tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81481480686021649762024-03-13T16:41:50.954-04:00*Sweet Shangrila*Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.comBlogger244125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-32877174562568817352014-01-21T23:04:00.001-05:002014-01-21T23:09:54.806-05:00What's Been Going On...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't even know where to start. Has it really been 2 months since I've blogged? I don't know where time has gone and I feel so disconnected. I could go on about how life has been super busy, blah blah but honestly... I've been lacking inspiration.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Why? Plenty of exciting and great things have happened in the past few months. I can't pinpoint what it is, but I haven't been feeling the blog groove. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For now I'll do a little life update and mixmash of everything that's been going on...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Wedding:</b> We have a tentative date for this summer. Things aren't set in stone yet but hopefully will be soon. Planning a wedding is hard work! Thankfully I have some pretty amazing people in my life to help me out. I have a dress and we have a venue so everything else should fall into place (I hope!)</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">champagne toast with future MIL and Mom after saying "yes" to my dress</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Relationship:</b> Chris and I celebrated 7 years together! Pretty soon we'll have a wedding anniversary to celebrate and we'll have to "start over" with that counting! It's hard to believe that I've spent all of my twenties with this guy. Time flies when you're having fun!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>House:</b> Loving our house! We've settled in and are enjoying the extra space and new neighborhood. My commute is an hour which I don't love, but it's totally worth it living where we are. It's great being 10 min away from our families, also. We were able to host Thanksgiving and my birthday brunch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Weather:</b> Uhhh, lots of snow. We've had mild winters the past few years... of course the first winter we have a driveway to shovel and an hour commute is the one that it snows a million inches!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IHPaZf5eckU/Ut883U24sEI/AAAAAAAAXBM/13f-5huWLWA/s1600/20131210_101945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IHPaZf5eckU/Ut883U24sEI/AAAAAAAAXBM/13f-5huWLWA/s1600/20131210_101945.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">just one of the several snow storms this winter!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Loving: </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My new Clarisonic Mia2 (thanks, Chris!). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">New TV: Revenge, Betrayal, PLL, Bachelor, Hart of Dixie, Parenthood... <i>my DVR gets some action. </i>Also, HGTV. My new routine is to watch House Hunters before bed. I don't care if you're supposed to shut off electronics before bed...this works for me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Julep's topcoat. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The fact that I paid off my car this month! No more car payments!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scarves. This isn't new but I seriously have a problem. That above Cheetah scarf has appeared in many pictures lately... you'd think it's my only one. It's not, I have at least 20 more that rotate.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cran-Brrr-Itas. I'd been searching for weeks and finally found them. Of course I bought 2 cases. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Excited for:</b> My BFF Liz's wedding in 3 weeks!!! We're traveling down to Florida for the big day (she lives in the Keys!) and I can't wait. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A possible snow day tomorrow? We've got about 9 inches on the ground and there's no way I'm going to try and drive in that if we don't get plowed out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Is it summer yet?!</i></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-79529311910226365212013-11-13T08:40:00.002-05:002013-11-13T08:40:34.591-05:00Warning: Common Side Effects of Becoming Engaged<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As the first couple weeks of becoming an engaged couple have passed, I've come to realize a few things have changed. I'm experiencing a few "side effects" over here and although I wish someone had warned me, I'm kind of enjoying discovering these things as they come. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Inability to concentrate. </b>Mainly at work. Sorry, I'm not sorry- I have other things on my mind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Uncontrollable urge to stare at my hand.</b> There's something sparkly there that wasn't there a couple weeks ago. And it's gorgeous.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Overuse of the word "fiance".</b> "Oh hey, fiance!", "Good morning, fiance!", "How is my fiance doing?" Yep, it's nauseating. However, we only have a few months to call each other this so it's kind of fun.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Need to have nails painted at all times.</b> You never know when someone may be asking to stare at your left hand. Plus, I need to make up for the ugly greige polish I was wearing when he proposed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Extra daydreaming and extreme excitement when thinking about getting married.</b> This goes along with the "inability to concentrate", however when I daydream I tend to show emotion on my face. So, I'm finding myself smiling like a goofball while driving, in between sessions, and pretty much anytime I think about getting married.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Desire to watch wedding shows, peruse Pinterest, and browse wedding websites.</b> Let's be honest, I did the first two things before becoming engaged, but it's different now. It's <i>real</i> and I feel like I'm actually planning for an <i>event </i>instead of an idea.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Irritation at being asked, "Have you picked a date?"</b>. I'm trying to be patient and nice about this one. I understand it's a natural question that people don't even think about, but let's be serious. We literally <i>just</i> got engaged and although we have an idea of when we'd like to get married, we have done no planning and would just like to enjoy this engagement for a little while. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I promise I'll post about something else... eventually. :)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Linking up with <a href="http://becauseshannasaidso.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Shanna </a>for Random Wednesday! </i></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-12213225406182759222013-11-05T07:33:00.000-05:002013-11-05T07:33:38.504-05:00Our Proposal Story<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I'm so excited to share our proposal story today. I've tried to hit the highlights and already feel there are details I don't remember and some that I'd like to stay between the two of us. I'm sure Chris would have a different perspective and I'm going to see if I can get his side of the story up here in the near future. Enjoy!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">October 26, 2013 was a beautiful, crisp, sunny Saturday. Chris suggested that we go on a hike to Sugarloaf Mountain, a nearby "mountain" (more like a hill, but the best that this side of Maryland has). We'd done this before and one of our favorite pictures together was taken there at the beginning of our relationship. We accidentally picked the harder trail, which I was fine with because I was in the mood for a work-out! Little did I know it would be much more than that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We got to the top of the mountain and no one was around. Chris thought we should find the area we took the picture at before, and we agreed that we should take another picture just like it. I stood there peering out onto the beautiful land below, full of yellow and orange- a perfect October day. I turned around and Chris said a few words, unzipped his jacket pocket and pulled out a little black box. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm pretty sure my heart stopped for a second. At first, I thought he was joking and then quickly realized this was <i>real</i>. He got down on one knee and asked, "Will you marry me?" I was in shock. I realized I hadn't said anything, instead my eyes filled with tears, and I <strike>cried </strike>said "Yes!". In the moment, we weren't too sure which finger the ring went on which was hilarious, but we figured that out and of course I started crying more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After spending a few minutes at the top of the mountain taking everything in (and me shaking, crying and almost falling off a rock because that's how I roll), we decided to walk down the mountain. We must have had perfect timing because as we were leaving, tons of people started walking up. Chris knew that I didn't want to be proposed to in front of people, so having no one around during our special moment was perfect. