Have a wonderful weekend

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6GW5L4qwbpg4cSW-GnHupTlEGu0L2ollnGY1VhkFAX0PoQ9mXwfD7b-dBhoY91jJ_DGrs1FrMbTqV6r_r3na4JPkeu1a191UrW4-j0vZyge0E_G0YLfdoaVhZ0TmcEiyFcYDn-qRbnFQ/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692028677149304578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6GW5L4qwbpg4cSW-GnHupTlEGu0L2ollnGY1VhkFAX0PoQ9mXwfD7b-dBhoY91jJ_DGrs1FrMbTqV6r_r3na4JPkeu1a191UrW4-j0vZyge0E_G0YLfdoaVhZ0TmcEiyFcYDn-qRbnFQ/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" /></a>Happy Friday, friends, and Happy (<em>almost!</em>) New Year! Can you believe 2011 is almost over? Are you excited for 2012? What are your plans for the weekend? We're getting together with some friends to celebrate the holidays -- it's sort of nice to have another holiday gathering after Christmas to look forward to! I hope you enjoyed the more fun, light-hearted posts this week. Next week, we'll be back with your regularly scheduled programming (<em>like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Letters%20to%20my%20future%20husband">Letters To My Future Husband</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Memo%20To%20Men">MEMO TO MEN</a></em>), but in the meantime, here are my favorite finds from the wonderful Web... <br /><br />Oh, I love <a href="http://www.iamagreedygirl.com/2011/12/lizzie-fortunato.html">sparkly purses</a>!<br /><br /><a href="http://fashionandotherfancies.blogspot.com/2011/12/snowfall-in-g-minor.html">Dear Snow</a>: Where are you?<br /><br />A <a href="http://www.harryanddavid.com/gifts/store/item____monthly-fruit-clubs_monthly-fruit-clubs_1067">fruit-of-the-month</a> club!<br /><br />Isn't this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86292626/2012-modern-chair-calendar">modern chair calendar</a> cool?<br /><br />Which <a href="http://www.sarahbrydenbrown.com/2011/11/28/which-twitter-type-are-you/">Twitter type</a> are you?<br /><br />Awww alert: <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/27/cats-in-party-hats-video_n_1171348.html?ncid=edlinkusaolp00000003">Cats in party hats</a>!<br /><br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/194288171394205489/">So romantic</a>.<br /><br />How perfect is this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82600072/orange-victorian-parasol-autumn-harvest?ref=fp_treasury_2">Victorian-style umbrella</a>?<br /><br />I could eat <a href="http://becauseofmadalene.blogspot.com/2011/12/holiday-press-cookies.html">holiday cookies</a> all year.<br /><br /><a href="http://minimozblog.blogspot.com/2011/10/love-map-tutorial.html">This</a> would make an awesome wedding gift -- simple and meaningful.<br /><br />Awesome <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/elsita?ref=top_trail">Etsy prints</a>.<br /><br />Ellen is running a great <a href="http://www.lovethatmax.com/search/label/special%20needs%20parenting">special-needs parenting</a> feature on her blog!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2011/12/before-after-minimalist-bathroom-makeover.html">Bathroom makeover</a>.<br /><br />Do you take <a href="http://www.dailycandy.com/all-cities/article/114475/Winter-Weekend-Road-Trips">winter trips</a>?<br /><br />Don't you love all these <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/alovelylittleshop?section_id=7865072">necklaces</a>?<br /><br />How many of <a href="http://dailycandy.com/all-cities/roundup/flash.jsp#/101-books-we-cant-live-without/">these books</a> have you read?<br /><br /><a href="http://muchlove-illy.blogspot.com/2011/12/mustache-sticks-are-must-for-every.html">Mustache sticks</a> make any party better!<br /><br />Good <a href="http://www.dailycandy.com/all-cities/article/116717/How-to-Keep-New-Years-Resolutions">how-to tips</a> for keeping your New Year's resolution.<br /><br />Congrats to <a href="http://www.sandyalamode.com/">Sandy</a> on her new bundle of joy!<br /><br />And congrats to former Glamour magazine blogger Meredith Bodgas on the launch of her new blog <a href="http://meritalbliss.com/">Merital Bliss</a>! Follow her adventures from bridal to cradle!<br /><br />[Photo via <a href="http://ohpioneer.com/post/14723331441">Oh, Pioneer</a>]

Have a wonderful weekend

Happy Friday, friends, and Happy (almost!) New Year! Can you believe 2011 is almost over? Are you excited for 2012? What are your plans for the weekend? We're getting together with some friends to celebrate the holidays -- it's sort of nice to have another holiday gathering after Christmas to look f…

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Do you make New Year's resolutions?

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6601561401_2e4d004b69_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6601561401_2e4d004b69_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 561px;" /></a>Confession: I've always had a love-hate relationship with New Year's resolutions. When I was younger, it seemed so easy to come up with those grand plans that I was going to accomplish over the next 12 months. Tell <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Crush%20Boy">Crush Boy</a> (<em>finally!</em>) how I felt, for example. And most years, when December 31 rolled around and I realized that I'd forgotten what my resolution even was in the first place, I resigned myself to the fact that resolutions and I just weren't friends. <br /><br /><a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/12/whats-your-new-years-resolution.html">Two years</a> ago, I wrote of just wanting to be happy. And honestly, this sounds like a refreshingly perfect way to approach the coming year, doesn't it?<br /><br /><strong>So, friends, do you make New Year's resolutions? Are they usually the same every year? What is your resolution this year? What will you miss most about 2011? What are you excited about in 2012? xoxo</strong><br /><br />P.S. The <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/28/travelocity-lists-their-t_n_1174991.html?ncid=edlinkusaolp00000003">top 10 cities</a> for ringing in the New Year!<br /><br />[Photo via <a href="http://witanddelight.tumblr.com/post/13748074013/melsanie-its-like-that-time-i-went-as-a-disco">wit + delight</a>]

Do you make New Year's resolutions?

Confession: I've always had a love-hate relationship with New Year's resolutions. When I was younger, it seemed so easy to come up with those grand plans that I was going to accomplish over the next 12 months. Tell Crush Boy (finally!) how I felt, for example. And most years, when December 31 rolle…

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Fashion Friday: New Year's Eve style

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6597493745_faa3ce2937_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6597493745_faa3ce2937_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 480px;" /></a>Are you going anywhere for New Year's Eve, friends? Wouldn't these <a href="http://www.shopbando.com/ban.do-heart-shoe-clips/prod/349?rc=14">sparkly shoe clips</a> from ban.do look awesome with...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoykQGth0y2ZmYBfTaENxzOBWUNlkS9xBNFXKJMw-h619jXr37QlguvCeUKR4P_WKRDDTCTkx8LrjoOwf2VgBsWj1ZAl03bPb3AivSZvyICO7NEdp_LqrUEXTmFGC1KQWnJ2cBkWswYMU/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691727198323324546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoykQGth0y2ZmYBfTaENxzOBWUNlkS9xBNFXKJMw-h619jXr37QlguvCeUKR4P_WKRDDTCTkx8LrjoOwf2VgBsWj1ZAl03bPb3AivSZvyICO7NEdp_LqrUEXTmFGC1KQWnJ2cBkWswYMU/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" /></a>...these great with <a href="http://www.beso.com/2674286176/detail">ruby red</a> toes peeking out? :)<br /><br />P.S. More New Year's talk coming up shortly! xoxo

Fashion Friday: New Year's Eve style

Are you going anywhere for New Year's Eve, friends? Wouldn't these sparkly shoe clips from ban.do look awesome with......these great with ruby red toes peeking out? :)P.S. More New Year's talk coming up shortly! xoxo…

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What are your favorite board games?

