tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35504425810339252542024-03-21T20:42:53.618+00:00This is Great BritainAmanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.comBlogger563125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-57883497476717017792012-05-30T15:46:00.000+01:002012-05-30T15:46:00.890+01:0030/5/12- The Olympic Torch!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A very exciting day in town- the Olympic torch passed through!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The town was buzzing, and there were many people (I hear 40,000) on the streets to cheer on the torch bearers. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This is my second time seeing the flame, my first being in 1988 for the Calgary Winter Olympics. How special to see it again! </span></div>
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<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-33809433714956681952012-05-23T09:44:00.000+01:002012-05-23T09:44:14.597+01:0023/5/12- Reading Rainbow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Anyone remember that show- I used to love it!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sharing what I am reading is my favorite blog to write, so glad to have some new books to chat about. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The first one was suggested to by Wendy in a previous reading blog post. It's a playfully written book about 11 year old Flavia, and her interest in all things science and investigation. In this book she is trying to solve a murder. There are a few more books in the Flavia series which I look forward to reading.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I am just finishing up this Margaret Atwood book (a charity shop purchase at 2.5o!). I enjoy Atwoods writing. (And of course have an affinity towards her as a fellow Canadian). There is no fuss about it, and its pretty blunt. A good book which stirred up memories of being a young girl. Any suggestions of other good Atwood books to read?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And finally this book. I will be honest and say I didn't really enjoy this book whilst I was reading it. It's short (only 150 pages) which made it fast read, but the instant I finished it, I wanted to read it again. By the end of the book the story finally came together and I had that "ah ha" moment. (I also tend to think that any book that wins a prize must be good- am I alone in thinking this?).</span></div>
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<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-33149361348378622902012-05-21T07:49:00.001+01:002012-05-21T07:49:31.440+01:0021/5/12-Weather...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It may look like Spring around here (with Summer coming soon), but it sure does not feel like it. Temps have been around 10 degrees with rain, for the last three weeks. Not nice. However, this week things look to be improving... Come on Spring! </span></div>
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<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-21627815750029169752012-05-19T19:20:00.001+01:002012-05-19T19:20:33.548+01:0019/5/12- Paint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I do enjoy seeing a bit of double denim. </div>
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<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-8392451054162370862012-05-16T21:59:00.002+01:002012-05-16T21:59:28.025+01:0016/5/12- Ducks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-54378285713074874452012-05-14T12:01:00.003+01:002012-05-14T12:01:57.576+01:0014/5/12- Stranded<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Last weekend on the way home from Scotland (see previous post) we found ourselves stranded in Perth. Quite a lovely town centre which made the unexpected stop not so bad. </span></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-51031165661920383542012-05-10T09:59:00.003+01:002012-05-10T10:00:50.580+01:0010/5/12- Snowboarding in Scotland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Skiing and snowboarding in Scotland in May. Wow. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The <a href="http://www.cairngormmountain.org/" target="_blank">Caringorm ski hill </a>(which we've been to before) had a terrible winter season with hardly any snow due to rain.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">They have been getting snow recently, and we just had to check it out.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VPdA-k1im59H_SPsAWwnI8ikDS8Z2GHTkBeJ2eb06mBFwSkFQdtOwRPRc_XRPdGUMAw8DX7BM4fUvf_yWEDToiApw3sKb8aKwREwG19U2jOqCh5uYZh1e3Ju6z4DOY9dGWFXWKr8fHcX/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VPdA-k1im59H_SPsAWwnI8ikDS8Z2GHTkBeJ2eb06mBFwSkFQdtOwRPRc_XRPdGUMAw8DX7BM4fUvf_yWEDToiApw3sKb8aKwREwG19U2jOqCh5uYZh1e3Ju6z4DOY9dGWFXWKr8fHcX/s400/IMG_1321.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Top of the hill- took a bit of climbing to get to. Nice snow.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8gj9VHia75DgVUqaevPGrHxmUvSaLuV-xf-IT7w2hcKfdSC7wGO5HS-wqiLv-Sc5XSM1KeaptSSfB9SYpoFUPPb_UJAPUCbzIKsRi-6eb7RsOozrDOTdQ6yLdoa9rGWfJoKwrpNUU_tC/s1600/IMG_1312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8gj9VHia75DgVUqaevPGrHxmUvSaLuV-xf-IT7w2hcKfdSC7wGO5HS-wqiLv-Sc5XSM1KeaptSSfB9SYpoFUPPb_UJAPUCbzIKsRi-6eb7RsOozrDOTdQ6yLdoa9rGWfJoKwrpNUU_tC/s400/IMG_1312.