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided I should stop ugly crying so my face wouldn't look puffy for the rest of the day- a day that took a drastic turn I could have never expected. We made our way down the mountain and started making phone calls. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chris revealed that he'd been busy that week- although he had been looking for rings for months, if not a year, he finally found one earlier in the week. The jeweler happened to have everything in stock and was able to make the ring quickly. Chris picked up the ring on Friday and sneakily visited my dad to ask him permission to marry me. That part was so important to me and I couldn't be happier that Chris talked to my dad. I like "traditional" and my dad was so honored and happy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After leaving the mountain, I decided my chipping, greige nail polish wasn't going to cut it (I would have gotten a manicure if I'd known, obviously!) so we went home to change clothes and my nail polish. We headed down to the jewelry store- Chris didn't get the ring sized because they can do it in a few minutes at the jeweler and wanted it to be the perfect size. The car ride consisted of more phone calls, at which point we'd called everyone we needed to. We stopped at Starbucks to get some much needed caffeine and then decided to update the inevitable Facebook status. We picked up the ring and headed over to see my parents- first, my Dad and Jake and then to my Mom. It was so much fun to share this excitement with them...I wouldn't trade those moments for the world and will remember them forever. Chris' parents then took us out to dinner to celebrate with lots of wine and Italian food. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">it's not really pink- that's the reflection of my phone case. I'll get better pictures soon!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I should also add that he picked a great location- not only can we go back to the mountain year after year, we can see the mountain from where we live. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was the perfect day.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Neither of us slept that night... we were just so overwhelmed, excited and in a dream. I still feel like I'm in a dream and never want to wake up! Even though we've been dating almost 7 years, this just feels different. In an amazing way. I never would have understood this a couple weeks ago but if you're engaged/married, I'm sure you know what I mean. We're so excited to finally get married and can't wait for this new chapter to begin. 2014 is going to be a great year!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-91791830888835096642013-10-28T18:47:00.001-04:002013-10-28T18:47:41.069-04:00Engaged!<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More details are coming soon, but I'm so excited to announce that Chris and I are engaged! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I couldn't be happier and have been floating on a cloud the past couple days.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't wait to write out the full "story", I literally haven't even had time to sleep since Saturday. We are so excited for everything that's to come!</span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-39467703168291915842013-10-25T08:33:00.002-04:002013-10-25T08:55:18.642-04:00High Five for Friday + 10 Years Since...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Friday! It's getting chilly here in Maryland... there was actually frost last night. I'm not sure how I feel about that... I'm ready for the holidays but not ready to be freezing all the time! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This week was a busy one and I managed to squeeze 5 days of work into 4 because I'm off work today. The downside of living an hour away from work is that when you have a dentist appointment smack dab in the middle of the day, you really don't feel like driving back and forth to work twice. Or only working for 2 hours... so you take the entire day off. I'm not complaining.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">Exactly 10 years ago, on October 25, 2003, I went to homecoming with this guy. I kept him waiting while I got ready and I still do to this day. Somehow, he still puts up with me. I couldn't have asked for a more patient, intelligent, hilarious and loving man to build a life with.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">I can't believe it's been 10 years since this night! Chris and I didn't start dating until a few years later, but this definitely "sparked" something in us. It wasn't the right timing (I mean, hello, we were 16/17) but we remained best friends and I always knew we would end up together.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I joked to Chris that we should re-enact this photo today. I still have the dress!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">On another "love" note, I went wedding dress shopping with my friend/former roomie Katie for her upcoming wedding. It was so much fun, we always talked about being bridesmaids in each others weddings and I'm so happy for her and excited for this whole process! Not to mention, she looked gorgeous and found a couple pretty amazing options.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She didn't try on any of these! No spoiling allowed {I'm too superstitious!}</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">Today is also my beautiful grandmother's birthday! Her example of unconditional love and support is one that I will cherish and follow for the rest of my life. I love you, Bubbe!</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4QqoSSDeh7A/Umpp6xFhZCI/AAAAAAAAVc8/SJW1tgQq3p0/s1600/DSC02029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4QqoSSDeh7A/Umpp6xFhZCI/AAAAAAAAVc8/SJW1tgQq3p0/s1600/DSC02029.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a few years ago...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDODyGrYfRg/UmpqDEVtudI/AAAAAAAAVdE/b0xN58V9Q20/s1600/220070_10150184163879672_706159671_6628032_3862560_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDODyGrYfRg/UmpqDEVtudI/AAAAAAAAVdE/b0xN58V9Q20/s1600/220070_10150184163879672_706159671_6628032_3862560_o.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">more than a few years ago ;)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">I don't really have any other pictures from the week because I was so busy with work that I would literally come home and collapse. That should make this weekend even sweeter :) Have a great one!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><i>Linking up with <a href="http://www.thelaurenelizabeth.com/2013/10/high-five-for-friday_25.html" target="_blank">Lauren</a></i></span></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-49422704696455913192013-10-22T20:00:00.001-04:002013-10-22T20:00:24.469-04:00Gotta Start Somewhere<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last night was Day 1 of Couch to 5k for me. I decided it was time to get off my lazy butt and do something. A couple months ago, I started to get into shape by running. I noticed my weight go down and my muscles become more toned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then we moved, I lost my convenient apartment gym and I got lazy again. Not to mention having an hour commute, leaving minimal time for leisure activities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then I realized... those are just lame excuses.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm doing this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am blessed to not need to lose much weight, but I <i>need</i> to get healthy. I need to improve my mental and physical health and there's no better way than exercise. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jZS1pbufmKg/UmcRbue88cI/AAAAAAAAVbw/zTPf6cQf80s/s1600/IMG_20131021_190439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jZS1pbufmKg/UmcRbue88cI/AAAAAAAAVbw/zTPf6cQf80s/s1600/IMG_20131021_190439.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last night I ran straight out my front door for 2 miles and I feel so good. Yeah, my muscles are sore but I am doing this!</span></div>
Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-69173207668162219592013-10-21T07:15:00.001-04:002013-10-21T07:15:42.459-04:00Weekend in Pictures<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This weekend was an eventful one. We had no time to work on the vanity, so there it sits in the garage, still. Is it just me, or are weekends too short? I think we need 3 days. I could totally cram my work into 4 days!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's our weekend in pictures...</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gl1-igZg0c4/UmR3X8caJqI/AAAAAAAAVak/gwkYhlQ6wLs/s1600/20131019_194037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gl1-igZg0c4/UmR3X8caJqI/AAAAAAAAVak/gwkYhlQ6wLs/s1600/20131019_194037.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">loving these orange dyed (and regular) sunflowers</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru0IZYXXqmo/UmR3X6ojAbI/AAAAAAAAVak/xcE0oppXjWU/s1600/20131020_181720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru0IZYXXqmo/UmR3X6ojAbI/AAAAAAAAVak/xcE0oppXjWU/s1600/20131020_181720.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">this combination is so yum!</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XH7SvdSGsUI/UmR3Xy9H4HI/AAAAAAAAVak/JetOrAZI-Nk/s1600/20131019_185041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XH7SvdSGsUI/UmR3Xy9H4HI/AAAAAAAAVak/JetOrAZI-Nk/s1600/20131019_185041.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">our first try at making indian food. wow it was so spicy! we're learning :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qk8De2vgwvU/UmR3Xyw8EMI/AAAAAAAAVak/WM75P5aBFhQ/s1600/20131019_143256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qk8De2vgwvU/UmR3Xyw8EMI/AAAAAAAAVak/WM75P5aBFhQ/s1600/20131019_143256.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Renaissance fair! Food, shows, and lots of interestingly dressed people. Fun!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lIBM-TMFpw8/UmR3XyLhOJI/AAAAAAAAVak/04lpQUGdunQ/s1600/20131019_112219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lIBM-TMFpw8/UmR3XyLhOJI/AAAAAAAAVak/04lpQUGdunQ/s1600/20131019_112219.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">sword swollower. insane.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XsupTZEmDzE/UmR3X1lrQLI/AAAAAAAAVak/Og_Gi6ZOb_U/s1600/20131018_173215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XsupTZEmDzE/UmR3X1lrQLI/AAAAAAAAVak/Og_Gi6ZOb_U/s1600/20131018_173215.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My mom's Belle sitting like a lady... too cute.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not pictured, we also saw Gravity in 3d Imax. Oh my gosh... if you see one movie, go see this one. In 3d. I was a little on the fence about seeing it, but it was incredible.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now it's time for another Monday. Thankfully it's a four day week for me as I took Friday off! What did you do this weekend? </span><br />
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Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-56437408397648615872013-10-18T07:55:00.002-04:002013-10-18T07:55:20.963-04:008 Inches and Friday Randoms<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Friday!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's been a pretty eventful week and getting back into blogging is just what I've been needing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1) I cut 8 inches off my hair! I feel so much lighter and probably even lost a couple pounds as a result. I've been wavering between loving and hating it, but I'm leaning towards the "loving" side now. It's an adjustment for sure.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Og0wEhfD8GU/UmEguc15WhI/AAAAAAAAVSU/SjoI7byinVE/s1600/20131016_083115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Og0wEhfD8GU/UmEguc15WhI/AAAAAAAAVSU/SjoI7byinVE/s1600/20131016_083115.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">don't mind the awkward selfie </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2) Chris and I decided to refinish my old vanity. My dad and I refinished it once five years ago and after a few burn marks and peeling paint, I decided it was a good time to tackle it again. This project is a tricky one for sure, but I can't wait for the finished product.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f0-fLIYEIVs/UmEg3NxRVOI/AAAAAAAAVSc/wSGIn3DheVE/s1600/20131013_134915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f0-fLIYEIVs/UmEg3NxRVOI/AAAAAAAAVSc/wSGIn3DheVE/s1600/20131013_134915.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3) Have you checked out my <a href="http://www.sweetshangrila.com/2013/10/broccoli-cheese-soup.html" target="_blank">broccoli and cheese soup</a>? It's seriously so good. This recipe makes ton, I currently have the rest sitting in my freezer just waiting for a busy work night to be heated up easily. Yum yum yum</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cYnebwqKivA/UmEg9BOICUI/AAAAAAAAVSk/4TM4H7kRvBQ/s1600/broccoli+cheese+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cYnebwqKivA/UmEg9BOICUI/AAAAAAAAVSk/4TM4H7kRvBQ/s1600/broccoli+cheese+soup.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4) We're planning on a fun weekend of (hopefully) finishing up the vanity, seeing Gravity (I heard it's one of the best movies ever, has anyone seen it?) and going to the Renaissance fair. Probably some more picture-hanging and setting things up thrown in there, too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5) I'm so so excited to be blogging again. I've missed the interactions with you all. I haven't stopped reading everyone else's blogs over the past couple months but I find it so therapeutic to write my own. Having somewhere to keep track of my happenings is pretty amazing. When I look at posts from a year ago, I realize how much my life has changed. When I get to write out my honest, raw <a href="http://www.sweetshangrila.com/2013/10/you-dont-understand-yet.html" target="_blank">feelings</a> about my relationship or anything else, <i>that's </i>therapeutic.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have a great weekend!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Linking up with <a href="http://www.thelaurenelizabeth.com/2013/10/high-five-for-friday_18.html" target="_blank">Lauren </a>for High Five for Friday</i></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-11541071172517260662013-10-16T21:56:00.000-04:002013-10-17T11:39:10.503-04:00"You Don't Understand Yet"<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently, someone asked if I was married. I replied, "No". Since this was someone I couldn't go into personal details with, I couldn't reply with my usual "<i>No, but we've been dating almost 7 years, lived together 5 of those years" </i>so I left it at that. To which the person tells me "you don't understand yet- you will when you get married".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wait a minute. What don't I understand? It really got me thinking. Sure, we aren't married yet- I get that. There is a whole other level of commitment and I don't mean to devalue marriage in any way. But to assume I don't "understand it"? I'm not sure what that means. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TcUn2Dp72Q/Ul87YCC0dSI/AAAAAAAAVR0/fPRUMIaEQGc/s1600/alyssa+chris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TcUn2Dp72Q/Ul87YCC0dSI/AAAAAAAAVR0/fPRUMIaEQGc/s1600/alyssa+chris.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>photo credit: Michael Maiatico</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, here's what I do understand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand faithfulness and loyalty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand making my boyfriend a priority.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand the need for communication.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand compromise.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand caring for each other when one is sick.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand the balance of spending time together vs. spending time with others.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand the difficulties of managing several households on holidays.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand having inside jokes that no one else in the world would ever understand. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand the desire to want to start a family with <i>this person</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand wanting to be with this person for the rest of my life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand being so mad at someone and loving them so much at the same time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand what it's like to go through some of the most difficult times imaginable and have this person by my side, supporting me no matter what. I understand that I do the same for him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm sure I (we) have a lot to learn. I know marriage will open up a whole new set of doors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But I would say that I think I understand pretty well.</span></div>
Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-51577923273723685832013-10-15T20:41:00.000-04:002013-11-02T08:58:47.708-04:00Broccoli & Cheese Soup<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>*<b>If you're here from <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/alyssalianne" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, Welcome! Please check out my other recipes <a href="http://www.sweetshangrila.com/p/recipes.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel this soup needs no introduction.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Basically, I'm obsessed with Panera's broccoli and cheddar soup so I tried to duplicate it. The only thing missing was the bread bowl, which you bet I'll be trying to make soon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>INGREGIENTS:</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups broccoli, cut into small florets</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp olive oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Salt & Pepper</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 oz (or about 2/3 stick) butter</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 small onion, finely diced</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup carrot, shredded</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5 cups milk (I used 2%, use whatever you prefer)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup light cream</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp nutmeg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 cups grated cheddar cheese</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>DIRECTIONS:</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Heat oven to 400F. Place broccoli on baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake 20 minutes (careful so the broccoli does not cook too much and turn brown). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Melt butter in large pan over medium heat, cook onions until translucent. Add carrots. Mix in flour until absorbed, cooking about a minute. Add milk, cream, nutmeg, as well as salt and pepper (to taste). Add roasted broccoli. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for about 25 minutes. Stir in cheese, add additional salt and pepper to taste.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Serve with a crusty bread and enjoy!</span></div>
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Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-30250429238178155852013-10-14T17:35:00.000-04:002013-10-14T17:35:56.688-04:00"Home"<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We moved about a month ago now, so I feel it's the perfect time to get back into blogging! We were without internet until the end of September so I finally feel like I'm joining the 21st century again. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chris and I are so happy in our new home. We're still decorating and buying furniture so I haven't taken many pictures. I realized that while we're in our home now, my online home is here and I've been neglecting this little space for so long. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've missed it so much.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, lately I've been cooking, baking, decorating, diy-ing and mainly working. My hour/plus commute has been pretty grueling and has been an adjustment...to say the least. It's worth it to come home to a place we love and be only 10 minutes away from both of our families (although we still don't see them as much as I'd like).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have some recipes to share soon and also a pretty big (for me) DIY project, so stay tuned!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'll leave you with some pictures of our house before we moved in and will hopefully have the decorating done soon....</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fe9kuWsRdfY/UlnyDhJDZFI/AAAAAAAAVMc/m9OySCst8z0/s1600/20130901_101429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fe9kuWsRdfY/UlnyDhJDZFI/AAAAAAAAVMc/m9OySCst8z0/s1600/20130901_101429.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tx24hvFx4r4/UlnyDiMWjCI/AAAAAAAAVMc/GG6p8J9yuIY/s1600/20130831_103809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tx24hvFx4r4/UlnyDiMWjCI/AAAAAAAAVMc/GG6p8J9yuIY/s1600/20130831_103809.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Huge deck. There's construction going on all around but it's just about finished now.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j5s2ZUFCdbA/UlnyDpAgciI/AAAAAAAAVMc/rUIlWHu4w6s/s1600/20130824_133050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j5s2ZUFCdbA/UlnyDpAgciI/AAAAAAAAVMc/rUIlWHu4w6s/s1600/20130824_133050.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My FAVORITE room!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yMNb1gQvXfw/UlnyDgVig-I/AAAAAAAAVMc/MO4vPIRvqQM/s1600/20130824_133039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yMNb1gQvXfw/UlnyDgVig-I/AAAAAAAAVMc/MO4vPIRvqQM/s1600/20130824_133039.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dining/Living room before move-in</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gzkttUcYvR4/UlnyDhMZY9I/AAAAAAAAVMc/EMe1CBRs04I/s1600/20130824_133258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gzkttUcYvR4/UlnyDhMZY9I/AAAAAAAAVMc/EMe1CBRs04I/s1600/20130824_133258.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cute little window from the master bathroom. Soon, all that land will be built on...enjoying the view now.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QmN1wX6Jy8/UlnyDg_76pI/AAAAAAAAVMc/wLyhjqv9Flg/s1600/20130923_182539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QmN1wX6Jy8/UlnyDg_76pI/AAAAAAAAVMc/wLyhjqv9Flg/s1600/20130923_182539.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">New Fall Wreath. Refer to <a href="http://www.sweetshangrila.com/2012/09/fall-wreath.html" target="_blank">this post</a> if you'd like instructions!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oS_Va6z7KjU/UlnyDjBnHWI/AAAAAAAAVMc/YWYeXAwjlQ4/s1600/20130922_150923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oS_Va6z7KjU/UlnyDjBnHWI/AAAAAAAAVMc/YWYeXAwjlQ4/s1600/20130922_150923.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ok, I lied... we did decorate one room completely. Our new dining table!</span></td></tr>
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Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-88540059767525266752013-08-23T07:09:00.000-04:002013-08-23T07:09:23.382-04:00Life Lately<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I sit here after over a month of being away from this little space of mine, looking at a once familiar text box. So much has happened in the past few months, and so much is yet to happen. I miss the interactions I had over blogging, but know I'm not quite ready to return. Here's a little life update, mainly for my own use (because hey, who doesn't like looking back at what they've been up to?). Hopefully soon I'll be back on the blogging train!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In July I finally earned my clinical license! This was a long time coming and I'm so proud of myself for this achievement. I studied day and night for weeks, and it definitely paid off. As a result, I got a promotion at work and I don't have to worry about getting formal supervision or counting my client contact hours. It's a huge relief.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chris started his new job, which has been an adjustment for both of us. We're both so busy with our work schedules and he's had a long commute, so the time we've been able to spend together becomes even more precious.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also, we're moving. We'll be living about an hour away from where we currently live, which is actually near where we grew up. Our families are there and once Chris got his new job, it was clear that we wanted to move back. It wasn't a question in our minds. I'll have an extra 30 minutes added onto my commute, so that will be an adjustment but I'll get used to it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So right now I'm sitting in the midst of moving boxes waiting for our next adventure to begin. It's an exciting time! Our new house is actually <i>brand new</i>, which unfortunately means we won't have cable or internet until the end of September. I don't know how I'll survive....that will be interesting. Maybe it will give me time to bake and have some yummy recipes posted for the fall. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the meantime, you can follow along on <a href="http://instagram.com/alyssalianne24" target="_blank">Instagram </a>to see how our move goes and if I go crazy from being disconnected for a month. Stay tuned! :)</span></div>
Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-24728903289220779672013-07-15T10:55:00.001-04:002013-07-15T10:55:38.111-04:00Lemonade Pie<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm all for easy pies. So when I ran across this <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Lemonade Pie</span></b> from <a href="http://luluthebaker.blogspot.com/2013/07/pink-lemonade-pie.html?m=1" target="_blank">Lulu the Baker</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/161425967866547715/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, I knew it was the perfect 4th of July recipe to throw together. It was definitely a hit and isn't just for the 4th! It's the perfect summer pie. Here it is, and there are only 4 main ingredients!</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qCHC17GcOVU/Ud-BVuUNMzI/AAAAAAAAUDA/Ddxau8wJpxM/s1600/Lemonade+Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qCHC17GcOVU/Ud-BVuUNMzI/AAAAAAAAUDA/Ddxau8wJpxM/s1600/Lemonade+Pie.