tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36343151980443628812024-02-19T20:37:18.719-05:00A Few CharmsThese are my stories, chronicling my journey of recovery from depression, anxiety and an eating disorder, using Pandora charms as my reward on the road to being healthy and happy. Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-76080584337669767442020-07-20T18:26:00.002-04:002020-07-20T18:26:41.211-04:00Home is where the heart is - in 2020Are you ready to hear what the charms will be for the remainder of 2020? Let's see if my predictions were correct. But before I do that I want to tell you about the unexpected meaning of the April limited edition charm and what it has to do with the largest mass murder in Canadian history. It hit far too close to home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZbjFXxForJyOF4q36jNkHtPauLT6FwO5owK_GBQtaABdA9r4LTrog5dJdIYF5JLxq81-ptZcQKhUeEP3rMpAIzDU97JiWhwmbeZkgNRMMqOsBgu6qVhZ6-5Wkc-rXhk4iEQuQ2u4w7g/s1600/IMG_5904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="1600" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZbjFXxForJyOF4q36jNkHtPauLT6FwO5owK_GBQtaABdA9r4LTrog5dJdIYF5JLxq81-ptZcQKhUeEP3rMpAIzDU97JiWhwmbeZkgNRMMqOsBgu6qVhZ6-5Wkc-rXhk4iEQuQ2u4w7g/s400/IMG_5904.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The frog, bee and strawberry in the centre section of my 2020 bracelet</td></tr>
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My husband reads the news every morning. On the morning of Sunday, April 19 the headlines in Canadian newspapers were about an "active shooter" in Nova Scotia, the province where we both grew up. I lived in the provincial capital, the city of Halifax, and my husband, in the smaller town of Truro. Our 18-year-old twins attend university just 25 km north-west of the town of Windsor marked on the map below. The news was telling us that this murder spree began in a small coastal town called Portapique.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsC0TzbyJXoALOTevchXP7e2oiH0jeLv75SuqDkaCvuN9dvoSqLCjN39ylAHCqb2A7wE9_jD6k2NZuR7sIxUIbNBzSOMwLfHwm9xSAcNGvu73XFV24Q_exvZcUkf0dSLizTLBR6CWXHA/s1600/IMG_6571.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="795" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsC0TzbyJXoALOTevchXP7e2oiH0jeLv75SuqDkaCvuN9dvoSqLCjN39ylAHCqb2A7wE9_jD6k2NZuR7sIxUIbNBzSOMwLfHwm9xSAcNGvu73XFV24Q_exvZcUkf0dSLizTLBR6CWXHA/s320/IMG_6571.jpeg" width="267" /></a>Having grown up in the city I was not really familiar with that part of the province. The first question I asked my husband was, "How close is the town of Portapique to Truro?" (the answer was 40 km) Mike's mother and his three younger siblings all live in the town to Truro, with their significant others and their children. I then asked, "How close is it to Courtney's house?" Courtney is my son Mitchell's girlfriend from university. Although she went to high school in Truro she lives north-east of the town, so farther from the original murder scene. That was a relief.<br />
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We spent all of that Sunday on our phones, refreshing the news, watching this situation unfold. We worried about where the killer was going next. We kept checking in with family and friends in Truro and Halifax. As events unfolded we watched as the killer moved from Portapique towards Truro. He did enter the town of Truro but then carried on, and was next seen in Stewiake (#2 on the map above) mere miles from my mother-in-law's cottage. He then drove south towards Halifax. It wasn't until he got to Enfield (#3) that his 12-hour rampage was stopped. He left twenty-two people dead in his wake.<br />
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Over the next few days we learned more about what had happened in our small eastern province. The facts below were gleaned from a number of news stories; the information keeps changing as the investigation continues. As someone with PTSD, this was hard to research and write. And it's taken me a few months. I've tried to keep it simple.</div>
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<i>On <b>Saturday, April 18</b> a man in Portapique was at his neighbours' party with his long-time girlfriend. They had an argument and left the party. Once they got home, the argument escalated. He beat his girlfriend, tied her up, and set the house on fire, along with garages and three vehicles. Luckily she managed to escape and spent the night hiding in the nearby woods. The man returned to the neighbours' party, shot and killed a number people, and then proceeded to set that home on fire as well.</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The remains of the shooter's home</td></tr>
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<i><br />Two brothers, Clinton and Corrie, were visiting their father in Portapique that evening and heard what they thought were gunshots and could see a glow in the sky. Corrie left to investigate and offer help. When he didn't return Clinton went to look for him and came upon his body. Corrie had been shot. Clinton could see a flashlight bobbing and fearing for his own life, fled into the woods where he spent many hours. Clinton called his father and warned him to turn out the lights and hide.</i></div>
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<i>When the police arrived shortly before 10:30 pm, they found victims on the road and several structure fires. It appears that the killer visited a number of homes in Portapique and set them on fire. People may have opened their door because they saw a police officer knocking. He may have shot the homeowners or they may have died in the fires. By the time the killer escaped the town he had left 13 people dead - in a town with only 100 residents. It appears that he then holed up for the night in a nearby town called Debert.</i></div>
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<i>It wasn't until the shooter's girlfriend came out of the woods at 6:00 am on Sunday morning - and </i><i>called 911 - </i><i>that the police discovered that the shooter was dressed in an RCMP uniform and driving an RCMP vehicle. He also had several semi-automatic hand guns and two semi-automatic rifles.</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the vehicle the shooter was driving<br />
identical to RCMP vehicles except for the number</td></tr>
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<i><br />On <b>Sunday, April 19</b> the killer drove north to the home of a former girlfriend in an area called Wentworth. He arrived there around 6:30 am. It appears that he stayed some time in their home, not leaving until approximately 9:30 am. While he was there he </i><i>shot the woman and her boyfriend and then</i><i> set their home on fire when he left. B</i><i>ecause my husband works for Corrections Canada w</i><i>e knew that both of these people were correctional officers at two different federal prisons in the area. However their names were not released until officials could search the remains of the house fire and identify their bodies. Seeing the fire, a neighbour - and retired firefighter - rushed to offer assistance but encountered the killer and was gunned down. And, for no apparent reason, the shooter killed a woman just walking down the road on her morning stroll. The shooter, who of course appeared to be a police officer, pulled over a driver and shot her. He then did the same to a second driver. These women were both nurses with the VON (Victorian Order of Nurses). One was on her way to visit a patient in their home; the other going to have a socially-distanced visit with her grandchildren. The shooter drove to the home of yet another family he knew, but they called 911 and did not answer the door.</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the remains in Wentworth</td></tr>
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<i>Around 10:00 am the killer drove through the town of Truro and proceeded south towards Halifax. He stopped in Brookfield to change part of his uniform and then carried on to Shubenacadie where he would encounter the RCMP.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzHPDuEwhWflA56vHe0lDzguY7afQBUiTJrA8vdnm2xRygvLaJDgRSa6EQh8M48ifAT9Rv0dYM2tfcZXbETW-Ru24f61y5BM-ZEmm9x4GsCh8KqIa_a1P7GzuMnq1N7S3iWYM_MaJS5DQ/s1600/IMG_8608+%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="1337" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzHPDuEwhWflA56vHe0lDzguY7afQBUiTJrA8vdnm2xRygvLaJDgRSa6EQh8M48ifAT9Rv0dYM2tfcZXbETW-Ru24f61y5BM-ZEmm9x4GsCh8KqIa_a1P7GzuMnq1N7S3iWYM_MaJS5DQ/s320/IMG_8608+%25281%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Two RCMP officers on duty had arranged to meet at a gas station near Shubenacadie. The first officer to arrive saw another RCMP vehicle pull into the station, assuming it to be his colleague. When it pulled up beside the waiting officer, it was in fact the shooter. He opened fire, the officer was shot, but he managed to drive away and head to a hospital to treat his wounds. Then came the second RCMP officer. She collided head-on with the killer's replica vehicle. They exchanged gunfire and the officer was killed. The shooter set both vehicles on fire. A local man, just out running errands, stopped at the scene of the accident to offer assistance. The shooter killed him and took his vehicle. The shooter stopped at the home of someone else he was acquainted with and shot her as well. He then removed his police uniform and stole her vehicle. When the shooter stopped at a gas station in Enfield to fill up his latest vehicle, he was spotted by another RCMP officer, who also just happened to be filling up his vehicle. Gunfire was exchanged and the killer was finally shot. </i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the 22 victim of the Nova Scotia shooter </td></tr>
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<i><br />As you can see from the photos of the victims, there were a number of couples killed. Most of these people had children, and some had grandchildren. We heard that one family was taken outside their home and the gunman shot the parents in front of their children. One woman, a single parent and a schoolteacher, was killed in Portapique while her two children were on the line with the 911 dispatcher for two hours, huddled in hiding - while </i><i>gunfire and flames raged outside.</i></div>
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Are you wondering what all this has to do with Pandora? Stick with me. All will be be revealed shortly.</div>
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As background, you need to know that in the year 2020 Pandora is celebrating the 20th Anniversary of their charm bracelet concept. Each month Pandora is releasing a charm from earlier collections. The idea is to re-imagine some popular or classic charms. In January they started with the iconic strawberry. February's charm was a frog and March was the queen bee.<br />
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Like many of my Pandora friends I bought the 2020 anniversary heart charm on Monday morning April 20. When it arrived in the mail on the Wednesday it coincided with me having a melt-down. Let me explain.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuFx7QpCgR4xF3gVqZuMGnQuQQpi2MkxClx15RAydgXPfcqvht6yz-A41WMfMyjJlwAvmTxB0KoX3Ec5yfqVVGX3ZD7gH36OfHPEMPWGh8qpC_JQyQBWZinjM1gI6gX_-1smPe__tgCQ/s1600/IMG_6122.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="696" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuFx7QpCgR4xF3gVqZuMGnQuQQpi2MkxClx15RAydgXPfcqvht6yz-A41WMfMyjJlwAvmTxB0KoX3Ec5yfqVVGX3ZD7gH36OfHPEMPWGh8qpC_JQyQBWZinjM1gI6gX_-1smPe__tgCQ/s320/IMG_6122.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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On the Wednesday morning I watched a TV show where the main character lost her father - in a fire. I started to cry. After losing both of my parents I cry more often while watching TV shows or movies, especially if we watch someone die, as I watched my own mother die. I sometimes have to pause the show and let myself ugly cry for a few minutes as I let the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2015/03/managing-emotions-means-learning-to-surf.html">wave of emotions</a> hit me. On this particular occasion, when someone died in a fire, I was sobbing. Hysterically! And I thought to myself, "What on earth is going on?"</div>
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My mind was reeling, "They could have been there. They could have been on that road. They could have been at those gas stations. Imagine if I'd been here alone and they were there! Imagine if I'd had to watch this tragedy and they were 1300 km away. If they were a stone's throw away from this tragedy." As I let that wave of emotions wash over me, I quickly realized what I was feeling. After being embroiled in this tragedy for three days I could finally feel relief. These were tears of relief. I was relieved because Mike and the kids were meant to be there, in Nova Scotia, mere minutes away from all of the murder sites. Near Mike's hometown. Near my mother-in-law's cottage. Near the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park where we took our kids. Near the home of my sister-in-law's father. They were meant to be there that same weekend.</div>
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As I mentioned, our kids are going to university in Nova Scotia. The plan was for Mike to drive to Nova Scotia when their exams were finished and bring them home to Ontario. Taylor's last exam was scheduled to be on April 18 and the residence was closing on April 18. They would have stayed with family in Truro. They would have been there that weekend of April 18th and 19th when all hell broke lose.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taylor and Mitchell in front of their residence<br />
Seminary House</td></tr>
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As it turned out, the coronavirus changed all that. Because of the virus, in-person classes were cancelled and students would finish the term online. Our kids were still in residence and still eating in meal hall but we felt they were safer there. There were no cases of the virus in Nova Scotia at the time and we already had a few in Ottawa. And then the university made the decision that res was closing early.<br />
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Suddenly Mike had to bring them home. We usually take two days to drive to Nova Scotia, staying in a hotel at the half-way point. I was feeling pretty anxious because of the coronavirus and said, "You can't stay in a hotel. Drive straight through. Don't stop at restaurants. Don't touch anything. Wash your hands often. To protect your family you won't be able to stay with them when you arrive." He brought food with him and traveled all the way through, for 16 hours, to Wolfville. He slept in the extra bed in Mitchell's room. The next day he helped the kids get packed up and drove another 16 hours, all the way back to Ottawa. The day they got home the province of Nova Scotia closed its borders. It was such a relief to have them all back home.<br />
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So on that Sunday morning, while we watched the news reports on the tragedy in Nova Scotia, our kids were sleeping here, at home, in their own beds. Sleeping IN of course, because, well, they ARE teenagers after-all.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVkcGfUYIK-2iBZTrUsNBGnjefVe-IrUc9ocQBC9ptDq3qrHj5ChkOuvUoMwFllnjiliEHJ_G4gh1hDxm7KeekUv7G8wD7VRgfnPDX5JLjdX5Yf9alqWevzTc-3nfd9v3TPMWQF5w7MMA/s1600/36bf010c9dbefbdb6ae48380faa72cfe--lunenburg-nova-scotia-where-the-heart-is.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVkcGfUYIK-2iBZTrUsNBGnjefVe-IrUc9ocQBC9ptDq3qrHj5ChkOuvUoMwFllnjiliEHJ_G4gh1hDxm7KeekUv7G8wD7VRgfnPDX5JLjdX5Yf9alqWevzTc-3nfd9v3TPMWQF5w7MMA/s320/36bf010c9dbefbdb6ae48380faa72cfe--lunenburg-nova-scotia-where-the-heart-is.jpg" width="217" /></a><br />
When that heart charm arrived in the mail on Wednesday, just two days after the mass murder, all I wanted to do was hold it in my hands. And remind myself. They are home. With me. They are safe. We are safe. What a relief! This little heart, only purchased because it was a limited edition collector's item - and only cost $40 - was suddenly worth so much more.<br />
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Over the last two months since this tragedy occurred I have realized that my tears were not just tears of relief for my own family, they were also tears of compassion and sadness. I was processing the pain and fear and horror experienced by so many people in Nova Scotia, the victims and those they left behind, especially the children. Even by Wednesday we were hearing that there would likely still be remains in some of the homes that had burned down. It was later confirmed, that of the twenty-two people who were killed, thirteen of those people were shot and nine died in house fires. It is not surprising then that an incident where someone dies in a fire - even if was on a TV show - triggered such strong emotions in me.</div>
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In the days and weeks after this tragedy, as the world grieved for Nova Scotia, and we saw the motto "Nova Scotia Strong," this song was widely shared on social media. This is a song written by Cape Breton's Leon Dubinsky and made popular by The Rankin Family. This version was recorded by a group of female doctors as a tribute to the health care community during this pandemic.</div>
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During this coronavirus, I hope you are with your family. If you are not with them, hold <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/07/the-deepest-secret-nobody-knows.html">them in your heart</a>. And if you have a charm, hold them in your hand. I actually took a picture of the heart charm in my hand. It wasn't very interesting. I think it's better on a bracelet. Scroll down to see how I'm wearing it.</div>
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<b>20th Anniversary Classics</b></div>
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Here are the six remaining charms for the 2020 Anniversary Classics. The pig was released today but we're not 100% sure of which month the others will be released.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuooeTkTRLmYhrKxJ_etpoTC00nANz-gEUrDTJGnQt_MjBCNXVRjBeS2kvQDP1-m7t0pBk1ezzR4pTncHQAeKzlyjyKNuxTnUNxnvnYN7PfZHPLwMBCZ60Il96K7YRfJPobphhioXhLc/s1600/IMG_5927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuooeTkTRLmYhrKxJ_etpoTC00nANz-gEUrDTJGnQt_MjBCNXVRjBeS2kvQDP1-m7t0pBk1ezzR4pTncHQAeKzlyjyKNuxTnUNxnvnYN7PfZHPLwMBCZ60Il96K7YRfJPobphhioXhLc/s320/IMG_5927.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>July: </b>pig's head (original # 790214)</div>
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This was a very surprising choice for the 2020 collection. I would not have guessed that it was very popular and it was not one of the earlier classic charms. If you haven't seen the 2020 pig yet it looks very similar to the original. I don't have the original, but looking at the stock photo I'd say the head of the 2020 one is a little more rounded and the ears are oxidized on the inside. The 20 crown logo is not on the front as it was with previous charms, but on the back of the pig's head.</div>
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<b>August:</b> love you (original # 790200)</div>
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I initially considered this "I LOVE YOU" cube charm in my <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2020/04/first-fifteen-and-twelve-for-2020.html">predictions</a> about the 2020 charms. I thought it may have been a popular charm, especially for gift-giving. But I dismissed it because, at that time, we were expecting all the charms to be (affordable) silver. But we were wrong. They are producing two-tone charms, as we saw with the two-tone clover in May. This one will have the 20 crown logo on the gold heart. I recently purchased the original charm on sale but don't have a home for it yet, so I may put both of them on my 2020 bracelet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5heklAk1V2WccZJQmERNEmquGA8ti0bQqh0QEsiVLbwwovo3VhmusGgkFheBZkRrYNEJobtowHe1Rt7PMJvTQ5Y8D9AmpREtkKoaauvpigF5Z4g45GeKXDghZz3e_JTvpDvVK9N5b1MQ/s1600/IMG_8473.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5heklAk1V2WccZJQmERNEmquGA8ti0bQqh0QEsiVLbwwovo3VhmusGgkFheBZkRrYNEJobtowHe1Rt7PMJvTQ5Y8D9AmpREtkKoaauvpigF5Z4g45GeKXDghZz3e_JTvpDvVK9N5b1MQ/s320/IMG_8473.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>September:</b> simple heart gold clip (original # 750243)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJJNLxVBMsKWT2GrhW7pkMR7xsL58mfV0OBOUFMYwohcCd3KfJdbSYUCiERHuLtJ_4aAO0ZewnBO25ARgrhGlNaOBtIZtjtyYWwlwGKJ4rzQ4oGOzaDPmt5kWC8sJTfnIGcKiZVKAUCY/s1600/download.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJJNLxVBMsKWT2GrhW7pkMR7xsL58mfV0OBOUFMYwohcCd3KfJdbSYUCiERHuLtJ_4aAO0ZewnBO25ARgrhGlNaOBtIZtjtyYWwlwGKJ4rzQ4oGOzaDPmt5kWC8sJTfnIGcKiZVKAUCY/s1600/download.jpeg" /></a>When I first saw the 2020 heart clip I thought my prediction had come true, that they were re-imagining the everlasting love charm into a clip. I'm not familiar with all the gold charms (I only have two gold charms and they were both prizes I won through Pandora contests) and I didn't realize there was a gold clip that looks like the everlasting love. In the photo below you can see the everlasting love, a black and white version of the gold charm, and my drawing of the up-coming clip (I know, it looks like a roll of toilet paper with hearts on it). There had been rumours that there would be a gold charm in the 2020 collection and I wouldn't have wanted to spend the money on that - so I'm glad that they've instead created a silver version of this "simple heart" clip. I hope Pandora realizes that most of us will want two of these!</div>
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<b>October:</b> rose bouquet (original # 790414)</div>
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This charm has the name rose bouquet on the Pandora website but it is sometimes called rose bud and frequently referred to simply as swirls. I've even seen it called doodles, which makes sense. I didn't consider this charm in my predictions because I didn't think they were doing two-tone charms and I didn't think Pandora could engrave the 20 crown logo on here with the swirls and oxidation. But, as they have done with the clover charm, one of the swirls will be a smooth silver surface without oxidation and have the engraving. On a bracelet, this rose charm will be good opposite the clover charm from May. I wear the original rose bouquet charm on my <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/search/label/Vintage%20Charm%20bracelet">Vintage Charm</a> bracelet. If you want a special meaning for this rose charm, check out <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/07/moving-from-self-criticism-to-self.html">this story</a>.</div>
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<b>November:</b> seeing stars (original # 790348)</div>
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The rumours were that there would be a star charm in the 2020 collection, in particular the two-tone "golden star" charm. That was an expensive charm ($220 when I started collecting Pandora in 2011) so I was glad to discover that this silver "seeing stars" will be in the lineup instead. I was surprised by this choice because it is not an old charm (it was released in 2012) but it was available in gold before that, so maybe that's the explanation.</div>
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<b>December:</b> house (original # 790115)</div>
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There were rumours that one of the 2020 charms would be the dog house. That seemed an odd choice on Pandora's part because I can't imagine it was popular. Mind you, they've made a lot of different dogs over the years so I could be wrong. But as it turns out the 2020 charm will be not a dog house, just a house: the original silver house, a very simple, solid (and small) charm. The engraving will be on the roof of the house, on the side without the chimney. I'm glad to see that (in addition to the strawberry) they are using another of the first fifteen charms that Pandora produced. See my last post to see what charms were in the "<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2020/04/first-fifteen-and-twelve-for-2020.html">First Fifteen</a>."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kqJhwK-39C-5jQhT-CWo5Z81j_C0KlKDREP4DgN7GRSxv6FO0B7FdosLuMNxjSxSMkkKA9WgLXbib9G5_vs_br6zkHkmKyrlnjfCYeGWHOB6bwJg9UiOGkEp1iQNbbXhrdBh1U9aWyc/s1600/IMG_8471.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="828" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kqJhwK-39C-5jQhT-CWo5Z81j_C0KlKDREP4DgN7GRSxv6FO0B7FdosLuMNxjSxSMkkKA9WgLXbib9G5_vs_br6zkHkmKyrlnjfCYeGWHOB6bwJg9UiOGkEp1iQNbbXhrdBh1U9aWyc/s320/IMG_8471.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My 2020 bracelet work-in-progress, clockwise from the clasp at the top:</div>
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magnolia, seeing stars, bird house (to represent the 2020 silver house), 2020 heart, 2020 clover, curious cat (to represent the 2020 pig's head), feathered clip, nostalgia murano, darling daisies spacer, ridged mini spacer, 2020 strawberry, 2020 bee, 2020 frog, ridged mini spacer, darling daisies spacer, nostalgia murano, feathered clip, I Love You cube, rose bouquet, silver heart, everlasting love (to represent the 2020 heart clips), tunnel of love, and magnolia clip </div>
Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-26219116142297995282020-04-01T21:04:00.000-04:002020-04-01T21:04:17.144-04:00First Fifteen and Twelve for 2020<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Are you ready to guess what the rest of the anniversary charms will be? Will they be from the "First Fifteen" charms? Read on to see the official list of the "First Fifteen" charms released by Pandora. See the first catalogues. See my predictions for 2020. And see a sneak peak of the engraved anniversary charm for April.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-0QtdwxfaCgaH4k13W5PnIurP3SgOiy66uLSjYomSDEY7ZJHXGYdDRMSzkHtYCE0int_fLltd0TZXM6CLXllyT0xhWKRBwuVZGFupjDC5Xxnss-3acmbeJfw0BT5vNLQV4ZfxZh2Quk/s1600/IMG_6042.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1600" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-0QtdwxfaCgaH4k13W5PnIurP3SgOiy66uLSjYomSDEY7ZJHXGYdDRMSzkHtYCE0int_fLltd0TZXM6CLXllyT0xhWKRBwuVZGFupjDC5Xxnss-3acmbeJfw0BT5vNLQV4ZfxZh2Quk/s320/IMG_6042.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The engraved strawberry and frog (with the originals)<br />
on a box with the Pandora crown symbol</td></tr>
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Before I move on, let me acknowledge that we are in the midst of a global crisis and, by comparison, charms are not that important. But we all need to do the things that make us happy and keep us sane. So I hope my stories are a distraction from the world beyond your front door, and bring you a few moments of joy. But the biggest contribution I can make during this pandemic is to share my stories of my recovery from depression, panic disorder, and an eating disorder. So at the end of this story I will ask you to please let me know what you're struggling with because I may be able to tell a tale that will help.<br />
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So now, back to our regularly scheduled blog post...<br />
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<h3>
20th Anniversary Classics</h3>
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Pandora is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the launch of their unique threaded bracelet. To mark this occasion they are releasing a new series of limited edition charms, one each month in 2020. The charms in the 20th Anniversary Collection will be "classics" that are "re-imagined" and engraved with a special 20-year hallmark using the iconic Pandora crown symbol over the number 20.<br />
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The first charm released in this series was a strawberry. Pandora asked fans "Did you know it was Pandora's fist-ever charm?" A simple silver piece, Pandora's iconic strawberry charm is one of its most-recognized charms. Take a look at this cute video that accompanied the release of the.<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B7iV8c5Cc_A/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">strawberry</a> in January.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ul4mpvAU8hsYBVONyIm7u7IWy0YBjpmlFP7Do_sLTwPGTp1eYAzB2Z5ReVfbGq4MA7CfgNCHkY-Vv4Lb1PRDk3fHLBPLMDCzWCW8Dt38KgxsMLwoAPnTUGVuIeUzSn8jzwqdJ1yRjXI/s1600/IMG_6094.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="828" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ul4mpvAU8hsYBVONyIm7u7IWy0YBjpmlFP7Do_sLTwPGTp1eYAzB2Z5ReVfbGq4MA7CfgNCHkY-Vv4Lb1PRDk3fHLBPLMDCzWCW8Dt38KgxsMLwoAPnTUGVuIeUzSn8jzwqdJ1yRjXI/s320/IMG_6094.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The second charm, released in February, was the frog. Pandora explained that "the playful little frog was a favourite charm upon its original release." I<i> might</i> have dismantled my daughter's Pandora bracelet to take a picture with the original frog. The new frog is a little less stout than his elder, has higher googly eyes, and a different curve to his mouth. Pandora's Instagram video just happens to show what happens when you kiss that <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8yBMykCPYt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">frog</a>'s mouth.<br />
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Check out this Instagram video to see the lovely <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B98q6XknkUK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">bee</a> that was just released on the 20th of March. I was <i>not</i> lucky enough to grab it when it was posted on the Pandora website. By the time it finally popped up I didn't even get it in my shopping basket before it was sold out. I am hoping there are a few bees sitting in my near-by concept store waiting for the start of the warm weather, or the end of the coronavirus lock-down, whichever comes first.</div>
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I find it interesting to see the differences between the original charms and the new releases. You'll have to wait for my story about the strawberry but the differences are quite evident between the new bee charm and the queen bee that inspired it. Most notable is the redesigned crown. Most Pandora collectors will tell you that the crowns on charms can leave quite significant dents in your wrist, so somebody has been paying attention.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GttyB5T6pNGhgBru76c778iBvn6-XWojQXfM44vunbpizOppTZbMD0SXO_-Y-x7nXN1yFo7Vcp-yLthxeT6IH3NR7U-yuO-1eQLNNn-ipMGmjShpunQ2gT_e1LEJVzGsx-a-kWCWS9o/s1600/IMG_6098.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="600" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GttyB5T6pNGhgBru76c778iBvn6-XWojQXfM44vunbpizOppTZbMD0SXO_-Y-x7nXN1yFo7Vcp-yLthxeT6IH3NR7U-yuO-1eQLNNn-ipMGmjShpunQ2gT_e1LEJVzGsx-a-kWCWS9o/s320/IMG_6098.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I asked my Australian friend Vicky if I could use her photo of the new silver bee with her two-tone and gold queen bee. Check out her Instagram for photos of her gold and <i>white</i> gold bracelets and lots of classic Pandora rings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_p_gF0NIJ59uDvpFlw7b-VX_Mv6-wslyGXZLfBTl9YLbKU9bESLwMx8F1qY8C65BVSCSnfoAt7bXCnfij7sq5nygl3rIWpeU78zra5uHz1tIvRX0ku5MGGwCnYBMO6pZ-M8RKq8a6-Q/s1600/IMG_6095.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="599" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_p_gF0NIJ59uDvpFlw7b-VX_Mv6-wslyGXZLfBTl9YLbKU9bESLwMx8F1qY8C65BVSCSnfoAt7bXCnfij7sq5nygl3rIWpeU78zra5uHz1tIvRX0ku5MGGwCnYBMO6pZ-M8RKq8a6-Q/s320/IMG_6095.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">@vickakki</td></tr>
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<h3>
<b>Pandora is about telling stories</b></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyZtadXA4XdkWopj_MUSMVCX38a1wVoAZuq543-1fz583ypZFN7hoqRMz8uu7Noou1DP7_HAe5omBiULOvV2tHXpgNXYeGNmot-H2QCDjEil6AJzr-yhanekgLBX9r5cdIJnJ6FRSUong/s1600/IMG_6126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="828" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyZtadXA4XdkWopj_MUSMVCX38a1wVoAZuq543-1fz583ypZFN7hoqRMz8uu7Noou1DP7_HAe5omBiULOvV2tHXpgNXYeGNmot-H2QCDjEil6AJzr-yhanekgLBX9r5cdIJnJ6FRSUong/s320/IMG_6126.jpg" width="241" /></a></div>
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One of my favourite things about this 20th Anniversary collection is that Pandora is returning to their motto of telling stories, saying "These charms celebrate 20 years of <i>telling your stories</i> with Pandora." In the last few years Pandora moved away from this idea with their "#DO" campaign, "What do you love?" strategy, and new collections from Disney, the "Reflections" concept, and most recently the Pandora "Me" line. But <i>my</i> <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/07/i-have-battled-eating-disorder-and.html">journey with Pandora started</a> in 2011 with me earning charms in my recovery from an eating disorder and depression. I started writing "stories" and posting them on the main Pandora Facebook page. With encouragement from my Pandora friends, I started this blog.<br />
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This year, I decided I was going to get back to writing stories on my blog. It's been on my mind for some time, and I've been sharing quotes in a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/media_set?set=a.10157405970300731&type=3">Facebook album</a> about why it's important to "share your story." But what would be my reward, my incentive?<br />
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And then, ta da, Pandora came to the rescue with a series of 12 charms in 2020. This new marketing strategy hearkens back to the days when Pandora was all about "Unforgettable Moments." And that has motivated me to get back to telling stories about my Pandora charms. Let's see if I can do one story a month to earn the 20th anniversary charms.<br />
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<b>The "First Fifteen"</b></h3>
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From time to time we see this question pop up on the Pandora Facebook pages: <i>What were Pandora's first charms?</i> The introduction of the new 20th Anniversary charms has renewed the interest in this. Well, here's the answer. Directly from Pandora Headquarters. A little over 5 years ago a number of us avid Pandora fans started asking Pandora corporate to confirm what were the first charms that Pandora made. Turns out there were 15. Pandora called them the "First Fifteen." I've kept the list on my phone ever since, but you can also see the list on this <a href="http://www.charmsaddict.com/pandora-first-15/">Charms Addict</a> blog post from 2014.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjinTFVAWQaT9yLpvKRUkAJTUgvXdn9R-2iDRZ-Zr4lfGhoSMELEKeAYxEJiwzh_crK6-ihSCjkWlUii6jxPAnF7PdB3ca69mxJzVZGwMCXuakdpfHGxSZTr0R4fU-9mWVqaCKjpv-Nbs8/s1600/IMG_6109.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="765" data-original-width="765" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjinTFVAWQaT9yLpvKRUkAJTUgvXdn9R-2iDRZ-Zr4lfGhoSMELEKeAYxEJiwzh_crK6-ihSCjkWlUii6jxPAnF7PdB3ca69mxJzVZGwMCXuakdpfHGxSZTr0R4fU-9mWVqaCKjpv-Nbs8/s400/IMG_6109.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "First Fifteen." See names and codes below</td></tr>
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<i>Official "First Fifteen"</i></div>
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<ol>
<li>750117 gold cluster</li>
<li>790111 ladybug</li>
<li>790112 strawberry</li>
<li>790113 fish (aka sideways fish)</li>
<li>790114 snail (aka Nautilus)</li>
<li>790115 house</li>
<li>790116 <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/search/label/dice%20charm">dice</a></li>
<li>790117 silver cluster</li>
<li>790119 faith hope and charity/love</li>
<li>790122 king's crown</li>
<li>790125 <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a> spacer</li>
<li>790127GR silver eye (garnet)</li>
<li>790127P silver eye (peridot)</li>
<li>790128 sun moon and stars</li>
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<li>790132P bevelled pearl dangle</li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUSkgCXGrdEe8f8QhS9pPkHs9RoCw_HKhoDTdxfDU68iAEnZg25-VuF_Z728Cmfj2_NZiNMjOKGksCUvgxwMLMsVKO7b61L_txS0ZLgQ7zA2KNIZ7GFzntY2i8-MUwLPvQfBn83I6o-I/s1600/IMG_5874.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUSkgCXGrdEe8f8QhS9pPkHs9RoCw_HKhoDTdxfDU68iAEnZg25-VuF_Z728Cmfj2_NZiNMjOKGksCUvgxwMLMsVKO7b61L_txS0ZLgQ7zA2KNIZ7GFzntY2i8-MUwLPvQfBn83I6o-I/s320/IMG_5874.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I only have nine of the First Fifteen</td></tr>
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It turns out Pandora didn't have very good archives. The original list that Pandora provided indicated that there was a ladybug with the code 79111. (Pandora's labelling of their charms originally was just 79 for silver; the zero added to 790 later. They use 750 for gold charms.) They referred to this 111 charm as the "old" ladybug with the "new" ladybug having the code 790135. But there was no picture of this "old" ladybug. After some searching, and much speculation, Pandora concluded that the "old" ladybug may have been <i>designed</i> but never actually produced. So the "new" ladybug 790135 is now considered part of the "First Fifteen."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqT1UmWZLawV2EFYFSp4GP_qLprFKQTeq4WZKxQZ3Ft40w56xyoyZlQb6Lg5gs_jDytmr4cLa676fp-DvPioLOBxV0Zf_0aJVShYNVtavmYfzJE8v2gKdytdO_GvrQXK0sUkKLe2v0uSY/s1600/IMG_5819.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqT1UmWZLawV2EFYFSp4GP_qLprFKQTeq4WZKxQZ3Ft40w56xyoyZlQb6Lg5gs_jDytmr4cLa676fp-DvPioLOBxV0Zf_0aJVShYNVtavmYfzJE8v2gKdytdO_GvrQXK0sUkKLe2v0uSY/s1600/IMG_5819.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"First Fifteen" by Leann Wu of Charms Addict blog</td></tr>
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You will frequently see bracelets that are referred to as the "First Fifteen" but most of them have more charms than just the fifteen. The only bracelet I've found that is exclusively "First Fifteen" is from Leann's post on the <a href="http://www.charmsaddict.com/">Charms Addict</a> blog. Although they were not in Pandora's original list of 15, Leann has added the plain clips to cover the threads. Leann has graciously allowed me to share this photo of her bracelet. So the charms are, starting at the clasp at the top and going clockwise: ladybug, strawberry, king's crown, sideways fish, garnet eye, plain clip, house, sun moon and stars, bevelled pearl dangle, gold cluster, snail, plain clip, peridot eye, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a> spacer, faith hope and charity, silver cluster, and <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/search/label/dice%20charm">dice</a>.<br />
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Another collector Celia started a "First Fifteen" bracelet and then discovered people were including different charms on their "First Fifteen" bracelets. So she ended up with more charms than she could fit on her bracelet. Hopefully the list above will help clarify which charms are in fact from the "First Fifteen," but she definitely has some of Pandora's earliest charms on her bracelet, starting at the clasp at the top and going clockwise: peridot eye, ladybug, heart with cz, silver cluster, strawberry, king's crown, DNA, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/search/label/dice%20charm">dice</a>, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a> spacer, snail, confetti, sun moon and stars, sideways elephant, house, circles, heart, faith hope and charity, rose leaf, bear head, garnet eye, sideways fish, bevelled pearl dangle, and the loose charms in the middle are gold bubbles spacer, gold graduation cap dangle, gold cluster and gold flower clip.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJDcG0VSuDTORsHNoLDxmABfcsop6kJOI47hRLyEclvMkEt37rumGsuWSkIV7Rqa3ZSBd3Es9KHW1h5_KUAi-EKddGJEMW1oW4oMknOU5o6s78A4UYDX47fZuh6P6iTuquYJkswtogd4/s1600/IMG_5827.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="707" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJDcG0VSuDTORsHNoLDxmABfcsop6kJOI47hRLyEclvMkEt37rumGsuWSkIV7Rqa3ZSBd3Es9KHW1h5_KUAi-EKddGJEMW1oW4oMknOU5o6s78A4UYDX47fZuh6P6iTuquYJkswtogd4/s320/IMG_5827.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Classic Pandora</b></h3>
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Of course there are a number of charms that were released <i>after</i> the "First Fifteen" but still in the first few years. To create this list I identified early charms by their codes and included charms from Pandora's earliest two catalogues (pictures below). The codes for the frog and the queen bee indicate that they were not particularly early charms - or in those first catalogues. But I have added them to this collection because they have already been released as part of the engraved 20th Anniversary Classic Collection. In this screenshot you can see the names and codes of all of Pandora's earliest charms. To prevent confusion with the "First Fifteen" let's call this whole group "Classic Pandora." </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CkTBg9OLCG5YzX3MfF-0iyRGWPpRkTfTwBflTQW72LTb4ez3cf0i0YddUhQw2F44iV-GtzJMt8s7u8kbrilrFEF_IXxGw50TW6zRm1eqS0Spr6jiZvpmzdvminT-te6V45FQMr_Xg3w/s1600/IMG_6100.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1600" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CkTBg9OLCG5YzX3MfF-0iyRGWPpRkTfTwBflTQW72LTb4ez3cf0i0YddUhQw2F44iV-GtzJMt8s7u8kbrilrFEF_IXxGw50TW6zRm1eqS0Spr6jiZvpmzdvminT-te6V45FQMr_Xg3w/s400/IMG_6100.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic Pandora charms, clips and spacers</td></tr>
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<b>Spacers</b></div>
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You may notice in the stock photos above that there are a number of spacers. There were quite a few spacers in the first catalogues Pandora produced. These are my spacers (below) from the "Classic Pandora." From left to right: two-tone <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a> spacers, large roses spacer (originally produced in gold), crisscross spacer, candy cane spacer, small roses spacers, flat spacers, smooth spacers, big bubbles spacers, small bubbles spacers, line spacers, and ridged spacers. In the <b>Photo Gallery</b> at the very bottom of this post you can see how I've used all of these spacers in my completed bracelets. If you go to the web version of this blog (as opposed to the mobile version) you can scroll to the bottom and see all 21 of my bracelets.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4lPO4ipzeyK2cAHWIzQcbwc9fJ3ZSyX3Zv874t1xtr0rju1pAECW_xtzWXhVnqrVy2Xf7t4IGrdvTBX-3tUm9mdP5a9HQquP5UiaI_oHXKn6M9Lyd1hQkBMd_C6ydr5F2ml9QLOl60Y/s1600/IMG_6040.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4lPO4ipzeyK2cAHWIzQcbwc9fJ3ZSyX3Zv874t1xtr0rju1pAECW_xtzWXhVnqrVy2Xf7t4IGrdvTBX-3tUm9mdP5a9HQquP5UiaI_oHXKn6M9Lyd1hQkBMd_C6ydr5F2ml9QLOl60Y/s320/IMG_6040.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My collection of the "Classic Pandora" spacers</td></tr>
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<b>Birthstone Dangles</b><br />
In addition to the first pieces above, Pandora introduced their first collection of birthstone charms in their <i>second </i>catalogue. These are the charms (below), starting from the top left: garnet for January, amethyst for February, aquamarine for March, quartz for April, chrysophase for May, freshwater pearl for June, carnelian for July, peridot for August, coral (and sapphire) for September, tourmaline for October, amber for November, and lapis lazuli for December. Note that there are two birthstones for September. I have the coral dangle which looked great in the stock photo but it has darkened over time so I suspect that is why they switched to sapphire.<br />
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<b>Pandora's First Catalogues</b><br />
In our discussions with Pandora in 2014 they provided images of their first two catalogues. As I mentioned, they did not have thorough records, and these catalogues have no dates, so speculation was that they were released between the years 2000 and 2002.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KEP3F9cS_X5EQs2vw2Yx2AOit6g1hm13pNtEPwh8FbKTT5ht1MS_mHuOrjlsPsogl4NpNkTAhXW6SHFqqk0MJhc3a0Uoch3sOWFE0dekqzEhNXm9fU7hjUAlRapO-1mn72nJNAQxNBY/s1600/IMG_5773.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="505" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KEP3F9cS_X5EQs2vw2Yx2AOit6g1hm13pNtEPwh8FbKTT5ht1MS_mHuOrjlsPsogl4NpNkTAhXW6SHFqqk0MJhc3a0Uoch3sOWFE0dekqzEhNXm9fU7hjUAlRapO-1mn72nJNAQxNBY/s320/IMG_5773.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First catalogue front and back</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBazmyeT8NP2VnIdXnVzk3lmp8gpUibQ36MBzary2_db0P6E5O9xU7QxKP55OnzQfGSQnjFXob33srqqNTwMmnigexjEPD5vi13jqe1OEj7srN1zG1XedGUBZjDhva2jBSeOVTCo0wvbo/s1600/IMG_5777.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="719" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBazmyeT8NP2VnIdXnVzk3lmp8gpUibQ36MBzary2_db0P6E5O9xU7QxKP55OnzQfGSQnjFXob33srqqNTwMmnigexjEPD5vi13jqe1OEj7srN1zG1XedGUBZjDhva2jBSeOVTCo0wvbo/s400/IMG_5777.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First catalogue pages 2 and 3</td></tr>
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<i>Charms from first catalogue starting at top left:</i><br />
circles (also in pink CZ), gold cluster, king's crown, silver eye (garnet), silver cluster, bevelled pearl dangle, ladybug, heart (pink cz), faith hope and charity/love, gold bubble spacer, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/search/label/dice%20charm">dice</a>, house, plain clip, heart (referred to as the "big smooth heart"), elephant (referred to as the "sideways elephant"), star dangle, curls and dots (or confetti), strawberry, sun moon and stars, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a> spacer, gold flower clip (buttercup clip), fish (we tend to refer to this as the "sideways fish"), bear head, silver DNA<br />
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<i>Charms on bracelet starting at the clasp going clockwise:</i><br />
gold cluster, bubbles spacer, garnet eye, smooth spacer, bevelled pearl dangle, smooth spacer, gold bubbles spacer, sun moon and stars, bubbles spacer, king's crown, gold flat spacer, circles, ridged spacer, sideways elephant, smooth spacer, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a> spacer<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wFu5oP57ihvc4n1aamTnhEX7J_x4G-8lbMjaFtv9mILDYoLDD55H1fuvx2Lg9NlvbBbUmFZKnbWcZZDxVhRxPq44THElkdCQ1JC2j-319Jg_pr9K-Yq9IcQbGm0PpIkn9sV2STHyyio/s1600/IMG_5871.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wFu5oP57ihvc4n1aamTnhEX7J_x4G-8lbMjaFtv9mILDYoLDD55H1fuvx2Lg9NlvbBbUmFZKnbWcZZDxVhRxPq44THElkdCQ1JC2j-319Jg_pr9K-Yq9IcQbGm0PpIkn9sV2STHyyio/s320/IMG_5871.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought I'd try to replicate the bracelet in the first catalogue.<br />
(with a few substitutions)</td></tr>
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<i>Charms on my bracelet (above) starting at the clasp going clockwise:</i><br />
row with dots, small bubbles spacer, peridot eye, flat spacer, birthstone dangle chrysophase (May), smooth spacer, large bubbles spacer, sun moon and stars, large bubbles spacer, mushroom, flat spacer, circles (clear cz), ridged spacer, sideways fish, smooth spacer, gold-tipped flower<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8eu8gseD5NOGae4gE-FPbdhKpffcxrNoxiorES8rZxlsPKClcA5uW29hnSwZXzDGp-GMieHRNOyoLZDUDHVS0WHmb6TP6joHS7WqDTJV9z5o7RA_uu8LWIbUE-HVbvzisCPiYeDVrhQ/s1600/1525761_252762394886441_1441212901_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="719" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8eu8gseD5NOGae4gE-FPbdhKpffcxrNoxiorES8rZxlsPKClcA5uW29hnSwZXzDGp-GMieHRNOyoLZDUDHVS0WHmb6TP6joHS7WqDTJV9z5o7RA_uu8LWIbUE-HVbvzisCPiYeDVrhQ/s400/1525761_252762394886441_1441212901_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second catalogue</td></tr>
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<i>Charms on necklace starting at top left:</i><br />
moon, flat spacer, ring, plain clip, gold roses spacer, bubbles spacer, snail, gold flat spacer, lotsa love, bubbles spacer, heart (pink cz), plain clip, crisscross spacer<br />
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<i>Charms from second catalogue starting at top left:</i><br />
silver DNA, heart (pink cz), <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/06/what-keeps-marriage-strong-three-little.html">rose leaf</a>, ring, web, band, snail, moon (amethyst cz), snake, swirl dots, silver eye (garnet), silver cluster, mushroom, bevelled pearl dangle, row with dots, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/search/label/dice%20charm">dice</a>, blossom (amethyst cz), four-leaf <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2017/03/enjoy-your-cheer-it-comes-but-once-year.html">clover</a>, sun moon and stars, circles, lotsa love, plain clips<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigZJsetP9_XLAOII4wwZC8zengCRcirfaw6yjF8pjkx6n18wWCD5CHk9IkUdpO5MNMk5SqoyWByXwZ3JT9J1DoYEtRS92rtgqI_CiOif3pOeL-Lr1ozzvyS1MbzjCWZsqeXCHZ9mcRAlg/s1600/1560592_252762421553105_969218244_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="719" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigZJsetP9_XLAOII4wwZC8zengCRcirfaw6yjF8pjkx6n18wWCD5CHk9IkUdpO5MNMk5SqoyWByXwZ3JT9J1DoYEtRS92rtgqI_CiOif3pOeL-Lr1ozzvyS1MbzjCWZsqeXCHZ9mcRAlg/s400/1560592_252762421553105_969218244_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second catalogue</td></tr>
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<i>Charms on bracelet starting at the clasp going clockwise:</i><br />
moon (amethyst cz), smooth spacer, big smooth heart, birthstone dangle (amethyst - February), small roses spacer, ribbed clip, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a>, gold bubbles spacer, love hope and faith, king's crown, small bubbles spacer, bear's head, web (diamond), plain clip, gold heart dangle, large bubbles spacer, gold roses spacer, crisscross spacer, gold star dangle, crisscross spacer, snake<br />
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<i>Charms from second catalogue starting at top left:</i><br />
ladybug, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2017/02/one-womans-march.html">8-ball</a>, band (clear cz), birthstone dangle (peridot - August), heart (clear cz), circles (clear cz), strawberry, silver DNA, house, bear's head, moon (clear cz), <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/08/advice-on-managing-anxiety-from-turtle.html">turtle</a>, moon (amethyst cz), sideways elephant, sideways fish, ribbed clip, blossom (clear cz), confetti, silver eye (peridot), zodiac sign (Scorpio), and big smooth heart<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-zTHJmW1dEMBbv3cgxJSYpb8JHIlrpmdumpBF8VK1hsQMmVTVIKwj8YBSHfUExzV9poJfcg_SiqgbKPOr1iuIlxVMITlp_bHERsBN-k964oEQa6DfE0vg4ghcqmVrdxiQOdOdzE-ebc/s1600/IMG_5801.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-zTHJmW1dEMBbv3cgxJSYpb8JHIlrpmdumpBF8VK1hsQMmVTVIKwj8YBSHfUExzV9poJfcg_SiqgbKPOr1iuIlxVMITlp_bHERsBN-k964oEQa6DfE0vg4ghcqmVrdxiQOdOdzE-ebc/s320/IMG_5801.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I also thought I'd try to replicate this bracelet in the photo above<br />
(with a few substitutions)</td></tr>
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<i>Charms on my bracelet (above) starting at the clasp going clockwise:</i><br />