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Mid-station. Yikes! We had to do some walking here. No snow.</i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">From the second photo you can see the funicular mid-station on the right. When the hill does have snow you can ski from here all the way to the bottom (can just see the car park in the middle of the photo). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Yes, I've not been blogging for a month, I know...Apologies to my readers). </span></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-11031126289859172402012-04-10T14:48:00.002+01:002012-04-10T14:48:26.457+01:0010/4/12- Taste of Britain Tuesday- Easter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I hope everyone had a lovely Easter weekend! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I made these hot crossed buns on Good Friday, and it was my first time making hot crossed buns. I got the recipe from "<a href="http://thisisgreatbritain09.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/27312-my-new-fave-baking-book.html" target="_blank">The Great British Book of Baking</a>", and they worked out pretty well, only negative is seemed a little bit dry. I've also always wondered what the cross was made out of, and finally learned- how exciting! (It's the small things right?)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I also tried the Lemon Meringue Tart recipe for Easter Sunday dinner which was delish. I was going to share a photo of that, but it did not photograph well. It was darn good however!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The recipe book calls it a Lemon Meringue Tart rather than pie, as they explained that the pie is an American take on the British Lemon tart.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_CEDSFri0q7jodSjkVSNc0odioABv04uQKDb-Wf9tje7WYanWHBIe0IQTyeIkf3EqfFCyF-voNL3g6Dre9V_8x2ZCVzInoJKraRyGvsGlQhIhJbH2rYYRAGQl9eqiG4l_A8D2mQbzgsgH/s1600/IMG_1138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_CEDSFri0q7jodSjkVSNc0odioABv04uQKDb-Wf9tje7WYanWHBIe0IQTyeIkf3EqfFCyF-voNL3g6Dre9V_8x2ZCVzInoJKraRyGvsGlQhIhJbH2rYYRAGQl9eqiG4l_A8D2mQbzgsgH/s400/IMG_1138.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxLyU4zA1ygb1xpJxXX46x8_5bL_AMFrrOpK18w5hKJL8r26lTnGW6cp8IKsQrfyBaMpp55BUP-WAx8X12FkbrEEnCDl4sfctaRYTX57-QjfmKu5DXvNu8r-FHSVXePiiy3cyBlBOnTOX/s1600/IMG_1142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxLyU4zA1ygb1xpJxXX46x8_5bL_AMFrrOpK18w5hKJL8r26lTnGW6cp8IKsQrfyBaMpp55BUP-WAx8X12FkbrEEnCDl4sfctaRYTX57-QjfmKu5DXvNu8r-FHSVXePiiy3cyBlBOnTOX/s400/IMG_1142.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-68861869220637483432012-04-04T16:10:00.000+01:002012-04-04T16:10:23.815+01:004/4/12- Pardon?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It's April 4th and we got snow last night. I felt like I was back home in YYC. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Not impressed.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5yLDtDSLbPPx20AgJ87Z8VjnI4HSo5y5hv0vhYXsKbwn01bQwHSa96Bbevh25PcdJoCohlsFxjQafStoEqfVH_m-4gv1-CQ-_9ADMXKsxeYhDQLe1i3yKBkUVJvT35wBQpMF9ELabMmz/s1600/IMG_1135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5yLDtDSLbPPx20AgJ87Z8VjnI4HSo5y5hv0vhYXsKbwn01bQwHSa96Bbevh25PcdJoCohlsFxjQafStoEqfVH_m-4gv1-CQ-_9ADMXKsxeYhDQLe1i3yKBkUVJvT35wBQpMF9ELabMmz/s400/IMG_1135.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXxR66soRBKJUbHNN66TFkRldEbCqbI972h2tYUbF5kegb7APwqEpJAuY5SQ2HV88XYjt7bqJVcJSltdmT2t9yIgIfuzJ-u591gyhXkoNP1mE9P-iB9R4waArb7q15bj__8aKtC5HWNAZE/s1600/IMG_1136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXxR66soRBKJUbHNN66TFkRldEbCqbI972h2tYUbF5kegb7APwqEpJAuY5SQ2HV88XYjt7bqJVcJSltdmT2t9yIgIfuzJ-u591gyhXkoNP1mE9P-iB9R4waArb7q15bj__8aKtC5HWNAZE/s400/IMG_1136.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-64376794962112959612012-04-03T18:44:00.002+01:002012-04-03T18:44:36.070+01:003/4/12- Taste of Britain Tuesday- Chouquette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"<a href="http://www.thelittlepariskitchen.com/" target="_blank">Little Paris Kitchen</a>" is a new cooking show on tv here. The host is Rachel Khoo, a British gal who moved to Paris to attend <a href="http://www.cordonbleu.edu/" target="_blank">Le Cordon Bleu</a>. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have yet to buy her cookbook from the show, but have tried a few recipes that were posted online. Today I tried chouquettes - a French pastry. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">She suggested you could sprinkle the pastries with chocolate chips, or a granulated sugar, but I just used icing sugar this time around. (You can also make them savory by adding cheese). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Very easy to make, and with a delicious result- light and airy and so lovely! (By the time this post is finished, all of them will most likely be gone).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Like the other baking book <a href="http://thisisgreatbritain09.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/27312-my-new-fave-baking-book.html" target="_blank">I mentioned last week</a>, prepare to hear me mention Little Paris Kitchen in the near future. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I mean - a show that includes Paris and food? Amazing!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVLbEJaK8R10vXfdfbKFHTXeLfwviJLaxeYSaXFcWTk5X3M3mBpgdxgEOFChmJVR_3m1dARbXZzceRgno-aSy_TDwsOJvI3L9_Mx4ibCwiaSc_PjUKKKIjK5xbshh-SfcA7JGBtxkzE4IF/s1600/IMG_1132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVLbEJaK8R10vXfdfbKFHTXeLfwviJLaxeYSaXFcWTk5X3M3mBpgdxgEOFChmJVR_3m1dARbXZzceRgno-aSy_TDwsOJvI3L9_Mx4ibCwiaSc_PjUKKKIjK5xbshh-SfcA7JGBtxkzE4IF/s400/IMG_1132.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Before baking</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUkF1v9M4u62dkZrsw6lTyKcnH80BWzwaW3hTrsXDitqa2vjnm-3bdthaFKNyuwu04PWJKMJtMbZB_ePVpF2XsU61y5IJHE8p5gSeOGpYuvH8bpHqQdfTrW_ht22jxjNWpixxRzOZISfv/s1600/IMG_1133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUkF1v9M4u62dkZrsw6lTyKcnH80BWzwaW3hTrsXDitqa2vjnm-3bdthaFKNyuwu04PWJKMJtMbZB_ePVpF2XsU61y5IJHE8p5gSeOGpYuvH8bpHqQdfTrW_ht22jxjNWpixxRzOZISfv/s400/IMG_1133.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>After</i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-38812718798444110502012-03-29T09:43:00.001+01:002012-03-29T09:43:56.954+01:0029/3/12- Thoughtful Thursdays. The cost of words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Books can be expensive or cheap. You can get first editions that cost thousands, or go to a charity shop to get a book for 50p. Certain classics seem to be a dime a dozen at second hand shops, whilst sometimes your best bet is to get to the bookstore to get the newest release. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I read Hunger Games last week which I enjoyed, it was a fast read, and a quick escape. I ordered the next two books on Amazon and couldn't believe the difference in price. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If I were to buy the second and third books in Waterstones (chain bookstore) they would be around 7.99 (12.70 Canadian) each. However, I purchased them on Amazon and they were 7 pounds for two! How can you argue with that?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There is discussion that companies like Amazon are killing local bookstores as they just can't compete with those prices. But what's a girl to do? We have a few small independent bookshops in town, but how long will they be around? And can Waterstones compete with Amazon prices?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Oxfam's book shop (charity shop) in town has lots of books to choose from, and lots of new ones as well. I just bought "Room" from there for 2 pounds. However, its hard to find new releases or popular books. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What are your thoughts on this? Where do you get your books? The cheaper the better? Or if you can, do you support the independent stores?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGPm9275jRX5BMxenGD8BI7Q9mlLyUnBb6HpMQ8WafQtg-kuCsZGVJOUi7zlwKmHBmVrl5qIZNL12j6kH16opih8F2g8Ltl0tINe0QU3mc25Plp2OemZANz3NbKPEsr3OTtzPWBCKXhzY/s1600/thrilld_121854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGPm9275jRX5BMxenGD8BI7Q9mlLyUnBb6HpMQ8WafQtg-kuCsZGVJOUi7zlwKmHBmVrl5qIZNL12j6kH16opih8F2g8Ltl0tINe0QU3mc25Plp2OemZANz3NbKPEsr3OTtzPWBCKXhzY/s400/thrilld_121854.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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<i>Reminds me of Shakespeare & Co in Paris. <a href="http://www.thrilld.com/post/519370">Source</a>.</i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-74169833874677551042012-03-28T16:44:00.003+01:002012-03-28T16:44:50.312+01:0028/2/12- Patty is back!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This week we've had such glorious weather, it's been fantastic! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lots of bare legs (and shirtless teenage boys), summer dresses and ice cream is happening round here this week. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I took Patty out for a ride yesterday, my first of the season. Patty is my super-fast-sporty-"I feel like I am in a race"- cycle. She did well on her first day out this year.</span></div>
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<i>Spring has sprung! </i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-31629712072218813192012-03-27T10:41:00.002+01:002012-03-27T10:42:50.915+01:0027/3/12- My new fave baking book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For todays '<a href="http://thisisgreatbritain09.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Taste%20of%20Britain">Taste of Britain Tuesdays</a>' I am going to talk about a recent addition to my bookshelf. 'The Great British Book of Baking' is a cookbook based on a show of the same name. This book is from last seasons show. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The premise of the show is exactly what you would guess. Contestants create delightful British baked goods to win the title of Great British Baker (or something of that sort). The show is filmed in a marquee tent on the grounds of some country house, and is so visually appealing to watch. Last year a chap by the name of Edd Kimber won, and has now come out with his own baking book <a href="http://theboywhobakes.co.uk/">"The Boy who Bakes"</a>. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>(Give him a follow on twitter if you like reading about baking and all things related).