tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11599859938261080502024-02-20T19:39:30.026-06:00What up, Traycina?You thought I forgot your name....Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-51545171740490708872013-12-22T11:41:00.000-06:002013-12-22T11:46:25.965-06:00I give.Once upon a time, I blogged....<br />
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I blogged about random things. I blogged about funny things (at least I think they were funny). I blogged about whatever the fuck I felt like. This is a metaphor for my life. I could do whatever the fuck I felt like doing!<br />
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Then September came, and I had a child. And it was and is amazing. But, my ability to go to a movie on a whim is somewhat compromised. Of course, I realized that this change was coming while pregnant, but until you're really in it and watching the hours fly by in between feedings and diapers and laughs and smiles, you just don't quite comprehend the transformation. </div>
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So, I'm back. Blogging has always been a bit of a steam valve for my brain. When the brain gets too hot, it's time to funnel through the fingers. That's not to say that my blog posts have always been a way to vent or bitch, but I just have a lot of feelings...</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">That shit never gets old.</span></div>
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Nah, I'm not even really here to share feelings at this point. I just need to <i>write </i>sometimes! I'm a total scatterbrain, with clinical levels of anxiety, and writing focuses this very warbly person. And despite my irregularity, I truly enjoy putting <i><strike>pen</strike></i> finger to <i><strike>paper</strike></i> key.</div>
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If you've been following along, you've probably put two and two together to realize that I <i>technically </i>will now be considered a "Mommy Blogger." Ugh. BUT, BEFORE YOU ROLL YOUR EYES and click over to one of your 9 other browser windows (imdb, anyone?)... </div>
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I hereby promise not to commit the classic Mommy Blog fouls. </div>
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- I will not make you think that I live any sort of perfect family paradise</div>
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- I will not sugar coat</div>
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- I will not censor my sailor mouth</div>
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- I will not forget that I am a person in addition to a mom</div>
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- I will not make this blog into talk therapy session or a personal journal filled with drivel</div>
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- I will not have a perfectly decorated home for every holiday (or any holiday, for that matter)</div>
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- There will be no giveaways, there will be no advertisements*</div>
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I must, however, admit to you that the following are unavoidable:</div>
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- I will never NOT be a mom, which will likely affect my writing</div>
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- I will always believe that my child is gorgeous and smart</div>
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- I will certainly post pictures</div>
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- I will celebrate victories big and small (but also promise to acknowledge failures)</div>
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- I will include a fair share of day-to-day hum-drum life</div>
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- I will be opinionated, and - because it's my blog - I will think I'm right</div>
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In conclusion, I'm back. For today, anyway. I'll probably <a href="http://traycina.blogspot.com/2013/07/return-of-mac.html" target="_blank">forget again</a> and not post for a month. </div>
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C'est la vie.</div>
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Traycina</div>
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Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-17023200117275940372013-08-16T21:23:00.000-05:002013-08-16T21:23:18.869-05:00Gestation: 35 weeksholycrapRemember that time I was going to return to blogging and then a month went by? Weird. That's so unusual.<br />
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I'm trying to think of anything to share other than the usual pregnancy updates, but I'm seriously tired and seriously short on brain function. Neither of which seem to be inspiring deep thoughts.<br />
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Brian is out of town this weekend, which is kind of a bummer because I can't talk to him... BUT, it's great because I can sleep with as many pillows as I want! And that would be one giant body pillow, and four regular pillows, and two cat-shaped pillows that beg for food at 4am.<br />
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Progress in the nursery doesn't seem to be anything to the outsider, but we have ALL our baby things organized and in storage bins, and have moved them out of the room to prepare for paint and a quick clean of the carpets. That means as soon as that paint is on the walls (this week), it's GO TIME! It's honestly a great way to pass the time over the home stretch of pregnancy. So, if you're wondering if I'm "antsy" or "anxious for it to be over with" the answer is a big fat no! I have things to do before Tony Danza arrives, but if he/she did come soonish, we have everything necessary to keep him/her alive and well (diapers, blanket, boobs, hugs).<br />
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Here are some of the details....<br />
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Weeks: 35 (that would be 7/8 or 87.5% done)<br />
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Weight: Still -5 lbs since pre-pregnancy<br />
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Doctor's update: Measuring right on par, heart rate 160bpm<br />
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What I'm craving: Watermelon, water, margaritas, coconut curry, and one of our favorite <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/fettuccine-pasta-with-prosciutto-peas-and-a-cream-sauce-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">pasta recipes</a> (we have our own modifications)<br />
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Where it hurts: tired feet, heart burn, and my belly is getting bigger and tighter (rolling over and bending over have become quite the challenge).<br />
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Strange symptoms: DROOLING. Not, like, while I'm having a conversation or taking care of a client, but all night long while I sleep. SO sexy.<br />
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<br />Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-1194141206784325832013-07-18T13:00:00.000-05:002013-07-18T13:00:01.357-05:00Gestation: 30 weeks<br />
Apparently I'm supposed to keep everyone in the know as to the doneness of my fetus. How doughy is it in the middle? Will it give me salmonella? What should the interior temperature be?<div>
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Well folks, we're currently at 30 out of 40 weeks (extra weeks ≠ extra credit), or 75% for the statisticians of the world. That means my baby is getting a C. Average, hooray! Just what I was hoping for.</div>
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It's funny to me how people will say "well how many months is that?" because I have no fucking clue. That's like me telling you that I'm 5'9" and you asking me to convert it to metric for you.... Everything about pregnancy is measured by weeks - heck, they can measure the size of the head during an ultrasound and give you weeks and DAYS of how big your baby is measuring - so I have no idea why the idea of months still hangs around.</div>
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I guess I'm also a person who operates in weeks just because of my job. Pixie cut? Come back in four weeks. Bob? More like six. Long hair? Jesus, I'm satisfied if you manage to come back to get your crispy crusty ends cut more than three times in a calendar year.</div>