moon (clear cz), smooth spacer, big smooth heart, birthstone dangle (coral), small roses spacer, ribbed clip, gold-tipped flower, big bubbles spacer, faith hope and charity, mushroom, bear head (Winnie-the-Pooh), web, gold flower clip, birthstone dangle (chrysophase), big bubbles spacer, big roses spacer, crisscross spacer, turtle<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YxthwW87b6M2OoiaPD-GCCOsT9JLBMgn-hpS4CQ-aRrTI-slVyPh24019XwTFALVwRry2QK6sLETJiXevxHC9y-XK3bzbLsuBGsSHiQG6N51KqsFScNPcEKJrlrJk0eMAqBVD5HQcmI/s1600/1491604_252762411553106_634360144_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="719" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YxthwW87b6M2OoiaPD-GCCOsT9JLBMgn-hpS4CQ-aRrTI-slVyPh24019XwTFALVwRry2QK6sLETJiXevxHC9y-XK3bzbLsuBGsSHiQG6N51KqsFScNPcEKJrlrJk0eMAqBVD5HQcmI/s400/1491604_252762411553106_634360144_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second catalogue</td></tr>
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<i>Charms from second catalogue starting at top left:</i><br />
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gold flower clip, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/10/i-would-say-all-over-again.html">ring cluster</a>, gold smooth spacer, gold cross dangle, gold bubbles spacer</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
gold big roses spacer, gold heart dangle, web (diamond), gold star dangle, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a>, waves and dots, gold cluster, gold graduation cap dangle, apple with worm, gold flat spacer, gold big smooth heart, king's crown, and gold quilt pattern<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDLyGp_x5-dS825As1XiwcChRGeEJtrnK55JwTK_lzoBOtNTiicXeSXLWDRmg2dtrKDVMvyKXQ3Mn7hcG-CvVX8aaJ3z096G6haSK3mRHHKLOE7zZgGUqunaiIBOhVWVQALyG75H8Hhg/s1600/IMG_5798.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDLyGp_x5-dS825As1XiwcChRGeEJtrnK55JwTK_lzoBOtNTiicXeSXLWDRmg2dtrKDVMvyKXQ3Mn7hcG-CvVX8aaJ3z096G6haSK3mRHHKLOE7zZgGUqunaiIBOhVWVQALyG75H8Hhg/s320/IMG_5798.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First sample bracelet with First Fifteen and Classics</td></tr>
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<i>Charms on my bracelet (above) starting at the clasp going clockwise:</i><br />
ribbed clip, DNA, mushroom, snail, faith hope and charity, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a>, big smooth heart, ladybug, confetti, circles (clear cz), row with dots, strawberry, heart (clear cz), <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a>, sun moon and stars, sideways fish, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/search/label/dice%20charm">dice</a>, peridot eye, and gold flower clip<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQEU1ERtNuD5E_OgZzTw0BkRmtkka-whJkQzjWUdmG9ZIqcXBn-aJo3pERQIEXPkQAsQRTwuZHEDAtTLR3U5HDZBSpud5RgnkLS05uuHgpayrvFCvwZiuo3cabkbsmmOwba1s1mSrB4g/s1600/IMG_5810.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQEU1ERtNuD5E_OgZzTw0BkRmtkka-whJkQzjWUdmG9ZIqcXBn-aJo3pERQIEXPkQAsQRTwuZHEDAtTLR3U5HDZBSpud5RgnkLS05uuHgpayrvFCvwZiuo3cabkbsmmOwba1s1mSrB4g/s320/IMG_5810.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Second sample bracelet with First Fifteen and Classics</span></td></tr>
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<i>Charms on my bracelet (above) starting at the clasp going clockwise</i>:<br />
ribbed clip, web, ring, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2017/02/one-womans-march.html">8-ball</a>, blossom, Zodiac sign (Scorpio), <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a>, starburst clip, waves and dots, snail, rose leaf, strawberry, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/10/i-would-say-all-over-again.html">ring cluster</a>, starburst clip, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a>, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2017/03/enjoy-your-cheer-it-comes-but-once-year.html">clover</a>, <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/search/label/dice%20charm">dice</a>, spple, band, large roses spacer, gold flower clip<br />
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<h3>
<b>My Predictions for the 20th Anniversary Classics</b></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DcHkrIhxYoFuajbD4mRB2M8HdT0U943BJAPgHZCw6ykr1pHAsoUxtJnjtnO2QRGskKZhdBXPsoCDVjphQhQOcTmyB2PJS9Nt_OhKLH9QBOu1Rsnn8eDgRdFKSWZaPzbJET1hICP5kk4/s1600/IMG_6041.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DcHkrIhxYoFuajbD4mRB2M8HdT0U943BJAPgHZCw6ykr1pHAsoUxtJnjtnO2QRGskKZhdBXPsoCDVjphQhQOcTmyB2PJS9Nt_OhKLH9QBOu1Rsnn8eDgRdFKSWZaPzbJET1hICP5kk4/s320/IMG_6041.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My predictions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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In trying to predict which "classic" charms would be used as the 20th Anniversary series, I looked at the "First Fifteen" charms and the earliest "Classic Pandora." I considered which were likely to be popular charms that people would buy for themselves or buy as gifts. And I also thought about which charms Pandora would be able to engrave without making significant changes to the charm, ruling out those with too much pattern or depth, the ones that had stones, and the highly oxidized.<br />
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So I'm predicting that eight of these ten charms will be included, starting from the left: ladybug, turtle, big smooth heart, suitcase, snail, sideways fish, cupcake, apple with the worm, everlasting love, and the silver rose. My apple is not the one with the worm, but I thought I'd include it for the photo. And I suspect they will also include the king's crown, because it was engraved as a gift for passengers on one of the Pandora cruises, but I don't have the charm to include in my photo.<br />
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I took my photos in February and it looks like one of my predictions was correct: the big smooth heart for April.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidU2Ob47IdWA7-8FfaUOTvFG9MnW7a-iYpaVBH8oZL2MbqYE0Y-oisFOAJjNGxsDf33eOSoDlusNEC0raGvgtUfYYqXXmWSYSNryHjTrv4JenpsYdvRRuxmbvlIayR87j6lZsnvpJC9po/s1600/IMG_6122.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="696" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidU2Ob47IdWA7-8FfaUOTvFG9MnW7a-iYpaVBH8oZL2MbqYE0Y-oisFOAJjNGxsDf33eOSoDlusNEC0raGvgtUfYYqXXmWSYSNryHjTrv4JenpsYdvRRuxmbvlIayR87j6lZsnvpJC9po/s320/IMG_6122.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Final Request:</b></div>
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Please tell me which charms you would like to hear about or what topics you want to read about. You can leave comments below or you can email me at shift.training@gmail.com Stay tuned for monthly blog posts.</div>
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<h3>
<b>Related Posts</b></h3>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-many-balls-are-you-juggling.html">How many balls are you juggling?</a> - a story about how it feels to be juggling so much in your life, you feel that if someone throws you one more ball they may all come tumbling down around you. Seems like a timely topic when some people are suddenly working from home, teachers are thrust into online teaching, and parents have their kids at home while we all practice social/physical distancing. Read about the "waves and dots" charm and why I'm talking about "The Cat in the Hat."<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/08/advice-on-managing-anxiety-from-turtle.html">Advice on managing anxiety - from a turtle!</a> - a story about my very first charm, on the very first day of my recovery from an eating disorder, and one of the most important reminders when I'm in fight-or-flight mode and tempted to binge. I share one of the most effective ways to slow down racing or anxious thoughts.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-turtle-part-two-gimme-some-fin.html">The turtle part 2: advice for anxious parents</a> - a story about how heart-breaking it is when you see your children struggle, with strategies we used for helping our son with intense emotions like anger and anxiety. You can also read one of the best pieces of advice I've come across for anxious parents - from a turtle!<br />
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2017/03/prescription-for-panic-ice-ice-baby.html">Prescription for panic: ice, ice baby</a> - a story about how to calm a body revved by stress, how to understand what's going on in your body when you're angry or anxious, and how to rescue yourself from a panic attack.<br />
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2015/01/sometimes-you-just-buy-charm-because.html">Pandora bras and butts, oh my!</a> - a story about bare butts, titties and studs, and the charm that reminds me not to take life too seriously. I hope this story won't ruin the meaning <i>you </i>assign to the April charm, the engraved big smooth (or "puffy") heart.</div>
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/07/moving-from-self-criticism-to-self.html">Moving from self-criticism to self-acceptance - inspired by a simple silver rose</a> - a story about negative self-talk, how to stop criticizing ourselves and how to be at peace with wherever we are at the moment, inspired by the rose charm (one of my predictions for the Twelve in 2020)<br />
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/11/will-he-always-love-me.html">Will he always love me? My explanation of panic attacks</a> - a story about what triggers panic attacks for me, the therapy that helped, and the reason for the Everlasting Love charm (another of my predictions for the Twelve in 2020)<br />
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This was my first bracelet called my <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2016/11/when-your-brain-and-body-scream-911.html">Lucerne Recovery</a> bracelet. The name references the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/09/do-i-really-deserve-to-be-happy-and.html">Lucerne dangle</a> and Lucerne clips. On this bracelet you can find the rows and dots, sun moon and stars, candy cane spacer, crisscross spacer, web, birthstone dangle, and faith, hope and charity/love.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufLAmsBNnUZtXia8fgg350l9ncfqVYQwPozLF6I2e_vV2Zuh_gtu_7uEjkEIxxralU_nxlCflxFPzHaSrO4DjHLwUBiOvCdjvO9RcQtmRkO_eHpgkBFOe-T95gtW-QjHIQjddG8rwvu8/s1600/IMG_1819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufLAmsBNnUZtXia8fgg350l9ncfqVYQwPozLF6I2e_vV2Zuh_gtu_7uEjkEIxxralU_nxlCflxFPzHaSrO4DjHLwUBiOvCdjvO9RcQtmRkO_eHpgkBFOe-T95gtW-QjHIQjddG8rwvu8/s320/IMG_1819.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My Sacred Woods bracelet is home to the peridot eye charm (on the right). On this bracelet you may notice one of the original "mini" spacers called the "ridged" spacer, right beside the clasp. Often an openwork charm will be large enough to slide over the threads and get tangled with the clasp. One of these mini spacers prevents that from happening. I've done the same in the Lucerne bracelet above.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Vcl9q9QBpa1vUc5pmE4oiXTwjn2Y8emzAxSCN3FXUqezLci_OqoFS_4i0wL66jaua27NhBzrGL9HzJwB9LQEKQ1J9dwIxWXylJxQpuubOxFmGsra3PUL4WboQNR5csZE1gpjoAgXs3o/s1600/IMG_0572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Vcl9q9QBpa1vUc5pmE4oiXTwjn2Y8emzAxSCN3FXUqezLci_OqoFS_4i0wL66jaua27NhBzrGL9HzJwB9LQEKQ1J9dwIxWXylJxQpuubOxFmGsra3PUL4WboQNR5csZE1gpjoAgXs3o/s320/IMG_0572.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Sparkle and Shine bracelet is a collection of retired charms with clear cubic zirconion. On either side of the centre dangle you can find the band, circles, blossom and heart with cz .</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZfN4PZ17v_BKA-bfF1EC1S5M1p2iSidfukn7UoC9tPgJBBlml0zkvqdUuvTaslcCVNdQ2552Zh0VhH7IP9rOR56avalbxkPFQuaV0AKOs5IhHhgy94mz67LnBsxox-oIByEIv1DWloM/s1600/IMG_1757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZfN4PZ17v_BKA-bfF1EC1S5M1p2iSidfukn7UoC9tPgJBBlml0zkvqdUuvTaslcCVNdQ2552Zh0VhH7IP9rOR56avalbxkPFQuaV0AKOs5IhHhgy94mz67LnBsxox-oIByEIv1DWloM/s320/IMG_1757.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">band, circles, blossom, heart</td></tr>
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This bracelet, my mother and son bracelet, contains the turtle and the sideways fish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR12FaZhUNSp2E3RPi1isMqIFPLdr8QGEYAxwCD25YTjEBlKPBAx1gOS8Bxd5vRRox8YC16sYhkCRQGXu6zkou_xrcMJubAdRYnTfFyWA5fx3mFpqZOKQXeDuLzYZyKNFLzhwJrG_iZy0/s1600/My+%25231+Son.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR12FaZhUNSp2E3RPi1isMqIFPLdr8QGEYAxwCD25YTjEBlKPBAx1gOS8Bxd5vRRox8YC16sYhkCRQGXu6zkou_xrcMJubAdRYnTfFyWA5fx3mFpqZOKQXeDuLzYZyKNFLzhwJrG_iZy0/s320/My+%25231+Son.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This bracelet is all classic/vintage two-tone charms, many of them with diamonds. You can see the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a> spacer on either side of the central <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2015/08/sheila-and-mike-excellent-anniversary.html">vintage heart dangle</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3qK4uHv5mof6_SHpSHbkjkVFTVV7qcVoSalqB-BAGucPZueEiUW-fospUBj6HojGKy8KA0JGgVvZXP2klY4wt4qxLZm9IDDaKAKBL5vorVd3DKZMw3PBvmlv68UVwlSdZSgyTDfe9c4/s1600/Vintage+Charm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3qK4uHv5mof6_SHpSHbkjkVFTVV7qcVoSalqB-BAGucPZueEiUW-fospUBj6HojGKy8KA0JGgVvZXP2klY4wt4qxLZm9IDDaKAKBL5vorVd3DKZMw3PBvmlv68UVwlSdZSgyTDfe9c4/s320/Vintage+Charm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html">gold-tipped flower</a> spacers so much that they are one of the few charms I have repeats. You can see them on this two-tone Serenity bracelet on either side of the central Serenity dangle. In the central section of this bracelet you can also see the two-tone apple and two-tone cupcake, two of the charms I predict will be in the Twelve for 2020.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0xGrOL5-pObvz5coFch1MC1aZmi2Jur0okXZMoChiJq7d_n7HbQsqVREBnAZ5goFxQTzVFpd62dNtTAGvHtyN0KcnGgw9VaJ3rmNs-EIbjVTod6m1x7VvKc40x3NUH-wpz13Vy8xqls/s1600/Serenity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0xGrOL5-pObvz5coFch1MC1aZmi2Jur0okXZMoChiJq7d_n7HbQsqVREBnAZ5goFxQTzVFpd62dNtTAGvHtyN0KcnGgw9VaJ3rmNs-EIbjVTod6m1x7VvKc40x3NUH-wpz13Vy8xqls/s320/Serenity.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This bracelet is a chronology of my late mother's life. You can see the confetti charm beside the centre dangle, representing the confetti at my parent's wedding. There is also the DNA charm and the suitcase charm on the left.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7sNy2rtxiaMJH3JveJExF0iBptfK0lAcJtfaZbcSe2UwkhVgLqgqwoY30M8oU0m3v129NUDhHhJ76ZPzMkzequcpbjOIoelGgTNQdFcH0oG77P9m1uBpgfBup6dnVOZ3Ljh3sTzfvUVk/s1600/My+Unforgettable+Mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7sNy2rtxiaMJH3JveJExF0iBptfK0lAcJtfaZbcSe2UwkhVgLqgqwoY30M8oU0m3v129NUDhHhJ76ZPzMkzequcpbjOIoelGgTNQdFcH0oG77P9m1uBpgfBup6dnVOZ3Ljh3sTzfvUVk/s320/My+Unforgettable+Mom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is my <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2015/06/dont-be-afraid-to-let-them-see.html">True Colours</a> bracelet which has the ribbed clip at the end and then the silver charms, snail, ladybug, clover, dice, strawberry, mushroom, and then right by the clasp a smooth spacer. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MsFfLf-lP_3kfHSsNzHS9fbOeWxj2ge5hZQ88NY-exEbd7MPm2thjDJeS30KJD4_5PBZKSLqQdjJsS9e5RhsfcSzebiP4UbjHP_A8N3Nf_9F6ZTsvz2DUUVGPy0EUEFEv9zZaj7vBx4/s1600/True+Colours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MsFfLf-lP_3kfHSsNzHS9fbOeWxj2ge5hZQ88NY-exEbd7MPm2thjDJeS30KJD4_5PBZKSLqQdjJsS9e5RhsfcSzebiP4UbjHP_A8N3Nf_9F6ZTsvz2DUUVGPy0EUEFEv9zZaj7vBx4/s320/True+Colours.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This Treasured Hearts bracelet, named for the central "treasured hearts" charm, contains the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2017/02/one-womans-march.html">8-ball</a> charm. When designing this I found that the hidden romance charms seemed to cover part of the central heart-shaped charm so I placed a smooth spacer on either side to give it more, well, space.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYzX5kaon5Dg7C0Bp5dLgnT7AXZArQpacHf_eDXcnIhGA01Dtbv5Ko6zOIZk-bwuB-KimJ7vHh6QUNnr7xuLBwfjj4n5BBj-UYhLoXj4o7_sXH0mSZ8jjSR7iRnKSuYlck0CiDH8q4h0/s1600/Treasure+Hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYzX5kaon5Dg7C0Bp5dLgnT7AXZArQpacHf_eDXcnIhGA01Dtbv5Ko6zOIZk-bwuB-KimJ7vHh6QUNnr7xuLBwfjj4n5BBj-UYhLoXj4o7_sXH0mSZ8jjSR7iRnKSuYlck0CiDH8q4h0/s320/Treasure+Hearts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-72510531291992396052018-12-04T10:13:00.000-05:002018-12-04T10:13:39.727-05:00How I smashed my face and my finger - and found loveA fall and a trip to the Emergency Room made me realize something significant about my kids; something that I was surprised that I didn't know already. Let me tell you how I got injured and then tell you how I came to this realization - and shocked my kids with my announcement.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtDW6SNMU7PmRKzn-8ENEFI_nrShO6hYjtUb46fM_wVZMO86qVHfDJ54YMV-_r695ZkS7C6Az0055IYrhoeHmo77wIPDqXh4kfqCr5O7yDgMjZJfcoU5LsudqOlDIcu9wTHdQg0GN5gTw/s1600/EDB4090E-22A4-403A-8207-CE07F9B8C2E2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtDW6SNMU7PmRKzn-8ENEFI_nrShO6hYjtUb46fM_wVZMO86qVHfDJ54YMV-_r695ZkS7C6Az0055IYrhoeHmo77wIPDqXh4kfqCr5O7yDgMjZJfcoU5LsudqOlDIcu9wTHdQg0GN5gTw/s320/EDB4090E-22A4-403A-8207-CE07F9B8C2E2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Pandora Rose Essence bracelet</td></tr>
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Shortly after moving to a new home in August (yes I have lots of news that I need to catch you up on), I had an accidental fall. We now live in a condo, a series of row houses, attached to our neighbours on both sides. We have a small back yard that is mostly filled by a deck and the rest of the property is shared space and cared for by the condo corporation. Because we had just moved, we had some plants that we had dug up and brought to our new place. Unfortunately we left those plants in the common space beyond our deck. One morning I heard the sounds of lawn mowers and had a moment of panic, thinking they were going to drive their mowers right over our plants. So I rushed out the back door. The steps leading from our deck down to ground level had been removed temporarily while we were doing some gardening. When I rushed outside to save my plants I took a big step down and subsequently did a face plant.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0BX0TY1k_UYVJUl7iNTGlGo0hl4RQnQw7i9j7cLL2JsphAtSw4lV4fso-P-UripR4AZ70fG3q8HOewMgCJ79xZzRZbnWDagqqVxj_lNw_bPe1aIVGatjDABo9KJtWXdb8Ag06pC9Fsw/s1600/34825101_10156194032550731_3853885055327797248_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="512" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0BX0TY1k_UYVJUl7iNTGlGo0hl4RQnQw7i9j7cLL2JsphAtSw4lV4fso-P-UripR4AZ70fG3q8HOewMgCJ79xZzRZbnWDagqqVxj_lNw_bPe1aIVGatjDABo9KJtWXdb8Ag06pC9Fsw/s400/34825101_10156194032550731_3853885055327797248_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our backyard deck (photo from previous tenants)<br />
Stairs on the left going down to the flagstone path</td></tr>
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When I stepped down off the desk I lost my balance. I think the flagstones were wobbly. I immediately fell forward, landed on my knees first and continued falling forward until I slammed my face into the solid wood fence. I crushed my glasses into my face, cutting the edge of my eye and bending the arm of the glasses at a 90 degree angle. I seemed to have banged my baby finger straight into the wall, probably in attempt to stop, or at least slow down, the imminent collision - which must have been a hard impact given the forward momentum of my 300+ pounds. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BP_2GKIF2DbOmyMLG1_XixnMUBPFPgEFNzBlXj-xJbgsN5vRVm488wjB-Ha8xM9DLGtrrtwVeTlp1UuGOErLU8VGDliXGzhk8c-CwZVDUgSFylLkglcnWxP6jIN9-9yhJICrvKJOij4/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BP_2GKIF2DbOmyMLG1_XixnMUBPFPgEFNzBlXj-xJbgsN5vRVm488wjB-Ha8xM9DLGtrrtwVeTlp1UuGOErLU8VGDliXGzhk8c-CwZVDUgSFylLkglcnWxP6jIN9-9yhJICrvKJOij4/s320/1.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The overgrown flagstone path and the wooden fence (on the left)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEYS8oze2FtAgnSrfo8-nrzP09HJbdHZsR1PHDJlcmunUOyqzjSpWiN4U7edRMpUifCdX-dEE__IhbPgfnqhqUkUMSTge1C2seLM-3BONWPQyMlH1koBDzY6guCctxtCjdVB5tX8Ns2A/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEYS8oze2FtAgnSrfo8-nrzP09HJbdHZsR1PHDJlcmunUOyqzjSpWiN4U7edRMpUifCdX-dEE__IhbPgfnqhqUkUMSTge1C2seLM-3BONWPQyMlH1koBDzY6guCctxtCjdVB5tX8Ns2A/s320/2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stairs on the grass waiting to be repositioned</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlOLDwuj0LZfEbdi7GkdJvDWkecvWgn_riiQvcvPzj3r496GR0Qrnpr_YJPruif2gzcBH75MW92jZ_FByhPh4ArWen7JVRRqJGWk1SPs_yXH2N2qEUXVFtfmaWtl5tJxfRi6SLyXwj5Q/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlOLDwuj0LZfEbdi7GkdJvDWkecvWgn_riiQvcvPzj3r496GR0Qrnpr_YJPruif2gzcBH75MW92jZ_FByhPh4ArWen7JVRRqJGWk1SPs_yXH2N2qEUXVFtfmaWtl5tJxfRi6SLyXwj5Q/s320/3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where the stairs used to be</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhldppMpV-4VUqHprZ5Okw_n9i3_GPpk7TJLo0Fn62ITkdfTaM5JFeDLmRGuPq98I3XT28xO_VWZJ-ZpBo-niWtWZ84CkiYC09hP3gFuu7T49io-9bO8APm4bsbCBT_d909LvqSW2OU1c/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhldppMpV-4VUqHprZ5Okw_n9i3_GPpk7TJLo0Fn62ITkdfTaM5JFeDLmRGuPq98I3XT28xO_VWZJ-ZpBo-niWtWZ84CkiYC09hP3gFuu7T49io-9bO8APm4bsbCBT_d909LvqSW2OU1c/s320/4.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flagstone path under construction<br />
- definitely wobbly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Still focused on my rescue mission, I pulled myself to my feet - not an easy task when you are as heavy as me - and ran over to grab the plants and put them on the deck. Then I realized that my finger was bent at an unusual angle. And I couldn't straighten it. Correction: I couldn't<em> actively</em> straighten my finger. If I used my other hand I could <em>passively</em> straighten it but boy did that hurt! And every time I moved my hand, the finger would snap back into the bent position - and that hurt even more!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70pTcBM2j0EHPUtiZsxZzbJGpuxOyt9KG4gXZln5w9tsf27-gelapfCT4E37YJPP1Qv6D68_JDdxGLN4Fc5jJ3xypi7jQTLBtRDrDrn2c_7SOFUpuLHpRLD1vjbxDpoluKhgH9IRFb-M/s1600/IMG_5409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="818" data-original-width="1600" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70pTcBM2j0EHPUtiZsxZzbJGpuxOyt9KG4gXZln5w9tsf27-gelapfCT4E37YJPP1Qv6D68_JDdxGLN4Fc5jJ3xypi7jQTLBtRDrDrn2c_7SOFUpuLHpRLD1vjbxDpoluKhgH9IRFb-M/s320/IMG_5409.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My baby finger wanted to stay bent at this angle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My husband Mike and our then 16-year-old son Mitchell were both at work that morning, but my daughter Taylor (Mitchell's twin sister) was home. When I came inside I called for her to come help me. My face and my finger were bleeding so I was cleaning myself up in the powder room when she came and found me. I had also injured my knee in the fall and wrenched my back. My back was going into spasms and all I really wanted to do was climb into bed. Taylor bandaged my finger (it was bleeding from being scraped on the wooden fence), and she told me I needed to go to the hospital.<br />
<br />
I was reluctant to go to the hospital. I just wanted to crawl into a dark corner - or my bed - and lick my wounds, figuratively of course. But Taylor appeared very concerned about me and said I probably needed x-rays. I was surprised that she was so concerned. I'd never seen her like that. So I gave in, and Taylor called my husband Mike who came home from work and took me to the Emergency Room.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxleyIh98EfYT2hdM9T4ndp0jbioGCi2XBAZHABJW3hVTmLukusqTBP4f30WXsmWdDyXE99y48U2zttCagQxmwcvyI0NignwLZV_YwYJ9KSqC7-npwIggGbjyZPsX9AyLo4ozNbFvgQM/s1600/38186299_10156315835140731_7799856142217117696_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="739" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxleyIh98EfYT2hdM9T4ndp0jbioGCi2XBAZHABJW3hVTmLukusqTBP4f30WXsmWdDyXE99y48U2zttCagQxmwcvyI0NignwLZV_YwYJ9KSqC7-npwIggGbjyZPsX9AyLo4ozNbFvgQM/s320/38186299_10156315835140731_7799856142217117696_n.jpg" width="262" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My face after I smashed it into the fence</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the hospital, the doctors were more concerned about my head than they were my finger. I take Warfarin, a blood thinner, because I have an autoimmune condition called antiphospholipid syndrome. As I mentioned in a previous post (<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2016/02/bellies-and-babies-and-girlie-parts.html">Bellies and babies and "girlie parts"</a>) I'm at risk for blood clots (both venous and arterial) and will be on the blood thinners for the rest of my life. It hadn't occurred to me that hitting my head could mean bleeding on the brain, something you apparently don't want when you are on blood thinners. So there were x-rays and an MRI, of my finger and my head, and everything was fine - no fractures, no brain bleed.<br />
<br />
During my long wait in the ER Taylor kept texting me asking how I was so I sent her updates. I couldn't understand why she was so worried.<br />
<br />
Mike left me at the hospital while he went to pick up Mitchell after work. We had a brief visit at the hospital and then Mike took him home. I didn't see Mitchell that night or before he left for work the next morning. As soon as he came home from work, Mitchell immediately came upstairs to check on me. He wanted an update. He asked about my back. He was clearly worried. And I was genuinely puzzled by his reaction. What did all this mean?<br />
<br />
