted so badly to be Anne when I was young; so much that I wished my hair was red! Books are published by Puffin In Bloom with gorgeous covers painted by <a href="https://riflepaperco.com/shop/books/" target="_blank">Rifle Paper Co. </a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSfsuifL56lP_TncpC0q3nnEveeONDSk-j9l0FuDyCIZCsZcfv2GBVMH4j7lZAyLQMbap14HRD_oTZtVNXNZjfUmH-4CmSZN_5ThbQ8SyNCJXuAHZ24VkC3fZMmsoCWYowKXHrXGpo5wsv/s1600/thumb_IMG_4347_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSfsuifL56lP_TncpC0q3nnEveeONDSk-j9l0FuDyCIZCsZcfv2GBVMH4j7lZAyLQMbap14HRD_oTZtVNXNZjfUmH-4CmSZN_5ThbQ8SyNCJXuAHZ24VkC3fZMmsoCWYowKXHrXGpo5wsv/s640/thumb_IMG_4347_1024.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I saw these fabric flowers at </span><a href="http://www.target.com/p/hand-made-modern-canvas-fabric-flowers-warm-colors/-/A-16782863?ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=16782863&ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=pla_seasonal+shopping&adgroup=sc_seasonal&LID=20pgs&KID=ff88c96a-2941-475d-a424-107ce7403bac&gclid=CPTE5MKk18gCFRRgfgodk2kP9g" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Target</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"> and bought them on a whim. A day later, I stuck each one on a kabob stick, threw them in a vase and called it a day!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCfpc3xS7EDqGXXJPXMqtax0og4Z30BaCIOgCM1XRX7IodO-sYzgCt0MWS-Ul2C19Pr5Yto760Gf0ikOmMkMe6rfCwsxxGakthbFnUhZr_EERR5tzTzMbBcVFVJywqW8CPKU3qiZiB8Xi/s1600/thumb_IMG_4350_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCfpc3xS7EDqGXXJPXMqtax0og4Z30BaCIOgCM1XRX7IodO-sYzgCt0MWS-Ul2C19Pr5Yto760Gf0ikOmMkMe6rfCwsxxGakthbFnUhZr_EERR5tzTzMbBcVFVJywqW8CPKU3qiZiB8Xi/s400/thumb_IMG_4350_1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Still love these shelves, decorated with many of the same books I received at my <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2014/02/bookworm-baby-b.html" target="_blank">Book Shower</a> for #1.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;"><b>Bags are packed</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFObsOgZ1tshotI_hlUhsui1bH23laGxErncZV1CsC93TgMC9HTenOmnHQSj9MRI8qmYCVR032mkvYIwsC3gX0qrO0SxkyWhQjf-_gLQgaavZWE1yajHmpdhYL06xCgV3s16Izp03DjkRj/s1600/thumb_IMG_4352_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFObsOgZ1tshotI_hlUhsui1bH23laGxErncZV1CsC93TgMC9HTenOmnHQSj9MRI8qmYCVR032mkvYIwsC3gX0qrO0SxkyWhQjf-_gLQgaavZWE1yajHmpdhYL06xCgV3s16Izp03DjkRj/s640/thumb_IMG_4352_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Still one of the best gifts I received was the personalized baby tote. It will serve as the hospital bag for both babes and has been used for many many trips since I received it, It will no doubt get even more mileage in the years to come. My pink tote was a gift from a friend for being her bridesmaid and I love it. Get your own at <a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/ballard-tote-bags/decor-pillows/tote/42338" target="_blank">Ballard Designs</a>. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;"><b>The piece de resistance!</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiw8R7da0lpvZYnSLtArynQUwGzCIcrFKjt31EO_3gnefw6wxwabP6CysFzAtMeQirbeSZDEyAbTUOOvV88zOID-NyAt08Kv9RJXb8HL0l7QWgHT7ZmHbMpBhWexx1flClI1XBFO2yhxvI/s1600/thumb_IMG_4353_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiw8R7da0lpvZYnSLtArynQUwGzCIcrFKjt31EO_3gnefw6wxwabP6CysFzAtMeQirbeSZDEyAbTUOOvV88zOID-NyAt08Kv9RJXb8HL0l7QWgHT7ZmHbMpBhWexx1flClI1XBFO2yhxvI/s640/thumb_IMG_4353_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I walked into the <a href="http://www.the-rusty-gate.com/" target="_blank">Rusty Gate</a> in Santa Cruz and saw this light fixture. It was sweet, subtle, feminin</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">e and a great price. I left that day without it but kept seeing it in my dreams. Luckily, my mama bear was able to snag it for me and it's literally the fixture of the room. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-fbs48nSqJ1cUn5UQQ1dTjxN-OpkHwristoRlzqolrlLk6kurWUrvojQ6MJ7OPYUWl2CkFcN7vIJgzEUytTWNDIVes4SEubLE6hqX6vs73hjKRWJkS7AhZ8qSZvDuC4nj-FqnTr3nv0t/s1600/thumb_IMG_4355_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-fbs48nSqJ1cUn5UQQ1dTjxN-OpkHwristoRlzqolrlLk6kurWUrvojQ6MJ7OPYUWl2CkFcN7vIJgzEUytTWNDIVes4SEubLE6hqX6vs73hjKRWJkS7AhZ8qSZvDuC4nj-FqnTr3nv0t/s640/thumb_IMG_4355_1024.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">one more look.....</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And that, my friends, is Baby Broad's room...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Until next time,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">~TCB</span><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-PitNxWp_9Z8%2FVilsZkpzmnI%2FAAAAAAAAFSc%2FNVTPbA96lmY%2Fs640%2Fthumb_IMG_4331_1024.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 5425px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-PitNxWp_9Z8%2FVilsZkpzmnI%2FAAAAAAAAFSc%2FNVTPbA96lmY%2Fs640%2Fthumb_IMG_4331_1024.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 5425px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-PitNxWp_9Z8%2FVilsZkpzmnI%2FAAAAAAAAFSc%2FNVTPbA96lmY%2Fs640%2Fthumb_IMG_4331_1024.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 5425px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-PitNxWp_9Z8%2FVilsZkpzmnI%2FAAAAAAAAFSc%2FNVTPbA96lmY%2Fs640%2Fthumb_IMG_4331_1024.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 5425px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-55382115544542727232015-08-28T22:00:00.000-07:002015-09-02T09:35:26.712-07:00Ready to POP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDFk3C63T_RDvyzUZ2UbyaYcuC6A4xSB7R2cPjTdNfJeurcD60vp_hahRPiQPPY14bhv2uVVIVWeUWJjWUjsg2afS4_ExPPerFrnVM72GtlY2F1BI_bgzq2WMpG_5cwE72P7x70OgqSQep/s1600/IMG_0553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDFk3C63T_RDvyzUZ2UbyaYcuC6A4xSB7R2cPjTdNfJeurcD60vp_hahRPiQPPY14bhv2uVVIVWeUWJjWUjsg2afS4_ExPPerFrnVM72GtlY2F1BI_bgzq2WMpG_5cwE72P7x70OgqSQep/s640/IMG_0553.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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Popsicles. They're refreshing, delicious and have been popping up (pun intended) in party themes and paper products for some time now. Well, when a dear friend decided she wanted a low-key "sprinkle" to celebrate her second bundle of joy on the way with her nearest and dearest, I knew I'd found my chance to get in on the action. With a baby due in August a popsicle theme worked perfectly. Naturally, I chose to embrace a "Ready to Pop" message as well because it was just too easy.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So here's all the pretty that came from the gathering. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Invite</b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLJePaUXi5NeZV9UggDxFrW_I9U3xrbvUYjDelXvamQB7AExJ6hi-CXrrs_3aolzxArMksqU6lEmYbqB0eeYyu20-91JEp74u2rRcC1R_913YorblyCT51MeduWLGga5IysDXMGwvqV82/s1600/ready+to+pop-sicle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLJePaUXi5NeZV9UggDxFrW_I9U3xrbvUYjDelXvamQB7AExJ6hi-CXrrs_3aolzxArMksqU6lEmYbqB0eeYyu20-91JEp74u2rRcC1R_913YorblyCT51MeduWLGga5IysDXMGwvqV82/s1600/ready+to+pop-sicle.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I've said it before and I'll say it again. the invitation sets the tone. While this was a more casual celebration thrown at a restaurant and an online invite would have sufficed, I knew I would have less chances for decor at the gathering so took full advantage of a fun way to kick off the party. I ordered these adorable paper invites from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LDPartyShop" target="_blank">LDPartyShop</a>. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTpsYlqrNcyaYNZQ_clfzy5BdLCe-oeu7DWlDJoPhKQ3wClHXFjBDPO1xOMoJI1Fw0cAWSIX6V4dpeSX974B454Bg0d_dOosJC4mcrBKrsWcEwz4XAr7Os3DSDIVZ0VFpQKERh9Y0AFAb/s1600/IMG_0232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTpsYlqrNcyaYNZQ_clfzy5BdLCe-oeu7DWlDJoPhKQ3wClHXFjBDPO1xOMoJI1Fw0cAWSIX6V4dpeSX974B454Bg0d_dOosJC4mcrBKrsWcEwz4XAr7Os3DSDIVZ0VFpQKERh9Y0AFAb/s640/IMG_0232.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">While I loved the invite, I have been wanting to execute the idea of an actual popsicle shaped invite for quite some time. So, I cut around the artwork, glued a popsicle stick on the back and used the scraps to cover the stick. The invites were printed on both sides, with the cute polka dot pattern you see above on the back. So gluing paper over it made the back appear seamless. Details, my broads. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b> The Favor</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If you couldn't already tell, it was quite a challenge for me to "scale back" with this party. I called the restaurant ahead of time asking what was allowed and pretty much was shut down on most of my go-to's (paper runners.... sigh). But I knew I could do favors! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: start;">So I got crafty and used this idea from <a href="http://sarahhearts.com/2015-05-27/pillow-box-popsicles/?crlt.pid=camp.OYXyyCfUv0jb" target="_blank">Sarah Hearts</a> to make popsicle-shaped favor boxes. The only difference was that I bought the pillow boxes </span>from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/StudioIdea?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">Studio Idea</a> because, I don't have the patience to cut my own pillow boxes without losing my mind. or messing up. and then crying that I messed up. But i digress...</span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP98GPYtDvZfL0HP-fYDmXjSVaxYHUGyef1CuYaHfXjj1XGEEcey0EFMVVvdh1bAIOVL47aNakeuW2bfRSd6XPf1kyeI1-uSoQsTcCjF7Xtns2MZrYN7jH_r-TKFkRFyJj0FZQJL-2kGHZ/s1600/IMG_0494+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP98GPYtDvZfL0HP-fYDmXjSVaxYHUGyef1CuYaHfXjj1XGEEcey0EFMVVvdh1bAIOVL47aNakeuW2bfRSd6XPf1kyeI1-uSoQsTcCjF7Xtns2MZrYN7jH_r-TKFkRFyJj0FZQJL-2kGHZ/s640/IMG_0494+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I filled these bad boys with colorful saltwater taffy. Note to self: candy by the pound adds up fast. I eyeballed what I thought I needed, then after hearing the weight, decreased by TWO POUNDS. I still had leftover taffy. Not a problem, but trying to help a fellow broad out when they're making candy store decisions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><b>The Decor</b></span></div>
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Though I ran into some obstacles, I was allowed to bring in some flowers, minimal balloons and some stirrers and straws. I also brought confetti to scatter across the tables (it seemed appropriate given that this was a "sprinkle") but then the day was a bit windy and I didn't want to make myself or anyone else pick up hundreds of pieces of confetti.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvxsRj0MjcswSSd5OQYohxxD0ix4_Vxlz-uzAkTFfvD_fS8eBhgenwFaYze1iQcF9SjJiDobXlAwiUsb4cTMmDNyKif9yJ-poFGmqPZ1VRfpHEZR7YvpGOVA6cxH99adI-MWUDuoy0ecRp/s1600/IMG_3852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="625" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvxsRj0MjcswSSd5OQYohxxD0ix4_Vxlz-uzAkTFfvD_fS8eBhgenwFaYze1iQcF9SjJiDobXlAwiUsb4cTMmDNyKif9yJ-poFGmqPZ1VRfpHEZR7YvpGOVA6cxH99adI-MWUDuoy0ecRp/s640/IMG_3852.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">I used the favors as the main piece of table decor. It was the perfect touch.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qiYYxRESQOyoepVhe2LHURZkminyn5zawcgI36bypA9fo928OzL7it6NEAkq_dGCagvV21tDMMHS3ErU738_8l000swgHbY2XHpTvyJpFVATNDi9sW6jCuzpy5tnfmmpdeakt9rF5aXJ/s1600/IMG_3857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qiYYxRESQOyoepVhe2LHURZkminyn5zawcgI36bypA9fo928OzL7it6NEAkq_dGCagvV21tDMMHS3ErU738_8l000swgHbY2XHpTvyJpFVATNDi9sW6jCuzpy5tnfmmpdeakt9rF5aXJ/s640/IMG_3857.jpg" width="612" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I kept the flower colors simple since there was so much color otherwise. I made flags using popsicle-themed washi tape from<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/wrapworks?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank"> wrap works</a>. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Once drinks were served, guests used the striped and polka dot straws I armed them with at their place settings.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2OdRsMxMKZaqMPauuqKkdsGrFfkb5qWb4boo_yqyQfGEmc0h65hevO8J9eeBNZ2mJMcl6dgMGVNfRlFj31ddRtJd9fzAAtw9kVsk2T5y0wDPjLIhmAm3SaZBZyPloFbUsOBQbRPL3iJ0g/s1600/IMG_3853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2OdRsMxMKZaqMPauuqKkdsGrFfkb5qWb4boo_yqyQfGEmc0h65hevO8J9eeBNZ2mJMcl6dgMGVNfRlFj31ddRtJd9fzAAtw9kVsk2T5y0wDPjLIhmAm3SaZBZyPloFbUsOBQbRPL3iJ0g/s640/IMG_3853.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">When I asked if balloons were allowed, I was told yes but only a couple. So I abided and brought only 3. They just happened to be really large ones. Clear balloons and confetti from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/knotandbow?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">Knot & Bow.</a> </span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuHPnJUz3CCrNQb0F4Qsqqa2fgF0Xn5vl9jbJpt0aMoIrcXcvRBicZJ8trbhi4otvycKmmuIHUCZqxFHbYx5Nxq9-8u5DTzXFq6Fh6fRteTE53PaBq9gGqLKIFkPsCDz8OyD3gNYyunSI/s1600/IMG_3856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuHPnJUz3CCrNQb0F4Qsqqa2fgF0Xn5vl9jbJpt0aMoIrcXcvRBicZJ8trbhi4otvycKmmuIHUCZqxFHbYx5Nxq9-8u5DTzXFq6Fh6fRteTE53PaBq9gGqLKIFkPsCDz8OyD3gNYyunSI/s640/IMG_3856.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Happy Mama</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">The guest of honor enjoying her sprinkle. If she looks familiar, it's because I shared her <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/08/pink-or-blue.html" target="_blank">Pink and Blue Baby Shower</a> over 2 years ago. </span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopp3qWpa8CawlZhTzvgWd6UDegA1DBAW7Yh3kN6bxhKTCCqxKLObGnXoNy0M5-10cwICh938QN0OwyObK9v85G4qOcg5PCQbu-kVzQCWaOhTl3TyM5Hr4Lfai78YdzbfIL6-Y3eczHr9l/s1600/4661007848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopp3qWpa8CawlZhTzvgWd6UDegA1DBAW7Yh3kN6bxhKTCCqxKLObGnXoNy0M5-10cwICh938QN0OwyObK9v85G4qOcg5PCQbu-kVzQCWaOhTl3TyM5Hr4Lfai78YdzbfIL6-Y3eczHr9l/s400/4661007848.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">My favorite hostess-to-guest-of-honor gift to give is Thank You notes in the theme of the party I've thrown. <a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/Ice-Pops-A2-Stationery/4661007848.html" target="_blank">Paper Source </a>didn't let me down. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And that, my broads, is how TCB does a sprinkle. While it was tough to not go full broad with the details and decor, it was fantastic to leave the restaurant and not do more than 3 minutes of post-party clean up. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Until next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">~TCB</span></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-wFgoyBhZRt0%2FVeEcye3P8dI%2FAAAAAAAAFK8%2FKsb3ffwcMmY%2Fs640%2FIMG_0232.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 20px; left: 33px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; text-align: justify; top: 1214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3933607989110932504%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-wFgoyBhZRt0%2FVeEcye3P8dI%2FAAAAAAAAFK8%2FKsb3ffwcMmY%2Fs640%2FIMG_0232.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=xxRGsnSsT9xF&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 20px; left: 33px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-6514149037556164952015-07-31T09:13:00.000-07:002015-07-31T09:15:11.186-07:00Sunny Disposition //TC #seesummerbetter<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Swift decision making is not one of my virtues. Decision making about larger purchases for items that are meant to last a while are even more paralyzing for me. And with summer in full swing, I was faced with the need for some new fun sunglasses (or as I like to call them "Funglasses") and thus, deciding which pair I should purchase.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well my broads, the folks at Warby Parker know how to handle a waffler like me. Allow me to introduce you to their <a href="https://www.warbyparker.com/home-try-on" target="_blank">Home Try-On program</a>. That's right. HOME as in they send 5 <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses" target="_blank">sunnies</a> of your choosing directly to you, TRY ON as you gallivant around town with cute sunnies on awaiting compliments from the masses. Upon receiving said compliments and also learning what you like and don't about each pair, you either decide you don't need any, that you need ALL of them, or maybe just a pair. And then you send them back. It's real. Believe me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, I decided to peruse the site and pick a few looks. Below were my selections and I must say that it took a lot for me to break out of my classic brown-tortoise-only shell I've been living in the past decade and choose some different options to give a chance. And I am so glad I did! The winner surprised me, but I'll share more of that later. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Care to see them in action? I thought you'd never ask!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqx9TTXGW-hUamOt1fZslZ-8xi9ddsBdpfz8HHH_vqgxpJ30FEOppXuwW_fuCLPuQyKCVLsFDL_4cuRedMBnEYFrmyq1udeKmCpKt5XB2PDSiWADY_iINqDOabBtPd-6WjUApWQ-3YstU/s1600/IMG_0537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqx9TTXGW-hUamOt1fZslZ-8xi9ddsBdpfz8HHH_vqgxpJ30FEOppXuwW_fuCLPuQyKCVLsFDL_4cuRedMBnEYFrmyq1udeKmCpKt5XB2PDSiWADY_iINqDOabBtPd-6WjUApWQ-3YstU/s400/IMG_0537.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Getting Dressed up in <a href="https://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses/women/banks/sea-smoke-tortoise" target="_blank">Banks</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0fsduKxGy9czsdBZnv4FsGWSx-h3dT8rP745Fnisx1dAsMyGaF6TjieLk1X0DQmEDt_4ax_Oa5SWFMWd5Sjc5qZqtzp7NsGEKTSKl0a6_pwzXeHgns3DruQPy0WHKPb_hBkZKTgVjOvYa/s1600/IMG_0549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0fsduKxGy9czsdBZnv4FsGWSx-h3dT8rP745Fnisx1dAsMyGaF6TjieLk1X0DQmEDt_4ax_Oa5SWFMWd5Sjc5qZqtzp7NsGEKTSKl0a6_pwzXeHgns3DruQPy0WHKPb_hBkZKTgVjOvYa/s400/IMG_0549.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Monday Commute in <a href="https://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses/women/halford/polished-gold" target="_blank">Halford</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlFrZJLn6KqwiVMTnOOlstK3wBwXlZZhECBZ3ExvKnW7mw9VDNvOYSEvPo2txagWk-adNcRWq95Owoljoz794wpFbVfYWg10YH_5aZOJjLV9dJW43j37LBszdGZ0ys-A5jWmYuNKhQHVr/s1600/IMG_0551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlFrZJLn6KqwiVMTnOOlstK3wBwXlZZhECBZ3ExvKnW7mw9VDNvOYSEvPo2txagWk-adNcRWq95Owoljoz794wpFbVfYWg10YH_5aZOJjLV9dJW43j37LBszdGZ0ys-A5jWmYuNKhQHVr/s400/IMG_0551.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses/women/jennings/beach-glass" target="_blank">Jennings</a> (and Bernie)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhPf4WNUfpzoAG9XOa7VYQvPDJSiSQzxAEY9rUCYrCNWg5v-dDN58gekH8YINS80FFhCRRlofQHWbl85lCyDwJhzoF5qn-8ExET4tz8IkucXvdQ_KfqmDJ4eP8QmGSi7VwumJMoR5F2DL/s1600/IMG_0552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhPf4WNUfpzoAG9XOa7VYQvPDJSiSQzxAEY9rUCYrCNWg5v-dDN58gekH8YINS80FFhCRRlofQHWbl85lCyDwJhzoF5qn-8ExET4tz8IkucXvdQ_KfqmDJ4eP8QmGSi7VwumJMoR5F2DL/s400/IMG_0552.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Sunday Sprinkle Brunch (post coming soon on that!) in <a href="https://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses/women/ellison/marbled-sandstone" target="_blank"> Ellison</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GtcyW2CCAfaek6shcYiEF3lfElshEJR0qYsBCMv4M8Aihy4jCOw-Lt1GBUV5CZGKQAf3lOMHIhh96fLgt-OuGIyDREmdNfEWbFVv9glk95MpcsK6AwJXnY1a1TQpoLFB-n2X8G2i5hbx/s1600/IMG_0567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GtcyW2CCAfaek6shcYiEF3lfElshEJR0qYsBCMv4M8Aihy4jCOw-Lt1GBUV5CZGKQAf3lOMHIhh96fLgt-OuGIyDREmdNfEWbFVv9glk95MpcsK6AwJXnY1a1TQpoLFB-n2X8G2i5hbx/s400/IMG_0567.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Messy Bunning it in <a href="https://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses/women/raglan/pearled-tortoise" target="_blank">Raglan</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I must say, I surprised myself and went with Ellison! The combo of shape, color and compliments made it easy. Now time for you to go try your 5 pairs and #SeeSummerBetter.</span><br />
