tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1194499911798199452024-02-21T08:45:41.893-08:00Schinag-O-BlogShannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.comBlogger176125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-78016359428247349392016-12-17T21:15:00.003-08:002016-12-17T21:15:46.633-08:00Santa at the Zoo: Part 2Let's continue our journey!<br />
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While Santa's elves were setting up another bear's presents, we all went with Santa to see him deliver gifts to the wallabies. The wallabies were feeling a bit stand-offish, but it was still fun. In fact, the kids were allowed to help a little bit, by feeding the wallabies treats from their presents. There was a big crowd, so I apologize for the quality of the pictures.<br />
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Then it was on to a young bear: Augustus! Augustus is only four years old and, of course, much more spry than poor, elderly Shash. He was so excited about his gifts that he didn't know where to start!</div>
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Augustus' presents were spread out so he'd have to work harder to get them.</div>
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You can see he was in a hurry to see what Santa brought him:</div>
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Apparently sticking your head in a box and just eating is the bear way of chowing down. It reminded me of Yogi Bear eating from his pick-i-nick baskets.</div>
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Next we headed to the <a href="http://www.heritageparkzoo.org/index.php/our-animals/small-mammals" target="_blank">coatimundis</a>, which was hilarious once Santa told us that their packages were filled with live cockroaches, and all of the adults sprang back while the kids crowded closer. Ha!</div>
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"Mmm, yummy! Delicious, scrambly cockroaches! I hear them in there..."</div>
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"Come out, come out, wherever you aaarrreee!"</div>
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Nom nom nom nom nom...</div>
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On to the lemurs! Remember King Julian from "Madagascar"? Not the sharpest tool in the shed. He could have been the king of the lemurs here at HPZ. They are also not the sharpest tools in the shed. In fact, I'm not sure they made it to the shed at all. They just could not figure out what was going on, no matter how much Santa helped them. It was hysterical and pitiful all at the same time!</div>
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Santa actually poked holes in the boxes to help the lemurs out. Yeahhhhhhh, it didn't help.</div>
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"Huh. This is box?"</div>
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"Hey! Come see this thing. What you think?"</div>
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Finally, Santa took pity and actually <i>opened the box.</i> It still didn't really help for quite a while.</div>
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"Look! A box! Huh."</div>
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"<i>Hey!</i> Box is open! Anything in there? Helloooooo!"</div>
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I tried to wait and watch until they figured it out, but eventually left. Because, well, it was just sad.</div>
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Plus, we were heading to <a href="http://www.heritageparkzoo.org/index.php/our-animals/large-mammals" target="_blank">Cassie the Tiger</a>! This was a very dramatic gift-giving. Santa actually climbed to the roof area over her lair and flung the presents down from there!</div>
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I can't imagine any food was edible after Cassie was done with those boxes. After Santa flung down a present, she pounced on it <i>and destroyed it</i>. I mean, it was flattened and ripped to shreds. </div>
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I tried to get video, but it was all so fast!</div>
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Then...</div>
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No. Just...no.</div>
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And those were the highlights! It's one of the most fun Christmas things I've done, and I think it's a brilliant program for HPZ to do!</div>
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Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-53653053202614744372016-12-14T15:43:00.002-08:002016-12-14T15:43:38.037-08:00Fashion Show: Take 2Kola went to visit Santa in her stylish elf suit. I couldn't get her hat on her, so I'll update this post when I torture her by dressing her up again.<br />
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The rabbits, Jack and Ralph, have so far managed to avoid this fashion show. But don't worry, they're up next. They can't avoid it.</div>
<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-46139130651917530672016-12-14T15:41:00.001-08:002016-12-14T15:41:44.219-08:00Santa at the Zoo, Part 1Prescott Valley, AZ, has a little zoo that consists of various, mostly-local animals that cannot survive on their own in the wild. It's called the <a href="http://www.heritageparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Heritage Park Zoo</a>, and it's very similar to the <a href="http://www.maine.gov/ifw/education/wildlifepark/" target="_blank">Maine Wildlife Park</a> in Gray.<br />
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Every year, Santa visits the Heritage Park Zoo to deliver gifts to the animals! I went this year, because who can resist <i>that</i>?<br />
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Earlier in the day, kids were invited to come and decorate the gift boxes the animals were receiving. Then, instead of a sleigh, Santa bopped around the zoo in a decorated golf cart to hand out the gifts.<br />
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When I first arrived, Santa was delivering a delicious box of fruit to Quilber, the porcupine. Poor Quilber was in the middle of a nap and didn't really feel like getting up, but he was coaxed up to at least make a showing. Santa helped by opening the box for him. (I had a hard time getting a good shot because of the crowd. Sorry.)</div>
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Next, it was on to Shash the black bear. Shash is very old: 23 years! He's been at HPZ since he was three months old, when his mother was shot by a hunter. The amazing thing is that Shash has had cancer for over 3 years, but you can barely tell.</div>
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Santa's helpers delivered Shash's gifts, as Santa is not qualified to handle a black bear. But Shash <i>loved</i> his treats. One box had meat, and the other two had fruits and veggies. Shash's medicine gets hidden in his food. One of the HPZ employees was thrilled to see him eat an avocado, since his medicine was injected into it.</div>
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Shash, like Quilber, was less than thrilled about waking up. Until he smelled his gifts, that is.</div>
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Here are a couple of little movies:</div>
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Okay! More tomorrow. Stay tuned.</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-57634561270766448942016-12-09T19:51:00.003-08:002016-12-09T19:51:43.495-08:00Let the Fashion Show Begin...Over the years, it seems I've collected a few holiday costumes for my critters. Add to those the costumes my Mom has for her dog, and we have enough for a fashion show for the rest of the month!<br />
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First up is Kola in a snowman hat made for a teddy bear. Sadly, I couldn't strap the little carrot nose on her, so you'll have to just pretend.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_vN0f-TeKMRse3dJHZ33C6FiFDR2K1_MAXV8nfkNceYZWwMXGSh3NHTFAFExUKoxYJcTl-iY9LW8hYU4EcwnI46RDGCSdb-moPxsrTZ-f_0OozWTc2XbXutFOjaxjfsa7K1EeWyNmak/s1600/IMG_1594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_vN0f-TeKMRse3dJHZ33C6FiFDR2K1_MAXV8nfkNceYZWwMXGSh3NHTFAFExUKoxYJcTl-iY9LW8hYU4EcwnI46RDGCSdb-moPxsrTZ-f_0OozWTc2XbXutFOjaxjfsa7K1EeWyNmak/s320/IMG_1594.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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As you can tell, she is <i>really</i> thrilled to be participating in this fashion show.</div>
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She'd better get used to it. Tomorrow I am dressing her up as an elf and taking her for pictures with Santa at Petsmart. (Stay tuned!)</div>
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Next up is my Mom's chihuahua, Mac, in a traditional Santa costume.</div>
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Doesn't he look dapper? I don't think he minds this because it helps keep him warm. He started getting cold in September, and will now be freezing until July. Even his ears shiver.</div>
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P.S. He and Kola are best friends. Kola calls him from her cage, and he runs to the den to see her! He loves to groom her. We make him stop once Kola is dripping with dog saliva.</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-85121337543204446892016-12-03T19:07:00.000-08:002016-12-03T19:07:05.292-08:00I'm So (Not) Healthy!Ever since I got rabbits and a guinea pig, my grocery shopping is, well, not what it appears to be. I have terrible eating habits and, of course, the critters eat very healthily. I was shopping this past year when I realized the bag I was carrying was a perfect example.<br />
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So, here is the grocery bag:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo9kxAIEStHk0SDzQ6HWTZOyG9byK33KXikHlm_S7rt5JEGR99M9_isoKGO8GkT1BKhIk8D0ByQHJxwcJNKpnImdfE_8qLTMkV4fxUfA0B7CkOrCnGcmD5qw-iuvdMwxqqUaYyVGEWQWo/s1600/IMG_1486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo9kxAIEStHk0SDzQ6HWTZOyG9byK33KXikHlm_S7rt5JEGR99M9_isoKGO8GkT1BKhIk8D0ByQHJxwcJNKpnImdfE_8qLTMkV4fxUfA0B7CkOrCnGcmD5qw-iuvdMwxqqUaYyVGEWQWo/s320/IMG_1486.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Wow! Look how healthy I am! Produce galore!</div>
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However, upon further inspection, here are the groceries for the critters:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvWGbGDdugS29y0wyd5a5B9JSBa3Q8DA-iIEIIi87nZA2PUsCNgxfSs2x5LDL8ZLruVDm_2rGIs8sk0GX9WjYrNtAXPrd7ANCqf0nXjATE15M8ENQNImztMDPCs2frx28E7VliziepCTQ/s1600/IMG_1487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvWGbGDdugS29y0wyd5a5B9JSBa3Q8DA-iIEIIi87nZA2PUsCNgxfSs2x5LDL8ZLruVDm_2rGIs8sk0GX9WjYrNtAXPrd7ANCqf0nXjATE15M8ENQNImztMDPCs2frx28E7VliziepCTQ/s320/IMG_1487.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And here are the groceries for me:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gIJggH-oQ1-jh8ZmkzW5L_qqO2O2uKXRpIqeQPHG39olpDHQl-Sa6ENOWJ-1TYbfHWUTRvBTCff9KLPkGuvO3FgsrLbIwBoGJQK1A2OLbA70ZmOnd3QsXct9bN6HdisfKjLsk1toWHs/s1600/IMG_1489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gIJggH-oQ1-jh8ZmkzW5L_qqO2O2uKXRpIqeQPHG39olpDHQl-Sa6ENOWJ-1TYbfHWUTRvBTCff9KLPkGuvO3FgsrLbIwBoGJQK1A2OLbA70ZmOnd3QsXct9bN6HdisfKjLsk1toWHs/s320/IMG_1489.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yup. Read and green lettuce, carrots, carrot tops, bananas, and various other produce for Jack, Ralph and Kola.</div>
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Then grated cheese, peanuts, ice cram Dove bars, eggs and booze, for me. And lest you think, "Well, at least she got eggs." Let me clarify that those are for cookie dough.</div>
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The good news is that as long as I put my groceries on the bottom of the bag, I <i>appear</i> to be one of the healthiest individuals ever.</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-88777873288821684042016-11-30T16:07:00.000-08:002016-11-30T16:07:08.854-08:00Where Am I? Oh, Yeah. Arizona.I had what was, to me, a hilarious conversation today.<br />