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5pGa2n3MZhbNz0goTxgrYMEQkOx1Xz9TOhByVGzO2Lo1Wn4kxqdaVWgGJaVle-PeOQC7X1-lhiZZqTG9QHZh2fO0y9Xv1rYy-m1Q1KhY49hyphenhyphenJPM3DRgjF4oUZGcrwQYRzcdqEppNPsJib/s1600/aa.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691646309943510658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5pGa2n3MZhbNz0goTxgrYMEQkOx1Xz9TOhByVGzO2Lo1Wn4kxqdaVWgGJaVle-PeOQC7X1-lhiZZqTG9QHZh2fO0y9Xv1rYy-m1Q1KhY49hyphenhyphenJPM3DRgjF4oUZGcrwQYRzcdqEppNPsJib/s400/aa.bmp" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" /></a>I've had a rather interesting realization this week: My <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/01/happy-birthday-mom.html">mother</a> is a bad influence on me. We're both on vacation this week, and each day's events have unfolded in practically the same way. I'll wake up, eat breakfast and then attempt to open my laptop to get some work done. And invariably, I'll hear my mom utter those three little word: <em>"It's. Game. Time."</em><br /><br />She's a woman who loves playing games -- board games, cards games, puzzles. She always has, and on vacation, her urge to play is somehow kicked into overdrive. I jokingly try to tell her that "<em>Mommy has work to do</em>," but in the end, I never really put up much of a fight. It would probably be pointless, anyway. This week, we've been, as my mother calls us, "<em>game-playing fools</em>," yet we always go back to a few favorites...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODmE86DGReyEn09Lkf3Xu1nZUzzFIn70bVsfVQyUuN6fWqMVlNb1av6Q6pt2kCD8g2Vy_nfgHBfMEh0m9SFmGcoil2czawoQt0QAOUsI09P-VK1O5vET-AurwJz40nUHkMnskPHqDzVc-/s1600/Publication1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691646310450861298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODmE86DGReyEn09Lkf3Xu1nZUzzFIn70bVsfVQyUuN6fWqMVlNb1av6Q6pt2kCD8g2Vy_nfgHBfMEh0m9SFmGcoil2czawoQt0QAOUsI09P-VK1O5vET-AurwJz40nUHkMnskPHqDzVc-/s400/Publication1.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 309px;" /></a>*<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-00950-Yahtzee/dp/B00000IWH6/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1325185753&sr=1-1">Yahtzee</a>: I don't remeber when we started playing regularly (<em>shortly after my father died, I think</em>), but this game always plays into both of our competitive sides. Plus, it's fast-paced, and those dice make you feel like you're in Las Vegas. Did you know I have a secret love of casinos, friends? No? Ooooh, well, then, more about that later. :)<br />*<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bananagrams-BAN001/dp/1932188126/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1325185806&sr=1-1">Bananagrams</a>: This is a great off-shoot of Scrabble, but what I love is that you make your own board of words instead of adding onto someone else's. This one really gets my heart pumping (<em>I've been on a winning streak this week too!</em>).<br />*<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-4658-S5-Trouble-Board/dp/B00000DMFN/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1325185854&sr=1-1">Trouble</a>: My mom picked up this childhood favorite for Christmas. I haven't played it in years, but it's fun to pop that bubble!<br />*<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-00009-97-Monopoly/dp/B00000IWCT/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1325185894&sr=1-1">Monopoly</a>: My favorite game of all time. This is the sort of game that can last for hours (<em>even days</em>), and in high schOol, my best friend and I would just play and play and play. Fun fact: I am so OCD about getting Park Place and Boardwalk (I have to own them) that I will mortage everything I have to get it.<br /><br /><strong>Do you play a lot of games, friends? Do you have favorites you always find yourself going back to? Do you have family game nights? What games are you dying to try? Any recommendations? And...do you have a competitive streak? I do...big time!! xoxo</strong>

What are your favorite board games?

I've had a rather interesting realization this week: My mother is a bad influence on me. We're both on vacation this week, and each day's events have unfolded in practically the same way. I'll wake up, eat breakfast and then attempt to open my laptop to get some work done. And invariably, I'll hear …

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Facebook and Pinterest update

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEify6inl_5OfbXQjCRLIQLdALCO_h2bNtSZqEI9H1USOmwB_JctPlxlYmZLF0ArNVRKdE0wTbYDBSA_Gr_rgiZMNi7qYcLtl5COvvjBUl0zEuTpwITvyRScXj_QbVx0B0tS7RK67m63-l_X/s1600/aa.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691625889868684066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEify6inl_5OfbXQjCRLIQLdALCO_h2bNtSZqEI9H1USOmwB_JctPlxlYmZLF0ArNVRKdE0wTbYDBSA_Gr_rgiZMNi7qYcLtl5COvvjBUl0zEuTpwITvyRScXj_QbVx0B0tS7RK67m63-l_X/s400/aa.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 145px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cpo_MBjJzZYMZ0r0G6uOcrD15cnLbSMVYDG5mxbUpjGACcdFxqdFOddbsgui4vVDgqLjQLIzeYIDEOjNar85hR7chDDNNP98Elv0ciUK7kBKOSTZ2Ax6QWtzU8dB35hD26rL_TTuYUjK/s1600/aa2.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691625888637106930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cpo_MBjJzZYMZ0r0G6uOcrD15cnLbSMVYDG5mxbUpjGACcdFxqdFOddbsgui4vVDgqLjQLIzeYIDEOjNar85hR7chDDNNP98Elv0ciUK7kBKOSTZ2Ax6QWtzU8dB35hD26rL_TTuYUjK/s400/aa2.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 143px;" /></a>Remember a few weeks ago when I <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/12/sneak-peek-blog-redesign.html">mentioned</a> that So About What I Said was getting a little makeover? Well, it's coming soon, but in the meantime, I wanted to share two exciting things with you! I've updated the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/soaboutwhatisaid">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://pinterest.com/melissablake/">Pinterest</a> pages, so now you all can follow along -- and hopefully be inspired too! I'll be continually updating them, so be sure to check back!<br /><br />I'm also brainstorming fun, exclusive things to add to the Facebook page in the new year. Any ideas, friends? Let's get inspired together, shall we? xoxo

