tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40037366096090391292024-03-13T15:35:32.850-05:00Frankfully(This blog title makes no sense.)<br>
DIY, design, crafting, cooking, sewing, you know, lifeVictoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.comBlogger265125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-43199877610423856482016-12-24T13:09:00.001-06:002016-12-24T13:11:46.378-06:00Yes, Virgina, there is a Santa Claus.<blockquote>
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Dear Editor—<br />
I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa
Claus. Papa says, "If you see it in The Sun, it's so." Please tell me
the truth, is there a Santa Claus?<br />
Virginia O'Hanlon<br />
115 West Ninety Fifth Street</blockquote>
Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by
the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see.
They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their
little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's,
are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an
ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as
measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and
knowledge.<br />
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<b>Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love
and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and
give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be
the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if
there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no
poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence.</b><br />
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<b>
</b>We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The external
light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.<br />
<br />
Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies.
You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on
Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa
Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but
that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in
the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever
see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that
they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders
there are unseen and unseeable in the world.<br />
You tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside,
but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest
man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever
lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push
aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory
beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing
else real and abiding.<br />
<br />
No Santa Claus! Thank God! He lives and lives forever. A thousand
years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will
continue to make glad the heart of childhood.<br />
<br />
-----------------<br />
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<i> <a href="http://www.nysun.com/editorials/yes-virginia/68502/" target="_blank">"Is There a Santa Claus?" reprinted from the September 21, 1897, number of The New York Sun.</a></i><br />
<i>(text emphasized by me) :)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Merry Christmas!!</i>Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-6792959465990424102016-08-19T01:42:00.001-05:002016-08-19T01:44:40.688-05:00My Current Skin Care Lineup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am no beauty guru, but I'm at a place where I'm pretty happy with my skin and my skincare routine, so I thought I'd share!</div>
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Just for reference, I think my skin is a little on the oily side (at least the T-zone). I'm always battling a little bit of acne/hormonal acne, and I've been seeking other ways to tackle it than the continual drying/moisturizing cycle of over-the-counter acne products.</div>
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As a part of my semi-simple, semi-healthy personal campaign, I've also been after finding a set of products that really works for me, versus the constant trial and error (i.e. pitching in the garbage or letting collect dust in my bathroom) of prettily-packaged sale items at Target. :) Here is where I've gotten to today and some short product reviews.</div>
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<b>My main exciting find:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiumpvaLN63JKri8Vf1SKfldiNDwOILK7U-ZMY_XKWWuThjSDu-BvtFd5k4BZoaG_K8vt5zzRiQJmhIEeCxCDVqCiA4x5S7DSlNX12M1OAirSGTph-4EUpUBSz7o6RAKzbTldaD47RCg/s1600/PicsArt_08-19-01.19.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiumpvaLN63JKri8Vf1SKfldiNDwOILK7U-ZMY_XKWWuThjSDu-BvtFd5k4BZoaG_K8vt5zzRiQJmhIEeCxCDVqCiA4x5S7DSlNX12M1OAirSGTph-4EUpUBSz7o6RAKzbTldaD47RCg/s640/PicsArt_08-19-01.19.50.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><i><a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/skin-care/skin-prep/charcoal-cleansing-bar.html">Beautycounter's Charcoal Cleansing Bar</a></i></b><br />
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In the first 2 weeks or so that I had it, I felt like it started shrinking red spots on my face immensely. I've been using it morning and evening nearly every day for over a month, and I love it so much, I've been recommending it to everyone! I generally shy away from bar soap, but this isn't like regular soap at all, and because it's in bar form, it seems like it will last forever (making it seem like a deal compared to some other beauty products!)</div>
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<a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/janisla-crosse">Beautycounter</a> is on a mission to give women safe ingredients in skin and makeup products, which shockingly isn't something that you can be guaranteed is in most of your cosmetics. Read more about their mission <a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/our-story/#ourmission">here.</a> And shop through these links with <a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/janisla-crosse">my friend, Janis</a>! I know she's happy to answer any questions you might have. <br />
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<b>My other, every-night product:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hQYMzsuxMIcSvvLGAq8wz4gXFGyb9LbLHaT0pD-nwCIFAqTPWvQU0XnnQLMhGUycgVF3kH16Hui7LkUdOJR6jwui-alT2gFNLjpaiPIvhvs89NTEIvmxbmRhG9_c1rNCK_XZsNcbUM0/s1600/PicsArt_08-19-01.18.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hQYMzsuxMIcSvvLGAq8wz4gXFGyb9LbLHaT0pD-nwCIFAqTPWvQU0XnnQLMhGUycgVF3kH16Hui7LkUdOJR6jwui-alT2gFNLjpaiPIvhvs89NTEIvmxbmRhG9_c1rNCK_XZsNcbUM0/s640/PicsArt_08-19-01.18.20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><b><a href="http://victoriafane.norwex.biz/en_US/customer/shop/product-detail/40478">Norwex Makeup Removal Cloth</a></b></i><i><b> and </b></i><i><b><a href="http://victoriafane.norwex.biz/en_US/customer/shop/product-detail/40488">Norwex Body Cloth</a></b></i></h4>
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These products only use water to work, which makes them both simple and healthy! I take off my makeup with the makeup removal cloths (duh), eliminating the need for any other makeup remover (for me, at least!) Then, I wipe my face down with the body cloth - it seems like it's giving me some slight exfoliation, and just makes my face feel clean. Some people say it's helped their acne by really cleaning and removing oil and bacteria from their face. I can at least say that I think my face has been much more under control (ie no crazy unexpected breakouts) since I've started my new routine. <br />