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My Mom's neighbor, George, came out to get his mail while my Mom and I were hanging Christmas lights. The three of us got to talking. My Mom mentioned that my rabbits LOVE going outside every day. (A blog post on them soon.)<br />
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George replied that he hoped I wasn't putting them out in the morning, since when George takes his morning walk he's been seeing coyotes, and he's worried about coyotes smelling -- and eating -- my bunnies.<br />
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Well, it turns out that George TAKES HIS WALK AT 4:30 AM. Those of you who know me at all know that 4:30am is not a time when I'm up, unless I haven't gone to sleep yet. No one in my family gets up anywhere near that time. It's a genetic thing, I think. That's why getting up at 5:45am to go to work in Maine nearly killed me. So yeah, my bunnies aren't going out at 4:30am. More like noon.<br />
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So that was hysterical part number 1.<br />
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My Mom said that she really wished George would go for his walk a little later, since it's still dark (because it's <i>nighttime, NOT morning</i>) and because of the coyotes. That's when George said, "Oh, don't worry. I take my gun."<br />
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This was the Best. Response. Ever. I suddenly remembered that I live in Arizona. Mainers are big hunters, but you have to realize that here, we <i>live in the suburbs</i>.<br />
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Later my Mom told me that, if she ever says she's going for a walk before bed (like I said, we do <i>not</i> go to bed early or wake up early), to remind her that it's dark and George is armed out there.Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-26947980487076141992016-11-28T19:40:00.002-08:002016-11-28T19:40:59.414-08:00A Little Island with Big FunOne place I loved in Maine was <a href="http://peaksislandmaine.net/Peaks.shtml" target="_blank">Peaks Island</a>. Peaks Island is an island (shocker) off the coast of Portland, only a 15-minute ferry ride away.<br />
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Here's the view of Portland from Peaks Island:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKfCq6R6f0hV53e8S__4HG33fxUskEMsgFUNK0HEp-EavUo37frFQZoZknZiz8upDmaPrOaJz5T6t-SBkwgE-8ngqG03IlQyCJuPi4N9_3nFEM2cjaGwehL9lsX-S3SEWShX8LTE_5r18/s1600/IMG_1314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKfCq6R6f0hV53e8S__4HG33fxUskEMsgFUNK0HEp-EavUo37frFQZoZknZiz8upDmaPrOaJz5T6t-SBkwgE-8ngqG03IlQyCJuPi4N9_3nFEM2cjaGwehL9lsX-S3SEWShX8LTE_5r18/s320/IMG_1314.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Peaks Island is fascinating because, like many towns in Maine, there is a year-round population and a summer population. Peaks Island has one of the most dramatic differences that I know of: between 800-900 year-round residents, and triple to quadruple that in the summer.<br />
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I was introduced to Peaks Island by two friends, Jessica and Devin, and started taking every out-of-town visitor there.<br />
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The best thing is to bike around the island. It's only 4 miles. I took my Dad and Stepmom there when they came to visit:<br />
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One of the shores is super rocky...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16vh7SkkphLHWB5Z4W_jUWVHeQTDz9gsZTtcJPWKLTzT0UKuNa5DojQcKp0wg_OZomoGv58Z3NagZ__LQAvMHzA4yeEh0S2L0Kz08eeYOVIl4KsfVSnadNLCWCHrCxV6YwgNbTe6wATI/s1600/IMG_1291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16vh7SkkphLHWB5Z4W_jUWVHeQTDz9gsZTtcJPWKLTzT0UKuNa5DojQcKp0wg_OZomoGv58Z3NagZ__LQAvMHzA4yeEh0S2L0Kz08eeYOVIl4KsfVSnadNLCWCHrCxV6YwgNbTe6wATI/s320/IMG_1291.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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...and people build the most amazing cairns there. My friends and I had to join in, of course:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0JL9KL-yzkNNyZFsICtlKwqewvmv-AnBNWyhqcJXNoaT_oy3KhoXlllBEIewasrIRyG6io-EPADBaEPsICJ4gfrG7cmfCTpiV6bM9aGUHm6K8ZhyWc5xmv-DEy-W3ZuwSmbwFYkPVTg/s1600/IMG_1288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0JL9KL-yzkNNyZFsICtlKwqewvmv-AnBNWyhqcJXNoaT_oy3KhoXlllBEIewasrIRyG6io-EPADBaEPsICJ4gfrG7cmfCTpiV6bM9aGUHm6K8ZhyWc5xmv-DEy-W3ZuwSmbwFYkPVTg/s320/IMG_1288.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My oh-so-snazzy design:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3urK0034WEVajAyiAMh3hgBc0ZvF86mZCXWCmtZRMOMQCTLnYOU4xXq7KCPuHgNgtgP5bL-qPBpPjEnOzeW9YyixvaRE2I_rCJlS4fL7Odb7rD-8lZMfeR00nEhFV__thNO6SoA4jmmQ/s1600/IMG_1289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3urK0034WEVajAyiAMh3hgBc0ZvF86mZCXWCmtZRMOMQCTLnYOU4xXq7KCPuHgNgtgP5bL-qPBpPjEnOzeW9YyixvaRE2I_rCJlS4fL7Odb7rD-8lZMfeR00nEhFV__thNO6SoA4jmmQ/s320/IMG_1289.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Jessica's design, complete with berry decor. She is an artist:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ArV3UXCO8nvsovV_McrFHa5GNpVKg2aXnMKta5Ex_QzFkFsteTjOcSTfPbVkPbiPrXxz4_HeK1tVtPP2R9-WZx4LtwTCsVGtnxfkRP6AYaddKxi4RKyZOZnzzEaI4StcA5_NjLhoHFc/s1600/IMG_1295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ArV3UXCO8nvsovV_McrFHa5GNpVKg2aXnMKta5Ex_QzFkFsteTjOcSTfPbVkPbiPrXxz4_HeK1tVtPP2R9-WZx4LtwTCsVGtnxfkRP6AYaddKxi4RKyZOZnzzEaI4StcA5_NjLhoHFc/s320/IMG_1295.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Me peering through an actual arch that I built:</div>
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Even my Dad built one:</div>
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My Stepmom, Sue, chose to pose with hers:</div>
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Near the ferry landing is a gorgeous hotel with a delicious restaurant named, creatively, The Inn at Peaks Island:</div>
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Anyway, a person or family can easily spend the day there. There are beaches, too. I highly recommend it!</div>
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I may add to this post later if I find more pictures.</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-15904919790285657982016-11-26T14:43:00.000-08:002016-11-26T14:43:44.827-08:00Happy Halloween!My sister and brother-in-law opened their own store this past April: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Blackboxgamingllc/" target="_blank">Black Box Gaming</a>. It's a retro video game store, and it's done incredibly well! I didn't really know that retro gaming was a thing, but it's <i>really</i> a <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_983969690"></span>thing<span id="goog_983969691"></span></a>.<br />
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Every Saturday night they have tournaments with a different game and system. When I first moved here, in honor of me and my old age they did an Atari tournament. I have lost my skills (and believe you me, I was SKILLED), but my sister came in second!<br />
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Anyway, in order to raise their profile, they have started doing a few community events, and one was a Halloween event in the parking lot of a bowling alley.<br />
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My brother-in-law owns a Jurassic Park Jeep. We took that, and I dressed up as a Jurassic Park safari guide. Kevin even played the soundtrack to the movie while kids visited us to trick-or-treat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUN1evZXgdGaM3sFs0BwhEpgRkOAxoPWOxtWn5hyphenhyphenWYiZ_urOaCrHh4WbonwP6CtKq9Yy01MTcPfXuTCIIf4DrnCI_bjCI1PCY7yrJaRLyq3UwU4Ypz9cQb3e15MiswFSDj21XtFDGsge8/s1600/20161022_144011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUN1evZXgdGaM3sFs0BwhEpgRkOAxoPWOxtWn5hyphenhyphenWYiZ_urOaCrHh4WbonwP6CtKq9Yy01MTcPfXuTCIIf4DrnCI_bjCI1PCY7yrJaRLyq3UwU4Ypz9cQb3e15MiswFSDj21XtFDGsge8/s320/20161022_144011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Everyone loved it! And even better, a bunch of kids came as dinosaurs, so we took pictures of them with the Jeep. I'll have to get those pictures from Kevin and post them here. I'll update when I get them!</div>
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Also, see that horse trailer in the background? It had ponies in it, and the ponies ended up being next to us in the parking lot. Four hours of ponies! It was fantastic!</div>
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Next Black Box Gaming holiday event is the Prescott Valley Christmas Parade. Kevin and Allyson own a golf cart, and they're decorating it and being in the parade! I'll post pictures after it happens.</div>
<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-13143624702228034272016-11-23T18:55:00.001-08:002016-11-23T18:55:50.120-08:00To Infinity and Beyond! (And Presque Isle)Maine is chock full of fun and weird and cool things to see and do. I found out about the <a href="http://pages.umpi.edu/nmms/solar/index.htm" target="_blank">Maine Solar System Model</a>, built by the people of Aroostook County and led by the University of Maine -- Presque Isle. The sun and our solar system's planets are spaced to scale along Route 1 from Houlton to Presque Isle.<br />
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Luckily, I've headed up to Presque Isle and the surrounding areas a few times and have made it a point to find as many of the planets as I could. There are still a couple missing, but they're hard to find! I thought I'd share them with you. And ask you to keep an eye out for the ones I've missed!<br />
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First, Pluto* is found at the Houlton Welcome Center, where a lovely woman showed me to the planet and gave me a <i>very</i> helpful brochure.<br />
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Not only are the planets included, but their moons, too. See that Pluto's moon Charon is below.</div>
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Next up: Neptune!</div>
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And now, your anus. Hahahahahaha, snort! Sorry -- a bit of my 3rd grader coming out. I mean to say: Uranus.</div>
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On to: Saturn, with moon Titan!</div>
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Note Titan hangin' out to the left:</div>
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Let's continue to Jupiter and his four moons:</div>
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And Mars. It's much easier to get to this Mars than the real one. Now, do you see how <i>tiny</i> Mars is? I'm telling you, some of these planets were <i>really</i> hard to find, especially as I was trying to drive.</div>
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And now, our Home Planet and the best moon in the universe!</div>
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It's hard to see the moon, but it's to the right of Earth. Look at the pole coming out of the snow. The actual moon is hidden by the background trees. I guess I'm not the best photographer.</div>
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And now Venus:</div>
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And finally, little, bitty Mercury:</div>
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Now here's where it gets embarrassing. The sun is on the UMPI campus. After risking life and limb, driving while looking for planets (Can you imagine if the police/sheriff had pulled me over for what they thought was Driving While Impaired, only to find out I was trying to spy Route 1 planets? That would have been really embarrassing. I wonder if it's happened before.) and parking on shoulders and in ditches to get out and take pictures in the winter while semis blew by, <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I forgot to go to UMPI to take a picture of the sun.</u> How idiotic.</div>
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And so, my Mainer friends -- especially those who live in The County -- I am <i>begging</i> you to stop in at Folsom Hall on the UMPI campus next time you are up Presque Isle way and take pictures for me. Please send me the pictures, I'll add them to this blog post, and I'll praise you to the heavens for helping me out. Thanks!</div>
