tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21914796809778489522024-03-13T04:52:58.685-07:00The French NestLà où le Tour Eiffel est seulement un rêve loin...The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.comBlogger188125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-51602716150597845592010-05-09T13:49:00.001-07:002010-05-09T14:08:41.304-07:00Happy Mother's Day<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S-ckFIm0ihI/AAAAAAAABZk/NYegF1OOU7w/s1600/022.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469379943093013010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S-ckFIm0ihI/AAAAAAAABZk/NYegF1OOU7w/s320/022.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">Happy Mother's Day to all the mums out in blogging land.<br /></div><div align="center">A very special Mother's Day wish goes to my beautiful, wonderful, creative, talented, camera-happy <a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/">mum</a>. Thank YOU for all that you do. </div><br /><div align="center">I count my blessings everyday that YOU are my mum!</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">xo Kate</div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-48629923443055501432010-02-19T11:34:00.001-08:002010-02-19T11:59:50.577-08:00A Few Last Details...<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tQzKsKOI/AAAAAAAABZc/NX9e_1A897k/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440046272778873058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tQzKsKOI/AAAAAAAABZc/NX9e_1A897k/s320/003.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:85%;">New drapes from IKEA</span></div><div align="center"><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tQDj90oI/AAAAAAAABZU/oPk0xouS7XM/s1600-h/009.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440046259999986306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 256px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tQDj90oI/AAAAAAAABZU/oPk0xouS7XM/s320/009.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:85%;">Venetian mirror</span><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tP8R7QnI/AAAAAAAABZM/CaRpxY1EMJo/s1600-h/006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440046258045272690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 236px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tP8R7QnI/AAAAAAAABZM/CaRpxY1EMJo/s320/006.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:85%;">French nest</span><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tPO-SEgI/AAAAAAAABZE/D-cj2MR3nqI/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440046245883286018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 148px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tPO-SEgI/AAAAAAAABZE/D-cj2MR3nqI/s320/001.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> Message Board</span><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tOd-RjnI/AAAAAAAABY8/9WbqH8g28A4/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440046232729914994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 241px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S37tOd-RjnI/AAAAAAAABY8/9WbqH8g28A4/s320/010.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Ralph - I'm 25 and he still travels everywhere with me</span> <div align="center"><br /><br /><div align="center">I've had a busy couple of months, and thought I would drop a few lines from the nest...</div><br /><br /><div align="center">The condo is starting to look more and more like "home" - I recently had all of my friends and family over for a housewarming and it was nice to show off the nest to everyone! I'm so happy with the way everything turned out, and couldn't possibly have finished it without my <a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/">mum'</a>s decorating flair and dad's mastery of all things carpentry/plumbing/electrical - related.</div><br /><br /><div align="center">All that is left now is the back splash - I'll post pictures in a few weeks of the finished product!<br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-62986117140189384152010-01-17T11:35:00.000-08:002010-01-17T11:44:22.999-08:00Happy Birthday, Mum<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S1Nn-FX2XpI/AAAAAAAABYM/WmkGb3Lim_Q/s1600-h/sepiagirl.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427796292203339410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 258px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/S1Nn-FX2XpI/AAAAAAAABYM/WmkGb3Lim_Q/s320/sepiagirl.bmp" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;">Beautiful sepia image from Dawn @ <a href="http://the-feathered-nest.blogspot.com/">The Feathered Nest</a></span><br /><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts. ~Washington Irving</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Happy 50th birthday, mum. Thank you for being not only my mother but my best friend, mentor, confidante, and partner in crime. I love you.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Love, Kate</div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-28592528497241147832010-01-02T13:18:00.000-08:002010-01-02T13:25:33.903-08:00Happy New Year!<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sz-5jZAJEYI/AAAAAAAABYE/ua6kv3VUSbA/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422256494035407234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sz-5jZAJEYI/AAAAAAAABYE/ua6kv3VUSbA/s320/003.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Douggie</span> </div><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sz-5jBx_pGI/AAAAAAAABX8/3E_32OdPodo/s1600-h/018.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422256487802053730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sz-5jBx_pGI/AAAAAAAABX8/3E_32OdPodo/s320/018.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Angelo</span><br /><br /><div align="center">It is hard to believe 2010 is already upon us. I began putting a few of the Christmas decorations away today, although I can't quite bring myself to take the ornaments off of the tree as of yet. I also thought it was necessary to dress the boys up in their Christmas costumes before they were packed away.</div><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">The Ginger Boys and I want to wish you all a very Happy New Year! I hope 2010 brings you all much love, laughter, happiness and inspiration.</div><div align="center"> </div><br /></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-44612579500118768062009-12-26T08:00:00.001-08:002009-12-26T08:11:31.827-08:00Merry Christmas<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SzYzgVTQnWI/AAAAAAAABX0/0ceeiCdgRRA/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419575832153726306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SzYzgVTQnWI/AAAAAAAABX0/0ceeiCdgRRA/s320/003.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SzYzgMUQo3I/AAAAAAAABXs/uM0JemzUkhE/s1600-h/005.