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You don't *need* to use a facial cleanser after the <a href="http://victoriafane.norwez.biz/">Norwex</a> cloths, but I do. I generally follow with the <a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/charcoal-cleansing-bar.html">charcoal bar.</a> The body cloth is great in the morning, though, to feel like you've got a fresh face for makeup without necessarily using more cleansers. </div>
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<b>My previous cleanser that I still rotate in:</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7pPGBcpbh_rU7wTGvjzGGTDuorsbu9srsE9qeLX5A49a-76RyV3w4b7aUQRKyOd36JIO09wQy8Q3fNJwJakklr5nV4HBmHViJg5NTd5HJJXWcznO_NOrvhZ4UN7ykSkBwxfLZ7mDm7A/s1600/PicsArt_08-19-01.22.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7pPGBcpbh_rU7wTGvjzGGTDuorsbu9srsE9qeLX5A49a-76RyV3w4b7aUQRKyOd36JIO09wQy8Q3fNJwJakklr5nV4HBmHViJg5NTd5HJJXWcznO_NOrvhZ4UN7ykSkBwxfLZ7mDm7A/s640/PicsArt_08-19-01.22.16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><i><a href="https://www.marykay.com/elliemturk/en-US/products/skincare/TimeWise-3In1-Cleanser-CombinationOily-100702" target="_blank">Mary Kay Timewise 3-in-1 Cleanser</a></i></b></div>
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I really like this cleanser - it's smooth and gentle, but feels very effective without drying out my skin. It's got little beads in it that I assume are part of the "3-in-1" formula, and somehow make me feel like the product is working :) I still use it a couple of times a week, and I have a bottle in the shower. I also love my <a href="http://www.marykay.com/elliemturk" target="_blank">Mary Kay consultant!</a><br />
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My other secret facial weapons are a face oil serum and essential oils which I will post about next!<br />
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Do you have a facial skin care routine that works or do you feel like you're stuck in a rut?!<br />
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Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-73271903791136552082016-07-16T11:58:00.001-05:002016-07-16T11:58:33.297-05:00Best Toy Ever!<p dir="ltr">Gotta teach the DIY young :)</p>
<p dir="ltr">We got this Mighty Digger at Menards for $20ish!</p>
<p dir="ltr">PS...renovations are starting on the house!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErcrvBJv5xCissoKvKj1pje3PJSESl5d9nSlhzPq-_GX7vF-HOyOAygYOAIVGLEhkt-PK4HjMWRgrWYZ2zlOUDYWYkGmKGDKANLmDXUsiETKJ6jiJOv8r4MWUV9XkimPWyO0f7n6la4E/s1600/20160716_115417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErcrvBJv5xCissoKvKj1pje3PJSESl5d9nSlhzPq-_GX7vF-HOyOAygYOAIVGLEhkt-PK4HjMWRgrWYZ2zlOUDYWYkGmKGDKANLmDXUsiETKJ6jiJOv8r4MWUV9XkimPWyO0f7n6la4E/s640/20160716_115417.jpg"> </a> </div>Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-30193369723441016502016-07-07T15:16:00.003-05:002016-07-07T15:37:00.580-05:00Semi-Natural, Semi-Homemade, and Product Reviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiTIqcJ_e4N7H5itDj0tB-v4-3m1RjZg3NBGlPs-lqa9NNrPitgdM4zL-K0dDWhV_ym3cxtwShNcmaO-2LM7OqvQBgu6i3F3oLut_-eqGQ9sB3FcATtjzlOtfOTN5t582byL9lUwed_E/s1600/20160707_150749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiTIqcJ_e4N7H5itDj0tB-v4-3m1RjZg3NBGlPs-lqa9NNrPitgdM4zL-K0dDWhV_ym3cxtwShNcmaO-2LM7OqvQBgu6i3F3oLut_-eqGQ9sB3FcATtjzlOtfOTN5t582byL9lUwed_E/s640/20160707_150749.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div>
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When I started this blog (and really,
part of the reason I've ever wanted to blog) was to share product
reviews: of things I've made (I love to DIY almost anything!) and things I've bought, and my experiences
with both. I've just wanted to pass along some notes and thoughts about
... well, pretty much anything and everything.<br />
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Lately, I've wanted to kind of simplify parts of my life (don't we all!) and be more conscientious of things I use/ingest/expose myself to. I know I'll never be a totally crunchy hippie, but I think it doesn't hurt to be mindful and somewhat healthy! :) I also only want to surround myself with things that make me happy (Marie Kondo's "sparking joy"!) whether it be in my nighttime routine, house cleaning, eating, or clothes-wearing! </div>
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And...I pretty much rely on product reviews I read online, so I want to add to
the conversation, especially if it can help someone else out! I always
want to be honest with my thoughts, and I'll mostly be sharing my
enthusiasm for products I find fantastic!!<br />
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I'm adding some labels to
the blog: semi-natural, semi-homemade, semi-simple, semi-healthy, etc. (Wasn't there
a cooking show in the early 2000s about this? Semi-Homemade? I don't
really remember the show, but I love the concept!) I won't ever be a paleo-vegan-marathon runner (but I love you if you are!), but I will be a somewhat-healthy, somewhat-natural happy person. Hence the new blog labels/categories. :)<br />
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Anyway, these are my quick thoughts about reviewing products: store-bought and semi-homemade. Honest and hopefully fun and helpful!</div>
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Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-20780177254976975292016-07-07T14:52:00.000-05:002016-07-07T14:52:05.905-05:00AndroidVid Pro: Video Editor App<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is the app I use for editing videos on my phone and it's great! I generally do just basic stuff: trimming video, converting the size (for text and email) and cropping, and it's always been easy and straight forward to use. I think it's the best video editing app I've found! I like it better than things I use on my computer!<br />
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<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.androvidpro&hl=en">https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.androvidpro&hl=en</a><br />
<br />Check it out if you're looking for something for Android!Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-27508970340053322172016-06-22T09:40:00.003-05:002016-06-22T09:40:58.924-05:00Our New House!<div dir="ltr">
Here's a quick shot of our new digs!</div>
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I'm excited to really get in and have fun with cleaning up the landscape (and make <a href="http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/biography/0,,420047,00.html" target="_blank">Roger Cook</a> proud), and generally just move in and make ourselves at home.</div>
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As you can see, Porcupine is already enjoying the sprinkler!</div>
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Now, when I start posting about the random projects and life going on around here, you'll have a little context :)</div>
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I hope you're enjoying the start to your summer as much as a kid in a sprinkler!!</div>
Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-33328646411755987112016-05-18T00:43:00.001-05:002016-05-18T00:43:20.306-05:00Whew! We've moved!The last few months of our life have been hectic, to say the least!<br />
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I'll just touch on a few highlights to get us up to speed, so hopefully I can get back to some regular posting. <br />
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Porcupine got the flu for his 2nd birthday, so we had to cancel his party.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZxHtlnUW4hzlEU-JrURWIn7mWhaa4Gd1VtGImdQ_fhv-B2wa7La9KjB12ypV2Yom3XySTfkdtXuSvD_3umJopq68Xo1xWbC9SdbprfBVTtbMkVRCq5tT17fL-0iOSoQ7KsXZPyD0DQsI/s1600/2nd_bday.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZxHtlnUW4hzlEU-JrURWIn7mWhaa4Gd1VtGImdQ_fhv-B2wa7La9KjB12ypV2Yom3XySTfkdtXuSvD_3umJopq68Xo1xWbC9SdbprfBVTtbMkVRCq5tT17fL-0iOSoQ7KsXZPyD0DQsI/s640/2nd_bday.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to Grandma, we still had great balloons!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