</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I've made three recipes from this book so far and all have been amazing. Banana bread, brownies and scones. (All very simple recipes I know. But if they can give me successful simple recipes, I have faith in the more difficult ones). Over the past few years of living here I've tried to find a good scone recipe, and this book has it. Amazing.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Not to mention the amazing recipes, the book itself is a treat to own. Lovely illustrations, nice recipe layout, great paper (I think the type of paper in a book is important!). The neat thing, is at the start of each chapter they talk about that genre of baking and what it's all about. Like biscuits- where did they come from? What makes them special? How did they factor in Britain's history?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have a feeling you will be hearing about this book more in the upcoming months. </span></div>
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<i>Drool worthy pics, and nice recipe layout.</i></div>
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<i>How lovely!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB03BtQNUn-ipADn87YofZVv9L9iKDwTUtok9x_mg5vdMvIyFbrukPwido8iKXs_gx_6qAKBK0CxxwV5echvMDWLQIlWVJk-HK-Il0VR_z_vzzXja5VyrfNqZWyfzUfCpqdv2qVxY0MzEi/s1600/IMG_1115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB03BtQNUn-ipADn87YofZVv9L9iKDwTUtok9x_mg5vdMvIyFbrukPwido8iKXs_gx_6qAKBK0CxxwV5echvMDWLQIlWVJk-HK-Il0VR_z_vzzXja5VyrfNqZWyfzUfCpqdv2qVxY0MzEi/s400/IMG_1115.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Intro to the pudding section. Everything you wanted to know about puddings!</i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-88047405285813095052012-03-26T09:43:00.002+01:002012-03-26T09:43:36.061+01:0026/3/12- Feels like home!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Happy Monday! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If you are reading this from the UK then I am sure you enjoyed some beautiful weather this weekend- wasn't it lovely? It was around 17 degrees here! The rest of the week should be similar. How exciting that Spring has arrived! For those in Calgary, how is the snow? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A few weeks ago a group of gals and myself went down to London to celebrate a hen do. This was my first British hen do, and yes, it is very similar to a Canadian 'stagette'. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One of our events on the saturday afternoon was to head to the Ice Bar in London for a drink. No one in the group had been to an ice bar, (Not even our lovely Swedish friend where the original ice bar is located) so we were all pretty excited about it. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It was a neat experience for the weekend, though not something you'd do on a regular basis I am sure. You end up being in the room for 45 min, having a drink in a ice glass, and being surrounded by walls of ice. Music is pumping and lights are constantly changing to give it this club atmosphere. Can't forget to mention the lovely hooded capes we were give to keep ourselves warm during the experience.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mNarYjKhT0alQoEeUIfR5niiIHL7ETNbzj8sreLEhWL2ZdS4k4PYm1HTErwbLE-1CpLkxHNmlYoQE-2SYa-lHQezMTC4QiWywovUPJ_SzCvmwkhYGNqoc2xDD0BsqvZcGsNqwofqdHEf/s1600/IMG_1990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mNarYjKhT0alQoEeUIfR5niiIHL7ETNbzj8sreLEhWL2ZdS4k4PYm1HTErwbLE-1CpLkxHNmlYoQE-2SYa-lHQezMTC4QiWywovUPJ_SzCvmwkhYGNqoc2xDD0BsqvZcGsNqwofqdHEf/s400/IMG_1990.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>The hooded capes you got to wear. Gloves were included as well!</i></div>
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<i>The ice glasses and bar. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2y1c-9qUIHG5zTJPsIXG3Gbannuc_FBv3YgwPsWVjkLhBDXjmVzaKllHmLXgxC2uDhahQG74SMiFKLKaM_I6tSwSl8um7mrPParDOvvLEOY3o5v-a0ycGo8RJuL1mMs0eLWKmXuzZKjEm/s1600/IMG_0846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2y1c-9qUIHG5zTJPsIXG3Gbannuc_FBv3YgwPsWVjkLhBDXjmVzaKllHmLXgxC2uDhahQG74SMiFKLKaM_I6tSwSl8um7mrPParDOvvLEOY3o5v-a0ycGo8RJuL1mMs0eLWKmXuzZKjEm/s400/IMG_0846.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This week I am excited to get some DIY started again, so watch this space. </span></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-22952126029139609952012-03-21T12:24:00.001+00:002012-03-21T12:24:22.740+00:0021/3/12- Not always picturesque<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I like to take pretty pictures. Lovely scenes that make you go 'oooh' and 'ah'. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The majority of my photos around town are categorized in that genre. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One day I found myself waiting under a train bridge, by an art studio, waiting to meet a man about renting out a space there. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Below is a kebab shop called 'The Flaming Great'. Every time I walk by this place I think of two things from home. The Calgary Flames, and my lovely Greek friend. My mind keeps thinking this says 'Flaming Greek' hence why I think of my Greek friend. I am ok with that.