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419575829742003058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SzYzgMUQo3I/AAAAAAAABXs/uM0JemzUkhE/s320/005.JPG" border="0" /></a> Merry Christmas!</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">These are a few little gift baskets I put together for friends that I'll be handing out this weekend. One of my friends loves baking and cooking as much as I do, so I put together a retro-inspired basket to help get her started in the New Year. It is complete with bistro-style apron, cupcake liners, green melamine measuring cups, cute cardboard coasters, baking essentials (whisk, spatula), recipe cards and a retro canvas for her to hang up in her kitchen which I hope will bring her good luck while she bakes! </div><div align="center">The other two baskets have the cutest little teapots inside - one with a funky 60's pattern on it, and the other with a blue bird - both are filled with herbal teas.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">I was spoiled rotten this year...I guess I must have been on the 'good girl' list ;-)</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and that Santa brought you everything on your wish list!</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><br /><br /> </div><div align="center"></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-84710790718907511042009-10-18T14:06:00.000-07:002009-10-19T06:32:05.130-07:00'I'm a Flea Marketeer' Party<div align="center">I recently visited one of my favourite blogs ~<a href="http://fleamarketstylemag.blogspot.com/">Flea Market Style</a>~ and was thrilled to hear that the 'flea marketeers' were hosting their inaugural 'I'm a flea marketeer' party!</div><div align="center">Being a huge fan of flea markets, antique shops and garage sales, I have acquired some beautiful junk over the last several years. So much 'junk' , in fact, that I was able to fully furnish the condo I recently bought this past Summer. </div><div align="center">The cats and I are settling in to our new 'French Nest' quite nicely.</div><div align="center">Here are a few sneak peaks of some treasures that have found their way into my nest ...</div><div align="left"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/StxossnxTYI/AAAAAAAABXk/ZjsuQ3N5D1s/s1600-h/013.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394301570784513410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 243px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/StxossnxTYI/AAAAAAAABXk/ZjsuQ3N5D1s/s320/013.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/StxosHnMm7I/AAAAAAAABXc/tq-xlvcfvjw/s1600-h/017.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394301560849996722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 162px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/StxosHnMm7I/AAAAAAAABXc/tq-xlvcfvjw/s320/017.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/StxorR_SNwI/AAAAAAAABXU/V6C7psUIsZE/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394301546455512834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/StxorR_SNwI/AAAAAAAABXU/V6C7psUIsZE/s320/010.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Stxoqyjn6dI/AAAAAAAABXM/G_KlzNbMrcU/s1600-h/008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394301538017995218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 272px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Stxoqyjn6dI/AAAAAAAABXM/G_KlzNbMrcU/s320/008.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/StxoqYJQOkI/AAAAAAAABXE/ZC8iGIVY3d0/s1600-h/007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394301530928069186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 212px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/StxoqYJQOkI/AAAAAAAABXE/ZC8iGIVY3d0/s320/007.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div><div><div><div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-4259992868320686442009-10-08T14:10:00.001-07:002009-10-08T14:27:36.170-07:00Happy Birthday Ginger Boys!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Ss5ZJXKXsyI/AAAAAAAABVE/H2RfAUlmGF4/s1600-h/angelosleeping.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390343821380268834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Ss5ZJXKXsyI/AAAAAAAABVE/H2RfAUlmGF4/s320/angelosleeping.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Ss5Y_5W4LBI/AAAAAAAABU8/ixWxbDb1Ocw/s1600-h/douggie+%26+mr+rat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390343658760842258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Ss5Y_5W4LBI/AAAAAAAABU8/ixWxbDb1Ocw/s320/douggie+%26+mr+rat.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div align="center">Happy Birthday to you, </div><br /><div align="center">Happy Birthday to you,<br /></div><div align="center">Happy Birthday Douggie (GiGi) and Angelo (LouLou),</div><br /><div align="center">Happy Birthday to youuuuuuuuu.......</div><br /><div align="center">This past Monday my dear, sweet, ginger fur-babies celebrated their 3rd (Douggie) and 2nd (Angelo) birthdays, and they celebrated in style! Although I managed to sneak birthday crowns on both of them while they were sleeping, they both woke up just as I turned the camera on and immediately threw them off their heads in horror just at the thought that I would even THINK of putting such a girly item on their boyish frames! So, alas, I wasn't able to snap a picture of my adorable boys in their celebratory crowns. I don't blame them, really...all I had left to make the crowns out of was some leftover pink paper, lace and rhinestones...and boys are never thrilled at the idea of having to prance around on their birthdays in crowns for photo-ops.</div><br /><br /><div align="center">I bought lots of their favourite treats, made them a scrumptious birthday dinner of grilled salmon and bought them a felt mouse that, upon pulling its tail, runs around the room, enticing the 'hunter' in my ginger babies.</div><br /><br /><div align="center">At school, I feel like such a 'mom' - I brag about them, share stories about their antics, show off pics (I have the accordian-like wallet filled with their pictures)...I really am a proud 'mom'. I am so lucky to have these boys in my life!</div><div align="center"> </div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-18098633375118790392009-09-19T07:22:00.000-07:002009-09-19T07:30:32.182-07:00Saturday Morning Garage Sales<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SrTqqOz56fI/AAAAAAAABU0/emm8Z5gs-go/s1600-h/004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383185465865791986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SrTqqOz56fI/AAAAAAAABU0/emm8Z5gs-go/s320/004.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SrTqQ1trQBI/AAAAAAAABUs/KqdArX9earo/s1600-h/002.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383185029632049170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SrTqQ1trQBI/AAAAAAAABUs/KqdArX9earo/s320/002.