tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63771833015487902252024-03-12T18:37:23.002-07:00Mindless Musings… and other things I will probably have to apologize for at some point.Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-25455133920660161632014-01-09T22:55:00.000-08:002014-01-10T13:02:27.821-08:00Schweddy Balls: Surviving Hot Yoga<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In my office at work, I have what I refer to as the “Wall of Shame.” The wall of shame is an ugly oversize bulletin board, where for a long time I displayed my favorite emails/paperwork from employees that illustrated their stupidity and ineptness, or that showcased their tempers-gone-wild. However, nowadays the board serves a purpose larger than just highlighting morons. This corkboard now additionally houses tokens of my Seattle Seahawks love, a sea of inappropriate Someecards, and pictures of my Riley Roo and loved ones. Also, somewhere in the mix of my twisted humor, a few scattered inspirational quotes and bible verses are to be found. <br /><br /> Yesterday morning, the colorful Lululemon printout on my Wall of Shame happened to catch my eye. Side note: I’m aware that it might be in poor taste these days to display Lululemon propaganda with all the “our overpriced yoga pants are only non see-through for skinny people” scandal, but the quote is still good, and quite frankly I don’t care if you can see my ass crack through my yoga pants anyway. But I digress. The quote reads, “Do something today that your future self will thank you for.” Smugly, I mentally patted myself on the back as that very morning I had set my alarm for 4:45am and attended a 90-minute hot yoga class. I would be kicking ass and taking names that day, and my future self was giving me a satisfied nod of approval (and looking extremely fit I might add). Never mind the fact that this was the only activity I’ve really had over the past couple months, surely that didn’t matter. Yep yep yep, New Years resolutions be damned, this was just me being awesome. <br /><br /> Hot yoga is always an interesting experience for me. Mostly because I am not the slightest bit flexible, and let's be honest, I have about as much ability to focus as an ADD kid hyped up on crack- but it is also because hot yoga is 90 minutes of bending like a pretzel in 105 degrees. In my perfect Rachelle world, 90 minutes in 105 degrees would only happen while tanning beachside, with a piña colada in hand, a cabana boy on standby, and not much else. <br /><br /> However, in the spirit of doing a solid for my future self, there I was, dripping with sweat from head to toe in shorts way too tight for my chubby thighs at an ungodly hour of the morning. I’ve never been a fan of tight little booty shorts, on me, or on the majority of the population. This is because spandex, her two besties, lycra and nylon aren’t forgiving, and leave little to the imagination (bitches). Unfortunately though for my ego, and for the eyes of the person behind me, being as close to naked as physically possible is really the wisest strategy when doing Bikram yoga. Loose clothing prove to be a downright nuisance, so tight/barely existing ends up as the best wardrobe option available. <br /><br /> It is truly amazing how much you sweat in these classes, and by amazing I mean disgusting. If the “valley” a.k.a. wannabe cleavage between my two boobs has a sweat river running through it, I don’t even want to think about the other crevices. Although I must say, girls have it easier than their male counterparts. Sweaty boobs are far more palatable and redeemable than sweaty balls. And there were more than a few sets of balls in class that morning. <br /><br /> So there I was, finishing my shoddy rendition of the Dandayamana-Janushirasana pose (basically standing with your head on your knee), and moving into Dandayamana-Dhanurasana, when the instructor reminded us of the importance of looking forward and up, with the admonishment, “where your eyes go, there go you.” As I concentrated on holding my leg and leaning forward in the perfect bow, I lifted my gaze upward and forward. To my amazement the only thing starring back at me were the balls of an overly zealous classmate. Oh let me tell you, tight shorts may leave little to the imagination, but loose shorts sans undies leave nothing to the imagination. Yes, this guy's balls were literally hanging out of his shorts, and I'm pretty sure that his man-dangles were dripping sweat at a faster rate than his face. <br /><br /> Maybe if I were a real grown-up or slightly less juvenile I would have been able to just maintain my concentration, but alas, my yoga brain was being flooded with flashbacks to the beloved Saturday Night Live episode with our dear friend, Pete Schweddy, and his Schweddy balls. It was rapid fire for my brain: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">“Would you like to see my balls now?” “I like the way your balls smell.” “My balls are here for your pleasure.” “There’s no beating my balls.” “No one can resist my Schweddy balls.” “There’s nothing like Schweddy balls.” Oh Mr. Baldwin, if only you, Margaret Jo McCullen and Teri Rialto were here now. <br /><br /> The realization that we were just a little more than a quarter of the way through class caused my SNL highlight reel to quickly jam and fall out of my mind’s projector. Luckily I could barely do that pose anyway, so when this daunting thought jarred me and I nearly lost my balance, no one thought twice. </span><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Some time went by and I was mostly recovered when the next pose came along that required Mr. Schweddy’s goods to be out and making appearances. The locust pose was a little bit trickier, as I only had two options for where to place my face. If I put my face down on the mat, this wasn't pleasant as it really squished the painful zit I had incubating under my skin, and it likewise painfully pressed my swollen PMS boobs. However, option two was looking forward, and I was terrified that Schweddy balls would suck me in like a Star Trek style tractor beam… “where your eyes go, there go you.” I was not about to allow for the possibility of a collision with Schweddy or his testicular water faucets! So... I intently pressed my face and ta-tas into the mat until the pose was over. </span> <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My future self may not care that my zit was disturbed or that my boobs were squished. But she definitely will be grateful that I didn’t hit snooze on the alarm, that I didn’t focus on the wrong thing, and that I did something positive for myself. And if it wouldn’t get me fired, I would have a picture of Mr. Schweddy’s balls as the pinnacle of shame on my office wall. </span></span> </div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-91675785920804843592013-10-31T10:10:00.002-07:002013-10-31T10:37:45.331-07:00Mental Hygiene<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-whft8zXWz8k/UnJuur3yFyI/AAAAAAAAE5s/9WM2zvOLyj8/s1600/IMG_3018.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-whft8zXWz8k/UnJuur3yFyI/AAAAAAAAE5s/9WM2zvOLyj8/s1600/IMG_3018.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I've loved the fall for as long as I can remember. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest I was unknowingly spoiled. The spectacular colors, the clear blue sky, the crisp air, the gentle kisses from the warm sun...and of course, football! There is something whimsical and magical about this season for me, a dynamism that evokes vitality, and an emotional response similar to that of a spiritual experience. I find my outlook on life renewed, my troubles small and manageable, and I feel like a child- giddy and care free. You can feel the energy shift around town as neighborhoods come alive, and the tender autumn days awaken the sleepy streets recovering after the summer’s toil.<br /><br /> My work schedule rarely affords me the opportunity to be outside during the day. However last week, I had a couple appointments that had me running around town mid-day. It was near lunchtime and I decided to stop by home and let my dog out for a few minutes. And since my precious puppy, Prince Riley, completely resents the fact that I have the audacity to leave him for 10 hours a day, any opportunity to make it up to him, I try to redeem.<br /><br /> I love my neighborhood in any season, but I have more affection than ever for my map dot now that autumn is here. Directly across the street from my front door is a park lined with large mature trees, and on the backside of the park there is an off-leash dog area. Next to the dog area is a playground, and adjacent to the playground is an old picturesque brick school building. While this is most definitely an urban neighborhood, there are still many families with small children and plenty of dogs, enough to balance out the homeless people and crack-heads at least.<br /><br /> As Riley and I entered the park, the vivacity of the day was palpable. We walked up the gentle hill, passing a group of several teenagers who were sprawled out on the park’s (rather ugly) sculpture. But instead of smoking, screwing, or doing God knows what, these teens were singing acapella (just imagine a scene from Pitch Perfect). In fact, they sounded so good that Riley and I felt compelled to stop and listen for a few moments. Once I reached the off-leash area of the park, I set Riley free, and watched as he bounced like a bunny, completely forgetting his age and sore hips. He ran around playing with the others dogs, springing in and out of the piles of dry leaves. The sound of children laughing and playing at the nearby playground was prodigious and completely drowned out the noise of the street. A sense of nostalgia took me over and brought me back to my own years of playing outside. It was heavenly.<br /><br /> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">On days like these, a sense of gratitude literally overwhelms me, and I want to simply be carried away by the season. But because I am slightly crazy, I feel a sadness start to creep up inside me, and I am not able to lose myself in the moment as I desire. This happens because I know that before I am ready, the autumn will slip through my fingers, and it will be winter. Every year, as I am caught-up in the height of my love affair with these Indian summers, I simultaneously start to mourn its imminent departure. Why is this? Why can’t I just sit in the beauty of the moment without fearing the melancholy that will set in upon its passing? I pondered this question as I sat on the dry grass and watched my dog attack piles of leaves and clothesline unsuspecting people with the stick he had hanging out of his mouth. Why can’t I turn my mind off, take my thoughts captive, and just “be” in the present? Eventually, it was time to go, and I whistled to Riley. He dropped his head, and slowly started to walk my way, emphasizing his sulk and his displeasure in knowing his time at the park had come to an end.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j8k2DRDl0vc/UnJuwAf5w9I/AAAAAAAAE54/Xg55FVvT9zw/s1600/IMG_3012.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j8k2DRDl0vc/UnJuwAf5w9I/AAAAAAAAE54/Xg55FVvT9zw/s1600/IMG_3012.JPG" width="400" /></a>I feel like my mind can at times behave like an exhausted toddler in the midst of the ‘terrible-two’s”. It throws tantrums, it pouts when it doesn’t get its way, it plays games, it can be mean, jealous, selfish, and it often lacks the ability to intelligently articulate the source of its frustration when it has reached the point of fatigue. Luckily I know my mind; I know its ability to betray me, and its innate need for regular “timeouts.”<br /><br /> If I let my mind run wild, it will isolate me from the world around me- from people, from my experiences, and it most definitely will hold the present moment hostage. An unbridled mind can steal the little blessings, as well as disguise the important purposes. I feel that learning to control and clean-up our thought process is a form of hygiene, mental hygiene.<br /><br />I showed horses growing up, and anyone with an equestrian background understands the unique way in which dirt sticks to your body when riding horses. It really is a mystery how dirt can take up residency in every crevice. And then, after you shower, there is somehow the unforgettable ring of dirt you have to scrub off the shower walls. Playing soccer is uniquely similar, somehow the nasty-factor is exponentially higher than if you were just running or working out. It’s weird. I can’t in good conscious come home from horseback riding and flop down on the couch and relax, or come home from a soccer game and crawl into bed- that would be disgusting, not to mention downright poor hygiene!<br /><br /> So here is my question… Why do we treat our minds any different? They too need to be cleansed. They constantly get caked with crud and develop a residue of rubbish from their activities and responsibilities.<br /> <br />Clearing our minds of clutter is no less necessary (and maybe even more so) than cleaning our bodies, and should have the same value and priority as our physical cleanliness. We need to shake off the shackles the can imprison our minds, so we can be free to tap into our gifts and talents, realign our priorities, and have unveiled eyes in order to see others and the world accurately and with compassion. I believe our awareness is directly related to the condition and health of our minds. “The quality of our life depends on the quality of our mind.”<br /><br />For me, mediation is an effective way to cleanse the mind. This is not to say that fighting the mental battle and learning to be still is easy. Disciplining my mind has been a struggle for me throughout my life. Hell, disciplining any aspect of my existence has been a struggle throughout my life (you would know this to be true if you have ever seen me eat). The art of sitting still is not something that comes naturally to me, I’ve often wondered if I should get an Adderall prescription to help aid the cause. Despite the challenge this presents, I do recognize the importance of working on this area of my life and learning how to control my thoughts.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">To be honest, progress has not come overnight. In fact, my initial attempts at meditation resulted in many successful naps, and not much else. The only benefit I gained, beyond getting in a little rest, was learning that I am not one who can meditate lying down. (Side note: this is equally true for me in yoga – I have had an embarrassing moment or two of dozing off at the end of class). I’ve also learned that I am easily distracted - please feel free to reference an earlier blog post </span><a href="http://www.futureapologies.com/2012/07/art-of-deferment.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">http://www.futureapologies.com/2012/07/art-of-deferment.html</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">. Recently, I was sick and discovered that even the sound of breathing through my stuffy nose proved enough to cause me to lose focus. Often even a simple smudge on the window can put me into a tailspin of commotion and cleaning. It seems that the very second I start to quiet my mind, the floodgates of “to-dos” opens and begins to pour over me. I’ve learned that this is the moment I must patiently wait through, so that my mind can catch its breath and re-center.<br /> <br />The thing about mediation is that regardless of one’s spiritual views or religious affiliation, most of us would agree that there is significant value in unhooking from the noise of the day-to-day, stilling our minds and spending time in silence. Maybe you pray, maybe you chant, or maybe you simply reflect. Perhaps this is a time to disconnect, or reconnect, or both. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YDDVmMW7QE/UnJuvoYYn1I/AAAAAAAAE5w/60509mMhsig/s1600/IMG_2992.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YDDVmMW7QE/UnJuvoYYn1I/AAAAAAAAE5w/60509mMhsig/s1600/IMG_2992.jpg" width="300" /></a>In what seems like forever ago, I read a book titled The Practice of the Presence of God. The book is a compilation of sayings from the 17th century French monk, Brother Lawrence. One of the book’s consistent themes is learning to be in constant awareness of God’s presence, and training our minds to see no separation between the divine and the natural. Brother Lawrence writes, “The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer, and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament.” This resounds with me, and I long for this ability. To be able to not as much “set aside time for the spiritual,” but rather to incorporate my spirituality into my entire existence.<br /><br /> The Buddhists have given us many teachings on different meditation styles that train us how to detach from the external, and transform our minds. By learning to develop concentration and clarity, you can master the patterns of your mind, and focus on cultivating a new way of understanding and processing life. There is a reason people say “just breathe” when someone is freaking the f@#! out. Focusing on breathing can bring us back to the present. Modern medicine and science also show us the value of meditation even on a cellular level. Right now we are even seeing the value of mental cleansing being recognized in the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks (go Hawks). Pete Carroll is attempting to change the way players are cared for as individuals. Commenting on the team’s new meditation time, Russell Wilson, the Seahawks star quarterback said, “We talk about being in the moment and increasing chaos throughout practice, so when I go into the game, everything is relaxed.” </span><a href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/9581925/seattle-seahawks-use-unusual-techniques-practice-espn-magazine"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/9581925/seattle-seahawks-use-unusual-techniques-practice-espn-magazine</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> .<br /><br /> While I have no aspirations to strap on a helmet, don an orange robe, or move into a convent, I believe that my attempts at practicing proper mental hygiene are improving my quality of life. As I continue to hone these skills, I am hopeful that soon I’ll be able to hold my ground, even when wave after wave of distractions crash through my mind. And who knows, perhaps before the leaves finish falling, I will be able to just sit outside and get lost in the season. Instead of allowing my thoughts to say, “This is so wonderful, it will be over soon, and I will long for this moment for months,” I will just be able to say, “This is so wonderful, thank you,” and enjoy the moment for what it is- a precious gift.</span> <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-j8k2DRDl0vc%2FUnJuwAf5w9I%2FAAAAAAAAE54%2FXg55FVvT9zw%2Fs1600%2FIMG_3012.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j8k2DRDl0vc/UnJuwAf5w9I/AAAAAAAAE54/Xg55FVvT9zw/s1600/IMG_3012.JPG" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5YDDVmMW7QE%2FUnJuvoYYn1I%2FAAAAAAAAE5w%2F60509mMhsig%2Fs1600%2FIMG_2992.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YDDVmMW7QE/UnJuvoYYn1I/AAAAAAAAE5w/60509mMhsig/s1600/IMG_2992.jpg" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-whft8zXWz8k%2FUnJuur3yFyI%2FAAAAAAAAE5s%2F9WM2zvOLyj8%2Fs1600%2FIMG_3018.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-whft8zXWz8k/UnJuur3yFyI/AAAAAAAAE5s/9WM2zvOLyj8/s1600/IMG_3018.JPG" -->Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-90691818545941880452013-09-29T23:43:00.001-07:002013-10-31T13:22:08.340-07:00Things No One Warns You About <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS Mincho";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"?l?r ??fc";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Mincho";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:11.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Mincho";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Most of us realize that some of the amazing perks of our early years fade as we enter adulthood. One such benefit that comes to mind (other than naps) is being able to eat copious amount of unhealthy food without any impact to your waistline. Unfortunately, as the responsibilities of full-time employment, college, and other grown-up activities find us, there is potential to pack on some serious poundage. Most likely, if you don’t modify food intake or step-up activity levels, you may be saying goodbye to that tight little teenage body you didn’t realize you should have appreciated so much more all those years. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">That possibility was looming over my head like an ACME anvil, when I first moved to San Diego in the summer of 2001, and I was very mindful that it was feasible I would need to revamp my approach to exercise as I started this next chapter of my life (um hello, food is never negotiable. It has to be the exercise piece for me). </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I can see myself as being a very impulsive person. If left unchecked, I have the propensity to jump head-first into things that I have very limited information about. This was never more apparent to me then during my first summer in San Diego. I was in full-on broke college student mode (you know, when your shopping cart has nothing in it other than Cup-O-Noodles, Mac & Cheese, and damaged discounted canned goods). I hadn’t found (or looked) for a job, and really hadn’t made any friends yet, so logically I was spending my afternoons feverishly working on my tan. I had heard the best job-hunting time was between 8:00-11:00am and/or 4:00 – 7:00pm anyway, so it was a no brainer. My daily routine was quickly established as rotating between the apartment pool and the nearby beach. When the sun would get too hot for my native NW skin (you can’t rush these things…slow cooking leaves the meat far more succulent), I would retreat to my tiny 600 sq. ft. apartment for a Cup-O-Noodle and to watch either an episode of Gilmore Girls, Friends, or 7th Heaven. This was a glorious 6-week season in my life… unemployed, tanner than a pint of Guinness, and watching mediocre reruns midday. My biggest stress was finding enough change to buy tanning oil and patches for my Dollar Store pool floatie that would constantly spring a leak. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">One afternoon during my daytime TV sun break, I watched an infomercial for a product called the Abtronic. You can read about the Abtronic online if you want, but let me summarize for you: It is a belt you strap around your waist that basically electrocutes your Abs. The idea is that the electric current contracts your abdominal muscles and is equivalent to doing sit-ups. The big selling point was you could wear it under your clothes at work, in class, or even as you did house work, and it would be like you were doing sit-ups all day long. BRILLIANT! Thoughts of my future Sports Illustrated worthy bronze abs were already dancing through my Mac & Cheese brain! This is just what I needed to combat the results of the processed food, schoolwork, and job I would soon have. I don’t know if it was the sun, or my ridiculously high IQ being dumbed-down by the sheer proximity to SoCal girls, or perhaps it is what happens when loneliness and boredom are allowed to go unchecked for too many weeks in a row. Regardless, my broke ass decided that I must immediately order this overpriced item. After all, once I found a job I’d be back to eating 5 hearty meals per day and could totally pay my “emergencies only” credit card back for this purchase. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">When my beloved Abtronic arrived, I knew it was a piece of crap instantly. Not wanting to admit too quickly that I was a complete fool, I used it anyway. Multiple 2nd degree burns to my abdomen later, and one what-I-swear-to-this-day was “the cheapest abortion since the coat hanger” (and the most unintentional), I realized my impulsive nature needed to be addressed right then and there. Side note: Please ponder the physical symptoms I experienced that would have caused me to think I had a WalMart style abortion. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Over 12 years have come and gone since the infamous Abtronic catastrophe of 2001, and I feel confident that my endeavors for rock hard abs are far more respectable. Not that I have actually arrived at “respectable” or “rock hard abs” but I am definitely to a point of proactively participating in my fitness rather than just relying on AA batteries and an infomercial gimmick. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So here I am today, having crossed the sacred threshold into my 30s with the dream of a perfect teenage body & metabolism as distant memory, and I am forced to actually find real tools to help me avoid becoming a blimp. Recently, I was duped into joining CrossFit. As I mentioned in a previous blog post, I struggle at CrossFit. Not just because I’m physically weak, which I am, but because I am painfully uncoordinated. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">CrossFit is different in the sense that you can’t be half-assed about it, and unfortunately for me, half-assed just so happens to be my modus operandi for all things exercise. The entire structure of the class forces you to be accountable and perform at a level beyond your capacity. I can’t decide if I think it’s complete bull-shit or completely brilliant. Now, a couple months into my CrossFit experience, and still retaining my status as the “weakest link” in all of CrossFit history, I am actually starting to move beyond half-assed.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Signing up in the first place may have been a relapse of impulsive Rachelle from the Abtronic era, but it is proving to require far more commitment. Sure at the average 6:00am class I still show up with wine stains on my lips from the night before, and once I even had my pants on inside out because I woke up late and ran out the door in a hurry. But that’s hardly relevant. I am showing up more consistently and I am getting through the workouts without contemplating pulling the fire alarm. This might be because I haven’t located the fire alarm trigger, but I’d like to think it is because I’m improving and that I really do want to stay the course and push myself beyond my ability. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps impulsiveness was my saving grace in this instance, because had I known some of things I would go through due to CrossFit, I probably would have never shown up on day one. I’m not even talking about the fact that I have swallowed my own puke three times now, or that my hands could easily pass for belonging to a lumberjack or gymnast because of the calluses- that stuff is superficial child’s play. I can deal with barf and man-hands. But I’m referring to the things that no one warns you about, the things that weed out an impulsive Abtronic-style participant from the committed-to-the-cause participant. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Example: One morning last week, as part of the daily workout (I refuse to use the acronym WOD) we had to do 100 burpees and 100 kettlebell swings with a time cap. Now keep in mind, I am usually tired by the time we finish the warm up. Needless to say, that night I was hurting. My shoulders were burning, and my arms and upper body were sore and tight. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">When your muscles are sore you find yourself compensating or modifying your regular movements for even the most basic life functions. Now let me pause here. I have pondered if I should even share this moment of my life with the general public and/or the two people who actually read my blog (Hi mom! Hi Grandma!) because even typing it out makes me shudder. But let’s be real, there are just certain things we ALL do, and being raised with three brothers I am not one to shy away from potty talk when the story is good enough. Having said that, I will tone it down a bit and spare you the graphic detail a lucky few received (you’re welcome).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Being as sore as I was, I decided to treat my aching body to a nice soak in the bathtub. I poured myself a glass of wine as the water was running, made sure my docking station was in the bathroom so I could listen to some tunes, and was looking forward to winding down after a long day. I kicked my clothes off and decided I should probably make a quick flyby the “loo” before submerging into my lavender water oasis. Here enters a little CrossFit repercussion no one bothered to mention to me. The basic act of going to the bathroom turns into a challenge. I mean just sitting down on the toilet and standing back up is no picnic when you’re sore, but having to follow-up with the whole toilet paper portion when your arms and shoulders are throbbing is ridiculously painful (guys you’re lucky you get to the dodge the bullet on this one most of the time). I was not about to let a little toilet trouble keep me from my steaming hot bath, I needed to suck it up or I would be soaking in tepid water – not acceptable. So I did what any resourceful woman or athlete would do, I “modified” the “exercise.” Done & done. With a measure of pride, after successfully completing the full toilet experience, I quickly stood up. As I popped up, I shook my head to get my hair out of my face. Pre-bath or not, I’m not about to touch my hair or face before washing my hands- Gross! As my hair whipped around, I felt something wet touch both my back and my boob simultaneously. Hmmmm. Now that’s interesting I thought to myself. Where did this liquid come from? I looked down and in horror realized that the bottom two inches of my hair were actually quite wet. Apparently in my creative way of practicing impeccable hygiene while being CrossFit sore, I had bent to a point where my hair was actually touching… yes, the toilet water. “How is this even possible?” “I don’t think my hair is even that long.” “I don’t think I’m that flexible” “Holy hell I think I’m going to vomit.” These thoughts, among others, were all racing through my mind. As I struggled under the weight of the moment, I remember wondering if I did puke, would this count as #4 on my CrossFit vomit chart?</span></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r3CxN52K2fE/UkkggelWwaI/AAAAAAAAE4g/r4XHqYXC9Nw/s1600/photo+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r3CxN52K2fE/UkkggelWwaI/AAAAAAAAE4g/r4XHqYXC9Nw/s400/photo+1.PNG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Words of wisdom from a true friend</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Of course there was no way I could possibly enjoy my bath now. That would be like taking a few extra laps around a toilet water pool. I unplugged the drain, and turned on the shower and proceeded to wash my hair until I ran out of shampoo – 4x in case anyone was wondering.</span></span><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Xrx427kib4/Ukkgg9dvMYI/AAAAAAAAE4k/REnVGwpked0/s1600/photo+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Xrx427kib4/Ukkgg9dvMYI/AAAAAAAAE4k/REnVGwpked0/s320/photo+2.PNG" height="188" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">While I think it would have been a courteous gesture for the staff at CrossFit to warn me that their workouts could lead to my vulnerable and naked body being doused with “used” toilet water, It’s probably best they didn’t… as I may have passed on the CrossFit experience all together. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps the combination of no warning labels and impulsiveness are the only way to get things done sometimes. </span></span></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-39379735075857594302013-09-19T09:45:00.001-07:002013-09-19T10:48:24.610-07:00Sleeping Arrangements <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">No one likes having their sleep disturbed, count me in this group. Granted, a few super humans are somehow able to function with erratic sleep patterns or very little sleep; I however am not one of them. My personality tends to be rather cantankerous and mischievous in ideal circumstances, throwing the delicate balance off with sleep deprivation is never a good thing. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">So here I am, wide awake, staring at a clock that reads 3:08am, but slightly hesitant to allow myself to fall back asleep. This is because about 15 minutes ago I woke up after having a vividly dark nightmare about someone trying to kill me. Yes, I’m sure Jung, Freud, and a handful of others could dissect the graphic details of this dream and explain in no uncertain terms why I am slightly crazy. But I already know this about myself, so I don’t see how that will be helpful in the current moment. I’m mostly worried about returning to a place of peace, so I can return to restful sleep. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cUZx_Lrbifs/Ujsf0gX5rXI/AAAAAAAAE28/6nqmra-4D9c/s1600/Riley.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cUZx_Lrbifs/Ujsf0gX5rXI/AAAAAAAAE28/6nqmra-4D9c/s1600/Riley.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cUZx_Lrbifs/Ujsf0gX5rXI/AAAAAAAAE28/6nqmra-4D9c/s1600/Riley.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">When the uncommon nightmare predicament presents itself, I typically have three trusty go-to strategies that I can faithfully rely on.<br />1) Praying or talking it out with myself or with Riley. Who by the way is also upset that his sleep has been interrupted (oh I can just imagine how disheveled his fur will look come sun-up). Something about my racing heart and sweat drenched body (fear sweats are the worst) has made Riley slightly resentful of my requirement for him to cuddle with me right now. Annoyed puppy aside, I have found that identifying the thoughts and addressing them by name can aid in putting things back into perspective. <br />2) Watch a comedy. Countless nights have I shaken off haunting thoughts with How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Friends reruns, How I Met Your Mother, or various other lighthearted entertainment. <br />3) Lullabies. No, I don’t call my mom and ask her to sing to me. Although I’m quite confident that she would come over with her guitar and bust out Peter, Paul, and Mary in a heartbeat if the situation required. Hhhmm…this has me thinking, would I request “Blowin’ in the Wind” or “Puff, The Magic Dragon?” However, I am actually referring to a playlist, entitled “Lullabies” that I created containing songs that at one time or another I deemed as comforting or soothing. So at this unholy hour, I grab my phone, select Lullabies from the list, and hit “shuffle.” The song that plays first is an old one, but does the trick… “In open fields of wild flowers, she breathes the air and flies away…” Thank you Jars of Clay.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">As I sit here, I think of how over the past two weeks my sleep has been interfered with time and again. I begin to wonder how things went awry, and if unknowingly I have somehow been set on a course of increasingly sleepless nights.<br /><br />It all started two weeks ago, at the very beginning of a flight from the West Coast to London when the woman in the seat next to me dropped an entire cup of coffee in my lap as she was taking it from the flight attendant. This would have been </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vmvtg5bmBXc/UjsgGzdbaQI/AAAAAAAAE3E/P7g2zzVz5jA/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vmvtg5bmBXc/UjsgGzdbaQI/AAAAAAAAE3E/P7g2zzVz5jA/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="200" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">unpleasant in any circumstance, but it was made especially awful because I still had almost 10 hours of flight time before I had hopes of reuniting with my checked back and a change of clothes. Normally, sleeping on a plane is no trouble for me. In fact, I have actually slept from takeoff to touchdown on those long flights before. However, being forced to sit there with a hot wet crotch (no, that is not supposed to be sexual- get your mind out of the gutter! sheesh!) would prove to make sleep hard to come by on this particular flight.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I eventually arrived in London, and quickly made my way to the Piccadilly Line and headed to Cambridge where I would be meeting up with my brother. Being the all-star procrastinator and poor planner that I am, I had not booked a hotel room for the first night. My brother was speaking at a conference, and had been provided lodging in the dorms on campus. But this wasn’t an option for me, so I was supposed to find a place for my first night. Apparently Cambridge is a popular weekend destination (who da thunk?), and there were no hotels, no hostels, and no guesthouses available. Now I know the Brits have a slew of anti-homelessness measures, including a recent No Second Night Out pilot program created in 2011 by one of their many ministries. To be honest, I was just worried about my first night being “out.” Although, by this point, quite frankly, I would have been fine to sleep in a stairwell or under a bridge. That’s how exhausted I was after my travels. After my brother and I evaluated our options (or lack thereof), we decided that I really didn’t have any other choice but for me to crash in his dorm room (flashback to UW circa the late 90s). I was convinced I would have no problem sleeping across a table/desk in the room, but sheepishly this brilliant idea lasted all of 30 seconds. My brother then graciously threw some blankets and pillows on the floor and laid down on the cold tile so his little sister could sleep in the bed. Feeling guilty about a conference speaker having to sleep on the tile floor, I suggested we try to share the bed. So there we were back-to-back with a pillow separating us, on a twin bed, both vowing we’d never speak of the incident (oops). <br /><br />The next night, as luck would have it, quality sleep proved to be elusive as well. We had a full day and traveled for several hours, and were staying in a dorm style hostel. I woke up around 3:30am to the most obnoxious snoring I have ever heard in my life. I kid you not, the snoring sounded like a cross between a garbage disposal and nasally pig with its head in a trough amplified for a stadium crowd. After lying awake enduring this fate for hours on end, I was teetering on the verge of violence. I actually had my shoe in my hand and was seriously considering huffing it at his face while seething with anger. My only consolation, and that fat bastard’s only saving grace was the fact that the sounds coming from him were not those of a healthy man, and compassionately I reasoned that chances are his insalubrious lifestyle would catch up with him, and he wouldn’t continue to afflict the masses with sleeplessness for much longer. I had to refer back to my nightmare tool kit here as well… <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vL0lNmPXBiI/UjspmIpWkdI/AAAAAAAAE4A/wP17VLWIgJE/s1600/Untitled2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vL0lNmPXBiI/UjspmIpWkdI/AAAAAAAAE4A/wP17VLWIgJE/s1600/Untitled2.png" height="169" width="320" /></a><br />1) Prayer – Dear God please don’t let me do anything to this sweaty slug that could get me thrown in prison. <br />2) Comedy – getting my iPhone out and taking his picture and recording the sound of his snores. <br />3) Lullabies – putting my headphones in and cranking up my music in a futile attempt to drown out the awful noises. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Fortunately as the week went on, my accommodations improved and sans a few random incidents involving spiders and a naked stranger sleeping in our room by mistake (while touching himself awkwardly), my sleep quota began to return to normal. (Stay tune for a future blog post- the tale of a naked vagabond defiling Mike’s bed)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Apparently, I can add blogging as option #4 to my nightmare recovery plan, as it is now 3:47am, and I seem ready to go back to sleep.<br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Zzzzz…</span></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-44023006844301463072013-07-30T00:01:00.002-07:002013-09-25T09:26:20.781-07:00Nakedness, CrossFit, and Kip Moore<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Wingdings;
panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:2;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-font-charset:78;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing
{mso-style-priority:1;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style>
<br />
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Wingdings;
panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:2;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Wingdings;
panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:2;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:10.0pt;
margin-left:0in;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing
{mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:11.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I would have never thought that before 7:30am on a random Monday, that I would
have shown my wet naked body to my mom’s neighbors, that I could be the reason
for a 911 call, or that I’d have the potential opportunity to stare down the barrel of my
overzealous mother’s handgun. How did I find myself in such a
predicament? Here’s the back-story…</span> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Every
now and again, I wake up in the morning and just decide to be awesome. I
mean really, everyone needs to deviate from the status quo from time-to-time,
right? I was having one of those days a few weeks ago when my friend,
Hilaree, and I decided to try the ever-so-popular CrossFit. Like most
people, I had been hearing about CrossFit for a while. But I never really had
any interest because I equated it to merely a trend- similar to a run-of-mill
fad diet, a LiveStrong yellow bracelet, or P90X. In our Western world, we
are constantly inundated with the next big “thing”, and I was not about to jump
on the bandwagon to be just another aficionada or fan of the latest craze.