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Wasn't this post supposed to be about my pregnancy? Oh yeah.... Here are some specs. I have no idea what you actually want to know...</div>
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Weeks: 30</div>
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Months: Fuck off</div>
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Stuff that's done: Hahahahaha</div>
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Stuff that's not done: Yes.</div>
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What I'm craving: Margaritas (on the rocks, no salt, extra tequila pls thx), turkey sandwiches, watermelon, salad... anything cold sounds pretty great in the heat.</div>
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Where it hurts: Legs and headaches</div>
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What it's like to be roundhouse kicked in the baby maker: totally awesome. No really, I seriously love every jazzercise moment, and every "mom, leave me alone!" elbow nudge.</div>
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What flavor is the baby? An unofficial survey shows that 75% think it's pink.</div>
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Names: Tony Danza is what we're calling him/her. Actual baby names are still totally up in the air, and we won't be sharing anyway.</div>
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Nursery plans: Navy blue & white with a <i>slight</i> nod in the Nautical direction</div>
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OK, that's all for now! Another update on Dr's appointment day, which will be in two weeks....</div>
Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-79388740716842891412013-07-17T22:05:00.005-05:002013-07-17T22:05:57.852-05:00Return of the Mac.I was hassled by a friend this weekend that I need to be a "mommy blogger." It was honestly something I had kind of rolled my eyes at, until she said it was because she thought I was a good writer... and I really appreciated the sentiment. I think sometimes "mommy blogs" can get a bit indulgent: they become another form of attention-getting for you and your blessed, perfect child. This is exactly what I DON'T want.<br />
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That all being said, I'm going to give bloggery another go... for my own sanity, for a way to tell some of the <i>other</i> stories, and for something to do during maternity leave (as I'm sure I'll be SO BORED).<br />
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So here goes.<br />
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xo,<br />
Traycina<br />
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Disclaimer: this could very well be the last post you ever see. I'm not so good with follow through.<br />
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Random tangent: I MISS typing! Doesn't that sound so weird?! I don't exactly have to compose a lot of emails or memos at my job, but I've always been fast at it, and damn it feels good. Especially when I get all worked up and throw a few expletives in there... That's right, this will be a mommy blog where you'll frequently encounter the word FUCK. High five!Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-6281248073726642312012-03-07T23:35:00.001-06:002012-03-07T23:37:04.336-06:00The soothing scent of Acetone.<div>
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I gotta tell you, painting my nails is like weekly therapy for me. So much so that I'm actually writing a blog post about it. But that's mostly because my blog seemed sad, and I literally just finished up my paint job.<br />
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My usual process involves donning some sweat pants (none of that VS Pink shit, I mean real, grey, drawstring waist, purchased at the U of M Sports store and say "Gopher Wrestling" on one leg), cozying up on my recliner, and watching some cable TV, God love it. I use my skills as a whack-a-doo perfectionist to ensure a perfectly executed manicure. It's like my own zen rock garden.... raking the sand....</div>
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One of the best parts is the ability to sit and do nothing with very good reason! I can't mess up my manicure! </div>
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Errrr.... so that's as far as I've thought this post through. Huh. Anyone watching Conan right now? Hilarious! </div>
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Here are my favorite nail polishes! That's a good idea!!</div>
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CND Stickey Base Coat</div>
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CND Super Shiney Top Coat</div>
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OPI Vampsterdam</div>
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OPI Skull & Glossbones (discontinued... buzzkill)</div>
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OPI Barefoot In Barcelona</div>
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OPI I Vant To Be A Lonestar</div>
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....and without further ado, here is tonight's manicure via iPhone3 (the crappy one without a flash)</div>
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This is OPI Play The Peonies and ESSIE Set In Stones on my ring finger. Swear to God, I get more comments on my wedding ring when I wear sparkly silver glitter on that nail.</div>
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Wow, this was truly boring. Sorry folks. I dedicate this post to Colin Mayr, because I doubt it he made it this far.</div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-70043951505518049572012-02-26T00:15:00.004-06:002012-02-26T00:15:40.834-06:002012, you say?Apparently I'm 56 days late for my "hooray, it's a new year and a new me!" post. Surprise surprise. Still old me.<br />
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Life isn't particularly exciting -- my reasons for not blogging don't involve super cool adventures/activities, and it certainly wasn't any sort of internet protest (all the cool people seem to be eschewing social media, ironically announcing their <strike>superiority</strike> silence prior to shutting down). I have, however, been indulging in some good hibernation season activities, both of which make me feel the slightest bit high-brow and snooty! HAHA!! <br />
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Have you, like all the fanciest of folk, watched Downton Abbey yet? Because I totally have. I'm the most smartest after watching it. And it's like so awesome. I feel like I need to follow it up by reading Tolstoy and Beowulf, and listening to NPR and other hoity toity stuff like that. <br />
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Oh wait, I don't even know how to spell hoity toity. Hmphf.<br />
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In all seriousness, it's a fabulous drama full of intrigue. I think if you like Mad Men you'll love this -- period costumes and settings, social commentaries that make you wonder about life in those times, and a healthy dose of "oh no he didn't!" and "She's <strike>hookin up with</strike> being courted by who?" Watch the show. Season 1 (only 7 eps) is on Netflix Instant, and Season 2 (just finished! 7 eps) is on PBS.org for free thru March 6th! Easy peasy.<br />
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My other indulgence has been reading. I read four books in two weeks. And you might think me an intellectual. I read the first three in six days and thought <i>myself</i> an intellectual.... until I opened the fourth and found that it WASN'T in large print (and hadn't been housed in the "young adult" section of the book store). Here I'd thought I was some amazingly fast reader... Books 1-3 were <u>The Hunger Games</u> series (super addicting, loved the story, could have been written better) and #4 was <u>The Help</u> (perfect in almost every way). Read them both. C'mon, it only takes two weeks!<br />
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The Hunger Games was a series I'd heard about through various people, but mostly from those who'd read Harry Potter. They said "Oh if you liked Harry Potter, you'll love this series! And they're making it a movie!" Honestly, the fact that it was going to come out as a movie (in 4 weeks, no less!) was quite the motivator -- you see, I JUST read the HP series this fall and always seem to be the last to find out about good books, often after they're made into movies, so I was happy to be ahead of the game on this! Don't miss your chance!!! You have 4 weeks to read the first book (which took me less than 24 hrs). Don't let anyone spoil any of the story and try to avoid the trailers as it's much more fun to create in your own mind :-)<br />