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">In the midst of renovating, unpacking and getting settled into my new place, I realized I have lots of floor space, but very few decorative carpets and while I absolutely love the look of hardwood flooring, there is nothing more comforting then seeing a few beautiful wool rugs adorning a room. <a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/">Mum</a> and I did our usual garage sale hunt this morning, and stumbled across this beautiful shabby chic, Rachel Ashwell-inspired rug, adorned with pink flowers. I think it will look gorgeous underneath my IKEA white dining room set. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">I also couldn't resist picking up these two beautiful queenly wire and brass crowns, and a small antique cup which will look perfect filled with a few cosmos or daisies and placed on my bathroom vanity.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Now, I am off to read <a href="http://www.shabbychic.com/">Rachel Ashwell's </a>book "The Gift of Giving" and be inspired!</div><div align="center"> </div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-43616980605308698762009-09-13T08:30:00.001-07:002009-09-13T09:02:36.903-07:00The 'Before' Photos<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WJO1GzWI/AAAAAAAABUk/HQoV-9OmOwM/s1600-h/007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380981477633084770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WJO1GzWI/AAAAAAAABUk/HQoV-9OmOwM/s320/007.JPG" border="0" /></a> BEFORE: Hall Closet<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WIhJyHQI/AAAAAAAABUc/ObgES6_Z9Qo/s1600-h/008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380981465371778306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WIhJyHQI/AAAAAAAABUc/ObgES6_Z9Qo/s320/008.JPG" border="0" /></a>BEFORE: Living Room (complete with all of our tools!)<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WIEykLwI/AAAAAAAABUU/qEQzXIQaa6Y/s1600-h/014.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380981457758203650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WIEykLwI/AAAAAAAABUU/qEQzXIQaa6Y/s320/014.JPG" border="0" /></a> BEFORE: Kitchen (complete with avocado green counter top)<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WHk4_ffI/AAAAAAAABUM/Tdw0mICwiz0/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380981449195224562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WHk4_ffI/AAAAAAAABUM/Tdw0mICwiz0/s320/010.JPG" border="0" /></a>BEFORE: Bathroom<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WG8LtAUI/AAAAAAAABUE/P6QlPyFLiOg/s1600-h/020.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380981438267851074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sq0WG8LtAUI/AAAAAAAABUE/P6QlPyFLiOg/s320/020.JPG" border="0" /></a>Of course, Douggie was a HUGE help with the unpacking...<br /><br /><br /><div align="center">Hi everyone! Wow...I can't believe it has been almost two months since my last post. My absence can be explained by one thing, and one thing only....I purchased my first condo two months ago and I have been working tirelessly with my <a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/">mum</a> and dad since then! I am so fortunate to have two incredibly talented parents who have helped me turn this place from a student's bachelor pad to a show home...or rather, show condo. Everything but the kitchen sink (literally) was pulled out and replaced with more eco-friendly, energy-efficient and updated fixtures, appliances, flooring, and lighting fixtures.</div><br /><br /><div align="center">The major challenge of all had to have been the walls. The previous owners had painted every square inch of the place with a dirty roller, leaving behind clumps of paint which required lots of scraping, sanding and cleaning. We ended up painting the walls a colour called <a href="http://www.myperfectcolor.com/Match-of-ICI-2001-Antique-White-Rm-p/mpc0086671.htm">"Antique White"</a> which looks clean, fresh and completely changes the aura of the condo...it is so warm and inviting now. Then, it was on to the flooring...think '60s peel-and-stick retro tile underneath '80s blue carpeting...which was ripped up and replaced with dark chocolate brown hardwood flooring throughout. New shelving was placed in the closets, and bamboo blinds were put in (replacing blue venetian and vertical blinds). In the kitchen, a new counter top and faucet were installed, the cabinets were painted, and new drawer and cabinet pulls (purchased from <a href="http://www.leevalley.com/home.aspx">Lee Valley</a>) were attached. I am just awaiting the delivery of my beautiful <a href="http://www.frigidaire.com/products/kitchen-appliances">Frigidaire</a> stove to make my dream kitchen complete!</div><br /><br /><div align="center">A few finishing touches have to be made in the bathroom (including new tile on the floor, lighting and a brand new bathroom vanity which looks a lot like the one <a href="http://www.nationalbuildersupply.com/products.aspx?product=LegionFurniture_BC082&finish=White%20Top/White%20Base&source=become">here</a>) alongside a few pictures and my venetian mirror which have to be hung on the walls, but other than that we are ready for business. I'm glad to have some free time on my hands to get back to posting on my blog, and I hope I never have to stay away that long again! I missed you all and am looking forward to hearing your feedback on the changes, as well as hearing about your summer vacations and plans for the Fall!</div><br />P.S. Stay tuned for the 'AFTER' photos...I can't wait to share them with you!<br /><div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-36728629072537022832009-07-19T11:08:00.001-07:002009-07-19T11:17:26.707-07:00Farmer's Market<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SmNjIK4CSUI/AAAAAAAABT8/VCQdvb52cKI/s1600-h/Farmers+Market+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360236973510510914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 242px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SmNjIK4CSUI/AAAAAAAABT8/VCQdvb52cKI/s320/Farmers+Market+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SmNjHvw5IHI/AAAAAAAABT0/IA2xwDqwjuk/s1600-h/Farmers+Market.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360236966232793202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 242px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SmNjHvw5IHI/AAAAAAAABT0/IA2xwDqwjuk/s320/Farmers+Market.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div align="center">Yesterday morning a friend and I decided to visit the farmer's market for breakfast and to pick up a few 'essential' items for a picnic we had planned. Although the weather was a bit dismal, the cheerful atmosphere inside the market quickly perked us up (as did the coffee). We did some browsing (there was so much to look at), flipped through the pages of organic cookbooks, listened to the musicians playing in the background, sampled the organic food items, then picked up a few different cheeses, a baguette, salad, and of course, dessert - small raspberry-rhubarb gallette tartlets. After our picnic, we made our way to the park to take in the smooth sounds of some local folk bands - they were fabulous. Afterwards, we met up with a few friends who are moving out of the city for one last dinner together.