C’mon, I’ve never been popular or trendy, why start now? But over the
past several months I've had friends, whose opinions I value, get involved with
CrossFit and tell me their stories (Ryan & John you are to blame).
I’d also read about how down-to-earth and nice everybody was. With all this
talk of no pretension and body transformation, I thought to myself, “Hhhhmmm,
sounds doable.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">So
there I was, Rachelle’s first day of CrossFit 101.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Being
the stellar overachieving athlete that I am (cough, cough, throat clearing
sound), I prepared for my first workout throughout the day by eating Taco Bell
for lunch, and downing a margarita in the afternoon. I had anxiety
all day thinking about my first class, but I decided to put my big girl panties
on, and show up anyway. Brad, our coach, was awesome. He was super nice,
extremely encouraging, very helpful, and beyond patient. I was relieved
that Brad would be our coach throughout the next two weeks. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Class
two was a bit more difficult. This could have been because I was stressed about
being late, traffic was horrible, I still had my dog with me, or it could
possibly have been because I had two lemon drops prior to working out.
Whatever it was, pulling my flabby body up over a bar, endless burpees, and too
many squats to count, just about killed me that day. CrossFit – 2,
Rachelle – 0.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Class
three I skipped (winning). I blame the incompetent employee in our Utah
office whose epic blunder required that I stay at work until after 8:00pm.
She also caused me to miss the first day of the Nordstrom sale, so she is
definitely on my crap list. I swear the only good thing about Utah is my
friend, Jessica, and lets be honest, she’s from the NW originally.
But I digress. Actually, I heard class three was a doozie, with lots of box
jumps and kettle bell swings. Perhaps I dodged a bullet by missing this
class. Okay Utah, you’re off the hook for now.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">During
the fourth class, I felt like a developmentally challenged kindergartener who
was held back for eating paste and not being able to tie her shoes.
Everything seemed so difficult for my brain to process. Take
for example those double unders, I mean really?? How hard is it to make
that damn rope make two passes per jump instead of one?? Well, let me tell
you, my bleeding shins and the one-on-one “coaching” I required, says it
apparently takes more coordination than I possess. I had a momentary
flashback to my elementary school playground and wondered if busting out in
song would help my skills, “Miss Suzy had a tugboat, the tugboat had a bell,
Miss Suzy went to heaven, Rachelle was in HELL!” I also had a hard time
with the push jerks and power snatches. Sadly, I did not get to hear anyone
tell me, “Nice snatch!” After fighting through a slow start, I did feel as if I
was beginning to get the hang of things and show some improvement. Maybe
I’ll pass summer school and move up to first grade with the rest of my class
after all. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">The
fifth day was my favorite (for fatty lazy reasons). Brad showed us proper
techniques for some of the more difficult lifts. I may have blocked out the
awful, but the class seemed more about instruction than destruction, and I
quite liked it. At one point I did have to chuckle though, Brad referenced Gym
Jones. Sure, he was referring to Gym Jones the training philosophy of
some mountain climber. But when I heard Jim Jones, I immediately
thought about that whack-job cult leader infamous for the 1978 mass murder/
suicide. Perhaps these CrossFit/Paleo types ARE slightly reminiscent
of religious fanatics of some kind. It made me wonder if I should
be concerned about the water from the drinking fountain being laced with
cyanide. Thank goodness I had brought my own bottle from home.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
Our sixth class was the final. It was great! We ran through the baseline again
and were able to see our improvement since the first class (thank God my time
actually did go down). For me, the highlight of this class was doing the
handstands. I found it to be a fun way to mix things up, and it was something
my uncoordinated ass could actually do. I’ll skip over the fact that my
lifting form is still subpar and I had to be babysat yet again!!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Which
brings me to today…<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Hilaree
and I took our first official CrossFit class after completing the 101
series (no training wheels for us this morning). I was
again ridiculously nervous, not because I care about appearing weak or crapping
myself in a state of utter fatigue, but just because most of the exercises are
so foreign to me, and for some reason my brain struggles to simply “see and
do.” If you think I’m exaggerating, ask anyone who has seen me dance sober or
trained with me (there is a reason I run instead). The class ended up going
well. I’m so glad I went, even if I had to be corrected a zillion times for
using my arms in the power clean. When we were done, I grabbed my bag and
headed for a quick shower. Unfortunately, I realized that I had forgotten my
soap and face wash. This probably adds to the case of packing my bag
before I consumed my evening wine. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Thinking
quickly on my feet, this was no problem, my mom lived just a few miles away and
I could just run over there to shower, and then head to work. I
shot her a warning text saying I was stopping by for a quick shower, and then I
got in my car and headed off. When I arrived, I unlocked the door,
then relocked it behind me and headed upstairs to use her shower (and her
expensive products). Her dog greeted me and trotted down the hallway
wagging her tail the whole way. My mom was still asleep, so I shut
the bathroom door and took my shower. I wasn’t especially quiet; I
dropped a few things, and even rocked out to Kip Moore a bit. And I must day, I
feel I delivered a strong performance... “Something about a truck in a field and
a girl in a red sundress with an ice cold beer to her lips, begging for another
kiss… Something about you and me and the birds and the bees and Lord have mercy
it's a beautiful thing, ain't nothing about it luck, something about a truck!”
Yes! Definitely Grammy worthy. When I got out of the shower, I called out
to my mom because I was looking for lotion, but no response. So I stuck
my head out and realized she wasn’t in her bed. Assuming she had
gone downstairs to take her dog out, I walked my naked wet ass out into the
hallway and called to her again… I heard her very nearby voice say
“Sissy, is that you?” Much to my surprise, there was a welcoming committee
waiting at the top of the stairs, and all eyes were on me.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HXZvnsHwLi8/UffsvPUHc6I/AAAAAAAAE14/aCbqSRYrydA/s1600/photo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HXZvnsHwLi8/UffsvPUHc6I/AAAAAAAAE14/aCbqSRYrydA/s200/photo.PNG" width="133" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Apparently, my mom never saw the text, and woke up to someone in
the house, and naturally thought that clearly it MUST be an intruder. Yeah,
because most intruders lock the door behind them after entering, leave their
purse in the hallway, find the shower furthest from the exit, and bathe.
Either way, she alerted the neighbors, and they all agreed that calling 911 was
a reasonable solution. Luckily I surprised them before they had decided whether
or not to beat me to death with my grandfather’s antique golf clubs or to shoot
me…but I assure you both were ready and viable options for this crowd.
The comedy of the situation rapidly relieved the panic my impromptu shower
visit had caused, although not quickly enough- we did stand around laughing and
talking a bit longer than you would think… especially considering I was still
naked.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-19301796093454839092013-06-17T23:00:00.000-07:002013-06-18T14:20:41.121-07:00The Man Sitting in 8C<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve experienced no shortage of social “low points” in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, probably more than my fair share and definitely more than a single blog post can contain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The majority of these experiences come only at the expense of my superficiality, and wound nothing more than my ego.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, every now and then, I have a social failure powerful enough to undermine the confidence I have in the type of person I am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually though, my blunders are of the sort that become self-deprecating comedy, as soon as the pain of the moment has passed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For instance, a recent low point involved a mishap with my dog’s stool sample. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The vet had asked that I bring one in a couple weeks ago, and being the responsible pet owner that I am, I happily obliged. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I gathered the goods into the vial they provided, then put the vial into a plastic bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I was already juggling my work bag and laptop, I placed the plastic bag on the top of my purse. Before heading to the vet, I made a necessary stop at my neighborhood Starbucks. This is where it all went wrong. During their ever-busy morning rush, while attempting to pay, the vial somehow managed to roll out onto the counter, horrifying employees and customers alike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no disguising what was within this clear plastic tube!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Heh… whoops.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another low point that comes to mind was a couple months ago, when I tripped over a sleeping homeless man while walking down the sidewalk because I was texting and not paying attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had my foot not literally been snagged on the 10 or so inches of sleeping bag that were hanging out of the entry way to the school, I would not have even known there was a person there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talk about no social awareness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only did my scraped hands and chipped phone feel the folly of that pathetic moment, but I’m pretty sure the sleeping man felt it as well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-et5aPX5_VSw/UcBYUMu95MI/AAAAAAAAEy4/Ej7JbmHsi_U/s1600/205415_1033784967890_8354_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-et5aPX5_VSw/UcBYUMu95MI/AAAAAAAAEy4/Ej7JbmHsi_U/s1600/205415_1033784967890_8354_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>One of my favorite charting topping “holy hell I’m a train wreck” stories was several years ago when I was volunteering in Sri Lanka after the Indian Ocean Tsunami.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The accommodations were primitive, so when I had to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, I grabbed a flashlight and navigated a maze of sleeping bodies and cots. Once inside the makeshift bathroom, I assumed a gold medal worthy gymnast stance and strategically held the flashlight in my armpit while I hovered over the hole in the ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At some point, apparently I shifted slightly, because the light illuminating from the flashlight moved from directly in front of my face to the corner of the wooden stall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> half a second I went from proudly holding my impeccable yet awkward pee pose, to instant terror. Less than 18 inches from my vulnerable body was a giant Sri Lankan spider (I dare you to Google “Spiders in Sri Lanka” I DARE YOU).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The light reflecting on this heinous creature’s no-doubt-steroid-ridden body was enough to cause my heart to explode through my chest, mouth, and ass all at once. The size and proximity of this bloodthirsty monster terrified me to my core. I swear to this day I aged 10 years in those 10 seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a panic, I jostled sideways towards the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately I was still mid “relief” and ended up peeing all over my legs and feet while fleeing for my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Emotionally defeated by a lifelong foe, and now covered in my own urine I went back to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a low point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must add it was probably a low point for unknowing Brecke, my dear friend, who has no idea she was sharing a cot with my freshly sprinkled legs.<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Incidents like these require little recovery time. However, I also have committed blunders of a different sort. These mishaps cause me to shudder deep within and experience a shame that is hard to shake…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like when I boarded my Virgin America flight at LAX this week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was off to a bad start, already evidencing a lapse in judgment by booking this flight in the first place. 99% of the time, I fly partner airlines within my mileage plan. I do so not only because I’m a mileage whore, but also because it is addicting to receive complimentary first class upgrades, and the ensuing priority treatment and the bottomless booze that comes with MVP Gold status. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, nothing against Virgin America (they are probably one of the more classy acts in town), but once coach and the travel woes of the common man have become a part of your distant past, it is really hard to go back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Despite the protesting of my ambitions to be treated like a wannabe rock-star, I couldn’t pass up the insanely cheap flight Virgin was offering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v3WLuUbXTBk/UcBYElM1KxI/AAAAAAAAEyw/vQiK6uIM7Lo/s1600/IMG_7988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v3WLuUbXTBk/UcBYElM1KxI/AAAAAAAAEyw/vQiK6uIM7Lo/s1600/IMG_7988.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So there I am… walking my half-awake body down the aisle of the Airbus A320. In full early-morning exhaustion, I reluctantly plod into the “economy experience” and reach my row.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My seat assignment would park me in seat 8A, which is a window (a bad omen already… my claustrophobic need to flee, strongly prefers the aisle).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The guy occupying the coveted aisle seat was busy playing a video game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I politely smiled and said, “Excuse me.” He briefly looked up and went back to his game, saying, “Hang on- can’t pause my game now.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Huh?? Well that is interesting, I thought to myself. As the passengers boarding behind me were starting to pile up, I studied his face while he continued play, obviously oblivious. I deduced that there might be too much crazy under the surface of this socially inept gamer for me to tangle with pre-coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once he got around to pausing his game and put his tray table up, he scooted his legs to the side and said, “Just climb over me”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I snickered to myself, confident that I had accurately assessed him in my two minute snap judgment, and decided that maybe I did want to have a “Come-to-Jesus” meeting with this 30-something year old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, since there were children present and I was feeling poised and diplomatic, I replied with a syrupy sweet, “I would prefer to not climb over you in my dress, sir.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Without even looking up he pressed his body into the chair to allow the most room possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seemingly pleased with his own problem solving skills, he said, “You’re small, you can fit.” Normally I’m not one to cave. Obstinacy usually only provokes me, but since I was blocking the aisle and holding up all the other passengers, I decided to acquiesce and squeezed/tumbled into my seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The audacity of his behavior was only heightened when he immediately started playing his video game again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In due time the flight proceeds, after landing I ensured all my belongings were ready, so I could get off the plane as quickly as possible because I had a work meeting to make.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What should have only taken moments considering I was in row 8, was taking way longer than necessary because Mr. 8C decided he would just sit there and let every row behind us deplane first while he played his game!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was ridiculous!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After several rows behind had passed, I kindly asked if I could get by. As he exhaled a disapproving sigh, he slowly scooted out of his seat and crossed over into the seat across the aisle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instantly my heart sank, there was definitely something wrong with this man’s legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed his legs one by one and pulled them in front of himself and resumed playing his video game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thanked him and slowly walked off the plane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once inside the jet way, I could see a wheelchair that I assumed was awaiting Mr. 8C.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While I’m thankful I had remained gracious and polite during my interaction with this man, I couldn’t help but feel grossly ashamed for my thoughts and internal attitudes about my dealings with this less-than-friendly individual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a good reminder that yes, sometimes people are difficult because they are just douchebags, but also that other people are difficult because they are dealing with something very valid. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was definitely a social “near miss” for me. I am confident that I would rather be the girl who grosses out the customers at Starbucks with my dog’s feces, falls on my face, or gets pee all over myself and a friend, than to be someone who does not show social grace to the average weirdo on a plane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need to be kind, because we have no idea what obstacles people have battled before they reach the moment when their path crosses ours.</div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-6513306687440569452013-05-27T19:22:00.002-07:002013-06-18T08:43:07.495-07:00Bored in the USA<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS ??";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"MS Mincho";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS ??";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
span.redheadingnew
{mso-style-name:redheadingnew;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-parent:"";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS ??";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
--</style><style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-font-charset:78;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing
{mso-style-priority:1;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: large;">When you’re dining alone, you can’t help but eavesdrop on the conversations going on around you. Well, maybe you can, but I can’t seem to help myself. But then again, why would I want to? At times I encounter totally unscripted Oscar worthy social interactions. Once I even ordered an additional drink and dessert at a taverna in Crete because I was listening to a very “middle school” style breakup between two 40-year-old Brits. Oh how I love moments like this, when free entertainment presents itself, offering us a glimpse into a world that is not our own. Truth be told, sometimes you will stumble across a dud, and the conversation is anything but interesting… and you just want to punch the morons in the throat for invading your eardrums with their intellectually-stunted verbal waste. But usually it is comedic relief and you get to hear who is mad at whom, why someone’s boss/job sucks, what is being blown out of proportion, and who is completely uninteresting. Though I have to say my favorite find is when you hear someone justifying their bad behavior… the road of excuses usually leads somewhere amusing. Overall, you get a pulse for the mentality of people who are for all intents and purposes complete strangers. I call this third-hand gossip and equate it to television. Sometimes I’ll pretend I am plugging away at an Excel spreadsheet or something else seemingly important, when really I am digesting every last word of these conversations and plotting ways to exploit the findings of my voyeurism. Once I even felt compelled to type out a particularly over-the-top conversation like a court reporter- that’s how ridiculous it was. (Hmm… I may have to share this in a future blog someday. Food for thought.)</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: large;"><br />Recently, while practicing the art of eavesdropping in a Washington D.C. sushi restaurant, my attention was diverted from my tempura roll and lychee martini. I found myself listening in on a conversation that was a different kind of curiosity piquing. The two gentlemen sitting at the bar next to me were going through a large stack of index cards. On this occasion, I was shamelessly watching them, not even pretending to fiddle with my phone or bothering to use some other cover. This clearly being the case, they indulged me and put my inquisitiveness to rest. They explained that one of them was studying for his citizenship test. There would only be 10 questions asked, but they could come from any of the 100 questions referenced on these index cards. As I happened to be in earshot, I followed along to see how many of the questions I was able to answer. I’m slightly embarrassed to say I would fall into the 83rd percentile (not very impressive for someone born and raised in the good ole US of A). I said a quick thank you prayer that my citizenship was established long before my birth by my grandparents in the 60’s, and that the responsibility wasn’t on me in the year 2013. If I was saddled with this duty, apparently there is a 17% chance my ass would be deported back to the motherland. This would complicate things for Riley and I for sure. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: large;">A few days later, I thought it would be entertaining to revisit the questions when I hadn’t just flown across the country and consumed multiple martinis. My score improved this time, but not significantly. I would skate by with an A-, the odds would be in my favor, but no guarantees. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: large;">I am comforted by the fact that I have been assured that whether or not I receive a passing grade as a US citizen, my ultimate citizenship is in heaven (<i>For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ - Philippians 3:20</i>). But lets be honest… I’m probably not an ideal citizen in either realm. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: large;">Here are the tests questions, let’s see how well you do (keep in mind, I didn't have the answers in front of me)!! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing
{mso-style-priority:1;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
/* List Definitions */
@list l0
{mso-list-id:194315286;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:2012791444 67698703 -400367014 67698715 67698703 67698713 67698715 67698703 67698713 67698715;}
@list l0:level1
{mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level2
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Symbol;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
@list l0:level3
{mso-level-number-format:roman-lower;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:right;
text-indent:-9.0pt;}
@list l0:level4
{mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level5
{mso-level-number-format:alpha-lower;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level6
{mso-level-number-format:roman-lower;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:right;
text-indent:-9.0pt;}
@list l0:level7
{mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level8
{mso-level-number-format:alpha-lower;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level9
{mso-level-number-format:roman-lower;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:right;
text-indent:-9.0pt;}
ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}
ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}
</style></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">AMERICAN GOVERNMENT</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">A: Principles of American Democracy</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the supreme law of the land? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the Constitution </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What does the Constitution do? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">sets up the government </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">defines the government </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">protects basic rights of Americans </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are these words? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">We the People </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is an amendment? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">a change (to the Constitution) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">an addition (to the Constitution) </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the Bill of Rights </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">speech </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">religion </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">assembly </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">press </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">petition the government </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">How many amendments does the Constitution have? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">twenty-seven (27) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What did the Declaration of Independence do? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">announced our independence (from Great Britain) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">declared our independence (from Great Britain) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">said that the United States is free (from Great Britain) </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">life </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">liberty </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">pursuit of happiness </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is freedom of religion? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">you can practice any religion, or not practice a religion. </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">11.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the economic system in the United States? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">capitalist economy </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">market economy </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">12.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the “rule of law”? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Everyone must follow the law. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Leaders must obey the law. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Government must obey the law. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">No one is above the law. </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">B: System of Government</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">13.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one branch or part of the government. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Congress </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">legislative </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">President </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">executive </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the courts </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">judicial </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">14.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">checks and balances </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">separation of powers </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">15.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who is in charge of the executive branch? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the President </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">16.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who makes federal laws? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Congress </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Senate and House (of Representatives) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(U.S. or national) legislature </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>17</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the Senate and House (of Representatives) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">18.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">How many U.S. Senators are there? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">one hundred (100) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">19.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">We elect a U.S. Senator for how many years? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">six (6) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">20.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who is one of your state’s U.S. Senators now? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Answers will vary. [District of Columbia residents and residents of U.S. territories should answer that D.C. (or the territory where the applicant lives) has no U.S. Senators.] </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">21.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The House of Representatives has how many voting members? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">four hundred thirty-five (435) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">22.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">We elect a U.S. Representative for how many years? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">two (2) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">23.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name your U.S. Representative. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Answers will vary. [Residents of territories with nonvoting Delegates or Resident Commissioners may provide the name of that Delegate or Commissioner. Also acceptable is any statement that the territory has no (voting) Representatives in Congress.] </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">24.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who does a U.S. Senator represent? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">all people of the state </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">25.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Why do some states have more Representatives than other states? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(because of) the state’s population </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(because) they have more people </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(because) some states have more people </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">26.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">We elect a President for how many years? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">four (4) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">27.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">In what month do we vote for President? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">November </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">28.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the name of the President of the United States now? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Barack Obama </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Obama </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>29</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the name of the Vice President of the United States now?</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Joseph R. Biden, Jr. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Joe Biden </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Biden </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">30.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">If the President can no longer serve, who becomes President? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the Vice President </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">31.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">If both the President and the Vice President can no longer serve, who becomes President? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the Speaker of the House </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">32.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who is the Commander in Chief of the military? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the President </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">33.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who signs bills to become laws? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the President </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>34</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who vetoes bills</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the President </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">35.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What does the President’s Cabinet do? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">advises the President </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">36.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What are two Cabinet-level positions? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Agriculture </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Commerce </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Defense </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Education </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Energy </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Health and Human Services </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Homeland Security </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Housing and Urban Development </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of the Interior </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Labor </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of State </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Transportation </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of the Treasury </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Secretary of Veterans Affairs </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Attorney General </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Vice President </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">37.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What does the judicial branch do? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">reviews laws </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">explains laws </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">resolves disputes (disagreements) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">decides if a law goes against the Constitution </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">38.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the highest court in the United States? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the Supreme Court </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">39.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">How many justices are on the Supreme Court? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">nine (9) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">40.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who is the Chief Justice of the United States now? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">John Roberts (John G. Roberts, Jr.) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>41</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the federal government. What is one power of the federal government?</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">to print money </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">to declare war </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">to create an army </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">to make treaties </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>42</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states. What is one power of the states?</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">provide schooling and education </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">provide protection (police) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">provide safety (fire departments) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">give a driver’s license </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">approve zoning and land use </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">43.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who is the Governor of your state now? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Answers will vary. [District of Columbia residents should answer that D.C. does not have a Governor.] </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">44.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the capital of your state?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Answers will vary. [District of Columbia residents should answer that D.C. is not a state and does not have a capital. Residents of U.S. territories should name the capital of the territory.] </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">45.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What are the two major political parties in the United States?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Democratic and Republican </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">46.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the political party of the President now? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Democratic (Party) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">47.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(John) Boehner </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">C: Rights and Responsibilities</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>48</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote. Describe one of them.</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Citizens eighteen (18) and older (can vote). </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">You don’t have to pay (a poll tax) to vote. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Any citizen can vote. (Women and men can vote.) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">A male citizen of any race (can vote). </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">49.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is one responsibility that is only for United States citizens?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">serve on a jury </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">vote in a federal election </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">50.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one right only for United States citizens. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">vote in a federal election </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">run for federal office </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">51.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What are two rights of everyone living in the United States? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freedom of expression </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freedom of speech </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freedom of assembly </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freedom to petition the government </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freedom of worship </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the right to bear arms </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">52.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the United States </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the flag </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">53.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is one promise you make when you become a United States citizen? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">give up loyalty to other countries </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">defend the Constitution and laws of the United States </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">obey the laws of the United States </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">serve in the U.S. military (if needed) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">serve (do important work for) the nation (if needed) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">be loyal to the United States </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">54.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">How old do citizens have to be to vote for President? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">eighteen (18) and older </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>55</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">vote </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">join a political party </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">help with a campaign </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">join a civic group </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">join a community group </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">give an elected official your opinion on an issue </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">call Senators and Representatives </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">publicly support or oppose an issue or policy </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">run for office </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">write to a newspaper </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">56.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">When is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">April 15 </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">57.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">When must all men register for the Selective Service? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">at age eighteen (18) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">between eighteen (18) and twenty-six (26) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">AMERICAN HISTORY </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">A: Colonial Period and Independence</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">58.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is one reason colonists came to America? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freedom </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">political liberty </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">religious freedom </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">economic opportunity </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">practice their religion </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">escape persecution </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">59.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">American Indians </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Native Americans </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">60.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What group of people was taken to America and sold as slaves? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Africans </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">people from Africa </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">61.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Why did the colonists fight the British? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">because of high taxes (taxation without representation) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">because the British army stayed in their houses (boarding, quartering) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">because they didn’t have self-government </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">62.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who wrote the Declaration of Independence? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(Thomas) Jefferson </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">63.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">When was the Declaration of Independence adopted? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">July 4, 1776 </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">64.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">There were 13 original states. Name three. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New Hampshire </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Massachusetts </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Rhode Island </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Connecticut </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New York </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New Jersey </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Pennsylvania </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Delaware </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Maryland </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Virginia </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">North Carolina </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">South Carolina </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Georgia </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">65.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What happened at the Constitutional Convention? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The Constitution was written. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The Founding Fathers wrote the Constitution. </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">66.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">When was the Constitution written? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">1787 </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">67.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one of the writers. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(James) Madison </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(Alexander) Hamilton </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(John) Jay </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Publius </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">68.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is one thing Benjamin Franklin is famous for? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">U.S. diplomat </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">oldest member of the Constitutional Convention </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">first Postmaster General of the United States </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">writer of “Poor Richard’s Almanac” </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">started the first free libraries </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">69.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who is the “Father of Our Country”? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(George) Washington </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">70.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who was the first President? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(George) Washington </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">B: 1800s</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">71.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What territory did the United States buy from France in 1803?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the Louisiana Territory </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Louisiana</span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">72.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one war fought by the United States in the 1800s. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">War of 1812 </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Mexican-American War </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Civil War </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Spanish-American War </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">73.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name the U.S. war between the North and the South. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the Civil War </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">the War between the States </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">74.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one problem that led to the Civil War. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">slavery </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">economic reasons </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">states’rights </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">75.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What was one important thing that Abraham Lincoln did? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freed the slaves (Emancipation Proclamation) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">saved (or preserved) the Union </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">led the United States during the Civil War </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>76</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freed the slaves </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freed slaves in the Confederacy </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freed slaves in the Confederate states </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">freed slaves in most Southern states </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">77.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What did Susan B. Anthony do? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">fought for women’s rights </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">fought for civil rights </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">C: Recent American History and Other Important Historical Information</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">78.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s.</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">World War I </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">World War II </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Korean War </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Vietnam War </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(Persian) Gulf War </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">79.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who was President during World War I? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(Woodrow) Wilson </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">80.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who was President during the Great Depression and World War II? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">(Franklin) Roosevelt </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">81.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who did the United States fight in World War II? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Japan, Germany, and Italy </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">82.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Before he was President, Eisenhower was a general. What war was he in? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">World War II </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">83.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">During the Cold War, what was the main concern of the United States? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Communism </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">84.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What movement tried to end racial discrimination? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">civil rights (movement) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>85</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What did Martin Luther King, Jr. do?</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">fought for civil rights </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">worked for equality for all Americans </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">86.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What major event happened on September 11, 2001, in the United States? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Terrorists attacked the United States. </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">87.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one American Indian tribe in the United States. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">[USCIS Officers will be supplied with a list of federally recognized American Indian tribes.] </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cherokee </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Navajo </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Sioux </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Chippewa </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Choctaw </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Pueblo </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Apache</span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Iroquois </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Creek </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Blackfeet </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Seminole </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cheyenne </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Arawak</span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Shawnee </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Mohegan </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Huron </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Oneida</span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Lakota </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Crow </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Teton </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Hopi</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Inuit</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">INTEGRATED CIVICS</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">A: Geography</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">88.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one of the two longest rivers in the United States. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Missouri (River) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Mississippi (River) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">89.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What ocean is on the West Coast of the United States? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Pacific (Ocean) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">90.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What ocean is on the East Coast of the United States? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Atlantic (Ocean) </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">91.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one U.S. territory. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Puerto Rico </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">U.S. Virgin Islands </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">American Samoa </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Northern Mariana Islands </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Guam </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><b>92</b>.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one state that borders Canada.</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Maine </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New Hampshire </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Vermont </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New York </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Pennsylvania </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Ohio </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Michigan </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Minnesota </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">North Dakota </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Montana </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Idaho </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Washington </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Alaska </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">93.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Name one state that borders Mexico. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">California </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Arizona </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New Mexico </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Texas </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">94.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the capital of the United States? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Washington, D.C. </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">95.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Where is the Statue of Liberty? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New York (Harbor) </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Liberty Island [Also acceptable are New Jersey, near New York City, and on the Hudson (River).] </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">B: Symbols</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">96.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Why does the flag have 13 stripes? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">because there were 13 original colonies </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">because the stripes represent the original colonies </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">97.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Why does the flag have 50 stars? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">because there is one star for each state </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">because each star represents a state </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">because there are 50 states </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">98.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is the name of the national anthem?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The Star-Spangled Banner </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">C: Holidays</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">99.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">When do we celebrate Independence Day? </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪</span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> July 4 </span></i><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> </span></span></b></span></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">100.</span></span></b></span> Name two national U.S. holidays. </span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New Year’s Day </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Martin Luther King, Jr. Day </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Presidents’Day </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Memorial Day </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Independence Day </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Labor Day </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Columbus Day </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Veterans Day </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Thanksgiving </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">▪ </span><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Christmas </span></i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-61827574355240117172013-04-11T18:28:00.000-07:002013-09-25T09:36:59.810-07:00Sin Much?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If there is one thing I succeed at in life, it is in being a "sinner." I have mastered the art of being a rather crappy person quite remarkably over the years. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Competency in this area may come naturally to many, but I have taken it to new heights- having raised the ceiling of possibility to an entirely unimaginable level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not stating this with any shred of pride or flippancy, but rather matter-of-factly, in a simple desire to speak plainly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, let’s be real. The idea of being the chief of sinners is not lost on me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As another Easter has come and gone, my full-time status as a career sinner invokes in me the need to avoid taking this time of year lightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Contrary to popular belief, I value this season for reasons beyond just the Good Friday communion experience where I can consume wine and crackers and somehow chalk it up to a holy encounter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rather, this time is meaningful to me because more than most, I know the degree to which I am completely jacked up, and oh-so desperately in need of a something or someone to redeem this pitiful life I lead. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That said, I find the 6 weeks of Lent leading up to Easter to be moderately interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Particularly, the things some people choose to give up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You always hear the same old same old, “I’m giving up chocolate”, “I’m giving up a fill-in-the-blank brand of beer”, “I’m giving up Facebook”, etc. The list of trivial less-than-consequential things people “give up” goes on and on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My response is usually to chuckle when I hear the more-than-manageable things people typically choose to “sacrifice” for Lent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me, if I gave up television or candy, that’s not a big deal. Now, if I gave up wine or carbs, one might think I was actually the one in the wilderness for 40 days being tempted by the devil, or the one carrying the cross up Via Dolorosa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suppose then that before I get all judgey and under-impressed with those who choose to give up something frivolous- like wearing heels or scratching their ass for six weeks- I have to ask myself, what is the point?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is intended to be accomplished during the Lenten season of spiritual fasting?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is it to merely participate in a tradition that represents the season between winter and summer (the word “lent” simply means “spring”), or the idea of self-denial, abstaining, and identifying with the social implications of Jesus’ sacrifice?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is it a time to step back, refocus, take stock, and spend the time in self-reflection, meditation, soul-searching, and repentance?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps for some it is merely the necessary amount of time required to recover from Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday, or Carnival celebrations and the ensuing hangovers and required rounds of penicillin treatments.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Depending on how one answers the above question, this may help define the appropriate item to give up for Lent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For instance, if the answer is tradition, I’d like to give up annoying people, exercise, and bras.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the answer is self-denial, then perhaps I should give up non-work related internet use, Nordstrom, and cheese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, if I really wanted a reprieve from the things that stand in the way of me living the most meaningful life and that would reaffirm my commitment to my faith, then perhaps I should simply give up being a self-indulgent bitch for 40 days?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Let’s be honest, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> probably won’t ever happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wouldn’t make it from Ash Wednesday to the following Sunday, much less through an entire page of the calendar to Holy Week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if I could manage 6 weeks of not being so crappy, would that somehow atone for being a self-serving schmoe for the other 46 weeks in the year? Does that make Lent the spiritual equivalent of a timeout?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now now, give me some credit, just because I attend far more happy hours than church services throughout the year, it doesn’t mean my theology is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that </i>backasswards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will gladly speak up and confirm that I am very much a fallen person and in desperate need of a generous serving of grace.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Grace is an interesting thing. Recently, I was sitting in traffic, mulling over a particular situation where someone had defrauded me, and was getting ahead at my expense and by less-than-honorable means. As I did so, I found myself growing more indignant and demanding justice with each passing second (picture me shaking my clenched fist towards the heavens).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suddenly, I felt an all too familiar thump on the walls of my heart and mind, and the voice of wisdom began prodding me with the question, “Really, Rachelle?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you someone who really should be demanding justice?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It stopped my thoughts dead in their tracks as I chewed on the idea of why I felt I deserved <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">justice</i> in this situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The error of my thinking hit me like a freight train- would I want to have justice served for the things <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> have done wrong in my life, the times when I have been the offender, or the one to not play fair or to gain an advantage at the cost of someone else?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even in the moments where a careless action seemed victimless, would I really want justice? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But that is the thing about justice, we always want it for ourselves when we have been wronged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rarely do we ever demand justice when we have been the one in the wrong and are skating free from the consequences we in all fairness deserve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When our own ass is in the frying pan, we prefer to be moved to a back burner and simmered in grace, rather than being left to boil far past the point of al dente.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I am a complete failure in 90% of the situations in my life, wouldn’t wisdom suggest that I don’t demand justice, but rather extend grace as much as possible, and only demand justice in selfless situations, on behalf of those who can’t defend themselves?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maybe next year I will have the self-discipline to give up being a complete and total assface for Lent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But in the mean-time, I think I will choose to apply my energy towards pleading for social justice on behalf of those who don’t have a voice and are overlooked by the masses, and imparting grace to those who have wronged me. And if the distractions of annoying people on the internet, shopping at Nordstrom, scratching my ass, or eating cheese derails my good intentions -that’s ok.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I already know my only hope is grace over justice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And since I never have a shortage of wine and crackers around, I can always have my own impromptu communion experience to be reminded all through the year of where this is found.</div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-63005799097009034282013-03-24T14:38:00.001-07:002013-06-18T08:42:00.258-07:00Grounded<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Normally what comes to my mind when I hear the word “grounded” is a flood of memories from my years as a teenager, as I happened to have spent the majority of my 11 – 17 era being just that, “grounded.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t so much that I was unruly, but rather because “grounded” was apparently the only word in English my dad knew when I ticked him off, and the only way in which my mom could guarantee free child care for my youngest brother, Nick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While the word will always send a shiver down my spine when I think about it in the context of my early youth and my overly critical parents’ exasperation with their headstrong daughter, the word has evolved for me as an adult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Grounding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What tethers us to reality, and guarantees that we will return to earth when we find ourselves circling in orbit somewhere because life has spun us off the grid? </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I think the majority of the population prefers to display a reasonable amount of social poise, and in the event a circumstance takes an unforeseen nosedive south, they possess an innate instinct to “save face” (of course there are always exceptions, just look at reality TV).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But there comes a time for all of us, when we reach our “boiling point” and lose our resolve to give a flying $@#!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure there is a scientific equation that can be plotted out on a linear graph or a vapor pressure chart that would show us the exact temperature and pressure combinations where our emotional resolve can no longer withstand the environmental elements and our mental discipline/sanity vaporizes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can think of a few recent situations where this is where I found myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A few months ago I was returning to the United States and grabbed something to eat in the London airport a couple hours prior to my flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the plane was taking off I knew something was wrong and I was going to get sick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yep! I had serious food poisoning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My initial trips to the lavatory were discreet and rather ladylike, which should solicit major kudos in its own right considering the beads of sweat dripping down my forehead, the look of terror across my face, and my ability to simultaneous flex my ass muscles and swallow my own vomit, all the while waiting in line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But after several hours of the food-demon’s tyranny, somewhere between London and Seattle, I lost my “give a $!#@” and no longer had the social grace to protect my ego or shelter the innocent passengers around me from my plight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I quickly went from the quiet girl with the groomed curls in the maxi dress, to the disheveled girl with the crooked bun, puke spattered dress, and who spent 20 minutes at a time curled up in a ball on the lavatory floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No horrified stares from onlookers or desire not to be a spectacle could affect me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was just too sick to care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Another situation that comes to mind is last summer when I had the unfortunate task of packing up the house I’d lived in for several years and getting it prepped for a renter <span style="font-size: large;">who</span> was scheduled to move in the following week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since all my earthly possessions were going into storage, it was important that things were actually inventoried, packed, and labeled carefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, this is when my OCD can make me a danger to others and myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were many reasons that I found myself completely alone with this daunting task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure some of those reasons contributed to my weakened psyche (cough, cough… flaky fickle family members).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regardless, one evening, after a few sleepless nights and too many days of fast food, the realization that I had not made nearly enough progress was undeniable… and I snapped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ended up sprawled out half naked on the floor of my walk-in closet sobbing uncontrollably. Hear me, this was not a “dainty girl cry with a delicate glistening tear caressing my cheek as it fell” moment, but rather an ugly, snotty, mascara running cry that could cause the average passerby to call the wildlife authorities because they were positive a loose walrus was in distress and/or ravaging a herd of wild goats… In hindsight I would have benefitted from the tranquilizer dart the rescuers would have needed to take down a 2000 pound walrus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suffice it to say, I had reached my boiling point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember waving my white flag, dragging my fatigued body across the floor to my cell phone (with a pit stop at the shoe rack that was holding my glass of wine, of course), and calling my friend Danielle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who immediately stopped her life without hesitation, then saved my ass and took over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had it not been for Danielle, I am pretty sure I would still be on my closet floor… I was just too overwhelmed to move.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh, little moments like these… </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">As potent as these situations can be, I’d say the majority of our “I don’t give a $@!#” moments are brought to us by an <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">emotional</i> factor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can think of several times in my life when the emotional component of a situation has left me paralyzed…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the death of a loved one, the loss of a significant relationship, or having to process major life changes.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Levity & relationships are both important grounding forces in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a gift to have the ability to not take myself or my first world trials and tribulations too seriously. Who knew flippant humor could be so valuable and such a helpful tool for re-centering? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise I feel fortunate to be surrounded by people who love me enough to grab my ankles before I completely float up into space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are times in my life when I have had those seasons where I really did need someone else to remind me of what I know to be true, to remind me of the big picture, and to help my feet not lose their footing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all need to have people in our lives that will love us through our most unreasonable and ugly moments.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 122.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 122.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Despite my reflexive teenage recoiling, being grounded can actually be a good thing.</span></span></div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-10614608451726946372013-02-22T13:18:00.000-08:002013-06-18T08:41:47.224-07:00Barcelona & Girona <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">S</span>pent a few great days in Barcelona and Girona with my girl<span style="font-size: small;">, <span style="font-size: small;">Hannah! H</span></span>ere are a few highlights from our adventure. </span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span> </span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JPsbDDfstqQ/USTqpYjGKQI/AAAAAAAAEps/h9hZcDTyVdY/s1600/IMG_4823.jpg" width="150" /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3zrYYUekmE/USTqxR_FkwI/AAAAAAAAEqI/zWjpiD5_HKA/s1600/IMG_4859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3zrYYUekmE/USTqxR_FkwI/AAAAAAAAEqI/zWjpiD5_HKA/s1600/IMG_4859.