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The Future is Bright, my Broads!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">~TCB</span></div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-55348024205563020972015-06-25T23:12:00.001-07:002015-06-25T23:12:57.155-07:00Hot Shoulder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://idressfortheimage.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/bardot-neckline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://idressfortheimage.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/bardot-neckline.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mme Bardot, former <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/09/tuesday-museday-mademoiselle-bardot.html" target="_blank">Tuesday Muse</a>, showing us how it's done. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I've always loved showing a little shoulder. I will blame the fact that I was born in the 80's on that. This spring and summer has been showing a lot of shoulder and I couldn't be happier about it. Here are some of TCB's favorite looks for shoulder-strutting' garb - from gypsy, to coquette, to señorita and everything in between....</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.asos-media.com/inv/media/5/3/6/8/4948635/image4xxl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://images.asos-media.com/inv/media/5/3/6/8/4948635/image4xxl.jpg" height="640" width="501" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Flow and Pink hued. Can you get more femme? </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Heels make it even more sexy while some fun gladiator-inspired sandals can keep is cas... </span><a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Gypsy-Off-Shoulder-Dress-with-Short-Sleeves/15pjo0/?iid=4948635&istCompanyId=467dd896-9a62-42c2-84d9-be2d13921f66&istItemId=rwwtwqwmx&istBid=t&channelref=google+shopping&affid=14174&channelref=google+shopping&utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_term=67839425025&utm_content=&utm_campaign=&cvosrc=ppc.google.67839425025&network=g&mobile=&search=1&content=&creative=60626525665&ptid=67839425025&adposition=1o2&r=2&mk=abc&gclid=CLnqmM-urMYCFZRgfgod3pELkQ" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Gypsy Off the Shoulder Dress, ASOS</a></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://images.bloomingdales.com/is/image/BLM/products/3/optimized/8775713_fpx.tif?wid=1200&qlt=90,0&layer=comp&op_sharpen=0&resMode=sharp2&op_usm=0.7,1.0,0.5,0&fmt=jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://images.bloomingdales.com/is/image/BLM/products/3/optimized/8775713_fpx.tif?wid=1200&qlt=90,0&layer=comp&op_sharpen=0&resMode=sharp2&op_usm=0.7,1.0,0.5,0&fmt=jpeg" height="640" width="512" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I don't even know what to say other than "How soon can I get to a Bloomies to buy this?" </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This works year long. For so many occasions. Perfection. </span><a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/aqua-dress-off-the-shoulder-stripe?ID=1359687&CategoryID=2911#fn=spp%3D15%26ppp%3D96%26sp%3D1%26rid%3D%26spc%3D76%26cm_kws%3Doff%20the%20shoulder%26cm_kws_ac%3Dfalse" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Off the Shoulder Stripe Dress - Bloomingdales</a></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.colormecourtney.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/IMG_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://www.colormecourtney.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/IMG_0005.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While I will be passing on the crop top trend this year, I really hope my fellow broads will embrace.This lacy cropped number is all kinds of right. <a href="http://www.colormecourtney.com/yellow-off-the-shoulder-lace-top-summer-style/" target="_blank">Photo Via Color Me Courtney</a>. </span><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/topshop-off-the-shoulder-lace-crop-top/4052560?origin=keywordsearch&cm_ven=Linkshare&cm_cat=partner&cm_pla=15&cm_ite=1&siteId=QFGLnEolOWg-e626OjE.EhVt11H5_pEdqg" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Top Shop Off the Shoulder Lace Top</a></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://g.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Gigantic/5/_10668045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://g.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Gigantic/5/_10668045.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This dress screams summer barbecue to me. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sip a margarita in this bad boy and embrace the loose style of this dress. The peek of shoulders and short length keep it from looking like a sack. And, really, who doesn't love tassels? Plus, you can keep going back to the chip bowl and not worry. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Tassel Trim Off the Shoulder Dress, </span><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/fire-tassel-trim-off-the-shoulder-dress-juniors/3947138?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=2375500&fashionColor=&resultback=600" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> or </span><a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/aqua-mini-dress-off-the-shoulder-tassel?ID=1345319&CategoryID=2911&LinkType=prodrec_pdpza&RecProdZonePos=prodrec-1&RecProdZoneDesc=CQ-CMIO-RT-POC%7CCQ-CMIO%7Cprodrec_pdpza%7CCMIO&choiceId=cidDE0011-ef1f93cb-cabd-465b-8c30-aa97a4f005d2@H9@CUSTOMERS%20ALSO%20VIEWED$2911$1345319" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Bloomingdales</a></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://thelingeriejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Ampere-FINAL-strapless-bra-sketch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://thelingeriejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Ampere-FINAL-strapless-bra-sketch.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">What about foundations, you ask? </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Bras are tough to choose for other Broads, but my personal fave for showing shoulde</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">r i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">s the </span><a href="https://www.victoriassecret.com/bras/strapless-and-multi-way/multi-way-bra-very-sexy?ProductID=249127&CatalogueType=OLS" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Multi-Way Bra from VS</a> <span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~</span><a href="http://thelingeriejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Ampere-FINAL-strapless-bra-sketch.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Photo Via</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Happy Shoulder-Free Shopping, my Broads!</span></div>
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~TCB</div>
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<br />Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-78949061152919097362015-06-07T23:05:00.003-07:002015-06-07T23:05:30.207-07:00the big ONE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjrEw1tLYAybtkVcneZ_HTADnUKeP-rDeXh1fwTsBLk-jAUky2cD8zzxSDU2r917kIuvyb00KSZHiILCEDckv3P9yQ3BymjU5f5nSV6wD3Jn8KxO2dAif5AMMGY_ImqswP2armgyuftIq/s1600/IMG_9479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjrEw1tLYAybtkVcneZ_HTADnUKeP-rDeXh1fwTsBLk-jAUky2cD8zzxSDU2r917kIuvyb00KSZHiILCEDckv3P9yQ3BymjU5f5nSV6wD3Jn8KxO2dAif5AMMGY_ImqswP2armgyuftIq/s1600/IMG_9479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjrEw1tLYAybtkVcneZ_HTADnUKeP-rDeXh1fwTsBLk-jAUky2cD8zzxSDU2r917kIuvyb00KSZHiILCEDckv3P9yQ3BymjU5f5nSV6wD3Jn8KxO2dAif5AMMGY_ImqswP2armgyuftIq/s640/IMG_9479.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It happened. Our first born had his first birthday. We celebrated. We cried (wait, that was just me - happy tears, I promise). We toasted our accomplishment of completing the first year of parents. And then collapsed. But don't worry, we got every thank you note signed, sealed and delivered.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">People will tell you the time flies. And they are right.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But it also, at least for me, really did feel like a full year. Not less. The saying "the days are long but the years fly by" is true. Those days were long. And I don't doubt the years will fly faster each year. Like this one, where I find myself 3 months late in even sharing this update.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But I'm not here to go on about feelings. I am here to talk about the big ONE. And by that, I mean the PARTY we threw to celebrate the apple of our eye living his first year of life while we learned and tried to figure it all out around him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So let's get started...</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The BIG Idea</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small; text-align: start;">Let me start with the fact that I was fully honest with myself about the theme: not only does my child not care, he won't remember a thing. I could have blown this party out with a number of themes and ideas but tried to think about what he and the other small humans would like. I knew for a fact he loves balloons. Like maybe more than he loves me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small; text-align: start;">Lucky for me, parties and balloons go together like peas and carrots. So decor was easy - lots and lots and lots of balloons. Like 2 SUV-sized car loads. And those were just the helium-inflated ones.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Invite</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You all know I love a good invite. This might be my favorite to date. I had seen ideas of using an actual balloon as an invite before and once I had landed on the idea, this seemed a natural choice.</span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cjjWB_2qBJXg2iMuUq6QQ8ZujXZZM0I_3MsZnYIZtdqeuaZePtBfuDkxQqGToj31N1Zny4WEUrnXH9j0aTCTdf7_sa9_8rtWXY3qzJjmgzdNK5jztKAv38stLgIKja5NBQ_Vv8qas-Tf/s1600/invite+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cjjWB_2qBJXg2iMuUq6QQ8ZujXZZM0I_3MsZnYIZtdqeuaZePtBfuDkxQqGToj31N1Zny4WEUrnXH9j0aTCTdf7_sa9_8rtWXY3qzJjmgzdNK5jztKAv38stLgIKja5NBQ_Vv8qas-Tf/s640/invite+blog.jpg" width="590" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Believe it or not, these invites were quite affordable. The main cost was printing on the balloons. Everything else was bought at - Paper Source (hide your shocked face) - or previously owned. I bought <a href="http://www.papersource.com/color/A6-flat-cards/203.html" target="_blank">A6 Note Cards in Mint</a>, <a href="http://www.papersource.com/color/A6-envelopes/104.html" target="_blank">A6 Envelopes in Poppy</a> and <a href="http://www.papersource.com/color/2-1-2-Round-Label-Sheets/841.html" target="_blank">2.5 Round Labels in Curry</a>. I downloaded Skinny Caps for free and printed the flat cards and labels at home. For the invite, I taped a strand of striped twine to the card with washi tape and then tied the balloon in a bow. A quick sketch of a balloon string completed the look for the envelope.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jPDaJ6KEsNY_xMbECibNe3vwGieF-R56-smFfvDhcMPidwBoW4YswcG3ClJFX7ehR-V0MhKsEeWdSZjUmBHXnRWeRjtOP3aQvrhKjxMU3DLnCKNgzdESP0_RKKKjeSC91levAEplHGxS/s1600/balloon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jPDaJ6KEsNY_xMbECibNe3vwGieF-R56-smFfvDhcMPidwBoW4YswcG3ClJFX7ehR-V0MhKsEeWdSZjUmBHXnRWeRjtOP3aQvrhKjxMU3DLnCKNgzdESP0_RKKKjeSC91levAEplHGxS/s400/balloon.jpg" width="325" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Here's what the balloon looked like once inflated. Balloons Printed by <a href="http://www.fastballoons.com/" target="_blank">Fast Balloons</a>. And it's not just a clever name. Both a proof and the final product arrived quicker than expected.<br /><br /><b>The Deets.</b><br />I think it's safe to say I like projects. And parties are my favorite projects. The extra touches and details were really fun. I had lots of ideas but managed to keep it simple - at least when it came to spending. I won't lie. Finding the balance between keeping it simple and wanting to blow out the first and ONLY first birthday party was not easy. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6aJsHpihqx1FTX8l8aacKMj_OveDngq4rl24x1jnA89Dv6XXZwlrAVnumudz4KFXWHTkaKE8NFh-Igrcd_5cwfDQcwbnIwDDx22y6X7uGh_kF2Eivmh8LTJJWg_KJr41sDg7qLYA4EaRB/s640/IMG_2182+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">The mantle was hung with a DIY sign I made using cardstock in the same colors as the invites and my trusty twine. Since I spared social media from the monthly milestone pics, I decided to place each one along the top to show that I did, in fact, do this.<br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgarIT-iNUPfROfIFOrFRA6-ueoedhBdoNi9ouTXuxYVi0P4fcxTpd_-lr9grIprXevTGz-p1oHrFnCsjBhkNpQD8pORBSzahobDx_IK1T0d1m7jy0kPDITyZR5LEHWIch0KemNCrrIFDGz/s640/IMG_2184+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Can't go wrong with balloons. Or so I thought, until I learned the cost of helium. While I still had about 40 balloons inflated and dispersed, I also relied on the lungs of myself and family members and hung some from the ceiling, windows, you name it. Another perk to this was that it could be done the night before. Win. Win. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7ovHv7_bpf3U1lVOKCsAOB34ImWgNeIL57pTuMS8S9shBCvvaCzs6S-6FKxGL_VhM2A4BuaOvNPO-xdAjLOQ-cj1lxKtn3TnzifG2WENud01IAkfyg0Ah0pnhCQGeUlOy9bHCT8mWacZ/s1600/IMG_2173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img border="0" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7ovHv7_bpf3U1lVOKCsAOB34ImWgNeIL57pTuMS8S9shBCvvaCzs6S-6FKxGL_VhM2A4BuaOvNPO-xdAjLOQ-cj1lxKtn3TnzifG2WENud01IAkfyg0Ah0pnhCQGeUlOy9bHCT8mWacZ/s640/IMG_2173.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBA7jzGg9ifkYLGYNdHq9p2s1Uzl2iVfxX7z5x29mHKU91bFhDqwQsHTG3ohBewyejBkF3vznccej9XGp_lPk39NJnpXozbhYk3YHJqYZmdUyTb8iklhBDiQ1ffPRG-fSr-Rt8r9lA0VAt/s640/IMG_2178+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I'm always a fan of using matte wrapping paper as a table runner. Here I used this <a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/Balloons-Wrapping-Paper/465246.html" target="_blank">balloons print</a>, cut it in half lengthwise ("hot dog") and ran it along the length of the table. Cupcake Toppers were from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Feelingthebeauty" target="_blank">Feeelingthebeauty</a> via Etsy.<br /><br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGaBHsCipB4iGkxRyPZ5c7YFIQ0Hxd7r63rZhll5TuoRD1A5mJUTe1T-3vIFXu9tcQD0LRhDEIOQE9XYORLFSwtR8016YPdIztP2IPNtslj_W3anGTSAbBJ_bMnMhDZpQuVR0ZoyE_ofx/s640/IMG_2179+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Water balloons served as the mini balloon cake toppers. just add them to wooden skewers. ta-da!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdjErfxiWKnU0-aC3Ff_eoes4F-Mc2oRyVTnN5-GjJp3VZiyliVt3IFF5JKWieklpSuP0FURqYevNyJdFgRJ14Gdjbp_aO5f3xapWEMjEHAr6k3tcNCu1OOwxDN0-UXdkvQWrpHHEpt2A/s1600/FullSizeRender+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdjErfxiWKnU0-aC3Ff_eoes4F-Mc2oRyVTnN5-GjJp3VZiyliVt3IFF5JKWieklpSuP0FURqYevNyJdFgRJ14Gdjbp_aO5f3xapWEMjEHAr6k3tcNCu1OOwxDN0-UXdkvQWrpHHEpt2A/s640/FullSizeRender+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMa5w5bEsIUSrIwr24Dm0S-knfif46nIdJIGabCSnZFn3IUPRPb_DcbFcHP2QS8d_RZEt5Hr7j2WPgMEJuAlrT7QwTLP5qyTqyw4z4M_Xeqy_BcvLBTiZ68MTH_1e8O1VTvYwagBWsgR4j/s1600/IMG_2171+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMa5w5bEsIUSrIwr24Dm0S-knfif46nIdJIGabCSnZFn3IUPRPb_DcbFcHP2QS8d_RZEt5Hr7j2WPgMEJuAlrT7QwTLP5qyTqyw4z4M_Xeqy_BcvLBTiZ68MTH_1e8O1VTvYwagBWsgR4j/s640/IMG_2171+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitfRg3CT5D2eK2cVButAWN82p-Xq4fIKm5CkMNiqJWMofvrrrHYCRUa4u2MQJKejrSj_X4q53ved2hRMFUYlIJvRpSI40N7UeVW9IB2qLM3FqKugM-mEs3hZwhGChuDJ8kyzNZf4dmfnvj/s640/IMG_9475.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Did you know 1 hour photo printing still existed? It does. And that fact made this late-night-on-the-eve-of-the-party-idea a reality. I bought poster boards, traced the letters, placed photos as they looked good along the outline. After being sure they were as I liked them, I taped down each photo and cut along the letters. Big props to my better half for figuring out how to hang this from our fence!<br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-HD8av5FPyPC48K_tK8a0ZrgntXcataiNlgCxIMNV7_A1H0JUziz7m3rHvsDy-m2KeGm-WUdK5jiWA1WNFBhUQuQ6DSYlQLAgHTlSVbJakwpQNj5KLzrRAQF5q0Z7JRjDx3H8KXlHcUH/s640/IMG_2167+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I had been looking for a reason to get an Instax camera and this seemed like a great one. This served as our guest book station. People snapped instant pics and placed them in a journal with a note to the big ONE year old. To be sure guests do this, I highly recommend a sweet grandma encouraging it. No one disses Grandma. NO ONE!