</div><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><br /><div align="center">"Friends are the most important ingredient in this recipe of life"</div><br /><br /><div align="center">(Anonymous)</div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-66476406467623453512009-07-10T15:50:00.000-07:002009-07-10T16:00:39.066-07:00Renewal of Vows<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHgT9rtmI/AAAAAAAABTs/W5RzLrcx3d0/s1600-h/B%26N15.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356969639709226594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHgT9rtmI/AAAAAAAABTs/W5RzLrcx3d0/s320/B%26N15.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHgC8EQII/AAAAAAAABTk/CsLCbAPtuO4/s1600-h/B%26N13.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356969635139043458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 244px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHgC8EQII/AAAAAAAABTk/CsLCbAPtuO4/s320/B%26N13.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHf_rkOTI/AAAAAAAABTc/dAaoOrLZ3nw/s1600-h/B%26N14.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356969634264529202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 243px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHf_rkOTI/AAAAAAAABTc/dAaoOrLZ3nw/s320/B%26N14.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHfWIytMI/AAAAAAAABTU/WW-M_BebPEs/s1600-h/B%26N10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356969623112824002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHfWIytMI/AAAAAAAABTU/WW-M_BebPEs/s320/B%26N10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHfH0z05I/AAAAAAAABTM/9OeVjEj8gxo/s1600-h/B%26N3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356969619270914962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 248px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SlfHfH0z05I/AAAAAAAABTM/9OeVjEj8gxo/s320/B%26N3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">This past weekend I was fortunate enough to be present at a renewal of vows. The bride and groom were married a year ago in a small ceremony with only parents, and then decided that it would be wonderful to have another ceremony a year later to renew their vows and celebrate their one year anniversary with close friends and family. </div><br /><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">They couldn't have asked for more perfect weather or a more picturesque location. The ceremony was held outside, followed by the reception, and then it was on to bigger and better things...lots of food, incredibly hilarious (and at times, embarrassing) stories and speeches involving the bride and groom told by their friends and parents, followed by plenty of dancing (did I mention they also had a candy table I raided?)</div><br /><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">I wish them many more years of happiness together!</div></div></div></div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-65205532181803485752009-07-04T11:38:00.000-07:002009-07-04T11:55:31.490-07:00The King of Pop<div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sk-iU90A9BI/AAAAAAAABS8/sqgXTYLVd0o/s1600-h/MJ.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354676963040621586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sk-iU90A9BI/AAAAAAAABS8/sqgXTYLVd0o/s320/MJ.jpg" border="0" /></a> Being a child of the '80s I was fortunate enough to grow up listening to the sweet sounds of Michael Jackson. One of my earliest memories was sitting on the couch (felt glove on one hand from the 99 cent store, bedazzled with rhinestones) waiting for "Thriller" to come on MTV so I could mimic the magnificent footwork of MJ. I practiced the moonwalk, the point, the spin, the body wave, the open arm stance with billowing top (I needed to stand in front of the air conditioning vent for that one)...everything short of the (crotch) "grab", basically. Oh the memories.....</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">This afternoon, Mum and I visited a local music shop and reminisced as we went through all of Michael's c.d.s and d.v.d's. We purchased two, and have been dancing ever since. Yesterday, a good friend of mine (and also a big Michael Jackson fan since childhood), was married and MJ's music played all night long...</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Last week, we lost a musical genius and an icon who will go down in history as being the greatest musician, dancer and singer that ever lived....the King of Pop....who will live on in his fantastic, ground-breaking music. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Some of my favourite Michael Jackson music includes:</div><br /><div align="center"><em>Thriller</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Bad</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Rock with You</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Don't Stop 'Til You get Enough</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Billie Jean</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Beat It</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>I Just Can't Stop Loving You</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Smooth Criminal</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>The Way You Make Me Feel</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Man in the Mirror</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>You Rock My World</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Break of Dawn</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Ben</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>I Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em>Human Nature</em></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">In fact, I think I'll go play some of them now...<br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-43777936595140121592009-06-24T10:04:00.000-07:002009-06-24T10:16:45.094-07:00Exciting Announcement!<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SkJc7sL1Z1I/AAAAAAAABS0/u278a59drb4/s1600-h/053.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350941487812405074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SkJc7sL1Z1I/AAAAAAAABS0/u278a59drb4/s320/053.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong><em>The view from my window</em></strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">I am *officially* a condo owner! After learning that I had been accepted into a Ph.D program in March, I have spent the last few months condo "shopping" and have found the perfect place to call home and build my nest. Its proximity to campus, spacious living/dining area, and the gorgeous view were the main attractions that sold me. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">I've been looking at everything from sofas and chaises, to kitchen appliances and lighting fixtures, making scrapbooks of some of my favourite things from <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/">Pottery Barn </a>and <a href="http://www.ikea.com/ca/en">IKEA</a>. I'm really looking forward to decorating it in the next few weeks and calling it my own. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">I know Douggie, Angelo and I will love it here!<br /></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-10833143832995472532009-03-13T16:43:00.001-07:002009-03-13T16:56:15.821-07:00A Trip to Town Shoes<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sbrwl8Kjm0I/AAAAAAAABSs/usa-xhg_w_4/s1600-h/Shoes+020.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312823245033151298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/Sbrwl8Kjm0I/AAAAAAAABSs/usa-xhg_w_4/s320/Shoes+020.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbrwloLVeqI/AAAAAAAABSk/eRalWaEa01M/s1600-h/Shoes+019.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312823239667710626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbrwloLVeqI/AAAAAAAABSk/eRalWaEa01M/s320/Shoes+019.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbrwlWKPqVI/AAAAAAAABSc/nHZnCNal_PQ/s1600-h/Shoes+018.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312823234831296850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbrwlWKPqVI/AAAAAAAABSc/nHZnCNal_PQ/s320/Shoes+018.JPG" border="0" /></a> A trip to Town Shoes is always a lethal expedition for any woman...particularly when that woman is a shop/shoe-aholic! My girlfriends and I make Friday's "girl days" or "girl nights out" and this particularly Friday we have planned to do both! We went shopping during the afternoon and are heading out to a bistro tonight for dinner and drinks to catch up after a very long week of classes.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">As you can probably tell from the zebra print design, these pumps immediately caught my eye: a) because they're flashy b) because they are fluorescent pink underneath and c) because they were part of the Barbie 50th Anniversary collection. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">What can I say...I HAD to have them, and I can't wait to wear them out tonight!<br /><br /></div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-45443051500386175132009-03-10T07:38:00.000-07:002009-03-10T07:58:22.016-07:00New Additions to the Family<div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbZ_w9oL1eI/AAAAAAAABSU/OBbInSWTsAU/s1600-h/Douggie+and+Angelo+033.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311573289683637730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbZ_w9oL1eI/AAAAAAAABSU/OBbInSWTsAU/s320/Douggie+and+Angelo+033.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:85%;">The boys doing what they do best...napping</span><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbZ_wT6qFAI/AAAAAAAABSM/YAMMANr6DZE/s1600-h/Douggie+and+Angelo+022.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311573278486828034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbZ_wT6qFAI/AAAAAAAABSM/YAMMANr6DZE/s320/Douggie+and+Angelo+022.JPG" border="0" /></a>Angelo<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbZ_vh9A4DI/AAAAAAAABSE/pwdJr4h_l4o/s1600-h/Douggie+and+Angelo+015.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311573265074937906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SbZ_vh9A4DI/AAAAAAAABSE/pwdJr4h_l4o/s320/Douggie+and+Angelo+015.JPG" border="0" /></a>Douggie<br /><br /><br /><div align="center">Well, it's official...I am the proud mama of two beautiful cats, Angelo and Douggie. </div><br /><br /><div align="center">A friend of mine has parents who own a beautiful farm that just happens to be infiltrated with cats...the most beautiful, well behaved cats you could ever imagine. I picked these two gorgeous boys out and we've been getting acquainted over the past couple of days. So far, I know that Douggie is the leader...he loves taking naps on my bed (and the kitchen counter). He's also fascinated by the computer and laptop. He loves leaping up on ledges and knocking things over. He follows me around like Ben used to. He's also partial to sleeping behind the microwave. His favourite toys are his felt fishy.</div><br /><br /><div align="center">Angelo is a tad more complicated...he likes to hide behind the fridge most afternoons, then come alive in the early morning hours. He is much more shy then Douggie. His favourite corner is in my hall closet where I have a basket and fleece blanket set up. He loves plunking himself on my duvet and getting his belly rubbed. Did I also mention I've been feeding them dinner while on my duvet? It gives a whole new meaning to 'breakfast in bed'. I'm pretty sure both of them have me pegged as a 'sucker' already, and they know they have me wrapped around their little paws.</div><br /><br /><div align="center">I am so excited to have these little guys join our family, and I can't wait to play the role of 'proud mama' and give you reports on how they're doing!</div><div align="center"> </div></div><br /></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-21604939647080606692009-02-14T15:49:00.001-08:002009-02-14T16:58:50.492-08:00Love is in the Air...<div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SZdYwdwUwPI/AAAAAAAABR8/4FaJ80oeLrw/s1600-h/014.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302804675896328434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 244px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SZdYwdwUwPI/AAAAAAAABR8/4FaJ80oeLrw/s320/014.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#cc0000;"> <strong><span style="font-size:78%;">A Valentine from <a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/">mum</a></span></strong><br /></span><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SZdYwCmFQAI/AAAAAAAABR0/QcnBZjIKHjg/s1600-h/013.JPG"></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="color:#cc0000;"><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></span></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">WISHING YOU A HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!</span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">XOXO Kate</span></strong></div><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff6666;">I claim there ain't</span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#ff6666;">Another Saint</span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#ff6666;">As great as Valentine</span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#ff6666;">~Ogden Nash</span></strong></div><strong><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span></strong><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SZdYwNpEl7I/AAAAAAAABRs/W4uej1eOgvM/s1600-h/012.JPG"></a></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-5642853481271648232009-02-02T15:08:00.001-08:002009-02-02T15:21:50.190-08:00Happy Birthday To Me<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SYd__OTUKgI/AAAAAAAABRI/uKn4Oge7f6o/s1600-h/CupKates+.