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KEvC0gGQXCsdhz0TP2swOarBZ0uXa5cUgccV88IO7ADYTRf6NfjdYfEM1W6WR7C_FtyhnNPx-nq-MOuwAsPD-b2A6GAc6cckyDDxB_lPlOavqC5E6PxdwLZikN9iaCdEb7jOd6k1EZpo/s1600/IMG_0945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KEvC0gGQXCsdhz0TP2swOarBZ0uXa5cUgccV88IO7ADYTRf6NfjdYfEM1W6WR7C_FtyhnNPx-nq-MOuwAsPD-b2A6GAc6cckyDDxB_lPlOavqC5E6PxdwLZikN9iaCdEb7jOd6k1EZpo/s400/IMG_0945.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-89461888876332642032012-03-19T13:47:00.000+00:002012-03-19T13:47:20.865+00:0017/3/12- Happy Paddys Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Happy Paddy's Day!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(I know, it was two days ago- but we were too busy celebrating for me to post!)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I made <a href="http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2011/03/14/irish-car-bomb-cupcakes/">these cupcakes</a> in celebration of the day, and I have to tell you that they turned out amazing. I think using Guinness in the cake allows the cakes to stay moist, and you really can't taste it (just in case you are not a fan). I highly suggest giving these a try next year, or for any old reason.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">100% positive feedback from all that I gifted these to, and I think I will make them again next year. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We had a fantastic Paddy's day. Its not about green beer or leprechauns as the day has become in North America. We are lucky to celebrate with a fantastic group of Irish lads and lassies, and plenty of Guinness was consumed. </span></div>
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<i>Measuring out the Guinness in my matryoshka doll measuring cup</i></div>
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<i>Lovely, chocolatey, Guinness cakes</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yrXESbXuzVO2bJPk3YxoPcVm0-pxEWBSLKC1fl5_LXgibUYPxSH10CPC49s-heH_nb7K8Raojwo-qvkMVvWTfPVAztp5bTb4-994x1Q1-90nZZ2F0hlhiSXi8_frzZohimOXLkkmZ-2x/s1600/IMG_0970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yrXESbXuzVO2bJPk3YxoPcVm0-pxEWBSLKC1fl5_LXgibUYPxSH10CPC49s-heH_nb7K8Raojwo-qvkMVvWTfPVAztp5bTb4-994x1Q1-90nZZ2F0hlhiSXi8_frzZohimOXLkkmZ-2x/s320/IMG_0970.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>A bit of Baileys in the icing...</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzfLWEw5txESoTxw437UHId-E9Nji3fgsJkQ_YVBEWN2Oe87krJHIt3YkPLG97VmJ0NgutF3zLgh6xl1ZJ_rG1bMo8HaY45aDMul6REzvHIkKlaRyAfXmC2P2DTHI1n5FPAGp_54wZ9lN/s1600/IMG_0971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzfLWEw5txESoTxw437UHId-E9Nji3fgsJkQ_YVBEWN2Oe87krJHIt3YkPLG97VmJ0NgutF3zLgh6xl1ZJ_rG1bMo8HaY45aDMul6REzvHIkKlaRyAfXmC2P2DTHI1n5FPAGp_54wZ9lN/s320/IMG_0971.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>And whiskey in the chocolate ganache</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMgEHgFTHsqX6HP0TmjBExI85clHGtisW2rj8vaeNhObVaj_kJFf5JoLtdVVvQaBoBwTBj_iHkUI33gJ_tc1VJzaqtC4hEOFkfi6FNcJ6UnD5LpGSNBMXOVUXUZhLXQNcM06rMjoh2KYq/s1600/IMG_0972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMgEHgFTHsqX6HP0TmjBExI85clHGtisW2rj8vaeNhObVaj_kJFf5JoLtdVVvQaBoBwTBj_iHkUI33gJ_tc1VJzaqtC4hEOFkfi6FNcJ6UnD5LpGSNBMXOVUXUZhLXQNcM06rMjoh2KYq/s320/IMG_0972.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Finished product!</i></div>
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<i>Chocolate ganache in the centre </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6KQ-SkzCREDlI0uKKMoZOkbC8xyh9uYf-14fykKdUjJ0b7jLMeCr7Wd2JQPllZk7sHMD6BOuqbwoKCm89A5Jbl1E3_xtldwjBY-jbBKDA-X_2HRH8Z2ezzMrdU50yxQTqSIAcdm20Lzj/s1600/IMG_0974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6KQ-SkzCREDlI0uKKMoZOkbC8xyh9uYf-14fykKdUjJ0b7jLMeCr7Wd2JQPllZk7sHMD6BOuqbwoKCm89A5Jbl1E3_xtldwjBY-jbBKDA-X_2HRH8Z2ezzMrdU50yxQTqSIAcdm20Lzj/s320/IMG_0974.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Happy Paddys Day!</i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-64091340589147104612012-03-14T15:29:00.001+00:002012-03-14T15:29:31.265+00:0014/3/12- Page turning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I think blogging about books is one of my fave parts of this blog- not only do I get to share what I am reading, but most importantly I get to hear what YOU are reading which I love.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I've just put in an Amazon order with a few books that you, my lovely readers, have suggested. In the meantime here is what's sitting on my shelf. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilV3sZ-mfXL6nSjlVe2AcO-k05fGI-RDOiaTI4HCmFyUW_Pv-rFdDJuFbj7eqJlUi1nq9Gsvm6eX4CLeqE2cjaHjZp-mKtqlH9j4hhGHYRyDB08ydA5dgd6E-zJigFTn5NFOnK00K3B15K/s1600/IMG_0962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilV3sZ-mfXL6nSjlVe2AcO-k05fGI-RDOiaTI4HCmFyUW_Pv-rFdDJuFbj7eqJlUi1nq9Gsvm6eX4CLeqE2cjaHjZp-mKtqlH9j4hhGHYRyDB08ydA5dgd6E-zJigFTn5NFOnK00K3B15K/s400/IMG_0962.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I've not started reading this yet, but I am very interested to see what its like. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdDWpbBuD3mpe71EdfugNpzeEn7LICGG3n3q6BgMyA_QIZkuPDNgTsqnL17qEBw3gdvTaph2SOMjF8yyzaNkm_P4EfPz2P5J0hLq1j6rpc0fCY21jfLp7jOmeJttu71Gcmz_YkdA8YSRrd/s1600/IMG_0963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdDWpbBuD3mpe71EdfugNpzeEn7LICGG3n3q6BgMyA_QIZkuPDNgTsqnL17qEBw3gdvTaph2SOMjF8yyzaNkm_P4EfPz2P5J0hLq1j6rpc0fCY21jfLp7jOmeJttu71Gcmz_YkdA8YSRrd/s400/IMG_0963.