Facebook and Pinterest update

Remember a few weeks ago when I mentioned that So About What I Said was getting a little makeover? Well, it's coming soon, but in the meantime, I wanted to share two exciting things with you! I've updated the Facebook and Pinterest pages, so now you all can follow along -- and hopefully be inspired …

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Etsy Love: Sparkly New Year's Eve flutes

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6591044423_5003ffdab7_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6591044423_5003ffdab7_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1UDnqNiIr3NVlk1lvT_ZGV3bAG4EKjoRCAiWBPIge1ogUGOZoYf7dTpP_5We8UlmhTFTFI67ljB0JNI9-F3K412cdaIgEaPdiXvDBh5pRtY4MfAgL-V6F1ETgSuATFRSL3rcJCZRXrbVJ/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691343967061803826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1UDnqNiIr3NVlk1lvT_ZGV3bAG4EKjoRCAiWBPIge1ogUGOZoYf7dTpP_5We8UlmhTFTFI67ljB0JNI9-F3K412cdaIgEaPdiXvDBh5pRtY4MfAgL-V6F1ETgSuATFRSL3rcJCZRXrbVJ/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 378px;" /></a>I love these <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84804998/hand-painted-champagne-flutes-toasting?ref=sr_gallery_16&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=champagne&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade%2Fglass">hand painted champagne flutes</a> (<em>in blue and pearl shades</em>), but since I don't drink, here's a fun twist I came up with for New Year's Eve merriment: Toast to some bubbly root beer. Don't you love the glittery snowflake design, friends? Perfect! xoxo

Etsy Love: Sparkly New Year's Eve flutes

I love these hand painted champagne flutes (in blue and pearl shades), but since I don't drink, here's a fun twist I came up with for New Year's Eve merriment: Toast to some bubbly root beer. Don't you love the glittery snowflake design, friends? Perfect! xoxo…

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Peek Inside: Wall of family photos

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6589670317_81acec67af_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6589670317_81acec67af_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a>For my next <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/peek%20inside">Peek Inside</a>, I'd love to show you one of the favorite spots in my house: Our wall of family photos. We'd had the photos of my paternal and maternal grandparents adorning the walls for awhile. Above are my maternal and paternal grandparents, respectively.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisdOUTBsEdt0YmptRWb4kpMV-M19PVp5cjsUBy_fPigK109VkA0AiGGheal30l5YZ1WJveYLLAY2u5P_TMlgUhanVocOhJ36_K7lDKaaYaYSYkQfaD8Wq04R2HF27B3ziN5PIWZDVFKs4K/s1600/aa2.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691279775555219010" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisdOUTBsEdt0YmptRWb4kpMV-M19PVp5cjsUBy_fPigK109VkA0AiGGheal30l5YZ1WJveYLLAY2u5P_TMlgUhanVocOhJ36_K7lDKaaYaYSYkQfaD8Wq04R2HF27B3ziN5PIWZDVFKs4K/s400/aa2.bmp" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqfY-ObsoAUkXVjSFtnfLIbxDxiLcHp7x5NyZj2gFSz9hz5U-0a12U008VShYzUAJ_92wePHWq7ZMe7TZ0Eo4QSGYBODPEJAMmkaowyVM45h6nS_xK8TOq5wCK_aBcoWF1HHWOd7504h0/s1600/aa3.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691279139890661826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqfY-ObsoAUkXVjSFtnfLIbxDxiLcHp7x5NyZj2gFSz9hz5U-0a12U008VShYzUAJ_92wePHWq7ZMe7TZ0Eo4QSGYBODPEJAMmkaowyVM45h6nS_xK8TOq5wCK_aBcoWF1HHWOd7504h0/s400/aa3.bmp" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a>But over the holidays, my mother found a few more photos in our basement and decided to create a full-on family wall. I love being able to just stand in front of it and feel like all the most important people in my life are with me, even if they're thousands of miles away. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi51J7lyMTpptRwILND3gYD8aT_ueNaL0EkRize06aukZHzKocdOzFGoHYEXLgK2C6eBEr67JPxoXI9-XTrX3oxGEJOhbMCTrUvUG0nmnOJEu7-R6ZAsHzSNDsnR6iut109irPqmaU4ZrY/s1600/aa4.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691278219216228418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi51J7lyMTpptRwILND3gYD8aT_ueNaL0EkRize06aukZHzKocdOzFGoHYEXLgK2C6eBEr67JPxoXI9-XTrX3oxGEJOhbMCTrUvUG0nmnOJEu7-R6ZAsHzSNDsnR6iut109irPqmaU4ZrY/s400/aa4.bmp" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><strong>It's a comforting thought, isn't it, friends? I'd love to know: Do you have a lot of family photos hanging in your house? Where do you like to display them? Do you have a big family or a small one? xoxo</strong><br /><br />P.S. Do you see the photo of me in the upper left-hand corner of the third photo? That's my senior photo from high school...and I practically look the same. Exactly the same. What's up with that?? :)

Peek Inside: Wall of family photos

For my next Peek Inside, I'd love to show you one of the favorite spots in my house: Our wall of family photos. We'd had the photos of my paternal and maternal grandparents adorning the walls for awhile. Above are my maternal and paternal grandparents, respectively.But over the holidays, my mother …

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Shooting star tattoo

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevVV5L_XnaSq-GR10c4d2-EaFliXub_2csC4tlpX7z-BhrDF3m8pG9x6gG71_8RL1Ncg_WQ96dGMAIaJwPVWVgDNA90gbxGeoercHQucIN19Ilv-gJ3Ut7JjaFLjSlArpvTSjkP9VW9Al/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691251893750522498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevVV5L_XnaSq-GR10c4d2-EaFliXub_2csC4tlpX7z-BhrDF3m8pG9x6gG71_8RL1Ncg_WQ96dGMAIaJwPVWVgDNA90gbxGeoercHQucIN19Ilv-gJ3Ut7JjaFLjSlArpvTSjkP9VW9Al/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a>Speaking of <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/12/question-of-week-question-7.html">stars</a> (<em>and with the new year coming up... </em>), this <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/32017847320353489/">shooting star tattoo</a> has me daydreaming of making wishes today. What about you, friends? xoxo <br /><br />P.S. A <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/95490454568579074/">colorful</a> star tattoo and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/07/new-shop-tattly.html">more</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/do-you-have-tattoo.html">tattoo</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/haters-tattoo.html">love</a>.

Shooting star tattoo

Speaking of stars (and with the new year coming up... ), this shooting star tattoo has me daydreaming of making wishes today. What about you, friends? xoxo P.S. A colorful star tattoo and more tattoo love.…

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How I Feel (In 5 Photos) Wednesday.