But we did end up selling our house and moving! Hooray!<br />
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By the end, we had 3 different offers on <a href="http://frankfully.blogspot.com/2015/10/our-house-is-on-market.html" target="_blank">our house</a>, one after the other, but the first 2 fell through for various reasons on the buyers' parts. It was frustrating, but after one offer would fall through, we'd quickly get another. So it seemed like it took a long time to sell our house, but it was really the ups and downs that were getting to us. Really, it was just about 5 months from when we put it on the market to when we signed the papers and moved out, and that included Christmas and New Year's! Once the final offer came in, we were reluctant to get overjoyed (or to get our moving butts in gear) until we really knew it would stick...but then it felt like all of a sudden we had to get packed up and moved! But we were happy to do it. We loved our house, but we were ready to move on.<br />
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Which brings us to the next hiccup in our moving...the weekend we were moving things out, as in 2 days before we went to close on the house, Brian smashed is foot in between a trailer tongue and our truck bumper! It was terrible. I had to do the final moving out without him - thank goodness for great family and friends! And the worst part was that it kept getting worse. I won't go into lots of details, but although it wasn't broken, he ended up needing surgery, which happened 2 weeks after the injury. Because the surgery happened so long after the initial incident, he ended up needing what amounted to another mini-surgery...and well, it still isn't healed up all the way. So since the first week of March, he's been pretty much off his feet. The last couple of weeks have been somewhat back to normal, but our lives have been in a weird holding pattern. We're still kind of living out of boxes and needless to say, haven't started remodeling the new house, etc.<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/AVvXsEhq3FbJ4in1LellYg9bc4N1tMN3sZF9yBe0_lLrGKN5OMFZ_xwOHfKqBJFFTJH6zjP69WtPaUtwpz0Ay-pAFZNGcp09m2SBVSiHn-wDWdL_g76ndsBAkSUjG_J7yL7fI7u9jFOUwk2BC6E/s1600/locking_up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3FbJ4in1LellYg9bc4N1tMN3sZF9yBe0_lLrGKN5OMFZ_xwOHfKqBJFFTJH6zjP69WtPaUtwpz0Ay-pAFZNGcp09m2SBVSiHn-wDWdL_g76ndsBAkSUjG_J7yL7fI7u9jFOUwk2BC6E/s640/locking_up.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Locking up hour old house by myself</td></tr>
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And 2 days after we moved, I had to put my awesome dog, Shadow, to sleep. It was sad, but he'd been really sick for the week or two before we moved. Seeing him suffering was no fun, but I'm sad he's not here with us for this new part of our adventure in life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliCsZkh8PpKqLXHVoZI0l4zV3nyqTv4vfbrSg5xPrWL3vpC_ptICG_BLNtqEgOahNi_Ttv-_DeUcXNbyYNhzyTB9euFeFm_dGScJMdtBPJAm0TePaDFNzZ6eXznM71fe6cvtTt-sbJfY/s1600/goodbye_shadow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliCsZkh8PpKqLXHVoZI0l4zV3nyqTv4vfbrSg5xPrWL3vpC_ptICG_BLNtqEgOahNi_Ttv-_DeUcXNbyYNhzyTB9euFeFm_dGScJMdtBPJAm0TePaDFNzZ6eXznM71fe6cvtTt-sbJfY/s640/goodbye_shadow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good boy, Shadow.</td></tr>
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I also got a cool tablet, in part, to help make posting to the blog easier...but it's been "misplaced" in what I can only assume was a Porcupine-related episode. :) Hopefully, I'll find it soon!<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/AVvXsEgU63mHKv_gm9-ThzKV5PhEpCXN_lmW6qMfAAqpWJBx3tOLd9YmTHRMuFViMsjOFTgulq9lAVX1BQSSco2agLvlhaebLNUOt_YO6Hm0FIjfWQDI5D_-EovaNR5CiPOkd1OwsSaDRW1avOg/s1600/porcupine_shirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU63mHKv_gm9-ThzKV5PhEpCXN_lmW6qMfAAqpWJBx3tOLd9YmTHRMuFViMsjOFTgulq9lAVX1BQSSco2agLvlhaebLNUOt_YO6Hm0FIjfWQDI5D_-EovaNR5CiPOkd1OwsSaDRW1avOg/s640/porcupine_shirt.JPG" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to my awesome friend, Janis, for the cool Porcupine shirt!!!!</td></tr>
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Things seem to be getting back to normal and I hope it continues that way! I have so many things I'd love to post and chat with you about!<br />
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<br />Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-34424245933863029912016-01-12T14:28:00.000-06:002016-01-12T14:28:05.467-06:00Charles Perrault's Birthday!Thank you, Google Doodles, for telling me that today is Charles Perrault's birthday!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQBLXWatZNhftQi-tlzOyFFjaJOleXcjeFjwAoAuz5Yam6d466ZnrfyKSlUoVHCVMPRsGnGgthvj5DWxm32P14Bke3XrTeuQPhrgRwnCJyv_8uoummuT6xSgr5bjNhOfq2xJqUxsWJzM/s1600/charles-perraults-388th-birthday-5071286030041088.3-5694639155707904-ror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQBLXWatZNhftQi-tlzOyFFjaJOleXcjeFjwAoAuz5Yam6d466ZnrfyKSlUoVHCVMPRsGnGgthvj5DWxm32P14Bke3XrTeuQPhrgRwnCJyv_8uoummuT6xSgr5bjNhOfq2xJqUxsWJzM/s640/charles-perraults-388th-birthday-5071286030041088.3-5694639155707904-ror.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOI0KtyjYMTan7Tt3pCIROInuAc_9_Qy99WJUjLaxyqD0nuwm8SKSw5LI2CuY5vZ1pjgqV1-Q8e42Hia-Q8iHrR4TShJWXp3CTO2siRqZR-uSzGsCekB0j4mJMnOwRH4X81yc9zgU_s4/s1600/charles-perraults-388th-birthday-5071286030041088-5656774724026368-ror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOI0KtyjYMTan7Tt3pCIROInuAc_9_Qy99WJUjLaxyqD0nuwm8SKSw5LI2CuY5vZ1pjgqV1-Q8e42Hia-Q8iHrR4TShJWXp3CTO2siRqZR-uSzGsCekB0j4mJMnOwRH4X81yc9zgU_s4/s640/charles-perraults-388th-birthday-5071286030041088-5656774724026368-ror.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoiD0N-uGXgXaXG46DaOY5IpweqynK2WlxC_1p6DF005gf4bLClWE9uL3_QXNUwUH5nbAcGIXaiwfZkU2bdz3hyz4F5Ud29zf2fxtTxXk7EUBzphAa5ulOVkEuMbxSk_fyBNCccTGiw_0/s1600/charles-perraults-388th-birthday-5071286030041088-5767494685949952-ror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoiD0N-uGXgXaXG46DaOY5IpweqynK2WlxC_1p6DF005gf4bLClWE9uL3_QXNUwUH5nbAcGIXaiwfZkU2bdz3hyz4F5Ud29zf2fxtTxXk7EUBzphAa5ulOVkEuMbxSk_fyBNCccTGiw_0/s640/charles-perraults-388th-birthday-5071286030041088-5767494685949952-ror.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div>
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I love fairy tales - especially well-illustrated ones! In honor of his birthday, here are my favorite illustrated versions of these tales! (And a few more fun books as well!)</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312659458/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0312659458&linkCode=as2&tag=victoriavmcom-20&linkId=3UOVBRLXGKNHONKX" target="_blank">Puss in Boots</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1587170043/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1587170043&linkCode=as2&tag=victoriavmcom-20&linkId=T3C5KIS4PNZ4QQY3" target="_blank">Cinderella</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1587171201/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1587171201&linkCode=as2&tag=victoriavmcom-20&linkId=X3C3E5SO23V4Z5GF" target="_blank">Sleeping Beauty</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688080510/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0688080510&linkCode=as2&tag=victoriavmcom-20&linkId=PA77PTZ4ZKM4TZUS" target="_blank">The Twelve Dancing Princesses</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0486223116/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0486223116&linkCode=as2&tag=victoriavmcom-20&linkId=CYWJ34XPYBAVLMWB" target="_blank">Perrault's Fairy Tales</a></div>
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I hope you have as much fun reading them as I do! </div>