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Also noteworthy on this: Brian loved them. He's a big fan of post-apocalyptic dystopian society stories, and while they may not tell you on the dust jacket (perhaps not appealing to young adults?), that's exactly what this story is. I do wish that the author had fleshed out the stories a bit more and made them longer. I think my smarty pants brain could have handled some smaller print.<br />
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Did I mention I also had lots of glasses of wine during this period? Because I did.<br />
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<br /></div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-63417457812576400962011-12-29T23:55:00.000-06:002011-12-29T23:55:36.626-06:00What are you doing New Years<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is exactly what I want for the end/start of a year! Woop woop!!! Oh wait... no thanks.<br />
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We had originally planned on heading to Stevens Point, WI to a cabin with friends Joel & Kelsey for a fun filled weekend of hot tubbing, good food, lots of funny moments and our fair share of alcoholic beverages. But now we're not.<br />
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INSERT SAD FACE.<br />
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Because of our need for budgeting with home-buying on the horizon, we opted out of this magnificent event. And we're totally missing out. I hope they don't have any fun without us.<br />
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Instead, we are partaking in the repeat of one of my favorite NYE ever, the Adult Pajama Party at Kate & Tyge's. I don't think the recreation will surpass the greatness of the first (NYE 2009) but I think it'll be pretty awesome. The pajamas were totally my idea, btw. Because I'm a lazy motherf*cker who loves a good pair of flannel pants. Kate's planning a "Vices" theme with stations set up -- shots at one, sweets at another, cigars on the deck, hookers in the guest room..... could be a good time!<br />
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Possibly one of the greatest parts of this NYE is the fact that I TOOK SATURDAY OFF!!!!! ***head explodes***<br />
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Who wants to give me a high five? Aw, thanks Olive!<br />
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<br />Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-44166388628849770452011-12-29T22:52:00.000-06:002011-12-29T22:52:41.855-06:00Say hello to my lil' frien.%9$#&(*$#%)8&)<br />
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Oh hey! I wrote a blog post and it disappeared. <br />
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%69*#&$(*)&(*&<br />
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So, what's new with you?<br />
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To the point. I have a list on my right menu of blogs that I follow. Most of them are people I know, one of them is ridiculously awesome, and it happens to be the one on the very bottom that last updated TWO YEARS AGO. I am Lemish.... well, SHE is Lemish, and she is my favorite!<br />
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Lemish is a bff that I met a few years ago in a really dorky way. Let's skip that. She is one of my favorite people on Earth, and I demand you read her hilarious insanity and encourage her to return to the internetz. I shouldn't even say that as if she's left because she's RIGHT THERE. Every day. Hi Lemish. Wave to the nice people. I know you're watching. <br />
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Lemish posted this to me a few weeks back regarding my own blogging:<br />
<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">"So eventually there will be dinosaurs on your dinosaur tour, right? Replace the first dinosaur with blog posts, and the second dinosaur with blog. Oh, and get rid of tour. Also, dinosaurs."</span></span></i></h6><br />
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Here's where you should start: <a href="http://iamlemish.blogspot.com/2009/01/ocd-spells-p-and-cream-soda-bottles.html" target="_blank">this post</a> about funny stuff. Or <a href="http://iamlemish.blogspot.com/2008/12/things-of-which-i-am-afraid-simple-list.html" target="_blank">this post</a> about Jesus and dinosaurs and other stuff. <br />
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Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Lemish<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZ5wz_HacZChG8H6-yVhBQeUoeIrro_Yaj7PLzJpMIUE_ZFcECrcppFHhDQSi5F1Ry-z1QrktgFKneGtwtH0cZiNrPuLXkvg8WMR_exLoaQl9Dy6HVvtgkZOuysCJ77RQCGoQfu9WAFI/s400/lastunicorn2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZ5wz_HacZChG8H6-yVhBQeUoeIrro_Yaj7PLzJpMIUE_ZFcECrcppFHhDQSi5F1Ry-z1QrktgFKneGtwtH0cZiNrPuLXkvg8WMR_exLoaQl9Dy6HVvtgkZOuysCJ77RQCGoQfu9WAFI/s320/lastunicorn2.JPG" width="219" /></a></div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-39122082137789455442011-12-26T18:44:00.000-06:002011-12-29T23:23:43.506-06:00Obligatory Christmas Post.Christmas happened, and now it's over. And I'm kinda... sorta... <i>glad</i>. I've busted my arse for work, hosted inlaws, attended two separate Christmas gatherings and churched it up. I can't tell you how good it feels to hang out on the couch with my husband and not do a thing! (Well, we're watching LOTR, so that counts as something!) <br />
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All dramatics aside, we had a great Christmas. Lots of family, lots of fun and a moving and beautiful church service (summary below). Here are some pictures, all from my iPhone (the old kind), and all but one at my Uncle Russ' farm in Lonsdale, MN. Rest in peace, Russ.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Basilica of St Mary, Minneapolis - a gorgeous midnight Mass!! It started with the choir singing our engagement song and wedding processional, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WSbq3TCcd0" target="_blank">Ave Maria (Franz Biebl)</a>, which made us both tear up. The church started dark but all in attendance held a candle and shared the light with those surrounding. But the combination of the choir, the organ and the brass was what truly lit the cavernous church. Father Bauer spoke saying something along the lines of "Whatever brings you here, whether it's tradition, personal need, curiousity or just to appease a family member WELCOME HOME." </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Farm - Lonsdale, MN</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5DkNsMm9kJRLn5ARGobS9ZDMwDC-1_dCxZv9UYWTI7-HwPxQ_s_cvzwko9IxN3KAglwoapsMqrhyphenhyphen1fxY63hrwurVmOcDa1IDuE1Pk4NJOJfGjJ6lzGut36aB-EEqBAT78cVWTK4_87ype/s640/blogger-image-513064838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5DkNsMm9kJRLn5ARGobS9ZDMwDC-1_dCxZv9UYWTI7-HwPxQ_s_cvzwko9IxN3KAglwoapsMqrhyphenhyphen1fxY63hrwurVmOcDa1IDuE1Pk4NJOJfGjJ6lzGut36aB-EEqBAT78cVWTK4_87ype/s640/blogger-image-513064838.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This statue of Mary holding a rosary has been there for decades. It's both adorable (she's in a little house!) and meaningful, and what a flashback it was to visit her. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We all abandoned the bonfire to enjoy the gorgeous sunset -- a 45 degree day in Minnesota on Christmas? Lovely.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzVvMWKjlqRB5UaiAarcWlrN4PkHmNrabflpwUibvLc70RY86QzaQO0jpsHuAuA3QqmY4h-oLvhNyT5HpuQSkiIoo_LrIDQIa_uHSqTq_JAQDU6lqGEQ2wM8FHiTW01yrWxM_Ij4d5K_3/s640/blogger-image--100513585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzVvMWKjlqRB5UaiAarcWlrN4PkHmNrabflpwUibvLc70RY86QzaQO0jpsHuAuA3QqmY4h-oLvhNyT5HpuQSkiIoo_LrIDQIa_uHSqTq_JAQDU6lqGEQ2wM8FHiTW01yrWxM_Ij4d5K_3/s640/blogger-image--100513585.jpg" /></a></div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-67118717622765924812011-12-19T01:15:00.000-06:002011-12-19T01:17:53.946-06:00It's a funny story....<i>:::sobs:::</i><br />
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So, I lost my wedding ring.<br />
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Yep. <br />