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Ingredients:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Graham cracker crust (you can make your own but I just bought one, reduced fat)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Frozen lemonade concentrate (thawed)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz, I used reduced fat)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 containers Cool Whip (1 for recipe, 1 for topping)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sliced strawberries and blueberries, for topping</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Directions:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mix sweetened condensed milk. A whisk works best. Add cool whip carefully- don't over-mix! Pour into crust. Freeze until solid (I froze overnight). Serve immediately out of the freezer- add sliced strawberries, blueberries, and Cool Whip if you'd like. Do this right after the pie comes out of the freezer, trust me- it will melt! Especially if it's 4th of July and <i>hot</i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's kind of like a tart-er key lime pie, according to Chris. Everyone loved it and it was the perfect refreshing, sweet treat after a day of swimming, drinking, and soaking up the sun. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiIY22MuzXQ/T80vQ7BeqLI/AAAAAAAAC3A/qVPWsz2ZoPU/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiIY22MuzXQ/T80vQ7BeqLI/AAAAAAAAC3A/qVPWsz2ZoPU/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-66637913360625183232013-07-12T07:24:00.001-04:002013-07-12T07:25:06.018-04:00Bits of July<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Long time, no blog, huh? It'll be like this for a couple more weeks before I take my exam {right now I'm in <strike>procrastinate </strike>study mode} but I guess I should do a quick update so I can remember that I did, in fact, have a fun summer in 2013. I really miss interacting with everyone, and am quite positive this little blog has cobwebs growing on it from no one visiting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had a great, long July 4th weekend. Chris' brother and sister-in-law came into town and stayed with us for a night {we're the best for picking them up at the airport at 1am}. We had a low key 4th including Strawbeeritas, swimming, and lots of good food and fun. Did I mention Strawberritas? Yum.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C0IHs7Yp1lA/Ud9mMDI4PaI/AAAAAAAAUCw/3szNbMROrD0/s1600/20130704_003515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C0IHs7Yp1lA/Ud9mMDI4PaI/AAAAAAAAUCw/3szNbMROrD0/s1600/20130704_003515.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">empty 1am airport walk. Am I the only one obsessed with moving sidewalks?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEKMlJsXHtw/Ud9mMLXD7lI/AAAAAAAAUCw/EGHNNaV_xeE/s1600/20130704_210342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEKMlJsXHtw/Ud9mMLXD7lI/AAAAAAAAUCw/EGHNNaV_xeE/s1600/20130704_210342.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lemonade pie! Recipe coming soon...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc1EjoRPd6c/Ud9mMJUApWI/AAAAAAAAUCw/ioKxCYMna_A/s1600/20130704_213351_LLS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc1EjoRPd6c/Ud9mMJUApWI/AAAAAAAAUCw/ioKxCYMna_A/s1600/20130704_213351_LLS.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Night swimming is the best kind. Especially when you can see fireworks from the pool!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NnPB5wJvzwQ/Ud9mMOOQEXI/AAAAAAAAUCw/P1iDFLyT-i8/s1600/20130705_092022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NnPB5wJvzwQ/Ud9mMOOQEXI/AAAAAAAAUCw/P1iDFLyT-i8/s1600/20130705_092022.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A morning is best spent by the pool. Actually, sitting by the pool makes <i>anything </i>better</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R34N96ywl3c/Ud9mMDh1fQI/AAAAAAAAUCw/bXzeRTa6RmU/s1600/20130705_193059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R34N96ywl3c/Ud9mMDh1fQI/AAAAAAAAUCw/bXzeRTa6RmU/s1600/20130705_193059.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If it walks like a duck, then it probably is a duck? After a couple glasses of wine at Macaroni grill, I was obsessed with the ducks. By the way, wine is half off at Macaroni Grill in July. You can even bag it up if you don't finish the bottle. You're welcome.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xo2zROYJ6JE/Ud9mMAlsUuI/AAAAAAAAUCw/x9md0lJ47aQ/s1600/20130706_105519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xo2zROYJ6JE/Ud9mMAlsUuI/AAAAAAAAUCw/x9md0lJ47aQ/s1600/20130706_105519.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So obsessed with this necklace from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fancyfrillsboutique" target="_blank">Fancy Frills</a> via <a href="http://veryjane.com/" target="_blank">Very Jane</a>. SO disappointed 2 of the gems are missing and I have to exchange it, though!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pEV-q6G0eiA/Ud9mMHn_RdI/AAAAAAAAUCw/De9zhdJWLpg/s1600/20130706_115105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pEV-q6G0eiA/Ud9mMHn_RdI/AAAAAAAAUCw/De9zhdJWLpg/s1600/20130706_115105.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Impromptu watermelon sorbet! This recipe's also coming soon. This stuff is amazing!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Other than all that, Chris and I have been busy at work, I've been trying to study, and we've been figuring out what are next move will be. Literally.. we're moving. I don't know where or when, but it's happening and I'm trying not to think about it until my test is over. <i>But house-hunting is so much more fun than studying! </i>Right?! Chris had his first week at his new job so we're settling into a new schedule. I have a feeling things won't seem "normal" for quite a while. It's all for the better, though, so I am so not complaining.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What are you doing this weekend? I'll be cooped up studying so I need to live vicariously through others' plans! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I counted more than "five", but linking up with <a href="http://www.thelaurenelizabeth.com/" target="_blank">Lauren </a>for High Five for Friday!</i></span></div>
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Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-71414479463300593632013-07-01T19:46:00.001-04:002013-07-01T19:46:20.900-04:00Getaway and Good News<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This weekend, although extremely busy, will go down in the books as one of the best. On Friday, we found out that Chris got a long-anticipated and <i>amazing</i> job. We've been waiting patiently, hoping, and praying for some good news and we finally got it. I'm so so proud of him! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We already had a weekend trip to Virginia Beach planned, so off we went to relax and celebrate. What was supposed to be a 4 hour drive ended up being 6 hours. It was a little rainy at the beach but that didn't stop us from relaxing and having a good time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We headed to dinner at a restaurant called Freemason Abbey in Norfolk (where we stayed) where I drank yummy wine, of course, and ate a pretty darn good crab cake. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We found a nearby bar and drank beers and downed shots of Fireball. Yes it was amazing. I can't remember the last time we went out, just the two of us. We people watched, laughed, and celebrated the good job news. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We stumbled back to the hotel and passed out- I'm seriously too old for that, but we had so much fun!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We decided to drive back sooner rather than later (traffic was inevitable) but stopped at Colonial Williamsburg on the way back. It was fun, but hot and honestly it kind of freaked me out. Just like I don't like clowns, or mimes, I don't think I like people dressed in period clothing. <i>is that weird?</i> It definitely was cool to see the town and how it looked hundreds of years ago.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There they go, about to shoot cannons. They were loud.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now I'm just looking forward to the upcoming 4 day weekend. There's a lot of change coming up, but I'm trying to take things one step at a time. It's all happy changes, for sure... just changes. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What did you do this weekend? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Linking up with <a href="http://www.samisshenanigans.com/2013/07/its-time-for-weekend-shenanigans.html" target="_blank">Sami </a>for the first time in a while!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-82999272062319495492013-06-28T07:43:00.000-04:002013-06-28T07:43:32.451-04:00Excitement, Honor and Weekend Getaways<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't even contain my excitement about this week <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(count how many times I use "excited" in this post. We can make it into a drinking game if you'd like.)</span></i> The past week has been amazing and the upcoming weekend will hopefully be incredible as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. The BEST and most exciting thing that happened this week was that my best friend Liz asked me to be her maid of honor! She and her fiance are getting married early next year (in the Keys!). We have been friends since Kindergarten and although she's lived in the Keys for the past couple years and we haven't been able to see each other much, I'm so excited to be helping her with anything and everything she needs and, of course, visiting her. I am over the moon excited for her :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i> If anyone has any tips on maid of honor duties, please fill me in... this is my first time!