To finish the saga of my accident, I will tell you that my head is fine (well, there's no fracture or bleeding anyways), but my finger is not. It's still crooked and messed up. I have what's called "Boutonniere's deformity" from a torn ligament and I'm seeing a plastic surgeon in December. Plastic surgeons (rather than orthopaedic surgeons) do all the delicate work required for hands and fingers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZeT0uCzRhuvJHtOJG16U3pWjc4v_WylZm74Xq1UVt6P2yFtqamWQH7QkJvjDZEEiqwr2V_5sFESiEQKEBoT-CVWu9HqPvxjrr-aAIjIiS6ANA4vQHZ6-knWzw4wU6U7Z5OA_idM-dz0/s1600/IMG_5410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1081" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZeT0uCzRhuvJHtOJG16U3pWjc4v_WylZm74Xq1UVt6P2yFtqamWQH7QkJvjDZEEiqwr2V_5sFESiEQKEBoT-CVWu9HqPvxjrr-aAIjIiS6ANA4vQHZ6-knWzw4wU6U7Z5OA_idM-dz0/s320/IMG_5410.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7Ql4g4F1pNwTLfJ9rFqotW4VpSvGSxc1VlrokPpfLVnSfeIa4uM_CicAN6dqoVVQtVokefUYkcLb9NYzE6MYAE0Gb_-SNJq5bcqmUPUzmPlRQ_xZDTQQtCcIQT_cEBPe6945DW4WCTQ/s1600/41637540_10156409031290731_64626347133108224_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7Ql4g4F1pNwTLfJ9rFqotW4VpSvGSxc1VlrokPpfLVnSfeIa4uM_CicAN6dqoVVQtVokefUYkcLb9NYzE6MYAE0Gb_-SNJq5bcqmUPUzmPlRQ_xZDTQQtCcIQT_cEBPe6945DW4WCTQ/s1600/41637540_10156409031290731_64626347133108224_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2eAS1eKNZaj-kqkZRJLtThEafkukg9o-lMsLM6rlNKfN85JWdvNPyXGUSmDVjeKQ3cibRoSg66CY7abJetUL-aLMnXzE3VlkzUigKHzTMsRPh-QG_iEmAC-tZ35RiyWmtrpQZZaty8g/s1600/41503631_10156409031225731_1036292131540434944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="340" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2eAS1eKNZaj-kqkZRJLtThEafkukg9o-lMsLM6rlNKfN85JWdvNPyXGUSmDVjeKQ3cibRoSg66CY7abJetUL-aLMnXzE3VlkzUigKHzTMsRPh-QG_iEmAC-tZ35RiyWmtrpQZZaty8g/s320/41503631_10156409031225731_1036292131540434944_n.jpg" width="167" /></a></div>
<br />
Over the next few weeks I pondered how my kids reacted to my accident and my injuries. And I found myself saying, "I guess they love me."<br />
<br />
You might be surprised to hear that. I know that <em>I</em> was surprised to hear <em>myself</em> say that! And what it came down to, what I realized, was that I had not actually <em>known</em> that before - truly <em>believed</em> it. So I was now thinking, "They were concerned about me. They were worried about me. They care about me. Huh. I guess they love me."<br />
<br />
One night in October, while we were all sitting at the dinner table, I made a little announcement. I told the kids this story, of how their concern and caring after my accident made me realize they love me. They were shocked! They said, "Of course we love you!" They were quite put out, frankly. Insulted even. Their responses were along the lines of "Why would you think that we <em>didn't</em> love you?"<br />
<br />
That stopped me in my tracks. "Why?" The only answer that I could give them at the time was, "I guess when you have depression you don't think <em>anyone</em> loves you." But I don't know if that's true; if other people with depression have this problem.<br />
<br />
So over the next few weeks I pondered some more. I certainly have times that would make <em>anyone</em> question whether their teenager loves them: when they are annoyed with me, irritated by me, impatient with me, and complain about me - or tease me. As frustrating as that can be, that wasn't quite the full story. That's not the real reason I didn't know that my kids love me. The real reason wasn't about them. It was about me. I didn't think I was lovable. And that is what we call a "core belief."<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioreY-dpu8o-jKy9xG5_gHPI6OrJP9MSwRvriEXIs-lhnz-1AqKLMwJ64hYGC8egvWvODusYF-Q1uS8cWbjXN_ZcBKAJo6IsdVlax8pE19AxCPDCXUJ9RsM0JOQ-T9w-ypESO_HWApOlg/s1600/IMG_3088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="806" data-original-width="1080" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioreY-dpu8o-jKy9xG5_gHPI6OrJP9MSwRvriEXIs-lhnz-1AqKLMwJ64hYGC8egvWvODusYF-Q1uS8cWbjXN_ZcBKAJo6IsdVlax8pE19AxCPDCXUJ9RsM0JOQ-T9w-ypESO_HWApOlg/s320/IMG_3088.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For my birthday I asked for some Pandora Rose Essence charms<br />
to go with my Luminous Rose bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Having been through schema-focused therapy a few years ago, I recognized that I had just identified a schema or "lifetrap." These schemas or core beliefs are formed in our childhood and reinforced throughout our lives. They impact how we think, how we feel and how we act, especially in relation to others - they impact our every day. This is what happens with core beliefs. They are so fundamental that you don't even realize you have them, until something happens that contradicts those beliefs. Like your kids worrying about you. Loving you.<br />
<br />
I did not know that I had the core belief that I am somehow defective and "I am unlovable." I mean it makes sense. It helps explain some of the anxiety about being judged, the self-criticism, the eating disorder, the depression. I didn't know that people could love me. <br />
<br />
It's like believing in Santa Claus. When you're a kid you believe with all your heart that Santa is a real thing. You pay attention to clues that reinforce that belief and you ignore any evidence that might dissuade you. And then over time, or all-of-a-sudden, you know, you just know, that there is no Santa. And it makes you wonder how you could have possibly believed that Santa was real. And you'll never ever go back to believing that Santa is real.<br />
<br />
I'm sure that I ignored lots of evidence that people love me. But this new evidence, seeing my kids' behaviours, changed my belief. I have come to feel that it is possible to be loved. That someone else <em>could</em> feel love for me. That I am someone that another <em>could </em>love. That I am <em>worthy</em> of their love. That I am, in fact, lovable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MsNkoHakSzmuV4eaCq_e-FtuKUfRHcwko1NH634N_gjvhCIcd_f8Dw2mNV7z4cvO3ISrfD-aTvVz_jtmVYojvb2kx28mQPiaxHsankMcQRhDYi5N3xoWv7-NvCZGmNrdCGM4APwAyu0/s1600/CA1E0424-3BF0-4204-910A-10A6F3A6E605.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MsNkoHakSzmuV4eaCq_e-FtuKUfRHcwko1NH634N_gjvhCIcd_f8Dw2mNV7z4cvO3ISrfD-aTvVz_jtmVYojvb2kx28mQPiaxHsankMcQRhDYi5N3xoWv7-NvCZGmNrdCGM4APwAyu0/s320/CA1E0424-3BF0-4204-910A-10A6F3A6E605.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So I started wearing this Mother's Day bangle every day (along with the two-toned "Opposites Attract" ring I now wear as my wedding ring). The bangle is engraved with a very simple message: "You are so loved." I'm trying to take this in. Trying to absorb it. Trying to let it become part of my reality.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKBXiv5hjUPy_bM5UOFtAkIe-wHbWnE1H6GzoUX909C2GZLKk15z93Ah6vVRrE46BpUSaCl9epBp-D4Ln35oVf-C5orZkuHxkhw3aAx866G538ifaY9eu95SxJr6b-UxS4vfNoEtfccJo/s1600/39556DAF-7D96-4A10-BEEC-0CA31D75239E.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1057" data-original-width="1600" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKBXiv5hjUPy_bM5UOFtAkIe-wHbWnE1H6GzoUX909C2GZLKk15z93Ah6vVRrE46BpUSaCl9epBp-D4Ln35oVf-C5orZkuHxkhw3aAx866G538ifaY9eu95SxJr6b-UxS4vfNoEtfccJo/s320/39556DAF-7D96-4A10-BEEC-0CA31D75239E.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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On my 54th birthday, on November 1, my husband gave me this Pandora Rose Essence charm. It was to remind me of this time, this occurrence, when I finally realized that my family loves me. Apparently that is how it's supposed to work in normal, happy and healthy families. Even if we're not related to someone, it is our love for each other that makes us a family. Like the charm says "Love Makes a Family."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUHn0rzIH9iyLX93y5wvSNKBB2cgKxFwOvQojiwfF_77UaVSEZmQYDqOvijorPGjfD84sfALt6tUnB4ER-0mpBt5pnkkpuQq3GauEKUWmvLTAHn1StwLi_2sG-jgKUUBj14L3-RvdSAg/s1600/IMG_5392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUHn0rzIH9iyLX93y5wvSNKBB2cgKxFwOvQojiwfF_77UaVSEZmQYDqOvijorPGjfD84sfALt6tUnB4ER-0mpBt5pnkkpuQq3GauEKUWmvLTAHn1StwLi_2sG-jgKUUBj14L3-RvdSAg/s400/IMG_5392.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now, if you're wondering what people, events and circumstances led me to believe that I was unlovable, you'll have to wait. It's going to take a little more pondering before I write that story.<br />
<br />
I watched this video recently. It's about a guy who jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge - and survived. He talks about the mental health challenges he was experiencing at the time. And this one statement really spoke to me:<br />
<br />
<em>"I thought I was a burden to everyone who loved me. Because that's what my brain told me, because that's how powerful your brain is."</em><br />
<br />
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<br />
I hope I'm like those kids who never go back to believing in Santa. I hope I never go back to believing that I'm a burden to my family, or that I am unlovable. But depression is an illness and the brain is a powerful thing. My brain might try to tell me that nobody loves me. But now I have the tools to battle this, I have these stories on my blog, and I have this charm to remind me that I am not alone and I am loved.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjXEJjP3WYYI4uqAT4q2mhDp3b2FAQ1Tcqe0HOZdym9kB4f1eb915I04BJk6N2wJS476G1qu6fz708OLJmw3sP-Z0Sq8vB7W0eenZ3pyzxXtI1HKUsXwKmzHz4yyWnyycHvBZ5NQS1ec8/s1600/403673CB-ADE3-4C7E-8D8D-BC937624496B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjXEJjP3WYYI4uqAT4q2mhDp3b2FAQ1Tcqe0HOZdym9kB4f1eb915I04BJk6N2wJS476G1qu6fz708OLJmw3sP-Z0Sq8vB7W0eenZ3pyzxXtI1HKUsXwKmzHz4yyWnyycHvBZ5NQS1ec8/s320/403673CB-ADE3-4C7E-8D8D-BC937624496B.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Essence charms from the top: Dignity, Happiness, Happiness<br />
and "Love makes a family"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<strong><em>My Thoughts on the Essence "Love makes a family":</em></strong><br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
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I have collected Pandora Essence charms since they first came out and I love the different traits they portray - courage, belief, compassion etc. but I do wish that Pandora would stop repeating the same values and would consider adding new qualities like acceptance, commitment, inspiration... I could go on. Having a phrase rather than one word engraved was a departure for Pandora. But I really like how shiny the charm is, I like the design, and of course I like the message.<br />
<br />
As much as I like the Pandora Rose and the few gold charms I have, I find it hard to see the patterns on the charms; it's more visible on silver charms when there's oxidation. So I thought of another way to show you the charming pattern on the Pandora Rose "Love Makes a Family" bead. I rolled it in Play-Doh. <br />
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You can see that it is a pattern of trunks, branches and leaves - but I think there's also roots on there. It reminds me of this quote: "Like branches on a tree, we all grow in different directions, but our roots keep us all together." That seems an appropriate affirmation as my kids complete university admission forms and prepare to leave home next fall. Not only does love make us a family but love will keep us together. I feel a song coming on...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdU5gRDijHYLIOKAHdChHFziRXFLYicl48lW3ZyfjXLh0fV5rCcOUB13UGYJfCqTAPJWhyq98HmEuLm7oHjsiAi6foox4GhleYTWb4HWhGrC1uGeA0ZiIzMCsqqlhREDN33lPqibPck1I/s1600/39A5191B-C8ED-4D82-AB52-C1151B4941E1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="370" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdU5gRDijHYLIOKAHdChHFziRXFLYicl48lW3ZyfjXLh0fV5rCcOUB13UGYJfCqTAPJWhyq98HmEuLm7oHjsiAi6foox4GhleYTWb4HWhGrC1uGeA0ZiIzMCsqqlhREDN33lPqibPck1I/s320/39A5191B-C8ED-4D82-AB52-C1151B4941E1.jpeg" width="300" /></a></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHA5Ju2XCawaNVZ1MWUgYz-jVx0ojxm072d85SODSEBmUdx13jjQ5Dyl2ZEEbrqloxj6OcrjcAnjwiJPYS1sPNIi987dZlRk-J7Fpf3vhMLZ2_oSoTwDwwilxlCrhDvUKb8BO8T9JW284/s1600/4E35408D-4BDA-4B3E-802A-8F6F9FCD37CA.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHA5Ju2XCawaNVZ1MWUgYz-jVx0ojxm072d85SODSEBmUdx13jjQ5Dyl2ZEEbrqloxj6OcrjcAnjwiJPYS1sPNIi987dZlRk-J7Fpf3vhMLZ2_oSoTwDwwilxlCrhDvUKb8BO8T9JW284/s320/4E35408D-4BDA-4B3E-802A-8F6F9FCD37CA.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Pandora Rose Essence bracelet, my bangle with the Rose clasp, and my<br />
soft pink Luminous Rose bracelet with pearls, mother of pearl and moonstone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h4>
Related Posts:</h4>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/11/when-your-brain-and-body-scream-911.html"><span style="color: #213abb;">When your brain and body scream 911</span></a> - a story about my introduction to the idea of "wise mind" and the "threat system," and the reason for intense emotions. You'll also see an overview of the types of therapy that have made a huge difference for my mental health and the charm that represents my asking for help.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/11/will-he-always-love-me.html"><span style="color: #213abb;">Will he always love me? My explanation of panic attacks</span></a> - a story about the origins of schema-focused therapy. A rather long post but my explanation of panic attacks and the charm that helps.<br />
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/11/two-birthdays-and-three-babies-that.html">Two birthdays and three babies that narrowly escaped being born on Halloween</a> - my own birth story and a story about choosing the birthday of our twins and the charm that represents it.<br />
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/09/do-i-really-deserve-to-be-happy-and.html">Do I really deserve to be happy and healthy?</a> - a story about feeling undeserving and unworthy and my first steps to changing that and a charm to help remind me.<br />
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.com/2014/07/moving-from-self-criticism-to-self.html">Moving from self criticism to self acceptance</a> - a story about accepting ourselves at every stage in our development and the simple silver charm that represents it.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-66730280432643011232018-04-09T23:15:00.001-04:002018-04-09T23:16:20.845-04:00Dreaming of summer, charms that is<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJqStjxuOlfyDgGJ0m87ynKFPSjdxb1qAGacCu7TpPJ_hCg1NMJRzoUgyZyzWdAc6OjS_h8H2si4bbi0HktDRgmgBVrSM37U3Nh6V9rdwbMDHzEzLrqGRU3OrtSY-fKKi-ec7w-4QzpY/s1600/IMG_6937.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="1600" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJqStjxuOlfyDgGJ0m87ynKFPSjdxb1qAGacCu7TpPJ_hCg1NMJRzoUgyZyzWdAc6OjS_h8H2si4bbi0HktDRgmgBVrSM37U3Nh6V9rdwbMDHzEzLrqGRU3OrtSY-fKKi-ec7w-4QzpY/s400/IMG_6937.jpeg" width="400" /></a>Pandora has come out with some great new designs for the summer, a departure from the usual nautical and beach themes. It's been a while since I've been this excited about new releases from Pandora.<br />
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I usually share stories about the charms I've earned but I've never shared the process of how I decide which charms to buy, and more importantly the ones I want to earn. I've been getting lots of requests on Instagram for photos of the Summer Collection so I thought I would collect them all in one place.<br />
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These items are not on the Pandora website because they will not be released until June. And these are not the best quality photos because they were taken with my phone from the most recent Pandora catalogues, and are not Pandora stock photos.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqqUd5TCBUYEjlTLHvN-hqY_IfSRBqqlPMeRG7UUo_grZPvUg3bWAgWGEZAeNtBp0FkUtVJhJNJwrpHLPDLDaXK416DsiNAvWt1pDaXqFBPN7INsRrWDRkh5o38fsJ92ybBEzTgMqT5Y/s1600/image_6483441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqqUd5TCBUYEjlTLHvN-hqY_IfSRBqqlPMeRG7UUo_grZPvUg3bWAgWGEZAeNtBp0FkUtVJhJNJwrpHLPDLDaXK416DsiNAvWt1pDaXqFBPN7INsRrWDRkh5o38fsJ92ybBEzTgMqT5Y/s320/image_6483441.JPG" width="273" /></a></div>
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After the response to this Instagram post (above) I realized I am lucky that there are three concept stores in my city - and I'm always quick to grab the new catalogues. There are always two catalogues, a small one that contains just charms and bracelets and a large catalogue that includes the Essence line as well as rings, earrings, and necklaces. So read on to see what's coming soon.<br />
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First up there is a new style of leather bracelet. They are double bracelets with a loop and button closure. The end with the button is removable, similar to the closures on the hinged bracelets and the sliding bracelets. I particularly like the stitching details on these bracelets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnMsEkTH6thlXaJgLjjs5O7_mHR96895voIpzYSzBgnN_-Ctg2zIgJCAdMVJcnISseWbLPGoSoIfQ4Xx5sDr4LR_BAg2uyGVwAH9GDB2CmlBCmiBBVDkgzvzTid7BbtzGmV2_fkUm5CH8/s1600/IMG_6889.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1443" data-original-width="1600" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnMsEkTH6thlXaJgLjjs5O7_mHR96895voIpzYSzBgnN_-Ctg2zIgJCAdMVJcnISseWbLPGoSoIfQ4Xx5sDr4LR_BAg2uyGVwAH9GDB2CmlBCmiBBVDkgzvzTid7BbtzGmV2_fkUm5CH8/s320/IMG_6889.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Like all leather bracelets you would have to limit the number of charms. I don't like it when all the charms rotate and dangle under my wrist so I usually have just one or two charms - or a dangle - on my leather bracelets.<br />
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I have leather bracelets to go with almost all my Moments bracelets except for this two-tone bracelet with the lighter colour carved ("flower") wood muranos. So the "Golden Tan" leather is definitely on my wishlist. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7WhFgA9b6jePvDPdmaAikCDr3Gh19sH-CaSWdfVAL-50l39UsiClFlEXef8tmIkw3xs5suQSySSNw0bqdKHYCI7d0-kVsd7Q4EeE465BCplBwO0LPnxgZMDcvkkXZ4JYpbjcJtyxgWk8/s1600/IMG_8415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7WhFgA9b6jePvDPdmaAikCDr3Gh19sH-CaSWdfVAL-50l39UsiClFlEXef8tmIkw3xs5suQSySSNw0bqdKHYCI7d0-kVsd7Q4EeE465BCplBwO0LPnxgZMDcvkkXZ4JYpbjcJtyxgWk8/s320/IMG_8415.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm very curious to see the Spicy Orange. I love orange but this may not be the right colour to pair with my orange <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/search/label/Love%20Blooms%20Here%20bracelet">Love Blooms Here</a> bracelet. I showed my husband these bracelets in the catalogue and said I liked the turquoise one. He said, "Don't you already have a turquoise one?" Silly husband. Wouldn't you say my triple smooth leather is more teal than turquoise?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6cna_g3PJ8nntrXye_AJoDx5l70AdbZMACRSvBln6e24VnVVIPRPlIHUHiTdDXUVGOi-JLagkzZMShNC2K0D6irtwcC_ez-zFYpF2GBynmS4sa0Tcgv0X5vLkitXxku0N_LmEAE-IuNE/s1600/IMG_3903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6cna_g3PJ8nntrXye_AJoDx5l70AdbZMACRSvBln6e24VnVVIPRPlIHUHiTdDXUVGOi-JLagkzZMShNC2K0D6irtwcC_ez-zFYpF2GBynmS4sa0Tcgv0X5vLkitXxku0N_LmEAE-IuNE/s320/IMG_3903.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are also leather bracelets with the sliding closure, in both tan and black. I haven't purchased the sliding bracelets but they seem quite popular and certainly look less bulky than the double leathers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknigLWrskxgyPwZrOMeTWsfpg1etqShC2zRDlP0iMb5MGKF5wsnzNWFPBV89rqHwtBLoEO5qvQf-SKe2C4NyZyKq5_w2R8fJJuboNLSz8CDLN-8CD12dF8rZzXopEX7Y1gWAsJnuEOy8/s1600/IMG_6940.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="1600" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknigLWrskxgyPwZrOMeTWsfpg1etqShC2zRDlP0iMb5MGKF5wsnzNWFPBV89rqHwtBLoEO5qvQf-SKe2C4NyZyKq5_w2R8fJJuboNLSz8CDLN-8CD12dF8rZzXopEX7Y1gWAsJnuEOy8/s400/IMG_6940.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pandora started creating chokers a few years ago and came out with a new silver one in the Spring Collection, a honeycomb one in the Shine Collection, and now there will be leather ones in the Summer Collection. These appear to come with the feather dangle. The sliding closure necklaces and bracelets are all one-size-fits-all.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJqvPh9JvUhUc_pRAu2KbGEDgL2_SYrmDX6Fzu-0ywulePrr6HY3xsd-w4w9KiIe1C0ZuzJmeIDXwPBJ8GF6VtdSWCxT-W3dXQcOnuk76vI8-emCJvea32B_Irx_Y_T9U5mYsuzGCC08/s1600/IMG_6868.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="942" data-original-width="1600" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJqvPh9JvUhUc_pRAu2KbGEDgL2_SYrmDX6Fzu-0ywulePrr6HY3xsd-w4w9KiIe1C0ZuzJmeIDXwPBJ8GF6VtdSWCxT-W3dXQcOnuk76vI8-emCJvea32B_Irx_Y_T9U5mYsuzGCC08/s400/IMG_6868.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My favourite thing about the new collection is the spiritual theme. Included is the "Spiritual Feather" pendant, the "Amulet" (although I have no idea what they are actually supposed to be), and the "Spiritual Dreamcatcher." Just as I researched the Native American Hopi tribe to assign the meaning of the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2017/02/how-hopi-helps-with-housework.html">Hopi</a> charm (now retired), I will use these "spiritual" aboriginal charms as incentive to learn more about the spiritual practices of our local First Nations. I think this summer we will do some exploring, see some historical sites, and go to a Pow-Wow. Then I can set some specific goals to "earn" some of these charms, or they will represent some of these activities we do as a family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdEXB2njZ-2iZww_HFz-Jdb4_9kGpHYVXKVV6a2o0Jcitacq0zFjocrZuzeQByOJbtSy9i7_TXS3r78ku-S3STmBsbHyjFUHEzaC5JCjfL-3qe_y21E5aHC3kQnFTBetSuDBW5b9Wuiio/s1600/IMG_6871.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdEXB2njZ-2iZww_HFz-Jdb4_9kGpHYVXKVV6a2o0Jcitacq0zFjocrZuzeQByOJbtSy9i7_TXS3r78ku-S3STmBsbHyjFUHEzaC5JCjfL-3qe_y21E5aHC3kQnFTBetSuDBW5b9Wuiio/s320/IMG_6871.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtjCKZvNS4zAZk1q63f2cIeyx56dgUdWNNG1IZu_uwKleFjnM2yvAagTr6LWfGBDybYOXxVo7LKBV1PuFKw_6uhmx5nHi7yezzmcZG_G_R8zo3Z2Q8ZzzPEePZzdsQqG5dqXNI1BLl9ck/s1600/IMG_6917.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1182" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtjCKZvNS4zAZk1q63f2cIeyx56dgUdWNNG1IZu_uwKleFjnM2yvAagTr6LWfGBDybYOXxVo7LKBV1PuFKw_6uhmx5nHi7yezzmcZG_G_R8zo3Z2Q8ZzzPEePZzdsQqG5dqXNI1BLl9ck/s320/IMG_6917.jpeg" width="236" /></a></div>
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If you are not familiar with a dreamcatcher the meaning is very special. Dreamcatchers are meant to protect children when they sleep. One legend tells the story of a chief whose child becomes sick with a fever that causes him terrible nightmares. A medicine woman makes a dreamcatcher by copying the pattern of a spider web. Instead of catching flies, the dreamcatcher will catch bad dreams. When nightmares came for the child, they were caught in the strands of sinew. But good dreams were able to pass through the web and follow the feathers down to the child. In the morning, the sun would hit the dream catcher and burn away the bad dreams (from CBC Kids). I think this charm might be used to help me work on getting a good night's sleep.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUzFn1oyEC_grc6MRtP3A-pGbUhbj3Beogb6v2-sjxblNseX90lrWukrumgPYFVKAnkyakX88LBbV2qixbPCC6-gM046T2jUvgRYMaEi6XlPsj0pWax35J9BrRyXDym_kcstXrBJjPz9s/s1600/IMG_6887.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1211" data-original-width="1600" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUzFn1oyEC_grc6MRtP3A-pGbUhbj3Beogb6v2-sjxblNseX90lrWukrumgPYFVKAnkyakX88LBbV2qixbPCC6-gM046T2jUvgRYMaEi6XlPsj0pWax35J9BrRyXDym_kcstXrBJjPz9s/s320/IMG_6887.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Although many First Nations people make dreamcatchers now, they originated with the Ojibwa. According to the Ojibwa story, a mystical and maternal "Spider Woman" served as the spiritual protector for the tribe, especially for young children and babies. As the Ojibwe people continued to grow and spread out across the land, the Spider Woman found it difficult to continue to protect and watch over all the members of the tribe as they migrated farther and farther away. This is why she created the first dreamcatcher. Following her example, mothers and grandmothers would recreate the maternal keepsake as a means of mystically protecting their children and families from afar. I think this is just lovely and the charm could be given to a new mother to protect her infant, or someone whose children will leave home soon - like me!<br />
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There are earrings named "Spiritual Feathers" as well and I like the heart-shaped dangles in a turquoise enamel. There are a lot of different meanings associated with feathers, from angels wings to what it means when you find a feather. I am particularly interested in learning more about the spiritual aspects of feathers for smudging. Dancing to Eagle Spirit Society has more information about <a href="http://www.dancingtoeaglespiritsociety.org/medicines.php">smudging</a>. Their site also has more explanations about dreamcatchers if you are interested.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuopni3_vzDyjgr4-NbFobEbg-zfoJ58IA8x8-BOJd1B8bP3pzgo9G0mQxdDut2d85Z96Py03xfRkziIM9-3AmBOK3HolT9FlWm7DqElz6kLkSMeja7dbRlfE8H8ThNSRhhKMC7ygt8Lw/s1600/IMG_6864.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1088" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuopni3_vzDyjgr4-NbFobEbg-zfoJ58IA8x8-BOJd1B8bP3pzgo9G0mQxdDut2d85Z96Py03xfRkziIM9-3AmBOK3HolT9FlWm7DqElz6kLkSMeja7dbRlfE8H8ThNSRhhKMC7ygt8Lw/s320/IMG_6864.jpeg" width="217" /></a></div>