</span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0sVhEIOqNh0HM_t96loDeutN3eWRQ45UxyrKMPYiKVgmy9xjC0ODWYNBo4eVH5WUW7L3ZHwL0eNDQ4Kzvpm07cGuX30ponTmGvghveTl5vTOGVHrEWQlej2VyOqsESAvCvNbcauYt5gW/s1600/IMG_2169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0sVhEIOqNh0HM_t96loDeutN3eWRQ45UxyrKMPYiKVgmy9xjC0ODWYNBo4eVH5WUW7L3ZHwL0eNDQ4Kzvpm07cGuX30ponTmGvghveTl5vTOGVHrEWQlej2VyOqsESAvCvNbcauYt5gW/s640/IMG_2169.JPG" width="410" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There are tons of highchair signs for sale on Etsy, but I was up for this DIY. I made the sign just as I made the mantle sign and added in <a href="http://www.lunabazaar.com/tissue-paper-tassels.aspx" target="_blank">tissue paper garlands</a> in between. I also owe Luna Bazaar for the paper lanterns hung throughout. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh54KaxYEuSxwcjrTazA4ftQFrIn1vlnLUZWsfEKJ83nQCTKLBWawp3h_sQH9d743v04HCFxFuPO7cULt6z4Y8Yz7Ts7GiWj-8kY8MDSNwM34lvQdLsDjGLVvlnVHfODLHbbFSxLkkSpzaB/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-07+at+3.11.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh54KaxYEuSxwcjrTazA4ftQFrIn1vlnLUZWsfEKJ83nQCTKLBWawp3h_sQH9d743v04HCFxFuPO7cULt6z4Y8Yz7Ts7GiWj-8kY8MDSNwM34lvQdLsDjGLVvlnVHfODLHbbFSxLkkSpzaB/s320/Screen+Shot+2015-06-07+at+3.11.02+PM.png" width="397" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Finding <a href="http://www.shopbracket.com/" target="_blank">ShopBracket </a>when I did could be called nothing but fate. I just couldn't resist their personalized stirrers and topper.<br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpZ7jpZc060ziuD5_RDJg1AYvsJAfEEXmVp0clnEQHJh-ggIuh9_zEa_YF2fHZ0ao2C2CWqBysz9wAx_DMf3YCjeq7gdUyREOs8eCvWSZLQEWjyPna-cGglRmmyWJXPYKo2Fb_vV_aQmSI/s640/IMG_2166.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Because I couldn't bring myself to buy 60+ of the cutest drink stirrers known to man, I printed off "The Big One" and "Happy Birthday Frank" on 1.25 circle labels and affixed one on each side of a coffee stir stick. I printed the same message on 2.5 circles and added those to plastic cups. Personalized <a href="http://www.amazon.com/100-Personalized-Beverage-Cocktail-Party/dp/B00SKENCTO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1433743107&sr=8-2&keywords=personalized+paper+napkins" target="_blank">napkins</a> were added as well. Hint: Stick to more "Happy Birthday "Messages than calling out the year so that you can re-use most items later.<br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkEsinzPr4PvyKKRLS8RKs2B61LJxfnijzn7Bb1xYp5_8MF83e0EPw-2pelLrtIy397I5E25-gKaK1RXBhkJhIV7FTU8vz3Jyz3EKJbLzNOvbSqQGZdhfWoZPzulYGeGOKub5lIr8jqeV/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-07+at+3.07.29+PM.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">You may have noticed the basket o' bubbles at the drink table, too. I decided to provide something that kiddos love for during the party and also have it serve double duty as the favor. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rhode-Island-Novelty-Bottles-Assortment/dp/B00G8OFVFQ/ref=sr_1_8?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1433741662&sr=1-8&keywords=bubbles" target="_blank">Bubbles</a> were bought, the original label was removed and this cute <a href="http://www.papersource.com/personalized/GT420-20140244225311/detail.html" target="_blank">label</a> was put in its place. Why on the drink table, you ask? Because they were next to the champagne with a sign that read "Pop some bubbles", duh.<br /><br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLkxtwiS7m7aBeqW-1gO0xB1KTBNQf99_ZkUhONTIPwG6MhEI0ZiLUQ4_jAmzKEMPSPsH0w-JPhwqA36MSkj1G8ILGdE3PPiI-VUvnknd7QGDUhsBj1ixRNp446jZhD1Fd9mp1iz7q63F/s640/IMG_2157+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Speaking of kiddos, did you know that a kiddie pool filled with some ball pit balls is the best babysitter one could ask for? It's true. An experienced mom gave me this idea and it's genius. Both the pool and balls were purchased on Amazon. Adorable toddlers not for sale.<br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkKOqpokGEGRhrnbAWvfMJRPOAM1WZrQi8yWMFYghpgBk9T97zGU9qsv6OnUacEm-PAMdVrdcFtlLPwjwfzZKATcQL4yxw80wfJWPP_QUjxVEjnZNx7do3tyo2nuzXy53t8IQbvOiNyqn/s400/IMG_2191.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small; text-align: justify;">The man of the hour, soaking it all in. Gingham "1"sie from </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/BrimmerBaby" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Brimmer Baby</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small; text-align: justify;">. </span></td></tr>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqUwj3ZSbnAUxQ1qlwO8BY9TDGxs9UoGJVbhyphenhyphenRCjIZHDjgXdop6CDgducfVdUz16Ndvk-2NmMARzFuMHDUUuT4Q88KS18cwTb8ap1Tih2xwqF8vbMGBNcggze0Ze0SSt0a_hvHkpBMM-i/s1600/IMG_9480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqUwj3ZSbnAUxQ1qlwO8BY9TDGxs9UoGJVbhyphenhyphenRCjIZHDjgXdop6CDgducfVdUz16Ndvk-2NmMARzFuMHDUUuT4Q88KS18cwTb8ap1Tih2xwqF8vbMGBNcggze0Ze0SSt0a_hvHkpBMM-i/s640/IMG_9480.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">And that, my broads, is how we celebrated The Big ONE. Cheers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">~TCB</span></div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-46070292386554041112015-05-07T12:58:00.001-07:002015-05-07T21:16:06.488-07:00That Gingham Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i.s-jcrewfactory.com/is/image/jcrew/B9491_WN8181?$pdp_enlarge$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://i.s-jcrewfactory.com/is/image/jcrew/B9491_WN8181?$pdp_enlarge$" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exhibit A: TCB's old trusty, gingham shirt. <a href="https://factory.jcrew.com/womens-clothing/shirts_tops/washed_shirts/PRD~B9491/B9491.jsp?N=17&Nbrd=F&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=gingham&isSaleItem=false&color_name=NAVY%20CHECK&isFromSearch=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row0" target="_blank">J.Crew Factory</a></td></tr>
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If you follow me on <a href="https://instagram.com/allilucia/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, you already know that a couple of weeks back, I showed up to work wearing nearly the exact same outfit as one of my male colleagues. It was a classic, blue and white gingham button up shirt (see above). While this might at first seem like it would be utterly embarrassing, it was quite the opposite. It doesn't hurt that he's one of the best dressed men in our office. But, more importantly, it made me realize just how strong a pattern gingham really is. I mean, this is by no means earth shattering news. In fact, there is already an Instagram <a href="https://instagram.com/thatjcrewginghamshirt/" target="_blank">account</a> devoted to aforementioned shirt.<br>
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But let's take a walk down Gingham road anyway, shall we?<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ell.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/02/980x490/54ac002321c86_-_elle-00-spring-2015-trends-gingham-opener-xln-elh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://ell.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/02/980x490/54ac002321c86_-_elle-00-spring-2015-trends-gingham-opener-xln-elh.jpg" height="320" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gingham all over the Spring 2015 Runways <a href="http://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/news/g8669/nyfw-spring-2015-trends-gingham/" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Gingham is classy, it's preppy, it's crisp. But as you could see on this year's runways, it can also be bold. An enlarged check or bright color adds more pop. And styles such as crop tops, two pieces, mixing and matching various check sizes or </span><span style="font-size: small;">patterns make one realize just how versatile this little pattern is.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">But I have to admit what I am loving most about Gingham's resurgence is seeing it pop up in home decor. </span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiST7Qea4SoQVXwcGVyK_DFi1WdcikxwMOu35VrHM0e572Sztv5EQkZVJOjHfcsB76ejtVTQEX6zYfzaGfqriFq5iCqDtMZIHTWgl_f5lmkQ8yUuxbT_28kzOHrCS_l5TG88iILx6FztYkp/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-05-07+at+10.42.03+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiST7Qea4SoQVXwcGVyK_DFi1WdcikxwMOu35VrHM0e572Sztv5EQkZVJOjHfcsB76ejtVTQEX6zYfzaGfqriFq5iCqDtMZIHTWgl_f5lmkQ8yUuxbT_28kzOHrCS_l5TG88iILx6FztYkp/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-05-07+at+10.42.03+AM.png"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Gingham Sheet Set, <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/gingham-sheet-set/m10042.html" target="_blank">Serena and Lily</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0396/8793/products/Brittany_Lauren_Photography_-_Caitlin_Wilson_Fall_Shoot-14_5708e1f2-9750-4cf4-a401-6fbbe993b434_grande.jpg?v=1416009042" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0396/8793/products/Brittany_Lauren_Photography_-_Caitlin_Wilson_Fall_Shoot-14_5708e1f2-9750-4cf4-a401-6fbbe993b434_grande.jpg?v=1416009042"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">As if I needed to add another item to the <a href="http://caitlinwilsontextiles.com/" target="_blank">Caitlin Wilson Textiles</a> wish list.<br>
Above, her <a href="http://caitlinwilsontextiles.com/products/burnside-buffalo-check-pillow?variant=962690944" target="_blank">Lilac Burnside Buffalo Check Pillow</a>. For those of you, like me, who are terrible at choosing which color you like best, it's also available in <a href="http://caitlinwilsontextiles.com/products/navy-burnside-buffalo-check?variant=1219589560" target="_blank">Navy</a> and <a href="http://caitlinwilsontextiles.com/products/black-burnside-buffalo-check?variant=1219592880" target="_blank">Black</a>.<br>
Image {<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0396/8793/products/Brittany_Lauren_Photography_-_Caitlin_Wilson_Fall_Shoot-14_5708e1f2-9750-4cf4-a401-6fbbe993b434_grande.jpg?v=1416009042" target="_blank">Via</a>}</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://okl.scene7.com/is/image/OKL/one_kings_lane_cocorocha_leadphoto2?wid=1000&op_sharpen=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://okl.scene7.com/is/image/OKL/one_kings_lane_cocorocha_leadphoto2?wid=1000&op_sharpen=1" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Can you even handle this gingham daybed from Coco Rocha's nursery makeover, c/o <a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/live-love-home/coco-rocha-nursery-makeover/" target="_blank">One Kings Lane</a>??<br>
This is the epitome of styling a child's room with pieces that can be used over and over again, in any room of the house. While it appears to still be available on <a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/product/52873/3528141/1940516" target="_blank">OKL</a>, this idea has DIY potential all over it.Time to start looking for that perfect second-hand piece to reupholster...</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://098d1f88229f857faf3a-39e302270bfe3570e1446af6312a0494.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/fdf9d98c28df7e71c6690b36c7865933.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://098d1f88229f857faf3a-39e302270bfe3570e1446af6312a0494.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/fdf9d98c28df7e71c6690b36c7865933.jpeg" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Pooches deserve decor updates, too. I love this dog bowl sold by <a href="http://domino.com/en-soie-llc-dog-bowl-gingham-navy/1448" target="_blank">Domino</a>.</td></tr>
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Albeit a springy, fresh look do not count gingham out as a year long staple. Checks in colors such as navy, orange, green and red make for especially seasonal looks. And I don't need to tell you what a chameleon black and white is. Pair it with a pop of yellow in the summer or red in the winter and you've got yourself an evergreen outfit, decor item or accent. </div>
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Check. Check. Check.</div>
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~TCB</div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-20945498651448000622015-01-09T17:39:00.002-08:002015-01-15T15:46:09.292-08:00The Great Wall of ChinaI like plates. Like, a lot. Like more than the average broad. In fact, one of the only registry disputes I had with Mr. Broad was whether or not we really needed two sets of "everyday plates" (and we registered for formal China, so that's 3 sets for those of you keeping score). Of course the real answer is no, but I fought yes and won. I stand by my decision to this day.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b8/dc/0a/b8dc0a6b83d18aa5ad0f663f97afd2cf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b8/dc/0a/b8dc0a6b83d18aa5ad0f663f97afd2cf.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://burnettsboards.com/2012/04/blue-and-white-china/" target="_blank">{Via}</a></td></tr>
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Plates don't get enough love. They get stuffed in a cabinet when not in use and then when they finally get their moment to shine, they get covered up with food. Poor plates. It's time to steal an idea from grandma's playbook and show those things off.<br />
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You can go all white, or colored. Traditional, or modern. Antiques from a favorite shop, souvenirs from travels, family heirlooms, or fresh off the store shelves. The best part is that you can choose any type of plate as well as any design style that fits your space. I especially love this idea for small spaces, such as my personal bungalow in which my dining room is really just a designated area in my long living room. By putting plates up on the wall above our dining table, it gives that area of the room distinction. It's where we eat. Because there are plates on the wall. I don't know how anyone would figure it out otherwise. <br />
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So, it's time to feast your eyes on some fun ideas for decorating with plates.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://littlehouseonthevalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/bhg-white-plate-cottage-style-wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://littlehouseonthevalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/bhg-white-plate-cottage-style-wall.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.deniseinbloom.com/decorate-with-plates/" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />
There is just something about all white. This looks clean instead of cluttered and gives the space dimension. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_BXHA8YXoj_Ta4cFuWbNXyrqAxQYMYtbwER62Rggaalw8SbIdWdEEkib57gz-IeimFnbZ7qfQ1H8xnjW8AHd5YA7SNxZwUwtZxB7Dif-S_0Hc6zLgrIo7gh50H22ibo5lb751oAWRTo/s640/DinFS%235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_BXHA8YXoj_Ta4cFuWbNXyrqAxQYMYtbwER62Rggaalw8SbIdWdEEkib57gz-IeimFnbZ7qfQ1H8xnjW8AHd5YA7SNxZwUwtZxB7Dif-S_0Hc6zLgrIo7gh50H22ibo5lb751oAWRTo/s640/DinFS%235.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thefancyshack.blogspot.com/2013/05/dining-room-reveal.html" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />
One could also try mixing white with some color. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrXZNuCxeOTtdbDHY5bV4uFTjYMzzaBCEfCXW8FGCBjyinrvBsAxTpyNjrGAeu4dQZsozlieRTiV47VLVrA3nsHsks4VBMAE3AJ5GO_wTgvcJX_E5AhAPfm6vQUQCMqfratMhdc-eCRL8/s1600/IMG_1265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrXZNuCxeOTtdbDHY5bV4uFTjYMzzaBCEfCXW8FGCBjyinrvBsAxTpyNjrGAeu4dQZsozlieRTiV47VLVrA3nsHsks4VBMAE3AJ5GO_wTgvcJX_E5AhAPfm6vQUQCMqfratMhdc-eCRL8/s1600/IMG_1265.JPG" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/2013/05/a-little-french-country.html" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />
Don't be afraid to create an asymmetrical design. <br />
This scattered design makes the traditional blue china look like it's ready to party. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eclecticallyvintage.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/hutch-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://eclecticallyvintage.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/hutch-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eclecticallyvintage.com/2013/11/eclectic-house-tour-rooms-for-rent-blog/" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />
Flank a Mirror or other large piece with plates on each side. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ds5O9b544lc/TX8BwflwTKI/AAAAAAAAGYk/8k9xKXLmu4A/s1600/fav6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ds5O9b544lc/TX8BwflwTKI/AAAAAAAAGYk/8k9xKXLmu4A/s1600/fav6.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fabulousbydesignblog.com/2011/03/eclectic-plate-wall.html" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />
Mix and match old and new as well as shapes.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/81/0c/05/810c055e79461de2c0eaab117ffc6fbe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/81/0c/05/810c055e79461de2c0eaab117ffc6fbe.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fieldstonehilldesign.com/2013/11/images-of-what-to-hang-on-the-wall.html" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />
Platters work well, too. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a.dilcdn.com/bl/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2013/10/canvas3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://a.dilcdn.com/bl/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2013/10/canvas3.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.babble.com/home/lets-dish-plates-on-the-wall-as-wallpaper/" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />
Feeling crazy? Go for some dish print <a href="http://www.wallpaperdirect.com/us/products/andrew-martin/cargo/102798" target="_blank">wallpaper</a>. </td></tr>
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Have I got your wheels spinning now, too? You're welcome.<br />
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Until next time, my lovelies.<br />
<br />
~TCB<br />
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<br />Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-43787345571886981962015-01-06T16:28:00.003-08:002015-01-07T16:05:13.606-08:00Tuesday Museday: TCB's Personal FaveWhile I usually try to choose muses who I think appeal to everyone, this Tuesday's Muse is someone who has personally inspired me over the years. And she doesn't even know it. Or know me. Creepy? Maybe. But I am oh so grateful that she exists and even more excited that she has decided to start her own business.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/living/2015/01/05/abby-capalbo-seaside-home-tour/" target="_blank">{via} </a><br />
TCB's personal muse, <a href="http://www.abbycapalbo.com/" target="_blank">Abby Capalbo </a>who just launched her own Styling Business.</td></tr>