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Fun over the weekend... Since I haven't been doing weekend recaps (seriously, I wish I had time for them), you get a peek of the past weekend right now. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Boys will be boys. Working on the old go kart.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quality pool time</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I drove a Porsche for the first time, no big deal. It's Chris' dad's but I almost drove away and didn't return!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sushi date outfit</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You would think I worked out, but I didn't. Tricked you.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. I won a <a href="http://www.glossybox.com/" target="_blank">Glossybox </a>from <a href="http://www.glossyblonde.com/" target="_blank">Niki's blog</a> (thanks, girl!) and have had a ton of fun playing around with these products! I'll do a full post soon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. These little gems. They're insanely good, you have to try. And only about 70 calories a piece!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. This weekend Chris and I are going to Virginia Beach for a little getaway. I can't even remember the last time we had a weekend getaway.... I think it was two years ago. It's much needed. We had a free hotel night and figured it would best be used at the beach. I can't wait to get away... be sure to follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/alyssalianne24" target="_blank">Instagram</a> because I'm sure I'll be posting there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What are you doing this weekend?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Linking up with <a href="http://www.thelaurenelizabeth.com/" target="_blank">Lauren</a></i></span><br />
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Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-17299041674568355852013-06-24T08:07:00.000-04:002013-06-24T08:07:00.375-04:00June Birchbox<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's been a while since I've done a Birchbox recap. This month was great so I felt like I needed to share!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/klorane-dry-shampoo-with-oat-milk" target="_blank">Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk</a> ($18 for full size) ~ I haven't tried this yet, but am a huge dry shampoo fan. This one is a little more expensive than I'd normally spend on dry shampoo but I'd consider buying if I love it. I'm saving it to bring on a trip so ask me in a month or so how I like it (<a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod3560097" target="_blank">this dry shampoo</a> is my favorite, in case you are wondering)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/mirenesse-glossy-kiss" target="_blank">Mirenesse Glossy Kiss</a> ($26.55 for full size) ~ I'm pretty sure I received a full size, so this makes the box totally worth it by itself. I really love this- it's a lip stain if applied lightly or a gloss if applied regularly. It can also be used as a blush. There's nothing I love more than a multi-functional product I can throw in my purse. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/color-club-wanderlust-collection" target="_blank">Color Club Wanderlust Collection</a> ($8 for set of 4 mini polishes) ~ I received "Reign in Spain" which is a fluorescent coral color. In. Love. I can't explain my love for this polish, other than it's been on my toes, hands, or both ever since I received it. Obsessed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/oscar-de-la-renta-something-blue-edp-spray" target="_blank">Oscar de la Renta Something Blue</a> ($85 for full size) ~ I rarely like perfume samples, however this scent is perfect. It's floral without being too overwhelming. I'm not going to lie, I want to buy this for my future wedding day so I haven't actually worn this sample. <i>(I'm planning on wearing a scent for the first time on my wedding day to associate that smell with my wedding- yes, I've thought this through)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/twistband-custom-summer-nautical-collection" target="_blank">twistband</a> (birchbox nautical hair tie collection, $6 for 4 hair ties) ~ I love this anchor hair tie, however these things stretch out way too quickly for my thick hair. I've enjoyed wearing it on my wrist and using it for pulling my hair back while working, however it doesn't do a good job of holding my hair back in an all-day ponytail. It would probably be great for someone with thinner hair.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Interested in joining Birchbox? <a href="http://birch.ly/1c1KIhl" target="_blank">Click here</a>! Have any questions? Leave them in the comments!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-43843771523914072082013-06-21T08:04:00.000-04:002013-06-21T15:28:04.820-04:00Friday and Life Lately<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been a little MIA over here, for good reason! Things have been a little crazy and I've missed writing and reading everyone's blogs. Here's what I've been up to...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Catching up and spending time with some of my favorite people. My friend's wedding was this past weekend and it was so good to see some of my college friends throughout the wedding weekend festivities. I need to make more of an effort to spend time with them <i>besides</i> for special events... but that's for another time. I've also seen some of my old coworkers/friends for various brunches/dinners. I've missed seeing them all every day! Also, I need to take more pictures.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris and I</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">former roomie Katie and I</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty table settings</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Studying. This is boring, and there are no pictures. I've been getting ready for my big clinical social work exam. I scheduled it but am not telling anyone when I'm taking it because I'm superstitious like that. Chris knows... and my mom.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. We had some scary weather/ tornadoes nearby last week. Thankfully everyone I know was okay!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this is foreboding...</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Outfits and nail polish lately. Blurred edition.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">Obsessed with this nail polish from </span><a href="http://birch.ly/1c1KIhl" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium; text-align: start;" target="_blank">Birchbox</a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">. Stay tuned for my Birchbox reveal!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 5. Adorable little bunnies at my dad's house. And spending Father's Day with Dad. Unfortunately I was too concerned about taking pictures of baby bunnies that I forgot to take pictures of the family. Whoops.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have a great weekend!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Linking up with <a href="http://www.thelaurenelizabeth.com/" target="_blank">Lauren</a></i></span></div>
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Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-10725346814766627982013-06-17T08:30:00.000-04:002013-06-17T08:30:02.995-04:00Salted Caramel Bites<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Happy Monday! Today I'm going to share a recipe I shared on <a href="http://www.bourbonandglitter.com/" target="_blank">Steph's blog</a> a few months ago. In case you missed it, these salted caramel bites are worth mentioning again <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>and again, and again.</i> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 small can sweetened condensed milk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 cup butter (1 stick)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">dash of salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3/4 honey or white corn syrup (I used honey)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sea salt or kosher salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Candy thermometer</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Wax paper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Glass pan, buttered (you can use a smaller pan for thicker caramels, it doesn't really matter what size you use)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Add all ingredients (except sea salt) to large pan on medium heat. Stir constantly. Once the mixture starts to boil (about 10-15 minutes) stick the candy thermometer in. Once the mixture reaches 240 degrees Fahrenheit give the mixture one last stir and pour into buttered pan. Let cool (I stuck mine in the fridge because I'm impatient). Once the caramels are <i>almost</i> cool, sprinkle with sea salt. (This is not necessary... I just like the flavor the salt creates against the sweetness of the caramel)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once cool, cut into small pieces. Roll up in wax paper if desired.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Then <strike>eat the whole pan yourself</strike> ENJOY!!</span></div>