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I recently concluded that wearing my ring is a major pain in the ass whenever I try to put on gloves at work before applying or washing out a hair color, which is to say VERY OFTEN. Every time I would pull one on my left hand, my <i>ENORMOUS DIAMOND</i> would slice a major hole in it, I'd be too busy to get a new one, I'd end up with a big brown color blotch on my hand. I looked like I had the bubonic plague (or perhaps had been wearing the Resurrection Stone a la Dumbledore. No? Sorry).<br />
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Then came Thursday. In a whirlwind with my last client (she's family, love her, but her hair was a bit of a project that night), I'd removed my ring and put it either on my station (we have a tool tray that we use so we don't accidentally knock things over) OR in my pocket. That day we were allowed to wear jeans for a special charity event. I thought I'd put it in my jeans.... or had I?<br />
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Friday morning, I went to get ready for work and noticed I didn't have it... looked in the usual places and concluded that I'd just set it at work and would find it there smiling, sparkling, happy to see me. It wasn't. So then I told myself that it was at home, happy, content, waiting for my return. It wasn't. I told my husband my dilemma and he, like me, was teetering between "I'm sure it'll turn up!" and "HOLY SHIT." He looked in my usual places and once again, we decided it must be at work.<br />
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I showed up for work Saturday with a knot in my stomach and a confused left hand. I checked my station, knowing I wouldn't find it, and it truly then hit me: my ring was L O S T. I had to reach out - I went into our breakroom and wrote on our white board "Urgent: Has anyone seen my wedding ring?! -Traycina" and left it at that. My coworkers freaked out, asking me about it all day. "Is this a joke?" "Did you find it?" "I bet it's in the laundry!" "OMG! What are you going to DO?!" (gotta love the ones who ask questions like that in a stressful situation.) I even had a coworker kind of awkwardly try to hide it from my husband when he stopped in later, not knowing that I'd told him. She's the one I'll ask to help hide a dead body someday ;-)<br />
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We came home after my super long day and my spirits were pretty low. I'd forget about it for a few minutes and then remember and get REALLY sad. We decided to check the laundry again, but this time go through it SUPER thoroughly. We pulled out every item one by one, shook it, checked pockets, and shook it again.<br />
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FUNNY SIDE STORY: 2 years ago, B lost his ring in our last apartment. It was gone. We searched, same deal, didn't find it, ordered a replacement after about 2 weeks. Mere days after ordering it, he finds the ring in the pocket of a clean pair of dress pants, which had been washed, dried, and hanging upside down in the closet for that entire time..... so we were meticulous about the laundry, as you can imagine.<br />
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We didn't find my ring, though. I kept trying to find that glimmer of "I'm sure it'll turn up!" but it was dim. I said a prayer to Saint Anthony, because my Catholic guilt made me. My rings, after all, had been blessed by a priest in a Catholic church! Shouldn't there be some sort of tracking device?<br />
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B tried to cheer me up today, which was nice -- making jokes, being goofy. We turned on Love Actually and wrapped presents, getting a little Christmas spirit going. B, standing behind me, starts to whine about his hands hurting. He has horribly dry hands from being a big hand-washer, and was complaining about how cracked they were. I started to lecture him, looked down at his leprous knuckles, and saw a sparkly diamond ring...<br />
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<i>:::sobs:::</i><br />
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He found it clanking around in the dryer (my husband does laundry, and no you can't have him). Once again, he saves me from myself. I cried, he cried, it was like a second proposal (except without the choir and the rainbows (yep, I had those at my proposal because I'm AWESOME)).<br />
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I said yes :-)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b40/katematch/00%20Knot%20Bio/2008-05-18WeddingStuff023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b40/katematch/00%20Knot%20Bio/2008-05-18WeddingStuff023.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-44057458997476973822011-12-14T00:25:00.000-06:002011-12-14T00:32:49.582-06:00This.One of my favorite bloggers going through something I know all too well:<br />
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Hyperbole and a Half presents "<a href="http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2011/10/adventures-in-depression.html" target="_blank">Adventures in Depression</a>"<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(Don't worry, there are cartoons to make it less sad)</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wgeoftKMFgc/Tqm2oRTxeWI/AAAAAAAAGbg/HHDVxYobk2Y/s640/sad35alt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wgeoftKMFgc/Tqm2oRTxeWI/AAAAAAAAGbg/HHDVxYobk2Y/s400/sad35alt.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And if you like her, you simply must read this HILARIOUS and totally identifiable <a href="http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2010/06/this-is-why-ill-never-be-adult.html" target="_blank">post about being an adult</a> and<a href="http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2010/10/god-of-cake.html" target="_blank"> this about the joy of cake</a>.</div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-86622610975090920332011-12-14T00:13:00.000-06:002011-12-14T00:13:45.900-06:00The science of belief.<i>"Our virtues and our failings are inseparable, like force and matter. When they separate, man is no more."</i> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">- Nikola Tesla</span><br />
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I love this quote. While geeking out with my husband and watching some super cool History Channel shows, we heard this. It spoke to me.... crazy Tesla spoke to me (a fellow-crazy). I love the idea that we are not able to be one without the other. We, as imperfect human creatures, are expected both to be our "sparkly best" (for some reason that description stuck in my head and I could NOT come up with anything else), and also to fail at it. And that's great because we fail quite frequently!<br />
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Brian and I do really love to geek out. Some of our favorite topics of conversation include science, physics, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphysics" target="_blank">Metaphysics</a> and religion/spirituality. It's one of the things about my husband that immediately attracted me to him. He understood and shared my scientific and logical mind, and the very sure opinion that science and discovery bring us closer to God and not further away. He operates more in the philosophical side of this, and I in the psychological, but it sparks some great conversations! <br />
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So tonight, when scrolling through the tv listings and seeing History's "Proving God", we both looked at each other with a little glimmer in our eyes :-) Brian, in fact, immediately shut his laptop (we were co-computing as good married couples do), situated on the couch and focused ALL attention on the show. I was floored! Even Badger games are viewed with the laptop open....<br />
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The show went through various aspects of this concept, but one area of this subject that I've always found fascinating is the neurophysiological study of how our mind believes. A book that I read years ago (when Brian and I first started dating, actually!) called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-God-Wont-Go-Away/dp/0345440331" target="_blank"><u>Why God Won't Go Away: Brain Science and the Biology of Belief </u></a>outlined many of these same concepts, showing the effects that spirituality had on our biological functions. <br />