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSCaDWMfmps/USTqop2nXiI/AAAAAAAAEpo/Chg2Z-pCnv0/s1600/IMG_4833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSCaDWMfmps/USTqop2nXiI/AAAAAAAAEpo/Chg2Z-pCnv0/s1600/IMG_4833.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0764j6_c_MM/USTqkopBj2I/AAAAAAAAEpg/i5KGFYF_OkU/s1600/IMG_4828.JPG" width="200" /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3zrYYUekmE/USTqxR_FkwI/AAAAAAAAEqI/zWjpiD5_HKA/s1600/IMG_4859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rMTL6W5vwqg/USTqxQgwXiI/AAAAAAAAEqE/Z_OD9j0YS9U/s1600/IMG_4846.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jC9t04QLJ-w/USTrp-T7uqI/AAAAAAAAEsw/FY_qVT2mnnA/s1600/IMG_5005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jC9t04QLJ-w/USTrp-T7uqI/AAAAAAAAEsw/FY_qVT2mnnA/s1600/IMG_5005.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="150" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Even though we almost froze to death, ran out of gas, and came inches from a crash that would have cost us our security deposit... scooters were definitely the best way to see the city. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4rwEWyBOXqE/USTqx0wZnaI/AAAAAAAAEqM/SPlG4ruEGuc/s1600/IMG_4862.JPG" width="200" /> <img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5PSgeoiMOA/USTq8POVaEI/AAAAAAAAEqs/0DhKNC218Ko/s1600/IMG_4890.JPG" width="200" /> <img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--T3oeTa0YDk/USTqs2AiXvI/AAAAAAAAEp4/es4GMki4o74/s1600/IMG_4836.JPG" width="200" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHqSADh51EU/USTq7sq4rtI/AAAAAAAAEqg/3kPecp3MP5M/s1600/IMG_4887.JPG" width="200" /> <img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4kRV8-fspFA/USTq79znXlI/AAAAAAAAEqo/q7OQBRO-2gY/s1600/IMG_4885.JPG" width="200" /> <img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LvZmiVzMv_s/USTrxjxnlmI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/Ek6uEmzSd8M/s1600/IMG_5068.JPG" width="200" /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Güell, situated on hill of El Carmel in the Gràcia district was one of my favorite places to visit. Not only was the architecture and design fascinating, but the view all the way to ocean was breathtaking. We arrived as the sun was starting to set. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4sbrgMHF2g/USTrGd6k6sI/AAAAAAAAErA/hdN5Y1HI4ik/s1600/IMG_4903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4sbrgMHF2g/USTrGd6k6sI/AAAAAAAAErA/hdN5Y1HI4ik/s320/IMG_4903.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5xU14409boE/USTrHctU0cI/AAAAAAAAErI/d8aUPYjVJd0/s1600/IMG_4904.jpg" width="150" /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CdakwG2A8SE/USTrL7UHKlI/AAAAAAAAErQ/wdSzgHTC44A/s1600/IMG_4920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CdakwG2A8SE/USTrL7UHKlI/AAAAAAAAErQ/wdSzgHTC44A/s1600/IMG_4920.JPG" width="200" /></a><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhizHC7OxjI/USTrCyKTpZI/AAAAAAAAEq4/BGkROg94nbM/s1600/IMG_4899.JPG" width="200" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysp0UbnNEoo/USTrQM9pOxI/AAAAAAAAErY/0eohjVMkruQ/s1600/IMG_4939.JPG" width="200" /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1liQIxRTpSU/USTrRTiGl-I/AAAAAAAAErg/mcqv-l0RLu4/s1600/IMG_4942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1liQIxRTpSU/USTrRTiGl-I/AAAAAAAAErg/mcqv-l0RLu4/s1600/IMG_4942.JPG" width="200" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">We definitely ha<span style="font-size: small;">d tons of fun people watching<span style="font-size: small;"> along Las Ramblas</span></span></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bfXz7J4u08A/USTrTmQRPfI/AAAAAAAAEro/JLny2pK64G8/s1600/IMG_4948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bfXz7J4u08A/USTrTmQRPfI/AAAAAAAAEro/JLny2pK64G8/s1600/IMG_4948.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FvACDFj7etc/USTrbbcq4zI/AAAAAAAAEsE/UmcypvDXYX0/s1600/IMG_4950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FvACDFj7etc/USTrbbcq4zI/AAAAAAAAEsE/UmcypvDXYX0/s1600/IMG_4950.JPG" width="200" /> </a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sEQVGfiHc2w/USTrq4N4IaI/AAAAAAAAEtA/r9ypDWnQOLk/s1600/IMG_5012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sEQVGfiHc2w/USTrq4N4IaI/AAAAAAAAEtA/r9ypDWnQOLk/s1600/IMG_5012.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beautiful beaches, sunshine, and food! </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-al7_vr-UzGY/USTrirA6WUI/AAAAAAAAEsc/ISr92W1op3A/s1600/IMG_4985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-al7_vr-UzGY/USTrirA6WUI/AAAAAAAAEsc/ISr92W1op3A/s1600/IMG_4985.JPG" width="200" /></a><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U9UJ3wJZUM4/USTrbIkle2I/AAAAAAAAEr8/-qg-kxnW9l0/s1600/IMG_4973.JPG" width="200" /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Xrdq7o7Myo/USTreB_Ls2I/AAAAAAAAEsM/AfSkIp78TnI/s1600/IMG_4974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Xrdq7o7Myo/USTreB_Ls2I/AAAAAAAAEsM/AfSkIp78TnI/s1600/IMG_4974.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qXR-ScpHhkQ/USTrxdVlc-I/AAAAAAAAEtY/Z5dEzB0S7SA/s1600/IMG_5086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qXR-ScpHhkQ/USTrxdVlc-I/AAAAAAAAEtY/Z5dEzB0S7SA/s1600/IMG_5086.JPG" width="200" /></a><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kO8crA1niqA/USTrktOPcxI/AAAAAAAAEsk/n1IbpgrKpc0/s1600/IMG_5003.JPG" width="200" /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QmsN4HO3bJA/USTrh6LF7nI/AAAAAAAAEsU/OXrtr0KNMRI/s1600/IMG_5001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QmsN4HO3bJA/USTrh6LF7nI/AAAAAAAAEsU/OXrtr0KNMRI/s1600/IMG_5001.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Walking the old fortress wall in Girona was definitely worth the trouble of taking the Ryan Air flight out of Girona instead of Barcelona proper. This town is charming and really interesting and worth taking the time to explore.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SXY6gBXQU4U/USTr15uNLbI/AAAAAAAAEtk/mlf-VhE2UvU/s1600/IMG_5096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SXY6gBXQU4U/USTr15uNLbI/AAAAAAAAEtk/mlf-VhE2UvU/s1600/IMG_5096.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vwuBN3GNu4M/USTr6TqOCWI/AAAAAAAAEtw/mi-pl2jsQo0/s1600/IMG_5103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vwuBN3GNu4M/USTr6TqOCWI/AAAAAAAAEtw/mi-pl2jsQo0/s1600/IMG_5103.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4Al9ZGt2v8/USTsDfVZFhI/AAAAAAAAEuU/1q1p-ezEqxY/s1600/IMG_5116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4Al9ZGt2v8/USTsDfVZFhI/AAAAAAAAEuU/1q1p-ezEqxY/s1600/IMG_5116.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zhw2Jn7TDcA/USTr7d-7KBI/AAAAAAAAEt8/ODk3BJgpZGs/s1600/IMG_5110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zhw2Jn7TDcA/USTr7d-7KBI/AAAAAAAAEt8/ODk3BJgpZGs/s1600/IMG_5110.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ulMyy9RD3t0/USTr6igFd-I/AAAAAAAAEt4/fgmUYaZ0YPs/s1600/IMG_5104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ulMyy9RD3t0/USTr6igFd-I/AAAAAAAAEt4/fgmUYaZ0YPs/s1600/IMG_5104.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-HYs6UpZJI/USTr_eI0KpI/AAAAAAAAEuI/7LAXfSSYf4M/s1600/IMG_5112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-HYs6UpZJI/USTr_eI0KpI/AAAAAAAAEuI/7LAXfSSYf4M/s1600/IMG_5112.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
</div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-B3zrYYUekmE%2FUSTqxR_FkwI%2FAAAAAAAAEqI%2FzWjpiD5_HKA%2Fs1600%2FIMG_4859.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3zrYYUekmE/USTqxR_FkwI/AAAAAAAAEqI/zWjpiD5_HKA/s1600/IMG_4859.JPG" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QmsN4HO3bJA%2FUSTrh6LF7nI%2FAAAAAAAAEsU%2FOXrtr0KNMRI%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5001.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QmsN4HO3bJA/USTrh6LF7nI/AAAAAAAAEsU/OXrtr0KNMRI/s1600/IMG_5001.JPG" -->Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-5976717137406880212013-01-12T01:20:00.001-08:002013-06-18T08:41:13.202-07:00The Faithfulness of a Friend - The Story of a Dooooog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS Minngs";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"MS Mincho";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:11.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">There are dog people and then there is everyone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, if you are not a dog person, you might as well stop reading right now because I will probably sound like a lunatic (perhaps you should go shop Amazon for a soul instead).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Growing up, my family had a golden retriever named Paws, who lived to be 17 years old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Paws literally saw my brothers and I through our entire childhood. In fact, we believe he didn’t let go of life until we were grown and he knew his job was done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, there are two more golden retrievers in our family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Legolas, who goes by Lego to close friends and family, who is 11 years old and belongs to my brother, Nathan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then there is my boy, Riley, who is 9-years old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">After Nathan graduated from college, he and Lego made the thousand or so mile move from the rainy Pacific Northwest to the land of fake tans, Pinkberry, smog, beaches, and eating disorders (also known as Los Angeles).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lego adjusted nicely to life in So Cal and is somewhat of a local celebrity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He goes everywhere with my brother, and is therefore known at restaurants, stores, gyms, local businesses, and all the studios my brother frequents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lego goes to work with my brother and is happy to take in sprawling Los Angeles with his head out the backseat window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of his many endearing qualities is that he walks by your side, not ever needing a leash, but always with a ball or his favorite stuffed duck in his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lego never leaves home without one of these precious toys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever I visit, and take Lego with me on errands or for a walk, people actually run up to him, get on their knees and greet him by name, then raise an eyebrow at me and muster-up a pleasant, “Who the hell are you and what are you doing with Nate’s dog?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lego will extend a paw to shake with these fans, and then slump at their feet demanding that their adoration take the form of a belly rub. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ug0xcsLXqns/UPEqZFcB63I/AAAAAAAAEoI/qGCRjqEHhj0/s1600/IMG_4017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ug0xcsLXqns/UPEqZFcB63I/AAAAAAAAEoI/qGCRjqEHhj0/s1600/IMG_4017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Lego has an amazing personality; he is a human heart & soul trapped in a furry body with four legs and a tail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Were you to ask my brother, without a doubt he would tell you that Lego is his best friend, and has been his constant companion through the good times and the bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise, it would take you all of five minutes to realize that for Lego as well, the sun rises and sets by my brother… it is unconditional love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Recently however, Lego has suffered from seizures, caused by a brain tumor, that we didn’t know existed until just a couple months ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve achingly watched my brother tenderly care for Lego, and help him with memory problems, bladder problems, and learning the basics all over again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had so many little inside secrets, habits, and tricks between the two of them that Lego has slowly tried to relearn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While medicine works for a time, sadly the seizures have become cyclical and he will be better for a bit, only for the cycle to repeat itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The brain tumor isn’t going away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nathan knows at some point in the not-so-distant future, the symptoms and discomfort will no longer be able to be masked by medicine, and that he will have to make a painful decision. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">When you pick out a puppy for the first time, and that precious face melts your heart, and their unique personality enraptures you, you can’t fathom the idea that at some point in your future, and definitely before you are ready, you will have to say goodbye- and that your heart will break in a way you never thought possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It takes a tremendous amount of courage to love, when you know you will lose.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Doing right by them…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dogs selflessly love us, in a way that defies human ability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They never judge our bad behavior or think the worst about us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The times when my heart was so heavy that I couldn’t get out of bed, Riley never left my side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The playful times at the park, my running companion, swimming at the beach, road trips, and literally traveling the world, playing so many games and fetch, cuddling and naps, or all the times when he is content to just be with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even when I’m ugly, fat, wearing bad clothes, and have zits on my face, that dog has never once been anything but ecstatic to see me, the excitement that sweeps through his body like a hurricane at the moment I acknowledge him, or the panic and depression that hits him the moment he sees a suitcase or thinks he’s being left behind… it puts you in touch with the depths of your own humanity.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">This is why it is so hard to know when to say goodbye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But because they have always selflessly loved you, they deserve to be selflessly loved back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know how I’ll do this when Riley's twilight knocks on my door- so what advice could I ever offer my brother?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess, when that moment comes, I will cuddle that precious pup in my lap, stroke his sweet grey face, and tell him, “For all the times you protected me, for all the times you comforted me, for all the times you were aware of my need, for all the times you were courageous for me, for all the times you didn’t consider your own well being, but mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will make this choice. And I will see this as my moment to love you, in the same way you have always loved me… Selflessly.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PQQL5Ps3NNs/UPEotkloVaI/AAAAAAAAEmw/mxhhaMiKQe0/s1600/P1020303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PQQL5Ps3NNs/UPEotkloVaI/AAAAAAAAEmw/mxhhaMiKQe0/s1600/P1020303.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Lego, you are my first and very favorite nephew!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-10104381041549915662013-01-11T23:33:00.000-08:002013-06-18T08:41:03.025-07:00Christmas Market Adventures - Germany & France<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
If you are ever afforded the opportunity to visit Germany during the Christmas season, you are fortunate! I have always wanted to experience the Christmas markets and villages in Germany, and I was able to do so this past December. It was completely magical and an amazing time!! Here are some pictures of a few different towns we visited.<br />
<br />
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Cologne</span></span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Cologne is located on the Rhine and has 6 different markets, the largest being the <span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Kölner Dom.</span></span><style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7jcK1l7JbJ0/UPERHonlMcI/AAAAAAAAETM/KVvQJX6wAoM/s1600/IMG_5150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7jcK1l7JbJ0/UPERHonlMcI/AAAAAAAAETM/KVvQJX6wAoM/s1600/IMG_5150.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H3SigLEtHmU/UPERH2EHZeI/AAAAAAAAETQ/zEU2xZHhS18/s1600/IMG_5175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H3SigLEtHmU/UPERH2EHZeI/AAAAAAAAETQ/zEU2xZHhS18/s1600/IMG_5175.jpg" width="150" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The market is located in front of the impressive backdrop of Cologne's landmark, the Cathedral</span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0_pbq7nYbo/UPER55OUdzI/AAAAAAAAEUs/vh5PFe9LB2I/s1600/IMG_5185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0_pbq7nYbo/UPER55OUdzI/AAAAAAAAEUs/vh5PFe9LB2I/s1600/IMG_5185.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dkRurAaeVSQ/UPERHywq86I/AAAAAAAAETU/udSRrarNA08/s1600/IMG_5173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dkRurAaeVSQ/UPERHywq86I/AAAAAAAAETU/udSRrarNA08/s1600/IMG_5173.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> There was an amazing choir that performed on this twinkling stage.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2iYMdcoOJwM/UPERLjp5VNI/AAAAAAAAET4/s12cAtQh3uQ/s1600/IMG_5184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2iYMdcoOJwM/UPERLjp5VNI/AAAAAAAAET4/s12cAtQh3uQ/s1600/IMG_5184.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f6ukZA6NrmY/UPERKf1m58I/AAAAAAAAETo/6YDoVCGVZpM/s1600/IMG_5183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f6ukZA6NrmY/UPERKf1m58I/AAAAAAAAETo/6YDoVCGVZpM/s1600/IMG_5183.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">These potato cakes and applesauce became one of my favorite snacks.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vqg_KqwNVwI/UPEWe7My7FI/AAAAAAAAEWI/GtTEHeZLVEE/s1600/IMG_5194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vqg_KqwNVwI/UPEWe7My7FI/AAAAAAAAEWI/GtTEHeZLVEE/s1600/IMG_5194.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sNKWqk0sOw/UPEWdNsPboI/AAAAAAAAEV8/WDEW54IsaHw/s1600/IMG_5192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sNKWqk0sOw/UPEWdNsPboI/AAAAAAAAEV8/WDEW54IsaHw/s1600/IMG_5192.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Düsseldorf </span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><style><!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Düsseldorf's Christmas Market<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">was <span style="font-size: small;">nice too</span> and <span style="font-size: small;">not to far from Cologne. There is also <span style="font-size: small;">to<span style="font-size: small;">ns of pubs and <span style="font-size: small;">restaurants</span> <span style="font-size: small;">in this area a<span style="font-size: small;">s well.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dg3WzfAom5k/UPEZI9lCxNI/AAAAAAAAEXs/FVOmsnehB_0/s1600/IMG_5140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dg3WzfAom5k/UPEZI9lCxNI/AAAAAAAAEXs/FVOmsnehB_0/s1600/IMG_5140.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0UltpdcDYrQ/UPEZaWlsssI/AAAAAAAAEYI/KSn8vXh8dNE/s1600/IMG_5201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0UltpdcDYrQ/UPEZaWlsssI/AAAAAAAAEYI/KSn8vXh8dNE/s1600/IMG_5201.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cochem</span></span></b></span><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Reichsburg Cochem/Castle </span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZBJiutuXqQ/UPEa5IpOeDI/AAAAAAAAEZk/2TtMRE9yX24/s1600/IMG_5221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZBJiutuXqQ/UPEa5IpOeDI/AAAAAAAAEZk/2TtMRE9yX24/s1600/IMG_5221.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yGDmzggxSkY/UPEa5qXVXhI/AAAAAAAAEZs/RvxDC33tifY/s1600/IMG_5234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yGDmzggxSkY/UPEa5qXVXhI/AAAAAAAAEZs/RvxDC33tifY/s1600/IMG_5234.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EMprd3ijPDw/UPEa5tkzPvI/AAAAAAAAEZw/7ykFXKgfpGY/s1600/IMG_5233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EMprd3ijPDw/UPEa5tkzPvI/AAAAAAAAEZw/7ykFXKgfpGY/s1600/IMG_5233.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZaE6xKCvNE/UPEa7RcLkVI/AAAAAAAAEaI/TCEidqUuWpk/s1600/IMG_5258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZaE6xKCvNE/UPEa7RcLkVI/AAAAAAAAEaI/TCEidqUuWpk/s1600/IMG_5258.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">The </span></span>Moselle River</div>
<br />
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Beilstein</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tiny streets, castle ruins, <span style="font-size: small;">ancient wine cellars all make <span style="font-size: small;">this a charming place to stop... to pee<span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><b> </b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdOL6d2HjyI/UPEdusX5xuI/AAAAAAAAEb8/gPFedT_Q2Ac/s1600/IMG_5259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ywq428A9df8/UPEdu38rf5I/AAAAAAAAEcE/idV5DECrFts/s1600/IMG_5260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ywq428A9df8/UPEdu38rf5I/AAAAAAAAEcE/idV5DECrFts/s1600/IMG_5260.JPG" width="200" /></a><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdOL6d2HjyI/UPEdusX5xuI/AAAAAAAAEb8/gPFedT_Q2Ac/s1600/IMG_5259.JPG" width="200" /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eufCNJ9AmkM/UPEdvhihmoI/AAAAAAAAEcM/D26OtLUMFiU/s1600/IMG_5263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eufCNJ9AmkM/UPEdvhihmoI/AAAAAAAAEcM/D26OtLUMFiU/s1600/IMG_5263.JPG" width="200" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bernkastel-Keus</span></b></div>
<span class="st">Bernkastel-Kues is <span style="font-family: Cambria;">well know</span>n wine growing region in the Middle Moselle.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qFQmXXmCg2M/UPEfP0FdnII/AAAAAAAAEeU/vdOgIS94aKA/s1600/IMG_5303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qFQmXXmCg2M/UPEfP0FdnII/AAAAAAAAEeU/vdOgIS94aKA/s1600/IMG_5303.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CWftZmhIMlI/UPEfR2h0LrI/AAAAAAAAEeg/nN-TwtD8lnU/s1600/IMG_5300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CWftZmhIMlI/UPEfR2h0LrI/AAAAAAAAEeg/nN-TwtD8lnU/s1600/IMG_5300.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mIB8Sp3rMok/UPEfLhTNTGI/AAAAAAAAEdk/-ZucUyHNxas/s1600/IMG_5273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mIB8Sp3rMok/UPEfLhTNTGI/AAAAAAAAEdk/-ZucUyHNxas/s1600/IMG_5273.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpEVBkrgpyw/UPEfLKezJfI/AAAAAAAAEdc/HZqXfIrWsdE/s1600/IMG_5270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpEVBkrgpyw/UPEfLKezJfI/AAAAAAAAEdc/HZqXfIrWsdE/s1600/IMG_5270.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CWftZmhIMlI/UPEfR2h0LrI/AAAAAAAAEeg/nN-TwtD8lnU/s1600/IMG_5300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Trier</span></b> <style><!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
mso-themecolor:hyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:purple;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSe</style></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<style> </style><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Trier Christmas Market has the backdrop of the cathedral </span><span class="MsoHyperlink"></span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ja3KL6pszU/UPEgz0zHihI/AAAAAAAAEf4/J7dxcyUNWb8/s1600/IMG_5322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ja3KL6pszU/UPEgz0zHihI/AAAAAAAAEf4/J7dxcyUNWb8/s1600/IMG_5322.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1fB_v4SdAkw/UPEg0enLA6I/AAAAAAAAEf8/zDGCOgnY9kM/s1600/IMG_5327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1fB_v4SdAkw/UPEg0enLA6I/AAAAAAAAEf8/zDGCOgnY9kM/s1600/IMG_5327.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v8e93lbBKvs/UPEg0Z-KS1I/AAAAAAAAEgA/aZ2fk1GkgxQ/s1600/IMG_5328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v8e93lbBKvs/UPEg0Z-KS1I/AAAAAAAAEgA/aZ2fk1GkgxQ/s1600/IMG_5328.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wmro1TuS5tM/UPEg1qI4rjI/AAAAAAAAEgM/N2_HkMdlPYI/s1600/IMG_5334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wmro1TuS5tM/UPEg1qI4rjI/AAAAAAAAEgM/N2_HkMdlPYI/s1600/IMG_5334.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wood-fired goodness!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w-lLohJ7PA0/UPEg1svogWI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/k42RDCtvuXc/s1600/IMG_5341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w-lLohJ7PA0/UPEg1svogWI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/k42RDCtvuXc/s1600/IMG_5341.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Courier New";
panose-1:2 7 3 9 2 2 5 2 4 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Wingdings;
panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:2;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraph, li.MsoListParagraph, div.MsoListParagraph
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
/* List Definitions */
@list l0
{mso-list-id:148640236;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:1971344540 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693;}
@list l0:level1
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Symbol;}
@list l0:level2
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:o;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:"Courier New";}
@list l0:level3
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Wingdings;}
@list l0:level4
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Symbol;}
@list l0:level5
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:o;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:"Courier New";}
@list l0:level6
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Wingdings;}
@list l0:level7
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Symbol;}
@list l0:level8
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:o;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:"Courier New";}
@list l0:level9
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
font-family:Wingdings;}
ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}
ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}
</style></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Porta Nigra</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Saarbrücken </span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">located in </span><span style="font-size: small;">historical St. Johanner Mark<b><b>e</b></b>t square</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lW9sSccc72s/UPEijsPb9oI/AAAAAAAAEh4/_P1gtVnTD8k/s1600/IMG_5422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lW9sSccc72s/UPEijsPb9oI/AAAAAAAAEh4/_P1gtVnTD8k/s1600/IMG_5422.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_JekAfiT388/UPEijmTKR8I/AAAAAAAAEh0/B_eEyW7CB7U/s1600/IMG_5213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_JekAfiT388/UPEijmTKR8I/AAAAAAAAEh0/B_eEyW7CB7U/s1600/IMG_5213.jpg" width="150" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fFHS8o7Szs4/UPEikpLbcLI/AAAAAAAAEiI/ZQ1jQeyVr-4/s1600/IMG_5424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fFHS8o7Szs4/UPEikpLbcLI/AAAAAAAAEiI/ZQ1jQeyVr-4/s1600/IMG_5424.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JxHmkvuZ7ag/UPEijRbv8tI/AAAAAAAAEhw/LO76qTXnJmM/s1600/IMG_5210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JxHmkvuZ7ag/UPEijRbv8tI/AAAAAAAAEhw/LO76qTXnJmM/s1600/IMG_5210.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> <style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style> </b></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Strasbourg, France</b></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></u></b></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">"The Capital of Noel"</span></b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pA69ygoIYkU/UPEkT5meBqI/AAAAAAAAEj8/FXvT4qRKV0o/s1600/IMG_5359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pA69ygoIYkU/UPEkT5meBqI/AAAAAAAAEj8/FXvT4qRKV0o/s1600/IMG_5359.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jua3ns0aFgM/UPEkjTU5riI/AAAAAAAAElQ/y7pfiXoqr2I/s1600/IMG_5400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jua3ns0aFgM/UPEkjTU5riI/AAAAAAAAElQ/y7pfiXoqr2I/s1600/IMG_5400.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gG85VrB0vJM/UPEkdTYpn_I/AAAAAAAAEkE/QnaQL97wyXQ/s1600/IMG_5342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gG85VrB0vJM/UPEkdTYpn_I/AAAAAAAAEkE/QnaQL97wyXQ/s1600/IMG_5342.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NXIOrkdQNFo/UPEkeDbpSjI/AAAAAAAAEkM/oN36cmnB8T8/s1600/IMG_5344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NXIOrkdQNFo/UPEkeDbpSjI/AAAAAAAAEkM/oN36cmnB8T8/s1600/IMG_5344.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CzqLdTvvEbg/UPEke-Qs38I/AAAAAAAAEkc/yL-NJTAp3Og/s1600/IMG_5350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CzqLdTvvEbg/UPEke-Qs38I/AAAAAAAAEkc/yL-NJTAp3Og/s1600/IMG_5350.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tVSIsNLwtrQ/UPEkhKm_xtI/AAAAAAAAEk0/GQ6UaVVlzwc/s1600/IMG_5382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tVSIsNLwtrQ/UPEkhKm_xtI/AAAAAAAAEk0/GQ6UaVVlzwc/s1600/IMG_5382.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4bBU_ZdePg/UPEkhZxvUiI/AAAAAAAAEk4/GJxtGIJvCGQ/s1600/IMG_5389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4bBU_ZdePg/UPEkhZxvUiI/AAAAAAAAEk4/GJxtGIJvCGQ/s1600/IMG_5389.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c3jiLErWKik/UPEkhjBm5yI/AAAAAAAAEk8/VcO1FcJN7xk/s1600/IMG_5390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c3jiLErWKik/UPEkhjBm5yI/AAAAAAAAEk8/VcO1FcJN7xk/s1600/IMG_5390.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KMAHMO2HEg0/UPEkim2GDnI/AAAAAAAAElI/1kaEdx5i4F8/s1600/IMG_5398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KMAHMO2HEg0/UPEkim2GDnI/AAAAAAAAElI/1kaEdx5i4F8/s1600/IMG_5398.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-miL-qXotKIk/UPEkeJPtnZI/AAAAAAAAEkQ/UWZoUj0hN8g/s1600/IMG_5347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-miL-qXotKIk/UPEkeJPtnZI/AAAAAAAAEkQ/UWZoUj0hN8g/s1600/IMG_5347.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mAXDYEjIBqg/UPEkfxYuPII/AAAAAAAAEko/lIiJTuoYzzo/s1600/IMG_5360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mAXDYEjIBqg/UPEkfxYuPII/AAAAAAAAEko/lIiJTuoYzzo/s1600/IMG_5360.JPG" width="133" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-qFQmXXmCg2M%2FUPEfP0FdnII%2FAAAAAAAAEeU%2FvdOgIS94aKA%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5303.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qFQmXXmCg2M/UPEfP0FdnII/AAAAAAAAEeU/vdOgIS94aKA/s1600/IMG_5303.JPG" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-4sNKWqk0sOw%2FUPEWdNsPboI%2FAAAAAAAAEV8%2FWDEW54IsaHw%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5192.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sNKWqk0sOw/UPEWdNsPboI/AAAAAAAAEV8/WDEW54IsaHw/s1600/IMG_5192.JPG" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-mIB8Sp3rMok%2FUPEfLhTNTGI%2FAAAAAAAAEdk%2F-ZucUyHNxas%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5273.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mIB8Sp3rMok/UPEfLhTNTGI/AAAAAAAAEdk/-ZucUyHNxas/s1600/IMG_5273.JPG" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-CWftZmhIMlI%2FUPEfR2h0LrI%2FAAAAAAAAEeg%2FnN-TwtD8lnU%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5300.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CWftZmhIMlI/UPEfR2h0LrI/AAAAAAAAEeg/nN-TwtD8lnU/s1600/IMG_5300.JPG" -->Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-64191485382653822832012-10-22T23:57:00.001-07:002013-06-18T08:40:14.127-07:00One of Many Tuscan Favorites<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Castello di Verrazzano </span></span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span><style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The Castle of Verrazzano is located on a hilltop overlooking the Greve valley in the Chianti Classico area near Florence. The impressive Tuscan sprawl became the property of the Verrazzano family in the 7th century.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This Italian family is also tied to American history, as Giovanni da Verrazzano discovered the New York harbor in 1524. There is a statue of Giovanni in Battery Park, and the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge, the famous suspension bridge that spans New York Harbor, connecting Brooklyn and Staten Island was named after Giovanni da Verrazzano. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">More recently, in 1958, the Cappellini family took over and restored the Castle. Now owned and operated by Luigi Giovanni Cappellini, the Castle of Verrazzano is one of the most renowned wineries in the area.<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.verrazzano.com/en/"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.verrazzano.com/en/</span></span></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S6V_UzFyJ8g/UHoQT0KOWmI/AAAAAAAAEOU/-rzcwSxGoDQ/s1600/IMG_3467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S6V_UzFyJ8g/UHoQT0KOWmI/AAAAAAAAEOU/-rzcwSxGoDQ/s400/IMG_3467.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ho81UD-9o1M/UHoQ27NA7ZI/AAAAAAAAEOc/JlmhtCnDQ1s/s1600/IMG_3477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ho81UD-9o1M/UHoQ27NA7ZI/AAAAAAAAEOc/JlmhtCnDQ1s/s400/IMG_3477.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLyxQ8C1wKM/UHoRbWDVITI/AAAAAAAAEOk/PmcgAWPEDoQ/s1600/IMG_3480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLyxQ8C1wKM/UHoRbWDVITI/AAAAAAAAEOk/PmcgAWPEDoQ/s320/IMG_3480.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QpZFf87XT0M/UHoUlnMZd7I/AAAAAAAAEO0/pj80dThTexI/s1600/IMG_3486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QpZFf87XT0M/UHoUlnMZd7I/AAAAAAAAEO0/pj80dThTexI/s320/IMG_3486.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S8LP6fYiZ5M/UHoV-Hh9FhI/AAAAAAAAEO8/gJdx_OiFed4/s1600/IMG_3489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S8LP6fYiZ5M/UHoV-Hh9FhI/AAAAAAAAEO8/gJdx_OiFed4/s400/IMG_3489.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o37WmZ21tU8/UHoXeJ0RwjI/AAAAAAAAEPE/dQJ1AlGWGbU/s1600/IMG_3491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o37WmZ21tU8/UHoXeJ0RwjI/AAAAAAAAEPE/dQJ1AlGWGbU/s400/IMG_3491.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wtn1F4iY7Fk/UHoYgdTm9XI/AAAAAAAAEPM/Fy8pzBeaVGk/s1600/IMG_3492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wtn1F4iY7Fk/UHoYgdTm9XI/AAAAAAAAEPM/Fy8pzBeaVGk/s400/IMG_3492.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bX0bPT56z6Y/UHobHYd86mI/AAAAAAAAEPc/t6BQdT5QxFU/s1600/IMG_5591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bX0bPT56z6Y/UHobHYd86mI/AAAAAAAAEPc/t6BQdT5QxFU/s400/IMG_5591.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-541295547246216142012-10-07T04:21:00.000-07:002012-10-07T08:27:22.659-07:00No Reservations and No Doubts About Croatian Cuisine Whatsoever<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS Minngs";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"MS Mincho";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vl_Kp9pPS0U/UGTNxymMcQI/AAAAAAAAEEk/n9iqrWCxsfM/s1600/IMG_5075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vl_Kp9pPS0U/UGTNxymMcQI/AAAAAAAAEEk/n9iqrWCxsfM/s320/IMG_5075.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The best wine of my life!!!</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Croatia has been on my travel radar for quite some
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why, do you ask? Perhaps it’s
because that after so many years of war they are experiencing the fruits of
being a liberated nation, or maybe it’s because of the significant amount of
tourist attention they’ve received lately, or it could be due to all the
pictures I’ve seen on Pinterest (that have constantly made me drool).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This particular trip came about when my
brother, Matt, suggested we incorporate Croatia into our upcoming trip to
Italy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Matt had me watch the “No Reservations” episode where
Anthony Bourdain takes his Travel Channel show to the famed Dalmatian Coast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mouth salivated as I watched each segment
of this enticing episode and visually experienced the impeccable culinary
cuisine and wine that is now prevalent in Croatia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Matt is nobody’s fool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knows the effect of food porn on my impressionable
stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is quite remarkable how
successful his strategy was. He managed to get me to, of my own free will, cut into
our days in Tuscany and the Cinque Terre to make this happen. Of course, I was
driven by a powerful incentive… Amazing wine and food. How could I resist?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After taking the 12-hour all night ferry from Ancona, Italy
to Split, Croatia, we rented a car and headed to the island of Pag in search of<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> the Boškinac</span> Hotel
and Winery<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> ( <a href="http://boskinac.com/homepage.en.html">http://boskinac.com/homepage.en.html</a> ). </span>This was not as easy as one
would have hoped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fine folks at
Google Maps laid their tile in the wrong place (I’ll deal with that failure
later).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luckily when we showed a little
old lady running a fruit stand a picture of <span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Boškinac</span> on the iPad, which by the way seemed to be
an entirely new concept to her, she responded by nodding and using her hands
dramatically to motion about ten turns for us to follow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must give props to the
fruit-slinging-Croatian granny… we went right to the winery without any
problems (Granny - 1, Google-0). </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we walked up the beautiful stone staircase to the front
of the <span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Boškinac</span>
Hotel and Winery, I have to admit, I was rather giddy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew I was about to experience food &
wine that Anthony Bourdain seemed to feel was life changing amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He said something along the lines of, “If you
haven't been here, you're a f-@$% idiot. I'm an idiot."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is not a decree I was about to take
lightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was potentially my
Jerusalem, but instead turning my heart towards her in prayer, I would be
raising my glass towards Tuscany and toasting (to God’s amazing creation of
course).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The <span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Boškinac</span>
Hotel and Winery did not disappoint, it was exactly as Bourdain described, <span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“an amazing, crazy-ass spot.”