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Way back when, this broad was planning herself a little seaside wedding in Tiburon. It was before Pinterest existed but I found this <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/2010/10/26/abbys-rhode-island-wedding-by-leila-brewster-photography-true-events/" target="_blank">wedding</a> on SMP and just drooled. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/2010/10/26/abbys-rhode-island-wedding-by-leila-brewster-photography-true-events/" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />
This image alone was a huge inspiration for my own nuptials. </td></tr>
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So much of this beautiful Rhode Island wedding spoke to me. I ended up using nearly every photo from this feature as inspiration for my own <a href="http://blog.joielala.com/2011/07/18/doug-alli-tiburon-wedding/" target="_blank">wedding</a>. </div>
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I even indulged in using the same invitation company, <a href="http://www.papermoss.com/" target="_blank">Paper Moss</a>, who to this day created my dream invites (you know I am a paper girl).<br />
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I just loved everything about her big day - this woman I didn't know but was convinced was my kindred spirit when it came to vision. The color scheme, the adirondack chairs, the aqua stripes. Yes. Yes. Yes. So fast forward to today when I was walking to lunch, perusing my instagram feed and I see this photo...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/living/2015/01/05/abby-capalbo-seaside-home-tour/" target="_blank">{Via}</a></td></tr>
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Gasp! It’s a shot from Abby’s home tour on <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/living/2015/01/05/abby-capalbo-seaside-home-tour/" target="_blank">SMP Living</a>. Are those my same pillows? Coffee table? General color scheme? Yes. Yes. Yes. The similarities in her style and my taste are uncanny. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/living/2015/01/05/abby-capalbo-seaside-home-tour/" target="_blank">{Via}</a></td></tr>
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We even seem to share the same love for striped <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2012/01/classy-broads-entertaining-arsenal.html" target="_blank">twine</a>. So, check out some of my favorite photos from this tour, if you too are into preppy, coastal, classic-with-a-twist décor as much as I. All photos are courtesy of <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/living/2015/01/05/abby-capalbo-seaside-home-tour/" target="_blank">SMP Living</a> and <a href="http://www.leilabrewsterphotography.com/" target="_blank">Leila Brewster Photography</a>.</div>
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Perhaps one day this Abby and myself will cross paths and share a glass of wine whilst chatting about our love for navy blue, golden retrievers and initials. I can't wait to follow along as her business grows. And I use the term follow very loosely. After all, this isn't called The Stalking Broad's blog, right? </div>
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Until then, my broads, Happy Museday!!</div>
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~TCB</div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-56021627004449048262014-12-30T16:45:00.001-08:002014-12-30T16:45:03.768-08:00Last Thing: Green(ery)<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I am going to close out 2015 with one last favorite thing and it's something I've seen popping up in home decor pins, catalogs, books, and beyond for a while...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Greenery.</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bright, leafy greens bring so much life and vibrance into any space. They are beyond easy to obtain and affordable. You can take a nice walk and gather some on your own (abiding laws of course!) or hit up your local floral shop; and they range in price from free to very inexpensive. But best of all, they are seasonal and will work in any and all decor styles.</span></div>
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Come along and see some of this broad's favorite examples...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3a/8b/3e/3a8b3e06658f4884dc37896309005410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3a/8b/3e/3a8b3e06658f4884dc37896309005410.jpg" height="400" width="291" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3a/8b/3e/3a8b3e06658f4884dc37896309005410.jpg" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />As I always say, it starts with an idea or inspiring image. This classic <a href="http://designerwallcoverings.com/WallpaperStore/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1" target="_blank">Martinique wallpaper</a>, iconic due to its placement in the Beverly Hills Hotel, is one for the ages. While it seems at first to be more summery than seasonal, the longer I look at it, the more versatile it becomes. Bold designers will make a statement with this in a powder room or small office. Those more design-risk averse (read: MOI) may choose to just frame this print or simply use it as inspiration and choose a safer choice, such as real greens that can be removed when one decides it's time to change a look. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Speaking of the safer options, take a look at these inspiring images of fresh greens in the home...</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://40.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m7bd58p9mi1rsmrsao1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://40.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m7bd58p9mi1rsmrsao1_500.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://40.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m7bd58p9mi1rsmrsao1_500.jpg" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />Simple. Clean. Statement: Palm leaves in a tall, cylindrical vase will work in any home from traditional to uber modern. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/eb/46/48/eb4648594bb0bacd1c46d3f43fc376c1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/eb/46/48/eb4648594bb0bacd1c46d3f43fc376c1.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/eb/46/48/eb4648594bb0bacd1c46d3f43fc376c1.jpg" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />With a large vase and leaves as the focal point, one doesn't need much else to style the coffee table. Less is more (and oh so lovely). </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://domino.com/fresh-festive-flowers/source_type/share/source_id/296335" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />As a centerpiece, simple greens complemented with simple white flowers or baby's breath are timeless and go with any home style or party theme. You'll be seeing a lot more baby's breath in 2015. Mark my words. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_FzpCvQGrag/UqGXgCGHdKI/AAAAAAAAZVo/wYbW7sFXrNg/31_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_FzpCvQGrag/UqGXgCGHdKI/AAAAAAAAZVo/wYbW7sFXrNg/31_thumb%255B3%255D.jpg?imgmax=800" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_FzpCvQGrag/UqGXgCGHdKI/AAAAAAAAZVo/wYbW7sFXrNg/31_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />At first glance, this looks very holiday-centric but I think with the right execution this could work all year long.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBk8OyhMollOllA-jNWdcQOag9OUc6zUi6TBqdBTddQ94AYpmp8oMWpYWL5WWOePeKcZGIG73oIvJ3c_oapuPl69X2ceaz7xrTMh_oCHgviIQkO1jvAk9FdKN4m8WZnh6_5xG2UuCSkF48/s640/IMG_5361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBk8OyhMollOllA-jNWdcQOag9OUc6zUi6TBqdBTddQ94AYpmp8oMWpYWL5WWOePeKcZGIG73oIvJ3c_oapuPl69X2ceaz7xrTMh_oCHgviIQkO1jvAk9FdKN4m8WZnh6_5xG2UuCSkF48/s640/IMG_5361.JPG" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBk8OyhMollOllA-jNWdcQOag9OUc6zUi6TBqdBTddQ94AYpmp8oMWpYWL5WWOePeKcZGIG73oIvJ3c_oapuPl69X2ceaz7xrTMh_oCHgviIQkO1jvAk9FdKN4m8WZnh6_5xG2UuCSkF48/s640/IMG_5361.JPG" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />This look works for the holidays, but remove the ornaments and you have a look that works well through the entire winter season.<br /></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1c/dd/6a/1cdd6a2f2ed6a8a67215cb58a3400ad0.jpg" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />More greens in simple vases of varying sizes. Can it get any easier??</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0528/1413/products/Fiddle-Leaf-Fig_1024x1024.jpg?v=1407967457" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0528/1413/products/Fiddle-Leaf-Fig_1024x1024.jpg?v=1407967457" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://ourheiday.com/products/fiddle-leaf-fig-tree-print" target="_blank">{Via}</a><br />Looking for a more permanent choice? I love this fiddle leaf fig plant art. And it will no doubt last longer than my poor plant that is currently on its last leg... errrr leaf. Poor Freya.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
So, as you clean up your holiday decor this week or next, think of ways to freshen up your space with some pretty bright greens. Your home will thank you.</div>
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Cheers to 2015, my broads!</div>
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~TCB</div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-21361029481661183892014-12-15T21:51:00.001-08:002014-12-15T22:00:01.766-08:00Another Thing: Bling<div style="position: relative;">
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What the Season Blings...</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My third favorite thing is... shiny, shimmery, metallic, glittery, bling. The holiday season kicks off the small window we have to really go all out in our home and ourselves in this category. While I am a fan of sparkle all year long, any broad should embrace this time of year by rocking some sequins or shimmer. Opportunities abound, be it the countless holiday parties, New Year's Eve celebrations, winter weddings and even into awards season. Don't be shy. You may just decide those sequin pants or disco ball ornaments needn't ever be put away.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="What the Season Blings" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/gLODSxnaNggI5AeuJlFtkQ/cid/143324224/id/rIf2BOOE5BGA_-7xXS33Qg/size/c600x501.jpg" height="534" title="What the Season Blings" width="640" /></span></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=122152144" rel="nofollow">H M black sleeveless cocktail dress</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=122337711" rel="nofollow">H M top</a>/ <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=121942590" rel="nofollow">STYLESTALKER slimming slip</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=121581179" rel="nofollow">West Elm striped bedding</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=119484038" rel="nofollow">West Elm silver sequin throw pillow</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=126288699" rel="nofollow">Holiday decoration</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=126292997" rel="nofollow">Holiday decoration</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=126313720" rel="nofollow">Casablanca Market Moroccan Embroidered Pouf Ottoman | Wayfair</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=125175316" rel="nofollow">Sequined Ribbon</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=122230636" rel="nofollow">H&M Sequined cushion cover</a></span></small></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pass on the bling!</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Don't keep all the pretty to yourself. It is, after all, better to give than to receive. If you consider gift wrapping a sport like I do, consider brown paper packages tied up in bling. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Step by Step Bow using Glitter Ribbon<br />{<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/originals/00/c7/b7/00c7b7738c6ea8efa39586d83ee5fc5d.jpg" target="_blank">Via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/9086/10h/origin-d5.scene7.com/is/image/PaperSource/422856?$zoom$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/9086/10h/origin-d5.scene7.com/is/image/PaperSource/422856?$zoom$" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Paper Source strikes again. Three words:<a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/Silver-Tinsel-Ribbon/422856.html" target="_blank"> Silver Tinsel Ribbon.</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: start;">Nab some sequin ribbons at craft or fabric stores and dress up those packages! </span><span style="text-align: start;">You can bet that's a ribbon that will get re-used by the lucky gifted one.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/get-inspired/tips/2014/11/25/wrapped-style" target="_blank">Via</a>}</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sparkle on, my broads!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">~TCB</span></div>
Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-13895176316737028602014-12-10T20:49:00.001-08:002014-12-10T23:40:20.053-08:00More favorite things...<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Thing 2: Socks</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I've never understood why when someone has described a disappointing gift, they generally use socks as the example. I am here to say once and for all that socks are possibly some of the best gifts to receive and also give. Socks are sweaters for your feet. And who doesn't love sweaters!? Do me a favor. Next time you have a long day, come home and slip on some warm fuzzy socks. I dare you to not feel better. Socks are good for the soul. It's a fact.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Do Not</i> overlook this accessory. They can be enjoyed so many ways. Casual socks around the house, socks under boots (tall or short), knee or thigh highs with a saucy skirt, leg warmers to embrace your inner ballerina. Indulge in luxurious cashmere socks or nab a pair of affordable, trendy socks. For the super over achievers, knit a pair of homemade socks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Socks. Socks. Socks. Rock those Socks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/sock_it_to_me/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=142904530" target="_blank"><img alt="Sock it to me..." border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/r8d3pVthlFNhhaUNhNNow/cid/142904530/id/ih9W9OqA5BG6dBkT7EzHKw/size/c600x551.jpg" height="293" title="Sock it to me..." width="320" /></a></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=124723508" rel="nofollow">Solow ribbed leg warmer</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=123837210" rel="nofollow">J.Crew moisture wicking socks</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=123219100" rel="nofollow">Grey socks</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=120321976" rel="nofollow">Lands' End seamless socks</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=124783345" rel="nofollow">Kensie socks</a>, $13 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=125984103" rel="nofollow">WOMEN HEATTECH KNITTED LEG WARMERS (FAIR ISLE)</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=125982771" rel="nofollow">Hue Pointelle Ribbed Over the Knee Socks</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=125834043" rel="nofollow">UNIQLO HEATTECH Knitted Leg Warmers (Snow)</a>, $12 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=125983036" rel="nofollow">Women's Knee High Cozy Socks Xhilaration</a></span></small></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYAfWsgLgjunj4oioGR7a1AiaoeEjT6vKGgc1X-DHlQkMranTGVhLXzrjdu93wmV5WrXCgAajUGNzBmxxqrVWztL4jYa8d-fB8Fqk64Aos6l0_rT6ma9htlfUS-kJLFIbjjX__8H_D8f1/s1600/NM+12+071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYAfWsgLgjunj4oioGR7a1AiaoeEjT6vKGgc1X-DHlQkMranTGVhLXzrjdu93wmV5WrXCgAajUGNzBmxxqrVWztL4jYa8d-fB8Fqk64Aos6l0_rT6ma9htlfUS-kJLFIbjjX__8H_D8f1/s1600/NM+12+071.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Thigh high socks with a skirt add a combo of sexy and sweet all at once. Heels make the look mature instead of too schoolgirl. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com/2013/11/black-blue.html" target="_blank">via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.un-fancy.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/how-to-wear-ankle-booties-with-socks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://www.un-fancy.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/how-to-wear-ankle-booties-with-socks.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Adding a pair of textured socks with booties and cuffed jeans gives a look more dimension and texture. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.un-fancy.com/fall-outfits/how-to-wear-ankle-boots-with-socks/#_a5y_p=2782034" target="_blank">via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkV4NhfjF9V0Yd-0ikXvbsVwaQ8lM3pVMx8VmIkr0ezoCRhfr11DB4ppdqiHKdHwQXKjX035V76GcVNA5M5yZHnQ17E5ZrrFEcVkaK7O1Se9oTADcRzrKUdyr8quE3b39CpWPwRDmfrNh/s1600/stockings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkV4NhfjF9V0Yd-0ikXvbsVwaQ8lM3pVMx8VmIkr0ezoCRhfr11DB4ppdqiHKdHwQXKjX035V76GcVNA5M5yZHnQ17E5ZrrFEcVkaK7O1Se9oTADcRzrKUdyr8quE3b39CpWPwRDmfrNh/s1600/stockings.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">TCB's personal collection of embroidered stockings from <a href="http://www.landsend.com/products/needlepoint-christmas-stocking/id_259386?sku_0=::XNP" target="_blank">Lands' End</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/SerenaandLily/stckng_jrsy_knit_strp-011-main-krop?wid=600&hei=600&fmt=jpeg&qlt=100&resMode=sharp2&op_usm=1.0,1.0,0,0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/SerenaandLily/stckng_jrsy_knit_strp-011-main-krop?wid=600&hei=600&fmt=jpeg&qlt=100&resMode=sharp2&op_usm=1.0,1.0,0,0" height="320" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Love these striped stockings and pom poms from <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Decor/The-Holiday-Home-Jersey-Knit-Stripe-Stocking-Holly-Navy?utm_source=pj&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_content=banner&utm_campaign=classicwhitescat12" target="_blank">Serena & Lily</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">And, don't forget to dress up your abode with a sock or two. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">After all, those socks as gifts need to go somewhere... Socks in socks!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Time to go stock up on socks...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">~TCB</span><br />
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-29898571434118852522014-12-04T13:00:00.002-08:002014-12-04T16:51:53.173-08:00A few of my favorite (little) things...<b>Thing 1: The Boxwood Wreath</b><br>
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Well, my broads, it's here. The season. Let the hall decking commence! I myself have been delayed this time around. Three out-of-town weekends in a row will do that to you...<br>