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*You may have noticed that I lump Pluto in with the planets. Despite science, this whole "dwarf planet" stuff is garbage. I spent WAY too many years in elementary school learning about the solar system and planets to change now. It's kind of like how grammar has changed so that it is now correct to NOT place a comma after the penultimate item in a list. Baloney. I had to work on grammar through high school and beyond. I'm not changing now. Hm. It appears I may be getting a bit set in my ways and knowledge in my old age.</div>
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Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-37261729582856662022016-11-22T18:02:00.000-08:002016-11-22T18:02:20.418-08:00Sometimes a Hard Hat Is NOT just a Hard HatAs much as I miss Maine, Arizona has some equally fantastic and hilarious culture. For example, as I was waiting at a stoplight recently, I saw this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8w4It2HX0MhCj7fmSb_6WcCSY-BEJvWDcONW6tbllyF04RUFa2RQsPaZQUtuXM7Et6gr7M-dj0ta2IHbhJM879_Oeo2lAgvom1lyOu4bd7soCLUrJBJOQhsQkOaqWrDzGm9BTk_vZnIg/s1600/20161109_102442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8w4It2HX0MhCj7fmSb_6WcCSY-BEJvWDcONW6tbllyF04RUFa2RQsPaZQUtuXM7Et6gr7M-dj0ta2IHbhJM879_Oeo2lAgvom1lyOu4bd7soCLUrJBJOQhsQkOaqWrDzGm9BTk_vZnIg/s320/20161109_102442.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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I thought, "Well, I guess fashion over safety." While I didn't want this guy to fall and crack his head open, I did think it was kind of awesome that he was wearing a cowboy hat while putting up city flags.</div>
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Imagine my shock when a friend (you know who you are, Amy ☺) told me that there are cowboy hats <i>with hard hats built into them</i>. Which is the coolest thing I've ever heard.</div>
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Welcome to the wild west of Arizona!</div>
<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-27054782925870368422016-11-21T13:55:00.006-08:002016-11-21T13:55:51.445-08:00Shannon Time TravelsWell, it appears I haven't posted on this blog since 2014. Oops. As I just downloaded pictures from my camera (you the young-uns, there used to be cameras that were separate from phones -- I am an old fogey and still use one). Apparently, most of my pictures are from my time in Maine.<br />
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Therefore, this blog will begin jumping all over, time-wise. I'll go back and forth between Maine and my new home, Arizona.<br />
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Good grief. Shall we start with my move to Maine? (Man, my blog-laziness is pitiful.)<br />
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So, despite the fact that Maine moose hate me, personally, moose are a big deal in the Pine Tree State! This is evidenced by a big ol' moose welcoming all visitors at turnpike rest stops.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKY8d6-5LjYvgM7_a_wF3Zqarzn_eqDLgm4z56RX7aABxQD6YGLKCkGqaT1yGgYMYl5SwyiVKv69Kflm8hKol_WfSmYD3QM-Z6X6MwVPJyc8dvIPhSnNKLVdjUV_sYGh9ya7nGl9ImySw/s1600/IMG_1233.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKY8d6-5LjYvgM7_a_wF3Zqarzn_eqDLgm4z56RX7aABxQD6YGLKCkGqaT1yGgYMYl5SwyiVKv69Kflm8hKol_WfSmYD3QM-Z6X6MwVPJyc8dvIPhSnNKLVdjUV_sYGh9ya7nGl9ImySw/s320/IMG_1233.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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While I'm talking moose, allow me to share the deliciousness that is <a href="http://www.lenlibby.com/" target="_blank">Len Libby's Chocolates</a>. Len Libby has amazing chocolate, but the big draw is a life-sized chocolate moose. Oh, yes, you heard me. Here is the proof:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qP7IMit0fiYCoO9txmVfICjTWwQ1o8xmGpSsMogKRd3cRYCBvc5J6BXTO1RaBizmH6T9VuRPpuNN5BuvnbZO0slytfbfo6_RJyeF-5h9aniMcUWcI5h1HXvCb1vk9n8G_nLzZJVqiTg/s1600/IMG_1306.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qP7IMit0fiYCoO9txmVfICjTWwQ1o8xmGpSsMogKRd3cRYCBvc5J6BXTO1RaBizmH6T9VuRPpuNN5BuvnbZO0slytfbfo6_RJyeF-5h9aniMcUWcI5h1HXvCb1vk9n8G_nLzZJVqiTg/s320/IMG_1306.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Of course, they also added some bears, bear cubs, and fantastic scenery:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPlld-Ceu9valDDr49owDCAlUJOWJfUAyEXC6gW0coNPGZ5dJsp7xG_H1CSaN965tf1yOd-hS3CmvFbHvh0PKLJh3TzV3_vu698lqdhkxV-DqCXoQ8MWency3Q7Dtf1tEmXOTY1fLbRQ/s1600/IMG_1307.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPlld-Ceu9valDDr49owDCAlUJOWJfUAyEXC6gW0coNPGZ5dJsp7xG_H1CSaN965tf1yOd-hS3CmvFbHvh0PKLJh3TzV3_vu698lqdhkxV-DqCXoQ8MWency3Q7Dtf1tEmXOTY1fLbRQ/s320/IMG_1307.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDezfUfP20ODqA9fvVFwLLO5h7MYGAGImq8bORQUQTs43PQJ3SPSk_yuVOR6b1-A8e563xhuduxGA09lofoid-KcN8_6O9Z1z3JXHPuFeH3QJhB-xpu8Oh18SJo3fyjbqP_t_uSxQs5F0/s1600/IMG_1308.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDezfUfP20ODqA9fvVFwLLO5h7MYGAGImq8bORQUQTs43PQJ3SPSk_yuVOR6b1-A8e563xhuduxGA09lofoid-KcN8_6O9Z1z3JXHPuFeH3QJhB-xpu8Oh18SJo3fyjbqP_t_uSxQs5F0/s320/IMG_1308.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNLVC5eaK0TCGLzNlvwJa0HErJptDwNXHEhYqTLVSGKDYQzPsrslZ9muFttbjNUbXTbL-U_JQeVqBe4WuD9c6fMbhQo1Oo_WuDP6HYlAOk3GhrjjlICiFBn0w27uvYvHK6r49a9MVyKM/s1600/IMG_1309.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNLVC5eaK0TCGLzNlvwJa0HErJptDwNXHEhYqTLVSGKDYQzPsrslZ9muFttbjNUbXTbL-U_JQeVqBe4WuD9c6fMbhQo1Oo_WuDP6HYlAOk3GhrjjlICiFBn0w27uvYvHK6r49a9MVyKM/s320/IMG_1309.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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And that, my friends, is how Maine does chocolate.<br />
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-83648655378915860042014-10-24T08:08:00.002-07:002014-10-24T08:08:17.760-07:00Another Riveting Non-Fiction BookIn an <a href="http://schinag-o-blog.blogspot.com/search?q=non-fiction" target="_blank">earlier post</a>, I said that I was going to share non-fiction books that I read that I love. Of course, I have posted a grand total of one non-fiction book.<br />
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Today, I am going to double that total and add a second!<br />
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I recently listened to "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fractured-Mind-Multiple-Personality-Audiobook/dp/B002JYHF26/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1414162985&sr=1-3&keywords=fractured+mind+my+life+with+multiple+personality+disorder" target="_blank">A Fractured Mind: My Life with Multiple Personality Disorder</a>" by Robert B. Oxnam, and read by William Dufris. Holy cow, was it amazing. If you have ever doubted the existence of MPD, I highly recommend that you read it/listen to it. The book will erase any suspicions you have.<br />
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Robert B. Oxnam wasn't diagnosed until he was in his (if I remember correctly) late 30s. When originally diagnosed, he had 11 distinct personalities. By the end of the book, 8 of the personalities had merged, and he had three left. Those three, Robert, Bobby and Wanda, were learning to partially merge and coexist.<br />
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The book, written in the first person, included his life before he was diagnosed, his therapy, and his life after diagnosis. It was fascinating and a truly remarkable account.<br />
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I highly recommend it! <br />
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-47362278870932973862014-09-28T14:29:00.003-07:002014-09-28T14:29:38.839-07:00If I'd Been Given This Book, I'd Never Have Become a Librarian<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Okay, I was weeding some books and came across this one. Take a look at the little boy in front.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBcx7Qj7mmLjYPFf5NMAifUT1JIrCZ3au447bWsreaDqVTiAJ7UcZbQ62aGlnnKKdIW27e6fGNTrJzH5Ye8SXqAi98AyuA9GAR-BrC5uDQ2p0odyFpDetLjq6NpSahjHnt_3Uy2tKX8s/s1600/IMG_1285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBcx7Qj7mmLjYPFf5NMAifUT1JIrCZ3au447bWsreaDqVTiAJ7UcZbQ62aGlnnKKdIW27e6fGNTrJzH5Ye8SXqAi98AyuA9GAR-BrC5uDQ2p0odyFpDetLjq6NpSahjHnt_3Uy2tKX8s/s1600/IMG_1285.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Need a closer look?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6JOH4Gq0zk0ZmayjgGOoI1QafMjxUcV30Dxk07SdrVA_i7JCMyvOxR7dfz1H2GU9td77aGqC-MojgE5wmL-S-1D9oKufX9Y1JtKrnLcilcu8mpqkxKf9j9gzM_Nf9TBF_9DdspWCYw0/s1600/IMG_1286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6JOH4Gq0zk0ZmayjgGOoI1QafMjxUcV30Dxk07SdrVA_i7JCMyvOxR7dfz1H2GU9td77aGqC-MojgE5wmL-S-1D9oKufX9Y1JtKrnLcilcu8mpqkxKf9j9gzM_Nf9TBF_9DdspWCYw0/s1600/IMG_1286.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I saw this and decided he must be thinking, "This is the most terrifying bedtime story I've ever heard. What the f*#^?!"</div>
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What is hilarious is that I showed it to a coworker, and the first thing he thought was that the little boy in back was…ahem…perhaps acting a tad inappropriate?</div>
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Either way, this little boy's expression is hysterical, and I can't believe this painting is on the front of this textbook. And yet I'm so glad it was. HA!</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-60631048307572639012014-09-28T14:22:00.006-07:002014-09-28T14:22:49.666-07:00I Love My Cubicle. I'm Serious.And I may be the only person in the United States who loves his/her cubicle this much. But an office? Where I can think? And concentrate? This is a very novel experience for me, and I am so appreciative of it.<br />
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Okay, first you need to know that I've been given a double-wide cubicle! The space is amazing. I haven't even filled it all. But don't worry, I will. Here is side one, where I do most of my work. Notice how neat the desk is. It does not look like that anymore.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwgjZEq-s7JUFDHEE0jieCji0H7cqPDRT9anFZXk_hedEzbNKhqP1EeNF1YKtwqBn2dFgRvXiNtBx1amkgKqjb4jozWJaRHiZsoug4c7Ufdelx2kcLWe_g8GUjg3h9BkuAfykBPdGMabc/s1600/IMG_1240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwgjZEq-s7JUFDHEE0jieCji0H7cqPDRT9anFZXk_hedEzbNKhqP1EeNF1YKtwqBn2dFgRvXiNtBx1amkgKqjb4jozWJaRHiZsoug4c7Ufdelx2kcLWe_g8GUjg3h9BkuAfykBPdGMabc/s1600/IMG_1240.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Between my two cubicles…windows! And get this, <i>they open</i>. Not only do they open, but I am allowed to actually open them!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWA-hNCzwMxiozsBIPnvowCuy9qYwTEPpDWMqC9D2lBgfZnnPQq3ZUR9ugvdfonnRJMnSAm_9n7wvtSJ2__UHtSDznxlCyG1aLZ9ccIP7B3JkHrQvD72VkBrftXEM-wOXYQFBM9RtMnE/s1600/IMG_1239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWA-hNCzwMxiozsBIPnvowCuy9qYwTEPpDWMqC9D2lBgfZnnPQq3ZUR9ugvdfonnRJMnSAm_9n7wvtSJ2__UHtSDznxlCyG1aLZ9ccIP7B3JkHrQvD72VkBrftXEM-wOXYQFBM9RtMnE/s1600/IMG_1239.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is my other cubicle. It will fill up very quickly. It looks so pitiful and empty now. No children's librarian's space should look so sad.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYo_K6YDvxMDp9hyhPbN4mnVhFHCzwzORIT0zBPRwg_uUItXcqmSLSAwkAm3tcnFjGGy9PGcXNHPnSOs-p1tpXI728pyOdoAh6Bbzd8s_ucb5PilxKNbRZzpt0MnW06Nim2N5h651LOGI/s1600/IMG_1238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYo_K6YDvxMDp9hyhPbN4mnVhFHCzwzORIT0zBPRwg_uUItXcqmSLSAwkAm3tcnFjGGy9PGcXNHPnSOs-p1tpXI728pyOdoAh6Bbzd8s_ucb5PilxKNbRZzpt0MnW06Nim2N5h651LOGI/s1600/IMG_1238.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now I'll share some pictures of the Maine State Library itself. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHwPKmQ3-NmyaT8CBwXJhhOh5CsfnnQQEFZGN3lvqHSUYeTJ4GO0EZIiYd7T92lpkAw-0ytNQgOTIA-Kk0M3ekOQLyB-CPVYA4Poo-Z-zHZFCpPzFgwi-h8XooeJZSzT9bL2EUU5RJfY/s1600/IMG_1260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHwPKmQ3-NmyaT8CBwXJhhOh5CsfnnQQEFZGN3lvqHSUYeTJ4GO0EZIiYd7T92lpkAw-0ytNQgOTIA-Kk0M3ekOQLyB-CPVYA4Poo-Z-zHZFCpPzFgwi-h8XooeJZSzT9bL2EUU5RJfY/s1600/IMG_1260.