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I've just finished 'Watching Willow Watts' by the lovely <a href="http://talliroland.blogspot.com/">Talli Roland</a>. I've had the chance to 'meet' Talli via twitter and her blog, so it was delightful reading one of her books. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigrM0q_LlHTLSOpsuR_wAxHSigTYHypLgMZYhpqAC-zW50JS7fn9FA4NQjgImXYDRDmtOeUKwMK_ui1SSSV0mTPJh9NmDn-XYN7hsNcL0s_TcVH1gO2KjUsJgjDkoBAlMYgzqwDiglhX8K/s1600/IMG_0964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigrM0q_LlHTLSOpsuR_wAxHSigTYHypLgMZYhpqAC-zW50JS7fn9FA4NQjgImXYDRDmtOeUKwMK_ui1SSSV0mTPJh9NmDn-XYN7hsNcL0s_TcVH1gO2KjUsJgjDkoBAlMYgzqwDiglhX8K/s400/IMG_0964.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Really interested to get stuck in with this book as I've heard a lot about it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpM7PEQYjAPexlt_a6bVK4D7qdv-dbgC6EJ-Vb8yviLEZsH5vfdnNZKxFf61pjAdQPEOeSqaccR6p5msj4-7R_Mq0sd3Y1XMUo3sB4qyxzxVGFo2p4QYKvz1kplag_FnWpJ-AXfW3KqorD/s1600/IMG_0965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpM7PEQYjAPexlt_a6bVK4D7qdv-dbgC6EJ-Vb8yviLEZsH5vfdnNZKxFf61pjAdQPEOeSqaccR6p5msj4-7R_Mq0sd3Y1XMUo3sB4qyxzxVGFo2p4QYKvz1kplag_FnWpJ-AXfW3KqorD/s400/IMG_0965.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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This months Oh Comely mag- YAY! I mentioned this mag in my last post <a href="http://thisisgreatbritain09.blogspot.com/2012/01/23112-what-are-you-reading.html">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2PdSYSplg4t5vnYXSfU-bCQ0Mae781nztLg1j43SOPz8NYB2rGwf1Vv6tFI3QwedFdWgXDWBaVEFtmhvt6YVRFspR2SRIPPqOQJnRDhh334_niizARFjfFvJ8YwSElmjx2ux8jsLZ3NU/s1600/IMG_0966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2PdSYSplg4t5vnYXSfU-bCQ0Mae781nztLg1j43SOPz8NYB2rGwf1Vv6tFI3QwedFdWgXDWBaVEFtmhvt6YVRFspR2SRIPPqOQJnRDhh334_niizARFjfFvJ8YwSElmjx2ux8jsLZ3NU/s400/IMG_0966.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i>One of the illustrations in this months Oh Comely. How cute (and true!). </i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So tell me- what are YOU reading?</span></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-27856518948715002592012-03-12T15:08:00.000+00:002012-03-12T15:08:22.579+00:0012/3/12- Comfort food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A few weeks ago Alice from <a href="http://www.quaintliving.com/">Quaint Living</a> posted <a href="http://www.quaintliving.com/2012/01/maple-pecan-granola/">this lovely recipe</a> for homemade granola. I think granola is a comfort breakfast, and I enjoy that you can make it yourself! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I highly suggest giving this recipe a try, it's nice to adjust the seeds/nuts/fruit yourself according to your tastes. Not only that but granola is healthy breakfast and makes the house smell lovely when its toasting. Thanks Alice! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXrt4_3DQh6T8r7_d_yr77x5ljau8YOdJLUH4U1MtTBBfupjUUq0ZarCWPo1E1b_xyYdV2gstQO5AJpyKV46opLjxoSRsuezTsOCkWWqMoAhPp_RHMm3IKaCbYeqbFMs-fAA7rS5xSgxz/s1600/IMG_0581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXrt4_3DQh6T8r7_d_yr77x5ljau8YOdJLUH4U1MtTBBfupjUUq0ZarCWPo1E1b_xyYdV2gstQO5AJpyKV46opLjxoSRsuezTsOCkWWqMoAhPp_RHMm3IKaCbYeqbFMs-fAA7rS5xSgxz/s400/IMG_0581.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Lovely golden granola toasting away</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgluvMjyVYhQQ__NUAe1qysWCWwkmmnSXsHuQIso75b_ZwQWTdehe1t4JuM_OKLNqf1V51WRhOFl2NcUsjK48kZxxDMxLU8t70u02ZlfGQcFU4rnPcmzt_E0WObzdws57DAsNeu9Pt3STjm/s1600/IMG_0941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgluvMjyVYhQQ__NUAe1qysWCWwkmmnSXsHuQIso75b_ZwQWTdehe1t4JuM_OKLNqf1V51WRhOFl2NcUsjK48kZxxDMxLU8t70u02ZlfGQcFU4rnPcmzt_E0WObzdws57DAsNeu9Pt3STjm/s400/IMG_0941.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>This batch included walnuts, sunflower seeds, sliced almonds and dried fruit</i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-81790540138623926092012-03-11T20:45:00.002+00:002012-03-11T20:45:28.005+00:0011/3/12- Cycle Sundays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cycle Sundays!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I've not rode my bikes since September, I think its time to get back out there. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6PBizqqfsC_LqTAkppGh8_J9OX_CX_eDAQWVI0uXYhUD0SMYogbt450USgrFi2tj690kmYCJFOK7IRzObHyMdJJPnr2j7uQlDhzYEZopsVqFMJGVNr685l-lcZ1qz6my1I9235PGuXkJ/s1600/IMG_0831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6PBizqqfsC_LqTAkppGh8_J9OX_CX_eDAQWVI0uXYhUD0SMYogbt450USgrFi2tj690kmYCJFOK7IRzObHyMdJJPnr2j7uQlDhzYEZopsVqFMJGVNr685l-lcZ1qz6my1I9235PGuXkJ/s400/IMG_0831.