Once Upon A Time

When you were little, did you ever wish that you were a princess? I don't mean a spoiled-rotten little brat, I mean a real princess. You know, the kind with ladies in waiting, brave knights on horseback and a splendid castle?...That kind of princess?

While you may be modest, I'm quite certain your answer is yes. And I have proof! When given the chance to free write, many of the little girls in my class write fabulous tales of the lives of beautiful princesses and handsome princes, all beginning with "Once Upon a Time." You know it's true! My sister and I coveted the tall cone-shaped pink princess hats with the streaming gauze oozing from their peaks, something to the like of this...
Anyway, I'm getting sidetracked. If this is your bag, then today's your lucky day. Cookie is featuring vacations at castle hotels, now you can live out your childhood dream of waltzing around a luxurious castle like this one, Ashford Castle in Ireland. With travel widening it's horizons, castle stays are becoming ever popular and accessible throughout Europe. It sounds like quite the vacation, especially if you have a family. Plenty of room to explore inside and out, seeing as a castle's vast estate is part of the appeal. Prices are comparable to regional hotels, and in many places kids under 5 stay free. And, if you're lucky, they might just let you wear your lovely pink princess hat around...

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Super

1. Mailed my sister's birthday gift on time!

2. Just received my tax return check!

3. Uploaded my pictures for my photography club in time for the deadline!

4. Didn't have to bring any papers home to correct tonight!

5. Bachelor Finale on tonight!

It's turning out to be a super day!

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Change of Seasons

With just one more week until daylight savings time, it's finally starting to feel like Spring. For me, the hardest part of winter is waking and driving to work when it's pitch black, and leaving work to go home when it's pitch black. There's something about the light, the sun setting that much later that is simply blissful.

Granted, I am fortunate to have a few moments during the day (a.k.a. recess) when I have an opportunity to get outside and see the sun (if it is indeed shining). But those cold, dark mornings and evenings definitely contribute to my lower energy levels. Cheers to the almost-beginning of a new season, 19 days to go!

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Happy Birthday Mom!

Today is my mom's birthday. While I didn't get to spend the day with her (since she is on a weekend ski trip), I did send her happy birthday wishes.

I think this Banana Split Cake would be perfect for my mom - always the fan of the Dairy Queen banana split. Happy Birthday Mom!

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Fabulous Friday

This weekend, I'm going to see country crooner Brad Paisley in concert, out to brunch with a friend, and hopefully penciling in some good shopping...It has been way too long since I've treated myself to some new clothes! Have a fabulous Friday my friends!

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Send Me An Accordion

I love these accordion cards! I've always been a big fan of holiday cards. My mom has gotten in the habit of putting aside the collection of holiday cards our family receives for me to view when I come home to visit.

I think this accordion style is a fantastic option for a new baby or a wedding, when you have so many pictures you want to share! This is a simple and tasteful way to celebrate your life with friends and family. I find this a great alternative to simply forwarding an online album, which while efficient, is often impersonal.

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Lent

I'm a product of 8+ years of Catholic school. As such, I've attended many an Ash Wednesday mass in my day, although since I graduated college, I've been a bad church-goer and missed this middle of the week mass, and the accompanying ashes on the forehead.

This year, I've been contemplating what to give up for the 40 days of Lent. Here's what I've been considering...
1. Coffee. Quite a challenge, too tough I think. As an elementary school teacher, I truly it to be my perkiest self so early in the morning.
2. Chocolate. I'm a chocoholic. I love chocolate, especially dark chocolate. In the form of candy bars, cookies, hot cocoa, basically anything rich I can devour, I will indulge.
3. Dining out. A fast way to save a LOT of money...but it would really inter with my social calendar.

Thus, I've decided to absolve from take out, fast food, and anything related. Usually once or twice a week I order thai food or pho, it's cheap, easy, and quite convenient since there are like 5 great places within a 5 block radius of my apartment. I'm hoping this will contribute to my healthy living plan - which supports my half marathon training schedule. Let the 40 days begin!

image/cookingwithfriendsclub