</span>This beautiful property is tucked away on a hillside in <span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Novalja, a town in the north
of the beautiful island of Pag, along the Adriatic Sea</span> and is surrounded
by vineyards, olive orchards, and pine trees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While it is just a short drive to the famous Zrće Beach, it feels like
you have entered an oasis far removed from the business of life and even the much
dreaded and hard-to-completely-avoid tourism traps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a distinctly Mediterranean feel to
the luxurious hotel pool, patios, and rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The entire sprawl is gorgeous. This family-run establishment is by all
accounts a complete class act.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is
no detail forgotten or any part of their operation that has not been thoroughly
thought out and perfectly executed.<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3IA-OaYRVjY/UGTIHL_saiI/AAAAAAAAECE/o6bZI8WR50s/s400/IMG_2909.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is where you turn off the main road - hard to miss.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hjPR5Ii90ho/UGTOaL2Id0I/AAAAAAAAEE0/vXoPuY10l6s/s400/IMG_5109.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main entrance once you are parked and walking up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V_XTywqsRNE/UGTIzVr5BFI/AAAAAAAAECU/ypv40Q9_nBM/s400/IMG_2947.JPG" width="400" /> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZDlJUp6WUU/UGTGsEogNcI/AAAAAAAAEBc/slUKVKeSrgE/s400/IMG_2881.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading down to the wine cellar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dhnk418FNFE/UGTC9enqMTI/AAAAAAAAD_8/vi9SApmxyUI/s1600/IMG_2839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dhnk418FNFE/UGTC9enqMTI/AAAAAAAAD_8/vi9SApmxyUI/s400/IMG_2839.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel lobby and bar. There is a nice sitting area and access to the patios </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xg18bg6aGEk/UGTH3fYeZBI/AAAAAAAAEB8/JwAHgiQPQE0/s400/IMG_2904.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought this organ in the hallway was a classy touch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhSyxPPY8cY/UGTNFQ6_4rI/AAAAAAAAEEM/dq8UAFzhLck/s400/IMG_4341.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bathroom in the suite was gorgeous</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-okcIRrmnVfg/UGTDa7TZ86I/AAAAAAAAEAM/SnofJkOIdaY/s1600/IMG_2844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-okcIRrmnVfg/UGTDa7TZ86I/AAAAAAAAEAM/SnofJkOIdaY/s320/IMG_2844.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m07nuK-7Zdo/UGTDsgidQyI/AAAAAAAAEAU/R2KdtaRdbnk/s1600/IMG_2848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m07nuK-7Zdo/UGTDsgidQyI/AAAAAAAAEAU/R2KdtaRdbnk/s320/IMG_2848.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Charcuterie plate and shrimp</span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3RrK4n0iiCY/UGTD-AsY2KI/AAAAAAAAEAc/ydoHhqSrNrM/s1600/IMG_2850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3RrK4n0iiCY/UGTD-AsY2KI/AAAAAAAAEAc/ydoHhqSrNrM/s320/IMG_2850.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OSusl8QMaIc/UGTERHhndyI/AAAAAAAAEAk/6wCFEns_j5Q/s1600/IMG_2852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OSusl8QMaIc/UGTERHhndyI/AAAAAAAAEAk/6wCFEns_j5Q/s320/IMG_2852.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bORyOw2nk5w/UGTEfRc3-RI/AAAAAAAAEAs/ySWOBlHOi8g/s1600/IMG_2856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bORyOw2nk5w/UGTEfRc3-RI/AAAAAAAAEAs/ySWOBlHOi8g/s400/IMG_2856.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Boškinac red blend of Cabernet
Sauvignon and Merlot from 2009 is hands-down the best wine I have EVER had in my life. This is no exaggeration. Served with handmade pasta and lamb goulash, I could have stayed here forever.</span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xg18bg6aGEk/UGTH3fYeZBI/AAAAAAAAEB8/JwAHgiQPQE0/s1600/IMG_2904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KkH9pXEty7k/UGTEzvjmIVI/AAAAAAAAEA0/SbXG9cMbNM4/s1600/IMG_2858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KkH9pXEty7k/UGTEzvjmIVI/AAAAAAAAEA0/SbXG9cMbNM4/s400/IMG_2858.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L4Sd-NASJtc/UGTFLpKqxzI/AAAAAAAAEA8/yJHV2I0m7rc/s1600/IMG_2864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L4Sd-NASJtc/UGTFLpKqxzI/AAAAAAAAEA8/yJHV2I0m7rc/s400/IMG_2864.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQzyJwUpIGY/UGTFn-y8JBI/AAAAAAAAEBE/-cisZQFNLZI/s1600/IMG_2865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQzyJwUpIGY/UGTFn-y8JBI/AAAAAAAAEBE/-cisZQFNLZI/s400/IMG_2865.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xwMw6phfpCU/UGTF5qmZNxI/AAAAAAAAEBM/kxOjgbcC7mQ/s1600/IMG_2870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xwMw6phfpCU/UGTF5qmZNxI/AAAAAAAAEBM/kxOjgbcC7mQ/s400/IMG_2870.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4WZTw0S7e8/UGTOGg1aPpI/AAAAAAAAEEs/1EyRwT8Ddy8/s400/IMG_5104.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p_ZLzZ1X7s0/UGTGUhU2kbI/AAAAAAAAEBU/_wvlz-g2uDI/s1600/IMG_2875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p_ZLzZ1X7s0/UGTGUhU2kbI/AAAAAAAAEBU/_wvlz-g2uDI/s400/IMG_2875.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MNugb88nMOY/UGTG8VBTs3I/AAAAAAAAEBk/RYs6n2S4axg/s1600/IMG_2883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MNugb88nMOY/UGTG8VBTs3I/AAAAAAAAEBk/RYs6n2S4axg/s400/IMG_2883.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Czt__anGKp8/UGTHSQuR1EI/AAAAAAAAEBs/BuEZt4q_ICU/s1600/IMG_2887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Czt__anGKp8/UGTHSQuR1EI/AAAAAAAAEBs/BuEZt4q_ICU/s320/IMG_2887.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zokMMN_e_jo/UGTHkzuH14I/AAAAAAAAEB0/2UpLOpJrSwk/s1600/IMG_2889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zokMMN_e_jo/UGTHkzuH14I/AAAAAAAAEB0/2UpLOpJrSwk/s320/IMG_2889.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS Minngs";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"MS Mincho";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;">Mirela Šuljić and Boris Šuljić are the owners of </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Boškinac</span></span></span>. Mirela was busy preparing for a wedding that evening, but stopped what she was doing to give us a tour of the cellar. It was really cool to hear their story and the
history of their winery. Mirela is
wonderful and has the most beautiful blue eyes I have ever seen.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sl_omSn1Vbw/UGTIjlYG57I/AAAAAAAAECM/5G7TncMHLqU/s1600/IMG_2914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sl_omSn1Vbw/UGTIjlYG57I/AAAAAAAAECM/5G7TncMHLqU/s320/IMG_2914.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lop_2ruAy4c/UGTNmtst_ZI/AAAAAAAAEEc/AJ_9iGJ91A0/s1600/IMG_4363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lop_2ruAy4c/UGTNmtst_ZI/AAAAAAAAEEc/AJ_9iGJ91A0/s320/IMG_4363.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Times;
panose-1:2 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS Minngs";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"MS Mincho";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.05in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Zrće beach </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Y-1faBmjbQ/UGTCvtJYP7I/AAAAAAAAD_0/jeF_3p-URok/s1600/IMG_2827.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Y-1faBmjbQ/UGTCvtJYP7I/AAAAAAAAD_0/jeF_3p-URok/s400/IMG_2827.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-62183683089307607382012-09-29T12:20:00.001-07:002012-12-24T10:17:44.649-08:00Santorini<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is the breathtaking village of Oia on the
Greek island of Santorini!! <span style="text-align: left;">Oia (prounanced ‘Ia’) is probably the most
famous and commonly photographed village in Santorini.</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><span style="text-align: left;">The picturesque location is famous for its stunning
sunsets, simple charm, and </span><span style="text-align: left;">ho</span>uses that have been carved into the volcanic rock
cliffs. <span style="text-align: center;">This is a reminiscent of the age of Venetian
rule over the island</span></span></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment--><!--EndFragment--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment--><!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m6JNzlKC2Gw/UGLMv41AurI/AAAAAAAAD3Y/pIkK6lUWA34/s1600/IMG_2193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m6JNzlKC2Gw/UGLMv41AurI/AAAAAAAAD3Y/pIkK6lUWA34/s320/IMG_2193.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6XvNfu8vqCg/UGLMb60CTYI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/2_U2mVIJT6s/s1600/IMG_2184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6XvNfu8vqCg/UGLMb60CTYI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/2_U2mVIJT6s/s320/IMG_2184.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment--><!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E1MSJq94PqE/UGLRGDx2gGI/AAAAAAAAD4o/o4uPG6EKSr8/s1600/IMG_2305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E1MSJq94PqE/UGLRGDx2gGI/AAAAAAAAD4o/o4uPG6EKSr8/s320/IMG_2305.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2qIZOTroi2U/UGLQazBp6OI/AAAAAAAAD4Y/rr-Mw196bcU/s1600/IMG_2294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2qIZOTroi2U/UGLQazBp6OI/AAAAAAAAD4Y/rr-Mw196bcU/s320/IMG_2294.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">There are so many beautiful churches all over the island, the blue dome roof is very common.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5XXsJm_XJ8Y/UGLOfpbzH_I/AAAAAAAAD34/F_KfHeZEHxc/s1600/IMG_2244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5XXsJm_XJ8Y/UGLOfpbzH_I/AAAAAAAAD34/F_KfHeZEHxc/s320/IMG_2244.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dOtVkvPcHLI/UGLQr1EWnbI/AAAAAAAAD4g/EPWcVLCjb4U/s1600/IMG_2302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dOtVkvPcHLI/UGLQr1EWnbI/AAAAAAAAD4g/EPWcVLCjb4U/s320/IMG_2302.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment--><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Oia offers a spectacular view over the volcano as well as the island of Thirassia. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Santorini <span style="text-align: left;">is the site of one of the largest </span><span style="text-align: left;">volcanic
eruptions</span><span style="text-align: left;"> in
recorded history (</span><span style="text-align: left;">over 3500
years ago)</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwFBCH19V4I/UGLRsdgyOkI/AAAAAAAAD44/qDuGYKyuMno/s1600/IMG_2319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwFBCH19V4I/UGLRsdgyOkI/AAAAAAAAD44/qDuGYKyuMno/s320/IMG_2319.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lbh0i0rA74Y/UGQDJGTap8I/AAAAAAAAD7k/K8KMyPhQJLA/s1600/IMG_2270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lbh0i0rA74Y/UGQDJGTap8I/AAAAAAAAD7k/K8KMyPhQJLA/s320/IMG_2270.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Local laws protect beauty of the island by not allowing eyesores such as wires (no need to crop power lines out of these pictures).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2-c4fr1mPM/UGLK-W7vXBI/AAAAAAAAD2w/jMEAFPubDyA/s1600/IMG_1003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2-c4fr1mPM/UGLK-W7vXBI/AAAAAAAAD2w/jMEAFPubDyA/s320/IMG_1003.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sgObUvTb080/UGQMsCJvHuI/AAAAAAAAD9c/BhN_6T1lDuo/s1600/IMG_4604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sgObUvTb080/UGQMsCJvHuI/AAAAAAAAD9c/BhN_6T1lDuo/s320/IMG_4604.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6O5lQeTxqcY/UGLPqO7PgXI/AAAAAAAAD4I/3R5T81Vm9k8/s1600/IMG_2276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yI4H5T6-vkY/UGQBdxbDYEI/AAAAAAAAD7U/k3X1B1WWkTg/s1600/IMG_2196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yI4H5T6-vkY/UGQBdxbDYEI/AAAAAAAAD7U/k3X1B1WWkTg/s320/IMG_2196.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6O5lQeTxqcY/UGLPqO7PgXI/AAAAAAAAD4I/3R5T81Vm9k8/s1600/IMG_2276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6O5lQeTxqcY/UGLPqO7PgXI/AAAAAAAAD4I/3R5T81Vm9k8/s320/IMG_2276.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8GOJ-MJxSg/UGLLM6TtOvI/AAAAAAAAD24/Cw7KnKk-y4Y/s1600/IMG_1033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8GOJ-MJxSg/UGLLM6TtOvI/AAAAAAAAD24/Cw7KnKk-y4Y/s320/IMG_1033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WzfeouRad50/UGQDbRLEMSI/AAAAAAAAD7s/PKeKqoCBL9Q/s1600/IMG_2310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WzfeouRad50/UGQDbRLEMSI/AAAAAAAAD7s/PKeKqoCBL9Q/s320/IMG_2310.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqpc0rauUwg/UGLKt67H8YI/AAAAAAAAD2o/bibY5Y-ES_A/s1600/IMG_0962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqpc0rauUwg/UGLKt67H8YI/AAAAAAAAD2o/bibY5Y-ES_A/s1600/IMG_0962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqpc0rauUwg/UGLKt67H8YI/AAAAAAAAD2o/bibY5Y-ES_A/s320/IMG_0962.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ync3EbZsG2s/UGQMSQOg2NI/AAAAAAAAD9U/7DwPALFbc24/s1600/IMG_4534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ync3EbZsG2s/UGQMSQOg2NI/AAAAAAAAD9U/7DwPALFbc24/s320/IMG_4534.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cg9tRWOfYh0/UGLNu2-CjYI/AAAAAAAAD3o/TpubUDWVaM0/s1600/IMG_2208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cg9tRWOfYh0/UGLNu2-CjYI/AAAAAAAAD3o/TpubUDWVaM0/s320/IMG_2208.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> We recieved a great recommendation for best view of the sunset (thank you scooter rental guy). It was on the patio of Santo Wines. We rode the scooters & quads there and loved every minute.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dKwTh59Zkz8/UGP7ON-KleI/AAAAAAAAD6M/QfUdqY0zFus/s1600/IMG_2363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dKwTh59Zkz8/UGP7ON-KleI/AAAAAAAAD6M/QfUdqY0zFus/s320/IMG_2363.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Santo's patio P.S. Wine tasting via quad is awesome</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SxLkkGfyq_Q/UGP7uPLtSvI/AAAAAAAAD6U/GcnQCORY6Fw/s1600/IMG_2366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SxLkkGfyq_Q/UGP7uPLtSvI/AAAAAAAAD6U/GcnQCORY6Fw/s320/IMG_2366.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VDiYPBPDlgc/UGP6yTtFTdI/AAAAAAAAD6E/5HzP2wBxQyw/s1600/IMG_2360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VDiYPBPDlgc/UGP6yTtFTdI/AAAAAAAAD6E/5HzP2wBxQyw/s320/IMG_2360.jpg" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEw6iKFAYsg/UGS2-y6E4ZI/AAAAAAAAD-k/sKQ398pprbc/s1600/IMG_2372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEw6iKFAYsg/UGS2-y6E4ZI/AAAAAAAAD-k/sKQ398pprbc/s320/IMG_2372.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Red Beach</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6cpcbqddB68/UGQGqisHsAI/AAAAAAAAD8E/CO4EUcSk8jg/s1600/IMG_2508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6cpcbqddB68/UGQGqisHsAI/AAAAAAAAD8E/CO4EUcSk8jg/s320/IMG_2508.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Amazing deep fried goodness at Boutari</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxGQmkpTJIw/UGQF6faqFuI/AAAAAAAAD78/rtQ8VHKOfGE/s1600/IMG_2496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxGQmkpTJIw/UGQF6faqFuI/AAAAAAAAD78/rtQ8VHKOfGE/s320/IMG_2496.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Matt & my mom sampling at Boutari</span></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://boutariwines.com/wineries/santorini/">http://boutariwines.com/wineries/santorini/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zsY9SavQPLo/UGP_QsuB0vI/AAAAAAAAD68/jENEvNgW1Cc/s1600/IMG_2545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zsY9SavQPLo/UGP_QsuB0vI/AAAAAAAAD68/jENEvNgW1Cc/s320/IMG_2545.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mom and I learning about the many layers of earth</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
required for good grape growing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e4jy_V0jbqU/UGP_srTcOaI/AAAAAAAAD7E/fS9lWyCMHk0/s1600/IMG_2546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e4jy_V0jbqU/UGP_srTcOaI/AAAAAAAAD7E/fS9lWyCMHk0/s320/IMG_2546.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tina and I enjoying some sun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_6g-wbGU1EU/UGP8gBn_L0I/AAAAAAAAD6c/BcnCPoFjFfQ/s1600/IMG_1142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_6g-wbGU1EU/UGP8gBn_L0I/AAAAAAAAD6c/BcnCPoFjFfQ/s320/IMG_1142.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Matt did not make friends at the pool</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y5GWNNiVS5Y/UGP9uHTE8mI/AAAAAAAAD6s/_EzP28YsbEE/s1600/IMG_2554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y5GWNNiVS5Y/UGP9uHTE8mI/AAAAAAAAD6s/_EzP28YsbEE/s320/IMG_2554.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Different sands on each side of the island<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FMps7QcfTNk/UGQIH4Kp1RI/AAAAAAAAD8c/IvZapHnf2Us/s1600/IMG_2536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FMps7QcfTNk/UGQIH4Kp1RI/AAAAAAAAD8c/IvZapHnf2Us/s320/IMG_2536.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eVBn9nkwoeo/UGQKzIEvVbI/AAAAAAAAD88/22Jiwx9RoI0/s1600/IMG_2414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eVBn9nkwoeo/UGQKzIEvVbI/AAAAAAAAD88/22Jiwx9RoI0/s320/IMG_2414.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zwv8LbsqFeQ/UGQL0b4tIVI/AAAAAAAAD9M/jjTdOdqNeeI/s1600/IMG_2469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zwv8LbsqFeQ/UGQL0b4tIVI/AAAAAAAAD9M/jjTdOdqNeeI/s320/IMG_2469.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8RgP4aq-lk/UGQLbj5o04I/AAAAAAAAD9E/J_mdp_Hf0eA/s1600/IMG_2415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8RgP4aq-lk/UGQLbj5o04I/AAAAAAAAD9E/J_mdp_Hf0eA/s320/IMG_2415.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_479048593"></span></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-8419684234353302022012-09-19T16:09:00.002-07:002012-12-24T10:18:09.390-08:00Bathhouses, Boobies and Istanbul<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch>
<o:TargetScreenSize>800x600</o:TargetScreenSize>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
“Why yes, by all means, let your larger-than-life ta-ta’s
rest on my forehead as you bathe me.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v7Qy45300DA/UFpOZW4kSDI/AAAAAAAAD1c/7pqSEceURwg/s1600/IMG_2060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v7Qy45300DA/UFpOZW4kSDI/AAAAAAAAD1c/7pqSEceURwg/s320/IMG_2060.JPG" width="320" /></a>My mom, Tina and I recently returned from a
weeklong visit to Turkey. We spent the
last two days of our trip in Istanbul, which is by the way, not enough time. We saw all the usual things visitors would
be hard-pressed to pass up, such as the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Sultanahmet
District, Golden Horn waterfront, Grand Bazaar, museums, and of course we absorbed
much history, architecture, and enjoyed the food & shopping... And absolutely,
a Turkish bath!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
I feel an authentic Turkish bath at an actual bathhouse is
an essential if you plan on visiting Turkey.
Even though I hadn’t done much research on all that a Turkish bath
entailed, I knew this was on my “must-do” list.
A spa treatment in a country famous for them, what could possible go
wrong?? Seemed like a no-brainer,
especially after backpacking the several days prior through the
countryside. Well, there is something
to be said for being armed with information… and I most certainly was not.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-df3aih9JzpY/UFpHkmg9rcI/AAAAAAAAD0A/ZaFJRXqX-TI/s1600/IMG_2062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-df3aih9JzpY/UFpHkmg9rcI/AAAAAAAAD0A/ZaFJRXqX-TI/s320/IMG_2062.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-df3aih9JzpY/UFpHkmg9rcI/AAAAAAAAD0A/ZaFJRXqX-TI/s1600/IMG_2062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>When you first enter the Çemberlitas Hamami <a href="http://www.cemberlitashamami.com/">http://www.cemberlitashamami.com/</a>
you choose oneof several bathing options, and are given a token for what you
have selected and paid for. You are then
pointed towards the direction of the ladies side. Historical note: apparently
back in the day, being caught on the wrong gender side was punishable by death.
Needless to say, we avoided exploring.
Lord knows we were probably already on the jihad list for our other skin
bearing sins i.e. wearing normal clothing. As you adapt to the environment of
the bathhouse, one cannot expect any English or any instructions that maybe deemed helpful. You must be prepared to navigate your way with only grunts and
nudges. We ended up choosing to have
the traditional bath as well as the oil massage. As a result, we were given
three items: a token for each service, and most noteworthy of all… a pair of
black panties. I always love it when my
adventures lead to a free pair of panties… and I didn’t even have to peel these
off anyone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Once in the dressing room area, we stripped, put on our new
matching panties and wrapped ourselves in a thin, checkered, cotton towel
(peştamal) sarong style. We wandered our
way out and other patrons pointed us towards a doorway that led into a large
octagon shaped steam room with a high domed ceiling and marble floors. The steam room had a heated marble platform
(sıcaklık) in the center. Surrounding
the marble platform were bathing basins (kurna) and private bathing cubicles
(halvet). This particular bathhouse is
open until midnight; we arrived a little before 10pm. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
When we walked into the steam room the women working there
made it very clear they were not happy about having three more people arriving at such a late hour (some sentiments are not lost in translation).