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Taken at Camden market last weekend</i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-1434803724337762482012-03-09T08:26:00.002+00:002012-03-09T08:27:41.424+00:008/3/12- Thoughtful Thursdays- Challenges<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thoughtful Thursdays is something I started last week....thought I'd drop a new feature in the blog to keep me motivated and to change things up a bit. Now, I like to keep things light here, so I probably won't start talking about politics, the financial crisis or the new topic that has lit up the internet- Kony 2012. (If you've read this blog for a while you know it's all about crafts, baking and flowers ;)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Yesterday after a yoga session, I worked on mastering the headstand. (This is being done over many sessions, not just one!) I've done yoga for a good amount of time, and am finding I need challenge in poses, and have decided to take on <a href="http://www.lululemon.com/community/blog/five-steps-to-headstand/">this</a>. (By the way, I miss Lululemon).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It got me thinking about challenges in our daily lives, and how I think I need to take on more of them. Nothing wrong with a bit of personal challenge...so this is mine right now.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What's yours?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_YbuHNJ9DiLhkhVWZ2ELyZP4wOzjm5-es3Je2KDzoBasYgGNv4HxgPn-1AsKU18DJetG4HF5yMhyBZqDLneXwNjjhd6HDqy2HvoMVlUQ1t0st9YLGmY-tq7lX8F4M_oPZObbI6msVoyn/s1600/IMG_0730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_YbuHNJ9DiLhkhVWZ2ELyZP4wOzjm5-es3Je2KDzoBasYgGNv4HxgPn-1AsKU18DJetG4HF5yMhyBZqDLneXwNjjhd6HDqy2HvoMVlUQ1t0st9YLGmY-tq7lX8F4M_oPZObbI6msVoyn/s400/IMG_0730.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-35914356673560493302012-03-07T15:44:00.001+00:002012-03-07T15:44:31.047+00:007/3/12- The gift of cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A friend made me a lovely earl gray tea loaf recently- what a cute way to wrap it up!</span></div>
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<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-66650109202505247042012-03-05T14:51:00.001+00:002012-03-05T14:51:32.588+00:005/3/12- Adventures in fruit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have you ever tried quince? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A local grocery store was selling some, along with a recipe for roasted quince so I decided to try it. The recipe sounded like I was making a batch of mulled wine, and the house smelled like that as it was baking. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The inside of a quince. Quite hard to cut through, and looked like an apple on the inside. The seeds were scooped out. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Ki0N2fcwSvkLHK1cuhavxcIz1bGNAfvRdsgHXRKJU0EkElWfNfvXrJ16GJxwG9T84U9lWYvxlhukbgMeycmk7beEsKI7NDJT4XMWjE051OiSXiLGQQJdquP2IfDxrtYal54l3_wqwgvJ/s1600/IMG_0738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Ki0N2fcwSvkLHK1cuhavxcIz1bGNAfvRdsgHXRKJU0EkElWfNfvXrJ16GJxwG9T84U9lWYvxlhukbgMeycmk7beEsKI7NDJT4XMWjE051OiSXiLGQQJdquP2IfDxrtYal54l3_wqwgvJ/s400/IMG_0738.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cut side down in a baking tray, cloves piercing the skin. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A mixture of red wine, lemon, honey and cinnamon sticks were poured over.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's then put in the oven for an hour and 15 min. What you are left with is quite a soft-wine-infused fruit that has the texture of a pear, and is nice with ice cream. Saying that I didn't love it, and it seemed like a long time and a lot of effort for a few spoons of a fruit. </span></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-47611615847260842332012-03-01T14:28:00.002+00:002012-03-01T14:31:16.953+00:001/3/12- Thoughtful Thursdays- Spring is coming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is it just me, or does Spring feel like its coming? (I apologize if you are in YYC and its snowing and -18). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The sun is out in the 'Shire today, and all of a sudden I've noticed on Pinterest all the lovely springy feeling pins. They make me want to dust off my sewing machine, get outside, and enjoy that lovely Springy feeling! </span> </div>
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<i>Create some homemade bunting for the garden via <a href="http://candacetodd.blogspot.com/2011/01/2010-sewing.html">Sparkle Power</a></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCodUMdVVPrHsomYXvfYCjIFpit6qA8a-LdWVmCtRIUQA4N0WjfmX1XP451Uu1cTgqgEdtMhpYp2GTfIfnFk50cf8TmfG_bnzRuTWjet4EBXnFUZk3Tz-8eoXNy4b11R0zuYbggfqTSuTE/s1600/199213983486697611_7vhuTdo2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCodUMdVVPrHsomYXvfYCjIFpit6qA8a-LdWVmCtRIUQA4N0WjfmX1XP451Uu1cTgqgEdtMhpYp2GTfIfnFk50cf8TmfG_bnzRuTWjet4EBXnFUZk3Tz-8eoXNy4b11R0zuYbggfqTSuTE/s320/199213983486697611_7vhuTdo2_b.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="124" /></a></div>
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<i>Plant a wee veg patch via <a href="http://boyslife.org/hobbies-projects/funstuff/7222/plant-a-compact-vegetable-garden/">Boys Life</a></i></div>