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I think it's very enlightening to sit down and really ponder these mysteries. If you're someone that prays or meditates (even if just in yoga class), how does it make you feel? How does it affect your body? And if you think of that physiological change, what sort of affect does it's enemy, STRESS have on the body? We've all heard (and felt) that stress is bad for your health and exacerbates many conditions, but how many times have they told you that the best way to counter stress is through spirituality? <br />
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I think we've all lost concept of the word PEACE and what that means. Inner peace, outer peace, rest in peace, "peace be with you".... it's become nothing but words words blah blah words. My God! Isn't the season of Christmas the time when we send out cards wishing each other peace, but feel it the very LEAST?! As someone who suffers from some MAJOR anxiety (more on that in a blog post that I've written many times (adhd) but never posted), I have my own tug-of-war going with Peace. It's as if I actually have an angel and a devil on my shoulders, but one is my "shiny happy people mode" and the other is "motherfucking crazy person mode." So I guess I'm not in any position to truly advise others on how to find Peace (try soft rock). We need to be aware of it's affect on us, and how we can bring it into our own lives and help to bring it to others. Lord knows we could all use a little more peacefulness.<br />
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More on the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-16158374" target="_blank">other science-y stuff</a> another day. This turned into a hippy dippy peace and love fest, which wasn't at all where I was going with it :-) <br />
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And now for the thrilling conclusion: Brian just came over to me to say goodnight and said that he'd like to leave me with a joke! About meditating! Oh good, what a great end to my story! Except that it's SO totally dorky<i> and I didn't get the punch line :-) </i>All great jokes have to be explained, right??.....<i>.</i><br />
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"A Buddhist monk goes into the dentist, and finds out he needs a root canal. 'As long as you don't give me anesthetic, Doctor' the monk says. The dentist argues, 'My God man, you'll be in terrible pain! Are you sure?!' The monk quietly and surely says 'Most certainly. I'll just transcend dental medication.'" [See: <a href="http://transcendental%20meditation/" target="_blank">Transcendental Meditation</a>]<br />
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Hahaha! <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(eyeroll)</span>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-8495778297766218362011-12-06T23:48:00.000-06:002011-12-06T23:48:33.614-06:00Let's get real, shall we?This makeup video is amazing. If you've ever suffered from acne or a generally poor complexion, or if you've ever had an insecurity, this is both educational and inspiring. How brave, to put yourself and your biggest insecurity out for the internet to judge.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ex33wtqnNz8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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As someone who has acne-prone skin, there's a point of acceptance in life that you will only leave the house with full foundation on. And it fucking SUCKS. You don't get to do the natural, effortless, "I only need mascara and lip gloss" routine. Instead, you get the "oh my GOD, there's too much natural lighting here" or "I wonder if they'll judge me for wearing makeup at the cabin" or "gee, I hope my disguise doesn't melt off my face by the end of the workday/date/party."<br />
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It's not like other body insecurities that you can cover with clothing -- unless a burqa is your thing -- because it's really hard to hide your face and people are so judgmental about it! Do you judge if you see a girl in a long sleeve shirt? Perhaps she's got a major complex about giggly arms. (Or <i>jiggly</i>... yeah that's it.) Believe me, I wish I could get away with a bikini's amount of makeup, but the burqa-coverage is how it's gotta be.<br />
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So add that to my list -- what are your insecurities?Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-18451049427409524592011-12-01T20:06:00.001-06:002011-12-01T20:08:05.656-06:00Thanks, Life!So I was just bitching the other day about how hard I'm working at my job to try to get to my next step..... Well, guess what kids? I made it!! They gave me the good gnus Monday and I'm totes excited. <br />
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It's not a price increase yet (they don't do that until you hit the fourth level) but rather a commission percentage increase to the third level. This means I get an extra 5% of what the client is charged. Example:<br />
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1. Client pays $110 for cut color (not an actual price quote btw). <br />
2. Salon takes out product charge for cost of color, styling products, electricity, other overhead of $10. <br />
3. Salon & stylist each take their percentage of the remaining $100. I'm now at 50% which would mean I make $50 out of the $110. <br />
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Are you perchance surprised to know that a stylist doesn't take home the amount you pay? I get looks of shock every time I tell someone that I get $9.90 (before taxes) from my $27 women's haircuts. Well... now I'll get a whopping $11! Yay!!! (Important note: we get every dime of our tips, so no need to worry that The Man is taking part of those.)<br />
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So anyway, thanks to those of you that come to see me, whether yearly or monthly, and for sending in family and friends my way! I'm so grateful for the support and hope y'all have enjoyed your cuts / colors :-)<br />
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xoxo<br />
Traycina<br />
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P.S. First time posting a photo through my iPhone blogger app.... Hope it looks ok!<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24LiEyNVxX-cwdYEdr_WhQcH0NWDhkOyeFPBk4wzXi1Fq2GpAQ0QBH5EPGZZw1fek294fgiGJ_0K0h0VbLdQtMDyoey7hkzX1biGndvrEd0BbaULfIEpKlUEkazsDwdcPx5f5sqa367Rr/s640/blogger-image--1962350736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24LiEyNVxX-cwdYEdr_WhQcH0NWDhkOyeFPBk4wzXi1Fq2GpAQ0QBH5EPGZZw1fek294fgiGJ_0K0h0VbLdQtMDyoey7hkzX1biGndvrEd0BbaULfIEpKlUEkazsDwdcPx5f5sqa367Rr/s640/blogger-image--1962350736.jpg" /></a></div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-25975431144083915552011-11-23T17:35:00.000-06:002011-11-23T17:35:37.499-06:00Words blah blah words blah.If you couldn't tell from the heading of this post, there isn't really a true purpose to this train of thought. And this train is prone to stalling mid-journey. So watch yourself.<br />
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Maybe this should be another bullet point post! I really love bullet points. I'm obsessed with them. They're all I think about. <br />
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1. My husband is leaving me for Thanksgiving. He has the week off and is heading to see his folks because it's the nice thing to do. They're coming up here for Christmas anyway, so it's a fair trade, but I have to stay here and work tonight until 9pm and Friday at 9am, so no trip for me. I'll head to my cousin's solo, which will still be fun. But..... this coupled with the fact that I've stopped wearing my ring to work (it cuts open my gloves when I color), and that Brian will go back down to Madison for his extended family Christmas alone will certainly make folks wonder about our marriage. Ha!<br />
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2. I'm super pumped about our NYE plans (sorry Melinda - avert your eyes!). We met our new friends Kelsey & Joel last fall when they moved in downstairs in our duplex. Being the SUPER extroverted people they are (they're like puppies!), they just knocked on the door and asked if we wanted to hang out and we've been friends since! Well, K&J decided to scope out a rental cabin with a hot tub in Stevens Point, WI, so the four of us along with their friends Tim & Kendra will head out there for the weekend! It's going to be so fun!!! They all love to cook, and we're getting there, so we're planning to do some seriously delicious meals, and some serious drinking. So no babies until 2012 ;-)<br />