They demanded to see our tokens, no doubt hoping we had wandered into
the wrong section. Once they realized
we hadn’t, they pointed for us to lie down on the giant marble platform and
began speaking loudly to each other in Turkish. These were definitely not words
of affirmation, but more like words of disgust from over-worked 60+ year old
women. I’m thinking the labor unions never made it to Turkey. There definitely doesn’t seem to be a
Department of Labor presence to enforce wage & hour laws, that’s for sure.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Now I don’t know if this is true for you… but when I’m
naked, especially in front of a stranger (not that I have tons of experience
here), I lose a bit of my edge, I feel slightly vulnerable. So here we are, exposed to the world, hoping
we’re in the right spot, and directed to lie down next to each other in a giant
room. The attendants are in the same
black panties that we are, and some are wearing black bras, and some are wearing nothing at all. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
What a scene! It’s rather confusing, and to this point not
as relaxing as I’d hoped. After some time passes, my mom is the first of us to
be called. This makes me chuckle as I’m not sure what the older Turkish hamam
ladies will think about my free-spirited, tattooed, firecracker of a
mother. Meanwhile, Tina, myself, and some
random Japanese girl lie practically naked on the marble platform and start to
giggle; this experience is so strange already.
Next up is Tina, we say our goodbyes, God only knows if we’ll see each
other again. Awkward, check;
uncomfortable, check; my turn, check. Upon being summoned, I am rushed to a
different area of the platform and directed to lie face down. As I do so, the
attendant begins to bathe me with an exfoliating scrub and a bubble wash. She grunts and taps my legs when I am to roll
over. Then she leads me to a basin and abruptly, without any warning, dumps
water over me as I sit on the stone.
Wow, that’s not what I expected. Next I am led back to the platform
where another product is rubbed over my body.
Then again, without warning, I am pulled up and led to another room. My
new Japanese friend is watching me as I depart. My soggy undressed body waves
back with a smirk… ha! I know what she
is in for. Little does she know… <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
All in all, I am sure the 15 minute bathing process removed my dead skin, cleansed my
pores, facilitated better skin breathing, and improved blood circulation, yada-yada-yada. However, the abrupt and
callous manner in which I have been handled has left me a little shell-shocked.
I most definitely was not at Bonneville or one of the other spas I love back
home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Just
as I was feeling like a child who had misbehaved and was awaiting a lashing, a
different, kinder set of arms came from behind and wrapped me in a huge
towel. She hugged me, still from behind,
and walked me into the next room. There she helped me up on a massage table. She then began to sing the most angelic song
(albeit in Turkish) as she artfully massaged my body. I enjoyed every moment of her soothing
celestial voice, nodding along as I tried to absorb her joyful emotion. I fear I might have unknowingly paid homage
to Allah, but I figured I could repent later to my God, who seems to be
slightly less angry than Allah. And it must be said, that under the
circumstances, this was probably the safer response knowing full well the angry
naked bath attendant was still in<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6377183301548790225" name="_GoBack"></a> a room nearby. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
After
the massage I was offered a shower to rinse. I then met Tina and my mom in the
large jacuzzi / pool area... where we laughed long and hard about our
individual and completely unique experiences.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
I
really wish I had taken the time to read about the Turkish bath experience
before going… I think it would have made the process less confusing and I would
have managed to stay longer and better enjoy soaking up all the beautiful
facility had to offer. Regardless of an
angry old half-naked bath attendant or two – the experience was amazing!! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AsmVHsnxYAc/UFpCa72t9hI/AAAAAAAADyQ/4Ogolu82OpM/s1600/IMG_1870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AsmVHsnxYAc/UFpCa72t9hI/AAAAAAAADyQ/4Ogolu82OpM/s320/IMG_1870.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7iwh6jv2Kfc/UFpB-UXk8AI/AAAAAAAADyI/xlxB4Y8K4wE/s1600/IMG_0692_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7iwh6jv2Kfc/UFpB-UXk8AI/AAAAAAAADyI/xlxB4Y8K4wE/s320/IMG_0692_2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JuVF18zEPF8/UFpDBNbQpCI/AAAAAAAADyg/gQFxY_1xvis/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JuVF18zEPF8/UFpDBNbQpCI/AAAAAAAADyg/gQFxY_1xvis/s400/IMG_1886.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w2c83bYHy2c/UFpDXeK-ObI/AAAAAAAADyo/YjkiYp83RkM/s1600/IMG_1890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w2c83bYHy2c/UFpDXeK-ObI/AAAAAAAADyo/YjkiYp83RkM/s320/IMG_1890.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nN18WoZUFbY/UFpCxvBZfAI/AAAAAAAADyY/WsoMQ3G9T6I/s1600/IMG_1884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nN18WoZUFbY/UFpCxvBZfAI/AAAAAAAADyY/WsoMQ3G9T6I/s320/IMG_1884.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SZOM_l_dpOk/UFpDyzx9nbI/AAAAAAAADyw/O-pm-K7KDFg/s1600/IMG_1942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SZOM_l_dpOk/UFpDyzx9nbI/AAAAAAAADyw/O-pm-K7KDFg/s400/IMG_1942.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J6VppiGtSWQ/UFpEJAkDt4I/AAAAAAAADy4/VY-qUF5chaU/s1600/IMG_1944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J6VppiGtSWQ/UFpEJAkDt4I/AAAAAAAADy4/VY-qUF5chaU/s320/IMG_1944.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hjQ8Dh-U0sc/UFpFMzDwdPI/AAAAAAAADzI/J2_Dsf6k9fg/s1600/IMG_1988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hjQ8Dh-U0sc/UFpFMzDwdPI/AAAAAAAADzI/J2_Dsf6k9fg/s320/IMG_1988.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6L4lx4Ix8Iw/UFpEjdoYYPI/AAAAAAAADzA/VuxiFI6CVlI/s1600/IMG_1978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6L4lx4Ix8Iw/UFpEjdoYYPI/AAAAAAAADzA/VuxiFI6CVlI/s320/IMG_1978.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hV-nVuKrm7g/UFpG3CIDhmI/AAAAAAAADzw/pNhc9wE5g2w/s1600/IMG_2044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hV-nVuKrm7g/UFpG3CIDhmI/AAAAAAAADzw/pNhc9wE5g2w/s320/IMG_2044.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c1goBPKxJUs/UFpGB41mWxI/AAAAAAAADzY/2u5Fhgqah84/s1600/IMG_1994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c1goBPKxJUs/UFpGB41mWxI/AAAAAAAADzY/2u5Fhgqah84/s400/IMG_1994.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BdD0bg2WS1A/UFpGod8vu2I/AAAAAAAADzo/bnYqb2YpZjY/s1600/IMG_2035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BdD0bg2WS1A/UFpGod8vu2I/AAAAAAAADzo/bnYqb2YpZjY/s400/IMG_2035.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rotIX0_JjxM/UFpGWo_sojI/AAAAAAAADzg/8EmD_dATXLU/s1600/IMG_2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rotIX0_JjxM/UFpGWo_sojI/AAAAAAAADzg/8EmD_dATXLU/s400/IMG_2013.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LVgdmsOQW2s/UFpH4wZEtSI/AAAAAAAAD0I/GEx06QKFNz0/s1600/IMG_2077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LVgdmsOQW2s/UFpH4wZEtSI/AAAAAAAAD0I/GEx06QKFNz0/s400/IMG_2077.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtWy9ZFTTE8/UFpISu_ya8I/AAAAAAAAD0Q/eurKj5Io6vc/s1600/IMG_2079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtWy9ZFTTE8/UFpISu_ya8I/AAAAAAAAD0Q/eurKj5Io6vc/s400/IMG_2079.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iLFiImhp0vU/UFpIoTtrg4I/AAAAAAAAD0Y/-Psnd9z3Wao/s1600/IMG_2089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iLFiImhp0vU/UFpIoTtrg4I/AAAAAAAAD0Y/-Psnd9z3Wao/s400/IMG_2089.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-88507700291391260632012-09-19T16:09:00.001-07:002013-06-18T08:39:50.978-07:00Ankle Pee is the New Turkish Delight<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Recently while in Turkey, we made arrangements to take a 10-hour overnight bus ride from Pamukalle to Cappadocia. I can’t imagine an endeavor like this being fun even on the most modern of highways in the United States. This being the case, I had zero expectation that the rugged and rather primitive roads through the middle of BFE Turkey would be “pleasant.” However, the distance between locations and our scheduling challenges made this the only feasible option.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So there we were. After an awesome day exploring the ruins and calcium deposits of Pamukalle, we boarded a bus in Denizli. As we pulled out of the station, we were headed towards the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia in central Anatolia. By this point there was no turning back. Mental reservations be damned, we were now totally committed to this half-hatched idea.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xnAOn6u1m80/UFo11zZIpEI/AAAAAAAADwo/j70E_xPQI3s/s1600/IMG_0228_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xnAOn6u1m80/UFo11zZIpEI/AAAAAAAADwo/j70E_xPQI3s/s200/IMG_0228_2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Prior to my arrival in Turkey I had read about gender segregation on buses, but it seemed like it was rather trivial. It wasn’t until we purchased our tickets and started our trek across Turkey that we realized how strictly these rules were enforced. Turns out, it is actually a big deal. Here is how it works: The buses designate a certain amount of male seats, and a certain number of female seats. Also, there seemed to be a few mixed seats occupied by couples in the middle. In general though, the gender segregation was disturbingly consistent. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Beyond the annoying insult of feeling Rosa Park-ed, this issue became a hassle at the practical level too. I honestly don’t know what was the bigger pain in the neck- having to move to new seats whenever new people boarded the bus or the literal pain in my neck caused by the uncomfortable seats. Being forced to move happened repeatedly. Sometimes these experiences were even accompanied by aggressive interactions, which were both intimidating and altogether unpleasant.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You may be wondering how I reacted to such treatment… <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SxmItPtvrLo/UFo2GcQ1KPI/AAAAAAAADww/GBO0QPpRCu8/s1600/IMG_1629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SxmItPtvrLo/UFo2GcQ1KPI/AAAAAAAADww/GBO0QPpRCu8/s200/IMG_1629.JPG" width="200" /></a>At first, I subconsciously rolled my eyes with distain, thinking how sad it is that Turkey is still so far behind the times. I thought they were supposed to be a modern-slightly-secular-democratic-we’re-not-technically-a-Muslim-country, country. What-evs, they’re like 99% Muslim and still rub shoulders with some less-than-progressive Middle Eastern neighbors. And if they’re going to go all old school gender apartheid, you’d think they’d at least be somewhat gentlemanlike about it… Do we really need to be confined to the back of the bus, and even forced to use a separate entrance?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As the night wore on, my frustration levels began to climb. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The bus ended up stopping multiple times along the way. At one particular stop there was a sign for a “WC” and I was relieved to be able to use a restroom after consuming so much water (gotta stay hydrated while traveling). Much to my dismay I discovered my 1 lira only bought me the opportunity to squat over a whole in the ground… Ugh! <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6377183301548790225" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Somewhere between hour-four and hour-six we were moved again, this time to the very back of the bus. We weren’t entirely unhappy about this because it meant the three of us got to sit together, and we actually had 5 seats to ourselves – kind of nice! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Around 2am I was desperately trying to get comfortable and fall asleep. Apparently my perv-radar was still alert and going strong, even though I was fatigued and fading fast. I noticed the man in the seat in front of me peaking through the crack a few times. This was no real surprise; we had been eyed like zoo animals at every stop along the way. We actually started referring to ourselves as the Madagascar characters. Picture us as Marty, Melman, and Gloria cruising across the desert... By the reactions we received, you would have thought we were pink polka-dotted elephants standing on our back-legs doing Jello-shots. What did come as a surprise however, was the hand that slowly came between the two seats and gently grazed my lower leg. Huh. This was interesting. While all the sirens in my head were sounding, I didn’t want to over react. Maybe the wandering hand was attached to a body that had fallen asleep, causing the hand to just “drop” and touch my leg. So I simply repositioned myself and moved my leg to the point where it was clearly out of the way. Sure enough, the hand made its way over to my leg once again. Now I was pissed. If this were happening at home, I would have already knocked this guy’s groin through his teeth. But my options were severely limited given the fact that I was surrounded by a busload of men who didn’t see me as having equal rights. This cat and mouse style leg fondling went on for far too long, until I finally pulled my legs up and laid them across the seat. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eventually, mercifully, we arrived at our destination. There a respectable company picked us up and transported us to our launch point for a 5:30am hot air balloon ride to watch the sunrise over the magical chimneys of Cappadocia. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cappadocia was well worth the long bus ride and maybe having my 3-day leg stubble ruffled. By the way, while the disgust of the leg molester was still haunting me, I couldn’t help but chuckle as I remembered how I splattered pee all over my ankles in the bus stop bathroom trying to use the hole-in-the-ground toilet. Hey perv, I hope you enjoyed my secret combo of sunblock and urine!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maybe ankle pee is the new Turkish Delight?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are some pictures of the amazing natural wonders of Cappadocia.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7gm_XYojveQ/UFovJeljZII/AAAAAAAADuw/9B3KmVy_VHo/s1600/IMG_1648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7gm_XYojveQ/UFovJeljZII/AAAAAAAADuw/9B3KmVy_VHo/s320/IMG_1648.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R5q7ybb5BSs/UFouzC-__YI/AAAAAAAADuo/-fsrrUjDelU/s1600/IMG_1642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R5q7ybb5BSs/UFouzC-__YI/AAAAAAAADuo/-fsrrUjDelU/s320/IMG_1642.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XTqzBAlaOB8/UFov5F-3t2I/AAAAAAAADu4/qXC04rQ-iXg/s1600/IMG_1716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XTqzBAlaOB8/UFov5F-3t2I/AAAAAAAADu4/qXC04rQ-iXg/s320/IMG_1716.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-woM0eJ8IW7g/UFoxGchdzgI/AAAAAAAADvI/HlUepUWJ80g/s1600/IMG_1725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-woM0eJ8IW7g/UFoxGchdzgI/AAAAAAAADvI/HlUepUWJ80g/s320/IMG_1725.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lveNKOhfjr0/UFo373TCGhI/AAAAAAAADxI/DGzAmGcCl5Y/s1600/IMG_0388_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lveNKOhfjr0/UFo373TCGhI/AAAAAAAADxI/DGzAmGcCl5Y/s400/IMG_0388_2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cpzIb7YmSvo/UFowk0KjliI/AAAAAAAADvA/80B2oLDxb1w/s1600/IMG_1719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cpzIb7YmSvo/UFowk0KjliI/AAAAAAAADvA/80B2oLDxb1w/s400/IMG_1719.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-95vabP0vzkM/UFoxYKPq16I/AAAAAAAADvQ/kOnjnjNgjBM/s1600/IMG_1727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-95vabP0vzkM/UFoxYKPq16I/AAAAAAAADvQ/kOnjnjNgjBM/s400/IMG_1727.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5IVZ2MWS0s/UFoxq0BahFI/AAAAAAAADvY/mzq_zwL5fZE/s1600/IMG_1731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5IVZ2MWS0s/UFoxq0BahFI/AAAAAAAADvY/mzq_zwL5fZE/s320/IMG_1731.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UaREwzNhLo0/UFoywHvjOeI/AAAAAAAADvw/HBK23cVUGbs/s1600/IMG_1780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UaREwzNhLo0/UFoywHvjOeI/AAAAAAAADvw/HBK23cVUGbs/s320/IMG_1780.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nRxt9LPSJCE/UFoyKb-L0TI/AAAAAAAADvg/whMt5JMwGpE/s1600/IMG_1769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nRxt9LPSJCE/UFoyKb-L0TI/AAAAAAAADvg/whMt5JMwGpE/s320/IMG_1769.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZJGWRDa15k/UFoycFwQw_I/AAAAAAAADvo/D-U4yv3WSU4/s1600/IMG_1770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZJGWRDa15k/UFoycFwQw_I/AAAAAAAADvo/D-U4yv3WSU4/s320/IMG_1770.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PUjLN91Ucu8/UFozGvXbdNI/AAAAAAAADv4/_Tya98DZmAE/s1600/IMG_1788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PUjLN91Ucu8/UFozGvXbdNI/AAAAAAAADv4/_Tya98DZmAE/s400/IMG_1788.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FyRDoxxosvA/UFozfxBM40I/AAAAAAAADwA/qiYhZyfdOkM/s1600/IMG_1792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FyRDoxxosvA/UFozfxBM40I/AAAAAAAADwA/qiYhZyfdOkM/s400/IMG_1792.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fFCjWsMnSs/UFozswrHoJI/AAAAAAAADwI/cNHQeGPa7b0/s1600/IMG_1793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fFCjWsMnSs/UFozswrHoJI/AAAAAAAADwI/cNHQeGPa7b0/s400/IMG_1793.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dcQIu80nLqw/UFo0Cfy76cI/AAAAAAAADwQ/hKp7goc-G3o/s1600/IMG_1805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dcQIu80nLqw/UFo0Cfy76cI/AAAAAAAADwQ/hKp7goc-G3o/s320/IMG_1805.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--XL8kBh3iWQ/UFo0ouAwD9I/AAAAAAAADwY/NF2I7lxikaA/s1600/IMG_1827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--XL8kBh3iWQ/UFo0ouAwD9I/AAAAAAAADwY/NF2I7lxikaA/s320/IMG_1827.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RDY0QIEnd_E/UFo0-Q5SpII/AAAAAAAADwg/emviHFrIUUM/s1600/IMG_1833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RDY0QIEnd_E/UFo0-Q5SpII/AAAAAAAADwg/emviHFrIUUM/s320/IMG_1833.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aSXOPcH7Tio/UFo3PGT-FmI/AAAAAAAADw4/0IvfiD6xLC4/s1600/DSCN0733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aSXOPcH7Tio/UFo3PGT-FmI/AAAAAAAADw4/0IvfiD6xLC4/s320/DSCN0733.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NAz_YJELcsU/UFo3jfNf7oI/AAAAAAAADxA/fmv-uyxOcBk/s1600/IMG_1856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NAz_YJELcsU/UFo3jfNf7oI/AAAAAAAADxA/fmv-uyxOcBk/s320/IMG_1856.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-71553062887594606702012-09-19T16:08:00.000-07:002013-06-18T08:39:31.430-07:00Turkey - Gobble Gobble <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS Minngs";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"MS Mincho";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:purple;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
span.st
{mso-style-name:st;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-parent:"";
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dyjgaNj7kW8/UFobcwOlhWI/AAAAAAAADrQ/Yk4v2UssGdo/s1600/IMG_1268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dyjgaNj7kW8/UFobcwOlhWI/AAAAAAAADrQ/Yk4v2UssGdo/s200/IMG_1268.jpg" width="200" /></a>I would have never thought Turkey would be on my list of places to visit, but earlier this month I found myself on a boat leaving a Greek island (Rhodes) for the <span class="st"><span style="font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">port city </span></span>of Bodrum, Turkey… and I am so glad I did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While Turkey has its share of woes, the history is fascinating, the people captivating, and there is enough to see and do to keep traveler occupied for quite some time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>5 days is definitely just scratching the surface. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After arriving by hydrofoil boat in the early evening </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zXhYtsWTJw/UFoqSmGQGhI/AAAAAAAADtU/pNO-os7Bp8M/s1600/IMG_1303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zXhYtsWTJw/UFoqSmGQGhI/AAAAAAAADtU/pNO-os7Bp8M/s200/IMG_1303.JPG" width="200" /></a>( <a href="http://www.turkishsealines.com/">www.turkishsealines.com</a> ) we set out to explore the coastal town of Bodrum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Despite the crowds and touristic feel, Bodrum has an idyllic charm grounding it to its rich history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps this is because the city is built on and around the ancient city of Halicarnassus, dating back to 1000 BC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We stayed the night at a great little family run pension called the Hotel Gulec (<a href="http://www.hotelgulec.com/">www.hotelgulec.com</a>) .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surrounded by tangerine trees and a beautiful garden, the spotlessly clean and basic room was the perfect transition into Turkey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent the evening wandering the streets, tasting great foods, and trying to navigate the hundreds of shops/vendors.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TlZ-GTT0XYs/UFoZdJsmrGI/AAAAAAAADrI/Mh0tbqx_roo/s1600/IMG_1262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TlZ-GTT0XYs/UFoZdJsmrGI/AAAAAAAADrI/Mh0tbqx_roo/s200/IMG_1262.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPqY3p-4oE4/UFoT8zg92PI/AAAAAAAADqE/waXVCHgz_eQ/s1600/IMG_1253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPqY3p-4oE4/UFoT8zg92PI/AAAAAAAADqE/waXVCHgz_eQ/s200/IMG_1253.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UP3wqP0LGls/UFoWPlRBJjI/AAAAAAAADqM/ALUsEqz1vs0/s1600/IMG_1258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UP3wqP0LGls/UFoWPlRBJjI/AAAAAAAADqM/ALUsEqz1vs0/s200/IMG_1258.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since Bodrum was just our entry point into Turkey, so we didn’t get much time to experience all that this town has to offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The next afternoon we were boarding a bus to Pamukkale by way of Denizli.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After the bus dropped us off in the tiny town of Pamukkale we made our way to our to our next hostel, the family owned/operated Ozbay Guesthouse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After settling into our room we grabbed a bite to eat at the restaurant onsite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There we made friends with a member of the family, named Euseph, who not only was excellent company but also gave us a midnight tour of the calcium deposits at Pamukkale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was by far the highlight of our time in Pamukkale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To be there without any other people under the moonlight was simply magical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had already decided to take a tour of the Roman ruins and the calcium deposit the next morning, but experiencing this first, was awesome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since the park is open 24 hours per day, I would highly recommend that anyone going have the midnight experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tdAkDIvDGUA/UForiRLMhQI/AAAAAAAADts/xK60Z8af1oo/s1600/IMG_1456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tdAkDIvDGUA/UForiRLMhQI/AAAAAAAADts/xK60Z8af1oo/s320/IMG_1456.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z6TAhLykU14/UForKZ79rdI/AAAAAAAADtk/CM10nri6n2M/s1600/IMG_0112_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z6TAhLykU14/UForKZ79rdI/AAAAAAAADtk/CM10nri6n2M/s320/IMG_0112_2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ej2pdzfxAg8/UFojEhDKFqI/AAAAAAAADr4/zVZc72b5YT4/s1600/IMG_1559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ej2pdzfxAg8/UFojEhDKFqI/AAAAAAAADr4/zVZc72b5YT4/s320/IMG_1559.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dUy-cfAqIzM/UFopRm-46xI/AAAAAAAADtM/Pfhv8ZF5tj4/s1600/IMG_1558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dUy-cfAqIzM/UFopRm-46xI/AAAAAAAADtM/Pfhv8ZF5tj4/s320/IMG_1558.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fozs8qUlwhc/UFonB7pRVgI/AAAAAAAADs8/rqk9r-5vkCo/s1600/IMG_1619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fozs8qUlwhc/UFonB7pRVgI/AAAAAAAADs8/rqk9r-5vkCo/s320/IMG_1619.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AQ22vQZwqTg/UFoiG6CnBSI/AAAAAAAADrw/wV5_Bbs05qQ/s1600/IMG_0351_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AQ22vQZwqTg/UFoiG6CnBSI/AAAAAAAADrw/wV5_Bbs05qQ/s320/IMG_0351_2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3zXQCuCrTPk/UFogoYR7YLI/AAAAAAAADro/_YDJBZXro0A/s1600/IMG_1533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3zXQCuCrTPk/UFogoYR7YLI/AAAAAAAADro/_YDJBZXro0A/s320/IMG_1533.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pj89S-I8GXQ/UFofNfU4KqI/AAAAAAAADrg/aAlTP2QqJoE/s1600/IMG_1506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pj89S-I8GXQ/UFofNfU4KqI/AAAAAAAADrg/aAlTP2QqJoE/s320/IMG_1506.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C0HyFgqNCAQ/UFoq0w6lWRI/AAAAAAAADtc/TvdAeeerxvQ/s1600/IMG_1487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C0HyFgqNCAQ/UFoq0w6lWRI/AAAAAAAADtc/TvdAeeerxvQ/s320/IMG_1487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gGm8J4t3hhk/UFod6Jlu6fI/AAAAAAAADrY/PMJe7WlzHEo/s1600/IMG_1501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gGm8J4t3hhk/UFod6Jlu6fI/AAAAAAAADrY/PMJe7WlzHEo/s320/IMG_1501.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-59580789803519276702012-09-07T02:16:00.000-07:002013-06-18T08:39:14.746-07:00I Bought You with My Wine…Well, My Wine Money<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS Minngs";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"MS Mincho";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Minngs";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