<br />Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-19515788021655921712015-12-02T01:13:00.001-06:002015-12-02T01:13:31.990-06:00Porcupine's "Lovey" <p dir="ltr">I might be wrong but...there's probably a lot of DIY in this kid's future. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65-GY8LmnxKXtdRhvmWonNWVtw63DyGI4mNBkDnpVGLBRug8XEPAEfTqw-abbyEXxetWrGFK_rg39ttvuMUNar2cYe0ZJeRnJ1g06WQlaN5WmO1IlVrLuUVghGuJGxaB6eOfEVBo0NEM/s1600/20151201_001527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65-GY8LmnxKXtdRhvmWonNWVtw63DyGI4mNBkDnpVGLBRug8XEPAEfTqw-abbyEXxetWrGFK_rg39ttvuMUNar2cYe0ZJeRnJ1g06WQlaN5WmO1IlVrLuUVghGuJGxaB6eOfEVBo0NEM/s640/20151201_001527.jpg"> </a> </div>Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-22461286550573118732015-11-13T10:24:00.000-06:002015-11-13T22:24:24.984-06:00Hello, Scentsy in Giant Boxes!<div dir="ltr"><br><img title="Scentsy_packages" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Scentsy_packages" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e-S5cYi1lDI/Vka3cHHxhnI/AAAAAAAAkkw/ij8Kp_n2FoM/20151106_141137-1%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="474" height="614"> </div> <div dir="ltr">I know I said that is try not to spam this blog with Scentsy, but I can't help it! (It's not spam, yet, is it?) I love it and it's something new in my life! I love scheming for the best deals - and Scentsy can be a dream for that: combine and save packages, hostess rewards, monthly specials, oh my! </div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr">(I want to get my act together to tell you all my Shutterfly deal-scheming, too! I have a lot of photo books that still need to be made and bought <i>with coupons</i>. My next Tuesday should be my love of coupons!)(<i>Ok, I'm officially babbling</i>.)</div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr">Anyway, my first few Scentsy basket parties have been pretty successful...it's like Christmas here! Look at all this great stuff that my friends/family/customers got!</div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr"><img title="Scentsy_order" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Scentsy_order" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XFN7uNxLQsU/Vka3cpEIOnI/AAAAAAAAkk0/Khs5JRkKff0/20151106_161748%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr">I got a bottle of the Vanilla Cinnamon Clove Natural Oil to try! Exciting!</div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr"><img title="20151106_143312" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="20151106_143312" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bA4AyznrDxw/Vka3dVeRUFI/AAAAAAAAkk4/fRphyOq2qOc/20151106_143312%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="362" height="478"> </div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr">And of course, I immediately plugged in my new Let it Snow warmer – the November Warmer of the Month. This pretty warmer is part of why I joined Scentsy in the first place!! And let me tell you, so worth it! It’s so gorgeous in real life! I love that it is wintery, not just Christmas-y, so I don’t have to feel bad about using it all season ;)</div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr"><img title="Scentsy Let it Snow Warmer" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Scentsy Let it Snow Warmer" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-96cOL8CxHtQ/Vka3eCDVQsI/AAAAAAAAkk8/IgEN1dFjA1A/DSC_0856-001%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr">Such an exciting first order! This is fun! :) I would have been posting about some cute Scentsy stuff whether I had joined or not…I can’t help it, I just love chatting about things I love! But I promise to keep it to cute stuff :) :) :)</div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr">(This was actually last week, but my lucky Friday the 13th is to be posting it today! (I got another fun Scentsy box today!) Anything fun happen to you on this “spooky” day?)</div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div dir="ltr"> </div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both"> </div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both"> </div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both"> </div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both"> </div> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-58151036796636034302015-11-09T09:14:00.000-06:002015-11-09T09:14:00.399-06:00Porcupine’s First Birthday Party<p>As we’re coming up on his <em>second</em> birthday party, I thought I’d finally get around to posting a few pictures from Porcupine’s first birthday party. We had a blast and everything turned out just the way I wanted it to! <em>(Except all the snow on the ground, but what can you do when you have a baby in February in Indiana!)</em></p> <p>The theme was kind-of Alphabet-y. <em>Everything I do is Alphabet-y (I still have to post baby shower alphabet things! Another thing to add to the to-do list!)</em> I found inspiration for an Alphabet-y invitation from <a href="http://pewterandsage.blogspot.com/2011/09/mauras-1st-birthday-party-invitations.html" target="_blank">this blog</a>. </p> <p align="center"><img title="Alphabet Birthday Inviation" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Alphabet Birthday Inviation" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4minTeh4ypA/VjxTZJWaS9I/AAAAAAAAkiE/_b2dfAwJxbs/Aa%252520is%252520for%252520Porcupine%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="345" height="534"> <em>(Fonts are Century Schoolbook and LaurenScript. I used the “Pencil Sketch” feature on Picasa to make Porcupine’s picture seem schoolbook-y. Then I printed them on cardstock – 2 to a page.)</em></p> <p align="left">I’d been pinning all kinds of cute desserts forever, so I just made a bunch! Cupcakes with rainbows, goldfish, teddies, “balloons”, and of course As, Bs, and Cs! </p> <p align="left"><img title="cupcakes" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="cupcakes" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OcMc0vQM74g/VjxTZ4z4wJI/AAAAAAAAkiM/Rji6uhlftvk/DSC_0660%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </p> <p align="left"><img title="first birthday desserts" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="first birthday desserts" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H9QkkSNSnrg/VjxTaof83EI/AAAAAAAAkiQ/aEdpayE7IYM/DSC_0785%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </p> <p></p> <p>My mother-in-law made Porcupine a giant cupcake to smash in to!</p> <p><img title="giant_cupcake_first_birthday" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="giant_cupcake_first_birthday" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cEjJZRosv_M/VjxTbWB4eyI/AAAAAAAAkiU/2UUpqkiUw5M/DSC_0787%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </p> <p>I ordered the “one” plates from <a href="http://www.birthdayexpress.com/p/91263/everything-one-boy-dessert-plates" target="_blank">BirthdayExpress.com</a>, along with some other things. I couldn’t believe that I couldn’t just find blue “one” plates locally! Oh well…I love internet shopping!</p> <p>I knew I wanted some kind of cool “backdrop” <em>(again, I owe you a baby shower post, because there, we did balloons, kind of </em><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/106186503687686136/" target="_blank"><em>like this</em></a><em>.) </em>made of balloons or streamers or something. Then, on the same blog where I found the invitation inspiration, I found a cool “Happy Birthday” sign <a href="http://pewterandsage.blogspot.com/2014/11/mauras-horse-4th-birthday-party.html?m=1" target="_blank">inspiration</a>.</p> <p align="center"><img title="first_birthday" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="first_birthday" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FsiKk-7QdJA/VjxTcUfPzgI/AAAAAAAAkig/pvXoJ9Q_UvE/DSC_0807%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> <em>I cut the letters out on my Cricut using the font from the “A Child’s Year” cartridge.</em></p> <p>Our house was full of family and fun, and I couldn’t have asked for a better party.</p> <p><img title="family_party" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="family_party" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WDz-Zrm7c8U/VjxTdfS8XjI/AAAAAAAAkio/E8Vtr-7ozLk/DSC_0746%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </p> <p>I think Porcupine had a great time, too…and he loved his cake!</p> <p><img title="DSC_0848" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC_0848" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CBfVJEMPXKc/VjxTeNkXz8I/AAAAAAAAkiw/M-IfiIs-438/DSC_0848%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </p> <p>Hopefully, I’ll post pictures from his second birthday in a more timely manner! And I’ll get to work on a baby shower post, pronto!</p> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-72862813511483600822015-11-05T09:00:00.000-06:002015-11-06T00:20:06.893-06:00FibaFuse Paperless Drywall Tape<div dir="ltr">