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I've decided that instead of sharing one long post about ways I've let the holiday spirit into my life this time around, I'll share several short posts about the little things that really make my heart smile this time of year. For today's installment, I bring you the <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?rs=ac&len=2&q=boxwood+wreath&term_meta%5B%5D=boxwood%7Cautocomplete%7C0&term_meta%5B%5D=wreath%7Cautocomplete%7C0" target="_blank">Boxwood Wreath</a>.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMskfosra1xVMl7uZ2WFch1ESbxttl_aG7TBHXiZNtW7TM0_N9MAAl5ZaNXDaFqy_DV70X4OvrcPZ-u8Bmc3FVyg-tjPPV6FROU3XXLuB7rIoMRrGqVhz4pUh82brRYrY5-CdGzKZaxnHZ/s1600/IMG_8633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMskfosra1xVMl7uZ2WFch1ESbxttl_aG7TBHXiZNtW7TM0_N9MAAl5ZaNXDaFqy_DV70X4OvrcPZ-u8Bmc3FVyg-tjPPV6FROU3XXLuB7rIoMRrGqVhz4pUh82brRYrY5-CdGzKZaxnHZ/s1600/IMG_8633.JPG"></a></div>
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The Boxwood wreath is kind of like the perfect man (or woman). It's simple, not flashy. It's classy. It's not overbearing and won't steal the spotlight. It's familiar. It's not too delicate. It probably will stay with you for as long as you'd like. You feel better when it's around and miss it when it's gone. And it looks just as good dressed up as it does naked. There is only one very important trait that it possesses which sets it apart from something we seek in our mates. But it's such a good one...<br>
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CHEAP.<br>
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I am talking $9.99 at Trader Joe's. Yes, for $10 and some tax, you too can welcome this adornment into your home for the winter. I'm indulgent and bought three because, ever since I moved into our bungalow I have dreamed of three wreaths hung in our big front window.<br>
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I had the pleasure of dressing those windows up a few nights ago. It took all but 20 minutes and afterwards I just sat and looked at them a while. 20 minutes and $10. You can thank me later.<br>
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Don't feel like hunting down a live version each year? Some <a href="http://www.target.com/p/smith-hawken-boxwood-wreath-21-25/-/A-14702386#prodSlot=medium_1_2&term=boxwood+wreath" target="_blank">faux</a> options are available as well. To each their own. </div>
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Until next time, my broads...</div>
Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-4509331325120413492014-10-09T20:11:00.003-07:002014-10-10T14:09:45.626-07:00Home SWEDE Home<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Confession: I love Ikea. I know. It kind of feels like a dirty secret. One that I think needs to be shared. In the few short months since the move, I can't tell you the amount of times I've turned to design blogs, pinterest, etc. only to find a lot of what I liked came from none other than Ikea. Initially, I turned my little nose up when I would realize a furniture piece or decor accessory hailed from the Big I. I'd see something I liked, but then think "I can't get things from <i>there. </i>I'm a classy broad not some starving college student looking for the cheapest excuse for furniture!". Well guess what? The Swedish big box store is one that is used by interior designers the world over. It's all about choosing when to go with a mass-produced item and when to splurge on that one-of-a-kind-exactly-what-you-were-looking-for-timless piece .While it's still very important to make smart purchases - not those that you'll discard in a year and contribute to landfills - it's time to embrace some of the great items this place has to offer. So, below are some of this broad's favorite things.</span><br />
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=56319309" rel="nofollow">White rug</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=56314699" rel="nofollow">Throw pillow</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=56355023" rel="nofollow">IKEA RÅSKOG Kitchen cart, turquoise</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=56317528" rel="nofollow">White chair</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=56306653" rel="nofollow">Glass shelf</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=56320145" rel="nofollow">White furniture</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=112726428" rel="nofollow">BILLY</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=57425673" rel="nofollow">IKEA Ficus Lyrata</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=107001932" rel="nofollow">VÅRGYLLEN</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=106749120" rel="nofollow">NÄVVIVA</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=95345876" rel="nofollow">RANARP</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=56413431" rel="nofollow">IKEA Rågkorn</a></span></small><br />
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The above collection pretty much sums up why I love Ikea so... but let me break it on down.</span><br />
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1. <b>Looking the Part.</b> There are pieces that look (even feel!) almost the exact same as their pricier counterparts. I'm looking at you <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S29932548/" target="_blank">Ektorp Chair</a> and <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40063632/" target="_blank">Docksta Table</a>. And you know from <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2014/03/the-nesting-broad_3.html" target="_blank">Frank's room </a>how much of a fan I am of the <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/series/16456/" target="_blank">Ribba</a> series when it comes to shelving and frames. We've all seen their dopplegangers that are often more than quadruple the price, but the naked eye (or bum) can't tell the difference. In fact, check reviews online and you'll be pleasantly surprised. They don't just look the part. They hold up. And when you've decided it's time to move on, pay it forward and sell it to another person battling over whether or not they should splurge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. <b>On Trend. </b>Black and white home decor seems to be showing up everywhere. I personally think I'll be adding some into my Holiday Decor this year. And don't even get me started on the popularity of fun <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50168285/" target="_blank">tribal-inspired rugs</a>. Want some mid-century looking pieces? Take a stroll through the showroom and you'll find tons of options. Ikea is a great place to procure trendy items you're not ready to commit an entire paycheck to. Items like pillows can always be recovered and rug trends always come back around. Oh, and those <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=fiddle%20leaf%20fig&term_meta%5B%5D=fiddle%7Ctyped&term_meta%5B%5D=leaf%7Ctyped&term_meta%5B%5D=fig%7Ctyped" target="_blank">fiddle leaf fig trees</a> that are sprouting up all over the decor world? Yep - grab one of those from the Swedes as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. <b>Function. </b>I've said before that I think I could find a reason for the <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30216536/" target="_blank">Raskog</a> cart for every room in my house. The fact that it is turquoise and adds a pop makes it all the more lovable. I now also own the <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20257688/" target="_blank">Ranarp</a> lamp that is adjustable in multiple ways to make life easy, but its mixing of metals and black and white cloth cord cover make it a subtle statement in any room that will blend with any style. If only it came in a floor lamp version as well. Wait for it... it <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90257680/" target="_blank">does</a>! I also love the white option. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. <b>DIY Ideas Abound. </b>Have you seen this <a href="http://simpledetailsblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/ikea-hacktable-makeover.html" target="_blank">transformation</a> of the <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80215332/" target="_blank">Vittsjo</a> nesting tables? Do me a favor. Search <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=vittsjo%20hack&rs=ac&len=5&term_meta%5B%5D=vittsjo%7Cautocomplete%7C1&term_meta%5B%5D=hack%7Cautocomplete%7C1" target="_blank">Vittsjo Hack</a> on Pinterest. Mind Blown. Oh, and if you're looking for a way to create built-in looking shelves, check out <a href="http://bliss-athome.com/2013/06/10/ikea-billy-library-wall-the-reveal/" target="_blank">this hack</a> or <a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2013/01/besta-billy-brass-bookcases/" target="_blank">this one </a>of the Billy Bookcases. These are just mere few ideas of hundreds. Hack away, my broads.</span><br />
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Have I changed anyone else's mind? Check it out for yourself. Happy Hunting, my broads!</span><br />
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~TCB</span><br />
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**A somewhat crunchy granola hippie broad note** </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To be very clear, finding antique, reclaimed or repurposed home items is always best to both master own unique look and to consider this wonderful earth. That being said, I am quite impressed by Ikea's sustainability report as well as their goal to create more energy than they use by the year 2020. Haven't heard of this? Check out this <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/peterdetwiler/2014/02/07/ikeas-aggressive-approach-to-sustainability-creates-enormous-business-opportunities/" target="_blank">article</a> to learn more. </span></div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-36212024210945736572014-08-13T14:56:00.001-07:002014-08-13T15:41:33.345-07:00Change...<h2>
<b> is<strike> Hard</strike> Good. </b></h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I left my heart...</span></td></tr>
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Well, this year has been one of big changes for this broad. For those who know me, they know I don't generally do well with change. Not only did we welcome a beautiful baby boy into our family, we also were blessed with the opportunity to buy our first home. This meant packing up and leaving the city I've called mine for almost a decade. Tony Bennett really was on to something...<br />
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San Francisco has given me so much.<br />
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It's where I met my husband (well, technically we met in San Jose but we were the only two crazy young people to work in San Jo and live in SF). It's where I made most of my adult friends whom I cherish to this day. It's where I threw <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/08/pink-or-blue.html" target="_blank">baby showers</a>, <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/03/aint-no-party-like-oscar-party.html" target="_blank">oscar parties</a> and any other excuse for a <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/10/harvest-brunching-broad.html" target="_blank">gathering</a>. It's where I celebrated countless engagements, <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/05/its-little-things.html">milestone birthdays</a>, weddings, <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2012/01/showering-baby-g.html">babies</a> and also where I mourned the losses of some dear friends and family. It's where I joined a book club, a wine club, and a cooking club (but really they were all wine clubs). It's where I first lived in my own big-girl apartment by myself. It's where I realized that guy I met from work was my lid and was lucky enough to find that he felt the same. It's where I celebrated not one, but two San Francisco Giants' World Series Championships. It's where my husband (then fiancé) and I moved into <a href="http://blog.joielala.com/2011/01/11/alli-doug-engaged-san-francisco/" target="_blank">our first home </a>together. It's where I discovered my love for wine country, despite not always remembering the entire trip or what I learned at each winery. It's where we planned a <a href="http://blog.joielala.com/2011/07/18/doug-alli-tiburon-wedding/" target="_blank">wedding</a> and where we came home to after our honeymoon. It's where we found our adorable <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgap97NpB65EkUVlYxFqPx0T7oVYO1M9hiyMNfveZvabcq7D8uSu7xO1T9kqj_QbAAv3TTUdM28lyLmIDWs9KJtPjDl19qdy00dy7EkLkLvd9HHzFoXc3e54xGYhV8Qu1PTFOiD-ALLewFl/s320/bernie.JPG" target="_blank">mutt</a> at the SPCA when we went in one day "just to look". It's where we lived as newlyweds. It's where I decided I should write a silly <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2012/01/classy-broads-entertaining-arsenal.html" target="_blank">blog</a> about all the things going on in my crazy brain.<br />
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And, above all else, it's where my baby boy was born and where we brought him <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2014/03/the-nesting-broad_3.html" target="_blank">home</a> for the first time.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lisa-Pattisson-Photography/592515910808699" target="_blank">Via</a>}</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Saying goodbye to Frank's first nest.</span></td></tr>
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But the best part about stories, is that there are chapters.<br />
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One of my favorite things my husband reminds me of all the time - whether things are good or bad - is that everything happening is all part of our story. When times are tough, it's just a not so great chapter. Things pass. Opportunities arise. Chances are given and changes are made. I have no doubt in my mind that this crazy world lines up opportunities for a reason. So, here we are settling into our first suburban home as a family and I am already surprised at how seamless the change has been. What seemed scary has in fact been the start of one of the good - maybe even great - chapters of the story. San Francisco is close, it's no longer home. And home is where I am with my family. Or as I like to call them, the Broad's Brood.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Broad (and Brood's) New Bungalow.</span></td></tr>
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So here's to the next chapter. I'm sure you'll be learning more about our new little bungalow in posts to come. Did I mention it has a breakfast nook?? I know.<br />
Until next time,<br />
~TCB<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">***</span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Gotta give credit where credit is due. HUGE</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Shout Out to </span><a href="http://www.joielala.com/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Joielala Photographie</a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> who, to this day, I am so happy to have found to capture some of life's biggest moments and where two links are from above. Also thanks to</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lisa-Pattisson-Photography/592515910808699" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank"> Lisa Pattisson Photography</a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> for nailing our newborn session. I had a feeling those city shots would be invaluable one day...</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2096px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2096px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-4426167252602522442014-03-03T21:08:00.002-08:002014-09-15T12:36:54.852-07:00Fruit Punch<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<strike style="text-align: justify;">Maybe it's the fact that we're still technically in winter but spring seems So...... Close..... </strike><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
Okay. Admittedly I wrote this line 24 days ago, about 5 hours before Baby B decided to start his (yes, HIS!!) entrance into the world. So, here is my updated post over 3 weeks later about my love for all the fruit-inspired spring fashion. </div>