</style><br />
<div>
</div>
--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had been looking forward to going to Dourakis all week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dourakis has become my favorite local winery, with their beautiful property, kind owners, and variety of exceptional wines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On a recent highly anticipated trip, I was planning on stocking up on Rosé for the warm summer evenings, especially since my family would soon be arriving for a visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The morning started out with a trip to the outdoor market. This was to be a quick stop prior to the main event of visiting the winery. However, something caught my eye that changed the course of my day…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WE5N72_Vt6g/UEm535uj_DI/AAAAAAAADoI/01uOQf9bfSs/s1600/IMG_3991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WE5N72_Vt6g/UEm535uj_DI/AAAAAAAADoI/01uOQf9bfSs/s320/IMG_3991.jpg" width="240" /></a>Normally I am cautious of muddling with nature, compromising the food chain, or trying to domesticate animals that have no business being domesticated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mom definitely pushed my limits with this type of shenanigans while I was growing up, so my brothers and I tend to favor the other extreme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Am I personally going to mount Bambie’s antlers on my wall, or make a Yogi Bear skinned rug?? – um, NO!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the other hand, I won’t interfere with someone else’s right to do so. Nor will I be that crazy person who refuses to poison rats or squash a spider.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nature has a rhythm and a pattern- and I say, let it be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, at least most of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are the exceptions to every rule, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This day, my quick stroll through the market turned into a fine example of when an exception must be made. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had reviewed my shopping list, I needed fruit, vegetables, cheese, olives, honey, and a plant for my balcony… something that flowers, and will also withstand severe neglect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pause to contemplate why I am so abusive to plants?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But no reasonable answer comes to mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make my way through the crowded street and check things off my list one by one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, there it is… the one area that troubles me each time I visit… the meat section.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The meat section here is not like the meat sections in Costco or other U.S. stores.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The meat section here contains “live” animals as well as freshly slain goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, fish and various other species that were most likely alive while you were making coffee that morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m no vegetarian… I thoroughly enjoy my meat!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But c’mon, I don’t want to have physical contact with my dinner moments before its death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure the argument could be made that this is a far healthier way to process meat than the god-awful slaughter houses in the U.S., but I still can’t bear the sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t even handle witnessing a lion taking down a wildebeest on Animal Planet. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On this particular morning, it is the cages containing rabbits that alarm me. Some small, some large, but all so innocently lying in their cages, working on their tans and no doubt trying to soak in extra “luck” into their feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am moved with compassion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something in me says not to interfere with the local customs, but I can’t help myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The thought of little Thumper being marinated in wine and served as a bunny stew entrée tears me up inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I decide I want to, no- I need to, buy these cute little furballs and take them home with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My cranky neighbor has a beautiful garden I know these bunnies would love to destroy (evil smirk crosses my face).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find myself fumbling through my purse; oh crap, I don’t have many euros left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, all I can find is the exact amount of money I set aside for buying wine (my all important next stop).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a predicament! There is no way I can buy all the rabbits here, I feel so helpless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1whBiXyRt3M/UEm6AlZ72EI/AAAAAAAADoQ/3fB8YHTjTu0/s1600/IMG_3995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1whBiXyRt3M/UEm6AlZ72EI/AAAAAAAADoQ/3fB8YHTjTu0/s320/IMG_3995.JPG" width="320" /></a>I turn to leave, but only briefly. A new thought hits me. I suddenly realize, I can’t buy them all… but I can buy one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would mean forgoing the wine stop, but I am intrigued by this possibility. Yes, I have been <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i> looking forward to purchasing a case of Dourakis Rosé for the entire past week, but deep down I know my conscious won’t let me off that easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I picture my Riley boy, caged, being sold as a Tallensi delicacy in a Ghana market, and I know what I must do…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And who knows, maybe this is my Angelina Jolie moment?? But instead of collecting children, I will rescue future-meals from around the world and set them free??<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmm, I better work on getting lip injections and a boob job before the story breaks and the paparazzi comes looking for me… As these thoughts gain steam and begin to take hold, I find myself uneasy with this comparison… I am still pretty mad about her slutty behavior with Brad while he was still married to Jen (gosh, I miss Friends).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I shake my head, back to saving my bunny.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I tell the man that I want to buy a rabbit; I pick the most active one because I feel he will have the best chance of surviving in the wild (think Hunger Games).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man looks at me puzzled and then asks in broken English if I want to take my picture with the bunny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because clearly why else would this crazy American be gushing over this entrée?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His buddy is already looking at me like I’m peculiar because of my enthusiastic obsession with prickly pear fruit. But who cares what these bunny killers think. I explain that I don’t want a picture, just the bunny. I give him my euros, he shakes his head, grabs the bunny, oddly shows me the rabbit's “maleness”, puts him in a box and hands the box over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And just like that, a life is spared.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decide my bunny shall be named Vino, after all, I purchased him with my wine… well, my wine money anyway.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vino was tossed into a box tied closed with twine and handed to be like he was a parcel to be mailed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thinking this treatment seemed too callous, I forced the box-top open a bit, and let in some natural light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vino stayed pretty still on t<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">he way home, scratching around here and there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once home, I removed the box lid and put a carrot, lettuce (fresh from the market) and some water in his box. Then I left him alone on the balcony for a few minutes in hopes his heart rate would calm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Riley is completely curious about this strange visitor, and terrifies Vino with his gigantic head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Riley should be the least of Vino’s worries, but I try not to dwell on this… Vino has a big adventure in front of him, rife with danger, and he will have a lot to adjust to. But I know this must be done and comfort myself with the thought that his odds of survival are much higher than they were only a few hours ago. I take Vino to a lush area with a river, at the entrance to an olive grove, and triumphantly set him free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vino doesn’t scurry off… he just sits there, twitching his nose in the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After several heart-felt moments I decided I should probably leave and let the little guy adapt to his natural surroundings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I walk away I look over my shoulder wondering if he is going to follow me like a puppy and want to come home with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He doesn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I see the hawks flying above and mentally tell Vino to get into the nearby sticker bushes to protect himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I fear he may end up being an entrée for someone after all… Ugh. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the emotional anguish has me looking forward to nice crisp glass of Rosé.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Too bad my wine… is hopping away from me.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s3bppmPJSMY/UEm6MHdA0VI/AAAAAAAADoY/2X_vpayky6E/s1600/IMG_3980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s3bppmPJSMY/UEm6MHdA0VI/AAAAAAAADoY/2X_vpayky6E/s320/IMG_3980.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LWcqcaYsUds/UEm6dDo6bmI/AAAAAAAADpA/DjXNVeVqLMA/s1600/IMG_3987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LWcqcaYsUds/UEm6dDo6bmI/AAAAAAAADpA/DjXNVeVqLMA/s320/IMG_3987.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6377183301548790225" name="_GoBack"></a></div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-76097599428782112032012-08-28T01:34:00.001-07:002013-06-18T08:38:52.083-07:00Good Support is Hard to Find<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z0hLyOUxmTE/UDx7MW2bq6I/AAAAAAAADmM/hrM92RM3HMg/s1600/IMG_3951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z0hLyOUxmTE/UDx7MW2bq6I/AAAAAAAADmM/hrM92RM3HMg/s320/IMG_3951.jpg" width="240" /></a>Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest I’ve had no shortage of exposure to open-air markets. Everything from the flying fish at the world renown Pike Place Market in Seattle, to the body odor and patchouli stank of the famous Saturday Market on Portland’s waterfront, and of course MY personal favorites- the local Farmers Markets. These local markets are popping up everywhere, and you can buy anything from fresh produce, locally made wines, handmade soaps, organic dog treats, fresh cheeses, baked goods, and whole assortment of arts & crafts. I am a big proponent of eating local and keeping revenue in one’s own community. Ahhhh the sense of community, a sentiment that can consume me at times, especially on these crisp mornings at the market as I feel the weight of an over-complicated world sloughing off my shoulders. Oh and don’t even get me started on the never-ending free samples for my insatiable appetite and stretched out stomach. If I’m walking back with my tummy full, my puppy tired, and my reusable shopping bags crammed with purchases- it has definitely been a successful morning (and my inner-hippie beams with pride).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-axcZMds8-3c/UDx6hM3d6nI/AAAAAAAADlk/eUtRTGizGeM/s1600/IMG_3957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-axcZMds8-3c/UDx6hM3d6nI/AAAAAAAADlk/eUtRTGizGeM/s320/IMG_3957.jpg" width="240" /></a>There is something primitive, grounding and energizing about an early morning stroll through a local market, and it has become almost a sacred ritual for me. This is true for me in the States, but also abroad as well. Greece is no exception, and I’ve quickly grown quite fond of the weekend market near the old harbor in Chania. One difference I’ve noted is the pace. Things are not as relaxed as the markets back home. In fact, it is one of the rare occasions you see native Greeks moving fast at all. Greeks don’t seem to do anything with a sense of urgency (maybe their laziness contributes to the low crime rate??). Perhaps their view of the market is unlike ours. For them, the markets are a competitive way of life, with much on the line- not just a trendy, self-righteous attempt to embrace sustainable living and to be environmentally friendly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This weekend I entered the market from a different entrance than normal. Typically I enter to a dizzying array of fruits, vegetables, flowers, cheeses, wines, honey, olives, fresh fish, and the like. However, from this entry point, I encountered textiles, clothes, dishes, and undergarments being sold like they were straight from the farmer’s field. I chuckled as I watched the women pick through the tables, and hold the bras and panties against themselves trying to decide if the size was right. Quickly, I cringed as I flashed back to my early years of bra shopping, when I would just grab bras I liked in the size I deemed would be the best fit. As my thoughts rolled forward, later into my teen years, I recall my grandmother taking me bra shopping at Nordstrom. Here the floodgates of ta-ta support were opened before me! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wrgNz4kt21k/UDx5SJtSlPI/AAAAAAAADlU/-GHj9UzajHM/s1600/IMG_3904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wrgNz4kt21k/UDx5SJtSlPI/AAAAAAAADlU/-GHj9UzajHM/s320/IMG_3904.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was in the Nordstrom’s Intimate Apparel department where I learned that there was a correct way one should be measured. Now, I don’t think anyone actually enjoys being “fitted” for a bra, as it is rather embarrassing. You stand there, bare chested, while a stranger sizes you up (no pun intended). You awkwardly ask yourself, “Umm, should I lift my head, square my shoulders, arch my back and proudly push my girls out in a pose… hold out a tip jar maybe, while trying to convince myself I’m only doing this to ‘pay for college.’ Or do I look down sheepishly, slouch my shoulders and pray to God this ends as quickly as possible without an accidental nipple graze?” Thank heavens the middle-aged woman at Nordstrom was more of a mother-type, and didn’t make the experience any more traumatic than necessary. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u13eoL6yDKM/UDx5NC8EzsI/AAAAAAAADlM/osH1nswOHFo/s1600/IMG_3888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u13eoL6yDKM/UDx5NC8EzsI/AAAAAAAADlM/osH1nswOHFo/s320/IMG_3888.jpg" width="240" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj2T9YEeu_Y/UDx4hfwVuPI/AAAAAAAADlE/T2g88ZhB-kg/s1600/IMG_3875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj2T9YEeu_Y/UDx4hfwVuPI/AAAAAAAADlE/T2g88ZhB-kg/s320/IMG_3875.JPG" width="240" /></a>Until this weekend, I was convinced that it was Victoria’s Secret who held the gold medal in the “Worst Place for a Bra Fitting” category. Sure, you are drawn to the Pink VS stores because of the trendy lines, variety, and oh-my… the body products! (Yes, please!!) Unfortunately, once inside you are usually forced to deal with the inept sales staff who are less interested in fitting someone correctly, than they are in who they are meeting for happy hour after their shift, or what they are going to buy with their employee discount (yeah, snatch, I know your boobs went from an “A” to a “D” when you strapped on that three inch memory foam this morning –who are you trying to kid?). I once had a VS employee suggest I buy a different size because they were out of the size I needed! I shudder, knowing that if Ms. Nordstrom would have gotten wind of VS’s suggestion, her life might have prematurely ended in a measuring-tape-hanging-accident. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here I am, standing in an explosion of bras in a humid Greek outdoor market, when I notice who is selling these wares. The man sitting behind the tables is dripping sweat, hairier than Sasquatch, and just happens to be wearing dirty pants and a wife-beater tank. It is more than I can bear. I immediately promise myself I’ll become a braless, unshaven, patchouli-drenched hippie before I ever let a man whose breast are bigger than mine sell me such sacred vestments. I knew I’d miss comforts of home, and those who know me can imagine how much I miss Nordy’s, but never in a million years would I have guessed I would find myself longing for the incompetent college drop outs at VS… and their misleading memory foam.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are a few more iPhone photos from the market</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jm_lvX0mWO0/UDx6CYjhdhI/AAAAAAAADlc/b87c0GQ7lTk/s1600/IMG_3977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jm_lvX0mWO0/UDx6CYjhdhI/AAAAAAAADlc/b87c0GQ7lTk/s320/IMG_3977.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WAtXb_WRmI4/UDx6lSmU3CI/AAAAAAAADls/oIhYDRsJmGI/s1600/IMG_3958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WAtXb_WRmI4/UDx6lSmU3CI/AAAAAAAADls/oIhYDRsJmGI/s320/IMG_3958.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hQIbRk6S6O0/UDx7D6nTjhI/AAAAAAAADl8/7xm9LfW1Xt8/s1600/IMG_3947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hQIbRk6S6O0/UDx7D6nTjhI/AAAAAAAADl8/7xm9LfW1Xt8/s320/IMG_3947.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h27fOiIHdes/UDx6rmPf9_I/AAAAAAAADl0/9WCWaFo41mY/s1600/IMG_3959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h27fOiIHdes/UDx6rmPf9_I/AAAAAAAADl0/9WCWaFo41mY/s320/IMG_3959.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-33ALUc-M32c/UDx8YE0HCxI/AAAAAAAADms/tx42PhGTukM/s1600/IMG_3921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-33ALUc-M32c/UDx8YE0HCxI/AAAAAAAADms/tx42PhGTukM/s320/IMG_3921.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dIgRgmS4MR0/UDx8PnfOVXI/AAAAAAAADmc/vHW6vHsw6lM/s1600/IMG_3915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dIgRgmS4MR0/UDx8PnfOVXI/AAAAAAAADmc/vHW6vHsw6lM/s320/IMG_3915.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uP7PykmsZiM/UDx7RduSiJI/AAAAAAAADmU/mJ7BcusWNlg/s1600/IMG_3955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uP7PykmsZiM/UDx7RduSiJI/AAAAAAAADmU/mJ7BcusWNlg/s320/IMG_3955.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_dVSxeBQ-c0/UDx8cYv0x1I/AAAAAAAADm0/VgoCK7TK5L8/s1600/IMG_3923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_dVSxeBQ-c0/UDx8cYv0x1I/AAAAAAAADm0/VgoCK7TK5L8/s320/IMG_3923.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ptQP4WHfCZg/UDx8kbpnX6I/AAAAAAAADnE/klswyAhaTSc/s1600/IMG_3942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ptQP4WHfCZg/UDx8kbpnX6I/AAAAAAAADnE/klswyAhaTSc/s320/IMG_3942.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OYG14TK8yno/UDx8prXD8kI/AAAAAAAADnM/QR_xWa0vkoo/s1600/IMG_3946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OYG14TK8yno/UDx8prXD8kI/AAAAAAAADnM/QR_xWa0vkoo/s320/IMG_3946.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-2132427291697003132012-08-27T14:13:00.000-07:002012-10-06T23:10:45.298-07:00The Moon-Spinners<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch>
<o:TargetScreenSize>800x600</o:TargetScreenSize>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My best friend, Nicole, and I have had many mischievous
adventures together over the past two decades.
We have never lacked reasons to play detective or sharpen our
reconnaissance skills (referred to by some as stalking). So when her mom made a trek down from France
for a visit, it should have come as no surprise that she channeled her inner
Nancy Drew and had the urge to play sleuth as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0uyEtTk8zTM/UDuiidJ5z5I/AAAAAAAADe0/hfL-D63a9Fs/s1600/MV5BMTg4MjIzMjI2NF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwODc4OTgxMQ@@._V1._SY317_CR4,0,214,317_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0uyEtTk8zTM/UDuiidJ5z5I/AAAAAAAADe0/hfL-D63a9Fs/s1600/MV5BMTg4MjIzMjI2NF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwODc4OTgxMQ@@._V1._SY317_CR4,0,214,317_.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our conversations of ancient Greek mythology, Venetian architecture,
biblical history, and infamous WWII battles, soon led to movies and TV shows
filmed in the area. Being a Disney
buff, she knew the 1964 movie <i>The
Moon-Spinners</i> was filmed on the island of Crete. I had never seen the movie nor had I read
the preceding Mary Stewart suspense novel on which it was based, but I’m a
sucker for a challenge. Plus, I had watched Pollyanna and Parent Trap
religiously as a child (clearly there was no cable in my house growing up) and
I couldn’t imagine the movie that made everyone fall in love with Hayley Mills
could be a complete disappointment.
Having names like Walt Disney and Eli Wallach attached to the movie
didn’t hurt either. Terri and I found ourselves spending a morning scouring over
blogs, forums, and web-pages in search for any information we could find concerning
the exact location of various scenes and seeing if we could match it up to a
location on our map. This proved to be difficult as we ran into a shortage of available information on the filming
sites. This could be because the movie was filmed almost 50 years ago, and a
contributing factor might be that the movie was never a box office hit.
Luckily, we caught a major break when we stumbled across a blog posting by a
guy from Tennessee named Jerry Maloy <a href="http://d23.disney.go.com/news/2011/09/on-location-in-greece/">http://d23.disney.go.com/news/2011/09/on-location-in-greece/</a>
. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Jerry had an advantage. For one, he had actually seen the
movie, but also he had spent quite a bit of time researching prior to his visit
to the Eastern coastline of Crete. His hard work paid off, and arrived in
Greece with the movie’s shooting schedule in hand, thanks to a favor from the Walt
Disney Archives staff. To give credit where credit is due, Jerry’s enthusiasm
and hard work were pivotal in our journey’s inspiration and success.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NAZG_cmZ0Xw/UDunu2nijtI/AAAAAAAADfU/9rheTwYhKQM/s1600/P1040140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NAZG_cmZ0Xw/UDunu2nijtI/AAAAAAAADfU/9rheTwYhKQM/s200/P1040140.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Armed with a map and anticipation that would rival that of a
treasure hunter we set out on the 2 ½ hour drive along the coastline of Crete
towards Agios Nikolaos. Thanks to our new BFF Jerry, we knew for certain that
Walt Disney himself, and the cast and crew stayed in Agios Nikolaos at the Minos
Beach Art Hotel while filming. We
stopped by this hotel, and the gracious staff gladly pointed us to a table with
several leather-bound guest books dating all the way back to the 60s. Just a handful of pages into the very first
book lay the signature of Walt Disney himself, and a few pages later a
signature and inscription from Hayley Mills as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0isQx3oyh9c/UDvJXdus_TI/AAAAAAAADj0/6mBTnBiq17c/s1600/IMG_3855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0isQx3oyh9c/UDvJXdus_TI/AAAAAAAADj0/6mBTnBiq17c/s200/IMG_3855.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a>Just a few kilometers outside of Aghios Nikolaos is the
charming town of Elounda, where the majority of the movie was filmed. The site of the Moon-Spinners Inn is now the
Vritomartes Taverna, and after watching the movie I can tell you it, to this
day, very much resembles the Inn. While
in Elounda we stopped for a smoothie and showed the waiter a picture of the
three windmills from the opening credits.
He smiled and said something in Greek while motioning towards the sky,
then in broken English said, “Moon Spinner.”