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The MSL shares a building with the Maine History Museum and the Maine State Archives.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGZsaAM5ccxHcU6iCYvImJsTSdepwBSIP6rZxz-wIJn-wg_VmXGDgCoy8YjoS7rnhUSMm_KJhANWM1teu6OZSmaPO1xbapc-t1HiX0vD7N9XSAri0UOhbBaMovYLBUL46I_BZzsfN5kw/s1600/IMG_1262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGZsaAM5ccxHcU6iCYvImJsTSdepwBSIP6rZxz-wIJn-wg_VmXGDgCoy8YjoS7rnhUSMm_KJhANWM1teu6OZSmaPO1xbapc-t1HiX0vD7N9XSAri0UOhbBaMovYLBUL46I_BZzsfN5kw/s1600/IMG_1262.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's called the Cultural Building.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEi5waDISJQig8mjU9lpnoiN4-6rltYraML3BHj7Inx8hrti-PGW5kOR6Mm_aBak8vIl7bqsnLPamDtoHKHT39wbz8uUiuJ3Dy4SskAWZNssaZk5-h_jaLqLwtUF8wtuvqoTKr7OkFcxo/s1600/IMG_1265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEi5waDISJQig8mjU9lpnoiN4-6rltYraML3BHj7Inx8hrti-PGW5kOR6Mm_aBak8vIl7bqsnLPamDtoHKHT39wbz8uUiuJ3Dy4SskAWZNssaZk5-h_jaLqLwtUF8wtuvqoTKr7OkFcxo/s1600/IMG_1265.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Cultural Building is on a campus with other state departments. The Capitol itself is right across a parking lot.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZocOZx1pv_lQDR8AAxe5u7fKIAfixImm00Hrh2RfgYOAffZStQAFhpk_1aPlT32lC30DYDySqbaO3lG_YeDPfmkZAavM3tjCNVY3XD-oeXM_tGU5SZ_jbzd2AsTHJ2XDHjyMFwVVaQk/s1600/IMG_1263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZocOZx1pv_lQDR8AAxe5u7fKIAfixImm00Hrh2RfgYOAffZStQAFhpk_1aPlT32lC30DYDySqbaO3lG_YeDPfmkZAavM3tjCNVY3XD-oeXM_tGU5SZ_jbzd2AsTHJ2XDHjyMFwVVaQk/s1600/IMG_1263.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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They're doing work on the dome.</div>
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One thing I've never had to think about before…I've been told that during the legislative session, parking is nearly impossible to find. Luckily, I am part of a van pool, so I don't have to worry about that. But what a strange thing to consider.</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-51032878811122826282014-09-28T14:10:00.003-07:002014-09-28T14:10:33.135-07:00I Walked Around Portland, and What Did I See?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I now live in Portland, ME. As I walk around town, I've been seeing the funniest things. I finally remembered to bring my camera, so here are some of my favorite sights!</div>
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You will probably not be shocked that this is outside of a church, but it still cracks me up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RJNmWAaYQ3NI2t7jLXFC66HkE9tk5QkccUjNwT1xoVuwZY39vF6s0T0W0wawqHTe2BT4u_A0Hr-DAX_hJr3xjypvhd4bS4GNs7YVZcr9KU7NytGyPAhovQDmwYAQXI4lUwg9v3JX284/s1600/IMG_1300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RJNmWAaYQ3NI2t7jLXFC66HkE9tk5QkccUjNwT1xoVuwZY39vF6s0T0W0wawqHTe2BT4u_A0Hr-DAX_hJr3xjypvhd4bS4GNs7YVZcr9KU7NytGyPAhovQDmwYAQXI4lUwg9v3JX284/s1600/IMG_1300.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Okay, here's what you need to know about this picture: other than the red awning (and the blue-roofed information hut), <i>the front of that building is painted.</i> Yes, it's true! Those archways? Painted. The balcony? Painted. I think this is mind-blowing. It just looks so real!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHLiMKjGf13oNl795dK9jYpdB0nI5ufp9Pfb_pM6nzHsrFmRQGIcwAviLPGNM0Zrp4Km6vYvXcCJd6yj1HihDoBIKPkYL-hw322Pf3nBRPgC6qg4bMsHS8RV-yqzlwS3Xd8pFTcyeyIU/s1600/IMG_1301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHLiMKjGf13oNl795dK9jYpdB0nI5ufp9Pfb_pM6nzHsrFmRQGIcwAviLPGNM0Zrp4Km6vYvXcCJd6yj1HihDoBIKPkYL-hw322Pf3nBRPgC6qg4bMsHS8RV-yqzlwS3Xd8pFTcyeyIU/s1600/IMG_1301.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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In fact, you can walk closer and closer, and it <i>still</i> looks real. (The brown fence and fairy lights are real -- the patio is a restaurant.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcbIIZJyMSoChlszh-xgvQA5bXcxLn2nEidKm6XpqQAvfveHKBaR-GgYbHyFJDUvQf7gD58BfnZwx2KOg-rC37FZ7kcyBA8Wg6gzsNNZY8UA1irLnKt6dvt8Gj-q015E09SLkE4aJy-s/s1600/IMG_1302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcbIIZJyMSoChlszh-xgvQA5bXcxLn2nEidKm6XpqQAvfveHKBaR-GgYbHyFJDUvQf7gD58BfnZwx2KOg-rC37FZ7kcyBA8Wg6gzsNNZY8UA1irLnKt6dvt8Gj-q015E09SLkE4aJy-s/s1600/IMG_1302.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This cracks me up, because the window pane cuts Ms. or Mr. Treworgy's name in a very unfortunate place. I mean, unless it's a secret message. I find it amazing that Ms./Mr. Treworgy didn't notice this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2DKA5yOJF6mLnCVKsh_0yb1rVo3xmVgsLHcOfCAbWa2B2_rHdm9yrhaTRhj-Te-qC3an94CXH0ekTYpHvCKt8SfLw_Q_QArCqH2ol6qTebTbyMsUMc9X0uk7AUBF7T4VBpoBCuz14bo/s1600/IMG_1304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2DKA5yOJF6mLnCVKsh_0yb1rVo3xmVgsLHcOfCAbWa2B2_rHdm9yrhaTRhj-Te-qC3an94CXH0ekTYpHvCKt8SfLw_Q_QArCqH2ol6qTebTbyMsUMc9X0uk7AUBF7T4VBpoBCuz14bo/s1600/IMG_1304.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Okay, more to come! This is just a taste.</div>
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P.S. I love it here.</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-90593908684480261762014-07-15T15:41:00.002-07:002014-07-15T15:41:41.759-07:00Where in the World Is Shannon Schinagl?I am having so much fun studying maps of Maine. Since I will be traveling all over Maine for both work and fun, I've been examining maps of the state quite closely. Every time I e-mail someone, talk to someone, or hear someone mention a place, I look it up on the map.<br />
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What I have discovered is that the whole world is contained in Maine!<br />
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Allow me to explain:<br />
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We begin in Europe, where we make stops in the English cities of <a href="http://www.city-data.com/city/Avon-Maine.html" target="_blank">Avon</a> and <a href="http://www.cityofbath.com/" target="_blank">Bath</a>. While there, we'll pop over to Northern Ireland to visit <a href="http://www.cityofbelfast.org/" target="_blank">Belfast</a>.<br />
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Let's cross the English Channel to France, and we can discover the wonders of <a href="http://www.calaismaine.org/" target="_blank">Calais</a> and <a href="http://www.parismaine.org/" target="_blank">Paris</a>. Then we'll trot around more of Europe, visiting <a href="http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Lucerne-in-Maine&state=ME" target="_blank">Lucerne</a> in Switzerland; <a href="http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Naples&state=ME" target="_blank">Naples</a> and <a href="http://www.city-data.com/city/Verona-Maine.html" target="_blank">Verona</a> in Italy; <a href="http://viennamaine.org/drupal/" target="_blank">Vienna</a>, Austria; and both <a href="http://www.aroostook.me.us/stockholm/75-welcometostockholm.html" target="_blank">Stockholm</a> AND <a href="http://www.maine.gov/local/town2.php?t=sweden" target="_blank">Sweden</a> -- separately! It's a magic trick! And we can't forget the countries of <a href="http://www.denmarkmaine.org/" target="_blank">Denmark</a>, <a href="http://www.norwaymaine.com/" target="_blank">Norway</a> and <a href="http://www.polandtownoffice.org/pages/polandme_webdocs/about" target="_blank">Poland</a>.<br />
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Now we'll take the long way back to the Americas via <a href="http://www.china.govoffice.com/" target="_blank">China</a>, before stopping in <a href="http://www.mexicomaine.net/" target="_blank">Mexico</a>. <br />
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After such international travel, let's visit a few domestic cities. Let's travel east to west, beginning with <a href="http://www.city-data.com/city/Princeton-Maine.html" target="_blank">Princeton</a>, NJ! I hate to admit it, but we will also stop in <a href="http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Cleveland&state=ME" target="_blank">Cleveland</a>, Ohio. I'm sorry. Let's continue on to <a href="http://www.maine.gov/local/town.php?t=Detroit" target="_blank">Detroit</a>, MI. Come on, Detroit! The entire country is rooting for your recovery! We're going to fly all the way to Alaska now to visit <a href="http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Fairbanks&state=ME" target="_blank">Fairbanks</a>!<br />
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And finally, the last stop on our tour, and possibly the most exotic: <a href="http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Purgatory&state=ME" target="_blank">Purgatory</a>.<br />
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I love that Maine has all of these countries and cities as locations within the state. And if you happened to click on any of those links at all, you'll see that every town is absolutely beautiful.<br />
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I hope to keep track of everywhere I visit in Maine on this blog, so you'll probably see these names again! And when you do, I should have stories and pictures to go along with them.<br />
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If you want to look at a map of Maine yourself, get a very big, very detailed one. A lot of the towns and cities in Maine are very, very tiny, and you'll need a good map to find them all. I'm getting a huge one at work, which I'll back with foam core. I plan to stick little flag pins on the map to note where I've gone!Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-55457763930068279782014-07-03T15:53:00.001-07:002014-07-03T15:53:28.209-07:00I'm Going to Be a…Patron?!It occurred to me that for the first time in 14 years, I am going to be a patron. Not an employee/patron. Just a patron.<br />
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I won't get to go behind the reference/circulation desks to help myself. I'll have to ask with everyone else. I'll have to actually make time to pick up holds, since I won't be at the library for work every day.<br />
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This is going to be very weird. <a href="http://www.portlandlibrary.com/" target="_blank">Portland Public Library</a>, I apologize if I overstep! I'm going to have some hard habits to break.Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-2790390065271205342014-07-03T15:50:00.001-07:002014-07-03T15:50:31.938-07:00Onward and Upward (Seriously!)I'm moving to <a href="http://www.mapquest.com/us/me/portland" target="_blank">Portland, ME</a>! I used to live in Seattle, WA, in the very upper northwest. Portland, ME, is in the very upper northeast. I wonder if I subliminally want to be a Canadian? I seem to live as close as possible to the Canadian border without actually moving across.<br />
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Anyway, I landed what is pretty much my dream job. I'm going to be the Early Literacy Coordinator (to put it briefly -- my actual title is so long that <i>I</i> can't even remember it) for the State of Maine, thanks to a partnership between the <a href="http://www.state.me.us/msl/" target="_blank">Maine State Library</a> and the <a href="http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/" target="_blank">Department of Health and Human Services</a>! This is a brand new job, so my supervisors and I will be figuring some of it out along the way, but mainly (Ha! No pun intended.) I'll be traveling all over <a href="http://www.mapquest.com/#ad6c1e7bd8ac9f5063b01df4" target="_blank">Maine</a>, coordinating with children's librarians, parents, HeadStarts, preschools and child care providers. Basically, anyone who has a stake in ages 0-5 years. I'll also be providing resources and training where appropriate. There will be more to it, but that's the basis.<br />