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There is nothing like getting excited for fun, punchy colors and prints after a long season of boots and cozy sweaters. There are plenty of spring trends coming our way, but I am choosing to focus on some fruity inspiration today. Lemons, pears and pineapples are just the beginning! Enjoy TCB's collection of ways to bring in some fruity fun into your wardrobe and home.</div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/fruit_punch/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=115006610" target="_blank"><img alt="Fruit Punch" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/rBb5XScSmgBuowM0nXbkA/cid/115006610/id/CgNkbJGh4xGArWr_mu7EJQ/size/c600x626.jpg" force="1" height="626" title="Fruit Punch" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/fruit_punch/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=115006610" target="_blank">Fruit Punch</a> </span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=99806417" rel="nofollow">Dolce Gabbana cotton dress</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97711193" rel="nofollow">Pattern sweater</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=101650463" rel="nofollow">Cotton sweater</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=101303804" rel="nofollow">River Island pumps</a>, $84 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=103958916" rel="nofollow">Loeffler Randall locking purse</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=102104064" rel="nofollow">River Island yellow clutch</a>, $30 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=103959142" rel="nofollow">Kate Spade tech accessory</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104299818" rel="nofollow">Long cotton scarve</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104304780" rel="nofollow">Wall art</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=31298893" rel="nofollow">RIFLE paper wall art</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104304508" rel="nofollow">Salad plate</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=43078487" rel="nofollow">Diptyque scented candle</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104300121" rel="nofollow">Stack of Apples</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104300255" rel="nofollow">Heirloom Pear</a></span></small></div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-30896666570866596162014-03-03T10:26:00.001-08:002014-03-03T22:23:44.928-08:00The Nesting Broad<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While I am not a huge fan of all the terms that come along with carrying another human ("pregnancy brain" is at the top of my list)... I must say that while I once scoffed at the term "nesting", the instinct to get a room ready for a future nugget is a strong one. Since I have been asked by a few to share the little one's nursery, here goes...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>It starts with a broad and a board</b><span style="text-align: center;"><br />Boy do I love </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/home" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">polyvore</a><span style="text-align: center;">. I had several ideas in my head the moment I knew I'd be re-doing our guest room and this was the perfect place to start. It really helps you wrangle all the ideas so you can see what works, which colors you want to hone in on, etc. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/room/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=98543987" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img alt="Room" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/ycKbFkwqgimhRAoVUZA3w/cid/98543987/id/RLaiegCj4xGEmQ64O-wIHA/size/c600x556.jpg" force="1" height="592" title="Room" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/room/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=98543987" target="_blank">Room</a> by <a href="http://allilucia.polyvore.com/?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger" target="_blank">allilucia</a> </span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ideas into action</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Luckily, with a couple of showers and some creative ways of reusing old furniture items, I was able to make the space look new. I'd also like to personally thank Ikea, The Container Store and Craig's List for existing...</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjorGOdFHu-3Ot5Qd3XdhY2ToWfXQ0EIPmyyF-GCOVejCERJ34wWy-qWc4T9bb1EMX1WqE-QdP0UDj_KORLFFK8UYnsu9_eek-YvUguE_UbNC02r4d3PlecGg3j3HS1Sy-LFZYjB3Mg-v6U/s1600/IMG_2346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjorGOdFHu-3Ot5Qd3XdhY2ToWfXQ0EIPmyyF-GCOVejCERJ34wWy-qWc4T9bb1EMX1WqE-QdP0UDj_KORLFFK8UYnsu9_eek-YvUguE_UbNC02r4d3PlecGg3j3HS1Sy-LFZYjB3Mg-v6U/s1600/IMG_2346.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Entering Baby B's Room.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Without knowing the gender, I decided a mint was the perfect option for going neutral without choosing beige. It seemed to also be the right combo of calm while also being cheery (what better combo for a room or even for a baby for that matter?!). </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I'll girl up the space with either pops of bright pink and/or coral or make it more boyish with some navy and orange.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{Paint Color: <a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/coolmint" target="_blank">Cool Mint</a>, Benjamin Moore}</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I had my eye on this San Francisco art well before a baby room was a reality. This was my first purchase for baby and the color scheme helped with a lot of other decisions. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I also spruced up an old Ikea Dresser with some new Hardware.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{Art from <a href="http://www.petitcollage.com/san-francisco-print-on-wood" target="_blank">Petit Collage</a>, in a <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40101040/" target="_blank">RIBBA frame</a>, Ikea}</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.rhbabyandchild.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=rhbc_prod398288&categoryId=search" target="_blank">Chambray Giraffe Pull Toy</a> from RH Baby & Child}<br />{Brass Ring Pulls from <a href="http://www.goingknobs.com/Product/Richelieu_Hardware_920233BB_Povera_Collection_Brass_Ring_Pull_-_920_in_Burnished_Brass" target="_blank">Going Knobs</a></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">}</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I got a shower gift wrapped in this paper and fell in love with it. I used it to not only line the dresser drawers but also as a piece of art above the changing table.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{Cavallini English ABC's wrapping paper, <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/item/Cavallini-English-ABCs-Wrapping-Paper/3650.041/475230.html" target="_blank">Paper Source</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This was an idea I'd seen in many variations all over Pinterest. I bought two cheap ledges and adorned them with the wonderful gifts from </span><a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2014/02/bookworm-baby-b.html" style="font-size: medium;" target="_blank">Baby B's Book Shower</a><span style="font-size: small;">. What's better than good books doubling as wall art? It's not only functional but you can swap out books for pictures, figurines, and other keepsakes down the road.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20126065/" target="_blank">RIBBA Picture Ledge</a>, Ikea}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">The main advice I got from experienced mamas was that I would want a comfortable, cozy chair, and one that preferably rocked AND reclined. Of course once I started looking, I was put off by the high prices of chairs that seemed to lack comfort or could only rock or recline, but not do both. So after some perusing Craig's List, I found an option that a family was selling. I recovered it with my own chosen fabric and also used Craig's List to find someone to take care of that portion (I might do some DIY projects, but I have NO business reupholstering). The end product was a pretty custom-feeling chair for much less than buying a new chair that didn't check all of the boxes. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="https://www.fabric.com/buy/0305082/vertical-ticking-stripe-ivory-grey" target="_blank">Ticking Stripe Fabric</a>, fabric.com}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">The comfy factor has been approved by big brother as well.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.caitlinwilsontextiles.com/?p=product&sku=83&d=1&pre=p!category|c!pillowcovers|patt!|s!|fabric!" target="_blank">Mint Anchors Pillow</a>, Caitlin Wilson Textiles}<br />{<a href="http://www.rhbabyandchild.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=rhbc_prod381149&categoryId=search" target="_blank">Chambray Dog</a>, RH Baby & Child}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Martha-Stewart-Living-Wales-30-in-x-30-in-Metal-Antique-Gold-Framed-Mirror-72930/203024519" target="_blank">Antique Gold Framed Mirror,</a> Home Depot}<br />{<a href="http://www.lampsplus.com/products/citrus-yellow-small-gourd-accent-table-lamp__y7580-x8906.html" target="_blank">Citrus Yellow Gourd Lamp</a>, Lamps Plus}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">One of my all-time favorite cards I have received came from my mom. I felt it fit perfectly in a baby room, so again, I threw it in an Ikea frame. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">The Kate Spade frame was a gift from a thoughtful friend who remembered me admiring it in her own home not too long ago. I think it's the perfect gift for a couple expecting their first little one. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Quotable-Cards-Greatest-Earthly-Blessing/dp/B003IGI77G" target="_blank">Card</a> available on Amazon and <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/00078051/#/00078032" target="_blank">RIBBA</a> frame, Ikea}<br />{"...And Baby Makes Three" frame, Kate Spade, <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/kate-spade-new-york-baby-makes-three-5x7-frame/3155843" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Thanks to a Serena & Lily Sample sale, I was able to stock up on some wonderful neutral crib accessories at great prices. Despite my original plan to go with more grey options, the white and tan complemented the mint colors well. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/catalina-cottage-crib/" target="_blank">Catalina Cottage Crib</a>, Pottery Barn Kids}<br />{Mocha <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Baby/A-La-Carte-Mocha-Basics-Crib-Bumper" target="_blank">Crib Bumper</a>, <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Baby/A-La-Carte-Mocha-Basics-Crib-Skirt" target="_blank">Skirt</a> and <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Baby/For-Boys-Crib-Sheets-Mocha-Trellis" target="_blank">Trellis Sheet</a>, Serena & Lily}</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br />**A note on safety**</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I will most likely not be using the bumper once the babe sleeps in the crib but I couldn't resist setting it up since it looked so darn cute. I also plan on adding a monogram decal above the crib, much like the one I had in my old <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlSPLmZOmSpxJrNjdYHxl9QDqhj05N_yypBOMTBghWVs8Xnv5Q093R1M5U81tJHxLj20vws7N0N8Y3zrFpPsMp00qaW1N_fHD0YNBXryTyJCGXAZmDgopBoUAng1ZW9P0LjUTzYZEc0Ww/s1600/ALL+-+2009+125.jpg" target="_blank">studio</a>, as my husband doubles as the a safety police and will not allow anything hung above the crib. But on this matter we agree. Plus, I need to <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2012/02/put-letter-on-it.html" target="_blank">put a letter on it</a> in this room!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Some of my favorite gifts I have received live in this corner of the room. My bestie got me the adorable Lion nightlight and my mother has enabled my obsession with Blabla Kids knit dolls...</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.jonathanadler.com/Nightlight-Lion" target="_blank">Lion Nightlight</a>, Jonathan Adler}<br />{Socks the Fox, MiniLondon Dog and Wooly the Sheep all from , <a href="http://www.blablakids.com/Online-Shopping/knit-dolls" target="_blank">Blabla Kids</a>}<br />{<a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Baby/Baby-Storage-Senegalese-Baskets-White-Natural" target="_blank">Senegalese Storage Basket</a>, Serena & Lily}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvFLbPa2dSkTbpRjVw1o04K6VSzy0Ltr0gpoBLRUQw9u42qjGubvsZ606OvxU_bnWzEhccvAixaieMzR7pJ5O80q3ue2iVMnfTdtPiKHnmsLXeOa4V7GKS6OupdM2o3kReov0NpZ5KHgR/s1600/IMG_2361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvFLbPa2dSkTbpRjVw1o04K6VSzy0Ltr0gpoBLRUQw9u42qjGubvsZ606OvxU_bnWzEhccvAixaieMzR7pJ5O80q3ue2iVMnfTdtPiKHnmsLXeOa4V7GKS6OupdM2o3kReov0NpZ5KHgR/s1600/IMG_2361.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's amazing what you can do with old furniture. This "changing table" was a previous TV stand, with a changing pad </span><a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90090256/" style="font-size: medium;" target="_blank">attachment</a><span style="font-size: small;"> added on top. </span><span style="font-size: small;">I also used the same drawer </span><a href="http://www.goingknobs.com/Product/Richelieu_Hardware_920233BB_Povera_Collection_Brass_Ring_Pull_-_920_in_Burnished_Brass" style="font-size: medium;" target="_blank">pulls</a><span style="font-size: small;"> as an update.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{<a href="http://www.rhbabyandchild.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=rhbc_prod261158&categoryId=search" target="_blank">Changing Pad Cover</a>, RH Baby & Child}<br />{<a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/storage/binsBaskets/viewAll?productId=10029541" target="_blank">Water Hyacinth Baskets,</a> The Container Store}<br />{<a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30216536/" target="_blank">Raskog Utility Cart</a>, Ikea} </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9W_lYCIbAcx9h-HBgJh2fr2jqRc6Eq8NYsb4QiCB-zJQ3ObXEsiGSlmyrJRjqy-v-Rg9ZiW1SmqaEsifZtbfV3a05nW8IqayrjuYtgc18FJsttLpv2XNshsA0puOLs-NdH6Afj1TFM3yc/s1600/IMG_2357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9W_lYCIbAcx9h-HBgJh2fr2jqRc6Eq8NYsb4QiCB-zJQ3ObXEsiGSlmyrJRjqy-v-Rg9ZiW1SmqaEsifZtbfV3a05nW8IqayrjuYtgc18FJsttLpv2XNshsA0puOLs-NdH6Afj1TFM3yc/s1600/IMG_2357.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I love the look of making art look like it's from an old classroom. I </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">used the same aforementioned </span><a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/item/Cavallini-English-ABCs-Wrapping-Paper/3650.041/475230.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: medium;" target="_blank">ABC print</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"> and created a DIY dowel and twine hanging piece using the idea and how-to from </span><a href="http://www.homeheartcraft.com/blog/diy-dowel-hanging-nature-poster" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: medium;" target="_blank">Home Heart Craft</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">. Total cost for this project came in under $12!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This utility cart was one I'd seen many times and now that I own one, I can think of why I need at least 3 more in my home. It can serve so many uses! And I'm not the only one who thinks the same... </span><a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-use-the-50-ikea-raskog-cart-in-every-room-of-the-house-199296" style="font-size: medium;" target="_blank">See for yourself.</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><b>Bags are Packed</b><span style="text-align: center;"><br />And now, we wait... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Need another cute idea for a gift? Try a personalized tote bag for a future mama. I got the above from a thoughtful and creative friend and just love it. I can't wait to see where this bag gets to travel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br />Until next time....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">~TCB</span></div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-5541620892578267302014-02-23T22:31:00.002-08:002015-09-02T09:35:47.373-07:00Bookworm Baby B<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Over two years ago, a dear friend came up with the wonderful idea that instead of a regular baby shower, she wanted one in which guests only brought the gift of books to build her future child's library. I loved the idea and hosted that <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2012/01/showering-baby-g.html" target="_blank">shindig</a> in my home. Well it was such a hit, that we did it <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/08/pink-or-blue.html" target="_blank">again</a> for another friend of mine last year. Since they say good things come in 3's, I decided there was no better idea for Baby B. <br /><br />I truly felt so blessed for the library-building soiree that 3 dear friends threw earlier this month. And, while the party theme isn't new, I just have to share the fantastic touches these classy broads added to make this celebration unique. <br />So without further ado... some adorable details...<br /><br /><b>Setting the Tone</b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">My heart skipped a beat when this bad boy arrived in my mailbox. I love me some mint and coral. <br />The hostesses knew me better than I know myself.<br />Invites from the ridiculously cute <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/casalastudio?utm_source=convo&utm_medium=trans_email&utm_campaign=convo_html" target="_blank">Casala Studio</a>. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Chalk It Up</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/11/broad-in-box.html" target="_blank">Chalkboards</a>, framed quotes, or other signs really are the easiest way to create a personal touch with ease. Since one of the hostesses is a teacher, there were inspiring quotes about reading. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9w5Sv6ogGs_E1orb3W1lc1h76qDFK5zMvjnNhDruDk0CHv32E6IAmUBeKtg6IbC0utzuNikB3nOTcO5u_WBf07JYbWIkPg1mtURn8D42_7qBUpdWNsyhKUqD8wV2Ic4SSrLmXL7yqqDxe/s1600/6.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9w5Sv6ogGs_E1orb3W1lc1h76qDFK5zMvjnNhDruDk0CHv32E6IAmUBeKtg6IbC0utzuNikB3nOTcO5u_WBf07JYbWIkPg1mtURn8D42_7qBUpdWNsyhKUqD8wV2Ic4SSrLmXL7yqqDxe/s1600/6.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">An "Oh Baby" and "We <3 Baby B" sign were displayed. The cutest touch? Small paper books were placed amidst the bunting. Such a sweet extra little something to go with the theme. </span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9Z9viCeBdmHxb5VIBrTjzy3TXbaAgaDDKYDk8hm-lkc9i30CupXIJengBdDeI-udpHHG-Wmtv7FQsjpRidkdzIxT0fLFCmDjkZwzYW241QrPXKjCOmfs0uzDEzYak3npNwPe4RbXgrFf/s1600/2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9Z9viCeBdmHxb5VIBrTjzy3TXbaAgaDDKYDk8hm-lkc9i30CupXIJengBdDeI-udpHHG-Wmtv7FQsjpRidkdzIxT0fLFCmDjkZwzYW241QrPXKjCOmfs0uzDEzYak3npNwPe4RbXgrFf/s1600/2.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><b>The Spread</b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPNRfvqzKgtrmH5JGkZtgwtireAPwCA1SxXTPCfwXBuRL8PS5Fe5X0f0CxQyjMSa6tlb4qrgyiGhXyyWbxQT-5G0FhiObxyLh6PBd4DA1yU70-dyW8xIFTt-CEKAAMrPeUSowjITtr-Ds/s1600/8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPNRfvqzKgtrmH5JGkZtgwtireAPwCA1SxXTPCfwXBuRL8PS5Fe5X0f0CxQyjMSa6tlb4qrgyiGhXyyWbxQT-5G0FhiObxyLh6PBd4DA1yU70-dyW8xIFTt-CEKAAMrPeUSowjITtr-Ds/s1600/8.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">This is where the creativity really ups the ante. Each item for the buffet-style lunch was matched to a children's book. Delicious quiche with "Green Eggs and Ham", </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">pasta with "Strega Nona", </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">a sweet berry salad with "The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear", cookies and milk for "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie", macaroons for "Madeline"... I could go on, but I think you get the idea. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPF8pF5_ZbFmaffS_N9oRUA5hf9JaDdmvHsdOj8PRKUROhFAC-BdEh7Ie0Ce7FMC_EhFbvWpecS7YrxBalyQGOV7zaMN-Z7_fktiXRoiFD0CcCrvOLUcY8RZRwZlSsDYt7TA5WJN1wZEv/s1600/12.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPF8pF5_ZbFmaffS_N9oRUA5hf9JaDdmvHsdOj8PRKUROhFAC-BdEh7Ie0Ce7FMC_EhFbvWpecS7YrxBalyQGOV7zaMN-Z7_fktiXRoiFD0CcCrvOLUcY8RZRwZlSsDYt7TA5WJN1wZEv/s1600/12.jpeg" width="640" /></a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil9LhqA0bv3JIpwJxKV0nk1rxFp05nE9AdDp3iHJju5kypCf_WJ7bCuo9wnOcGoxEzKGtRzIezCVvjsprLdpUF-oHJWwu_bYkZ41xjt-wI37rKSdm-jyZAyKvdP_4efVyaZL1j9bU6NAfD/s1600/11.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil9LhqA0bv3JIpwJxKV0nk1rxFp05nE9AdDp3iHJju5kypCf_WJ7bCuo9wnOcGoxEzKGtRzIezCVvjsprLdpUF-oHJWwu_bYkZ41xjt-wI37rKSdm-jyZAyKvdP_4efVyaZL1j9bU6NAfD/s1600/11.