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I've never worn a "cuff" earring so I'm excited to try these. I have a feeling my kids will tell me I'm not cool enough to wear them. They will come in both silver and Pandora Rose, and there will be one in the Shine collection as well. Best part is the low price point.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsF9HLJTeriKAIWQ268IlqIJRszTfB0UI5yhm4z6zb0JC4P9h_bbpqTLLEhslP0nZsxqEv-YEcQhhIPyNbDakquMIFMJrzrgAS4QTankLhvlYLiOP0uFssXNs1ESbrIg_7TWTIxUZQ5cs/s1600/IMG_6866.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="1600" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsF9HLJTeriKAIWQ268IlqIJRszTfB0UI5yhm4z6zb0JC4P9h_bbpqTLLEhslP0nZsxqEv-YEcQhhIPyNbDakquMIFMJrzrgAS4QTankLhvlYLiOP0uFssXNs1ESbrIg_7TWTIxUZQ5cs/s320/IMG_6866.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qQ88UknnuM6CruEhVKNLjnmidh97JTpHuyGZz93-G7NhlKlCo0RdNs8z4xhr55sBneeHvnzsSR8SVPklHHh_UkU6_sQUPNdw5F4ReJggr6kRHumcePGuCt6e9JHY28GLyx5URkHk4rk/s1600/IMG_6885.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1459" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qQ88UknnuM6CruEhVKNLjnmidh97JTpHuyGZz93-G7NhlKlCo0RdNs8z4xhr55sBneeHvnzsSR8SVPklHHh_UkU6_sQUPNdw5F4ReJggr6kRHumcePGuCt6e9JHY28GLyx5URkHk4rk/s320/IMG_6885.jpeg" width="291" /></a></div>
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Pandora is trying a new ring concept, a chain ring; although I know Tiffany has rings in this style. I am curious to try them on. I'm wondering if they will be more comfortable than a solid band. Of course one of the rings has my fav turquoise colour.<br />
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And finally there are two new rings named "Vibrant Spirit," and I particularly like the turquoise colour even though the stone has the unusual label of "scuba blue crystal." It looks like it's a bit more of a statement ring than the turquoise birthstone ring, which has been on my wishlist <em>forever</em>.<br />
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Another new trend in rings is having something dangling from them. The dangles on this ring are meant to be "Spiritual Symbols" - an anchor, a feather and (although it's hard to tell in the photo) a shell. The smooth heart on the top could be easily engraved with an initial - or a date for a birthday, wedding, anniversary or childbirth.</div>
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Pandora has produced a number of different anchor designs over the years. They are popular among the Navy moms, but also suit nautical or beach themed bracelets. This one is engraved with "Anchor Yourself to Someone Special," which significantly limits its use. I like the idea of an anchor representing steadfastness in a relationship but it can also represent faith. Unfortunately the wording here makes love sound like it's a ball and chain, in my opinion.</div>
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Although this is not really an aboriginal thing I think this compass charm is supposed to be part of this spiritual theme. I love the "Compass Rose" with that same blue crystal. If you are not familiar with a "compass rose" it is the design you will see on a magnetic compass, a map, or a nautical chart depicting the compass points. Lots of meaning can be assigned to this charm. It is engraved with "follow your dreams" and can be used to represent charting your own path in life, whether you navigate by the stars, listen to your heart, or choose the path less travelled.</div>
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Continuing with the turquoise theme there is a silicone clip called Arcs of Love. It is a heart shape but I don't think that will be too obvious when it sits on your bracelet sideways. This looks like it will be very similar to the Essence Wisdom bead (below) which is labeled "turquoise-colored crystal." I'll be stacking my Essence with this.</div>
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I like lots of bracelets in my stacks. Here you can see my turquoise <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/02/i-love-mii.html">Mii homemade bracelet</a> and a two-tone bangle with the two gold charms I won from Pandora (you can read my stories about the Eiffel Tower <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/search/label/Forever%20Paris">Forever Paris</a> charm). In this stack is also the snowflake bangle, my Essence, and my <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/search/label/Lucerne%20Recovery%20bracelet">Lucerne Recovery bracelet</a>. I'm thinking that the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/01/sometimes-you-just-buy-charm-because.html">teal studded lights</a> on the leather will work with some of the new charms from the Summer Collection.</div>
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To round off the theme there are new faceted hearts in colours we haven't seen before: orange and turquoise. And then there's something completely unexpected: tassels. I have seen surprising interest in these and some people see the relation to Chinese tassels. From a practical point of view, my worry is they will get dirty or, as a friend said, will get in her tea.</div>
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There are a few pieces that are coming out in the Summer Collection that do not appear to relate to the spiritual theme although aboriginals do use feather fans in smudging. These could also represent the rising or setting sun. Some people have used fans on Asian or Chinese New Year theme bracelets. But these charms are called "Fan of Love." I'm not sure if that's a play-on-words, 'cause I am a "fan" of love, but I'm not a "fan" of these. I get tired of the heart charms although these are quite simple with not too much cz. There will be pendants/dangles in silver and Pandora Rose, and heart-shaped charms in silver as well as an addition to Pandora's new Shine Collection.</div>
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The other pieces that are coming out in the Summer Collection are more novelty charms. First up is the skateboard dangle which looks like it has cubic zirconia around the edge of the board. The surface of the board itself seems to be textured. </div>
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Everybody loves popcorn but the pink enamel will limit where this charm is used. And somehow pearls seem out of place in popcorn. Regardless, it will likely be a good gift item.<br />
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This "Drink to Go" will likely be popular as lots of ladies (and guys) like to represent their love of tea or coffee on their bracelets. And it's a little more subtle than the popcorn.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdpL-_59D-2fQeOlsZUEJoIbLcdQd5zEVRbZQorF1vaZS9RTCFJgcrxRNwUntf_rG_9HUhOu0e9HyaDYo2ocMzZUYlYibdrCIzeBr1C7_NDoVOowf0kt_G8vEERwgzMmHbg9FXEvD7DU/s1600/IMG_6907.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1054" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdpL-_59D-2fQeOlsZUEJoIbLcdQd5zEVRbZQorF1vaZS9RTCFJgcrxRNwUntf_rG_9HUhOu0e9HyaDYo2ocMzZUYlYibdrCIzeBr1C7_NDoVOowf0kt_G8vEERwgzMmHbg9FXEvD7DU/s320/IMG_6907.jpeg" width="210" /></a></div>
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And finally, the ultimate in novelty, the "Burger and Fries." I can't see this fitting in on any of my bracelets but the biggest complaint I've heard is that some ladies don't like cheese on their burgers. Hard to please everybody!<br />
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Carrying on with the emoji trend, joining the kiss emoji for Valentine's Day, and the playful wink in the Spring release, we now have a "Stay Cool" charm and the "Symbol of Peace." Clearly directed at a younger market than this mom of teenagers whose most frequently received emoji is the eyes rolling.<br />
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We will see a new Canadian charm, this one titled "Love Canada." It has red enamel for the leaf but it may be quite a subtle colour. Underneath the enamel it looks like there are details to make it resemble the veining on a real leaf. The dangle heart is cute, with "Canada" engraved on it, but I think I prefer some of the other <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2018/03/red-mittens-to-warm-your-heart-and-your.html">Canada charms</a> I reviewed lately. I don't know if this will be widely available or another charm exclusive to Canada.</div>
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I think this last charm depicting a Ferris Wheel will be quite popular. Some folks are saying that they don't see this charm in catalogues from other countries, including the US. Where this will be released is still a mystery but we will have it in Canada, in June. Which charms will you be dreaming of?</div>
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Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-84363149402105972702018-03-19T19:39:00.000-04:002018-03-19T19:42:21.143-04:00Red mittens to warm your heart - and your handsThis red mitten charm represents something very special that I have discovered, and it's helping with my depression - helping me "beat the winter blues." I will start by sharing with you the story behind the accidental phenomenon of the red mitten that has raised millions of dollars for Canadian Olympic athletes. And I'll finish with a review of the red mitten charm. I'm excited to show you how I've styled it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQtizdPcOZXDPg4IZsq5Pe8WPlcPojN22ckCX6GRJ70QHL85v_UeNy5KvEyh0dYFRb27_KL0KXLRgQCiYwBSfHlAiBmGE7hV_M0KabsUUOZaU2ec9rXYZ8lG89hrqSUk46No9DYN63Ns/s1600/IMG-6021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQtizdPcOZXDPg4IZsq5Pe8WPlcPojN22ckCX6GRJ70QHL85v_UeNy5KvEyh0dYFRb27_KL0KXLRgQCiYwBSfHlAiBmGE7hV_M0KabsUUOZaU2ec9rXYZ8lG89hrqSUk46No9DYN63Ns/s320/IMG-6021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
In preparation for the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, on the west coast of Canada, the Vancouver Olympic Committee (VANOC) tasked the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) with designing the torchbearers' uniforms, requesting that they be white with sky blue and sea green accents, presumably because the City of Vancouver sits between the Pacific Ocean and the Canadian Rockies.<br />
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According to a story in the Toronto Star, Jeff Sherman, the president and CEO of Hudson's Bay, suggested "it needed something a little extra, something a little more distinctly Canadian, something that would give it a little pop of colour." HBC designers and VANOC came up with red mittens, with the Olympic rings stitched on the back and a white maple leaf sewn into the palm - perfect for cheering and waving. Sherman, a New Yorker, declared, "They're Canadian. They're so Canadian."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgLmuA_LFuUF4bnwoLaGGv8UQqIlV12CrMRB26s4FYQm0ePuCwExzGads0BuFGYqTwqW49NEqryUogMSGGhb9gF7apAVHJ6PCK4y8LqI_CWONdS4nDnl4WJlsrBpw-O1XZVAqdf3WbH8/s1600/tree.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgLmuA_LFuUF4bnwoLaGGv8UQqIlV12CrMRB26s4FYQm0ePuCwExzGads0BuFGYqTwqW49NEqryUogMSGGhb9gF7apAVHJ6PCK4y8LqI_CWONdS4nDnl4WJlsrBpw-O1XZVAqdf3WbH8/s320/tree.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Of course anyone in Canada whose mother - or grandmother - can knit had handmade red mittens when they were a kid, with a string through the sleeves of their snowsuit - so they wouldn't lose their mittens. I'm sure that string would be outlawed in schoolyards nowadays. Ironically, someone <em>did</em> lose their red mitts - left at our house last weekend. So I thought I'd use them in a photo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdxPbx3_OGEGi8o27nO66hyeIx9slR01TikEBSvkVY6UfuQodgPxme_o_6fJwbiQthc79X1A3QluLuJpiQEVNAuDMRu7e37knZhQTe-PWDBFwJqPWoqcOn0XzUeAVnFleoP3GhqOn-Tc/s1600/IMG-6347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdxPbx3_OGEGi8o27nO66hyeIx9slR01TikEBSvkVY6UfuQodgPxme_o_6fJwbiQthc79X1A3QluLuJpiQEVNAuDMRu7e37knZhQTe-PWDBFwJqPWoqcOn0XzUeAVnFleoP3GhqOn-Tc/s320/IMG-6347.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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When the torchbearers' uniforms were unveiled the red mittens were an instant hit with the media, which I find amusing since they didn't really match the blue wavy lines and green accents!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nPqDmZ5CGSnPg_BIzkgrqMd4CTtebR5uXuvURGJ1RlxzWKZmrEK8aIx7NGjXfkkMJEPOJbH_aaSKAZnB4R43kK8YBwsASSGu5Z6ws2xuKzMfhMovNqoIQ9jyPVRLIxi7ZuUmXoKZoHM/s1600/IMG_5924.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="267" data-original-width="400" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nPqDmZ5CGSnPg_BIzkgrqMd4CTtebR5uXuvURGJ1RlxzWKZmrEK8aIx7NGjXfkkMJEPOJbH_aaSKAZnB4R43kK8YBwsASSGu5Z6ws2xuKzMfhMovNqoIQ9jyPVRLIxi7ZuUmXoKZoHM/s320/IMG_5924.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the red mittens part of the torchbearers' uniforms</td></tr>
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Although they were not allowed to sell the uniforms of the torchbearers, HBC and VANOC decided the mitts alone could be offered for sale - and sell they did! When those mittens hit the shelves in October 2009, the first distribution was 300,000 pairs of mitts. They lasted a <em>week</em>! When a stock of 3 million arrived in stores, 2 million sold before the Olympics even began that February. All net proceeds would go to benefit Canada's Olympic athletes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfGrQRzEXiQI-wKOvEq2uTR4E3hUiEMDKsf2plvqvEqrJiI-vCbveH5MCWdQ52vRwHhuP4P0W0A7pTULE4NmY3k6Nr17bJq-YEAvGTQt-jnwbQC4KY_-19ZBu_dvwblIFU3BoaJuguBE/s1600/IMG-5926+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="460" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfGrQRzEXiQI-wKOvEq2uTR4E3hUiEMDKsf2plvqvEqrJiI-vCbveH5MCWdQ52vRwHhuP4P0W0A7pTULE4NmY3k6Nr17bJq-YEAvGTQt-jnwbQC4KY_-19ZBu_dvwblIFU3BoaJuguBE/s320/IMG-5926+-+Copy.JPG" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne Gretsky<br />
Canadian Hockey Legend<br />
Winter Olympics Nagano 1998<br />
Director of Canada's Olympic hockey team 2002</td></tr>
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The red mitten sales were boosted by the fact that Canadians would see the red mittens every night on the evening news, as a relay of 12,000 torchbearers carried the Olympic torch across the country, visiting over 1000 communities over a period of 106 days, all waving their red mittens with the white maple leaf. As the Olympic torch travelled its 45,000 km journey, the Olympic fever spread, and as it got closer and closer to the west coast the red mitten frenzy grew too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4cExVdkGit_UjQfdY0ihfz8IZwRhL-eMNkLradvF4HfcBgEEUuK9ionhLfJeBRzd_DtKqJk1QYmz9rg38rA3_RmH5QGj76-sUPiGBcbbIB80IucQQikjz4jVknMayHPICelMYXnwCJMQ/s1600/IMG_5932+-+Copy.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="548" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4cExVdkGit_UjQfdY0ihfz8IZwRhL-eMNkLradvF4HfcBgEEUuK9ionhLfJeBRzd_DtKqJk1QYmz9rg38rA3_RmH5QGj76-sUPiGBcbbIB80IucQQikjz4jVknMayHPICelMYXnwCJMQ/s320/IMG_5932+-+Copy.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheryl Pounder<br />
Women's hockey gold medal<br />
Winter Olympics Salt Lake City 2002</td></tr>
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Red mittens became a media sensation. Retailers couldn't keep up with the demand. Everybody wanted the red mittens.<br />
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Members of Parliament showed their Olympic spirit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0AvdqDEUnx-aSWuUap-ka7QIZwmUb14CgLfDgHLfpCpD7xONKiAThtYeFriKMFVWUBPSV4FILDqX4d9lqYUZu6FkE4XJAavUO8zfOVzQtR-KwEdqF_U7Rr_iYgHZ5G4TfGeH2SP1zdY/s1600/IMG-5912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="989" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0AvdqDEUnx-aSWuUap-ka7QIZwmUb14CgLfDgHLfpCpD7xONKiAThtYeFriKMFVWUBPSV4FILDqX4d9lqYUZu6FkE4XJAavUO8zfOVzQtR-KwEdqF_U7Rr_iYgHZ5G4TfGeH2SP1zdY/s320/IMG-5912.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Prince of Wales modelled a pair.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WtsleauRzVF2tUZ_b2Np_Z8FzwlIiWgSExL9G1ynmEGgsJynN249w7xcUO7ML1xhq01227eb_NnQ9265osQ6bUtD6QFoLl7ZOUM0skOTMi1zNKSOoaZvb5PGSdSBm1fFXiBlqs9K3Jg/s1600/Prince.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="620" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WtsleauRzVF2tUZ_b2Np_Z8FzwlIiWgSExL9G1ynmEGgsJynN249w7xcUO7ML1xhq01227eb_NnQ9265osQ6bUtD6QFoLl7ZOUM0skOTMi1zNKSOoaZvb5PGSdSBm1fFXiBlqs9K3Jg/s320/Prince.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Even Oprah got in on the action. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0BLVObpTc1jMb6IrEXRrT58CZNraDjeDpzi5Lj1Gqm0wIGnwyC2PzgYjQO9JSGCsqdR_mpWmj_Wj7mFwxt32Xi4QF7zPmmbeZPjyweQQvi5heJaIAko4KZE4ztK6zBKyTczrazSyMfI/s1600/oprah.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="208" data-original-width="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0BLVObpTc1jMb6IrEXRrT58CZNraDjeDpzi5Lj1Gqm0wIGnwyC2PzgYjQO9JSGCsqdR_mpWmj_Wj7mFwxt32Xi4QF7zPmmbeZPjyweQQvi5heJaIAko4KZE4ztK6zBKyTczrazSyMfI/s1600/oprah.png" /></a></div>
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According to Time magazine, as the Today Show broadcast from the Vancouver Games telling Oprah how hard it was to find a pair of red mittens, Oprah waved back wearing her very own red mittens (with her personalized Ralph Lauren USA Olympic team jersey.) And as Oprah has been known to do, she proclaimed, "Not only do<em> I</em> have the mittens, but everyone in the studio audience is getting a pair!" And little elves carried in a batch of more than 300 pairs of the coveted red mittens.<br />
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HBC eventually sold 3.5 <em>million</em> pairs of these original red mittens from the 2010 Olympics, raising over $14 <em>million</em> for the Canadian Olympic Foundation. Thus began a new Canadian tradition of annual red winter mittens.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhgcU0pphuvzYgxTGVwTbkMclyHZ1PxscSURA_ucgph3o9U81XSFPD1P-NqjllbMh0Q_Qghrwd8N3Qv7xdl-3rHbw4OBG0k9KcA-Fnm_qtRXXnTvMRxMHLdt68dCu4MYCtsV_JbAKQh0/s1600/HBC.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="637" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhgcU0pphuvzYgxTGVwTbkMclyHZ1PxscSURA_ucgph3o9U81XSFPD1P-NqjllbMh0Q_Qghrwd8N3Qv7xdl-3rHbw4OBG0k9KcA-Fnm_qtRXXnTvMRxMHLdt68dCu4MYCtsV_JbAKQh0/s320/HBC.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from Hudson's Bay Company on Instagram</td></tr>
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With such enthusiastic response, the Canadian Olympic Committee and the Hudson's Bay Company decided to re-launch the red mittens for the Winter of 2011. And they have done so each year since.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhqX1ylfOnyy70aIoj8A1RZn6DFellQYhecj5aLWKjxYno5F1gy2b6cHiw7ipwqEhtFMLs3RqOqrZJf97EyBQzBKu_GNVDGD6AUAlRuU9Ag-8OaN30-WVB_STP7sYiiL1gdwK8awiHFk/s1600/relaunch.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhqX1ylfOnyy70aIoj8A1RZn6DFellQYhecj5aLWKjxYno5F1gy2b6cHiw7ipwqEhtFMLs3RqOqrZJf97EyBQzBKu_GNVDGD6AUAlRuU9Ag-8OaN30-WVB_STP7sYiiL1gdwK8awiHFk/s320/relaunch.jpeg" width="257" /></a></div>
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In 2011 there were 1.63 million pairs of mittens sold contributing 14.9 million dollars to the Canadian Olympic Foundation. Funds raised would support programs like Own the Podium, the Canadian Olympic Committee's Athlete Excellence Fund, Olympic and Pan American Games preparation and Games missions.<br />
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For the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London the red mittens went a little retro. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4fFvP05opni0x_uuTAqk0f_i79hDE0bRMAnjLtCTTYsnkNt0DscyYe5I1S6u4MNMil_ptAweS87Bzvsb2oI9EcwNCkwHuXWu-2TkJi_lpeGSIQQhMJz4BST8fsIl08G_U7KAC8QLsgU/s1600/2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4fFvP05opni0x_uuTAqk0f_i79hDE0bRMAnjLtCTTYsnkNt0DscyYe5I1S6u4MNMil_ptAweS87Bzvsb2oI9EcwNCkwHuXWu-2TkJi_lpeGSIQQhMJz4BST8fsIl08G_U7KAC8QLsgU/s1600/2012.jpg" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyG2KUJV_dPnafad1aGaX0ocQx3Q5nAxl99RHYT5pWCB5wt7c_VgezRy4IWg1_q865YyrIOYItm9YKMS7CBS9yUUlfOF6Qdiv6b-U3cE-22fgADLr2niE80NjK-nDtVhQTYJ2stahNYME/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="1010" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyG2KUJV_dPnafad1aGaX0ocQx3Q5nAxl99RHYT5pWCB5wt7c_VgezRy4IWg1_q865YyrIOYItm9YKMS7CBS9yUUlfOF6Qdiv6b-U3cE-22fgADLr2niE80NjK-nDtVhQTYJ2stahNYME/s320/untitled.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karen Cockburn<br />
three-time medalist, trampoline<br />
London Olympics 2012</td></tr>
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For the Winter of 2013 HBC changed things up, trying a red and white candy cane stripe and red maple leaf.<br />
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The Olympic Committee ramped things up for the next Winter Olympics in Sochi 2014. These mittens with white finger tips were called "Snow Tops." Get it? Like snow-topped mountains, winter, skiing...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4obByndrccqM77O8yXuDlH0yGmQSGUx_HKDZgftWot7-_3N3Tv6hmQnod6ujeiSuGs7c0Al9Hls-1Sg4w6hCdUY6hvyV_t-upmjyFXruyAP8FRAb7EuESvdpJ0yI8nSK4yVIE8mVSpE/s1600/2014+Snow+Tops.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4obByndrccqM77O8yXuDlH0yGmQSGUx_HKDZgftWot7-_3N3Tv6hmQnod6ujeiSuGs7c0Al9Hls-1Sg4w6hCdUY6hvyV_t-upmjyFXruyAP8FRAb7EuESvdpJ0yI8nSK4yVIE8mVSpE/s320/2014+Snow+Tops.jpeg" width="264" /></a></div>
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They capitalized on the word "CAN" in Canada. As in, "Can we do it? Yes we CAN!"<br />
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And created a hashtag #MittenSpotting<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzzgI8M0BAjL1E1d2JJ_cslaXyWGvLMyvuvBsem5w57hvz39Pdu2Lpivqk4I1QRZkGIUfUP8XqrFg0WrdUWaS0WzOyykCiRiR8NN2geh_QRBybnPzmM3hdd7J5Jyz1z5v1NWJiM1dojY/s1600/mittenspotting+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="638" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzzgI8M0BAjL1E1d2JJ_cslaXyWGvLMyvuvBsem5w57hvz39Pdu2Lpivqk4I1QRZkGIUfUP8XqrFg0WrdUWaS0WzOyykCiRiR8NN2geh_QRBybnPzmM3hdd7J5Jyz1z5v1NWJiM1dojY/s320/mittenspotting+2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Red mittens returned for the winter of 2015 with the theme of "Go Canada." A press release from the Canadian Olympic Committee in September of 2014 celebrated the fact that the "Red Mitten Initiative" - as it was now being called - had raised over $26 million by then.<br />
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And to increase engagement on social media there was another new hashtag #RedMittens and people were encouraged to show where they "Go" with their #RedMittens #GoMittensGo <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsOzFgthvjWUdJHaFKvAmXdlcunhvyFkrenFtu7kX5Pvdw07UI7fAcL9BzdJtsFNtASv9T9neuCvwwbzISPzdgOChFaf3KdabL2Jw2OLq2O9xs5TQtvOlb6wJS8H7OMIBM5XJ3UNhqAx0/s1600/IMG_5868.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="639" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsOzFgthvjWUdJHaFKvAmXdlcunhvyFkrenFtu7kX5Pvdw07UI7fAcL9BzdJtsFNtASv9T9neuCvwwbzISPzdgOChFaf3KdabL2Jw2OLq2O9xs5TQtvOlb6wJS8H7OMIBM5XJ3UNhqAx0/s320/IMG_5868.jpeg" width="246" /></a></div>
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Olympians Marie-Philip Poulin, Shannon Szabadoa, and Caroline Roulette are sporting the red mittens for the winter of 2016. These Women's Hockey stars had eight gold medals between them when they posed for this photo.</div>
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With the maple leaf on the <em>back</em> of these mittens they were not as great for waving, but when you put your hands together it spells Canada, so that's cool. We still have two pair of these red mittens in use in our home.<br />
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The 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio saw a new wave of interest in red mittens. Despite the heat in Brazil, Canadian athletes were equipped with red mittens and did not disappoint. Social media was all abuzz about the Canadian athletes wearing their mittens during the closing ceremonies - at a Summer Olympics. At that time, for each pair of $12 mittens sold, 30 percent of the sale was donated to help Canadian athletes succeed.<br />
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I had a pair of these Rio red and white mittens, which my son "borrowed" to do snow shovelling, showing that white is not such a practical colour, especially for Mitchell. However, this picture conveniently shows that the mittens are fleece-lined and very cosy - and obviously popular in our house. To replace these my son just gifted me a pair of the 2018 red mittens for Christmas.<br />
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And just last month, the closing ceremony for the 2018 PeungChang Winter Olympics saw Canadian athletes once again waving their red mittens. All these little pops of white maple leaves look to me like lighters held aloft at a rock concert. With maple leaves on the front <em>and</em> the back, the white maples leaves are visible if you're waving to the crowd <em>or</em> carrying the flag like Canada's favourite couple, Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir, gold-medalists in ice dance.<br />
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We will have to wait until the ParaOlympics are finished to hear the most up-to-date numbers on how much money has been raised through the sale of red mittens. But a press release from 2017 indicated that the Red Mittens have now contributed over $30 million dollars to the Canadian Olympic Foundation. Having become the nation's most iconic symbol of Canadian Olympic pride $3.90 from the sale of each pair of red mittens goes to support Canadian athletes.<br />
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Which brings me to <em>my</em> red mittens and what the red mitten charm represents for me. In previous posts I've shared about how much I love <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/10/do-you-know-what-makes-you-happy.html">Autumn</a> and how I earned my wood muranos by going <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/12/accept-where-you-are-and-start-where.html">hiking</a> in the Fall. But that always seemed to drop off after Christmas, and stop altogether once winter was really upon us. And each Spring I find myself out of shape again. The Spring of 2017 was the worst ever! So this year, as fall turned to winter, I was determined to keep up the walking and hiking, despite the cold and snow.<br />