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsVIgQEmLmoVCClP-79ecOFw5FkpepVOKudB2RIx2gKEBij2u2dtb9WH7CbMjJaFzNOBl4KiRLdo6e2PI4A5DxrR5XOrHnnU9AXtOpwucWdlmppjgsYGf-77qHguW86IbN5O1Pnm7vYWJZ/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690973146725150114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsVIgQEmLmoVCClP-79ecOFw5FkpepVOKudB2RIx2gKEBij2u2dtb9WH7CbMjJaFzNOBl4KiRLdo6e2PI4A5DxrR5XOrHnnU9AXtOpwucWdlmppjgsYGf-77qHguW86IbN5O1Pnm7vYWJZ/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRiArfXBHzVYAEasOQFEAQVTf_xOEphYNcuwixereTKAVXvLUzXTdMunI2Am_9llM7hctsERC7v0V6IfS2HF3m5ieM6vTj9RPx2ayDU2XGuGT4sdI4arwWOjDVO9sVi8PgTV95dkNMBNuM/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690973140943827858" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRiArfXBHzVYAEasOQFEAQVTf_xOEphYNcuwixereTKAVXvLUzXTdMunI2Am_9llM7hctsERC7v0V6IfS2HF3m5ieM6vTj9RPx2ayDU2XGuGT4sdI4arwWOjDVO9sVi8PgTV95dkNMBNuM/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWTl-8rRtdSGirSzhaEXIkilb82ODE3_FRwR0_Daq-k1L-JM-wDq4w9eaSIjuRpFQv73F5npZI3eUhwFOJ0wJvaj1K7XmWlEFsqu_ZuZQOtfjODYeD_i_eMthLtmtO6VxQo1sY19MGyxn/s1600/aa3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690973137289997026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWTl-8rRtdSGirSzhaEXIkilb82ODE3_FRwR0_Daq-k1L-JM-wDq4w9eaSIjuRpFQv73F5npZI3eUhwFOJ0wJvaj1K7XmWlEFsqu_ZuZQOtfjODYeD_i_eMthLtmtO6VxQo1sY19MGyxn/s400/aa3.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQMqScyNZ6-qdGwBLyR_5ZvXP_CIe5GYT7ispr1fXuY1YDeMNUaxa2ArYwLNmowSZFpS5RfxdoeHm7fKcjpXk8jWEcaGSHBnplIr-2Jq6wB4VKffcyhWGyFmkTW8UGpwKXYqTBUFGgz2t/s1600/aa4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690973136565826898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQMqScyNZ6-qdGwBLyR_5ZvXP_CIe5GYT7ispr1fXuY1YDeMNUaxa2ArYwLNmowSZFpS5RfxdoeHm7fKcjpXk8jWEcaGSHBnplIr-2Jq6wB4VKffcyhWGyFmkTW8UGpwKXYqTBUFGgz2t/s400/aa4.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghyVWtCSAvPHdutpK-LtcxPOSvVDC2EEdSv2c0GXiz1yxdf8kigueRwzgD5YpfixTTfk6tgeuVU6Nk02njmC-vWTkjG6IuZ6jmrKmjnQIYwsf1Ac5KN8iq23xaHHQ89rj6LCc_I5ail4p/s1600/aa5.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690973136034820498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghyVWtCSAvPHdutpK-LtcxPOSvVDC2EEdSv2c0GXiz1yxdf8kigueRwzgD5YpfixTTfk6tgeuVU6Nk02njmC-vWTkjG6IuZ6jmrKmjnQIYwsf1Ac5KN8iq23xaHHQ89rj6LCc_I5ail4p/s400/aa5.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 265px;" /></a><em>"I just called to say I love you."</em> --Stevie Wonder<br /><br />[Photos via <a href="http://mysummertwist.tumblr.com/">My Summer Twist</a>]

How I Feel (In 5 Photos) Wednesday.

"I just called to say I love you." --Stevie Wonder[Photos via My Summer Twist]…

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Question of the Week: Question #7

<em>Have a question? I'd love to hear it, so feel free to email me (mellow1422 [at] aol), friends! Today's question comes to us from <a href="http://dancingbranflakes.blogspot.com/">Dancing Branflakes</a>, who asks...</em><br /><br /><strong>What would be your dream gift from a guy?</strong><br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6584486241_8e330d8451_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6584486241_8e330d8451_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 523px;" /></a>Oh, what a fun question! It's probably sort of obvious that I gravitate toward the romantic gifts -- those kind that make you go, "<em>Awww, this is so sweet of you</em>." But I'm not much of a flowers-and-chocolate kind of girl. I like the kinds of gifts that are a bit more permanent. The kinds you bring out 50 years later and tell the whole story to your grandchildren. <br /><br />I'm also a big fan of giving gifts every once in awhile for no special reason. A Just Because gift, if you will. It's fun to be surprised, and to see the surprised look on someone's face when you give them a gift just because. Two Just Because gifts I've been fantasizing about lately...<br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7030/6584269183_78ac6290d9_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7030/6584269183_78ac6290d9_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 568px;" /></a><a href="http://osr.org/en-us/?gclid=CMffytmho60CFYvDKgodnx5hkw">Name a star</a>: How romantic is this? I've always found space and the galaxies so intriguing, and it would be neat to think of the special guy every time I looked up into the sky. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQEcdkDwpXch9O0NC2vGeYVASWMkoHjLA3A0QbmEZo9GBP-X8UzUaSjxred7q9z_5g3LVnrnHpTCSl5efivT8xhq60Tucs32DqSqHeqz_AmI-UaAnu1zCI_v33ezBRS-Ae6OWy5zB4Isv/s1600/aa2.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690951232337815778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQEcdkDwpXch9O0NC2vGeYVASWMkoHjLA3A0QbmEZo9GBP-X8UzUaSjxred7q9z_5g3LVnrnHpTCSl5efivT8xhq60Tucs32DqSqHeqz_AmI-UaAnu1zCI_v33ezBRS-Ae6OWy5zB4Isv/s400/aa2.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 332px;" /></a>A personal mix CD: Music is just about my favorite thing in the world, and we all have <em>that</em> song (<em>mine is Fields of Gold</em>) that has always been our favorite. And since I'm a <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Lyrical%20Gangster">lyrics girl</a>, it would be so sweet if a guy picked up on that and made a mix with some of my favorite songs on it. <br /><br />This question also makes me wonder, though: Is there gift-giving etiquette based on how long you've been dating someone? For instance, would it be inappropriate to get the same gift for a guy you've been dating for a year and the guy you've only been dating a few months? Is there some sort of chart for this, with boundary lines that shouldn't be crossed? If not, someone should get on that <em>stat</em>. I'd hate to be on the receiving end of a surprise for the <em>wrong</em> reasons, wouldn't you? xoxo<br /><br />[Top chart via <a href="http://ilovecharts.tumblr.com/post/3235139551">I Love Charts</a>, photos via <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/20758848251904015/">Pinterest</a> and <a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/15193072">We Heart It</a>]

Question of the Week: Question #7

Have a question? I'd love to hear it, so feel free to email me (mellow1422 [at] aol), friends! Today's question comes to us from Dancing Branflakes, who asks...What would be your dream gift from a guy? Oh, what a fun question! It's probably sort of obvious that I gravitate toward the romantic gifts …

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The Nicest Place on the Internet

<object style="height: 390px; width: 400px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zG-BWw__yos?version=3&feature=player_profilepage"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zG-BWw__yos?version=3&feature=player_profilepage" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="400" height="360"></object><br />Need a <a href="http://thenicestplaceontheinter.net/">hug</a>? The Internet's got you covered. :)<br /><br />P.S. More hugs <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TheNicestPlace">here</a>.<br /><br />[Via <a href="http://www.swiss-miss.com/2011/12/the-nicest-place-on-the-internet.html">Swissmiss</a>]

The Nicest Place on the Internet

Need a hug? The Internet's got you covered. :)P.S. More hugs here.[Via Swissmiss]…

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Would you like to advertise in the new year?