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One of the things I'm most looking forward to is working partly with the public, but also partly in an office. I'm a little burned out on working with the public every day, all day. I love working with the public, but it's hectic, and there's no time to <i>think</i>. There is never time to read an article and ponder the implications, or really consider the best way to create and implement a program. Being a public librarian is definitely a job of doing, doing, doing. I am so excited to be able to sit and plan and reflect, not just react.<br />
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This job basically plays on all of my favorite parts of children's librarianship. Toss in some animals and a few more immigrants, and I wouldn't be able to dream up a better job for me!<br />
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A huge bonus of this job is that I'll be moving to Portland. I have yet to meet anyone -- including a random guy in Starbucks -- who doesn't <i>rave</i> about Portland. I already have an apartment in the neighborhood I wanted -- <a href="http://oldportmag.com/around-town/life-munjoy-hill-portlands-easternmost-neighborhood/" target="_blank">Munjoy Hill</a>. The commute to my job, which is in <a href="http://www.mapquest.com/us/me/augusta" target="_blank">Augusta</a>, will be about an hour. That sucks, but eventually I will travel enough that it won't really matter where I live. Plus, I hope to be able to join a vanpool so that I don't have to be the one driving, and I can snooze a little longer.<br />
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I shall keep you all updated on my travels, especially my adventures throughout Maine. (They have moose crossing signs on the highways!)Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-68125955459118467242014-07-02T14:25:00.000-07:002014-07-02T14:25:00.855-07:00I Dare You...Sterling's new favorite place:<br />
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This is funny, because if I ever tried to wash her, I would lose a limb. I think she is mocking me.</div>
<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-62237294101361646312014-07-02T14:13:00.002-07:002014-07-02T14:13:55.335-07:00Going to the Chapel!My sister, Allyson, got married to the most wonderful guy, Kevin. The wedding was absolutely perfect: intimate and personal. Allow me to share!<br />
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The wedding was in Prescott, AZ, which is up in the Yavapai Mountains. That means that it was sunny and beautiful, but a lovely temperature of mid-70s, rather than the living hell that is Phoenix.<br />
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The chapel Ally and Kevin chose was very small and historic, and overlooked a lake where they fish. It's called <a href="http://chapelofthevalley.net/" target="_blank">Chapel of the Valley</a>, and the lake is -- surprise! -- <a href="http://www.azgfd.gov/h_f/waters_fain_lake.shtml" target="_blank">Fain Lake</a>.<br />
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Ally and Kevin met thanks to Superman. At the time, Kevin worked at Circle K. Ally went in to buy some sort of pink doughnuts that she likes. As she handed Kevin the money, he saw the Superman tattoo on the inside of her wrist. He immediately showed her the Superman tattoo on his arm, and true love was born!</div>
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Here, a wedding gift from family friends Barbara and Richard.</div>
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As a result, my Dad and Allyson walked down the aisle to the Superman theme song. As maid-of-honor, this gave me a lot of responsibility. I had to walk down the aisle and get in place just in time for Ally and Dad to appear at the crescendo. Luckily, I played my part well!</div>
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After the wedding, my Mom and sister had planned a little picnic of appetizers down at the lake while Ally, Kevin, the wedding party and parents got all of the wedding photos taken. This was a brilliant idea! No cranky guests due to starvation!</div>
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Here are a few of the candid photos that were taken by wedding guests. (The official photos haven't arrived yet.)</div>
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First, in tribute to the Superman theme…</div>
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At Ally's feet is the best man, David. Kevin is the one being assaulted by the veil. It was a very windy day. Ally's veil had a life of its own. It should have its own Facebook page, like Angelina's leg or something.</div>
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The mother photo! My Mom is on the far right, and Kevin's two Moms are on the left.</div>
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Mom with Ally and Kevin...</div>
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Me and Al...</div>
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Me, Ally and Mom...</div>
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Ally, Dad and Sue. And the veil, once again with a life of its own.</div>
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Ally, Kevin, and Kevin's Moms. And Al doing the poof pose.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrc72GIlPaonf7Qnl42A6bMRExDQcBl7fmahfJoy8IFBViPS1oKTf8bhJ-i08dSsoXKyBF8n3ShUSzxzdOxOkP9T5i3aF_bNU8PHHOblwicOTZQ2D_231zq-MaxUR0lmS9iyjOD0plko/s1600/IMG_0972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrc72GIlPaonf7Qnl42A6bMRExDQcBl7fmahfJoy8IFBViPS1oKTf8bhJ-i08dSsoXKyBF8n3ShUSzxzdOxOkP9T5i3aF_bNU8PHHOblwicOTZQ2D_231zq-MaxUR0lmS9iyjOD0plko/s1600/IMG_0972.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The Schinagl fam...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIK7YuvZMMzxZhkbzxkpNMRSHFD__sQRjROWl97nsFIrVnKu_rmxFYy5ZohK-yRJWGXx3V2utyNgz2GzObXZqTvOuR82KiDiW1Q6ZlC9gvvNLHlI1vDXeNjiWQWckYTRuxaZUUI1k2tMo/s1600/IMG_0979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIK7YuvZMMzxZhkbzxkpNMRSHFD__sQRjROWl97nsFIrVnKu_rmxFYy5ZohK-yRJWGXx3V2utyNgz2GzObXZqTvOuR82KiDiW1Q6ZlC9gvvNLHlI1vDXeNjiWQWckYTRuxaZUUI1k2tMo/s1600/IMG_0979.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Me with flower boobs…</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTt9vfi9-ElnbyKL6Cuhu94BJiQ8TbOCFE8FqN0W21hB76K8dCE_p6u4JPIaiA0UB0AnS7RN_rqbGshyAMs_PAtckYvhPnxAKtPrbsYFH25r6tDwxQUGR9Cl-_ot6olUF4dBDpTjQYaM/s1600/IMG_0976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTt9vfi9-ElnbyKL6Cuhu94BJiQ8TbOCFE8FqN0W21hB76K8dCE_p6u4JPIaiA0UB0AnS7RN_rqbGshyAMs_PAtckYvhPnxAKtPrbsYFH25r6tDwxQUGR9Cl-_ot6olUF4dBDpTjQYaM/s1600/IMG_0976.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Ally and Kevin's first dance...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzM6oP_HOAuA5SDn5X0UFft9y3F4q_mIY2dn9ZVTEhZhEQxQsmf0WKQjSlV3UaTmwj9Sapn4baDmQBMKBbefzBjuNkXzPF3wsd_ec8-QsHd9FvChppx-yCDEHIcqLEezOtI8NdktKZoUY/s1600/IMG_1263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzM6oP_HOAuA5SDn5X0UFft9y3F4q_mIY2dn9ZVTEhZhEQxQsmf0WKQjSlV3UaTmwj9Sapn4baDmQBMKBbefzBjuNkXzPF3wsd_ec8-QsHd9FvChppx-yCDEHIcqLEezOtI8NdktKZoUY/s1600/IMG_1263.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Anyway, it was absolutely lovely, and I loved every minute of it!</div>
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I may have to post again when the official pics come in.</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-62726372849594084102014-07-01T14:40:00.000-07:002014-07-01T14:40:08.080-07:00Parental Guilt, Without the KidsEvery morning as I leave for work, this is what I see as I walk out the door.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCXECTo1DoCpUw5jJ2C-BLJMuniTkwWwWwcckfCstVZCBFTkgYUN72hzUI79c0tqjMUrAKC8-d_Qq655jSoNxU7cNBu5U9hBSicTz56x4MRhskBvyfHqSM2Joff9VcOUDMhuMOlqWi90/s1600/IMG_1206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCXECTo1DoCpUw5jJ2C-BLJMuniTkwWwWwcckfCstVZCBFTkgYUN72hzUI79c0tqjMUrAKC8-d_Qq655jSoNxU7cNBu5U9hBSicTz56x4MRhskBvyfHqSM2Joff9VcOUDMhuMOlqWi90/s1600/IMG_1206.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nothing makes you feel worse than your cat staring mournfully at you through the banisters (knowing full well that it makes her look like an inmate) as you turn your back. Sigh…</div>
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And the thing is that the minute she hears the door lock, she probably thinks, "Finally! Now I can go back to sleep without interruption." I'm probably reading into the pitiful expression. She's probably watching to make sure I actually leave.</div>
<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-27691686994368274312014-06-30T13:10:00.001-07:002014-06-30T13:10:21.133-07:00Am I in Seattle?I am moving to Portland, ME. (More on that in another post.) I was apartment hunting, and when I went to see a potential apartment I realized that the Portland neighborhood of Munjoy Hill was eerily like Upper Queen Anne in Seattle. I have photographic proof!<br />
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First of all, you must be familiar with <a href="http://www.seattle.gov/parks/park_detail.asp?ID=342" target="_blank">Kerry Park</a> in Seattle. It's a park with an amazing view of downtown Seattle and Elliott Bay. It's the view you see on a <i>lot</i> of Seattle postcards.<br />
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Kerry Park in Seattle:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWOComGFUkUAXERkyK6V0pnb_KlvK5FOT17AK6Tsj4tvYX3ujS1-ch2G5p9yHN86rKQ11KIdU6bCna-OJn2nr-a8qdAjtnsIPo1U-vJikbqPr2rwpOchGQ61dSHMxcUg-0HlI4IdobD4/s1600/IMG_0293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWOComGFUkUAXERkyK6V0pnb_KlvK5FOT17AK6Tsj4tvYX3ujS1-ch2G5p9yHN86rKQ11KIdU6bCna-OJn2nr-a8qdAjtnsIPo1U-vJikbqPr2rwpOchGQ61dSHMxcUg-0HlI4IdobD4/s1600/IMG_0293.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The little park I found in the neighborhood of Munjoy Hill in Portland:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2G5Qxn8RRAdKMd7QQBTd8Rk1Iqpt35xHGRuG6UXd5ex2Layq38YYeXMj3TCKSnYt3KMaHyeIO-6DpCuTSjInsSVDb4AvhsaVkBDQxgoAVMT_w0XTtwuVA5u5n46p1AZjvWHrj6GBR2Fw/s1600/IMG_1213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2G5Qxn8RRAdKMd7QQBTd8Rk1Iqpt35xHGRuG6UXd5ex2Layq38YYeXMj3TCKSnYt3KMaHyeIO-6DpCuTSjInsSVDb4AvhsaVkBDQxgoAVMT_w0XTtwuVA5u5n46p1AZjvWHrj6GBR2Fw/s1600/IMG_1213.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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View of Seattle from Kerry Park:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlyhKZOD1C7yy57BaUZNQXsEdtGl9rJj7nX_KgbCxaKpa14hOYFxNQhfFU3ikbt9xIKHZrVqSM24HUz9ENJymW8rpZv__99mrEXBVxjThzcxpyK43Hm3dyBkUVoQyZ-raFUQTqmYsw_k/s1600/KerryParkMainView.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlyhKZOD1C7yy57BaUZNQXsEdtGl9rJj7nX_KgbCxaKpa14hOYFxNQhfFU3ikbt9xIKHZrVqSM24HUz9ENJymW8rpZv__99mrEXBVxjThzcxpyK43Hm3dyBkUVoQyZ-raFUQTqmYsw_k/s1600/KerryParkMainView.jpg" height="207" width="320" /></a></div>