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298344210772273666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 245px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SYd__OTUKgI/AAAAAAAABRI/uKn4Oge7f6o/s320/CupKates+.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">I spent a few days at home to celebrate my 24th birthday last weekend. It was great to spend time with my family and friends, open presents, eat lots of junk food and have a valid excuse, and, of course, indulge in some cupcakes.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">I received some fabulous presents, might I add, including clothes + chocolate + magazines + flowers and.....a pair of "Michelle Obama" green leather gloves from Banana Republic! (I'll post that picture later...it really deserves a post of its own!) We spent the rest of my birthday week (yes, I allocate an entire week for birthday fun) skiing and skating...fabulous!</div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-20179690975738107822009-01-04T16:49:00.000-08:002009-01-05T13:19:47.458-08:00Vintage Hat (and the beginning of a new collection...)<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SWJ5VFElBLI/AAAAAAAABLI/vVZAxZw-ugU/s1600-h/vintagehat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287922315531977906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 245px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SWJ5VFElBLI/AAAAAAAABLI/vVZAxZw-ugU/s320/vintagehat.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">One of my Christmas gifts was a vintage hat my <a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/">mum</a> picked up for me at a second-hand shop. I had mentioned in the summer, after visiting antique shops in both Stratford and Niagara-on-the-lake, that I wanted to start a collection after seeing hundreds of them - everything from your everyday run-of-the-mill hat from the '40s (complete with white gloves, of course), to wedding veil caps from the '60s and more dressy caps like the one mum found for me (complete with glittery shine and black veil). </div><br /><p align="center"><br />I don't know if I could pull the look off, (or maybe there's a chance of them coming back into 'style' this summer/fall?) but I might just have to try it on, if only to dance around the house...</p><p align="center"> </p>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-45769660808355535152009-01-01T09:16:00.001-08:002009-01-01T09:22:44.444-08:00Happy New Year!<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVz6mihDp9I/AAAAAAAABLA/DWtLbYTY4HQ/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286375602633549778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVz6mihDp9I/AAAAAAAABLA/DWtLbYTY4HQ/s320/003.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:85%;">Homemade crackers which we will pull tonight during our New Years Dinner</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVz6mS4yh5I/AAAAAAAABK4/JHcGBzXz4_c/s1600-h/002.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286375598438123410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVz6mS4yh5I/AAAAAAAABK4/JHcGBzXz4_c/s320/002.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">"For last year's words belong to last year's language.</div><div align="center">And next year's words await another voice.</div><div align="center">And to make an end is to make a beginning"</div><div align="center">~T.S. Eliot</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Happy New Year!</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Wishing you all health and happiness in 2009! </div><div align="center"> </div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-42170909978853864602008-12-29T08:27:00.000-08:002008-12-31T10:03:05.201-08:00Christmas Gifts<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVuzf79jujI/AAAAAAAABKo/IzOvZLcs3lo/s1600-h/mixer.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286015948902611506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 260px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVuzf79jujI/AAAAAAAABKo/IzOvZLcs3lo/s320/mixer.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">My Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer in Black Onyx</span> </div><div align="center"><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVj71X7r65I/AAAAAAAABKY/8KNC8UZ-RzI/s1600-h/007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285251057095273362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVj71X7r65I/AAAAAAAABKY/8KNC8UZ-RzI/s320/007.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;">A beautiful pillow made by my mum</span><br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVj70RFh_6I/AAAAAAAABKI/7_ZLRSTYobc/s1600-h/005.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285251038077648802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVj70RFh_6I/AAAAAAAABKI/7_ZLRSTYobc/s320/005.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">My iPOD nano<br /></span><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVj70FNjIdI/AAAAAAAABKA/EaBg2Sz8p5I/s1600-h/004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285251034890052050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVj70FNjIdI/AAAAAAAABKA/EaBg2Sz8p5I/s320/004.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Mini Moisturizing Kit</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVj70DWZgWI/AAAAAAAABJ4/epd0bICFv88/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285251034390298978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVj70DWZgWI/AAAAAAAABJ4/epd0bICFv88/s320/003.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:78%;">A little glitz for my cupcakes...</span></div><br /><br /><div>As per usual, I was very spoiled Christmas Day. Santa brought me everything I had asked for...and then some! I received some beautiful handmade gifts made with love by my <a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/">mum</a>, including a gorgeous pillow complete with sepia transfers (you can purchase these at <a href="http://www.michaels.com/art/online/home">Michael's</a> and they are absolutely fabulous for updating pillows or tote bags). My brother bought me an iPOD (in my favourite colour), loaded with all of my favourite songs, and a sprinkle set for my cakes/cupcakes which will give them a little glitz! </div><br /><br /><div></div><div>My stocking was stuffed with chocolates, gift certificates and mini spa-essentials, including a mini-moisturizing kit from <a href="http://www.jrwatkins.com/">J.R. Watkins Apothecary</a>. Their body lotions are 100% organic, natural, and they do not perform animal testing (something that we always look for on the products we use), not to mention the fact that they smell delicious!</div><div> </div><div>I also got a gorgeous pair of black 'suede' boots and copious amounts of clothes from the <a href="http://www.gap.com/">Gap</a> and <a href="http://www.bananarepublic.com/">Banana Republic</a>. I highly recommend visiting both stores now, as their boxing day sales are out of this world. But, my favourite gift of all would have to be my Black Onyx <a href="http://www.kitchenaid.com/home.jsp">Kitchen Aid </a>Stand Mixer...I can't wait to try it out!