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Oh, and peach bellinis accompanied by "James and the Giant Peach"!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Finishing Touches</span></b></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://photo2.craftgawker.com/wp-content/uploads/craft/2012/09/167636.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://photo2.craftgawker.com/wp-content/uploads/craft/2012/09/167636.jpeg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Here's a new twist on drink markers I had never thought of before...Use some fun washi tape. <br />Easy peasy and oh so crafty.<br />Photo <a href="http://craftgawker.com/post/2012/09/20/38248/" target="_blank">Via</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibCqGkpLx7IX1OGhB6UWKuRSMUweMcrENBbo-pSxzpXEzEbv-eyGFbrI_pXAfOeFFychcN0ojnagn11UvIXyy3I8I-B-aDvOvMygncgpNuEcVKKff5qTRugDxLycXKu_VzJoNNNeeratYm/s1600/17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibCqGkpLx7IX1OGhB6UWKuRSMUweMcrENBbo-pSxzpXEzEbv-eyGFbrI_pXAfOeFFychcN0ojnagn11UvIXyy3I8I-B-aDvOvMygncgpNuEcVKKff5qTRugDxLycXKu_VzJoNNNeeratYm/s1600/17.png" width="318" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Guests were encouraged to make their predictions of Baby B's gender, arrival date and stats on a giant library card, complete with a <a href="http://www.staples.com/OIC-Stampmate-Line-Dater-Type-Size-1-1-2/product_348278?externalize=certona" target="_blank">date stamp</a>. Such a creative idea!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalngLlZy5NjLZzT0RwiECYxG718rCbOFoizGCEEKk7zHejrps4HGTnjJUxPjpF2zPcwvMUfBJAnu-6pN3a4KFPcsGZkssCSJ3CXcR7F6cgjvXHivuMbdCdG7JYnq2dRKXbkeCDJhjzlEM/s1600/4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalngLlZy5NjLZzT0RwiECYxG718rCbOFoizGCEEKk7zHejrps4HGTnjJUxPjpF2zPcwvMUfBJAnu-6pN3a4KFPcsGZkssCSJ3CXcR7F6cgjvXHivuMbdCdG7JYnq2dRKXbkeCDJhjzlEM/s1600/4.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Party Favors were "Baby Bentz Bookworms" which were candy bags filled with sour gummy worms (a favorite sweet of moi). Bags were purchased from <a href="http://makerylosaltos.com/" target="_blank">The Makery</a>. Labels and glasses rubber <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/item/Glasses-Rubber-Stamp/2901.010/871695.html" target="_blank">stamp</a> from Paper Source. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b>Photo Ops</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaIeTqqZOHjF1a3_KrIU_k7_-zM99SbFE5CueJWByhiqQ85c8B78hyqvNI7aCmD21FPGCrXpismCDb26Q-bsQFfrTRpueqIkOipSm-gXXFUAihES755r5mmBwAebccjlcV6b88QxqeoC-/s1600/18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaIeTqqZOHjF1a3_KrIU_k7_-zM99SbFE5CueJWByhiqQ85c8B78hyqvNI7aCmD21FPGCrXpismCDb26Q-bsQFfrTRpueqIkOipSm-gXXFUAihES755r5mmBwAebccjlcV6b88QxqeoC-/s1600/18.png" width="357" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">The classy hostesses and yours truly</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisCvyEJjMr2j9u7ETBkyDSaXNphQ-SHYMzMfQaahA1gOIwQe123qhNZOmNViFojWpSbaQgjrOTkHbxPcxp7Q9t9QtzbbBBB54a5K-XUGvZe-jklGVDih9jsJTgwbHh0g1XQWqfA84EWCRb/s1600/19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisCvyEJjMr2j9u7ETBkyDSaXNphQ-SHYMzMfQaahA1gOIwQe123qhNZOmNViFojWpSbaQgjrOTkHbxPcxp7Q9t9QtzbbBBB54a5K-XUGvZe-jklGVDih9jsJTgwbHh0g1XQWqfA84EWCRb/s1600/19.png" width="288" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">We are all suckers for photos with a few balloons and a great view...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrspTUneIG8gYsKgRcfVcceAydMBJr5QDDqnQZTbFw1vTUxHlZgv70ZQZbx_wIzJMrRu8jr_Dwjj2_5OtgazZMQS_1SemhEzSO1NYFE3EcdBG8Edq5IGzM88jAc_xyYA8Fhhq7VWYfUzDr/s1600/20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrspTUneIG8gYsKgRcfVcceAydMBJr5QDDqnQZTbFw1vTUxHlZgv70ZQZbx_wIzJMrRu8jr_Dwjj2_5OtgazZMQS_1SemhEzSO1NYFE3EcdBG8Edq5IGzM88jAc_xyYA8Fhhq7VWYfUzDr/s1600/20.png" width="298" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> That's a wrap! Another shower in the books!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDI6Wquhm7g8GxaLZENyy_1pJxIQYR5VqQv25YYMfV92gan5mUVjkpZ0fcynw5vxtoqsuvjD0nAzHcA9A-TD8ncgAnRX8jSaA8MUAl5ihxhkdcJQjYd3IjFa6Cs_r2vmtqrU51LusM3dn/s1600/21.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDI6Wquhm7g8GxaLZENyy_1pJxIQYR5VqQv25YYMfV92gan5mUVjkpZ0fcynw5vxtoqsuvjD0nAzHcA9A-TD8ncgAnRX8jSaA8MUAl5ihxhkdcJQjYd3IjFa6Cs_r2vmtqrU51LusM3dn/s1600/21.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">And did I mention, Baby B's bookshelf is overflowing!? </span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thankful really doesn't begin to describe it. I can't wait to read to my little bookworm. <br /><br />Until next time, My Broads...<br />~TCB </span><br />
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<br />Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-14071400382966126132014-02-14T14:07:00.000-08:002014-02-15T16:10:33.841-08:00Out with the Old...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sPyYmES1LCvCKRcR2Ei4lztbi_VJP_owqo9eAOtjwOm0NoQ9ucORJ9Gu-88fgPs1iY0eMs9Gh1csPU4rOgdQYC9TJNhXDHXjU-lUl9d_xZr8Yugueb2JeoSjk329YVHx5tqruH0kZ_sH/s1600/pic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sPyYmES1LCvCKRcR2Ei4lztbi_VJP_owqo9eAOtjwOm0NoQ9ucORJ9Gu-88fgPs1iY0eMs9Gh1csPU4rOgdQYC9TJNhXDHXjU-lUl9d_xZr8Yugueb2JeoSjk329YVHx5tqruH0kZ_sH/s1600/pic.png" height="400" width="253" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{image <a href="http://bonniemarcus.com/" target="_blank">via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well my broads, it's been a while since I blogged and that is because nearly all of my free time has been <i>away </i> from any kind of computer and <i>amongst </i> the stuff that collectively fills my home. I've not made any major announcements, but let's just say this broad's family is growing from a family of three (fur baby included) to a soon to be family of four. Yikes. Not only has this been an extremely exciting time in my life, it's made me really reevaluate just all that stuff a broad acquires along the way. Albeit living in a modestly-sized 2 bedroom San Francisco apartment, I really curated quite the collection of $@#!. I've always prided myself in being a good purger of things throughout the year, not just in the spring. However, being faced with needing to turn a guest room into a nursery and, more importantly, losing that room's closet space and furniture, made me realize I have a huge problem letting go of things. I am proud of the accomplishments made - all the trips to Goodwill and the Container Store, eliminating nearly all items from a desk and two closets, clearing out entire dresser drawers to instead fill with much smaller clothes, sharing more space in my main closet with my baby daddy - they have been worth it. I feel less weighed down, less cluttered by unnecessary STUFF and I can see the light at the end of the almost completed nursery tunnel. More to come on that soon. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For now, I'd like to share some lessons I've picked up along the way in my month of ultimate purging. May these 3 tips help other broads as well.<br /><br /><b>1. How many do you <i>really</i> need?</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgZVpIXUX6aq_m5Q8sD8M8Iz72_H3FRaUUwZsjtr9jh74DjOL98s1WlPdqCuL_eKc87cJPU9SpgHZlpd1JgFH7smgoKOMDZ5X_5LHWiE2wJ9hjeRJjtQWSJn3CJbA3nDCkM7PHUIWO1RD/s1600/IMG_2093.jpeg" height="425" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">TCB debating which votives, glasses, jars and vases to keep or purge... <br />I remained in this spot with this expression for at least an hour one evening. <br />Have I mentioned I don't always make decisions well?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-align: start;">I've shared my thoughts on the </span><a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2012/01/classy-broads-entertaining-arsenal.html" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">arsenal</a><span style="text-align: start;"> every hostess should have. While I am sticking to that, I have realized that my mistake over the years has been collecting too many of these types of items. Does one really need 12+ milk glass votives or fleur de lis glasses or vases in every size and shape? The answer is no. Go through your items, and reduce.<br /><br />When choosing what stays and goes, the order should go as follows: sentimental items or family heirlooms, most used and/or versatile items (remember a pitcher can pour water and work as a vase), and lastly, those that take up the least space. Get <i>rid </i>of the rest. Last time I checked, stores still exist if you needed to buy one item down the road (though be careful as collecting is a vicious, dangerous cycle). And keep this in mind - The probability of an entire party being ruined because you were missing a certain item is... let me see.... carry the one... ZERO.<br /><br />And this doesn't only apply to home decor items. Whatever your collection vice might be- coffee mugs, catchall trays, candles - this advice will work.</span><b style="text-align: start;">2. Let go of the packaging</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66-QwK4PSp4ZyjLo4ErXZHayYq8Lxo0a95gyB9MV6fm0sob3lSV1enIM6Iaj67_qw7eTfuyDn1MTyRRvQY0AuLm6DjFqdjCh2sIDYDEX9CvMHFfbPLxtHR7i6AhrfvyHuEyRizjKxnAeA/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66-QwK4PSp4ZyjLo4ErXZHayYq8Lxo0a95gyB9MV6fm0sob3lSV1enIM6Iaj67_qw7eTfuyDn1MTyRRvQY0AuLm6DjFqdjCh2sIDYDEX9CvMHFfbPLxtHR7i6AhrfvyHuEyRizjKxnAeA/s1600/photo.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />I know. No one appreciates a nicely wrapped item as much as I. It pains me to throw away nice boxes of any sort. And shoe boxes? Forget it. I literally had 18 in my closet because I not only loved the way they looked but I felt as though it made my closet somewhat organized. I also held on to them since it was a reminder of my hard earned dollars that bought nice shoes that I felt were deserved. Well, Guess what? I forgot about certain pairs all the time because I could not see them. And the boxes literally took up 4 times the amount of space that the shoes did. So, alas, I took every pair out and bid adieu to the lovely boxes. What seemed so tough on recycling pick up day hasn't bothered me in the slightest since I made the decision to let go. If you really can't part with all of them (The <a href="http://www.pourlavictoire.com/shoes.html" target="_blank">Pour La Victoire boxes</a> were the hardest for me), then find a use for it to store things under your bed, in a linen closet, etc. But they don't need to hold your shoes.<br /><br />Since I was in the business of maximizing the space I had and reducing clutter, I resorted to the over- the-door hanging shoe racks and I must say that being able to see all of my options has really made me don some of my previously neglected shoes as of late.<br /><br />If you have more space, here are some drool-worthy ideas for shoe storage and display</span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b8/56/04/b85604b2d8561ad5416264a393f89ee3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b8/56/04/b85604b2d8561ad5416264a393f89ee3.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Display ledges, whether they're inside a closet (above) or on the wall (like below), make your shoes look like the pieces of art that they are.<br />{image <a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b8/56/04/b85604b2d8561ad5416264a393f89ee3.jpg" target="_blank">via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{image <a href="https://twitter.com/azorias/status/127302570761920512/photo/1" target="_blank">via</a>}</span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.babble.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/9-antique-furniture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://www.babble.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/9-antique-furniture.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Though an idea better suited for those who are not lacking space, I love the idea of using an old piece of furniture to display shoes. {image <a href="http://www.babble.com/home/16-smart-shoe-storage-solutions/" target="_blank">via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/7d/4e/0f/7d4e0f48c0717779c1735cea2be1e654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/7d/4e/0f/7d4e0f48c0717779c1735cea2be1e654.jpg" height="400" width="297" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Closet stock full already? These slim shoe bins hide everything away nicely and take up little space along the wall. <br />{image <a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/7d/4e/0f/7d4e0f48c0717779c1735cea2be1e654.jpg" target="_blank">via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/9e/c5/7c/9ec57cd59cd5e1d955b19dd47a7dce24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/9e/c5/7c/9ec57cd59cd5e1d955b19dd47a7dce24.jpg" height="400" width="325" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Remember that shoes don't need to only live in the closet or bedroom. In fact, if it can work in your space, taking your kicks on and off right before coming and going is ideal for lots of reasons (convenience, cleanliness, etc.). If your entry way has space for slim bins, make your entry table or console a sneaky place for shoes. Did I mention these are from <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60156121/" target="_blank">Ikea</a>? The swedes do it again.<br />{image <a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/9e/c5/7c/9ec57cd59cd5e1d955b19dd47a7dce24.jpg" target="_blank">via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Need more ideas? Check out these 16 Smart Ideas from <a href="http://www.babble.com/home/16-smart-shoe-storage-solutions/" target="_blank">Babble</a>.<br /><br /><b>3. Shop Like You're French</b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b></b></span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNB8FXLF_LbD24d5yVvaVvjtkOcB6bEL-_AKCkkUBBuWn4gjrGTUhjue10jvROo6oFOTh0PHurw7qKmFYI0OpVBROCYvDaFkIhN1djnvkyEIJdAzaMBiKtriGt_nT8Ao5NQt3WWrPGOT97/s1600/french.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNB8FXLF_LbD24d5yVvaVvjtkOcB6bEL-_AKCkkUBBuWn4gjrGTUhjue10jvROo6oFOTh0PHurw7qKmFYI0OpVBROCYvDaFkIhN1djnvkyEIJdAzaMBiKtriGt_nT8Ao5NQt3WWrPGOT97/s1600/french.png" height="289" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">{image <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/106882.French_Women_Don_t_Get_Fat" target="_blank">via</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I once had a co-worker tell me that I shopped like a french woman. I immediately thanked her, and then asked what that meant. She said that unlike us gluttonous Americans, french people (and really many other cultures both within and beyond the EU) buy quality over quantity. It's not rare to see someone in the same gorgeous, high quality piece over and over again. I again thanked her and secretly thought that I didn't shop this way at all but I <i>should</i>. This could not be more true when it comes to cleaning out closets and drawers. The items that always fall in the "keep" pile are those that are timeless, higher quality, well made and fitting, etc. I literally have cashmere sweaters that are 10 years old that will forever go to the "keep" side of things. While items may have been higher priced upon initial purchase, one equals the 20 trendy tops that were bought and lasted a season or fell apart. Keep this in mind as you shop and your closet space will thank you.<br /><br />Here are just a few of those timeless pieces I am talking about..</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Cashmere can stand the test of time. While this example is black, don't steer away from a fun color or pattern like stripes.<br />{100% Cashmere Sweater, Vince via <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-v-neck-rack-stitch-sweater/3606760?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Coastal&resultback=720&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_2_C" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://g.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Gigantic/9/_7833909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://g.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Gigantic/9/_7833909.jpg" height="320" width="208" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">In my dreams, I own this shoe. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Sexy, Flattering, Good Quality (read: Also Comfortable!) Shoes will remain in your closet for years. <br />{Manolo Blahnik Nude Pump, via <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/manolo-blahnik-bb-pointy-toe-pump/3209276?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=NUDE&resultback=2793&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_8_D" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a>}</span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://g.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Gigantic/12/_8439872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://g.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Gigantic/12/_8439872.jpg" height="320" width="208" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Can't go wrong with an LBD. Splurge once on a style that is flattering and makes you feel better as soon as it's zipped up and it will get you through countless weddings, cocktail parties and anything else you're attending that you're just not sure what to wear...<br />{Dress by L'Agence, via <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/lagence-square-neck-ruched-dress/3630584?origin=PredictiveSearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=60126613&fashionColor=&resultback=0&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_2_A" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a>}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am happy to say that after a month of organizing, purging, storing and donating, this broad's second bedroom is well on its way to being a nursery...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">....More to come on the finished project soon!</span>Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-84698359526823486732014-01-14T09:19:00.001-08:002014-01-14T09:20:21.361-08:00Just This...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I don't have much to say about the 2014 Golden Globes which aired two nights ago, other than the following:<br /><br /><b>1. I still want to be friends with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.parade.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/tina-faye-amy-poehler-opening-monologue-ftr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.parade.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/tina-faye-amy-poehler-opening-monologue-ftr.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Photo <a href="http://www.parade.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/tina-faye-amy-poehler-opening-monologue-ftr.jpg" target="_blank">Via</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>2. I was underwhelmed by 98% of the dresses selected by the stars. </b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media1.onsugar.com/files/2014/01/12/070/n/1922398/b6cc82d6325c261c_462094861_10.jpg.xxxlarge/i/Julia-Roberts-Golden-Globes-2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media1.onsugar.com/files/2014/01/12/070/n/1922398/b6cc82d6325c261c_462094861_10.jpg.xxxlarge/i/Julia-Roberts-Golden-Globes-2014.jpg" width="404" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Photo <a href="http://media1.onsugar.com/files/2014/01/12/070/n/1922398/b6cc82d6325c261c_462094861_10.jpg.xxxlarge/i/Julia-Roberts-Golden-Globes-2014.jpg" target="_blank">Via</a><br />Really, Jules? I expected so much more from you. Tisk, tisk.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>3. I can't shake the Leonardo DiCaprio crush I've had since <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117509/" target="_blank">Romeo and Juliet</a>. </b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Photo <a href="http://www.oocities.org/hollywood/academy/8576/co4.jpg" target="_blank">Via</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.eonline.com/eol_images/Entire_Site/2014012/rs_560x415-140112194659-1024.leonardo-dicaprio-golden-globes-2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="http://www.eonline.com/eol_images/Entire_Site/2014012/rs_560x415-140112194659-1024.leonardo-dicaprio-golden-globes-2014.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>4. Sosie Bacon was by far the best dressed in this Broad's book...</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Miss Golden Globe</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www3.pictures.stylebistro.com/gi/71st+Annual+Golden+Globe+Awards+Arrivals+FeJxATKtMfcl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www3.pictures.stylebistro.com/gi/71st+Annual+Golden+Globe+Awards+Arrivals+FeJxATKtMfcl.jpg" width="434" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br />Photo <a href="http://www.stylebistro.com/Who+Wore+What+to+the+2014+Golden+Globe+Awards/articles/qpd1XMUButR/Sosie+Bacon+2014+Golden+Globes" target="_blank">Via</a>, Dress by Rhea Costa<br /><br />So she is automatically cool because her parents are Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, but then she goes ahead and wears something like this. I don't even think "fit" is the right word for how this looks on her shape. And while I am not generally a fan of the hair down when dressed up look, she finds the right balance of looking polished whilst still reminding everyone that she is but a young 21. <br />Fantastic all around.<br />And, I'm sorry but how cute is the name Sosie?? <br />[Applause]</span></td></tr>