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View of Portland from this little park (keep in mind that Portland, ME, is a shorter city than Seattle, and doesn't have a volcano in the background):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDnnlLxMLQxRShc84mLuMyQj5ZbB8AJBaMADxHlrr456Q1YW5KNTtn6RBlAKRNl44komvdxxz0ACncJf9ghgK2-V0yiiU1x8eQZONuFmLECZKR7BjU0c90JSA9PigjE8bPfgzpH7Fh_8o/s1600/IMG_1214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDnnlLxMLQxRShc84mLuMyQj5ZbB8AJBaMADxHlrr456Q1YW5KNTtn6RBlAKRNl44komvdxxz0ACncJf9ghgK2-V0yiiU1x8eQZONuFmLECZKR7BjU0c90JSA9PigjE8bPfgzpH7Fh_8o/s1600/IMG_1214.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Holy COW is it hard to find a view of Elliott Bay from Kerry Park! Everyone is so enamored of the skyline, I guess, that they ignore the Bay, which is just as beautiful. Anyway, I have NO idea who these people are; it's just the best image I found. View of Elliott Bay from Kerry Park (the Bay is to the right of the skyline):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMebcp97l58rXcWNfbl9lWNnKHxQabJ9ZrY0EYO3vB7Qz-cjC5esMH2dpzjmLa8t47dAL2wQo9UaFQOWz9-O2lVg1q9tDu69N6mOQedEAwzRj_aY3La1an_YRFKmtMxlkBKs390_h2Fno/s1600/517e07fb8ed5966774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMebcp97l58rXcWNfbl9lWNnKHxQabJ9ZrY0EYO3vB7Qz-cjC5esMH2dpzjmLa8t47dAL2wQo9UaFQOWz9-O2lVg1q9tDu69N6mOQedEAwzRj_aY3La1an_YRFKmtMxlkBKs390_h2Fno/s1600/517e07fb8ed5966774.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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View of Back Cove from the little park (water is to the right of the skyline):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVeJ_OZnAtSrdFOPvPaAJz26epwZGOCiw3Yt0N497zj0s_xF1eJ8PYpWqycWm9Q_gjVF_ZrY48Z0OYOK4SWX6vP2f7H_LN5RD_jGXA_T6eKnR_2xDZfkUcDJ7FGL202eiXhHapmOylXNc/s1600/IMG_1215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVeJ_OZnAtSrdFOPvPaAJz26epwZGOCiw3Yt0N497zj0s_xF1eJ8PYpWqycWm9Q_gjVF_ZrY48Z0OYOK4SWX6vP2f7H_LN5RD_jGXA_T6eKnR_2xDZfkUcDJ7FGL202eiXhHapmOylXNc/s1600/IMG_1215.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Okay, if you are in Kerry Park and facing the Seattle skyline, to the left is a set of stairs to take you down to the street; it's too steep for a path or street:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxn18yRphU-ymwWMKCiXUZwXWC_FltdhPIomV6-FBBIQpmuk7sadQKBRGvgmp5icvC6q2pMOizcC2qXhLN8QpnL_TYPhIdPfLCNGVpXn5-PGIMoOZVjFYzhYjqKAXkj1WkZXmMTG9KqpQ/s1600/image7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxn18yRphU-ymwWMKCiXUZwXWC_FltdhPIomV6-FBBIQpmuk7sadQKBRGvgmp5icvC6q2pMOizcC2qXhLN8QpnL_TYPhIdPfLCNGVpXn5-PGIMoOZVjFYzhYjqKAXkj1WkZXmMTG9KqpQ/s1600/image7.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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Same thing at this little Portland park:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2aeaTKr87cU_MttJcihHWj2fIDB2b_BG7VdxQZR92RTH7Y-olkh_2gDhRBofQ_9SjnjUiKmVB7nyf-czMlZkxMCta-ZKLUGOm_fLyPHSmT2g8IHQGQVz93Oj5XgQfIEStp3RUU_FDWs/s1600/IMG_1216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2aeaTKr87cU_MttJcihHWj2fIDB2b_BG7VdxQZR92RTH7Y-olkh_2gDhRBofQ_9SjnjUiKmVB7nyf-czMlZkxMCta-ZKLUGOm_fLyPHSmT2g8IHQGQVz93Oj5XgQfIEStp3RUU_FDWs/s1600/IMG_1216.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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At the bottom of the Kerry Park steps is a playground with a field, and then a great big house next to the field (I can't find a picture that includes the house):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBTvBcBsHtwOztVxfsRMQ8ce7oXNpzxKNtX4RfHN0sL23Xr6rPytyKquCrHTqLXQ-cQMAvhbMg94o9jcvw4Xw8Cup6UnCVvUgqwNNR0RAfzCGliZUlfJXoGqxlEGDvXotEwbVqPiFZKY/s1600/DSC00491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBTvBcBsHtwOztVxfsRMQ8ce7oXNpzxKNtX4RfHN0sL23Xr6rPytyKquCrHTqLXQ-cQMAvhbMg94o9jcvw4Xw8Cup6UnCVvUgqwNNR0RAfzCGliZUlfJXoGqxlEGDvXotEwbVqPiFZKY/s1600/DSC00491.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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No playground, but field next to a big house at the bottom of the Portland park steps (and, if I recall correctly, the house next to the Kerry Park steps is also blue):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwEJn3hHOuJdhE_LfuKWVjhs4q7-xwciEuMxhz3YuL8ZqHXUVXUoZArQj_xuHmUNwsM3BlwjxyAb_p6LTjZRN4AAP9n9VUNrxC_xSgUUF-UshaaeSPBfap-Bi-unRshtiB2VpnGaZGnE/s1600/IMG_1217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwEJn3hHOuJdhE_LfuKWVjhs4q7-xwciEuMxhz3YuL8ZqHXUVXUoZArQj_xuHmUNwsM3BlwjxyAb_p6LTjZRN4AAP9n9VUNrxC_xSgUUF-UshaaeSPBfap-Bi-unRshtiB2VpnGaZGnE/s1600/IMG_1217.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Now, if you are at Kerry Park in Seattle, facing the skyline, and head to your left, you get to Queen Anne Avenue about a block or two away. Queen Anne Avenue at that point is where all of the stores, restaurants, cafes, etc. are.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JO7fkYjLh9RUqO5vBZ358Wx1sLeXVFYDN7EJX0DyJHJmAl8VDvi_05j5sMBOXBNHIwswQd5b9-tWmeXO4lIeHKhaeX4Rnp9r1QB02DGyYgTtzOX1yS04tmTD7kATU0e4_OY87buDCIY/s1600/qa_about.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JO7fkYjLh9RUqO5vBZ358Wx1sLeXVFYDN7EJX0DyJHJmAl8VDvi_05j5sMBOXBNHIwswQd5b9-tWmeXO4lIeHKhaeX4Rnp9r1QB02DGyYgTtzOX1yS04tmTD7kATU0e4_OY87buDCIY/s1600/qa_about.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Same thing at this park in Portland! Face the skyline, head left, and…TA-DA!</div>
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Anyway, I can't wait to move to Munjoy Hill in Portland, ME. Obviously, I will feel right at home! I hope I can remember which city I'm in.</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-43823066753155308642014-06-28T12:41:00.000-07:002014-06-28T12:41:19.005-07:00Riding (Walking) the (Now-Defunct) Rails!One of my favorite places in Newburyport is the Rail Trail. I walk it all the time. It's one of those trails that used to be a railroad, but is now defunct and turned into a trail. Since I'm moving (more on that later), I took lots of pictures to share.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSizgpTxO6W0Q1CKqBpp_v82jTJ4q83p2NrVue-KPtu2sPUJnJWaEkv49pQ3inVrScTj19w0ZFXcYQe5LAPLwVytl-Ecrkq6L39D6VWsZ8iGcx-I6eT5ULyARRVbUvezZyPmnswc70UwA/s1600/IMG_1110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSizgpTxO6W0Q1CKqBpp_v82jTJ4q83p2NrVue-KPtu2sPUJnJWaEkv49pQ3inVrScTj19w0ZFXcYQe5LAPLwVytl-Ecrkq6L39D6VWsZ8iGcx-I6eT5ULyARRVbUvezZyPmnswc70UwA/s1600/IMG_1110.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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There are several place to access the Rail Trail. I usually get on here, where the trail crosses a road not far from my house.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtNtNhrXwzK_srzZS4ju9YtVicZBrFwB8nWve_GboBz6ne1pkcxf7BgWCoqM2DN1OHrSbDSeRwa3wurp8Dc-dlyRwkcJGuvtQbtTb3l4Tno9L5BlQ4s44cXumx7GWUQKwMFazMEWYcmk/s1600/IMG_1157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtNtNhrXwzK_srzZS4ju9YtVicZBrFwB8nWve_GboBz6ne1pkcxf7BgWCoqM2DN1OHrSbDSeRwa3wurp8Dc-dlyRwkcJGuvtQbtTb3l4Tno9L5BlQ4s44cXumx7GWUQKwMFazMEWYcmk/s1600/IMG_1157.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are homes on either side of the trail for part of it.</div>
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As you can see, it's a paved path. There are always lots of cyclists and rollerbladers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMV1U_5zdxmij3T-qxCA_OLQAjkrHpmquawhyrc3I2j_Bd61qsW5uooY0KMfg-YMiguQugIhL6ZqaDA7rE1rxCM5yfuMfpxgYfgBdXC9MVpb8J7frVzIZFv5GAgLedGFRhFUNDhyn650/s1600/IMG_1111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMV1U_5zdxmij3T-qxCA_OLQAjkrHpmquawhyrc3I2j_Bd61qsW5uooY0KMfg-YMiguQugIhL6ZqaDA7rE1rxCM5yfuMfpxgYfgBdXC9MVpb8J7frVzIZFv5GAgLedGFRhFUNDhyn650/s1600/IMG_1111.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I said, there are many places to access the trail. The trail is in a sort of gully. When one accesses the trail from a street, there is always a set of stairs heading down to the trail, as well as a ramp for anyone with wheels.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4bG-lHCayKKNYIbsxgB7kVwvHmhg1BhCGIbVb2PfS7WvREOsQXNyRo8xcrI9lO6CPf4YWgKI92CWRhkxlKLyYiEZ9RygjLCnWOzXwADH-fpXs7dPRfm02EvejKCJiRadpKy8JPP9xu28/s1600/IMG_1113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4bG-lHCayKKNYIbsxgB7kVwvHmhg1BhCGIbVb2PfS7WvREOsQXNyRo8xcrI9lO6CPf4YWgKI92CWRhkxlKLyYiEZ9RygjLCnWOzXwADH-fpXs7dPRfm02EvejKCJiRadpKy8JPP9xu28/s1600/IMG_1113.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO1J6Rn-K46fYHClcdN73indv23vwqJL1S7I1nE6uoBXJ_RRwpeRA2A5ameFN8lY3UclcXzjd7vSxSMY3hsTTnl2qjS761SLyAhQArGpeNYpmYU820ZhzIdQ8CTppxNWcxxPrk3NQYnP0/s1600/IMG_1118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO1J6Rn-K46fYHClcdN73indv23vwqJL1S7I1nE6uoBXJ_RRwpeRA2A5ameFN8lY3UclcXzjd7vSxSMY3hsTTnl2qjS761SLyAhQArGpeNYpmYU820ZhzIdQ8CTppxNWcxxPrk3NQYnP0/s1600/IMG_1118.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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There is lots of sculpture along the trail which I really enjoy, because most of it actually looks like something. The one below is "Wishbone," and it actually looks like a wishbone!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvZXlpRvVb7h1ggTHFXhUSSRigjBlT_gH9Alc37XyP-QFOLMIIcT-ERB3rY0tHsiVGCu8Ef22QOI1l0dcVaIuHTEorTBEmrtbheC3WN79aLHWBPWFhoLnwpidpCNPV1slKk7GwRTi7xo/s1600/IMG_1114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvZXlpRvVb7h1ggTHFXhUSSRigjBlT_gH9Alc37XyP-QFOLMIIcT-ERB3rY0tHsiVGCu8Ef22QOI1l0dcVaIuHTEorTBEmrtbheC3WN79aLHWBPWFhoLnwpidpCNPV1slKk7GwRTi7xo/s1600/IMG_1114.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are lots of signs that tell about the railroad of yore. It's really interesting, like these stones.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmymsqDsPAOJ-UEvRVXRsSmtPV2x1EasrEMiXezFiIppVxlMeytrPNkEF12Pp4ImUE8gIO0QTMjJJfW3EHZxTAS-2aXKjWgOe9Z7xcbmMjAEWrtCslqYgNED9Z37LxpfSEdVw6g5-mpU/s1600/IMG_1115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmymsqDsPAOJ-UEvRVXRsSmtPV2x1EasrEMiXezFiIppVxlMeytrPNkEF12Pp4ImUE8gIO0QTMjJJfW3EHZxTAS-2aXKjWgOe9Z7xcbmMjAEWrtCslqYgNED9Z37LxpfSEdVw6g5-mpU/s1600/IMG_1115.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglx8V6hVdN2CRcNvlvyi-hREeiIiYs_jlrngBYkPlU6AoNMYUVUTrAgNFXeeKtyB8CWBWoyt6teW-FZe3kck4KVbn8vzaZPbUL4_ahbr2zg4NcRZCtzwBFA7bIyE4rqTAQRQHr-5okp8w/s1600/IMG_1116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglx8V6hVdN2CRcNvlvyi-hREeiIiYs_jlrngBYkPlU6AoNMYUVUTrAgNFXeeKtyB8CWBWoyt6teW-FZe3kck4KVbn8vzaZPbUL4_ahbr2zg4NcRZCtzwBFA7bIyE4rqTAQRQHr-5okp8w/s1600/IMG_1116.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's hard to read, but this shows an old picture of the roundhouse, where the trains used to turn around. I <i>love</i> the pictures they include.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjct4bwl96JXmBMYfEyGZq6KXGdObnPrQ7wgz8g6ULcql4UyduZFRH21EsXcar2rkObW3lKSS2UeTYylOQqG3UOuR230Ue_7_CxgRYsL4Zcl8ccM-NwQGIfJkrodO0tIn8ZhEWyUE6c7_w/s1600/IMG_1117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjct4bwl96JXmBMYfEyGZq6KXGdObnPrQ7wgz8g6ULcql4UyduZFRH21EsXcar2rkObW3lKSS2UeTYylOQqG3UOuR230Ue_7_CxgRYsL4Zcl8ccM-NwQGIfJkrodO0tIn8ZhEWyUE6c7_w/s1600/IMG_1117.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I don't really get this sculpture. I guess it has to do with the trail being used for biking? It <i>is</i> at the end of a bike ramp down to the path. But I do like turning the wheel using the pedal. I love interactive sculpture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaoRs2oWghpoyJ9atF3phSjwmeulmsOUEHFopKgkS__ZLAv9nDMf-n0h2u3sIJY2oyqWYgLgYxcwhQ54VrqCpGnYpVFYnALlIvvRYmUsLmrGFgSALrDlZ5g6BPIOfcXEtn84pY4W7d_vY/s1600/IMG_1119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaoRs2oWghpoyJ9atF3phSjwmeulmsOUEHFopKgkS__ZLAv9nDMf-n0h2u3sIJY2oyqWYgLgYxcwhQ54VrqCpGnYpVFYnALlIvvRYmUsLmrGFgSALrDlZ5g6BPIOfcXEtn84pY4W7d_vY/s1600/IMG_1119.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This sculpture cracks me up! Someone stole the nameplate, but it's pretty obvious. A guy and his dogs made from bike parts! Just FYI, there are always a million dogs being walked on the path.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilEy3qXzBYTUEEuLA5ZzmXqOMLbhc1laqdZnJIyCJh64eCMBxLsRkCojlctQloG4m73LHQHshX3fke7nvNZala5QNVsJPmHT2CphhKVQzC5j1GqBJKH0P42oULcRfHjtjapJCQMM3zqwY/s1600/IMG_1120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilEy3qXzBYTUEEuLA5ZzmXqOMLbhc1laqdZnJIyCJh64eCMBxLsRkCojlctQloG4m73LHQHshX3fke7nvNZala5QNVsJPmHT2CphhKVQzC5j1GqBJKH0P42oULcRfHjtjapJCQMM3zqwY/s1600/IMG_1120.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The path crosses an old railroad bridge. The street below is Low Street, one of the few access points where the ramp goes up. Go figure. Ha!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0IG1aa3OsVQq4dd1kbH4ofhLYxrZD_enXNGfENlCuUnU1h3MU451vGMrB7GCLqCj-agJ9i_CCP-y1TKPdJDNeL0r4raQY4l26wWESO70gVnVFQAgJbk3F863swwN8N-IL_ygmT5TmP-I/s1600/IMG_1122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0IG1aa3OsVQq4dd1kbH4ofhLYxrZD_enXNGfENlCuUnU1h3MU451vGMrB7GCLqCj-agJ9i_CCP-y1TKPdJDNeL0r4raQY4l26wWESO70gVnVFQAgJbk3F863swwN8N-IL_ygmT5TmP-I/s1600/IMG_1122.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I don't really get this sculpture. Torrential Flight? For anyone who doesn't know me well, I like art that is what it says. I guess I'm not imaginative enough to appreciate a lot of modern art, or anything very interpretive.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5i2qiU-7g7ZRXP0F4RR55iON8-mDE6J_O7DVEUncyPIFjhbndRQ9It9XJuLQVfpuTU6zcyBFk5T72NNIieEYezQkrhgdw0LEFt6R5jRewRdZA1uJ06ruCJhp4ky2hyGPWBZWN8iGsow/s1600/IMG_1123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5i2qiU-7g7ZRXP0F4RR55iON8-mDE6J_O7DVEUncyPIFjhbndRQ9It9XJuLQVfpuTU6zcyBFk5T72NNIieEYezQkrhgdw0LEFt6R5jRewRdZA1uJ06ruCJhp4ky2hyGPWBZWN8iGsow/s1600/IMG_1123.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I do like this one. It's pretty cool, and I get it.</div>