</div><br /><br /><div>I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and are enjoying the holidays!</div><div> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-56271905595368499682008-12-28T10:27:00.000-08:002008-12-28T10:44:48.227-08:00Patinage de glace<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVfFQlvIrwI/AAAAAAAABJw/9_80S0thXMA/s1600-h/figure+skate.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284909576540958466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVfFQlvIrwI/AAAAAAAABJw/9_80S0thXMA/s320/figure+skate.jpg" border="0" /></a> Yesterday night my dad and I took advantage of the free skating at our local arena. I haven't been on skates since I was 14, so it was a bit of a challenge to get back into the swing of things. I joked that I would probably spend the majority of the night in the children's section, skating with the assistance of a chair in an attempt to gain some balance. But, the old adage is true...it's just like riding a bicycle. I eventually found my groove and we spent a good hour and a half on the rink. I was surprised that the rink wasn't more crowded, since I remember as a child my dad having to circle the arena a few times before finding a parking space. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">We came home shortly afterwards and warmed up to some hot chocolate by the fire, and watched a few Christmas movies before they get packed up with the rest of the Christmas decor.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">I think I will be able to fit in a few more winter sports before I head back to school to begin my second term. Most of the snow is still on the ground...maybe I can convince my brother to find our toboggan so we can head over to a snowy hill! Those skis of mine are also calling my name...</div><div align="center"></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-68964489129278116012008-12-26T17:34:00.000-08:002008-12-26T17:52:07.439-08:00My (2nd) Favourite Day of the Year<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHC3aJj2I/AAAAAAAABJo/S2liROA5fXI/s1600-h/023.JPG"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHC0FlEgI/AAAAAAAABJg/r8AOKCgYPus/s1600-h/022.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284278220200677890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHC0FlEgI/AAAAAAAABJg/r8AOKCgYPus/s320/022.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHCp1_vsI/AAAAAAAABJY/hwX_JVYwruo/s1600-h/021.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284278217450962626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHCp1_vsI/AAAAAAAABJY/hwX_JVYwruo/s320/021.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHCcZ4jcI/AAAAAAAABJQ/XTuluE4qS_8/s1600-h/018.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284278213843389890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHCcZ4jcI/AAAAAAAABJQ/XTuluE4qS_8/s320/018.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHCfR7rFI/AAAAAAAABJI/ddX9dvXmYms/s1600-h/016.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284278214615346258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SVWHCfR7rFI/AAAAAAAABJI/ddX9dvXmYms/s320/016.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />I confess...even after all of the presents have been opened Christmas Day I count down the hours until Boxing Day arrives. Beginning November 1st, I begin my Christmas countdown. As soon as Hallowe'en is over and done with, the pumpkin/Fall-inspired decorations are packed away and the Christmas decor comes out. There is nothing like listening to Johnny Mathis sing White Christmas while gingerbread cookies are baking in the oven, the table gets its Christmas makeover for parties, and the lights begin to be strung from the fence in the front yard. </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">While I am a self-confessed Christmas junkie (I insist the decorations stay out until February), I can't help my Boxing-Day-Countdown. I love a bargain, not to mention the thrill that goes along with getting a great deal. (Early) this morning, we headed out to Home Outfitters where the Christmas stock was 60% off, including a few not-so-Christmas items (a set of 2 pillows was $5 and Oneida silverware was $20!). I couldn't pass up this $20 white tea set, $10 Mercury glass tree topper and $8 Mercury glass candle sticks...I think I might have begun a new collection!<br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-56896445702009761432008-12-21T18:52:00.000-08:002008-12-24T10:06:57.888-08:00A Christmas Tribute to My Best Friend<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SU8DsA14TvI/AAAAAAAABJA/AeSt0bhbtEw/s1600-h/napping+ben.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282444942603996914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 212px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SU8DsA14TvI/AAAAAAAABJA/AeSt0bhbtEw/s320/napping+ben.jpg" border="0" /></a> "The dog of your boyhood teaches you a great deal about friendship, and love, and death: Old Skip was my brother. They had buried him under our elm tree, they said — yet this wasn't totally true. For he really lay buried in my heart. "</div><p align="center">-Willie Morris, My Dog Skip </p><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">These past few months have been a whirlwind of ups and downs, both good and bad. I began the month of September pursuing my Master's degree at a beautiful university in a beautiful new city, and have met many wonderful, unique people along the way. I spent my days in the library and my weekends and nights out exploring the city with friends. But, eventually, I grew homesick and when Thanksgiving came around, I couldn't wait to visit with friends and family...and of course, my beautiful black lab, Ben...back home. Unfortunately, it was during this weekend back home that I learned my best friend had passed away. </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Over the summer I noticed he was growing tired and was beginning to show his age, though he still had a skip, hop and a jump in his step. Then Fall rolled around and his 'kids' went off to school. He started slowing down and slept most of the days away. He passed away on a crisp autumn afternoon when the leaves were starting to turn their rich golden colours. </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Yesterday night I came home from Christmas shopping and on my way in the house, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a star twinkling. I am sure that star will follow me forever, and keep a watchful eye over me.</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="center">Ben, I will love you and miss you forever. </div><div align="center">Goodbye my sweet friend.