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3. It's nearly official that I'll be getting myself a sweet Macbook Pro for Christmas this year! HOORAY!!!! I expect personal tutoring sessions (Erin). I haven't purchased a computer EVER, so this is big news. Any advice for the buying process? And I plan to buy at Best Buy - is that kosher??<br />
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4. I'm trying SO HARD to reach my next level through work, but it's been majorly frustrating! Basically, they track how many people I have booked with me each week that asked to see me - we call them request clients. I'm working toward 25 a week and need to have 25 or more for 6 weeks in any 8 week period. I was SO CLOSE this past weekend. I booked in early and late on Saturday, and would have been willing to work over my lunch....BUT some lady cancelled last minute on Saturday and came in on Monday instead. She let slip that it was because she wanted to sleep in..... great. So if you have anyone in the area that needs a new hairdresser (I take men women and kids too!), send them my way please!<br />
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Alright, it's come to the end of our show. Sorry for the super random tangeants... think of it as buffet-style! I hope that you're out there reading this, and enjoying my overdue return to the keyboard. <br />
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xoxo<br />
Traycina<br />
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P.S. Any ideas for things I should write about?Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-13400101431867007472011-11-21T00:22:00.000-06:002011-11-21T00:22:05.599-06:00Smart phone, genius glovesUm, WOW. Don't ask me how they work because I don't know.<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartouchgloves.com/" target="_blank">Isotoner SmarTouch Gloves</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://amominredhighheels.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/smarTouch.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="400px" src="http://amominredhighheels.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/smarTouch.gif" width="386px" /></a></div>These super fancy, magical gloves work on touch screen devices that usually respond to body heat. And the wonderful thing is, you don't have to look like a hobo! (I'm lookin' at you, fingerless gloves.)<br />
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I picked mine up at Herbergers where they were quite nicely discounted. They do run pretty tight (or "fitted") so me and my man hands stopped in the men's department to find the same cool gloves. And you don't have to get the "TRON-trim" color... I got basic black. They also have leather if you're classy.<br />
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Another fabulous feature to note: the grippy palms and fingers! And it's not done through a thick layer of leather, but rather an interesting webbing of.... let's call it rubber strings... or let's not. Here, how about a photo!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ouig1maSc3ihRRZxj6k4vA-qonTzb131htBStvktaAAAIDcYJuzDf2X4k5I9hmyOAyFtNbewQWwbKWKL8PjMkb5x9l3_-P3Pp-ofId2OItSO2VzWwCOLiDVUr4WrGQN-Cr-1zys-FWpp/s1600/prbm2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="163px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ouig1maSc3ihRRZxj6k4vA-qonTzb131htBStvktaAAAIDcYJuzDf2X4k5I9hmyOAyFtNbewQWwbKWKL8PjMkb5x9l3_-P3Pp-ofId2OItSO2VzWwCOLiDVUr4WrGQN-Cr-1zys-FWpp/s320/prbm2.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Totally rubber strings</em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So that's my good story for the day. If you have any sort of touch screen device, these are majorly handy gloves. Saves me a winter of using my nose to dial my husband, that's for sure.</div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-77952395028995045822011-11-20T23:46:00.000-06:002011-11-20T23:46:26.424-06:00Overused word of the day.....OBSESSED<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I've come to hate the word. If you're truly obsessed with something, it's all you think about. So how is it then that so many people are "obsessed" with fifteen things at a time?! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This little obsession with being obsessed seems to have found increased popularity with the cool new website Pinterest (omg I'm obsessed with it). Have you tried it? It's a delightful site where people post things that catch their attention as if to a bulletin board; fashion, home decor/crafts and really delicious recipes seem to be the most "repinned" items. All that greatness aside, people will post a picture (or five) of boots and on every one of them say "OMG I'm obsessed with boots right now." But we shant blame Pinterest for this.... the problem started long before. Rachel Zoe definitely contributed.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Here's a tidbit for you: the key to being interesting, whether in conversation or in writing, is variance. There are so many ways to convey your thoughts, opinions or stories without being so repetetive. Oh hey, look at this cool guide (ironically found on Pinterest).</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauwm3v1IyYr8q4rcvE_CjisgR8CPvyy4NsbfLDKh26I9z9dlg34EaDEp96dvHYlWAFcBiMympTsuYXVxpBJlccoO87ho3ZhPWwaP-sAxpSIzm6_70Z5cb52XUSGagGdSCGLGH9RD9yRCD/s1600/KatrinaWords.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauwm3v1IyYr8q4rcvE_CjisgR8CPvyy4NsbfLDKh26I9z9dlg34EaDEp96dvHYlWAFcBiMympTsuYXVxpBJlccoO87ho3ZhPWwaP-sAxpSIzm6_70Z5cb52XUSGagGdSCGLGH9RD9yRCD/s640/KatrinaWords.jpg" width="492px" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">"Express yourself." -Madonna</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-48432049269243926742011-11-16T22:51:00.000-06:002011-11-16T22:51:23.406-06:00That's right.Yes, I AM back to blogging. I've been desperate to get back here lately. I miss you, internetz!<br />
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I know some people have real purpose to their blogs (which is maybe why they write more than semi-annually?) but I'm kind of a special snowflake of a person and therefore a special snowflake of a blog! You're not getting housey stuff, or recipe stuff, or family stuff.... This isn't one of those (weird) blogs where people post pictures of every outfit they wear (and you should be thankful because I'm wearing flannel and a sweatshirt right now....and a scrunchie in my hair (yes I said scrunchie)). <br />
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Here's the latest: <br />
1. I love being a hairstylist! My job is great, but a little surprising....<br />
2. We're still renting a place we really like in NE Mpls, but we're considering the "great" world of home ownership<br />
3. Praise little baby Jesus my husband got a promotion! Going back to school at 27 cost a lot of money and put a lot of our dreams on hold (see #2, 4), so this really really needed to happen for us to move forward and get on track (and my career seems to be a slow-to-grow kind of gig)<br />
4. The baby train is en route our direction, but just ask Erin about how fast trains go.... not sure if we'll decide to board the train or get ourselves into a house first<br />
5. I really need a new computer and kinda want a Mac, though I've never had an Apple computer before - anyone have some advice? <br />
6. I'd never read them before but I finished ALL seven Harry Potter books in like two months! And I LOVE THEM<br />
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OK, super good story. More bloggery to come, I promise, so keep checking back.<br />
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xo,<br />
TraycinaTraycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-59231003349565011592011-04-20T10:23:00.000-05:002011-04-20T10:23:40.494-05:00Things I wish I could do: Sewing<div>This is a new feature! Instead of being another one of those how-to blogs, I've decided to write a "teach me how-to".....?</div><br />
<div></div>So today, my chosen magical skill is sewing. I wish I could sew. And also, the word sew is kind of weird, considering it's pronounciation. Anyway... I totally wish I could sew stuff! I often walk through places like Bed Bath & Beyond and, when unable to find a shower curtain that meets my needs, throw out the "if only I could <em>sew</em>." <br />
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<div>Here are a few more examples:</div><br />
<div>- Hemming pants. I can't buy regulars because they're too short, but sometimes the longs are ridiculously long! Hence my need.</div><br />