Ahhh, “yes!” we exclaimed and asked him if he knew where they were located. He pointed us towards the east, we walked
about a mile and… there they were, we beheld what is left of the remaining
windmills.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Below are some photos of the locations we found from the 1964 movie, The
Moon-Spinners.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XbzgnW_1jAg/UDvJpKYfMwI/AAAAAAAADkE/SEwgWWmUd_M/s1600/IMG_3851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XbzgnW_1jAg/UDvJpKYfMwI/AAAAAAAADkE/SEwgWWmUd_M/s200/IMG_3851.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--xEQjFsMgDY/UDvJrg1kTfI/AAAAAAAADkM/qsKcs44Jnv4/s1600/IMG_3857.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--xEQjFsMgDY/UDvJrg1kTfI/AAAAAAAADkM/qsKcs44Jnv4/s200/IMG_3857.PNG" width="190" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v_MyZp2hpO0/UDuw18OFGvI/AAAAAAAADgI/7vL0pfRc08k/s1600/Moonspinners0003_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v_MyZp2hpO0/UDuw18OFGvI/AAAAAAAADgI/7vL0pfRc08k/s200/Moonspinners0003_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qBl_1mi6AqQ/UDvIBr7MApI/AAAAAAAADjs/6rr5y89QCVs/s1600/P1040100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qBl_1mi6AqQ/UDvIBr7MApI/AAAAAAAADjs/6rr5y89QCVs/s200/P1040100.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ycbFVfEsqmU/UDuw3GGoKCI/AAAAAAAADgQ/eQTveaV-8BI/s1600/moonspinners7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ycbFVfEsqmU/UDuw3GGoKCI/AAAAAAAADgQ/eQTveaV-8BI/s200/moonspinners7.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jT2bFDVN1So/UDu8uGn7uqI/AAAAAAAADh0/XETOQzuBXFc/s1600/P1040123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jT2bFDVN1So/UDu8uGn7uqI/AAAAAAAADh0/XETOQzuBXFc/s200/P1040123.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8xpcxO5fDLg/UDuxGjOLE4I/AAAAAAAADgY/34icoaPPHK8/s1600/images-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8xpcxO5fDLg/UDuxGjOLE4I/AAAAAAAADgY/34icoaPPHK8/s1600/images-1.jpeg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--_JQqZWTn3M/UDu_75HAXxI/AAAAAAAADiU/kOEW9iHSGF8/s1600/IMG_0630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--_JQqZWTn3M/UDu_75HAXxI/AAAAAAAADiU/kOEW9iHSGF8/s200/IMG_0630.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-frZLFceqK5k/UDuxvtzXryI/AAAAAAAADgo/QPNviiSRB5Y/s1600/vlcsnap-22627-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-frZLFceqK5k/UDuxvtzXryI/AAAAAAAADgo/QPNviiSRB5Y/s200/vlcsnap-22627-1.png" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vqGPKJBs-QY/UDu9oT-dLiI/AAAAAAAADh8/-0_DFyC8o-Y/s1600/IMG_0503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vqGPKJBs-QY/UDu9oT-dLiI/AAAAAAAADh8/-0_DFyC8o-Y/s200/IMG_0503.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg4ufzrcVOI/UDu-yFfGLMI/AAAAAAAADiM/0CD7Oet_TQo/s1600/081111_NF_FS_TheMoonSpinners_feat3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg4ufzrcVOI/UDu-yFfGLMI/AAAAAAAADiM/0CD7Oet_TQo/s200/081111_NF_FS_TheMoonSpinners_feat3.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SJA_lFCIxhA/UDu-fNfiXSI/AAAAAAAADiE/vPAYbZpaQ5Y/s1600/P1040139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SJA_lFCIxhA/UDu-fNfiXSI/AAAAAAAADiE/vPAYbZpaQ5Y/s200/P1040139.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HE_OlxmukVQ/UDvA7mAAUHI/AAAAAAAADic/BICFzJPsme8/s1600/IMG_3858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HE_OlxmukVQ/UDvA7mAAUHI/AAAAAAAADic/BICFzJPsme8/s200/IMG_3858.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1iPkw4lNF1A/UDuxJ-niflI/AAAAAAAADgg/cVRp46YIs_4/s1600/vlcsnap-198101.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1iPkw4lNF1A/UDuxJ-niflI/AAAAAAAADgg/cVRp46YIs_4/s200/vlcsnap-198101.png" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ha2TSIOqRDA/UDvDiDGmYkI/AAAAAAAADi0/N7ffrZcrsPE/s1600/IMG_0506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ha2TSIOqRDA/UDvDiDGmYkI/AAAAAAAADi0/N7ffrZcrsPE/s200/IMG_0506.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-76883508712955458812012-08-27T10:21:00.002-07:002013-06-18T08:38:16.258-07:00The Shower is Dirty but the Ceiling is Bleached<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<!--StartFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Living alone can have its advantages. Sometimes it’s nice to be able to be 100% selfish, lazy, or goofy ridiculous without any witnesses. I certainly do not object to complete control of the bed, television, music, and how things are stored and decorated. It is also rather enjoyable to lie on the couch eating peanut butter and chocolate chips directly out of the jar while watching back-to-back Friends reruns in my sweatpants without any fear of being judged. But who am I trying to fool? I’d do those things no matter who’s around, and to be honest, not even Al Qaeda moving in with automatic weapons and a hijab could stop me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just as living alone has its “pros” list, it very much has an equally compelling “cons” list. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Case and point: 4:57am. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My alarm was blaring. It had been sounding its fury for a few minutes and I was just starting to enter stage three of my daily wake up ritual. Stage one is, “Why does my awesome dream have a siren sounding randomly out of the blue?” Stage two is flat out denial. As I am dragged into stage three, referred to as “coherence”, I have found I must immediately turn on a light or the television- anything to stimulate my brain and prevent the dreaded, “how did I fall asleep again?” In these instances I rely on the trusty inner panic of, “Oh sh**, I’m going to be late if I don’t get out of bed now!” My final fail safe is the slap of a paw across the face as my dog gets irritated by the alarm racket I’m soundly sleeping through. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On this particular morning, “coherence” quickly met “panic.” Not the panic of, “What time is it? Am I late again?” Rather it was a more sinister panic that gripped my heart like a vice and refused to let go. I had flailed to turn on a lamp, struggled to open my eyes, only to be rewarded with horror. The first sight my brain registered was enough to turn my stomach into an Olympic gymnastics vault…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A large ominous silhouette was spookily cast across my ceiling. I would have given anything for it to be Peter Pan’s missing shadow, but alas, this dark devil belonged to a giant evil bug. An intruder. A monster of the night. A stealthy stocker no doubt attempting to turn me into prey. This particular insect/beast of terror was a specimen I had never encountered before. It was a species with, in my estimate, about 18,000 legs. 18,000 too many I might add. Beyond the sheer horror of the leg count, I recall that it was the fiery reddish/orange/iridescent creepiness that launched me from my bed onto the floor. Great way to start the day, I know! Making matters worse, I smashed my knee into the corner of my nightstand on the way down. Word to the wise- when attempting to escape with your life, a painful knee injury never helps.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I cowered on the floor, it occurred to me that bugs inside are like evil b*tchy girls (or the stereotypical church women); they are the most dangerous when you turn your back on them and walk away. What to do? What to do? What to do? I determined that it was far too risky to try and kill it while it was still on my ceiling. So much could go wrong. It wasn’t hard to envision 80,000 little loathsome legs descending onto my face, and feasting on my eyeballs before crawling up my nose and taking over my brain. (I’ve never lacked for an imagination, but it was working against me here.) Another risk I could not afford to take was that the little demon would drop onto my bed and somehow become lost in the sheets, or worse- escape altogether.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided the best approach would be to spray it with pesticides. Poison, yes, such a helpful friend! Then, once the evil insect dropped from the ceiling I would beat any remaining life out of it with my weapon of choice- a nearby Nike running shoe. My dilemma was finding the bug spray before the villain retreated to attack another day, or worse- multiply. Realizing I couldn’t watch it and gather my arsenal at the same time, I quickly sprinted towards the garage as fast as my two legs could move me (by the way, it is totally unfair to be at a 17,998 leg disadvantage). Arriving in the garage in a huff, my heart sunk as I discovered my trusty stock of pesticides and bug killer was empty. What are the odds? I usually rank these items as top priority essentials on my shopping lists, far above optional luxuries like toilet paper and laundry soap. The only bottle I could find was KaBoom, a shower cleaning spray. I had zero interest in polishing the heinous creature up and sending it on its way with a shine, but I figured KaBoom had to be fairly toxic. My experiences in scrubbing with this chemical warhead in a spray bottle had always left my eyes burning for hours. It would have to do!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Desperately wishing I had paid better attention in Physics, I tried to determine how much liquid force would be required to catapult the glowing attack bug from my ceiling, safely past the bed, down onto the floor where I could instantly crush it to its final death. My fear of the 2 ½ inch monster dropping onto my bed almost left me paralyzed. This nightmare scenario was definitely keeping me from acting too hastily. What were my options? What was I dealing with?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Growing concerned that this unidentified creepy crawler might possess some sort of superpower (or Go-Go-Gadget talons), I thought it would be wise if I did a little research on my new-found foe. Grabbing my computer, I typed a description into the search window. This did not help matters. My search brought up a host of horrible identities and factoids, options worse than even my overactive mind could produce. Concluding that whoever said, “knowledge is power” was gravely mistaken, I decided to celebrate raw violence and return to my previous plan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Showing the nimbleness of a ninja warrior, I strategically aligned myself for the perfect shot: deftly placing one foot on my windowsill and the other on my footboard. Why all the effort you ask. Simple, I had to be high enough to ensure that the force of the spray would effectively project the repulsive rascal across my very off-limits bed and down to the ground. This was a key element to my freedom fighting plot. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sighting in my target, I pulled the trigger and began to spray the ceiling with a Rambo worthy battle cry. However, much to my dismay it darted behind my light fixture… The bastard! No worries, this only momentarily foiled my assault. I quickly repositioned to the top of my dresser and fired off a few more well-placed sprays. This had the desired result. I gleefully watched thousands of legs squirming in the air as it did a movie-quality slow motion fall from the heavens. A nano-second after it made contact with the ground, whatever remaining life it had was quickly (and brutally) extinguished with a swift blow. The last thing my vile assailant saw was a giant Swoosh descending down on it with the force of a sledge hammer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sure, my duvet cover is bleached, I’m most likely going blind, and that bug’s eerie purple insides are grounded into my (new) carpet- but hey… I’m wide awake.<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment--></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-31711474373330972742012-08-01T12:47:00.001-07:002012-10-06T01:15:55.624-07:00The Road Less Traveled...Beautiful Balos Beach<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Balos beach is a must see if you ever have the opportunity
to visit the Greek island of Crete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Balos is located on the northwest tip of Crete, along the Gramvoussa
peninsula.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many travel books and
websites discourage driving to Balos, and recommend taking one of the many small
boats or ferries to Balos/Gramvoussa instead (departing from Kissamos). Regardless, the drive is very doable if you are
patient and take your time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The road is
very steep, bumpy and unpaved the entire stretch once you pass the entrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> But </span>he coastline views along the way are
breathtaking!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hillsides are covered
in thyme, wildflowers, oregano, wooden beehive boxes, goats and no shortage of
dust! The drive takes around 30-40 minutes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o7zUqRYZIL8/UBmFN33ieSI/AAAAAAAADaU/YM2CphdpEL0/s1600/P1030825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o7zUqRYZIL8/UBmFN33ieSI/AAAAAAAADaU/YM2CphdpEL0/s400/P1030825.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3-2sWIkScb4/UBmFSXNz07I/AAAAAAAADac/C0W12Ry0MwI/s1600/P1030841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3-2sWIkScb4/UBmFSXNz07I/AAAAAAAADac/C0W12Ry0MwI/s400/P1030841.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft4M_Qdnur8/UBmFWVHdkdI/AAAAAAAADao/Mn9p0JrG6Aw/s1600/P1030843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft4M_Qdnur8/UBmFWVHdkdI/AAAAAAAADao/Mn9p0JrG6Aw/s400/P1030843.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-muAn88r5soc/UBmFa2ALMeI/AAAAAAAADaw/NL1H8XekuI8/s1600/P1030844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-muAn88r5soc/UBmFa2ALMeI/AAAAAAAADaw/NL1H8XekuI8/s400/P1030844.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The sign above totally lies!!! It is a solid 30-40 minute walk and it is not for the faint of heart or anyone with an injury or medical condition. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--mBlmX-3Vd0/UBmFnWOJtRI/AAAAAAAADbE/amQLurB3eKU/s1600/P1030852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--mBlmX-3Vd0/UBmFnWOJtRI/AAAAAAAADbE/amQLurB3eKU/s400/P1030852.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VXbgEbz2VQU/UBmFsSTINhI/AAAAAAAADbM/Nd37egGaJ2g/s1600/P1030853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VXbgEbz2VQU/UBmFsSTINhI/AAAAAAAADbM/Nd37egGaJ2g/s400/P1030853.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The view you have while hiking is awesome!! The lagoon is visible for about half of the hike and will beg you to take its picture time and time again as you walk.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3FPIqQwu0FA/UBmFxsUJeTI/AAAAAAAADbY/17wbZni2_jE/s1600/P1030860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3FPIqQwu0FA/UBmFxsUJeTI/AAAAAAAADbY/17wbZni2_jE/s400/P1030860.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vLNm5VSE2D4/UBmF8n451wI/AAAAAAAADbs/I_tI3VHfPr8/s1600/P1030864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vLNm5VSE2D4/UBmF8n451wI/AAAAAAAADbs/I_tI3VHfPr8/s400/P1030864.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zuvxxcjTZY0/UBmGBN_pu9I/AAAAAAAADb0/isdtikma6LQ/s1600/P1030880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zuvxxcjTZY0/UBmGBN_pu9I/AAAAAAAADb0/isdtikma6LQ/s400/P1030880.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7kjIA5XzU3w/UBmGFPuDC2I/AAAAAAAADcA/xVOBYEk2m8g/s1600/P1030884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7kjIA5XzU3w/UBmGFPuDC2I/AAAAAAAADcA/xVOBYEk2m8g/s400/P1030884.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VZjE7KQ6UrU/UBmGJqRHqoI/AAAAAAAADcI/AJlAlpds-AM/s1600/P1030889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VZjE7KQ6UrU/UBmGJqRHqoI/AAAAAAAADcI/AJlAlpds-AM/s400/P1030889.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P1vR2FKa6tE/UBmGPsZ2PoI/AAAAAAAADcQ/IsieO3WP7EI/s1600/P1030894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P1vR2FKa6tE/UBmGPsZ2PoI/AAAAAAAADcQ/IsieO3WP7EI/s400/P1030894.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fk6V0f3ntFk/UBmGXM3XZmI/AAAAAAAADcY/A-t1lEOqh64/s1600/P1030896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fk6V0f3ntFk/UBmGXM3XZmI/AAAAAAAADcY/A-t1lEOqh64/s400/P1030896.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x90BjOTG6dk/UBmGbWltkxI/AAAAAAAADcg/j6hpB95RxFE/s1600/P1030904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x90BjOTG6dk/UBmGbWltkxI/AAAAAAAADcg/j6hpB95RxFE/s400/P1030904.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Mq5VC5X7oY/UBmGhCNmt7I/AAAAAAAADco/CNoObD4m8w0/s1600/P1030907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Mq5VC5X7oY/UBmGhCNmt7I/AAAAAAAADco/CNoObD4m8w0/s400/P1030907.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-auZwn1D8bjQ/UBmGmFWJNJI/AAAAAAAADcw/7N-6OTec1VE/s1600/P1030912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-auZwn1D8bjQ/UBmGmFWJNJI/AAAAAAAADcw/7N-6OTec1VE/s400/P1030912.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpfBr3caxro/UBmGqD87ObI/AAAAAAAADc4/hHdCcs33m10/s1600/P1030919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpfBr3caxro/UBmGqD87ObI/AAAAAAAADc4/hHdCcs33m10/s400/P1030919.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56IqrekRsJE/UBmGy1mbndI/AAAAAAAADdA/ShVj8wva3ak/s1600/P1030931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56IqrekRsJE/UBmGy1mbndI/AAAAAAAADdA/ShVj8wva3ak/s400/P1030931.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-smnBcBLfLJs/UBmG3K9cKPI/AAAAAAAADdI/fYI1LsGijbY/s1600/P1030935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-smnBcBLfLJs/UBmG3K9cKPI/AAAAAAAADdI/fYI1LsGijbY/s400/P1030935.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fCza7XlNHgM/UBmHAhPgXaI/AAAAAAAADdY/DDwrIrDDHTE/s1600/P1030982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fCza7XlNHgM/UBmHAhPgXaI/AAAAAAAADdY/DDwrIrDDHTE/s400/P1030982.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Umbrellas and two chairs are 7 euros for the day. There is a snack bar and taverna on the beach but nothing else. The big ferries arrive mid afternoon and the crowds descend like herds of cattle. If you drive, you have the luxury of enjoying the beach for hours without anyone else around - fabulous!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l9X_XNfhzng/UBmHD467qJI/AAAAAAAADdg/UBheVYU9fHc/s1600/P1030998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l9X_XNfhzng/UBmHD467qJI/AAAAAAAADdg/UBheVYU9fHc/s400/P1030998.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BN6d1zt_eh0/UBmHIaIeOII/AAAAAAAADdo/MkjAWC_A80U/s1600/P1040006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BN6d1zt_eh0/UBmHIaIeOII/AAAAAAAADdo/MkjAWC_A80U/s400/P1040006.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tbDIbaJKyq4/UBmHTkiYt_I/AAAAAAAADd4/OMU8ux45Bws/s1600/P1040013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tbDIbaJKyq4/UBmHTkiYt_I/AAAAAAAADd4/OMU8ux45Bws/s400/P1040013.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AoeRgf2bjHo/UBmHYtTdEuI/AAAAAAAADeA/6yYx5aXb8dc/s1600/P1040015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AoeRgf2bjHo/UBmHYtTdEuI/AAAAAAAADeA/6yYx5aXb8dc/s400/P1040015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-73490214185477381542012-07-12T10:42:00.002-07:002012-07-12T11:28:51.821-07:00The Art of Deferment<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
My time management skills are funny- not funny as in haha
she’s f@&!%$ hilarious, but funny as in pathetically and predictably
ironic. I have suffered with the
ailment of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">procrastination</i>,
procrastination’s lover <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">easy distraction</i>,
and their bastard child <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">apathy </i>for
most of my life. It is not a chronic
condition. I’ve managed to be active and productive enough to stay out of the
gutter, maintain gainful employment, avoid living as a hermit, sustain a social
life, and sidestep the health problems that commonly plague stationary souls.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am confident though, that this recurrent infirmity of mine
is a slippery slope; territory in which one must tread carefully. For it will
not take me out like an acute illness, but will rob my life in a more subtle
way. Even now as I sit at the kitchen
table, staring out the window, admiring the beautiful day and gorgeous
landscape, I struggle to resist the tempting allure of procrastination.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today is a day off; accordingly my to-do list only consists
of about 5 hours worth of mandatory/must-get-it-done work. I am self aware
enough to note that all the things on this list are for the betterment of my own
life (trust me, I’m not suffering under the yoke of an evil dictator). Yet, there is plenty to do. I was up at 7am, spent some time reading and
reflecting, took the dog out to go potty, ingested some fruit and yogurt, and
then revisited my list. Confident that I
could easily get the items done in a few hours, I was already envisioning myself
wrapping up by noon and enjoying the rest of the day… No problem, this should
be a piece of cake (Mmmm speaking of cake, I could really go for a piece of
that delish B-52 cake from Beaches right now). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But like most tasks that don’t have monetary, emotional, or
tangible compensation attached to them, or a harsh deadline hovering over them,
I’m finding it difficult to stay on track. This is typically the case whenever
I am not mentally stimulated or emotionally invested in the specific
undertaking at hand. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For example, this is what has transpired since I first sat
down at my computer to work on my project:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Read all the
news of the day on MSN.com. The usual
suspects in the Middle East are not playing nice again, Tom Cruise and Katie
Holmes have reached a settlement with their divorce, the debris from the tsunami
in Japan is reaching the West Coast, and I submitted an entry for an online pet
photo contest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Cuddled with
Riley over coffee and read a chapter from Sleeping With the Enemy (a fascinating
book about the life of Coco Chanel).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. Ran out of
dental floss, decided to swish & gargle with hydrogen peroxide to ensure my
permanent retainer was clean. Then spent
the next 15 minutes on the internet researching to see if this actually works
(Snopes seems to think it is an effective mouth wash and method of cleaning a
toothbrush).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Went through
my list of Facebook friends and deleted people that annoy me. While on Facebook, I also spent a moment
oogling over the recent baby pictures posted by several of my friends (and I wondered
if they had a group sex date that I was unaware of… how did so many of them
conceive children at the same time?)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. Searched the
web for hostels in the Italian Rivera for my girls’ weekend with Hannah. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6. Feeling frustrated
with my lack of productivity, opted to go for a run to get focused. Took two steps out the door before concluding it was far too hot to run. Retreated back inside. Did a few reps with hand weights until it
interfered with my cookie eating (brought them back to the table with me for
future use).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7. Frustrated
with my lack of exercise, I researched workout classes in my area, filling my
calendar with the classes I will take each week for the next month… I’m
confident I have burned calories just planning these future workouts.<br />
8. All the
future exercise made me hungry, causing an overwhelming urge to plan what to
make for dinner (even though dinner out is already scheduled). Spent 20 minutes reading online recipes &
making a shopping list, end up armed with new information to improve my lamb
dish.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9. Decided I
was starving and made a snack, utilizing the remaining produce in my fridge. At
this point I put the cookies away, but not before shoving two more in mouth for
good measure. After the package is safely stowed away in the cupboard, I praise
myself for my healthy choice.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eUsw6UjZ7aY/T_8Lwyb_3pI/AAAAAAAADZo/th7EEGXQy3M/s1600/P1030729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eUsw6UjZ7aY/T_8Lwyb_3pI/AAAAAAAADZo/th7EEGXQy3M/s320/P1030729.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10. Enamored
with my beautiful and colorful snack, I had no choice but to go outside and
pose this perfect plate in the sunshine for a picture (see earlier blog posting
about my food porn problem).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11. Unable to
ignore the thought that wine would be a perfect accompaniment to my astounding
snack, I spent 10 minutes pondering whether or not 11:30am was too early to open a bottle of
Rosé.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
12. Shook the
visions of wine from my head and went back to my “to-do” list, fetching the
paperwork I needed to get started.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
13. Noticed that
after 3 hours of my ears ringing, the neighbor’s baby finally stopped
screaming. This baby is always screaming,
I wonder if maybe she has colic? I had colic as a baby. I contemplate if I would be overstepping my
bounds if I brought over some Colic Calm Gripe Water. Hhhmm, do they sell that
at the local pharmacy? I might have to order it online…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
14. Riley’s
relentless napping and lethargic mass of fur started to really annoy me (if I
can’t sleep, why should he?), so I retrieved his tennis ball. Dribbling it with
my hand like a basketball on the tile around his head until I irritate him to
the point where his giant head popped up, and he grabbed the ball with his
mouth. We then engaged in a few playful minutes
of “hoops”. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15. Disappointment
is ushered in upon returning to the refrigerator, as I’m confronted with the
new reality that my pepperoncini inventory is lacking. This hurdles me onto a
rabbit trail of thought. Why can’t one buy fresh pepperoncinis in the delis of
US grocery stores, but in European markets they are sold fresh similar to olives,
cheese and meat. Needing an answer, I Googled
my question and found it is because they are native to Italy and Greece, not the
US.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UYLzaJmnaHA/T_8MGPC6m0I/AAAAAAAADZw/hFCmTi1-q3c/s1600/P1030741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UYLzaJmnaHA/T_8MGPC6m0I/AAAAAAAADZw/hFCmTi1-q3c/s320/P1030741.jpg" width="220" /></a>16. Something came to my mind that I deemed as
humorous. I immediately had to email my dearest friend, Nicole, and share
the brilliance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
17. While
emailing Nicole, I noticed a mark on my freshly mopped kitchen floor. I couldn’t
think about anything else now, I had to go inspect, and re-clean. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
18. Realizing it
is now noon, I panic and sit back down at the computer, trying to get back on
track. However, I login and see a sad story in my news feed about a life
prematurely lost. Feeling emotional, I immediately message my brothers to tell
them I love them. I determine noon is
definitely not too early for wine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
19. Since I’m online
anyway, I should go to Nordstrom.com and see if they have my beloved TOMS wedges
back in stock. Tragically, along with my
lost luggage, my pair is still missing in action. Gosh, I sure miss those
shoes.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6377183301548790225" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
20. Heroically, I
begin to work on my task. Only to deviate seconds later to contemplate how much
time I have wasted. I wonder if I have adult ADHD? Hmmm… maybe I’ll write a blog post about
this topic? <br />
<br />
I just need
to get a cookie first.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377183301548790225.post-77396570129802713222012-07-08T10:26:00.000-07:002012-10-06T00:58:17.050-07:00Chania, Greece<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Chania
(Greek: Χανιά) lies along
the north coast of the island of Crete and is the second largest city (first is Heraklion). Even though Chania was heavily bombed during World War II, the
crumbling Venetian harbor, and Old Town (the heart of touristic traffic), are still
thought to be the most beautiful urban district on Crete. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Behind the harbor is
the area of Topanas. The area of Topanas is </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">very charming and
colorful, narrow alleys and old picturesque buildings, most of which have been restored
and are functioning as restaurants, shops, hotels, and bars. Chania also boast a lively nightlife and is the center of much activity. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I enjoy wandering in and out of the little alleys and </span>shops. There is a little juice stand where you pick out whatever fruits you want and they juice it for you... Yum!! Riley and I will sometimes just grab a table and people watch for hours. This is also a great place to get a pedicure (I like this place http://www.littleluxurydayspa.gr). Chania also has a great produce markets on the weekends.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JmjYGvAmkhg/T_m1wCkZxyI/AAAAAAAADVQ/xqjCIHXLTSo/s1600/IMG_0483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JmjYGvAmkhg/T_m1wCkZxyI/AAAAAAAADVQ/xqjCIHXLTSo/s400/IMG_0483.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IdbeWmCDkYQ/T_m11izDwXI/AAAAAAAADVY/jtMPh-fMyvM/s1600/IMG_0491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IdbeWmCDkYQ/T_m11izDwXI/AAAAAAAADVY/jtMPh-fMyvM/s400/IMG_0491.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOjo583yUYw/T_m2CTHWU2I/AAAAAAAADVw/SdP2Fo8Sinw/s1600/IMG_1909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOjo583yUYw/T_m2CTHWU2I/AAAAAAAADVw/SdP2Fo8Sinw/s400/IMG_1909.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-50zxyMnDEFM/T_m1-iaCDkI/AAAAAAAADVo/A1U1oyBdvxw/s1600/IMG_1907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-50zxyMnDEFM/T_m1-iaCDkI/AAAAAAAADVo/A1U1oyBdvxw/s400/IMG_1907.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvkvoRVskCw/T_m8rkdMUyI/AAAAAAAADXw/CPyMxmdgWbM/s1600/P1030035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvkvoRVskCw/T_m8rkdMUyI/AAAAAAAADXw/CPyMxmdgWbM/s400/P1030035.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6m7zDv86fb8/T_m96FynIyI/AAAAAAAADZE/Gue0OY1ioQw/s1600/P1030309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6m7zDv86fb8/T_m96FynIyI/AAAAAAAADZE/Gue0OY1ioQw/s400/P1030309.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMMy4DtM0UQ/T_m17PxIWgI/AAAAAAAADVg/NwzwznDSAyw/s1600/IMG_0522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMMy4DtM0UQ/T_m17PxIWgI/AAAAAAAADVg/NwzwznDSAyw/s400/IMG_0522.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1sUdjBwS31w/T_m2LgmTE1I/AAAAAAAADWE/E4iiLWNsTRE/s1600/IMG_3180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1sUdjBwS31w/T_m2LgmTE1I/AAAAAAAADWE/E4iiLWNsTRE/s400/IMG_3180.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P73ZtXID19Y/T_m2HC4pk_I/AAAAAAAADV8/K4KzM76iO8s/s1600/IMG_3134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P73ZtXID19Y/T_m2HC4pk_I/AAAAAAAADV8/K4KzM76iO8s/s400/IMG_3134.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dYkpXqQjf30/T_m2U019n2I/AAAAAAAADWU/XruMhWEUZrM/s1600/IMG_3187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dYkpXqQjf30/T_m2U019n2I/AAAAAAAADWU/XruMhWEUZrM/s400/IMG_3187.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-50tvaZfQFCE/T_m2QOgojXI/AAAAAAAADWM/yqrG7SjmkeE/s1600/IMG_3184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-50tvaZfQFCE/T_m2QOgojXI/AAAAAAAADWM/yqrG7SjmkeE/s400/IMG_3184.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0hhGAVT5uvE/T_m4OQE2pVI/AAAAAAAADXQ/BHLLmvyZ0g4/s1600/IMG_3298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0hhGAVT5uvE/T_m4OQE2pVI/AAAAAAAADXQ/BHLLmvyZ0g4/s400/IMG_3298.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Sg56pz5xWc/T_m2ZTiTGCI/AAAAAAAADWk/bH4yJtYd_Ts/s1600/IMG_3188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Sg56pz5xWc/T_m2ZTiTGCI/AAAAAAAADWk/bH4yJtYd_Ts/s400/IMG_3188.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zyIyzUDFkM4/T_m820f_WFI/AAAAAAAADX4/Hh8nQYymmuk/s1600/P1030037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zyIyzUDFkM4/T_m820f_WFI/AAAAAAAADX4/Hh8nQYymmuk/s400/P1030037.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UvMjTBVNh2E/T_m896eI05I/AAAAAAAADYA/Z9mJvZY9siE/s1600/P1030042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9aoECySSwCw/T_m9IIPmdxI/AAAAAAAADYM/FQ0SyMLIuPU/s1600/P1030043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9aoECySSwCw/T_m9IIPmdxI/AAAAAAAADYM/FQ0SyMLIuPU/s400/P1030043.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nrelTC_PFS0/T_m3-M4Jy1I/AAAAAAAADW8/vK_uEoBUQAg/s1600/IMG_3294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nrelTC_PFS0/T_m3-M4Jy1I/AAAAAAAADW8/vK_uEoBUQAg/s400/IMG_3294.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jDToW9oobnw/T_m4I656esI/AAAAAAAADXI/YJ3r8p-ORk8/s1600/IMG_3296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bFe0TunInfM/T_m9RwrlC0I/AAAAAAAADYU/JRzVX69CTmw/s400/P1030046.jpg" width="300" /> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UvMjTBVNh2E/T_m896eI05I/AAAAAAAADYA/Z9mJvZY9siE/s400/P1030042.jpg" width="300" /></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uqv1gkGr0wQ/T_m9ZOTQ1PI/AAAAAAAADYc/5t2Gmmw2WCA/s1600/P1030047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uqv1gkGr0wQ/T_m9ZOTQ1PI/AAAAAAAADYc/5t2Gmmw2WCA/s400/P1030047.jpg" width="300" /></a> <img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hKrh1V_96z4/T_m7AvIGT6I/AAAAAAAADXc/7D2vC9DqL-k/s400/IMG_3299.jpg" width="300" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BXyHj1a-V_c/T_nUTUQ-zxI/AAAAAAAADZU/9AKO4bOaDOA/s400/IMG_3305.jpg" width="300" /> <img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AMTTJalpmbY/T_m9pI6A5iI/AAAAAAAADYw/xIB5c-C6J34/s400/P1030302.jpg" width="300" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5WUaaMYe2PA/T_m9guPwBaI/AAAAAAAADYo/mWufuTVDgMo/s1600/P1030301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5WUaaMYe2PA/T_m9guPwBaI/AAAAAAAADYo/mWufuTVDgMo/s400/P1030301.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yAT5Q8K0VB0/UG_gVQLIBkI/AAAAAAAAEMo/8YT8SXM0cJg/s1600/IMG_2122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yAT5Q8K0VB0/UG_gVQLIBkI/AAAAAAAAEMo/8YT8SXM0cJg/s320/IMG_2122.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d-sVgW_pNEo/UG_gfFSMQiI/AAAAAAAAEMw/kKPnq6Ic56c/s1600/IMG_2130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d-sVgW_pNEo/UG_gfFSMQiI/AAAAAAAAEMw/kKPnq6Ic56c/s320/IMG_2130.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6mBatrhatM8/UG_gj1wCAqI/AAAAAAAAEM4/A1fARthifCw/s1600/IMG_3438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6mBatrhatM8/UG_gj1wCAqI/AAAAAAAAEM4/A1fARthifCw/s320/IMG_3438.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRYebYHDkpc/UG_goX19j7I/AAAAAAAAENA/FUoHDc6SwsU/s1600/IMG_3448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRYebYHDkpc/UG_goX19j7I/AAAAAAAAENA/FUoHDc6SwsU/s320/IMG_3448.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Rachellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06156419772926363374noreply@blogger.com0