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUPhz9CfByjf-gZJY6R50AMFw1XMDmh2_A6VH6RTEQIaTbF20n-hDKZyTTVzlI6JmKOcXRYgnS3yg5NMPFlqzZmnLN8JQZHYYrANdOIHC6AWz5sHP8_scAQdGNy2QBK_2gEXAI_CNpzpse/s1600-h/00.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357964811860029570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUPhz9CfByjf-gZJY6R50AMFw1XMDmh2_A6VH6RTEQIaTbF20n-hDKZyTTVzlI6JmKOcXRYgnS3yg5NMPFlqzZmnLN8JQZHYYrANdOIHC6AWz5sHP8_scAQdGNy2QBK_2gEXAI_CNpzpse/s400/00.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 399px; height: 400px;" /></a>Would you like to advertise on <a href="http://www.melissabxoxo.blogspot.com">So about what I said...</a> in 2012? The new year is shaping up to be fun and exciting around these parts as we explore fashion, design, weddings, shopping and of course, honest talk about love and life! <br /><br />My 3,000+ readers are dedicated, vibrant and enthusiastic. They shop online regularly and are always looking for unique and beautiful items. Ads are displayed and rotated weekly on the left sidebar and giveaway options are available with the purchase of an ad at no extra cost. My rates are ideal venues for small businesses, including online shop owners, Etsy sellers, photographers, bloggers and designers.<br /><br />Please email mellow1422 (at) aol (dot) com for rates and specials. Thank you so much, and I look forward to working with you! xoxo<br /><br />[Image designed by the wonderful <a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsblog.com/">Ez</a>]

Would you like to advertise in the new year?

Would you like to advertise on So about what I said... in 2012? The new year is shaping up to be fun and exciting around these parts as we explore fashion, design, weddings, shopping and of course, honest talk about love and life! My 3,000+ readers are dedicated, vibrant and enthusiastic. They shop …

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Facebook history of the world

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnlqiPo8af7eQxdIq8iQ4Igiuw-76t3VI2ecNg4d71aWdIJmRuo5jbgtWhFFC1GpkhyphenhyphenSj707EnG2zhxE1S8LWJsdD4ar-RVQE-BZq8OkovDSYhEZ5M_mRce090b3QfGEcRH-xwGxNaMHW/s1600/aa4.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690549470408818066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnlqiPo8af7eQxdIq8iQ4Igiuw-76t3VI2ecNg4d71aWdIJmRuo5jbgtWhFFC1GpkhyphenhyphenSj707EnG2zhxE1S8LWJsdD4ar-RVQE-BZq8OkovDSYhEZ5M_mRce090b3QfGEcRH-xwGxNaMHW/s400/aa4.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 264px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJt6rDpgrBNMOjuJpfWwZJ8m6PMtxHSmnqxk3dC7e1WqMQGxW5MEp8CjlqoWD7iR1H-YESEQun3f-JOkgwOwrmMIxKvvStdnER9oUklwzef1AwRaybl4AdgfGh0RfuYIN-hmDlfwJy726d/s1600/aa5.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690549467556640834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJt6rDpgrBNMOjuJpfWwZJ8m6PMtxHSmnqxk3dC7e1WqMQGxW5MEp8CjlqoWD7iR1H-YESEQun3f-JOkgwOwrmMIxKvvStdnER9oUklwzef1AwRaybl4AdgfGh0RfuYIN-hmDlfwJy726d/s400/aa5.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizz-uNlYo6leGYYuAM87cRtl37mbxyr3KbR31Xi8zZENoMUd7IUxpEJ6rapFr_zDqLgmSzkVQwTOIwsvYX5bA3LLn85tu5j96jl0vX7h1TJ9OaDoKI7j5o8nWeLMs8ci_qL79Q2Le_p4BV/s1600/aa2.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690549486215059922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizz-uNlYo6leGYYuAM87cRtl37mbxyr3KbR31Xi8zZENoMUd7IUxpEJ6rapFr_zDqLgmSzkVQwTOIwsvYX5bA3LLn85tu5j96jl0vX7h1TJ9OaDoKI7j5o8nWeLMs8ci_qL79Q2Le_p4BV/s400/aa2.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 271px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkC6NHMJYPYBzZ2pfdithwIIvDIFslcAUKZFApC_HlYxrcpETaNMFsfG3QBXZSVinmQg-QiT8gbrvc_co4E_Gvg018HeoQSsy_DRSd7InbRKGKlR3iOdOFu82GZzKk5kpWHBtEOHFDrXb/s1600/aa3.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690549480420209058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkC6NHMJYPYBzZ2pfdithwIIvDIFslcAUKZFApC_HlYxrcpETaNMFsfG3QBXZSVinmQg-QiT8gbrvc_co4E_Gvg018HeoQSsy_DRSd7InbRKGKlR3iOdOFu82GZzKk5kpWHBtEOHFDrXb/s400/aa3.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 283px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50FTTh3J1T_YveNr_Eb50aJxgyRiJVjluFUMWSqTIfh8PAFypbe5NxrmamXycC90iyofAjyLRpyeEIjMAkd1_Chb5giplIjygPSI5THNtx6SqkQbOnk2iJIf9XPAeDJRoh-lpFjM-Xbh9/s1600/aa.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690551131006186386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50FTTh3J1T_YveNr_Eb50aJxgyRiJVjluFUMWSqTIfh8PAFypbe5NxrmamXycC90iyofAjyLRpyeEIjMAkd1_Chb5giplIjygPSI5THNtx6SqkQbOnk2iJIf9XPAeDJRoh-lpFjM-Xbh9/s400/aa.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 273px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ORnfAgU-x9yZyMBA7IuheX9Yjt48hE6s_m31KbSXHm2ajkHlqL77FUD5ITgvOHaKjZGyjXnw0MldKJPqyRY_4bq_NbgHGPIktk1BbnTv08dL3n2ch2IZu4BPF2cKTB7vtjIhysR5SPpL/s1600/aa6.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690550478647875298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ORnfAgU-x9yZyMBA7IuheX9Yjt48hE6s_m31KbSXHm2ajkHlqL77FUD5ITgvOHaKjZGyjXnw0MldKJPqyRY_4bq_NbgHGPIktk1BbnTv08dL3n2ch2IZu4BPF2cKTB7vtjIhysR5SPpL/s400/aa6.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 271px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeu_9D23cBSsbEXnmiOdYXn7NsfFYDYI2NW3QEqRxoDt68t1ulTSdcLm2k6iAW43Bl5pvTs-fkghPyolqWXTZZOEHwQZDqNQicrbrMZiWJBd-hQVpnRA9yEp8xjGA1j475SJOLcWni-ZI/s1600/aa7.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690550471617544914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeu_9D23cBSsbEXnmiOdYXn7NsfFYDYI2NW3QEqRxoDt68t1ulTSdcLm2k6iAW43Bl5pvTs-fkghPyolqWXTZZOEHwQZDqNQicrbrMZiWJBd-hQVpnRA9yEp8xjGA1j475SJOLcWni-ZI/s400/aa7.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 284px;" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lJYdm2qbAjY/Tvjklrs3V4I/AAAAAAAAL8A/sZpcg-zoxvk1600/aa8.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690549465219815298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2yJkY2da6n1ev-rw08OYaPIoj1Q5Q2cY2p5mmz9_BUwFuYacP9bBs5kRK6gS7jcBacPBR6UEnCDR-p2DVJ1rCAmvzMGEVkvjwhg1d0V_CpwZCMnlvVEbIMmlwjJg4mwn_hbiQCidSqnt/s400/aa8.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 288px;" /></a>Have you ever imagined what historical records would look like if George Washington had been able to update his Facebook status when he became the first president of the United States? How genius is this Facebook history of the world? It imagines what newsfeeds would have looked like if Facebook existed during everything from The Middle Ages to the 1990s. Also interspersed are funny status updates from historical figures and newsmakers. I must have sat at the kitchen table for 30 minutes today reading my favorite entries to my sister as she did some work around the house. It totally made me smile! xoxo<br /><br />P.S. Don't forget to follow <a href="http://www.facebook.com/soaboutwhatisaid">So About What I Said</a> on Facebook!<br /><br />P.P.S. More decade-related posts: <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/12/decade-love-50s.html">'50s</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/12/decade-love-60s.html">'60s</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/12/decade-love-70s.html">'70s</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/12/decade-love-80s.html">'80s</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/12/decade-love-90s.html">'90s</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/12/decade-love-00s.html">'00s</a>.<br /><br />[Via <a href="http://www.collegehumor.com/facebook-history">College Humor</a>]