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That's all for today, my broads.Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-47497449963037389212013-12-16T21:11:00.001-08:002013-12-16T21:11:27.066-08:00Gifts from the Home and Heart...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/6704186/il_570xN.351748882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/6704186/il_570xN.351748882.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Homemade stamp from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MissHoneyBird?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">MissHoneyBird</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well, my broads, the giving season is officially in full swing and will continue for another couple of weeks. While I had fun sharing ideas of <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-giving-broad.html" target="_blank">gifting</a> purchased items for those special broads in your life, I've been overwhelmed by the many homemade ideas I've seen (and received) during the season of giving.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So overwhelmed, in fact, that I had to share with you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There is just something so sincere about a gift that the recipient knows took time and thought to create. Here are some of the wonderful gifts I have received, my own personal homemade gift of the year, and some more creative ideas to get your own DIY on. As you'll see in the ideas below, it's all about making things in bulk, packaging it with your own unique touch, while saving some major bucks along the way. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is my jam...</span></b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Nothing makes breaky better than good ol' toast and jam. But why is it that when I am grocery shopping, I never get myself some? All the more reason to make a large batch and gift it to your loved ones. No doubt they will be grateful and put it to good use. My classy friend Jackie made the above organic raspberry jam and I literally "mmmed" out loud this morning when I had my first bite. Recipe ideas are all over the interwebs. Pour that homemade goodness in a mason jar, slap on a cute label and call it a day! </span><br />
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<a href="http://liagriffith.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ChristmasLabelPrintables.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://liagriffith.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ChristmasLabelPrintables.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Speaking of labels, check out the oh-so-lovely (FREE!) options courtesy of <a href="http://liagriffith.com/printable-christmas-labels-for-your-edible-gifts/" target="_blank">Lia Griffith</a>.</span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Crunchy Granola </span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKtxWGwLfYPQOSerKER0ZbUx1CmaqllmJk4pj6c4Sr_ZjGG2ieZ1d9h66YS-iggPeo-U5MdK8uNt2UfP_fR_86qVmDJCupKYK_NbRMG0GcR_SGAcQZEbYFTe-8yZlqQZRoleV_NQGPT_H/s640/blogger-image-1876530518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKtxWGwLfYPQOSerKER0ZbUx1CmaqllmJk4pj6c4Sr_ZjGG2ieZ1d9h66YS-iggPeo-U5MdK8uNt2UfP_fR_86qVmDJCupKYK_NbRMG0GcR_SGAcQZEbYFTe-8yZlqQZRoleV_NQGPT_H/s400/blogger-image-1876530518.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Granola is another great item to make in bulk and package for your nearest and dearest. My fellow broad Lindsey packaged her creation in cute <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10005560&N=&Ntt=jelly+jar" target="_blank">French-style Hermetic Terrines</a>, adorned with red and white candy striped packaging paper and sweet gift tags. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://img0.etsystatic.com/012/2/6923380/il_570xN.454726358_mct3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/012/2/6923380/il_570xN.454726358_mct3.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Any gift tag will do, but I personally love these from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CraftGoblin?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">Craft Goblin.</a></span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sew Impressive</span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">This is where the DIY gets REAL. My friend Shanna not only sought out a fabric that she thought I would like, but then she sewed dinner napkins for me. Needless to say, this is one of the most thoughtful gifts I've ever received and will surely become a fixture at our dinner table for years to come. And how cute was her wrap job? Twine. Label Tag. Letter Stamps. Gold Ink. I just can't think of a more perfect gift all around. </span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bee Merry</span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyha9iQzkwKXnkVsHfEyqj_4BFTCqFIfgCFpUd92eBU7vBrsr-7H9F_TIeTr8pGkbzJnGAv37kn30q2nMXSMNzQNC82ILp0_sNHNgG-IR6ZSDlvIFOgf3pCP4e30q5a-jSaWv0-44bK8r4/s400/photo%5B1%5D.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Now on to yours truly. A couple of weeks ago, I got to thinking that I really wanted to come up with a gift that I could give out to a handful of friends and family that would be affordable, easy to create, and have my own personal touch. After a quick search, I found this great list from <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/homemade-food-gifts#slide-1" target="_blank">Country Living</a> - no doubt there are tons of ideas to inspire you here. The Rosemary Honey spoke to me as my mind went racing with fun ideas for packaging. I had a vision of using honey dippers and my search online did not disappoint. Bottles bought from <a href="http://www.sks-bottle.com/340c/fin36s.html" target="_blank">SKS Bottle</a> and Honey Dippers from <a href="http://www.save-on-crafts.com/honeydippers.html" target="_blank">Save-On Crafts</a>. These items arrived fast and came to under $1 per. Win!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Infusing the honey with fresh rosemary was easy, especially since we have a bush in our backyard. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Recipe was simple and quick and can be found </span><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/recipefinder/rosemary-honey-recipe-clv1212" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: medium;" target="_blank">Here</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">After removing the rosemary that was steeped in the honey, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I bottled the jars with my creation,</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"> added a fresh sprig of rosemary to each jar and sealed the lid with some red and white polka dot</span><a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/item/Red-Polka-Dots-Washi-Tape/3620.040/429314.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: medium;" target="_blank"> Washi Tape</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaENqSytwwctu0tbzh30c5IbUyNTyzQqho9v7LYwVxoJuV6Ab1WX3olVZYJWFMQR74Rpf2ZBBuZ0Zl1NQmBmx3b8g1P83RC6_xd1n5vCMkz-JKSvGnIePmo-srCWGjlwu0hmG10Haw6VDN/s320/photo+3.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">I can't fight my love for <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/item/Red-White-Bakers-Twine/3650_042/442655.html" target="_blank">twine</a>. I adorned each jar with a those cute little dippers used the same circle label template I followed for <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/05/its-little-things.html" target="_blank">Chelsea's 30th party favors</a>. <br />Final product with a "Bee Merry" label is shown above.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">So now it's your turn... happy homemaking my broads!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><b><i>~TCB</i></b></span></div>
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Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3933607989110932504.post-76131468200654482632013-11-22T16:56:00.001-08:002013-11-22T16:56:24.791-08:00The Giving Broad<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gcy.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/givingt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://gcy.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/givingt.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://globalcitizenyear.org/updates/the-giving-tree/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></td></tr>
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A broad is nothing if she can't keep her promises. I mentioned in last week's <a href="http://the-classy-broad.blogspot.com/2013/11/broad-in-box.html" target="_blank">post</a> that I'd share some gifting ideas for the upcoming holiday season. So here I am. Keeping my promises. I know. I am too kind.<br />
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Without further ado, here are some ideas for the many friends/loved ones/co-workers you pulled in the office secret santa in your life. They say good things come in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rule_of_three_(writing)" target="_blank">threes</a>, so here goes...<br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/newly_engaged_broad/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104739781" target="_blank">The Newly Engaged Broad</a></b>Blame it on the jewelry company advertisements, there is just something about the impending holiday season that <strike>forces</strike> motivates men to propose. No doubt you know at least one newly engaged gal. The most thoughtful engagement gift I got was a pack of thank you notes and a roll of stamps. So simple, yet so practical. Second fave was a ring holder. Depending on your budget, more ideas to spark your mind are below. Or just buy some bubbly since everyone loves champagne.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/newly_engaged_broad/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104739781" target="_blank"><img alt="The Newly Engaged Broad" border="0" force="1" height="579" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/OqoaB5PC0OD6ZsRPxMmmw/cid/104739781/id/WLZaM9BT4xGDBofU6xSULw/size/c600x543.jpg" title="The Newly Engaged Broad" width="640" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=43568371" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Drinkware</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=94973448" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Giraffe home decor</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97857049" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Self Inking Address Stamp</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97856309" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">USPS Four Flags FOREVER Postage Stamps Roll Of 100 Stamps by Office...</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97857341" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Set of 40 Future Mrs. Engagement Blank Folded Notecards Thank You...</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=43974944" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Kate Spade necklace</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=84756097" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Engagement Thank You Cards</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> /<br /><br /></span><br />
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/entertaining_broad/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104713206" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Entertaining Broad</a><br />I've said it before. Those who love entertaining don't always love <i>buying </i>entertaining decor. Here are some ideas that any hostess is sure to treasure - and use! One can never have too many festive glassware sets, linens or just plain pretty things.<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/entertaining_broad/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104713206" target="_blank"><img alt="The Entertaining Broad" border="0" force="1" height="518" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/kgquHwsaMOYstFqbEClMQ/cid/104713206/id/3u44-a9T4xG6IwHbFIJoxg/size/c600x486.jpg" title="The Entertaining Broad" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=82280204" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Mason Jar Sippers</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97802357" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Drink coaster</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=96652819" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Cocktail strainer</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=94338101" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Paper napkin</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=96225594" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Drinkware</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=96965087" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Stoneware mug</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=95841647" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Table linens placemat</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=84383346" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Holiday decoration</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=96349347" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Glass vase</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=91879453" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Palace Trellis Glass</a><span style="font-size: 13px;"> / </span><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97849593" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 13px;">Table linens placemat</a><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/paper_loving_broad/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104705864" target="_blank">The Paper Loving Broad</a></b><br />So maybe I am talking about myself and maybe I made my own wish list below, but I have to think there are others out there who salivate just thinking of a card or paper store the way I do. Notebooks, 2014 Calendars (I have a friend who scours the entire bay area each year when the new KS comes out), boxed card sets, gift tags, you get the drift.<br /><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/paper_loving_broad/set?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=104705864" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Paper Loving Broad" border="0" force="1" height="561" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/vCec1p46afg3Sxq5VCMg/cid/104705864/id/pmNRsq9T4xGj1H3eFIJoxg/size/c600x526.jpg" title="The Paper Loving Broad" width="640" /></a><br />
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97645582" rel="nofollow">Self Inking Address Stamp</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=95486826" rel="nofollow">Kate Spade home decor</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97644712" rel="nofollow">Paper Source Perpetual Calendar</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97803038" rel="nofollow">Flair Felt Tip Pens</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97802535" rel="nofollow">Cavallini Vintage Dog Note Cards</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97644721" rel="nofollow">Sugar Paper, Los Angeles</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97644606" rel="nofollow">Sugar Paper, Los Angeles</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97417071" rel="nofollow">Sugar Paper, Los Angeles</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=10742735" rel="nofollow">Pool Dots Rectangle Labels</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97849716" rel="nofollow">The Naughty The Nice Foil Notepad</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=83196334" rel="nofollow">Flamingo Folded Cards</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97849669" rel="nofollow">Cake Enclosure Cards</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=3473405&.svc=blogger&id=97802813" rel="nofollow">Personalize Wedding Invitations</a></small></div>
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That's all I've got for this Friday... Cheers to the weekend and to fun shopping and giving ahead!Allison Lucia Bentzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17016689113934232235noreply@blogger.com0