<div>- Taking in dress shirts for Brian - dude has XL shoulders and neck, with L arms and waist. </div><br />
<div>- Crafting pillows, curtains, other home decor. This craving surfaces quite often.</div><br />
<div>- Someday baby bedding - that stuff is ridiculously expensive for seemingly no reason. </div><br />
<div>- And on that note, some baby clothes! I'm not going to pretend that I could manage to sew clothes for myself, but making a little dress for a 2 year old is probably not that hard.</div><br />
<div>- Sewing leads well into other crafty things.</div><br />
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<div>Wasn't that exciting? OK, maybe not.</div><br />
<div></div><br />
<div></div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-15908116016071637402011-03-23T23:10:00.000-05:002011-03-23T23:13:42.027-05:00A common theme amongst MN bloggers today.....Snow sucks. It totally fucking sucks. And yes, we are all OVER IT. <br />
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You know what else I'm over? Living in my current place. My car was broken into on Sunday night and the $30 worth of stuff they took was apparently worth the $226 cost to replace my window, and the additional damage to my door frame. Add this to the two snow emergency tows and accompanying parking tickets and the not-budgeted-for-category "things happening outside" has cost us a good chunk of change.<br />
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Then there's a small.... very, very small.... issue of not having enough space. We have plenty of stuff, and a big creepy basement to stash it in, but that will give the stalker/serial killers something to hide behind (TOO MUCH CRIMINAL MINDS). Plus, it makes stuff smell basementy and cramming your stuff into a hole just makes your piles grow and makes you use LESS of it. AKA hoarding (but I NEED those candy wrapperssss!!!).<br />
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Not-so-lastly (and this is kind of ridiculous), my bathroom leaves a little something to be desired. Or a big something. Made of whatever - grandiose granite or mediocre formica. I'm talking a countertop here, folks. A pedestal sink is no way to a woman's heart, let me tell you what. Especially if said woman could fill an entire room with her beauty junkie habit. And boyyyyy could she ever. But we're back to me. So there's this sink with no counter, and an inset medicine cabinet for a mirror that, if standing up straight, displays from my chin to my chest. This doesn't exactly serve me well when it comes to getting ready "from the chin up," if you will. "How then" you ask, "do you look so <em>amazing</em> every day, K?" Very good question. I wake up looking gorgeous, pull on some pants and head out the door. Apparently topless. No no, you see I've made some creative arrangements..... my hair stuff (it's a tower) sits atop my husband's dresser in our "guestroom" (videogame room), and my makeup is displayed prominently at our dining table. But not the whole table. Only half. (That makes it better, right?)<br />
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And there, folks, you have an honest-to-goodness CRISIS. Won't you please <a href="http://www.redcross.org/">help</a> those in need? Kidding, that link goes to the Red Cross. Please be generous, as the earthquake/tsunami (actual crisis) has caused millions of very vain people to be without bathroom counters to put their makeup and hair products on (and who are now extra crabby because they don't look as pretty). And for the non-vain people too. Give $10 extra if you laughed.<br />
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That's all, folks. Thanks for keeping me on your Google Reader after like 234 months of not posting.Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-22897015015561634942010-11-09T21:20:00.000-06:002010-11-09T23:24:40.727-06:00I'm going to complain about how I hate people that complain....I'm probably not the only one in the world who has ever been annoyed by someone else's Facebook status. And not even in the sense that someone has been passive-aggressively referring to something I did, or insulting my opinions or beliefs. I'm talking about the no-holds-barred COMPLAINING.<br /><br />You know the people - they do it on Facebook, they do it in person, they talk to you on the phone and spend 10 minutes bitching in your ear. Ever the pessimists, they'll instantly see negative in anything. The world is out to get me!!!<br /><br />I was a bit inspired by <a href="http://www.michaelricheson.com/blog/2010/10/4/comfort-at-all-costs.html">this recently shared blog post</a> about being <em>Comfortable</em> to share it, and also my thoughts about our comfort and often the complaining that comes right along with it. The truth of the matter comes down to this: we have very little to really complain about, but we are also more "heard" these days, what with our abilities to so instantly share our thoughts with the masses.<br /><br />So here's a question for you..... if people are "hearing" you more now, what exactly are you saying?? Are you a facebook user? Probably. Go back through your status updates just to see what you've been saying lately. Regardless of what you've been saying, you could probably benefit from a little rose-colored-glasses therapy.<br /><br />Here's my challenge list:<br /><br />1. Say something you love about your job, coworkers, or even your <a href="http://beautydesignlife.blogspot.com/2010/11/friday-favorites.html">commute</a>.<br /><br />2. Get excited about 2-3 things about winter -- a new coat, hot chocolate, Christmas decorations, fresh snow when it sparkles, going sledding with a kid....<br /><br />3. If you hate -or are just bored with- your wardrobe or accessories, arrange an exchange with a friend or 10.<br /><br />4. Pick 5 things about yourself that you like, and similarly, learn to accept a compliment!!<br /><br />5. <a href="http://realestate.yahoo.com/promo/americas-most-relaxed-cities.html">Read</a> about how Mpls-St.Paul is America's Most Relaxed City and contemplate all the reasons you love your house, city, area, state.<br /><br />6. Thank EVERYONE who does something for you as if they'd just given you a kidney and a second chance to live. Over-tip your waitstaff, barista or hairstylist.... jkkkkk.<br /><br />OK so now I'm just falling asleep, so I'll call it quits here....<br /><br />x0x0Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-63475423848106882372010-11-04T20:56:00.001-05:002010-11-04T21:36:30.321-05:00I have a good memory. And also, I am smart.I opened up my blog with the intent to write a post about how awesome we are about not yet turning on our heat. Turns out I not only already posted about that, but it was mere days ago. Guess what's on my mind right now? The fact that I can't feel my toes. Hence my "inspiration."<br /><br />Huh.... now what should I talk about? <br /><br />Important news update: I put slippers and a blanket on. I'm less cold. <br /><br />I have an idea for a post now, but clearly I can't combine it with this one. So "refresh" and enjoy post #2 for the evening.Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-37455469934272517292010-10-27T23:35:00.000-05:002010-10-27T23:53:39.646-05:00Energy savings according to me.It has been colder than a morgue lately and our super leaky house just loves to invite the breeze inside. And there's plennnnnty of breeze to go around. But I just sort of can't turn on the heat yet..... for one, I don't like the *smell* of heat. Call me weird. I'm really sensitive to hot air, and especially hate when it's in my face (I HATE getting into other people's cars when they have the heat on full blast). Additionally, heating is expensive - need I remind you my house is old and leaky? - and also it costs a lot of money. <br /><br />So, my basic plan of keeping warm is this:<br />1. Apply flannel evenly to lower half<br />2. Apply cotton t-shirt to upper half<br />3. Apply cotton/comfy fuzzy sherpa insidey hoodie to upper half<br />4. Apply sock 1 to foot A and sock 2 to foot B<br />5. Insert foot A into slipper C and foot B into slipper D<br />6. While seated in recliner (not included), spread thin layer of cotton blanket evenly from chest down<br /><br />And finally.....<br />You know what's a kind-of-cheaper and much more fun than turning up the thermostat? Red wine. Seriously. Have a glass or two or three and you'll feel flush, warm and toasty, regardless of what degree your thermostat may have fallen to... <em>///56 DEGREES??? I need more wine.\\\</em><br /><br />Oh, I bought a sweet new parka. It will get it's own post after I have the chance to test-drive it outside.Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-37629984535965331462010-10-27T22:18:00.001-05:002010-10-27T23:26:20.112-05:00An update.... and an attempted return to bloggery.Hi folks! It's about that time for another mediocre attempt at returning to my blog! Huzzah!!!<br /><br />Things are excellent -- I started my new job at <a href="http://www.colessalon.com/">Cole's Salon</a> at Eagan Station on Sept 7th and have been totally and completely happy with my decision to work there. I'm chock-full of reasons why it's a great company, and I'd love to share:<br /><br /><strong>1. They're extremely successful.<br /></strong>Cole's Salons have been in business for 31 years now. That's a long time. And the company is littered with people who've been there for 20, 25, 30 years who love what they do, and love for whom they do it. In fact, <a href="http://http//ww2.startribune.com/projects/topworkplaces/TWmasterList2010.html">Star Tribune listed</a> Cole's as the #2 Mid-size company to work for in Minnesota. And because of the ESOP program, we all get to have shares in the company stock. Cole's is 44% employee owned. We work our butts off AND reap the rewards.<br /><br />(If I could have my way, I'd beef up their website and marketing, expand further INTO the cities - say Bloomington, even - and really make COLE'S known as a high-end group of salons. We sell amazing products, and staff extremely talented people! Let's tell the world!!!! My biggest pet-peeve is when people hear "Cole's" and think "Kohls"......)<br /><br /><strong>2. I fit there very very well.</strong><br />There's just something so perfectly balanced about it.... laid-back, but high-quality... family-friendly, but theraputic.... efficient, but personal.... Cole's has mastered the art of treating clients like family. Growing up in the area and going to Cole's as a child, I experienced this first hand. We have many clients under the age of 18.... and many under the age of 8. They see the same hairdresser from their first day of Kindergarten until their high school prom, and beyond. Some now bring their own children with them. And that is EXACTLY the kind of place I want to be. I want to bring my own friends and family who are now my clients into a place where they feel welcomed, served, and treated like guests. I can't tell you how many trainers I've had tell me "your station is your home, and your client is your guest - bring them in, and always ask them back."<br /><br />The thing about my coworkers is that I not only enjoy them personally, but I also get a great deal of guidance and mentorship from them professionally. These ladies (we have no guys at our location!) know how to WORK. IT. OUT. I'm not kidding you. It's intimidating and inspiring. And also intimidating.<br /><br /><strong>3. They are committed to ME. As an employee and a PERSON!</strong><br />There's a big piece of our new staff training where they talk about being a "lifelong learner" and developing yourself personally and professionally. The beauty industry is not one that likes to stay the same for very long, so that concept is extremely important professionally. But on a personal level, Cole's has something called "Golden Nuggets." When I started, they provided me with a small "nugget" notebook and the book <a href="http://http//www.amazon.com/Lifes-Greatest-Lessons-Things-Matter/dp/074323782X">Life's Greatest Lessons</a> by Hal Urban (READ IT). Every day, we spend time reading this or other books of the self-help, inspirational, motivational sort. And as we read, we are encouraged to write down statements from the book that resonate. As we add more and more, we go back and read them, and continue to develop ourselves, whether it be bettering our habits, philosophies on life or achieving goals. It's a wonderful practice, and I like to add that tidbit of inspiration to my workday, if only to fend off a case of the Mondays.<br /><br />A favorite Golden Nugget: <strong>"Pain is <em>inevitable</em>..... but misery is <u>optional</u>."</strong><br /><br />- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -<br /><br />Now, I need to address another piece of this, and that's Spalon Montage. While I did interview there, and was "in process" as an applicant from March to August, I was turned down for a position. By email. ? I interviewed very well, I've never ever ever had a problem connecting with someone in an interview, and I had a *fantastic* resume for a new graduate from beauty school. And, after being told in one interview that they don't do technical interviews but hire based on personality (a philosophy I support), it stung a bit.... The only reason that I could think for not being selected is that I would not fit in with their <em>aesthetic</em>..... 50th & France can't employ anyone that can't fit into Anthropologie's overpriced-yet-girlishly-adorable offerings. Pfffft. So what if I want to wear MuMus to work and smell like fried chicken??!? lol lol<br /><br />But honestly, I really don't care! I'm SOOO happy at my salon, and I'm happy to work for a company for which I'm truly passionate. I'm PROUD of the work we do, the people we staff, the clients we serve and the ways we do it.<br /><br />So here's my suggestion for our new marketing campaign:<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Cole's Salons: Turning Clients into Family since 1979</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">:-)</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br />OOOH, and #4 - the products are the BEST: <a href="http://www.aveda.com/">Aveda</a>, <a href="http://www.bumbleandbumble.com/">Bumble & bumble</a> and <a href="http://oribe.com/">Oribe</a>? Yes please!Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1159985993826108050.post-11385791483108997072010-04-12T09:19:00.001-05:002010-04-12T09:47:52.947-05:00The Taste of Summer.As many of you have experienced and shared, I love me some delightful summer cocktails whilst enjoying delightful summer sunshine. There's nothing better than that cool, refreshing beverage in hand while you (and friends) partake in patio time, sit on a deck or -best of all- lounge by a pool. <div></div><div><em><br />An aside: I no longer live at my apartment complex and it KILLS me that I won't be able to host pool time this summer. For the first time since.... 2004 :-(</em></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>Have you ever indulged in a Blojito? A delicious summer cocktail option invented by my brother. A trait that seems to run in the family, as my dad loves to make up his own drinks as well. Being a gal who loves to create her own tasty beverages, I often will make up random concoctions; every so often, a classic is born.</div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>I give you <strong>the Blue Lemon</strong>.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://image3.examiner.com/images/blog/wysiwyg/Image/05-22-06StoliBlueberi.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 115px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 460px" alt="" src="http://image3.examiner.com/images/blog/wysiwyg/Image/05-22-06StoliBlueberi.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.aquaamore.com/images/products/01353.jpg"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fo8Wrs-VtQQ/S0PXht_bXEI/AAAAAAAAADo/kiaM9Rb2haw/s320/712206b.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fo8Wrs-VtQQ/S0PXht_bXEI/AAAAAAAAADo/kiaM9Rb2haw/s320/712206b.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Stoli Blueberry, like other Stoli flavors, is a really good interpretation of the intended flavor. It seems very natural and light (unlike our friends at UV). San Pellegrino's Limonata has a similar feeling - an airy, crisp lemon taste, just enough carbonation, and those adorable little cans! Paired together, you get a delicious, light cocktail with just enough flavor for summer - nothing heavy or syrupy here.</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>While you're not likely to find bars that can serve this treat, I do have an alternative: order yourself a Stoli blue with lemonade AND soda, and you'll have a remix that's close enough for government work.</div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers!</div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>(If you're curious - the Blojito recipe: vodka, Simply Limeade blender-ed with fresh mint leaves, and Archer Farms Blood Orange Italian Soda)</div><div><br /></div><div></div>Traycinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05662087290078891959noreply@blogger.com0