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Newburyport is very cool in that it has a windmill that supplies a lot of energy. I always marvel at it. The windmill is <i>so</i> much bigger than it looks. This is a view from the trail. See the top?</div>
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This is a door at the very top. I once saw a man up there, and he didn't even fill the door. That perspective gives you an idea of how tall the windmill really is. It's <i>huge</i>.</div>
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There are lots of fun little gardens along the trail that local groups care for and plant.</div>
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One of my favorite parts of the trail (this won't be a shock to any of you), is the ice cream shop right off the trail! I think it's both hilarious and genius that they actually put a sign on the trail to indicate the path to ice cream. It's very good ice cream, by the way.</div>
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As you can see, they get lots of business off the trail!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1RuxegbqsMnwngnmj2s4wSta35z_Czz1Y9d1-x3Op_sCuq91mid1gSFxSnGlcwA-hfnJOPezyJIc0Nij12lFQeE39nZlBe41HEYWbiTC5G1BtwFYM6invGkMXIYJK8RLy7BQeyfDTKA/s1600/IMG_1135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1RuxegbqsMnwngnmj2s4wSta35z_Czz1Y9d1-x3Op_sCuq91mid1gSFxSnGlcwA-hfnJOPezyJIc0Nij12lFQeE39nZlBe41HEYWbiTC5G1BtwFYM6invGkMXIYJK8RLy7BQeyfDTKA/s1600/IMG_1135.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another sculpture I like. It's obvious!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7e7S6h6_nyK7ibwkyONdF2K_q3eurHBg3-25dwnbiciFTDHBPvnujAQtlTGj07Xf9-JrtRpCXKg5k3oPoD_pr0Vdd6FxuzBMQar8NQflrNzNavbOwHE-QL9WT_SUtlsWVdaUMU1JHCc/s1600/IMG_1136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7e7S6h6_nyK7ibwkyONdF2K_q3eurHBg3-25dwnbiciFTDHBPvnujAQtlTGj07Xf9-JrtRpCXKg5k3oPoD_pr0Vdd6FxuzBMQar8NQflrNzNavbOwHE-QL9WT_SUtlsWVdaUMU1JHCc/s1600/IMG_1136.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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What's really fun is that the Rail Trail ends at one end at the -- get ready -- actual train station! I've taken this train several times. It goes straight to Boston, and I'd rather take the train than drive. It's mostly a commuter train, though. You should see the parking lots during the week. They're packed.</div>
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Okay, we're turning around now…</div>
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First, a couple of things I didn't show above because people were in the picture.</div>
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This is probably one of my favorite sculptures on the trail. I love that the artist named him, and even more that he named him Clyde.</div>
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On this walk, I found one of these orange and black caterpillars! I haven't seen these since I last lived in Pittsburgh! I loved these caterpillars, even though they do terrible things. Just so you know, I moved this little guy off the path so he wouldn't get smushed. Plus, I love to feel their prickly little bodies and watch them curl up in a ball. So part altruistic and part selfish.</div>
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I adore this little train. It took a long time for me to get a picture of it without swarms of kids playing on it. I get on it, too, so I can't blame them.</div>
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Decorated walls. I really enjoy that. There are a lot of decorated bridges in Phoenix, and Seattle had some fun ones on overpasses. It's cool that cities add art to things that would otherwise be boring and/or ugly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvWRmMg80TVjPuf5FrW4EE89ogDzEH8xXTEzG3-mkpMBLVrpw1_kgp-lwwDVlhobKYJFQ_qFTdmyQUTbU-qaifSJ7Cv9ZfMSr5vudfc9RRAkC8zA9iVUZQ0LzUaZebeNUFcEqJ1aV7HXw/s1600/IMG_1155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvWRmMg80TVjPuf5FrW4EE89ogDzEH8xXTEzG3-mkpMBLVrpw1_kgp-lwwDVlhobKYJFQ_qFTdmyQUTbU-qaifSJ7Cv9ZfMSr5vudfc9RRAkC8zA9iVUZQ0LzUaZebeNUFcEqJ1aV7HXw/s1600/IMG_1155.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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A picture of the old train station.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCa6-q44KkQsetI2he1bTHZtdohy9KlUyjwqvA7D-w3_yw2nAs_GPVxfXfGRiXl_ULNdtP85bOdJxkF8B6K0gNYglsrcUMaO42vGddX13StGLLsNyBje5S6M7EHXx0OjPWOI3M186CtSQ/s1600/IMG_1158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCa6-q44KkQsetI2he1bTHZtdohy9KlUyjwqvA7D-w3_yw2nAs_GPVxfXfGRiXl_ULNdtP85bOdJxkF8B6K0gNYglsrcUMaO42vGddX13StGLLsNyBje5S6M7EHXx0OjPWOI3M186CtSQ/s1600/IMG_1158.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Along this part of the trail there are a bunch of birdhouses. I don't know who made them or why, but I just love them! Once you start looking for them, they are all over the place. These are only a few examples.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwqdWaqlZo_zjOV838Qim7XsmoVkjpUzgsb8asBzLfWgY_shCrQfE3A2S0IgYpFUyKZeFlUmgbr4rUqcK7021DwMLj7GSxqZhfmF4ulT-FJQLlpMt2m-9gHZhsz-ke3xqOLJpl2Tjs-4/s1600/IMG_1153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwqdWaqlZo_zjOV838Qim7XsmoVkjpUzgsb8asBzLfWgY_shCrQfE3A2S0IgYpFUyKZeFlUmgbr4rUqcK7021DwMLj7GSxqZhfmF4ulT-FJQLlpMt2m-9gHZhsz-ke3xqOLJpl2Tjs-4/s1600/IMG_1153.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qC3uNyPK5pgVIYq5JlKE5dUacgrXze3x4Pb3cjYM49MyN47Aj3uowlqVNkXX1LLyRRAxSLAZ4U4R_mX358dCKKw6s03A21g1WXt1a50CG1fn5DeXOWBgNIVCMTEMXL4MHrEUl6lApNA/s1600/IMG_1159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qC3uNyPK5pgVIYq5JlKE5dUacgrXze3x4Pb3cjYM49MyN47Aj3uowlqVNkXX1LLyRRAxSLAZ4U4R_mX358dCKKw6s03A21g1WXt1a50CG1fn5DeXOWBgNIVCMTEMXL4MHrEUl6lApNA/s1600/IMG_1159.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqpUwPSgixACFkhERl_usN-pTXKz8AlrkuzR9EmTG9GUCZJ6LtL2_JVPtWn1-sdlOXfV9uo-c5nRDnibFuXqmFpCeDjgwMge4qg7DuHzJm3ZTC_uyO1EiSg6PaercAbYdgknwGNXRSxM/s1600/IMG_1160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqpUwPSgixACFkhERl_usN-pTXKz8AlrkuzR9EmTG9GUCZJ6LtL2_JVPtWn1-sdlOXfV9uo-c5nRDnibFuXqmFpCeDjgwMge4qg7DuHzJm3ZTC_uyO1EiSg6PaercAbYdgknwGNXRSxM/s1600/IMG_1160.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yikes! A horrible event, but I'll admit that I love the picture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHPf17qoxQ1xBqdFLxoAj0Jsf8CLVyyOACRpVsjFEECH5em027MDQXhRQmcbQg-AMs6F6HYuAwy3kX5_aoQEENF5B36BN8G5bFd21oo5wg647i6PwJEbFgLPrdD1uactRt6WeEDXrLxSI/s1600/IMG_1162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHPf17qoxQ1xBqdFLxoAj0Jsf8CLVyyOACRpVsjFEECH5em027MDQXhRQmcbQg-AMs6F6HYuAwy3kX5_aoQEENF5B36BN8G5bFd21oo5wg647i6PwJEbFgLPrdD1uactRt6WeEDXrLxSI/s1600/IMG_1162.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Eventually the Rail Trail crosses another bridge and heads down to the Merrimack River.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5d6ChHesqrxqQRRBhGx2nvxo3e-KE_452gmBikQVHk2HBe4RqDaO1MGaRVP_teKUOWooLAdH4W6kbAjNz9-5m0tFyL14vYP82VqjMHqMDni486Ygblq6YOYGFQ4T3NP-1sNqwWE0x-Bw/s1600/IMG_1161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5d6ChHesqrxqQRRBhGx2nvxo3e-KE_452gmBikQVHk2HBe4RqDaO1MGaRVP_teKUOWooLAdH4W6kbAjNz9-5m0tFyL14vYP82VqjMHqMDni486Ygblq6YOYGFQ4T3NP-1sNqwWE0x-Bw/s1600/IMG_1161.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4QnhLEGV6YM6cFckzmVlgcScD286Mn58b2h7LylXyv7Q7k15vp4PDiu1z0tmIC_E0Gp1qdTN7IV1d-QrSt35XmQIEMUE9FZ5tSPkXBqex-ndWXjU7aLHvWzRZkwEkE8wRT0K_F2eYM0/s1600/IMG_1163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4QnhLEGV6YM6cFckzmVlgcScD286Mn58b2h7LylXyv7Q7k15vp4PDiu1z0tmIC_E0Gp1qdTN7IV1d-QrSt35XmQIEMUE9FZ5tSPkXBqex-ndWXjU7aLHvWzRZkwEkE8wRT0K_F2eYM0/s1600/IMG_1163.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Looking at the above picture, if you head up to the right, you come across a seating area and this sculpture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWQrlXRbzV6asqSktZ0Cs7ae8LgNJhSTr4kS5HCFWsS7s9P35ztx1A0-t5or3_nCW-nBdEbWQihUKPYmQE-Mbly1dCbfyCuzHvnvw3YUvaZqRLczvltKGKmwd7EFjv7VaiR3N8OMR4bQ/s1600/IMG_1164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWQrlXRbzV6asqSktZ0Cs7ae8LgNJhSTr4kS5HCFWsS7s9P35ztx1A0-t5or3_nCW-nBdEbWQihUKPYmQE-Mbly1dCbfyCuzHvnvw3YUvaZqRLczvltKGKmwd7EFjv7VaiR3N8OMR4bQ/s1600/IMG_1164.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is a picture of that area from below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mbslU9X-df5wP41Jg42t1awSivDty6aPUCjNEKqaY3CjiFw2ku2TIJTYAtrYl0UW38dJixdecxJ8OD6bSVMlZ8FUP3qpP7VJUap6CNF_69d_O3AdeulopIi2mAqbIwYdTNkKGjO3fkY/s1600/IMG_1168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mbslU9X-df5wP41Jg42t1awSivDty6aPUCjNEKqaY3CjiFw2ku2TIJTYAtrYl0UW38dJixdecxJ8OD6bSVMlZ8FUP3qpP7VJUap6CNF_69d_O3AdeulopIi2mAqbIwYdTNkKGjO3fkY/s1600/IMG_1168.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you head left and down, you get here:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWchf1ukCK8yyX_jihpPp-QcZeytMocofg5w7PZ8JJWCQKx5IzaChx3FS3pLpgyMChaO8UIJPIGVgJrFwxdkWAElOM7jDUL5dINLR8mAj8pAxsruaz3mJ86crs_5XQCRJUF4F04OpFZc8/s1600/IMG_1165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWchf1ukCK8yyX_jihpPp-QcZeytMocofg5w7PZ8JJWCQKx5IzaChx3FS3pLpgyMChaO8UIJPIGVgJrFwxdkWAElOM7jDUL5dINLR8mAj8pAxsruaz3mJ86crs_5XQCRJUF4F04OpFZc8/s1600/IMG_1165.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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You also get to this sculpture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKyddWoIkLuSj_QpHsDOLSLkr-VR1UYNkRkRrFibKRm0Mv7QZUowD1-oYhuglhAlTMvqhbWJ3V5gb6V7Wdlc2bDh52HHk8iv5IgHSDFTUKE80R8hWo-h4Ihjo7YmDf3aEL9rur77Q3zFk/s1600/IMG_1166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKyddWoIkLuSj_QpHsDOLSLkr-VR1UYNkRkRrFibKRm0Mv7QZUowD1-oYhuglhAlTMvqhbWJ3V5gb6V7Wdlc2bDh52HHk8iv5IgHSDFTUKE80R8hWo-h4Ihjo7YmDf3aEL9rur77Q3zFk/s1600/IMG_1166.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I do not get the title. Personally, I'd call it Hugs & Kisses. It looks like Xs and Os, and it's red! Sadly, no one asked me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7huhlz0WaNTuksBt8TtjjM0UHO-ANK_mt_GKKq63xgBggfzfzkBE3G93wXZN-FHCe5fgdkRTuWlZazrF1QN8g22-JhZKW-ypZiLlgTRQU7nXB_XPaFMIxeUC9CsGIUNW1Ili4cyg6sE/s1600/IMG_1167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7huhlz0WaNTuksBt8TtjjM0UHO-ANK_mt_GKKq63xgBggfzfzkBE3G93wXZN-FHCe5fgdkRTuWlZazrF1QN8g22-JhZKW-ypZiLlgTRQU7nXB_XPaFMIxeUC9CsGIUNW1Ili4cyg6sE/s1600/IMG_1167.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This sculpture creeps me out big time. I do not like it, Sam I Am.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-lFq4_VUHzE2NDZASmJjHgNRtUZVLCDfvF3rRFyPVH4qnOBYsFW9xrBVYz2IVcWYoKnOOsySUfBZ7h5uKonc83X8brgjlrQkHmlknlXjFLXotts7pf1u8g6O9cGv2A1ZlcV33bjE6Yk/s1600/IMG_1170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-lFq4_VUHzE2NDZASmJjHgNRtUZVLCDfvF3rRFyPVH4qnOBYsFW9xrBVYz2IVcWYoKnOOsySUfBZ7h5uKonc83X8brgjlrQkHmlknlXjFLXotts7pf1u8g6O9cGv2A1ZlcV33bjE6Yk/s1600/IMG_1170.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwLNnBiycS_vEtk6xIuts79eTmFfKhsoDYo2Bz7GOHaE4WUJzQsPjqs05kANg82cfPGjhhYuXwLy5dcC1Bpiq-CwD88Rx2bVQMOKZFVYLUlNRzfQ8fYLviFG8wk_Goar9Ep0lOuoZMgKY/s1600/IMG_1171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwLNnBiycS_vEtk6xIuts79eTmFfKhsoDYo2Bz7GOHaE4WUJzQsPjqs05kANg82cfPGjhhYuXwLy5dcC1Bpiq-CwD88Rx2bVQMOKZFVYLUlNRzfQ8fYLviFG8wk_Goar9Ep0lOuoZMgKY/s1600/IMG_1171.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then the path continues along the river. It's not the Rail Trail anymore. I don't know what it's officially called. I call it the River Trail.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvd4VdxgV-3HmK1Sx8iLskH6-qj7sXKFdCDc6_eR_p1mZiOUI_9qjE2aC23jzkobqo6SNKUBhtVeS0jyQRGf-6GrXQuO6hlCmH_2FBD5wyB-tZNqg6rql-rIj8-gIk1YVtvxvFCl4rvBw/s1600/IMG_1172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvd4VdxgV-3HmK1Sx8iLskH6-qj7sXKFdCDc6_eR_p1mZiOUI_9qjE2aC23jzkobqo6SNKUBhtVeS0jyQRGf-6GrXQuO6hlCmH_2FBD5wyB-tZNqg6rql-rIj8-gIk1YVtvxvFCl4rvBw/s1600/IMG_1172.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I would <i>love</i> to live in one of those condos. Sadly, I don't believe they were built for public servants. Ha!