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<br />Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-2446636698202055552013-06-07T08:22:00.000-04:002013-06-07T08:22:00.714-04:00June's Been Pretty Great so Far...<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is anyone else in disbelief that it's June? This week was a busy one seeing as my last two weekends have been 3 days long! In my opinion, I should get Monday and Friday off work <i>every</i> week. Give me one good reason why not. <i>ok, don't. I know I won't win this one.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are my five highlights from the week...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. I liked my outfit. I realized I take pictures of my outfits, not to look glam, but to remember them for future times where I have no clue what to wear. Yes, I may be a "blogger" but I will never ever be comfortable taking "outfit pictures". Ever. <i>obviously I love this necklace because I'm wearing it in my sidebar pic, too. thanks to Chris' mom!</i></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">necklace: limited / sweater: gap / pants and sandals: kohl's?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. This recipe.<a href="http://www.sweetshangrila.com/2013/06/mediterranean-pasta-salad.html"> Mediterranean Pasta Salad</a> was a hit in our house this week.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3.Costco trip. Not only did we find some amaze deals, like a HUGE bag of tostito scoops for $4 and the best kale salad (<a href="http://www.melaniecooks.com/sweet-kale-vegetable-salad-kit-from-costco/4436/">this blog post</a> describes it perfectly!), we saw a woman try on a pair of shorts <b>in the middle of the clothing section</b>. And by "saw" I mean stared with our mouths open and ran away laughing like little kids because it was <i>hilarious</i>. Hint for next time, lady: Buy two sizes. Return one. Save yourself the humiliation (except I don't think she cared one bit).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Who doesn't love a cat picture? Despite being extremely allergic, I love my mom's cats. Apparently Apollo didn't want Ben to go back to LA over the weekend. This is one of my favorite pictures from the weekend so I just had to share.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">oh, you got that out just for me?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 5. I sent in my application for my LCSW-C (clinical social work license!) I've been waiting almost 3 years since I earned my Masters to be able to earn this license! The last 3 years have consisted on working my butt off and going through hell and back...sometimes wishing I never chose this career and loving it at the same time. I am so proud of myself and am excited that I'm so close to this goal. Now I need to wait for everything to be approved and STUDY!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Happy Weekend! Linking up with <a href="http://www.thelaurenelizabeth.com/">Lauren</a>.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-71266152547236359652013-06-05T08:02:00.001-04:002013-06-05T08:02:45.037-04:00Random Wednesday {Sharing and Asking Questions}<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This past weekend was a busy and great weekend- my little baby brother Jake had his bar mitzvah! To say I'm proud is an understatement. Here are a few pictures from the weekend...</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gTtRyppQEM/Ua6l0Su6eHI/AAAAAAAAS6s/p6WmS1gHzko/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gTtRyppQEM/Ua6l0Su6eHI/AAAAAAAAS6s/p6WmS1gHzko/s1600/006.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Squinty eyes. It was so sunny!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vaLQbt_u6xM/Ua6l3DTTdLI/AAAAAAAAS60/3Qx7vweC25U/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vaLQbt_u6xM/Ua6l3DTTdLI/AAAAAAAAS60/3Qx7vweC25U/s1600/014.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look at that amazing cake!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DSU5do_kMvI/Ua6l6NJkYxI/AAAAAAAAS68/AtgKeDjhGnI/s1600/002+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DSU5do_kMvI/Ua6l6NJkYxI/AAAAAAAAS68/AtgKeDjhGnI/s1600/002+-+Copy.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ben & Zach (my brothers)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The man of the weekend... Jake! He was obviously thrilled about all the pictures being taken that day.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was great to see so many family members who came from out of town and it was wonderful to spend time with everyone <i>together </i>while witnessing this exciting event. Chris got to meet a lot of my extended family for the first time... even though we've been dating 6.5 years we haven't had a big family event like this in a while. We missed my grandparents who couldn't be there due to health reasons (please keep them in your thoughts/prayers!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There will definitely be more pictures when we get the roll from the photographer. I wish I could live this weekend over again! (although I'm sure Jake is glad it's over)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Moving on...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While updating my <a href="http://www.sweetshangrila.com/p/recipes.html">recipes index</a>, a thought crossed my mind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Does anyone ever make the recipes I post here? Not just Pin them... I mean, actually <i>make</i> them. I'd really like to know. So, please give me the honest truth! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Have you tried something you saw here? Have you wanted to but it was too complicated or my directions didn't make sense? TELL ME!!!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Linking up with <a href="http://www.becauseshannasaidso.blogspot.com/">Shanna </a>for Random Wednesday</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-42701729070561641412013-06-04T07:54:00.000-04:002013-06-04T07:54:46.548-04:00Mediterranean Pasta Salad<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nothing screams "summer" like a barbecue with homemade pasta salad served on the side. This <span style="background-color: white;">Mediterranean</span><span style="background-color: white;"> version was inspired by my mom's pasta salad, with a slight </span><span style="background-color: white;">Mediterranean</span><span style="background-color: white;"> twist. Chris, the "not a pasta salad fan" asked for seconds, so you know it must be good.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><u>Ingredients:</u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">About 1/2 box of tri-color rotini (I think the tri-color looks the prettiest but you could use regular rotini)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">1/2 cup artichoke hearts</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">about 5 baby carrots</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">1/2 cucumber</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">1/2 zucchini (green squash)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">1/4 large red onion</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">1/2 cup Italian salad dressing (I used Kraft Zesty)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Crumbled feta cheese</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Directions:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cook pasta according to directions on box. Prep veggies. You can really cut them any way you prefer, but I wanted to add some different textures. I grated the carrot and zucchini, sliced and quartered the cucumbers, chopped the artichoke hearts, and julienne cut the red onion. Drain and rinse pasta in cold water. Throw it all in a large bowl, pour in salad dressing, and mix it all up. Sprinkle feta cheese. Store in fridge about 30 minutes before serving.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Serves about 8-10.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So easy. Congratulations, you have yourself a hit pasta salad for any summer barbecue or party. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-29161393245038609742013-05-30T07:39:00.000-04:002013-05-30T07:39:54.334-04:00Strawberry Shortcake<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer means strawberries, which means another excuse to make a dessert. Or, something like that. This strawberry shortcake is easy to whip up and will definitely be a crowd-pleaser for your summer get-together...or just for yourself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Ingredients:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 cups strawberries (rinsed and sliced into bite-sized pieces)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp corn starch</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 tbsp white sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tbsp Triple Sec (orange liqueur) or orange juice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 can crescent rolls (I used Pillsbury Reduced Fat)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 egg white, beaten</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tbsp white sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Whipped topping (About 1 cup or however much you want. I used Fat Free Cool Whip, could also use regular whipped cream or make your own)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Directions:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Puree 1 cup strawberries and water in blender or food processor. In a saucepan, mix corn starch and 3 tbsp white sugar. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Mix in liqueur and let cool. Stir remaining 2 cups of strawberries and refrigerate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pre-heat oven to 325F. Grease cookie sheet. Unroll and separate crescent rolls, press 2 triangles together (so 8 pre-cut rolls become 4 big rolls). Roll up as directed on package. Brush top with egg white, sprinkle sugar. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let cool for a few minutes then cut rolls in half. Stuff with strawberry mixture and cool whip. Less is not more, here, so pile it all on!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Enjoy :)</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Adapted from <a href="http://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/crescent-strawberry-shortcake/b84afd0e-b138-4276-9cab-370eadf274cb" target="_blank">this recipe</a></i></span><br />
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Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-46813611389740758472013-05-29T09:05:00.000-04:002013-05-29T09:08:38.414-04:00Randoms and My Jams<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Holy wow. This weekend was a whirlwind of just about everything. I haven't had much time to share, so I thought Random Wednesday would be the perfect time to share a few highlights...</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EKkE0-fTTGQ/UaX29gG-PMI/AAAAAAAASsc/3MrTsldUJ2w/s1600/PhotoGrid_1369831144883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EKkE0-fTTGQ/UaX29gG-PMI/AAAAAAAASsc/3MrTsldUJ2w/s1600/PhotoGrid_1369831144883.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Tyson's Corner (read: huge, amazing mall) with my friend Katie! We had so much fun at the American Girl Doll store... we basically turned into little girls again. I better give birth to a girl someday, because these dolls are amazing- so much more than they were when I was little!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Chris and I went on two bike rides over the weekend! One was over 12 miles...considering I'm out of shape and we just started biking, I'm proud of us! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. I read <i>a whole book </i>over the weekend. "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Girl-Novel-Gillian-Flynn/dp/030758836X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369831714&sr=8-1&keywords=gone+girl" target="_blank">Gone Girl</a>" was amazing. I'd heard mixed reviews but I guess I like dark and twisty fiction because I couldn't put it down.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Loving this yellow polish! (Butter-fly stroke from Sally Hansen). It's the perfect golden yellow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Why is there nothing better than strawberries and (non-fat) whipped cream? So yummy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. I made <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/161425967866343816/" target="_blank">freezer breakfast sandwiches</a> from <a href="http://pinterest.com/alyssalianne/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>. I'm not a fan of the way the eggs cooked but they'll do for quick "in a pinch" breakfasts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was so nice to have a long weekend, and I have a super short 3-day work week. That means I'm trying to cram everything into 3 days which has been a little stressful. I'm off work Friday because it's my little brother Jake's Bar Mitzvah on Saturday! I'm so excited for him, we have family coming into town and it'll be a great weekend. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, to share my playlist for Day 29 of the <a href="http://storyofmylifetheblog.blogspot.com/2013/05/soundtrack-of-my-life.html" target="_blank">challenge</a>! Here's a mini soundtrack of my life right now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are so many more songs I could use, but these are the ones that came to mind. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first two songs are songs that just make me happy, always. The next two are songs that describe where I feel I'm at in life right now. Yes, T-Swift is right, I'm feeling 22 again. The last song is "Our song" :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Linking up with <a href="http://storyofmylifetheblog.blogspot.com/2013/05/soundtrack-of-my-life.html" target="_blank">Jenni </a>and <a href="http://www.becauseshannasaidso.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Shanna</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8148148068602164976.post-61741889684600653942013-05-24T08:23:00.000-04:002013-05-24T08:23:00.715-04:00Flaws and Craving Vitamin D<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thankfully it's Friday before a long weekend. The week has actually flown by... I feel like with school ending soon time is just flying. I work at schools a couple days a week and have to say I'm really going to miss that during the summer! Well, I won't miss getting up super early. At all. Here are my favorite five things from the week...</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wszdj4B73hQ/UZ7DAiL3QpI/AAAAAAAASlc/RIYM4JpioTs/s1600/PhotoGrid_1369359079762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wszdj4B73hQ/UZ7DAiL3QpI/AAAAAAAASlc/RIYM4JpioTs/s1600/PhotoGrid_1369359079762.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Cute new shirt from Loft Outlet. Hello sale going on right now! I haven't shopped for clothes in months and although I went in looking for black capris (found some!) I couldn't resist this top, and another in a different color, for only $12.99 each!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. We had cheese fondue and homemade beer the other night. Chris started brewing beer and this is the first batch. I proudly admit that we store the beer in the guest bathroom tub. Redneck beer brewing? {The joys of apartment living}</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Gorgeous stargazer lillies from the grocery store, of all places! These are my all-time favorite flowers. They smell amazing. I WILL use these flowers in my wedding.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. We purchased a bike rack and picked up our bikes from our parents' houses over the weekend. We've been riding a couple times and are looking forward to going on longer rides over the weekend. BWI airport has a 12 mile loop path and I'm excited to get my butt in biking shape {literally. it's a good butt workout}</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. This is not good for my butt.... but who cares? Chris' Spaghetti Pie. It was ready when I came home from work the other day. Yum yum yum.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now for today's <a href="http://storyofmylifetheblog.blogspot.com/2013/04/blog-every-day-in-may-challenge.html" target="_blank">challenge</a>... My 3 worst traits. Easy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- <b>I take on other peoples' problems.</b> This is something I'm <i>really</i> working on lately. Clients, family, friends, I take it all on as my burden. It's okay to a point, because I guess that means I care. However, it's terrible for my well-being and destructive.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- <b>I'm way too self-conscious. </b>I worry about what others think about me. This has improved since I've gotten a little older, but it's still a flaw for sure.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- <b>I have a terrible memory.</b> Terrible. I don't remember anything unless I write it down. I'm horrible with names. I can have a conversation and literally forget all the important details of what was said. I think it's impacted by stress, because sometimes I can remember the most mundane details. Like peoples' dog's names, what nights my favorite tv shows are on, and where my favorite stores in the mall are. Wait, maybe those <i>are</i> the important things ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm hoping to get my pale self in the sun {with sunscreen} during this upcoming long weekend. I need that Vitamin D! What are you getting into this weekend? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Linking up with <a href="http://www.thelaurenelizabeth.com/" target="_blank">Lauren </a>and <a href="http://storyofmylifetheblog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jenni</a></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08680731991228199836noreply@blogger.com7