I have probably said this before, but I don't love drywall finishing work (and I am certainly not a pro at it!), but I always get stuck doing it because I have more patience than Brian.</div>
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I recently found <a href="http://www.menards.com/main/building-materials/drywall/drywall-tape/250-fibafuse-joint-tape/p-1444450691753.htm;jsessionid=BB335D74F47D35A33AB111103D35F875.tndm-prodapp2-external-mcom" target="_blank">this joint tape</a> and have only mudded with it a few times, but I think I really like it. I can't yet speak to its longevity, but it embeds easily into the mud and seems easy to cover. I don't like that the fiberglass feels like it gets in your hands like insulation does, but if I was using it a lot, I should probably wear gloves. </div>
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Has anyone else used it? Does anyone actually like mudding drywall? </div>
Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-57583975510257725932015-11-02T13:39:00.001-06:002016-07-11T00:15:03.242-05:00Happy Halloween!Happy Halloween from Kitty Porcupine!<br />
<img alt="kitty_costume" border="0" height="462" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-06Js6IYXhyI/Vje75PV206I/AAAAAAAAkg0/PEdtp_v_gOE/kitty_costume%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="kitty_costume" width="614" /> <br />
He loves the cats at his grandma’s house so much! Here he is with his costume inspiration:<br />
<img alt="kitty_and_kitty" border="0" height="614" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Oqi-gS1b_VY/Vje75yqLqEI/AAAAAAAAkg8/5GAJifkGtso/kitty_and_kitty%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="kitty_and_kitty" width="613" /> <br />
Ha! Aren’t they cute?<br />
He had an awesome time trick-or-treating for the first time :) (on his second Halloween!)<br />
<img alt="trick_or_treat" border="0" height="614" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gU_6Wa_sSXw/Vje76_VDYLI/AAAAAAAAkhE/fhVV-AqWG2g/trick_or_treat%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="trick_or_treat" width="614" /> <br />
(He was all about the Dum-Dum suckers!)<br />
Happy Halloween!Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-63929041445557194122015-10-27T09:07:00.000-05:002015-10-27T09:07:00.042-05:00Things I Love Tuesday : Audible <div dir="ltr">
Well, after 6 years, I finally gave up my trusty<a href="http://frankfully.blogspot.com/2012/05/things-i-love-thursday-my-ipod-and.html" target="_blank"> iPod Nano + Creative speaker</a> and joined the ranks of those who use their smartphones for everything, including my always-necessary audiobooks.</div>
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I am still a huge fan of<a href="http://overdrive.lcplin.org/E6E74EE4-929F-4A98-ACC8-78534F18FE55/10/50/en/Default.htm" target="_blank"> my local library</a>, so I use the <a href="https://app.overdrive.com/" target="_blank">Overdrive app</a> for free, instantly <a href="http://overdrive.lcplin.org/E6E74EE4-929F-4A98-ACC8-78534F18FE55/10/50/en/Default.htm" target="_blank">downloadable audiobooks</a> that you can borrow.</div>
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But for things the library doesn't have, I saved my pennies and got myself an annual subscription to <a href="http://audible.com/">Audible.com</a>. (This is actually my 2nd year!) You get 12 credits to use whenever and other audiobooks are discounted. I buy cheaper books/shows and save my credits for more expensive ones.</div>
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The app is great, the instant gratification is phenomenal. You can download previously purchased books from the cloud, or get new ones. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXnoGQMJZbGrEq8rrh1PGg6WA4VYgcDqilOEPoNI8GhLv65vh0yXNNNe9Prc8lUH0CnkdMfXT_Ey9yCNuenUojGq214QWi40HiSVgcNDV4svY5pX3UZBBT9h-7GFt25VLkMYYbZUeiH2s/s1600/20151016_093636.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="401" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXnoGQMJZbGrEq8rrh1PGg6WA4VYgcDqilOEPoNI8GhLv65vh0yXNNNe9Prc8lUH0CnkdMfXT_Ey9yCNuenUojGq214QWi40HiSVgcNDV4svY5pX3UZBBT9h-7GFt25VLkMYYbZUeiH2s/s640/20151016_093636.png" width="640" /> </a> </div>
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I have a whole homepage on my phone dedicated to various audiobook players.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid15eryl0TlRmmQ221kaYDyD0zcElF7Xhp63SNWUSts7UyMXOoKtKGCH-qvW-aUmtV0IeB4qosWTzNgXxlxSVZNpr46hPjeaIbLw5nEGjrNBSEfTgKFNvNHKRQoWkVfXsdTX4vFn5mjVw/s1600/Screenshot_2015-10-16-09-46-14-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid15eryl0TlRmmQ221kaYDyD0zcElF7Xhp63SNWUSts7UyMXOoKtKGCH-qvW-aUmtV0IeB4qosWTzNgXxlxSVZNpr46hPjeaIbLw5nEGjrNBSEfTgKFNvNHKRQoWkVfXsdTX4vFn5mjVw/s400/Screenshot_2015-10-16-09-46-14-1.png" width="288" /> </a> </div>
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Now I just need to figure out the perfect bluetooth speaker situation (one that can rival my little Creative speaker). Any ideas? Anyone else use/love Audible?</div>
Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-44233454739720715742015-10-26T10:00:00.000-05:002015-10-26T22:55:06.326-05:00Hello, Scentsy!So I became a <a href="https://victoriaf.scentsy.us/" target="_blank">Scentsy rep</a>!<br />
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I'm going to try not to spam this blog with Scentsy stuff, but they'll be on here a bit because I joined because I really love the products, and I wanted to make it easy for my friends and family to get them <i>(and know when all the sales and deals are going on)</i>! I've always loved online shopping (thank you, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" type="amzn">Amazon Prime!</a>), but since I've become a mom (and really, there are <i>plenty</i> of other life changes that have this same result), I just find I don't have time to go to the store to shop - but I still love shopping and good deals and nice things.<br />
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I think I mentioned that I've been trying to follow <a asin="1607747308" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" type="amzn">Marie Kondo's</a> method of only surrounding yourself with things that spark joy. That's part of what Scentsy is to me!<br />
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I discovered I'm kind of picky about scents and smells, but when I find one (or two!) that "spark joy," I just love them and want to be immersed in them. I did shop around for other scent warmers, but I just realized, they didn't spark joy! For whatever reason - so-so quality, not great looks, mediocre functionality...and I realized, I need to get rid of that stuff! (De-hoard! De-hoard!) And only be surrounded with things you love and that make you happy.<br />