Facebook history of the world

Have you ever imagined what historical records would look like if George Washington had been able to update his Facebook status when he became the first president of the United States? How genius is this Facebook history of the world? It imagines what newsfeeds would have looked like if Facebook exi…

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Behind The Blog: That's What She Said

<em>Friends, today we get to know Kathy, a self-proclaimed animal lover and Harry Potter enthusiast who will talk your ear off about both subjects. As she says, "I'm a total nerd and proud of it. I love math." Check out her tale, and as always, I'd love to feature you and your blog, so feel free to email me (mellow1422 [at] aol)...</em><br /><br /><strong>Quick facts</strong><br /><em>Name...Kathy Schneider<br />Birthday...February 23<br />Where are you from...Maryland<br />3 words that describe you...Nerdy, Excitable, Loyal<br />Occupation...I'm currently looking for a job.<br />Blog: <a href="http://www.katherinehschneider.com">That's What She Said</a> <br />When did you start your blog...May 2011</em><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hvbZr54UFGn35X-iwEsrlTKkq8orxt-IHqGi5So1aKXbL0WP_3HBUgOADjTvMTP3Eebb170PqWwp4W_vQh2FqiCCqBrgr5xO00J-r26cRtz4-2RtjonS1d0L1TOTFek9sZXWV0XclB2n/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690512426018653986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hvbZr54UFGn35X-iwEsrlTKkq8orxt-IHqGi5So1aKXbL0WP_3HBUgOADjTvMTP3Eebb170PqWwp4W_vQh2FqiCCqBrgr5xO00J-r26cRtz4-2RtjonS1d0L1TOTFek9sZXWV0XclB2n/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><strong>What inspired you to start a blog?</strong><br />I initially started a blog as a place for me to share what I was up to and what I was thinking with friends and family that I don't get to see that often. I love writing, so this became a great place for me to express myself.<br /><br /><strong>What do you love the most about blogging? Does anything about it stress you out?</strong><br />I love having an outlet to express myself and new friends from around the world. Blogging doesn't really stress me out, although sometimes it can be frustrating when I really want to blog about something in my life, but can't because I know that the people I want to complain about might be reading it.<br /><br /><strong>If you had to describe your blog in one sentence, what would you say</strong><br />Kathy talks about reading, writing, Harry Potter, animals, her family and life in general.<br /><br /><strong>What has blogging taught you?</strong><br />I have met so many wonderful people through blogging that like me for who I am, so I've learned that I don't have to put up with the people in my life who won't accept me unless I change for them. I like who I am more than I ever have, and I have all my blogging friends to thank for that.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZG9bsyoLx50LLSTdLm35uRAuI111m6SGz35jAxbxD5gjpNbWLHCamQR4LxyOC7J9Onj-Y33874z7WHmCtfLETpzT-3R3QvhjSmtXX0E0uu-Vtk5QXsAQ3zg74c_CuvDJsPCkPZi63AfG/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690512418524718514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZG9bsyoLx50LLSTdLm35uRAuI111m6SGz35jAxbxD5gjpNbWLHCamQR4LxyOC7J9Onj-Y33874z7WHmCtfLETpzT-3R3QvhjSmtXX0E0uu-Vtk5QXsAQ3zg74c_CuvDJsPCkPZi63AfG/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a><strong>What advice do you have for new bloggers?</strong><br />Write about what you want to write about. If you just write about things that you think will make your blog popular, you won't get much out of it. And don't be afraid to comment. When I started, I was always nervous about commenting for the first time on someone's blog because I was afraid they would be like, "Who the heck is this person?", but I've never actually met a blogger who was ever upset about getting a comment from a new commenter.<br /><br /><strong>Where do you see yourself and your blog in 5 years?</strong><br />I honestly have no idea. I'm sure I'll still be blogging about books and TV shows and Harry Potter and my family. Although by then, I assume my family will include some children of my own.<br /><br /><strong>What has surprised you the most about blogging?</strong><br />How wonderful the blogging community is. I've never met a group of people who are more accepting and caring. When I started blogging, it was for my family. I never expected to make so many friends through blogging, but I am so happy that I did.<br /><br />P.S. Want to discover more awesome blogs? Catch up on all the <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/behind%20the%20blog">Behind The Blog</a> interviews! :)

Behind The Blog: That's What She Said

Friends, today we get to know Kathy, a self-proclaimed animal lover and Harry Potter enthusiast who will talk your ear off about both subjects. As she says, "I'm a total nerd and proud of it. I love math." Check out her tale, and as always, I'd love to feature you and your blog, so feel free to emai…

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Man Candy Monday.