<br /></div><div align="center"></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-30762969998601882202008-09-10T05:31:00.000-07:002008-12-24T10:10:51.850-08:00A Blog Award!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SMfAUWarz1I/AAAAAAAAA3s/1PW36XGvmGY/s1600-h/I_love_your_blog.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244371746943651666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SMfAUWarz1I/AAAAAAAAA3s/1PW36XGvmGY/s320/I_love_your_blog.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">My </span><a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">mum</span></a><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"> has given me the "I Love Your Blog" award! Thank you, </span><a href="http://posted-from-home.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">mum</span></a><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">!</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">The rules are...</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">*Put the logo on your blog</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">*Link the person from whom your received the award</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">*Nominate at least 7 other blogs</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">*Post a link to those blogs</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">*Leave a message letting them know you have passed the award on to them</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">I am giving the award to...</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">1.) Brenda Kula @ </span><a href="http://thebrendablog.typepad.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://thebrendablog.typepad.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">2.) Kasey @ </span><a href="http://lolabboutique.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://lolabboutique.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">3.) Nita @ </span><a href="http://redtinheart.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://redtinheart.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">4.) Jeanne @ </span><a href="http://jeannesbliss.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://jeannesbliss.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">5.) Becca @ </span><a href="http://bluebirdroses.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://bluebirdroses.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">6.) Rosemary @ </span><a href="http://rosespetitemaison.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://rosespetitemaison.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">7.) Lisa @ </span><a href="http://btchwstix.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://btchwstix.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">8.) Cherry @ </span><a href="http://cherrysjubileehome.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://cherrysjubileehome.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">9.) Susie @ </span><a href="http://rabbitruncottage.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://rabbitruncottage.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">10.) Racheal @ </span><a href="http://milesawayinfrance.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#000000;">http://milesawayinfrance.blogspot.com/</span></a></div><div align="center"></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2191479680977848952.post-7181300916994057092008-08-29T07:00:00.000-07:002008-08-29T07:14:44.140-07:00A Lemon Lover's Dream...<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SLgBGuT1DzI/AAAAAAAAA3U/UWT6nzs9fyE/s1600-h/lemon.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239939381467615026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SLgBGuT1DzI/AAAAAAAAA3U/UWT6nzs9fyE/s320/lemon.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SLgBHKER4hI/AAAAAAAAA3c/twHzuO4ugkk/s1600-h/lemon2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239939388918587922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SLgBHKER4hI/AAAAAAAAA3c/twHzuO4ugkk/s320/lemon2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SLgBHQzD-8I/AAAAAAAAA3k/EWkrynoVL-k/s1600-h/lemon3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239939390725422018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uKPvBRjdt5A/SLgBHQzD-8I/AAAAAAAAA3k/EWkrynoVL-k/s320/lemon3.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><div align="center">After having been 'start struck' a few weeks back meeting Anna Olson at <a href="http://www.olsonfoodsandbakery.com/">her bakery </a>in Port Dalhousie, and having tried one of the lemon squares there, I was inspired to bake my own.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">This recipe is adapted from Anna's own recipe, which is featured in her cookbook,<a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Sugar-Simple-Sweets-Decadent-Desserts/dp/1552855090"> Sugar</a>. As the ultimate lemon lover in our house, I can attest (and so can my waist line) to the fact that these squares have been made on a weekly basis since meeting Anna...they are just THAT good!</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">The finished product is meant to cool entirely and then refrigerated, but, in our house, the lemon squares barely make it out of the oven before they are devoured!</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> So pucker those lips up and get ready to enjoy these squares as much as we do!</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Ultimate <span style="color:#ffff00;"><strong>Lemon </strong></span>Squares</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="left">1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened</div><div align="left">1/3 cup icing sugar, plus extra for dusting</div><div align="left">1 cup + 2 1/2 tsp all-purpose flour</div><div align="left">3 large eggs</div><div align="left">1 1/2 cups granulated sugar</div><div align="left">6 Tbsp lemon juice</div><div align="left">1 tsp lemon zest</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">*Preheat over to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">*For the crust: In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed. Add the icing sugar and 1 cup of the flour, and beat on low speed until incorporated. Increase the speed to medium, and beat until well blended. Press the dough firmly over the bottom of the pan. Bake in the over for 15 minutes, until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">*For the topping: In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, granulated sugar, remaining 2 1/2 tsp of the flour, the lemon juice and the zest. Beat with the electric mixer on low speed until well blended. Spread over the cooled crust and return to the oven for 20-25 minutes more, until set. Let cool thoroughly in the pan before cutting into 2-inch squares. Dust with icing sugar.<br /></div><div align="center"></div>The French Nesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09898820968596625368noreply@blogger.com9