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So for fun, I joined Scentsy.<br />
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Here's (a part of) my <a href="https://victoriaf.scentsy.us/Enrollment/Join?utm_source=PWS&utm_medium=banner%20-%20top%2002&utm_campaign=main%20image%20-%20join%20-%20R1-EN%20-%20october%202015" target="_blank">Scentsy Starter Kit</a>. The testers are so fun to have around. The warmer that was included is called Thistle. And it's really my first time dealing with their other products.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxDFOklDXADYszSWxIRsu722Ofb1swQmzJCCm0Nk4EWr-64WBgZnVwEK10poB6ow7RqApMv_NuYSiF8vKnFZ-UswirfNYK1NqbgGQEQO9bLfp9cod28ggCP4gzPxvpNzWi8Tq8EQ9IHw/s1600/scentsy+starter+kit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxDFOklDXADYszSWxIRsu722Ofb1swQmzJCCm0Nk4EWr-64WBgZnVwEK10poB6ow7RqApMv_NuYSiF8vKnFZ-UswirfNYK1NqbgGQEQO9bLfp9cod28ggCP4gzPxvpNzWi8Tq8EQ9IHw/s640/scentsy+starter+kit.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you're local to Northwest Indiana, (especially Griffith/Schererville/Highland/Dyer/Crown Point), I'd love to be your Scentsy Consultant. And if you're far away, I can still save you money on shipping when you order directly through me! (Darn it, you'll just have to <a href="mailto:victoria@frankfully.com" target="_blank">email me</a> and open up some friendly communication!) :)<br />
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For more fun, here's my personal Scentsy page: <a href="https://victoriaf.scentsy.us/">https://victoriaf.scentsy.us/</a>Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-63392082178098976442015-10-22T09:33:00.000-05:002015-10-22T09:33:00.700-05:00How to Make Your Own Decaf Iced Coffee & Vanilla Syrup<div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><img title="keurig" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="keurig" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xoUh3nRpN3w/ViFNvNi53WI/AAAAAAAAkbA/KqKTn0KTRb0/keurig2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="614"> </div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both">Brian and I have tried <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/06/perfect-iced-coffee/" target="_blank">various methods</a> of making our own delicious iced coffee at home (to save a few dollars each morning!) and we've liked several, but here's what we're doing now.</div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both">In an effort to get some better sleep, we're using a lot more decaf. We still get that yummy coffee flavor and smell in the morning, but without the (for us) disastrous caffeine side effects. The Keurig is amazing, but when regular hot coffee hits all that ice, it just gets too watered down. But then I found these <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" type="amzn" asin="B006N3I79Y">extra-bold dark-roast decaf K-cups on Amazon</a>! Woohoo! Now we make fresh, delicious, perfect decaf iced coffee at home.</div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both">The other secret to our yummy iced coffee is my DIY vanilla syrup. After being too lazy to run out to GFS to buy another bottle of vanilla coffee syrup, I started Googling for a homemade alternative and found <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2011/11/make-your-own-coffee-syrup-gift-idea.html" target="_blank">this post</a>. I have tweaked the recipe to make a bottle-filling, countertop-friendly, no-refrigeration-needed version that has been serving us well for months now.</div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <h3>DIY Vanilla Syrup:</h3> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>Ingredients -</b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>-3 cups white sugar</b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>-1.5 cups water</b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>-1 teaspoon vanilla extract</b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>Combine water and sugar in a 4-cup Pyrex measuring cup or some other microwave safe container. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Remove and stir thoroughly. Add vanilla. Mixture may be cloudy, but as long as the sugar granules have dissolved, it will clear up as it cools. </b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both">I have been reusing my old vanilla syrup bottle, but I’ve reused a 750mL liquor bottle as well (for a simple syrup – the above minus the vanilla…great for sweet tea!) I’ve gotten <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" type="amzn" asin="B00DUOB5YI">this pump </a>and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" type="amzn" asin="B0016C2ON2">this pump</a> off of Amazon.</div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <h3>Perfect DIY Iced Coffee:</h3> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>-1 extra bold, dark roast K-cup (<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" type="amzn" asin="B004779XNW">regular</a> or <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" type="amzn" asin="B006N3I79Y">decaf</a>) brewed with 8-10 oz water</b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>-approx. 1/2 cup half and half or coffee creamer, to taste</b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>-approx, 6 pumps vanilla syrup, to taste</b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><br></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b>Fill large (28 oz.) cup with ice. Add half and half and syrup. Pour in hot coffee and stir vigorously (with reusable straw!) till the whole thing is cool. Enjoy a little bit of morning heaven. :)</b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both"><b><br> </b></div> <div class="separator" style="text-align: left; clear: both">This isn’t the cheapest way we’ve found to make our own iced coffee, but lately it’s proven to be the easiest and tastiest! Is coffee a part of your morning ritual? Brian drinks his iced, even in the dead of winter!</div> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-71039301781423741942015-10-20T09:27:00.000-05:002015-10-20T09:27:00.154-05:00Things I Love Tuesday: Jag Jeans<p>I used to do “<a href="http://frankfully.blogspot.com/search/label/things%20i%20love" target="_blank">Things I Love Thursday</a>”…but now the youngin’s do “Throwback Thursday”?? I don’t know, but I don’t want to confuse matters and who knows if I’ll actually remember to keep up these posts on Tuesdays anyhow.</p> <p>So anyway, Jag Jeans. I’m usually late to the party, so I don’t know if everyone already knows about these amazing jeans, but I love them and I want to spread the love.</p> <p><em>THEY HAVE ELASTIC WAISTS! </em></p> <p>Let me tell you the best part of being pregnant (besides eating all the cheeseburgers): It was the elastic waist pants. I didn’t want to give up that luxury just because my baby is on the outside now.</p> <p>And luckily a friend told me I don’t have to.</p> <p>They look like regular jeans…except they fit better and they stretch. And you don’t have to zip them. (I think Jag makes some zip jeans…who knows why. The “Pull On” is what you’re looking for here.)</p> <p>You can go get your size and style now at <a href="http://www.zappos.com/jag-jeans" target="_blank">Zappos</a> or <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/jag-jeans" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a> and usually <a href="http://www.amazon.com/JAG-Jeans/b?ie=UTF8&node=3032091011" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.</p> <p>Or you can be a cheapy like me and wait for your size and style to come on sale at <a href="http://www.6pm.com/jag-jeans" target="_blank">6pm.com</a> or <a href="http://www.sierratradingpost.com/s~jag-jeans/" target="_blank">Sierra Trading Post</a>. (You can always find coupon codes for Sierra Trading Post, too!) I pay an average of $25 a pair for these babies!