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As I mentioned in posts about my "<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/05/walk-this-way-in-moment.html">Wildflower Walks</a>" and "<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/01/on-seventh-day-of-christmas-pandora.html"><span style="color: #213abb;">Walking in a Winter Wonderland</span></a>," it really helps to find a <em>reason</em> for exercising - something that "pulls" you - and something that isn't a "<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/05/an-essential-feel-better-lesson-from.html">should</a>." As in, "I <em>should</em> be exercising." Or "I <em>should </em>workout so I can lose weight." In the summer my "pull" was that I was excited to go check out the flowers in bloom. In the fall my "pull" was that I just love the colours. This winter I found a new "pull."<br />
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First of all, when I look outside and see that it's sunny I actually <em>want</em> to go for a walk in my neighbourhood. And I've discovered a brand new incentive. The funniest part is that it was a total surprise, completely unplanned, just like the red mitten phenomenon.<br />
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Earlier in February my husband and I went for our usual Saturday hike. As we rounded a corner, I said, "Oh look at all those chickadees!" Then, "Oh look, there's birdseed on that bench!" I picked some up and held out my mitten-ed hand and said, "Oh how adorable; they're landing on my red mitten! Mike! Take a picture - quick!" So that's the picture I see in my mind when I think about red mittens - that magical moment of hearing the chickadees chirping and then seeing them coming closer on the tree branches, then bravely dashing to my hand and away again - some more cautious than others. I was absolutely delighted!<br />
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Now I <em>want</em> to go for a hike on the weekends, because I want to feed the birds.<br />
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YouTube video <strong>Chickadees on the Sarsaparilla Trail</strong><br />
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YouTube video <strong>Chickadees slo-mo</strong> (stop action)<br />
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So now we are exploring Ottawa's Greenbelt, dubbed the "emerald necklace," a ring of green space surrounding the city with wetlands, forests and fields. It is among the largest urban parks in the world spanning over 200-square-kilometres and containing 150 km of trails for walking, snow-shoeing or cross country skiing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg391gnnB4OLeFeHGZhQYi8ud4UHjGHBfCQhPurae8-CKocKcnjlvIRDle8Uc3ANLcPfW_XYCQK6FW6Whhyphenhyphenh73gDDvTDfVcBSUw_Zbh-JmzsSVLY9UOqVZXlV7lYkNJX1J4In2fMcqpD28/s1600/6798D0CC-5CF7-4A68-899F-811525403CED.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="916" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg391gnnB4OLeFeHGZhQYi8ud4UHjGHBfCQhPurae8-CKocKcnjlvIRDle8Uc3ANLcPfW_XYCQK6FW6Whhyphenhyphenh73gDDvTDfVcBSUw_Zbh-JmzsSVLY9UOqVZXlV7lYkNJX1J4In2fMcqpD28/s320/6798D0CC-5CF7-4A68-899F-811525403CED.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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YouTube video <strong>Chickadees on the Jack Pine Trail</strong>. Watch to the end to see the more cautious fellow. If you have the sound on you can hear the soft thrumming of their wings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqTMDqglxzQ4WnsLYsnvUpup07vpmxlTSSQxA8EXBCe19IzuypfHvth1VxgwygDCFIKshrUyx3WgPaVeEMOISDf3iLG0fzJUnOngFnRLbd289Qmi-pm4FLG_QDqHzBvPn-580uNJAKWY/s1600/IMG_6358.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="757" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqTMDqglxzQ4WnsLYsnvUpup07vpmxlTSSQxA8EXBCe19IzuypfHvth1VxgwygDCFIKshrUyx3WgPaVeEMOISDf3iLG0fzJUnOngFnRLbd289Qmi-pm4FLG_QDqHzBvPn-580uNJAKWY/s320/IMG_6358.jpeg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband feeding the chickadees<br />
Jack Pine Trail</td></tr>
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According to my husband, who just knows these things, we saw blue jays, a downy woodpecker, morning doves, and black-capped chickadees, as well as deer tracks, on the Jack Pine trail. We recently read that someone had encountered deer as well as a snowshoe hare, so we'll definitely want to return to this trail.<br />
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My husband even managed to encourage our 16-year-old daughter to join us a few weeks ago and she took the photos below. My favourite part was her little squawk of surprise when the first chickadee landed on her hand. I was delighted to feed the birds myself but I was even more delighted to hear my daughter say, "They are so tiny! I love them so much!" <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBE2kohZv0guwJjby1WkPcqJ0TVUwn6wF176ZvxjAUOhG4ejksgmkSgeZjiYriQ3dxF3D47WZ5AzeKPB9sbiqT5XXhJcmEOmRdaT2U9W6Yrg9kdtLbmkBP2h5dRmJxLyfQL1ilH9LylrU/s1600/IMG_6096.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="562" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBE2kohZv0guwJjby1WkPcqJ0TVUwn6wF176ZvxjAUOhG4ejksgmkSgeZjiYriQ3dxF3D47WZ5AzeKPB9sbiqT5XXhJcmEOmRdaT2U9W6Yrg9kdtLbmkBP2h5dRmJxLyfQL1ilH9LylrU/s320/IMG_6096.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">black-capped chickadee on the Beaver-Chipmunk Trail</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOUVO_yVz6MbmMLlVXh2zCId2VJUYCXWOjmEnxxdiRs1wQHkg0MSvMhfVKXmxqfM9IxDGjiKv7yIS72mnKQDjMrqLhSDuvIiaKDE-i9XpMsIEZNR718QXMc_MctBkQ_PKn_wFY8I7Yn84/s1600/EC0D6E53-39E7-4BAC-84CC-64B58781D91F.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="626" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOUVO_yVz6MbmMLlVXh2zCId2VJUYCXWOjmEnxxdiRs1wQHkg0MSvMhfVKXmxqfM9IxDGjiKv7yIS72mnKQDjMrqLhSDuvIiaKDE-i9XpMsIEZNR718QXMc_MctBkQ_PKn_wFY8I7Yn84/s320/EC0D6E53-39E7-4BAC-84CC-64B58781D91F.jpeg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">black-capped chickadee on the Sarsparilla Trail</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKLINTcffICd4nSpwXlvcmPVJWVyNP2O-EUgS4_2VlFzd6DDoUAbbY7dN_m9lU6jaOWuw5Gz7Km7LE1MbvJXrjDyQq7wOkJVOLz9NAQ83RysVbcB0HNySYXSAdkXHizLUKV7yHtzgPP8/s1600/E546FE26-2B2D-471E-BA6A-CB3590D1CAEC.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="586" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKLINTcffICd4nSpwXlvcmPVJWVyNP2O-EUgS4_2VlFzd6DDoUAbbY7dN_m9lU6jaOWuw5Gz7Km7LE1MbvJXrjDyQq7wOkJVOLz9NAQ83RysVbcB0HNySYXSAdkXHizLUKV7yHtzgPP8/s320/E546FE26-2B2D-471E-BA6A-CB3590D1CAEC.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">black-capped chickadee on the boardwalk of Sarsaparilla Trail</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitO37hZggr9KF3Aw9YzjWcGKv1mOlCfBGEfWNeSAN-zVnqHC1W0CychgSMA4lP5VuLAHCKNUyYdR4kR_I8arrquLF8_o7keb40_nmJCo7dqRNSetpHD36WtHqfP_fhTJVCMbiDmJTjUNg/s1600/8CE737B2-9A98-49D0-B78E-2E0A1DD01498.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="642" data-original-width="642" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitO37hZggr9KF3Aw9YzjWcGKv1mOlCfBGEfWNeSAN-zVnqHC1W0CychgSMA4lP5VuLAHCKNUyYdR4kR_I8arrquLF8_o7keb40_nmJCo7dqRNSetpHD36WtHqfP_fhTJVCMbiDmJTjUNg/s320/8CE737B2-9A98-49D0-B78E-2E0A1DD01498.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new-comer: a red-breasted nuthatch</td></tr>
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For me the red mitten charm, which will likely last longer than the latest pair of red mittens, will not only mean cheering for Olympians, representing my pride in being Canadian, but also this special activity of finding hiking trails where we can feed the birds. It warms my heart to know that some of the proceeds hep Olympic athletes. And it warms my heart to be in touch with nature. I've found a delightful reason to get outside during this long, dark and <em>cold</em> "Canadian Winter," as the red mitten charm is called. This has really been helping me beat the winter blues this year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS9EF4gIaHaCRp_WIdH5l4rij_OASDfrjDAJXQEoN5IYL9To22QScCs3nVfJDBU4fa2V1hlxzUGIjAjzARRv7Q0Sztf5gYO9FG9JZscxYuWqouQF9YG4fpbLs0nfV07Lpo-lnh6zbk7k8/s1600/C51E9C29-D08F-4B1F-B64F-5D729A601ACB.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="757" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS9EF4gIaHaCRp_WIdH5l4rij_OASDfrjDAJXQEoN5IYL9To22QScCs3nVfJDBU4fa2V1hlxzUGIjAjzARRv7Q0Sztf5gYO9FG9JZscxYuWqouQF9YG4fpbLs0nfV07Lpo-lnh6zbk7k8/s400/C51E9C29-D08F-4B1F-B64F-5D729A601ACB.jpeg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chickadees on my old red mittens</td></tr>
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And in case you're wondering, Yes, it is still Winter in Canada, and Yes, we are still wearing mittens. It snowed almost every day last week!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-WJgzQphxPP_HN5y3G7Gzyc3YmT5Nv2cCgQWVlIQXTZ4c37DxHF-ojavmHxc7QH5CBY1x0JN8sAWw0loAtOxk63c4zDHaf9fpq9wQ3Bk0ZkLkonl1VmDVJgVx794B6kLrIIhtMokSsY/s1600/winter.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-WJgzQphxPP_HN5y3G7Gzyc3YmT5Nv2cCgQWVlIQXTZ4c37DxHF-ojavmHxc7QH5CBY1x0JN8sAWw0loAtOxk63c4zDHaf9fpq9wQ3Bk0ZkLkonl1VmDVJgVx794B6kLrIIhtMokSsY/s320/winter.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh snow, less than a week ago: Tuesday, March 13, 2018</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDiiNhyphenhyphenNSbp0rGpobFazlrdiW7muutzNw9rEzzk1HEJm6heOT31yUuIx2oElMyhQ7EPSKuMH76LOmGSbkGRafOXXUlax1QcHiosetXFakrp7Iv6SXJ3Xk5C5XRHvM_QEYplaGl1j6KIQw/s1600/IMG_6353.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDiiNhyphenhyphenNSbp0rGpobFazlrdiW7muutzNw9rEzzk1HEJm6heOT31yUuIx2oElMyhQ7EPSKuMH76LOmGSbkGRafOXXUlax1QcHiosetXFakrp7Iv6SXJ3Xk5C5XRHvM_QEYplaGl1j6KIQw/s320/IMG_6353.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few snowflakes landed on my mitten</td></tr>
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<strong><em>My Thoughts on the Red Mitten Charm:</em></strong><br />
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The red mitten charm, officially called "Canadian Winter," is an almost perfect replication of the original red mitten from the 2010 Winter Olympics Games in Vancouver Canada.<br />
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If you look closely you can see that the charm is indented and then filled with red enamel, with raised silver lines to depict the cuff of the mitten. The maple leaf is raised and filled with the white enamel.<br />
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While the bale on many Pandora charms is set with cubic zirconia recently, I like the simpler look of the little line of hearts. And the hearts surrounding the dangle are adorable. Unlike previous exclusive charms that are engraved on Pandora's "Unforgettable Moments" dangle with the Pandora logo on the back, these newer lines of exclusive charms are blank on the back, perfect for a custom engraving.<br />
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This red mitten charm is much more affordable than the charm that Pandora released at the time of the Vancouver Olympics. It now sells in Facebook groups for over $200. I did see these in stores when I first started purchasing Pandora in December of 2011, but I wasn't prepared to spend $99 on a charm which, at the time, I thought looked like a golf ball with a maple leaf on it. Many people reported that the white enamel was yellowing, another reason I've avoided this charm.<br />
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For now I am wearing the red mitten charm on my triple red smooth leather bracelet and it sits perfectly between the pine cone charm and the bright ornament charm, each with a ribbon on them. I might try and find a spot for the red mitten dangle on my Christmas bracelet with these next year.<br />
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If I'm really honest I think I'll just have to make a Canada bracelet. I've been contemplating a travel bracelet but Greece and Mexico are the only places I've been to outside of North America - although a girl can dream!<br />
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So in looking at other charms to represent Canada I've found quite a few. The charms in the first picture below are all available at the Pandora store in the Fairview mall (@pandorafairview) in Toronto. I was never really thrilled with the heart-shaped Canada flag dangle (first from the left) and I haven't really embraced the button-style charms, but I'd make an exception for that large maple leaf (second from the left). The button charm has either Toronto or Canada engraved on the back. The black murano with Canada on it is quite striking and I love that it has a red maple leaf. The <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2017/04/the-maple-leaf-for-making-memories.html">maple leaf</a> charm with the red cz is already in use on another bracelet of mine, but I did live in Toronto at one time so that last charm would work. My favourite thing to do in Toronto was to take the ferry to Toronto Island and look back across the water at the city skyline.<br />
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I worked for a summer in the Canadian Rockies and spent most of my days off in the town of Banff, Alberta. There is a store in Banff that has some exclusive charms - these are my favs. I don't know if I would be able to decide between the red maple leaf and the black moose. Find them on Instagram (@PandoraBanff) if you want to see their other exclusive charms and engraved muranos for both Banff and Lake Louise.<br />
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This red murano engraved with "Canada" is sold at my favourite Pandora concept store in Ottawa, at the Rideau Centre mall (@pandorarideau). I think it would go very nicely with the black engraved murano.<br />
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These exclusive charms were all purchased for a friend in Spain, most from the Rideau Centre. If I'm going to do a Canada bracelet I might have to get a few of these other pieces.<br />
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A few of those charms are also from the store I always visit when I'm back "home" in Nova Scotia. The lovely ladies at the Pandora store in the Mic Mac Mall (@pandoramicmac) kindly gifted me one of the Pride Flag charms last summer. The following charms represent Halifax, the city where I grew up, and Nova Scotia, the Canadian province I'm from. And most people who grow up in the Atlantic Provinces love the "East Coast" lifestyle!<br />
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I'm doomed.<br />
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<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/05/finding-motivation-and-building-habits.html"><span style="color: #213abb;">Finding motivation and building habits</span></a> - a story about how the Wildflower Walks turned into finding a new passion in photographing flowers and discovering a significant new affirmation - and the charm that represents it.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/03/can-you-see-whats-there-its-wonderland.html"><span style="color: #213abb;">Can you see what's there? It's a wonderland</span></a> - a story about how looking around you and seeing beauty can help in the recovery from food issues, as well as healing personally and spiritually; I've also included a short piece about my mother's battle with Alzheimer's - and the charm that represents it.<br />
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/06/breakfast-most-important-meal-of-day.html">Breakfast - the most important meal of the day, for a different reason</a> - a story about trying to make lifestyle changes and why we feel badly about ourselves when we inevitably fail; I share my story about making SMART goals and the importance of identifying barriers - and charm that reminds me of the importance of connecting with our kids.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-41775475607551214362018-01-16T10:10:00.000-05:002018-01-16T13:44:15.138-05:00Three Kings... and a clean fridgeOnce again I can't quite believe I'm doing this. Once again I'm going to share with you my shame. I'm going to show you my fridge, the hasn't-been-cleaned-in-11-years fridge.<br />
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And you need to see the fridge to truly appreciate what an accomplishment it is, why it is such a huge deal, when I say, "We had <em>adults </em>in our house last weekend!"<br />
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And these were not "safe" adults, the few I can trust not to judge me, or judge the state of our home, but Adults-with-a-capital-A that I... had... <em>never... met</em>!<br />
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When we moved into our current home, we had an open house party on "The Twelfth Day of Christmas" January 6. We had painted our dining room, living room and hallways, as well as the bedrooms. The kids now had separate rooms, pink for Taylor, blue for Mitchell, as you can see in the photo below.<br />
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<span class="fbPhotoCaptionText">[In Jan 2007 a woman in Vancouver delivered sextuplets. Since the local paper couldn't get pictures from the family (who wanted to remain an<span class="text_exposed_show">onymous), a photographer from the Ottawa Sun came and took some photos of our "multiples", Mitchell and Taylor. This close-up photo is the one that ran in the paper.]</span></span><br />
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After our successful Twelfth Night party, the kids asked if we could have a party again the next year. But I couldn't manage it. That year had been just a <em>little</em> stressful. We discovered that our daughter Taylor was struggling in school and we needed to have a psycho-educational assessment done. Because she was only in grade one, she was too young to be diagnosed with a learning disability, but she had some processing issues, and was at risk for literacy problems, so we were advised to remove her from the French Immersion program. Three years later it was confirmed that she had dyslexia, so it <em>was</em> a good move.<br />
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But we were also struggling with Mitchell's behaviour at home. A psycho-educational assessment for Mitchell said that he would be fine to stay in French Immersion, while Taylor started grade two in her new English-only school. But Mitchell was struggling at school too. We discovered that he was having problems with his teacher, and the way the school handled active little boys in the French Immersion program. His anger and anxiety was spilling over at home. By March Break we knew we needed to move him as well - and get him some help. (You can read more about how we tried to help Mitchell in this <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/the-turtle-part-two-gimme-some-fin.html">post</a> inspired by Nemo's dad Marlin) Unfortunately leaving the French Immersion school also meant the kids losing all their friends, and <em>me</em> losing the community that I had worked so hard to create, a community of moms, friends and families. So, as I said, just a "little" stressful that year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBdrwQHkOjAwoKJ4-jDZscbKqMy0j5LOsuCzfny4ie9Gp6VI_NPQVX6MZYPgJB1XqPuAeKGGkvmlqeYKSV8MD5X09DrhW5JdNu-KZBdSWXEQKVCPXX_krVOsaqkvIewfqrVsmXPMnU1A/s1600/12669697_10153813056825731_1428957163867334030_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBdrwQHkOjAwoKJ4-jDZscbKqMy0j5LOsuCzfny4ie9Gp6VI_NPQVX6MZYPgJB1XqPuAeKGGkvmlqeYKSV8MD5X09DrhW5JdNu-KZBdSWXEQKVCPXX_krVOsaqkvIewfqrVsmXPMnU1A/s320/12669697_10153813056825731_1428957163867334030_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our last Christmas with my mom, 2007</td></tr>
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A few years earlier my mother had moved from Halifax (my hometown) to Ottawa where we live now. She was living in a retirement home not far from our house. It was a lot of work for me, not just because she was blind and had some hearing impairment, but because she had osteoporotic fractures in her spine, her collar bone, and then her hip. And because she had <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/03/can-you-see-whats-there-its-wonderland.html">Alzheimer's</a>. By the Fall of 2007 her health had declined significantly and she needed to be moved to a long-term care facility, essentially a "nursing home." Christmas 2007 was our last Christmas with my mom, who passed away at the beginning of February 2008. So, as I said, just a "little" stressful that year.<br />
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And <em>then</em> my depression came roaring back. In part, because of my health. I had uterine hemorrhaging and was practically bed-ridden for two years. This is an excerpt from a previous post (you can read the gory details - that women just don't talk about - <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/02/bellies-and-babies-and-girlie-parts.html">here</a>)<br />
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<em>My iron got lower and lower. I got weaker and weaker. I was more and more tired. I could barely walk up even the most gentle of slopes. I was unable to do anything around the house. My poor husband had to take over laundry and meals, leaving me feeling pretty incapable, adding to my depression. And it also left our home to get more and more cluttered, while my fitness level and mood kept falling.</em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vuTV25NpMC4gCK0YRhRvIVzoh0HCSHqi7ljKDkfxnUzjw2v1_P4pqG511zVn-9ZwxPCNsMc7L7VEYN82ObOiPbELt1DXAmMP8zmP8RE9J1XS5jsHNz-ip5u2tME-aTkGxFVhhzB9eE8/s1600/mitchell.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1360" data-original-width="1600" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vuTV25NpMC4gCK0YRhRvIVzoh0HCSHqi7ljKDkfxnUzjw2v1_P4pqG511zVn-9ZwxPCNsMc7L7VEYN82ObOiPbELt1DXAmMP8zmP8RE9J1XS5jsHNz-ip5u2tME-aTkGxFVhhzB9eE8/s320/mitchell.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mitchell and his bedroom when we first moved in<br />
and "After" a few years</td></tr>
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And <em>then</em> my depression worsened. And <em>then</em> my <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/if-my-father-were-still-alive-he-would.html">father</a> died. And <em>then</em> I started having <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/11/will-he-always-love-me.html">panic attacks</a>.<br />
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I thought I had Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) because the winters were so hard. I saw a specialist and he put me on some meds. When I went back to see him he said, "You feel better in the Spring right?" My response was, "Um. Not so much. In fact we didn't take down our Christmas <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/01/death-grief-tears-and-christmas-bauble.html">tree</a>." He said, "Ah. This is not S.A.D., this is a major depressive episode." He referred me to a CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) group where I learned about riding the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/03/managing-emotions-means-learning-to-surf.html">wave</a> of emotions. It was also where I first realized the shame I had about our house, and learned the strategy of just doing ten minutes, to <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/clean-up-with-tea-cup.html">clean up with tea cup</a>. And <em>then</em>, at the end of that group therapy session, I decided I needed to tackle my eating disorder. I joined a therapy group at the Hopewell Eating Disorder Support Centre. The therapist (who inspired the <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/08/advice-on-managing-anxiety-from-turtle.html">turtle</a> charm) and the women that I met in that group made so much difference in my life. I called them my "Flower Power."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1deQJfI6pJv6NwQF4NrTt7P7fvw7n3crf9Jw6qFjSZQk89oMus58LmRVgl9sRA2d50hZG-1JAWogBzyXxihvk73k1l_WMfFqvgiM4dDOogAoJ49NYYraMZ5DbEShHZPMhLtFMa8zHsCc/s1600/Flower+Power.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1deQJfI6pJv6NwQF4NrTt7P7fvw7n3crf9Jw6qFjSZQk89oMus58LmRVgl9sRA2d50hZG-1JAWogBzyXxihvk73k1l_WMfFqvgiM4dDOogAoJ49NYYraMZ5DbEShHZPMhLtFMa8zHsCc/s320/Flower+Power.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
And <em>then</em>, in December of 2011, I started to overcome my <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/i-have-battled-eating-disorder-and.html">eating disorder</a>, using Pandora charms as my reward. And <em>then</em> after two-and-a-half years of recovery, I asked for help with my depression and panic attacks. And <em>then</em> I attended the "<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/do-i-really-deserve-to-be-happy-and.html">Day Hospital</a>" program in the fall of 2014. And <em>then</em> I did six months of schema-focused therapy in the winter and spring of 2015. And <em>then</em> I participated in a program called "<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/11/when-your-brain-and-body-scream-911.html">Working with Emotions</a>" doing a program based on DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy) in the fall of 2015. And <em>then</em> I was enrolled in a mindfulness meditation series in the winter of 2016. And <em>since</em> then, I have continued working on all of the skills I acquired, with support from my family doctor and a social worker.<br />
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And <em>now</em> here we are, in January 2018, in a house that had not been thoroughly cleaned in a looooong time. And <em>now</em> I realize that with all the work I've been doing I have not been writing very many blog posts.<br />