Happy day-after-Christmas, friends! Do you have the day off today? I hope you had a lovely holiday with the people you love the most. I had a relaxing day full of games, my mom's delicious fruit salad and a piece or two (<em>or three...</em>) of chocolate -- it's become a tradition every year that we buy a big box of assorted chocolates and eat some while we open gifts.<br /><br />But I digress. I just discovered today's guy over the last few months. He's the star of one of my new <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1837642/">favorite shows</a>. He's talented. He's got one of those inviting smiles. And he makes being bad look downright fun...<br /><br />JOSHUA BOWMAN!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6571780797_e6695ee503_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6571780797_e6695ee503_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6571780697_1ca0b52e7a_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6571780697_1ca0b52e7a_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 587px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6571781851_27c87e3a74_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6571781851_27c87e3a74_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 581px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6571781053_a047261ff0_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6571781053_a047261ff0_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 550px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBlyBwNtkHG83VoHfqCmw4QJ26qqZQH8DmH0IZGgfHnDWuRd2VvcKOgf29IqVZ_hQ9qg-5Mga6Cvt7TPWWCue7viUKdKvuGf8M6hLcAyYVgJdAlY5VDBIqJRK9gRA0e6HtlZ33VMWpyDN/s1600/aa5.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690241396696038786" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBlyBwNtkHG83VoHfqCmw4QJ26qqZQH8DmH0IZGgfHnDWuRd2VvcKOgf29IqVZ_hQ9qg-5Mga6Cvt7TPWWCue7viUKdKvuGf8M6hLcAyYVgJdAlY5VDBIqJRK9gRA0e6HtlZ33VMWpyDN/s400/aa5.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 280px;" /></a><em>"[I like to be] challenged mentally. I like to be, you know, kept on my toes."</em> --<a href="http://www.people.com/people/package/gallery/0,,20315920_20316245_21066678,00.html">PEOPLE magazine</a><br /><br />P.S. I thought it would be fun to have more light-hearted posts this week as we recover from all that holiday merriment! :)

Man Candy Monday.

Happy day-after-Christmas, friends! Do you have the day off today? I hope you had a lovely holiday with the people you love the most. I had a relaxing day full of games, my mom's delicious fruit salad and a piece or two (or three...) of chocolate -- it's become a tradition every year that we buy a b…

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Happy Holidays!

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY8AN3UVHimatuw89vcS6pyGtHy8AnGwk8p9WQwLYJ4yo8mh6JbhwjvfiOisg0Yw8OKo5y-6SEq7aM5_Bp-FgEnRGJYfuaAU3BS6_Abe_9Mb34prbiFqr0w6ZaPxNEN-leQkSH1R9AOdhb/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689461919864981186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY8AN3UVHimatuw89vcS6pyGtHy8AnGwk8p9WQwLYJ4yo8mh6JbhwjvfiOisg0Yw8OKo5y-6SEq7aM5_Bp-FgEnRGJYfuaAU3BS6_Abe_9Mb34prbiFqr0w6ZaPxNEN-leQkSH1R9AOdhb/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a>Happy Friday and Happy Holidays to you all, my dear friends. Here's to a wonderfully relaxing weekend of peace and joy spent with family and friends. I'm sending you <em>giant</em> hug through the computer. Can you feel it? I'll be eating lots of sweets this weekend watching holiday movies (<em>I haven't seen <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/12/whats-your-favorite-holiday-movie.html">Home Alone</a> in ages...</em>). I'll see you all on Monday, but in the meantime, here are my favorite finds from the wonderful Web...<br /><br />What made you <a href="http://www.why-girls-are-weird.com/2011/12/happy-saturday-v84.html">happy</a> this week?<br /><br /><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/2011/12/mad-men-gift-guide.php">Mad Men gift guide</a> = AWESOME!<br /><br />Gorgeous holiday hair <a href="http://diana212m.blogspot.com/2011/12/holiday-hairdo.html">here</a> + <a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/2011/12/holiday-hair-tutorials.html">here</a>.<br /><br />And some glitter <a href="http://withlovefromnisha.blogspot.com/2011/12/glitter-polish.html">nail polish</a>.<br /><br />The greatest <a href="http://www.rollingstone.com/music/photos/the-greatest-rock-and-roll-christmas-songs-20101216">rock & roll</a> Christmas songs.<br /><br />Dream Home: <a href="http://ohmywordblog.blogspot.com/2011/09/canopy-beds-to-curtain-or-not-to.html">Canopy beds</a>. Sigh...<br /><br />A <a href="http://www.glamour.com/sex-love-life/blogs/smitten/2011/12/how-to-survive-the-holidays-as.html">great how-to</a> for enjoying the holidays if you're single.<br /><br />Genius: <a href="http://www.perpetualkid.com/magic-snow-instant-in-a-can.aspx">Snow in a can</a>!<br /><br />Happy <a href="http://www.delightedmomma.com/2011/12/look-back-at-2011.html">one-year blogiversary</a>, Lindsay!<br /><br />Wouldn't you love to go <a href="http://diana212m.blogspot.com/2011/12/travel-fantasy-manatee-watching.html">manatee watching</a>?<br /><br />Mmmm, I never get tired of <a href="http://www.mealdujour.com/2011/12/broccoli-cheddar-soup.html">broccoli cheddar soup</a>! What's your favorite kind of soup?<br /><br />Tiffany is the <a href="http://dancingbranflakes.blogspot.com/2011/12/photo-shoot-by-lake.html">best dancer</a>, isn't she?<br /><br />Vote for <a href="http://www.ardorblog.com/2011/12/vote-for-elliott.html">Elliot</a>!<br /><br />Ooooh, I want this <a href="http://www.katespade.com/womens-wallets/coin-purses/kate-spade-hedgehog-coin-purse/PWRU2559,default,pd.html?dwvar_PWRU2559_color=370&start=42&cgid=new-arrivals">hedgehog coin purse</a>!<br /><br />A <a href="http://flavorwire.com/243196/ranking-tvs-nightlife-destinations-from-worst-to-best">ranking</a> of TV's most popular hangouts.<br /><br />Big question: <a href="http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Ifonlyyouknew/~3/4rJMYvIu_GI/myth-5-friends-cant-share-exes.html">Can friends share exes</a>?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81087182/no-matter-how-dark-8-x-10-giclee-print?ref=sr_43dc526d9b5ea6975d29b2160c082818649c35c3e727a2d7528ac361e11739e3_1319426480_14101629_inspiration_art">So true</a>.<br /><br />A <a href="http://anthropologie.tumblr.com/post/14354649763">satellite view</a> of a frost-covered United Kingdom.<br /><br />How <a href="http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2011/10/03/111003fa_fact_colapinto">famous brands</a> got their names.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYyXawnXLJQxhoxyQgpIqXIinyNFTyclXm6a6l5_P2xN0lZ8_GgjHIYup5FCOIMkB3gd4tGgrPKLVRf93GIj0Dc8CO1OxBEvNG6dzf5Xn7Iw85IjhVGSfSFdNUkcptRDAGRzjnLoLcyvAI/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689461917714246354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYyXawnXLJQxhoxyQgpIqXIinyNFTyclXm6a6l5_P2xN0lZ8_GgjHIYup5FCOIMkB3gd4tGgrPKLVRf93GIj0Dc8CO1OxBEvNG6dzf5Xn7Iw85IjhVGSfSFdNUkcptRDAGRzjnLoLcyvAI/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 262px;" /></a>And I couldn't resist posting <a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/19812393">this graphic</a>. Isn't it cute? xoxo<br /><br />[Photo via <a href="http://justbesplendid.tumblr.com/post/14613128470/christmas">Just Be Splendid</a>]

Happy Holidays!