</p> <p>(I got my first pair or 2 on Amazon – free shipping and free returns! Nothing to lose if you don’t like them or don’t like the size. Same with Zappos!)</p> <p>My favorites are the Paley bootcut (I’ve also got Keller bootcut and like them just fine) and the Nora skinny jean.</p> <p>You’re welcome.</p> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-2404104611963568482015-10-18T09:33:00.000-05:002015-10-18T09:33:00.230-05:00Coconut Pumpkin Pie and Scentsy<p>I’ve mentioned using some <a href="http://frankfully.blogspot.com/2013/04/candle-warmer-sale-scentsy-and-volcano.html" target="_blank">Scentsy things</a> before. <em>(Update, I didn’t end up loving that warmer I got. It was really small (cute, but small) and weirdly unlevel on the table. Womp womp. When I unpack it, I’ll post a picture.)</em></p> <p>I ended up getting a warmer I really like (from the sale section!). <em>(Then I hosted a party and got a few more. Ha!) </em>As I move through the seasons, I like to change out the scents. Well, September’s “Scent of the Month” was something called Coconut Pumpkin Pie – and it seriously makes me so happy, that I want to join Scentsy and buy 100 bars of it all for myself. I want to carry it in my pocket. I want to smell it when I’m stressed and when I’m happy and just all the time. It’s warm and sweet and cozy and homey. Seriously, what’s in this stuff? I don’t think I’ve ever had such a strong reaction to a scent before! </p> <p><img title="Scentsy_Casbah_Coconut_Pumpkin_Pie" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Scentsy_Casbah_Coconut_Pumpkin_Pie" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z_SGrN4oROM/ViM0mxtAu0I/AAAAAAAAkbw/8uVU5vXeY6s/Scentsy_Casbah_Coconut_Pumpkin_Pie%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="614"> </p> <p>Again, don’t want to sound like a paid advertisement, but I can’t get over how much I love this silly scent.</p> <p>And I’m totally serious about considering becoming a Scentsy consultant to share the magic of this with my friends! :)</p> <p>Is anyone else weirdly obsessed with a scent?</p> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-50597155404451562862015-10-17T09:43:00.000-05:002015-10-17T09:43:00.221-05:00Our House is on the Market!<p>So I didn’t really get to talk about this yet, so here it is. </p> <p>We love our house so much. We love its location – great street, great yard, great area, close to stores, etc etc. We love the house…after all, we’ve been customizing it to our tastes for 6 years now! I love its solitude. :)</p> <p>But things change, as always. My parents built a great house when I was finishing college, also in a great area, and on a piece of property that’s been in my family for 75 years. (Isn’t that cool? That doesn’t happen a lot nowadays.) My mom doesn’t want to live in that house by herself any more. At first, we thought we’d build her an in-law suite at our house, but when we looked at the costs and amount of work, we started to realize that making some changes at her house would make more sense, and we’d move in there.</p> <p>It’s going to be crazy. Mom: you and I better get along! But it will be great for her to be near Porcupine. And that house has a lot of great positives, too. A different kind of great location – very kid friendly. It’s a much newer house, so is better insulated, more efficient, etc. We’ll still be doing remodeling projects to fit our new family and lots of fun redecorating! And I get to design and build a whole new sewing room…mmmmmm…I’m sooooo excited!</p> <p>For now, here are the cool pro-photos of our house that accompany its online listing. (I will update our “house tour” with pictures I take myself!)</p> <p> <img title="front" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="front" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XRldIQVficI/ViEpWIeiI-I/AAAAAAAAkZI/-9RhWxy4vMw/front%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="living 1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="living 1" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NOYliKugCJE/ViEpWxdQbNI/AAAAAAAAkZM/MQ6khVMnct0/living%2525201%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="living 2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="living 2" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--xZY0eBocO8/ViEpXutqkCI/AAAAAAAAkZU/AvgS91FMOWU/living%2525202%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="living_kit" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="living_kit" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EV0PnQBtkvw/ViEpYRdjqeI/AAAAAAAAkZg/8q9QpNZFOgo/living_kit%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="living_kit 2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="living_kit 2" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IjuEyGYFk_4/ViEpZEQyEFI/AAAAAAAAkZo/TpkKOzanq3A/living_kit%2525202%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="kitchen" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="kitchen" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q31cuaJsssc/ViEpZ9YQogI/AAAAAAAAkZw/8HyFxsnJ9Jg/kitchen%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="bedroom" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="bedroom" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A1UCjHP20wU/ViEpa9KMVMI/AAAAAAAAkZ4/co0KMr7tWVM/bedroom%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="bathroom 1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="bathroom 1" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XqrOzuOVHEI/ViEpblAKisI/AAAAAAAAkaA/9avme7YAtdA/bathroom%2525201%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="bathroom 2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="bathroom 2" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1axe4fIFVeA/ViEpcY24-yI/AAAAAAAAkaI/texkYdiBZz4/bathroom%2525202%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> <img title="nursery" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="nursery" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UIMUAMsqJ1Y/ViEpdCKFa8I/AAAAAAAAkaQ/eJB-XCmHze4/nursery%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> </p> <p>Don’t you want to buy my house? ;) </p> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-28378756597009460692015-10-16T12:38:00.000-05:002015-10-16T12:38:00.601-05:00Blogging Reboot!<p>I’ve forever wanted to blog to just share some thoughts and ideas: things that I’m obsessing over, new things that I’ve discovered, things that I’ve learned. I think if you’re my friend, it will all just make sense to you...and if you’re not, you might just think I’m a little nuts. And really, who’s not? <p>But blogging is such a crazy place. <p>It’s so easy to want Pinterest-perfect posts and pictures, because I love Pinterest! <p>It’s easy to want to share stories and details about my family and my kid, but it’s also easy to be worried that some crazies on the Internet may somehow use the information in some weird, unknown way in the future. <p>It’s easy to try to want to try to create a blog that will become well-know for a specific genre (DIY, Lifestyle, Women’s, etc) that will please and inspire readers, but it’s also easy to want to just blog whatever comes to my mind, and I’m all over the place! <p>I wanted to blog to have some fun, share some (of my very opinionated) thoughts, and share some of my experience with projects etc...but then somehow it got “stressful” - with not wanting to post something till it’s perfect, and wanting to make sure the post was “on topic” and “complete,” and wanting to make sure it was not violating my family’s privacy. So then, I just didn’t post. But that’s no fun either! (I mean, plus, I haven’t had time!) <p>So I want to try to fix all that. I’m going to try a blogging reboot, where I am not worried about Pinterest-perfect and number of views of each post...I just want to chat with my friends and keep in touch with them. What can I say? I love hearing the sound of my own voice…(reading the font of my own typing?) Please excuse any pseudonyms or guarded pictures, etc...that is just my shielding my life a little from the Internet. But otherwise, I think this will be fun! <p> </p> <p align="center"><img title="blogging_freedom!" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="blogging_freedom!" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IYRvzRkBdKg/ViCNei1sNgI/AAAAAAAAkXg/tnHW786sKVU/DSC_0298%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"> <em>blogging freedom!</em></p> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-85806823872202420032015-10-15T22:47:00.001-05:002015-10-15T22:56:23.152-05:00Testing, Part 2<p dir="ltr">(I think part of me was a real go-getter at one time and set default image sizes etc on the blog...let's see if that recollection was correct.)</p>