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I'm not sure when the kids stopped asking if we were going to have another Christmas party, but they <em>did</em> stop. We didn't invite adults to our home for many years. I was just too ashamed of how bad it got. But we've been working on our Clean Sweep for some time now, using the <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2017/02/how-hopi-helps-with-housework.html">Hopi</a> charm as inspiration, so this year I suggested we invite <em>parents</em> to our Saturday Games Night, which just happened to fall on Twelfth Night, January 6. My only stipulation was that the kids had to promise to do some major cleaning jobs on their Christmas vacation.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKsiziyqPDqn3FLeselp2AYHQuVKRKu6Qd8E33HIouyq536yZvboepz7tJmzcKgUNTBYuAKoEDwhCDqTJasxwHtOh-Wu9KPEO53Q4a7goLBMcnV6V58vx7G-i0bKLyLnc3sejEmJbavqI/s1600/basement.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1098" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKsiziyqPDqn3FLeselp2AYHQuVKRKu6Qd8E33HIouyq536yZvboepz7tJmzcKgUNTBYuAKoEDwhCDqTJasxwHtOh-Wu9KPEO53Q4a7goLBMcnV6V58vx7G-i0bKLyLnc3sejEmJbavqI/s320/basement.JPG" width="219" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Before" and "After"</td></tr>
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One of Taylor's chores was to tidy the basement. We have done a major Clean Sweep in the basement, as you can see from the "Before" photo. (That is a story for another day.) Those plastic bins were ready for the start of our Clean Sweep. In the top photo on the far right you can just see where the futon was open after someone was here for a visit. We have painted the basement, and when Taylor tidied up, she covered the old stained futon with this bear paw <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/02/before-pandora-there-were-angels.html">quilt</a> that my (blind!) mother made for our wedding. I thought it was quite a brilliant move on Taylor's part, so I took a picture.<br />
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When we started <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2017/06/its-10-pm-do-you-know-where-your.html">Games Night</a> it was my intention to invite families, not just kids. But it never happened. We've been holding Games Night since the kids were in grade 7 and they are now in grade 11. And all those years, I was too ashamed to have adults come to our home. Shame can be very isolating.<br />
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Although it feels like we've been working on our Clean Sweep for a looooong time, the house was still VERY dirty. And I could not bear the thought of people seeing it so dirty. The kids were whining and questioning <em>why</em> we need to clean. Mike assigned Taylor the job of cleaning the fridge and of course she complained, and said, "Why do we need to clean the fridge?" So when she got to the part where she took out the fruit and vegetable bins, I said "THAT is why we need to clean the fridge!" and so I took a picture.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGBQGse778edRKQqCaLRSO0RvdeFEEnzRIznSBh7nn_elg0N3cgFDFzRKc6m0Eoi5fLQnB9q0ateNFTtYAE3HlGzSutZyH2rWooFOmHn8VSeXlfxZR8DKpU_Oyrc3LfLzSlS0qDcxj_cU/s1600/IMG_3362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1110" data-original-width="1600" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGBQGse778edRKQqCaLRSO0RvdeFEEnzRIznSBh7nn_elg0N3cgFDFzRKc6m0Eoi5fLQnB9q0ateNFTtYAE3HlGzSutZyH2rWooFOmHn8VSeXlfxZR8DKpU_Oyrc3LfLzSlS0qDcxj_cU/s320/IMG_3362.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Before" and "After" of the fridge</td></tr>
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Mike washed the kitchen cupboards, the range hood, and the spice rack over the stove that had a quarter-inch layer of kitchen grease and dust. I was in charge of kitchen sink, countertops and backsplashes, windows, all appliances from microwave to clothes dryer, as well as bathroom toilets, shower and bathtub. Mitchell was in charge of vacuuming everywhere as well as washing <em>all </em>the walls and woodwork - doors, window frames, etc. He was so surprised to see what a difference it was making, particularly the stairwell. And I said, "THAT is why we need to clean the house!" But I forgot to take a picture. Taylor had the jobs of dusting everything, including all bookshelves, cleaning the basement bathroom and scrubbing the shower floor, tidying the basement, organizing the games... and cleaning the fridge.<br />
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What did <em>you</em> do on your Christmas vacation? We cleaned our house and had a PARTY! And this massive accomplishment will be marked by Pandora's "Three Wise Men" charm on my "Victorian Christmas" bracelet.<br />
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"On the Twelfth Day of Christmas my true love gave to me....</div>
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a clean house and Christmas par-TEE."</div>
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(and the three kings charm)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqaL_6xVcevHvv9gKoV56I3z1EJhZC_vJrDs-QGE2938uW7y4hHD_OQAxSWb6kY4OS8vykikAc0uqKyPUbTqOL8A_nEI3JtJErQ8JoSgWS9kACPJGZRb0uQOVoniRmI5_DX22Ir8wDNY/s1600/IMG_3295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1358" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqaL_6xVcevHvv9gKoV56I3z1EJhZC_vJrDs-QGE2938uW7y4hHD_OQAxSWb6kY4OS8vykikAc0uqKyPUbTqOL8A_nEI3JtJErQ8JoSgWS9kACPJGZRb0uQOVoniRmI5_DX22Ir8wDNY/s400/IMG_3295.JPG" width="338" /></a></div>
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And how WAS the party you ask? Well, we had so much fun I forgot to take photos! There were 15 of us in total, including three other parents - moms. Upon arriving, the first mom said, "I wish I was one of those parents that has people over. I'm glad you are." If only she knew! I just smiled and told her, "If the kids are going to hang out with friends, we'd rather have them do it here." She was so pleased to come, and participate, because her daughter, she says, "is always so excited to come."</div>
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Taylor's best friend (and a friend of Mitchell's too) said, "My other friends want me to go out with them and are surprised that I'd rather come to Games Night. But it's <em>easy</em> here." So easy in fact that she fell asleep on the couch in the midst of the game. Her mom said, "She thinks she's part of your family." We're happy to have her.</div>
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As everyone was leaving, the third mom said, "I've offered to have everyone come to <em>our</em> house." But her daughter just waved her off and said, "It wouldn't be the same Mom." My only complaint was I would have enjoyed visiting with the other moms rather than just playing games - and maybe made a new friend - or three.</div>
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I've made many friends from around the world through Pandora. And I was curious when I saw people from Spain share photos about "Three Kings Day." And Puerto Rican friends said their kids would leave hay for the camels of the three kings and the magi would leave gifts for the children. <em>Los Reyes Magos, </em>celebrates the arrival of the three wise men in Bethlehem. In French countries - and French Canadian cities - the tradition has been to celebrate with a cake, <a href="https://ca.ambafrance.org/The-galette-des-rois-a-very-French"><em>Galette des Rois</em></a>, in which a small toy was hidden, sometimes a baby to represent the three kings searching for Baby Jesus. The person who found the toy would be king and wore the crown, which luckily comes <em>with</em> the cake when you buy it. We gave it a try a few years ago but nobody was particularly fond of the cake, and the kids were really too old by that time to care much for wearing a paper crown, even if it was gold. But now we have a new tradition on January 6 - A Three Kings Party.<br />
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I have to say, it is getting easier to share my shame. Because I know that there are others struggling with the same things. And I know this because many of you have been in contact with me. To let <em>other </em>readers know that <em>they</em> are not alone, please comment (anonymously if you prefer) to say you can relate.<br />
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I think the other reason that I have less anxiety when I "share the shame" (that should be a hashtag) is that I am more accepting of myself and my situation, and recognizing how I got here. <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/12/accept-where-you-are-and-start-where.html">Accept where you are and start where you're at</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZlEwuYmsm7IVQMz4aSvGcyJWuIaejVqU_6bcRqn6LKOb6x9WpESeY0LS4rPVqfELm7JnMMqcv9PSkgNZnk2Tps9NuClk_AkzlOFvOO_6D2lOx42MJ2-DYsDFAWGkpaZCqk60dUPxkxw/s1600/image_6483441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="926" data-original-width="1600" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZlEwuYmsm7IVQMz4aSvGcyJWuIaejVqU_6bcRqn6LKOb6x9WpESeY0LS4rPVqfELm7JnMMqcv9PSkgNZnk2Tps9NuClk_AkzlOFvOO_6D2lOx42MJ2-DYsDFAWGkpaZCqk60dUPxkxw/s320/image_6483441.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pandora stock photos</td></tr>
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My thoughts on the charm itself: This is a nice solid two-tone charm. The details of the kings' crowns, garments and offerings are fabulous, especially the gold cross on the back. Although I have to say, up close, the hollow eye sockets are kind of freaky. Pandora always does good details like tails, backsides and <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/01/sometimes-you-just-buy-charm-because.html">butts</a>, and in this case the feet of the three kings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuypSyV3UDcoThMLSyLy2lcEJi-033wR-ShXyXd0AdyXPh0dZAWhsBNaWyao_qQpgErHTA1sZ2RKz9WD5ST-ul_Lpe6_bP5Y94kSMq2pKMNlgtWLL-EUH4aUbMM8gGVLBfUmkAfR0LBSM/s1600/feet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="251" data-original-width="614" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuypSyV3UDcoThMLSyLy2lcEJi-033wR-ShXyXd0AdyXPh0dZAWhsBNaWyao_qQpgErHTA1sZ2RKz9WD5ST-ul_Lpe6_bP5Y94kSMq2pKMNlgtWLL-EUH4aUbMM8gGVLBfUmkAfR0LBSM/s320/feet.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from the blog Charms Addict</td></tr>
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Maybe this year I'll work on earning the Twelve Days of Christmas charms by redbalifrog.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwYodlPeb_JxkYZLYFzvwzxaIi7YLC7dR9SQ-lWRbLO8KjF3L6r9EZt19y3UU_HSNNIqFm8ifZsw4JUPHYVeGABVISAWFCEJH5YI1ee2VS3furfWAJ9ewjb3k4G5it5T-vwtUVpeLVLs/s1600/IMG_3389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwYodlPeb_JxkYZLYFzvwzxaIi7YLC7dR9SQ-lWRbLO8KjF3L6r9EZt19y3UU_HSNNIqFm8ifZsw4JUPHYVeGABVISAWFCEJH5YI1ee2VS3furfWAJ9ewjb3k4G5it5T-vwtUVpeLVLs/s320/IMG_3389.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Paula Jackson of the blog beadsaholic<br />
Find the link in my Blogroll</td></tr>
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Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-12337048925352943942017-09-29T15:35:00.000-04:002017-09-30T13:25:55.135-04:00Just call him crazy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwJ83pCrgPiepv10_Bk-SVbgb_I6SQpCNeGkU5mcioRWbY5uh93nuNnlAatjuXFmqMJ-Y1yzobHs1kXakWvGXEQFUbR2FpBY2S2dttpAoby39nsAXMR0DNpyCbDUvFtzEUvuQhlt3_ik/s1600/IMG_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1253" data-original-width="1600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwJ83pCrgPiepv10_Bk-SVbgb_I6SQpCNeGkU5mcioRWbY5uh93nuNnlAatjuXFmqMJ-Y1yzobHs1kXakWvGXEQFUbR2FpBY2S2dttpAoby39nsAXMR0DNpyCbDUvFtzEUvuQhlt3_ik/s320/IMG_0036.JPG" width="320"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwJ83pCrgPiepv10_Bk-SVbgb_I6SQpCNeGkU5mcioRWbY5uh93nuNnlAatjuXFmqMJ-Y1yzobHs1kXakWvGXEQFUbR2FpBY2S2dttpAoby39nsAXMR0DNpyCbDUvFtzEUvuQhlt3_ik/s1600/IMG_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br></a>I can't believe I haven't done a blog post since June! But I <em>have</em> been thinking about this one since my husband's birthday at the end of June.<br>
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I think after seeing these photos and hearing these tales of Mike's pranks and shenanigans you might just agree with me when I say Mike is a pretty "crazy" guy. And you'll see why I added these "crazy" clips to my red "Always and Forever" marriage bracelet. You won't believe Mike's latest caper. It even had my teenaged son saying, "Ewwww."<br>
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My family went to see "Wonder Woman" on Father's Day in June, and I took this photo of my husband posing with the emojis. As I shook my head and thought, "What a crazy guy!" I realized I should gather some photos and let you get to know my crazy husband a little better.<br>
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Video: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/videos/vb.539175730/10154169202215731/?type=3&theater">My crazy husband telling a story on his birthday</a></div>
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Upon meeting my husband, most people think he's quiet, serious, dependable, and level-headed. But those of us who know him well - and that now includes most of my Facebook friends - we know that he's very funny and really just a kid at heart. Mike collects comic books - lots and lots of comic books. He loves LEGO - of course he's into the much more expensive Architect sets. And on Christmas day he puts on every piece of clothing he receives as a gift - all at the same time. Whenever I share a photo of Mike on Facebook it's a photo of him being silly.<br>
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When our daughter Taylor needed a photo of both Mike and I for a school project it took a few shots before I could get one of him <em>not </em>being silly.<br>
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Mike is known in the neighbourhood as quite the crooner. At the elementary school end-of-year barbeque they used to have karaoke. The first year Mike got up and sang "Copacabana." All the other moms spoke to me afterwards because they were so surprised that this serious quiet guy was such a singer - and more importantly a performer. The following year he sang, "I Will Survive," and in this photo he was singing "Roxanne." He tried to get our twins to be back-up singers but they chickened out at the last minute.<br>
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Mike also has the freakish ability to remember the lyrics to almost any song (like those above), or a jingle from an ad. He will also <em>make up</em> his own lyrics to a song. On this occasion, he had us all in stitches after a buffet dinner at the hotel when he sang "<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/videos/vb.539175730/10153488211455731/?type=3&theater">Had too much buffet</a>."</div>
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When Mike ran the New York City marathon (over 20 years ago now), he ran much of the race beside a guy dressed up in a Gumby costume. So one year, when the Salvation Army had a race on Boxing Day, called the "Santa Shuffle," Mike decided to dress up as Gingy from the Shrek movies. Just like Gumby, he had lots of people cheering him on and many people wanted to take their photo with the famous gingerbread man who ran ran as fast as he can.<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike's partner in crime was supposed to wear the angry Gingy costume</td></tr>
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When Taylor and her friend Jia Qi trained with Mike to do the Colour Run, Mike went out and found something to wear. Because powdered dye is thrown at you during the race he wanted to find something white. He didn't tell the girls what he bought at the thrift store. So when they arrived at the race he made a big production of ripping off his tear-away sweatpants, revealing his full-length white frock. You can tell in this photo that the girls are just a little embarrassed to be seen with this crazy guy. Mike has declared it his mission in life to embarrass our kids.<br>
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Mike is always ready to jump in and do things with the kids. I've shared pictures previously of him taking the kids <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2017/04/the-maple-leaf-for-making-memories.html">downhill skiing</a> or tubing, but he will also jump on giant pillows, go rock-climbing, zip-lining - you name it. He was even willing to humiliate himself when the kids first tried <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/videos/vb.539175730/10154695672265731/?type=3&theater">Just Dance</a> on the WiiU. If you read my story about <a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2017/06/its-10-pm-do-you-know-where-your.html">Games Night</a> you might have seen this video taken while Taylor was trying to make a shot in pool: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/videos/vb.539175730/10153923602140731/?type=3&theater">Is this distracting?</a><br>
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Before our kids were born Mike's office desk was covered in figurines of Superman and other super-heros, as well as characters from The Simpsons. More recently it's been vehicles from the Cars movie, Perplexus, and LEGO mini-figs.<br>
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When Mike was moved to a cubicle he said, very sarcastically, that he had enough room for a swimming pool. Didn't one of his staff go and buy him a blow-up kiddie pool! And so, just like people with a pool in their backyard, Mike had an end-of-summer pool-closing party. The kids and I stopped by to check it out.<br>
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One year, Mike played a trick on two of his employees. When they returned from holidays their offices were filled with balloons. It took them (he and the other staff) four days to blow up all those balloons. His staff paid him back on his birthday. His office was too big to <em>fill </em>with balloons but they hung balloons from the ceiling, in the doorway, and covered the floor in balloons. They even decorated his desk and gift-wrapped the conference table! <br>
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When they took Mike out for a birthday lunch there was a clown that made Mike his very own bowtie and clown nose. It has now become a tradition to do something crazy on Mike's birthday. <br>
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The next year on his birthday his staff filled over 500 plastic cups with water and food colouring and completely covered the surface of his desk and the floor.<br>
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Last year they had a little get together for Mike's birthday and served him cake made from Pop Tarts and filled with Jelly Belly jelly beans - they know him so well!<br>
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When Mike was moved from an enclosed office to a cubicle he realized he didn't have enough room for all his books... or his exercise ball... or his conference table. So he managed to remove a wall between his office and the adjacent cubicle which just happened to be empty . He used his bookshelf as a sliding "hidden door," just like you see in the movies. Only recently, with another reorganization of their offices, Mike did sadly lose that extra space.<br>
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Very recently Mike and his staff moved to these new cubicles. One day, he and two of his staff were all talking to each other, each leaning over and peeking out from the doorways of their offices. Mike realized that all the others could see was his head, his lower legs, and his feet. So he wheeled back into his office. Still wearing his shorts, he slipped his jeans over his sneakers and rolled back out so the staff could see him - looking like he's sitting on the can. And that's the reason Mitchell said, "Ewwww!" when I showed him this photo.<br>
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Today is the last day for a valued employee who is moving to a different department. Yes, the employee who blew up balloons, filled all those plastic cups, and has been an enabler in the collecting of toys. This morning the kids and I were all shaking our heads when we saw that Mike is wearing all black today, on this day of mourning, when he will have to say goodbye to one of his favourite employees. Why would you want to <em>stop</em> working for this crazy man? Lord love him.<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What I stack with my "Always and Forever" bracelet.<br>
The bangle and the "I love you" charm were gifts from our Anniversary in July</td></tr>
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Related Posts</h4>
<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/08/my-home-my-marriage-my-husband-and-my.html">My home, my marriage, my husband, and my honeymoon - all wrapped up in one little lighthouse</a> - a story about the lighthouse charm and all that it represents to me, including how to keep a marriage strong. And there's a little poem I wrote, about my husband.<br>
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/the-lighthouse-part-2-im-higher-up-in.html">The lighthouse part 2 "I'm higher up in the lighthouse"</a> - a story about the importance of the lighthouse when you're battling depression or feeling like you're not getting anywhere.<br>
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/two-babies-two-parents-many.html">Two babies, two parents, many "unforgettable moments"</a> - a story about finding out we were pregnant with twins (and the charm to represent it), about our time on parental leave, and why I call a charm "Ring around the rosie."<br>
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/06/the-beginning-of-always-and-forever.html">The beginning of "Always and Forever"</a>- a story about how we met, the meaning of the original clips on this bracelet, and why my husband said kissing me was like kissing his sister.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-57297479911041951862017-09-29T11:23:00.000-04:002017-09-29T11:31:09.828-04:00My home, my marriage, my husband, and my honeymoon - all wrapped up in one little lighthouse<span style="font-family: inherit;">Originally published August 2014</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">There are so many potential meanings for a lighthouse charm! In fact, I had so much to say about lighthouses I'm going to have to do a Part 2.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Northwest Arm at the end of my street.</td></tr>
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First of all, lighthouses remind me of home. I grew up by the sea. You never knew what today's weather would be until the fog burned off in the morning. My daily chore was to get the clothes off the clothesline before the fog rolled in again in the late afternoon - before my mom got home from work. And fireworks were frequently cancelled due to fog. Lighthouses were necessary in Nova Scotia!</div>
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I could walk ten minutes from my house and sit and look out at the ocean - which I did quite often. Going for a hike would afford even better views of the wide blue expanse. My husband and I live in the centre of Canada now and I miss the sights and the sounds - and even the smells - of the sea.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7k3QFv5ZARe8WqgZOsSujZDYOBJF9U07iuBOo6gXNjJBGVXf8FelhBKbip5r6jmK9s_aywUyQF8YS7ajtM1-zF2z-iaGIhhLZk1-ogaCuuY6t3x6k3cX6jFZ-c7RA85hHLJg4f5ocQw/s640/blogger-image--146796086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7k3QFv5ZARe8WqgZOsSujZDYOBJF9U07iuBOo6gXNjJBGVXf8FelhBKbip5r6jmK9s_aywUyQF8YS7ajtM1-zF2z-iaGIhhLZk1-ogaCuuY6t3x6k3cX6jFZ-c7RA85hHLJg4f5ocQw/s400/blogger-image--146796086.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking out to sea from York Redoubt</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tall ship passing by the lighthouse on George's Island</td></tr>
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This lighthouse is on a small island in the mouth of the harbour in my hometown of Halifax. During earlier times of tall ships, as well as more recent years of naval business, and giant container ships and ocean liners, this lighthouse would guide ships safely through the narrow mouth of the protective harbour.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVICc_6TV0vvZtQC3gl_LLesqJo3kmolxOvlfI5xAcOrvA-s3r3DqbM9SnhjdpysudmxcJd2YKgxT4FM4vLGlZ3-DDV_Zlaqnf3OEMhP5zou5BfBjqfChVdjdEhvbS8fXRgY4EYZihcho/s640/blogger-image-1794740330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVICc_6TV0vvZtQC3gl_LLesqJo3kmolxOvlfI5xAcOrvA-s3r3DqbM9SnhjdpysudmxcJd2YKgxT4FM4vLGlZ3-DDV_Zlaqnf3OEMhP5zou5BfBjqfChVdjdEhvbS8fXRgY4EYZihcho/s400/blogger-image-1794740330.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carter's Beach on the south shore of Nova Scotia</td></tr>
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The province of Nova Scotia, where both my husband and I grew up, is an isthmus (almost an island) edged by rugged coastline (and white sand beaches) and surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean - and fog! And all of that coastline is protected by lighthouses.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WpnHDri_cRBAZSSIp2a79YWnfb0wBTaRxfh_MoDOzukPzTW0PJvoeSYQ-3UfcEJWENIE9GvYFRBfPRDwGd7Bng55x0DaUnzYtReWnS5P8KRJ6SVFzicXpyNx2DJg2gqke3V2bof8_ZM/s640/blogger-image--1050264751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WpnHDri_cRBAZSSIp2a79YWnfb0wBTaRxfh_MoDOzukPzTW0PJvoeSYQ-3UfcEJWENIE9GvYFRBfPRDwGd7Bng55x0DaUnzYtReWnS5P8KRJ6SVFzicXpyNx2DJg2gqke3V2bof8_ZM/s400/blogger-image--1050264751.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Probably most famous is the lighthouse at Peggy's Cove, a popular tourist attraction, but also well-known as the site of the crash of Swissair flight 111.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNep7GExLGI_jYTtfyv_tm2Lyoe0ZNPJZt_NtBA9nKXlP6Se-45yNXZgPg9Crmv4rPj0ghU3-swavBiJlcqrWzFnPXpz_-9OGroXdaonwpy0uDVoX0KpFGs-HV28YhubSQAVoYyWAfIzw/s640/blogger-image-2085681659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNep7GExLGI_jYTtfyv_tm2Lyoe0ZNPJZt_NtBA9nKXlP6Se-45yNXZgPg9Crmv4rPj0ghU3-swavBiJlcqrWzFnPXpz_-9OGroXdaonwpy0uDVoX0KpFGs-HV28YhubSQAVoYyWAfIzw/s400/blogger-image-2085681659.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peggy's Cove lighthouse (photo by Edna Bingham)</td></tr>