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<i>Jazz up your lemonade via <a href="http://blog.iloveeco.be/2011/06/maak-zelf-een-fleurige-limonade/">I Love Eco Blog</a></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIruAYBfQwe1bW4L3Agj7uEh_Y-NzVLrq1Tz75zhvEFbS50Ygxt44MW8vvE2IOalaljjhn0Cy33RFA3Mj7f6BLP7DyXcP33cwhqUOwYkcaTrVgGXufwUMK_YcfQTV7fj6UcAxvj7luiM2H/s1600/81487074477688677_LTxALleI_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIruAYBfQwe1bW4L3Agj7uEh_Y-NzVLrq1Tz75zhvEFbS50Ygxt44MW8vvE2IOalaljjhn0Cy33RFA3Mj7f6BLP7DyXcP33cwhqUOwYkcaTrVgGXufwUMK_YcfQTV7fj6UcAxvj7luiM2H/s400/81487074477688677_LTxALleI_f.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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<i>Lovely interior florals from <a href="http://www.79ideas.org/2012/03/collection-inspired-by-garden-flowers.html">79 ideas</a></i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-15906929821440311592012-02-29T11:20:00.003+00:002012-02-29T11:20:43.702+00:0029/2/12- Snow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last week we took a ski/snowboard trip to <a href="http://www.les3vallees.com/en/home-page.1.l2/">The Three Valleys</a> in France. The Three Valleys are the largest linked ski area in the world. The world...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Villages included in the Three Valleys are: Courchevel, La Tania, Meribel, Brides les Bains, Les Menuires, St. Martin, Val Thorens, and Orelle. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The area gives you 600km of skiable piste (or 600km of 'runs') and that does not include all of the off piste, which is basically everywhere. I didn't understand the sheer size of this place till we arrived and started making our way around each area. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are from home and you know the size of Sunshine. I'd say each of the village's area are around <i>twice</i> the size of Sunshine's skiable area. Insane. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Three Valleys also has this Escapade pass. It is a good way to see all areas of the Three Valleys, and a good challenge too. There are 18 checkpoints around the hill which when you scan your lift pass is tracked that you've been there. Once you've hit all 18 lifts you get a certificate and pin. It forced us to go all the way east and west, to the highest and lowest points on the hill. <i>(Our chalet hosts were very impressed that we achieved this!)</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lots of scenery photos were taken, so I've shared just a few below. We couldn't get enough of the amazing views and stunning scenery.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I see a second visit to The Three Valleys one day. </span></div>
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<i>Day one. We were at one of the higher points in the valley, hence the blue sky. The rest of the skiing area is below all that lovely white cloud. One of those ski days where you couldn't see a thing.</i></div>
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<i>On day two, we could finally see where we were going! The temps got to +15 by our final day! It was blue skies and sunny all week. (Except for the first day of course).</i></div>
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<i>Apres ski- This chairlift goes through the village of Val Thorens, and over some mighty fine apres ski area. (See the hot tub?)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZjLbAgb7NdWpkYBivjOp6AyKJ33QOUW6Nn0oUJOyza66Qyeb6tIe95f0YE_HrENwKo5G34CbizQ2i-x2vpQP6zv2DbP5KgVJ69dCSRJNqOlloiRLLeou6laai3LV9XHnVNY8j3CrpQka/s1600/IMG_0698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZjLbAgb7NdWpkYBivjOp6AyKJ33QOUW6Nn0oUJOyza66Qyeb6tIe95f0YE_HrENwKo5G34CbizQ2i-x2vpQP6zv2DbP5KgVJ69dCSRJNqOlloiRLLeou6laai3LV9XHnVNY8j3CrpQka/s400/IMG_0698.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>The view from 10,600 feet. </i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550442581033925254.post-67048948810518853192012-02-27T18:52:00.000+00:002012-02-27T18:52:27.710+00:0027/2/12- A time to start fresh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have to thank you all for the amazing comments on my last post.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They were inspiring, thoughtful, positive, caring and full of motivation for myself to continue on. Everyone <i>(or in Calgary we'd say y'all)</i> has given me some great ideas for new posts like art, music, more recipes, local interest, crafts and baking. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's also so uplifting to hear that you are enjoying what I do write about, and would like to hear more. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The last week of snowboarding in France was a great break, and gave me time to reflect and gather some new ideas to keep going, and make "This is Great Britain" even better. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzQzI61ztUpm32wSs0TKhMuo184X67_Zzv9z4vrn8cquQRY91_HF_4abfQdHd-S7PJytp67OOd1lMmIllBerW6xZoEN5pKIXYgKy96U6VrM_XIwrxtRG6EJr62VA7WcrAQ7D5xA4m671H/s1600/IMG_0616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzQzI61ztUpm32wSs0TKhMuo184X67_Zzv9z4vrn8cquQRY91_HF_4abfQdHd-S7PJytp67OOd1lMmIllBerW6xZoEN5pKIXYgKy96U6VrM_XIwrxtRG6EJr62VA7WcrAQ7D5xA4m671H/s400/IMG_0616.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>How lovely are these blossoms? I don't know what they are, but saw them along the river last week. Made me think about spring as a time of renewal and freshness- just like my blogging ideas!</i></div>
<br />Amanda Yhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14708871577739353169noreply@blogger.com1