<p dir="ltr">I saw this cool pillow at HomeGoods. I would love to recreate it and customize it as a gift this holiday season (who knows if I really will!). Isn't it a great sentiment? Something none of us should ever forget! </p>
<p dir="ltr">Don't forget to be awesome!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDCLeDbAKU6s5DAGRYxXBsti8LGtFBZNJqTRfhyphenhyphenC0akCKzkaVI2utc7e6kUlh_virZfoGjP05PNFQATG00h6x1xDt2lImaDITSkhujFFNcROQhk9D2DhHuYa9L_LDnOrEw8iIzQdqHOlU/s1600/20150925_151437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDCLeDbAKU6s5DAGRYxXBsti8LGtFBZNJqTRfhyphenhyphenC0akCKzkaVI2utc7e6kUlh_virZfoGjP05PNFQATG00h6x1xDt2lImaDITSkhujFFNcROQhk9D2DhHuYa9L_LDnOrEw8iIzQdqHOlU/s640/20150925_151437.jpg"> </a> </div>Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-3940281894571999752015-10-15T22:39:00.001-05:002015-10-15T22:39:52.323-05:00Testing, testing...<p dir="ltr">I really want to try to post more...and have fun with this blog as I originally intended. I'm going to try to test a few things to make blogging easier...and try not to worry about creating "Pinterest-perfect" posts! We'll see how it goes...</p>
<p dir="ltr">In the meantime, here's a post from my phone. Let's see how it looks!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisa796GPuoO44MJdebnwpu7wbHyWiuM_8m-OIVpB_mMaasNqXsjXl95w6eMlyx8DNgifSajPrIF9Bn2pqcC0VllNJob_5ZZD8ZwwFB4YbZ1YoQFPZlsNQG8FAf_cBVBIosu27CSGNgyBE/s1600/20150922_110203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisa796GPuoO44MJdebnwpu7wbHyWiuM_8m-OIVpB_mMaasNqXsjXl95w6eMlyx8DNgifSajPrIF9Bn2pqcC0VllNJob_5ZZD8ZwwFB4YbZ1YoQFPZlsNQG8FAf_cBVBIosu27CSGNgyBE/s640/20150922_110203.jpg"> </a> </div>Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-39746216229118630972015-07-23T12:48:00.000-05:002015-07-23T12:48:00.083-05:00Semi-Annual Check-in :)<p>There is a lot going on over here, and when I get a chance to open my computer without a baby banging on the keys (so…in a few years? Hahaha) I have a lot to say!</p> <p>We’re in the process of moving back to our hometown, (a pretty unexpected life change for us – but hey, what parts of life aren’t unexpected!), so I’d like to actually post some “finished” pictures of rooms (the nursery!) and some thoughts on some of the renovations we’ve done after living with them for a while, as well as some posts about things we’re doing to get our house on the market. Oh well, the posts will come in good time. One day I’ll hopefully blog so much my fingers will fall off.</p> <p>For now, I’ll cheat and just post some baby pictures I’ve been taking since Porcupine turned one…</p> <p><img title="baby's_first_quarter" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="baby's_first_quarter" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qxrnGr9wPP4/VbCCdP12NhI/AAAAAAAAi4I/crHgvi8qlJw/babys_first_quarter2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="614"> </p> <p>Our move is certainly not something we were planning on – I thought I’d be in this house forever! And I was accumulating stuff with that mindset :) I’ve been reading (and <a type="amzn" asin="B00RC3ZGN4">listening to</a>) and re-reading/listening to <em><a type="amzn" asin="978-1607747307"><em>The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up </em></a></em>by Marie Kondo, and it is making a HUGE difference in what I’m getting rid of and how I plan to approach moving into, fixing up, and decorating our new house. I can’t wait to share the journey! (if I get the chance!)</p> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-19534773319412669932015-02-14T16:15:00.001-06:002015-02-14T16:15:33.627-06:00Happy Valentine’s Day!<p>Apparently, I’ll check in every 3 months :) </p> <p>I have so much to say, but with a little baby and the rest of life, I’ll just have to stick with: I can’t believe that my little Porcupine is about to turn 1 year old. It’s totally surreal and the panic is setting in. It’s hard to believe that last year on <a href="http://frankfully.blogspot.com/2014/07/nursery-in-progress.html" target="_blank">Valentine’s Day</a>, I was pregnant and doing some touch up painting in his nursery and our friend was putting together his crib.</p> <p>And here he is this Valentine’s Day!</p> <p><img title="DSC_0127" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="DSC_0127" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xLOgEH7ZoV4/VN_JBHeJTCI/AAAAAAAAcxU/Z5hN81HNf_8/DSC_0127%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="408"> </p> <p>I’m looking forward to/dreading his birthday in 3 days! :)</p> <p>Happy Valentine’s Day!</p> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4003736609609039129.post-13206950996753933552014-11-24T09:38:00.000-06:002015-02-14T16:27:08.299-06:00A 3-Month Update<p>Time is just flying by! Porcupine is 9 months old and I can hardly believe it. The holidays are coming and then this little guy will be turning one! Everything is a whirlwind, and sometimes I wish I could slow down time (not at night though, because my little guy is always keeping me up!) I have so many ideas floating around, blog posts half written, and baby crafts and projects just waiting to come to life, but none of it seems to happen. Oh well! I will just keep trucking along. :)</p> <p>In the meantime, here is a quick recap of the past 3 months.</p> <p>Baby’s first time in Lake Michigan:</p> <p><img title="toes in the lake" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="toes in the lake" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-upChh5NJ0Bo/VHLSmOAZyXI/AAAAAAAAZnk/vwY-VeEfWA8/DSCF3719%252520%2525282%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="575"> </p> <p>Crawling all over the place and standing up on things:</p> <p><img title="standing up!" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="standing up!" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YwLcJ7DyMJ8/VHLSmyVb5_I/AAAAAAAAZns/4UPmOlr2er4/DSCF2173%252520%2525282%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="614"> </p> <p>First Halloween (and I made his costume!):</p> <p><img title="my little jack-o-lantern" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="my little jack-o-lantern" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wfkgrD-IO-c/VHLSnxmIroI/AAAAAAAAZn0/xJyE1Gm9mTg/DSC_0365%252520copy%252520%2525283%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </p> <p>And getting ready for winter (thanks, <a href="http://togetherwechange.com" target="_blank">Janis</a>!)</p> <p><img title="baby in snowsuit" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="baby in snowsuit" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZKyZISPBVOY/VHLSoaCqGmI/AAAAAAAAZn8/deEmRJ7j4LY/DSC_0777-001%252520%2525282%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="462"> </p> <p>So excited to see what the next 3 months have in store! ;)</p> Victoria @ Frankfullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628046003242327327noreply@blogger.com0