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUPu10bFSdfumKJQGTd0TgzHMEM4eumGmSAIUUS6_cQDHfNJFvLuYbDBhSCKuqCmn_8fZkCFbi15WDH3qgisS0H3EK6LOxKxFcxKARIwt9M3XXYPZOdpR1cX6T6lsgbPdlT3QVz3W2OA/s1600/IMG_1175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUPu10bFSdfumKJQGTd0TgzHMEM4eumGmSAIUUS6_cQDHfNJFvLuYbDBhSCKuqCmn_8fZkCFbi15WDH3qgisS0H3EK6LOxKxFcxKARIwt9M3XXYPZOdpR1cX6T6lsgbPdlT3QVz3W2OA/s1600/IMG_1175.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The path continues along the river, and various boat-loading and -unloading ramps (which I'm sure have a more official name) are seagull resting places when the ramps aren't in use.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTYlUsgbfjI2d7gQ5KxPFxGt-RtT8vtIWCXpcYAMgerEMyedjxgg0jJUza6Px2XPSMNB3CsMNzu0Y8_2GrCh2mCbtFhzdTTYaqu_CLMoVYT0OdC7sMF7L2HtNiugvyf9Uk68c2opZIFs/s1600/IMG_1176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTYlUsgbfjI2d7gQ5KxPFxGt-RtT8vtIWCXpcYAMgerEMyedjxgg0jJUza6Px2XPSMNB3CsMNzu0Y8_2GrCh2mCbtFhzdTTYaqu_CLMoVYT0OdC7sMF7L2HtNiugvyf9Uk68c2opZIFs/s1600/IMG_1176.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesTccktvJfi8_uDw6BHd9ciDXlGdMUrViC-74dY0E_UYIxmKok4a_MfgJJmJ9h60wDEdmug4qvBQSl_fIYgpYefDeBTiCzagz49JyWd3ssVg5fZCaGCaAYp6h4OFtk8yVIBNcd-3Ky1g/s1600/IMG_1177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesTccktvJfi8_uDw6BHd9ciDXlGdMUrViC-74dY0E_UYIxmKok4a_MfgJJmJ9h60wDEdmug4qvBQSl_fIYgpYefDeBTiCzagz49JyWd3ssVg5fZCaGCaAYp6h4OFtk8yVIBNcd-3Ky1g/s1600/IMG_1177.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Also, ducks! All over the place!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvXGxi-nHvxBy8360O7rmoYKMFy5jK2VEyv9wS-vtn1_Mx9ZpvKyf57baT1bEgZiHGHZdoLFIbWFPgEBGobSkkdh2lxI_7NKjI4jp_v71KsVU5X6L4IS1tR5uhC39-chPPsgWQp2aznI/s1600/IMG_1178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvXGxi-nHvxBy8360O7rmoYKMFy5jK2VEyv9wS-vtn1_Mx9ZpvKyf57baT1bEgZiHGHZdoLFIbWFPgEBGobSkkdh2lxI_7NKjI4jp_v71KsVU5X6L4IS1tR5uhC39-chPPsgWQp2aznI/s1600/IMG_1178.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is the end of the trail in this direction. The excellent thing is that I live one block from this end of the trail. I'm a lucky girl.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju640ryQEk6vgJTvqJGJCRZtAIe9u2VTnNBP-TAfRTvlIPyFPz8s0r-ywpAS1GBwe0IA97PYMzBAtbvI9pEKDYSnUizsR5Ur3zK85dy-fB5koVql6zVy7OFpmXyWT4bIwM1NygGobg0BE/s1600/IMG_1179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju640ryQEk6vgJTvqJGJCRZtAIe9u2VTnNBP-TAfRTvlIPyFPz8s0r-ywpAS1GBwe0IA97PYMzBAtbvI9pEKDYSnUizsR5Ur3zK85dy-fB5koVql6zVy7OFpmXyWT4bIwM1NygGobg0BE/s1600/IMG_1179.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Later, walking the River Trail in the other direction!</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-6716317211406207792014-03-22T16:34:00.000-07:002014-03-22T16:34:26.957-07:00A Very Potty Birthday to Me!So, my reputation for potty and poop humor is known far and wide, both personally and professionally. It paid off for my last birthday! Look at these fantastic cards and gift I got!<br />
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From the staff at work:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8AgNFZQIuqWV0GYqle9xGoP4jTeiBRnE_p3tJybNqtpvea_ngkpuoHspFaKDxz4XOy21NDXsc6jMpopKBRDf2MeQsOzLmXwloI51r8AhabNi7RTHd5i5NwSTruJu4Z9q_Mb2plP28t4/s1600/IMG_1079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8AgNFZQIuqWV0GYqle9xGoP4jTeiBRnE_p3tJybNqtpvea_ngkpuoHspFaKDxz4XOy21NDXsc6jMpopKBRDf2MeQsOzLmXwloI51r8AhabNi7RTHd5i5NwSTruJu4Z9q_Mb2plP28t4/s1600/IMG_1079.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Hahahahahahahahahahaha!</div>
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From my friend, Diane:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJpMA4Msb3Bq81HTElbFNkYlaC51uzJjKSOPf2Z8xjlLrbbxrC8368ThMl-hyLxDgxHxt1l-k7NxakjnWC14W-65d77PeddR9B_JFIF6wwap82JQziJ2KcsDQzP9Ln9dyEld4NMHjzP-k/s1600/IMG_1080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJpMA4Msb3Bq81HTElbFNkYlaC51uzJjKSOPf2Z8xjlLrbbxrC8368ThMl-hyLxDgxHxt1l-k7NxakjnWC14W-65d77PeddR9B_JFIF6wwap82JQziJ2KcsDQzP9Ln9dyEld4NMHjzP-k/s1600/IMG_1080.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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"It's a cute panda," you say. "Why is it here on this poopy post?" Well, here's why:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZo0JxrZ0eSNtLtpToqsksji_YAzyxNR9NbE5ey_toG2auTkLHKF2uC_Xe21QVVch0vDUmmfoIdOEp9mU2tl9TX_ABK0lLjwqvW_q4AbuHs63NX4V357J3_gfSA95kxWx4OrbntX121o/s1600/IMG_1081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZo0JxrZ0eSNtLtpToqsksji_YAzyxNR9NbE5ey_toG2auTkLHKF2uC_Xe21QVVch0vDUmmfoIdOEp9mU2tl9TX_ABK0lLjwqvW_q4AbuHs63NX4V357J3_gfSA95kxWx4OrbntX121o/s1600/IMG_1081.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yes, this card was made of PANDA POOP! Ha ha! </div>
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(In case you were wondering, it doesn't stink. I checked.)</div>
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Then this card from my sister:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgNnE0PTOe2a13CjwhgA_A0O6KgWD9Es7Su4lLncd_LxUhgr3tdlQ8Z27HWMhXpXRBRoi7fZyNLkrl407p0crTtnhSqAfzvIm9ZoWHhkEdmk_KOkjadMQI8dX4rIN1GKdX5sAgJ_1edk/s1600/IMG_1083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgNnE0PTOe2a13CjwhgA_A0O6KgWD9Es7Su4lLncd_LxUhgr3tdlQ8Z27HWMhXpXRBRoi7fZyNLkrl407p0crTtnhSqAfzvIm9ZoWHhkEdmk_KOkjadMQI8dX4rIN1GKdX5sAgJ_1edk/s1600/IMG_1083.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Oh, yes. Kittens in tighty-whiteys. Ha! Hope they were clean!</div>
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And finally, this most excellent gift from Paula:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEHnm9COlFTRY-EIxlpSzBsfAKJzRgKa6Qo3Yf5PlcESWkvnpiT26-EbYpzfRwnOz3y91OMs36CHWPAm2GMJe8saJcgecDEbfqOjSduWGZtEekD34I1a7vlz5FTbl6oJGI9VAp-g2lxw/s1600/IMG_1086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEHnm9COlFTRY-EIxlpSzBsfAKJzRgKa6Qo3Yf5PlcESWkvnpiT26-EbYpzfRwnOz3y91OMs36CHWPAm2GMJe8saJcgecDEbfqOjSduWGZtEekD34I1a7vlz5FTbl6oJGI9VAp-g2lxw/s1600/IMG_1086.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Are you confused? Allow me to elaborate:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3hCI06txdmTwIddgtxt0gjWemalSwoF1XeKVOoSYpGcCG7NxFQkjSx3AQRoMJT4rfxAVxFR2NXYV3OlLhmrzw0DP20kqGvsraxGQDJUrPrSc57rBKHgZaaEvxo6BHbAq6VUydjv4fbDA/s1600/IMG_1084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3hCI06txdmTwIddgtxt0gjWemalSwoF1XeKVOoSYpGcCG7NxFQkjSx3AQRoMJT4rfxAVxFR2NXYV3OlLhmrzw0DP20kqGvsraxGQDJUrPrSc57rBKHgZaaEvxo6BHbAq6VUydjv4fbDA/s1600/IMG_1084.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Oh, yes, it is. And Sterling LOVES it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisskzh_qk_8P0ESMyfXZ7yp29tzl7u0MPqrCqhCJHe5UbR5Ka59JRUNTOoxcC0hXZ6GMbvXGoW6K7N6wYZcQLtq8LYqum81JkmT85ZqYNvPuocsX5evgpKvWq14JCyzKp-07LW1Yfy2_I/s1600/IMG_1085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisskzh_qk_8P0ESMyfXZ7yp29tzl7u0MPqrCqhCJHe5UbR5Ka59JRUNTOoxcC0hXZ6GMbvXGoW6K7N6wYZcQLtq8LYqum81JkmT85ZqYNvPuocsX5evgpKvWq14JCyzKp-07LW1Yfy2_I/s1600/IMG_1085.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Look at the drinking action!</div>
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<br />Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119449991179819945.post-63668567250140197602014-03-18T20:55:00.001-07:002014-03-18T20:55:19.439-07:00We will return to our regular programming after this commercial...Okay, I don't know when I quite became this adult, but every once in a great while I fall in love with a household product.<br />
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The first time this happened, I was talking to my friend, Miranda, on the phone. She began waxing poetic about the <a href="http://www.swiffer.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=swiffer&utm_campaign=Swiffer_Search_Desktop_Brand+Awareness&utm_content=s6fHngn8V%7Cdc_17713312757_e_swiffer" target="_blank">Swiffer</a>. She loved the Swiffer so much that I began picturing her as a 1950s housewife in an apron dancing across her kitchen linoleum floor. Since this was not something I expected from her, I, of course, had to buy one. I love it. I love it, I love it, I love it! I hope I never have to live without a Swiffer! It's really quite ridiculous, but I can't help it.<br />
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I love those new commercials where someone leaves a box of Swiffer stuff on a front stoop, rings the doorbell and runs. Even though I am well aware that it's a commercial, I always think to the elderly couple or the man with one arm, "You will love it! You will love your Swiffer! You were so lucky to be chosen!"<br />
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And now it has happened again. With a garbage can. I've noticed that in my neighborhood our garbage men do not take tender loving care of our garbage cans. All up and down the street are broken garbage cans and missing lids. So I was on a quest when I first moved here: I wanted an unbreakable garbage can. I perused Lowe's and found…get ready…the <a href="http://www.webstaurantstore.com/rubbermaid-brute-fg264300gray-gray-44-gallon-trash-can/690FG2643GY.html" target="_blank">Brute</a>. For the past year and a half, I've watched garbage cans dying a violent death, but my can barely has a scratch.<br />
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However, I didn't fully recognize the Brute's indestructibility until this winter. I wish I had pictures to show you for this story, but I don't, so you'll just have to use your imagination. After a bunch of heavy snow, I lost my beloved garbage can. I knew he was somewhere, but we'd had terrible winds and feet of snow, and I didn't know where he had gone. I spent a couple of weeks walking on snow and ice poking down with a stick hoping to find it, but eventually had to give up and wait for warmer weather.<br />
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We got warmer weather, and I scanned the area where I thought my Brute might be. Finally, I came home one evening and saw a corner of my can! He was in one of the massive piles of snow at the corner of the driveway, where the snow plowed from the street AND the snow shoveled from the driveway had made the piles a good six or seven feet tall. I realized what had happened. We got our hugest snow on a Wednesday (I remember because I had to cancel our Crazy 8s math club at the Library). Wednesday is also garbage day. The garbage men must have come, tossed my can aside like usual, and then the plow must have come along and covered it up.<br />
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Anyway, to the rescue! I actually had to chip the Brute out. He was buried alternately under layers of snow and ice. I found both him (yes, he's a him) and the lid. The only problem was that the poor Brute was no longer a nice circle on top, but had been squished into an oval from having feet of snow on him for weeks. I couldn't get the lid on. However, let me point out that there were no cracks, no holes, no missing handles, not even a bent lip in my hardy Brute! The lid was in perfect condition, too!<br />
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I had faith in my Brute, though. I put him back in his usual place and set his lid against the wall. Two days later he had resumed his nice circle shape on top, and the lid fits as well as the day I bought him.<br />
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Seriously, the Brute is completely indestructible. I paid a bit more, but when I consider that one of my neighbors has purchased, no joke, <i>SEVEN</i> cheaper garbage cans in the last two years, all of which have broken, I definitely came out ahead. Plus, now I have another product to love. I love it, I love it, I love it!<br />
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So when you are in the market for a new garbage can, may I recommend the Brute. You will love him so much I bet you'll name him (although just the name Brute is pretty awesome). Like an African Grey Parrot he will live so long you'll have to put him in your will and bequeath him to one of your children.<br />
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If you happen to have a household product that you love so much you would marry it if you could, please share in the comments!Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00014934165517167929noreply@blogger.com0