Happy Friday and Happy Holidays to you all, my dear friends. Here's to a wonderfully relaxing weekend of peace and joy spent with family and friends. I'm sending you giant hug through the computer. Can you feel it? I'll be eating lots of sweets this weekend watching holiday movies (I haven't seen Ho…

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Fashion Friday: The Murse

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6560555495_aac5955dfa_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6560555495_aac5955dfa_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7010/6560551061_825b4acf67_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7010/6560551061_825b4acf67_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6560554305_f375047106_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6560554305_f375047106_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7005/6560552845_9bb2147dfe_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7005/6560552845_9bb2147dfe_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6560556629_dc6bbaa940_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6560556629_dc6bbaa940_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a>Here's a new fashion trend for your Friday, friends: The Murse. I know, I know..it sounds like a dance from the 1960s, but it's the furthest thing from vintage. It's the newest thing in men's fashion, a combination of (<em>you guessed it... </em>) man and purse. A bag for men, if you will. The new blog <a href="http://www.mursegame.com/">Murse Game</a> even chronicles this trend, featuring street-style photos of men proudly showing off their bags. <br /><br />Have you spotted any Murses yet? Fun fact: My father always carried a messenger bag to work, so I figure he started the trend, don't you? :)<br /><br />P.S. More examples of Murses <a href="http://www.mursegame.com/day/2011/12/14">here</a>.<br /><br />[Via <a href="http://www.refinery29.com/mursegame-the-man-purse-blog-with-attitude">Refinery29</a>]

Fashion Friday: The Murse

Here's a new fashion trend for your Friday, friends: The Murse. I know, I know..it sounds like a dance from the 1960s, but it's the furthest thing from vintage. It's the newest thing in men's fashion, a combination of (you guessed it... ) man and purse. A bag for men, if you will. The new blog …

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Chocolate peppermint roll

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJq1xxiSrcv2JixnmsNKKeNETpLlBECHmLJQMqnu1tKFQ1lRVt8eGBJOqPP9Pon73uWjn9ITo1sZfykaFinwRCCpkZyLnI5_MLAoH8_jj6oigYCmcJF-e3NUU_RYfm8rEkb5pVwOF6VHSX/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689359168818655138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJq1xxiSrcv2JixnmsNKKeNETpLlBECHmLJQMqnu1tKFQ1lRVt8eGBJOqPP9Pon73uWjn9ITo1sZfykaFinwRCCpkZyLnI5_MLAoH8_jj6oigYCmcJF-e3NUU_RYfm8rEkb5pVwOF6VHSX/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a>Chocolate <em>and</em> peppermint? I'm sold!<br /><br />P.S. A <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/fashion%20friday">Fashion Friday</a> post coming up! :)<br /><br />[Via <a href="http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2011/12/chocolate-peppermint-roll-with-chocolate-ganache/">Joy The Baker</a>]

Chocolate peppermint roll

Chocolate and peppermint? I'm sold!P.S. A Fashion Friday post coming up! :)[Via Joy The Baker]…

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Would You Rather: Do all your holiday shopping early or wait until the last minute?

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2etlk5t2CGkaJZQNTGZoQ_ADo2SdxFk-sFzwrC7IP7BQjmB7JT9wp51h4WC3S0d3Pd1dXisdngy55M_pVnJwuUOjhxZcFP5RfcymYYGuvNBGyCOGsEZD4FSFPJt25yRI4T1l73TmXJJf/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689043516921980034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2etlk5t2CGkaJZQNTGZoQ_ADo2SdxFk-sFzwrC7IP7BQjmB7JT9wp51h4WC3S0d3Pd1dXisdngy55M_pVnJwuUOjhxZcFP5RfcymYYGuvNBGyCOGsEZD4FSFPJt25yRI4T1l73TmXJJf/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" /></a>Friends, let's have some more holiday fun today, shall we? As we get closer to Christmas (<em>it's only 3 days away now...yikes!</em>), it seems like our calendars may explode with office parties, packing for vacation, cookie baking, family parties, general merriment. Sigh... <br /><br />And one more to-do item on some people's calendars? Shopping. I'll admit that I'm sometimes <em>that</em> person: I leave all my shopping until the last possible second. Not my aunt, though. She usually has all her shopping done by Halloween (<em>can you believe that??</em>).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuprfjnkhRHS6B6wK6FPEzzq7gCFujZRmCKqDKQ0fPmftZBb3SEKZztzaYbxM17aXaWHs91AqAhN9QUu9vtnWC65LQbEa4lBSBy955Tb163TayV7Qbd891AwF-zFtaoIG8eK-qnyrjEv8a/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689043509345715154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuprfjnkhRHS6B6wK6FPEzzq7gCFujZRmCKqDKQ0fPmftZBb3SEKZztzaYbxM17aXaWHs91AqAhN9QUu9vtnWC65LQbEa4lBSBy955Tb163TayV7Qbd891AwF-zFtaoIG8eK-qnyrjEv8a/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><strong>So, friends, I ask you: Would you rather do all of your shopping early or wait until the last second? Do you think doing it early takes away some of the magic of the season? Do you hate battling the crowds when you wait until, say, Christmas Eve? xoxo</strong><br /><br />[Photos via <a href="http://weheartit.com/">We Heart It</a>]

Would You Rather: Do all your holiday shopping early or wait until the last minute?

Friends, let's have some more holiday fun today, shall we? As we get closer to Christmas (it's only 3 days away now...yikes!), it seems like our calendars may explode with office parties, packing for vacation, cookie baking, family parties, general merriment. Sigh... And one more to-do item on some …

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Little Paris paintings

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6551892495_dba69f40ca_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6551892495_dba69f40ca_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 559px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6551892483_facd35e518_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6551892483_facd35e518_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 559px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6551892477_d8b43b38cd_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6551892477_d8b43b38cd_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 559px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6551892459_5f230d6552_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6551892459_5f230d6552_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 559px;" /></a>As I <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/12/etsy-love-heart-shaped-city-prints.html">mentioned</a> before, we're staying close to home for the holidays this year, but these <a href="http://paulferney.bigcartel.com/">beautiful paintings</a> by Paul Ferney make me want to hop on a plane right now. I'd love to see the Eiffel Tower all lit up, wouldn't you, friends? Sigh...

Little Paris paintings

As I mentioned before, we're staying close to home for the holidays this year, but these beautiful paintings by Paul Ferney make me want to hop on a plane right now. I'd love to see the Eiffel Tower all lit up, wouldn't you, friends? Sigh...…

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