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F<span style="font-family: inherit;">or centuries Nova Scotia's lighthouses were used to guide and protect sailors, leading them away from rocky shores and dangerous cliffs. For sailors or travellers who had endured many difficult months at sea a lighthouse was a beacon of comfort and brought joy that they were home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a storm</span> the lighthouse may have been the only light. When the skies were too dark and stormy to see the coast, the lighthouse warned that land was near and guided sailors safely home.</div>
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With a history of shipbuilding, fishing, pirates and rum-running, the lighthouse, "standing proudly against the elements," is said to be a symbol of the province's maritime history and spirit.<br />
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In addition to representing "the home of my heart," the lighthouse represents my marriage on my "Always and Forever" bracelet.<br />
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Lighthouses <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMkNR2IQPJmH5jSgtvAHRuRjUdylbrESdEOFQaVw4Gr2L8sIwwlbXYxojpZ9VUYraA2B8vgtRJH4XksPxWFTuF9ezw0X82iYwuY-mhZKyi2613PKT9wmARx8bWhjKhcVj25qe7nINf7E/s640/blogger-image-1610916648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMkNR2IQPJmH5jSgtvAHRuRjUdylbrESdEOFQaVw4Gr2L8sIwwlbXYxojpZ9VUYraA2B8vgtRJH4XksPxWFTuF9ezw0X82iYwuY-mhZKyi2613PKT9wmARx8bWhjKhcVj25qe7nINf7E/s320/blogger-image-1610916648.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lens that magnified and concentrated the beam of light</td></tr>
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are stable structures that have endured many storms, just as a marriage does. The lighthouse keepers worked tirelessly to ensure light for those at sea, saving many lives and bringing sailors home. The lighthouse can represent the persistence, diligence and steadfast determination required to keep a marriage strong. And the lighthouse reminds us that there is always someone out there watching over us.</div>
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The symbolism of the lighthouse so aptly describes many of the attributes of my husband, especially as he provides stability when I struggle with depression. This may sound a little cliche but here goes.<br />
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He reassures me when I'm navigating difficult times.<br />
He gives me light in the midst of darkness<br />
and he reaches out to me when I am drowning.<br />
He keeps me safe when I am in a storm<br />
and he guides me home when I am lost.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The western lighthouse on Brier Island built in 1809</td></tr>
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And finally, the lighthouse reminds me of our honeymoon. The 8-sided Pandora lighthouse dangle resembles this iconic octagonal wooden lighthouse on Brier Island (at the far western end of the province) where we spent our honeymoon hiking and whale-watching - in the fog!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXMuFvD_EXHsOYe3NjyZDNmSJESHvTM89lEJMMIXvnG6LQSnL0qUJNMj2z6lzeU4OwnroID4ABuTCh_twUq4w1ObUVqh8b_eJiBRn7y0bC96oPfBWcsQeSLqeDFQcMJ1JAy1udns5oKs/s640/blogger-image--2088945185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXMuFvD_EXHsOYe3NjyZDNmSJESHvTM89lEJMMIXvnG6LQSnL0qUJNMj2z6lzeU4OwnroID4ABuTCh_twUq4w1ObUVqh8b_eJiBRn7y0bC96oPfBWcsQeSLqeDFQcMJ1JAy1udns5oKs/s640/blogger-image--2088945185.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lighthouse dangle on my Always and Forever bracelet</td></tr>
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<h4>
Related Posts:</h4>
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<a href="https://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/the-lighthouse-part-2-im-higher-up-in.html">The lighthouse part 2 "I'm higher up in the lighthouse"</a> - a story about the importance of the lighthouse when you're battling depression or feeling like you're not getting anywhere.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-38867743571403832262017-06-01T10:41:00.001-04:002017-06-01T13:59:30.266-04:00It's 10 PM - do you know where your children are?In the last week of April, the headline in the local newspaper said there were 28 opioid overdoses just in the previous <em>week</em>. We have been receiving emails about this from our kids' high schools. The public health department and police services have been issuing warnings to the general public (see the flyers at bottom of this post). Teenagers are dying from accidental drug overdoses. It's one of the worst things you can imagine happening to your child. But how do you prevent it?<br />
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At the end of December, the news reported that another teenager from Kanata (one of Ottawa's suburbs) was found - by her parents - dead on her bathroom floor. Her parents soon learned that she'd been using drugs for six months. The authorities suspected that she had overdosed on the counterfeit drugs found in her purse, specifically Percocet painkillers, laced with fentanyl, a potent opioid about 100 times more powerful than morphine. Then there were two more fatal overdoses in Kanata in February.<br />
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Before those February deaths were even in the news, my son said everyone in his school was wearing green to school in memory of a student who had died from a drug overdose the previous day. It was all over social media #greenforchloe. We later found out her name was Chloe Kotval (you can <a href="http://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/chloe-had-a-spark-of-life-in-her-that-was-pure-sunshine-kanata-school-mourns-death-of-teen-in-apparent-overdose">read</a> the newspaper article). She was just 14-years-old. The students at All Saints, Kotval's high school in Kanata, as well as high schools across the city, responded by wearing green, not because the pills are referred to as "greenies," but because it was Kotval’s favourite colour.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ottawasun.com/2017/02/22/these-percs-have-destroyed-kanata-teen-talks-about-deadly-counterfeit-drugs"><em>"These Percs have destroyed Kanata"</em></a><em> Listen to a teen tell his story of being addicted to deadly counterfeit drugs.</em><br />
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It wasn't long after these tragic events that I heard my daughter's best friend Saskia say, "There's a party in Kanata tonight." Saskia now lives in that west-end suburb of Kanata. And all I could think was how grateful I felt that my daughter - <em>and</em> her best friend - were spending their Saturday evening gathered around <em>our</em> dining room table, with friends, playing board games - instead of at that party in Kanata.<br />
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And it's made me realize that this was one of the best parenting decisions we've ever made: we have opened our home to our teenagers' friends every Saturday night.<br />
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Like most parents, we have spoken to our kids about the dangers of doing drugs. But the experts say families must also consider the wider picture. Teens who have strong family attachments and community ties, who connect at school, have strong, positive friendships, social skills and religious or spiritual beliefs may be less likely to experiment with drugs, says Health Canada.<br />
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But there's this insidious problem facing our teens. Their prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that controls decision-making, is not fully developed until they are well into their 20's. This makes them prone to the urge to engage in high-risk behaviours, combined with a sense of invulnerability. In the case of teens experimenting with drugs, just a little mistake can have drastic and long-lasting consequences.<br />
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<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/opiod-addict-now-advocate-1.4127371"><em>"I thought I was invincible"</em></a><em> Read about a teen opioid addict, fresh out of jail, who's goal is to help prevent this in other middle-school kids: "these dangerous drugs aren't being consumed in dark alleys, but inside homes in the sleepy suburbs."</em><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBuTyEsM-tZzAYYZhFzTODgoDzlNdD_BwF_ir-xCGlYdQBEAFjsBXWeGBpESSKXP3Xc5qfgCb6tifwR1zXgTOqcdJ20ImKuio3GeyCS4zpxC9PrS9W7zCSdY-nveAWC6KNaPjtHySVCE/s1600/IMG_5615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBuTyEsM-tZzAYYZhFzTODgoDzlNdD_BwF_ir-xCGlYdQBEAFjsBXWeGBpESSKXP3Xc5qfgCb6tifwR1zXgTOqcdJ20ImKuio3GeyCS4zpxC9PrS9W7zCSdY-nveAWC6KNaPjtHySVCE/s320/IMG_5615.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I like to think that I was an involved parent when our kids were in Elementary School - volunteering in the classroom, reading to kindergarteners, helping with math, setting up for special events, and participating in parent's council. Mike and I even ran a family/parenting program. But it gets harder to stay connected as the kids get older.<br />
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In the Spring of their grade 6 year I enrolled my kids, and a group of their friends, in a program at the local Y. They all came to our house after school and I fed them a healthy snack. Then we took the bus together downtown. Part of the idea was to get them ready for more independence once they were in middle school, as well as learn how to behave on the bus and in the neighbourhood, and find an activity they could do after school that wasn't hanging out at the mall - or on the street corner. The unexpected bonus was that I felt like I got to know the kids much better. I felt "in the loop" and witnessed behaviours and conversations that I would not otherwise have been privy to. This all got me thinking that I wanted to find a way to stay involved as the kids got into the higher grades.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRz0iSLC2Om2WeF3oiehSC4SL8e944h_vlanp6vLetxKBjm5UK8kz7HZuumK9S9B9PVpLOseu41bNVzXyIdXHZGc3HaDK1qL9Ydn8kRPRU9IWF_CpP8MyD3mYx3Wp6tuEBPr-rWSHynF4/s1600/IMG_9221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRz0iSLC2Om2WeF3oiehSC4SL8e944h_vlanp6vLetxKBjm5UK8kz7HZuumK9S9B9PVpLOseu41bNVzXyIdXHZGc3HaDK1qL9Ydn8kRPRU9IWF_CpP8MyD3mYx3Wp6tuEBPr-rWSHynF4/s400/IMG_9221.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How teenagers now spend their time after dinner; 5 kids, 5 iPhones<br />
All electronics go away when it's time to play board games!</td></tr>
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When our twins were 12-years-old and started middle school, it was simply not cool for mom to walk you to school. I really missed visiting with other parents in the school yard, chatting with the teachers, getting to know my kids' friends, and seeing what was happening in the school. Since I couldn't see them <em>at</em> school we decided we would bring the friends and families to us. If the kids are going to "hang out" with their friends, let's have them do it at <em>our</em> house. (I wasn't allowed to call them "play dates" any more.) Thus was born "Games Night at the Hayden's Unplugged" - friends, families, and games, but <em>no electronics</em>.<br />
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Of course in my perfectionist mind, before we could invite people over for Games Night, I had to finish all the decorating, hide the piles of paper, plan and prepare delicious snacks and treats, and make the house "spic-and-span." Then, my ever-brilliant daughter Taylor said, "Can't we just invite our friends?" So <em>*deep breath*</em> I let go of all that planning and decided to <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/12/accept-where-you-are-and-start-where.html">just start</a>!<br />
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For our first "Games Night," Mitchell's then-best-friend Elliot and his father Alan came over. They brought chips and we played an exciting card game of "Cheat," and then a very raucous game of "Pictionary." It was a huge success, and I earned this little silver dice charm for my <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/06/dont-be-afraid-to-let-them-see.html">"True Colours"</a> bracelet. And now Saturday nights are reserved for Games Night.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemNqvziNnGhByWV0UZhynFaQ6R56BDh_rGTvIpQ7p28OWU6dZ3YVDjg6Cu29_QVRe9rDMFYbe-e3_Koq6Ucoj_YHc0xhr-T_-dTlVOLOjPMiroXiV9NFDfkwHqD5Eo0p_x9digHzexEM/s1600/IMG_6297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemNqvziNnGhByWV0UZhynFaQ6R56BDh_rGTvIpQ7p28OWU6dZ3YVDjg6Cu29_QVRe9rDMFYbe-e3_Koq6Ucoj_YHc0xhr-T_-dTlVOLOjPMiroXiV9NFDfkwHqD5Eo0p_x9digHzexEM/s320/IMG_6297.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Zombies</em></strong>, <strong><em>The Game of Life</em></strong>, and <strong><em>Pictionary</em></strong></td></tr>
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We still tell a story from that first Games Night. We were in teams of three, playing Pictionary, and both teams were illustrating the same thing (called an "All Play"). Whichever team guessed first would win the turn. Mitchell's team guessed first and Alan gave them the win. But he discreetly showed me what the card had said. Mitchell's team had successfully guessed "globe" and he'd done a good job drawing the earth and adding a stand to show it was a globe. The problem was, Alan's drawing was completely different, because the actual word, which Mitchell read incorrectly, was "glob" not "globe."<br />
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<span class="hasCaption">To get a feel for what Games Night is like in our house, check out this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/videos/vb.539175730/10154598117360731/?type=3&theater">video</a> on Facebook, taken when the kids were baking cookies for desert. See if you recognize the song.</span><br />
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<span class="hasCaption">This second
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/videos/vb.539175730/10154077861145731/?type=3&theater">video</a>, taken when Mike's Mom was visiting, shows how noisy it can get. The caption says it all: "When you have pizza dinner on Games Night and there are teenagers around the table you just might end up talking about Shakespeare's Twelfth Night or singing Christmas carols - in May."</span><br />
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It's a good thing Taylor convinced me that we should just start Games Night, because otherwise it may never have happened. Despite all the work we have done on our <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/clean-up-with-tea-cup.html">Clean Sweep</a>, our dining room seems to be in a perpetual state of disarray. It is the hub of our home, not just for meals and snacks, but also homework and crafts and projects - school and otherwise. And it is here that we gather round the table for meals and Games Night.<br />
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Originally we did not expect to feed the guests on Games Night, but dinner always seemed to be late and kids would be arriving before we'd eaten. We used to do homemade pizza but we've discovered that the easiest and cheapest way to feed a crowd (anywhere from 2-10 teenagers) is by making a pot of spaghetti and meatballs. (Don't be too impressed we're just heating up store-bought frozen meatballs). We even offer Caesar salad and garlic cheese bread if we are <em>really</em> organized.<br />
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When I was growing up you would always hear this question before the 10 o'clock evening news: "Do you know where your children are?" It was a PSA (Public Service Announcement) on American television, especially in the late 1960's, 70's and 80's. And I'm happy to say that on Saturday nights I <em>do</em> know where my teenaged children are.<br />
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YouTube video of The Simpsons</div>
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Homer Simpson watching the evening news</div>
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"Do you know where your children are?"</div>
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Some parents have asked their teens, "Do Mike and Sheila really want kids in their house every week?" And some feel guilty and insist their kid bring desert or something. Most of the guests are from friendships the kids have maintained since middle school. Some now go to the same high schools as Mitchell and Taylor, but others have moved out of the downtown. One night we had kids from five different high schools scattered across the city. Mike usually makes at least one trip to drive kids home - in the neighbourhood or further out to the 'burbs. And Yes, it <em>is </em>alot of work. But Mike and I gladly give that time and effort. We know that it's a <em>very</em> small price to pay for knowing <em>where </em>- and with <em>whom</em> - our kids are "hanging out." It also gives us the chance to get know our kids' friends, boyfriends or girlfriends. And it gives us the chance to discuss such topics as parties and drinking - and drug overdoses!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span id="goog_319089288"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_319089289"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbnpv6tf9R5fIkyeqNbdRYGIor9u7kJSZhF0uy0TeZ9HfKsY596gvoysU8ziZJqpfkoT-MA6VqT0-0EzQe2A8-KMIFuBbCBRaTBhZyRYMeBmzx8IW8hKxxDqb27kcDOZ5yus1f9xjhgc/s1600/IMG_5683.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbnpv6tf9R5fIkyeqNbdRYGIor9u7kJSZhF0uy0TeZ9HfKsY596gvoysU8ziZJqpfkoT-MA6VqT0-0EzQe2A8-KMIFuBbCBRaTBhZyRYMeBmzx8IW8hKxxDqb27kcDOZ5yus1f9xjhgc/s400/IMG_5683.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dice charm on my "True Colours" bracelet</td></tr>
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<h4>
Related Posts:</h4>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/06/breakfast-most-important-meal-of-day.html">Breakfast - the most important meal of the day, for a different reason</a> - a story about the kind of connectedness that comes from family meals, shown to increase school performance and self-esteem, and <i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue Light", HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">decrease</span></i> rates of depression and substance abuse.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/05/sing-sing-out-loud.html">Sing. Sing out loud...</a> - a story about o<span style="font-family: inherit;">ne of the best pieces of parenting advice I've ever received, from someone who was not even a parent. This is one of my favourite lessons learned from Taylor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/10/this-thanksgiving-develop-attitude-of.html">This Thanksgiving develop an attitude of gratitude</a> - a story about how keeping a Gratitude Journal has had a huge impact on my mental health and why I recommend parents teach this to their children. You can also read how science explains why celebrating "unforgettable moments" with Pandora actually does make you happier.</span><br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/05/do-my-kids-know-they-are-my-hearts.html">Do my kids know they are my "treasured hearts"?</a> - a story about my Ah-ha moment - and Oprah's Ah-ha moment - about the message we give our kids and the muranos that help remind me of how important it is.<br />
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Photo Gallery of our Family's Favourite Games<br />(and explanations)</h4>
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My mother-in-law gives us money every year for Christmas and one of the things we always buy is a new board game, from Grammie. Sometimes Santa even adds a smaller game in the kids' <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/01/on-fourth-day-of-christmas-pandora-gave.html">stockings</a>. <br />
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We received <strong><em>Anomia </em></strong>for Christmas 2015 and have played it almost every Saturday since. Anomia means "the inability to name objects or to recognize the written or spoken names of objects." This happens when someone has a stroke, but it also happens when you are competing to see who is the first to name something in a category like South American country, type of apple, or toothpaste brand - especially when each of you is naming something different. This game gets loud but is SO much fun!<br />
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The <em><strong>5-Second Rule</strong></em> has nothing to do with how long a piece of food has been on the floor. It is a pretty simple game. There's a timer that makes a silly noise when you turn it over and you only have 5 seconds to list three things in the category on the card. I was very confident one time when asked to "Name three insects." I threw out a rapid-fire "mosquito, house fly and spider plant." Don't ask me why I added the "plant" - it just came out! The kids told me they wouldn't have accepted "spider" anyway because spiders are arachnoids not insects - when did they get so smart? If the first person answers in time they are given the card with the question. If you don't answer in time the next person gets to steal it, the trick being they can not repeat an answer that someone else has used. It goes around the table and if nobody steals it the original guesser gets the card. The person with the most cards at the end wins the game. One time "Name three Julia Roberts movies" went the whole way around the table with nobody being able to list three that hadn't already been named. When the card said, "Name three Tom Hanks movies," we all struggled until one girl said, "Toy Story 1, Toy Story 2, and Toy Story 3." Boo-ya!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEh0Y9-fSYEqvpi0O6bmp0cSh1ChPyCuoCaNOV_Dbw7FCvG56Y1LdG2ecItpNJl1ebMLHC7r9vfOZH_rEA6gtJb41RzVr4GGEpBKomXMuNWqSduZi6W5ZnHxfs1jJWbJIAjAGeeZtMB2g/s1600/IMG_5418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEh0Y9-fSYEqvpi0O6bmp0cSh1ChPyCuoCaNOV_Dbw7FCvG56Y1LdG2ecItpNJl1ebMLHC7r9vfOZH_rEA6gtJb41RzVr4GGEpBKomXMuNWqSduZi6W5ZnHxfs1jJWbJIAjAGeeZtMB2g/s320/IMG_5418.JPG" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apples to Apples</td></tr>
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In <em><strong>Apples to Apples</strong></em>, everyone takes a turn being the judge. The judge picks a green card from the top of the pile and chooses from one of the two words on that card. Then the other players pick a red card from their hand that they think best fits the word on that card. Sometimes it's serious, like when Taylor had the word "courageous" and I submitted the answer "Ann Frank" - everyone said "Whoa." Other times when the judge reads out the answers they are pretty funny or ironic. In this case I had the adjective "Scary" and these were the six submissions (above). Which would you choose?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Flip-a-gram of Telestrations:</div>
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"That moment when you hands meet in the popcorn" -</div>
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How we went from "holding hands" to "corn soup"<br />
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One of our favourite games is <strong><em>Teletrations</em></strong>. It's kind of a cross between Pictionary and the telephone game where you whisper a story in someone's ear, then they tell the next person, and so on. In this case you get a word or phrase and draw a picture of it. The next person, looking only at your picture, guesses what it is, the next person draws what's been written, and so on, til it gets back to you. Then everyone takes turns showing the results, which are usually pretty hilarious!<br />
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See if you can guess what these illustrations were supposed to be:</div>
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(answers below)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65ffg9k1E_SRKnxSddgH4E8NWILX3rebyy1NGKzTMiZkMZjCvJeYIg40wMPvSt9Tb7FZlvNvPhQhxa_VScU8_KdiIG-i3oY4IZp9K83ZQ0UdBmODn6z71oqn7lsGnRXzJPIQSf-plq8E/s1600/IMG_9226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65ffg9k1E_SRKnxSddgH4E8NWILX3rebyy1NGKzTMiZkMZjCvJeYIg40wMPvSt9Tb7FZlvNvPhQhxa_VScU8_KdiIG-i3oY4IZp9K83ZQ0UdBmODn6z71oqn7lsGnRXzJPIQSf-plq8E/s320/IMG_9226.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">B.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOGt_WCF4M-TtvEmVw_4lwjsytbSTw6Il1eBV0B5q58pxmR9H0da5RFXGe46nabLIsE6NDfdDDstaQ57T6W6FmIWkjrNsud2tUjyDyvLIZLmnoEPf6JjF3BgrHCLakwtg9MVZCpfIRp1s/s1600/IMG_5390.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXlaS-O7KCD4GmfmBh8iwMOkvfzyIVfsUho0iDtbiB7iXdMEoPoFUwWeYhp8cq5b_lp_11lLf1VLQ9vpCx7vPVg7IagZp9iMbcgWu4OxQVPQwSE8AOVEP9JelWVTx8ck2Awwln0Qb8Y0/s1600/IMG_4127.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXlaS-O7KCD4GmfmBh8iwMOkvfzyIVfsUho0iDtbiB7iXdMEoPoFUwWeYhp8cq5b_lp_11lLf1VLQ9vpCx7vPVg7IagZp9iMbcgWu4OxQVPQwSE8AOVEP9JelWVTx8ck2Awwln0Qb8Y0/s400/IMG_4127.PNG" width="338" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of laughing with this team of girls playing <strong><em>Pictionary</em></strong><br />
(my daughter Taylor is on the left)</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzUC3ulSnEQ7faGAEtm3MP2fD6Ccr4AQsIKp6b5-eRMRpTE5OQTyzwDE7zg5uchKva_VsD2GJKOGq7C055oob2T84MJ-S_Ec7kljpFulTApv3jxeDZIWdzEbTbfISicZAFHdncJJwXek/s1600/12140833_10153596913105731_5924635279684771543_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzUC3ulSnEQ7faGAEtm3MP2fD6Ccr4AQsIKp6b5-eRMRpTE5OQTyzwDE7zg5uchKva_VsD2GJKOGq7C055oob2T84MJ-S_Ec7kljpFulTApv3jxeDZIWdzEbTbfISicZAFHdncJJwXek/s320/12140833_10153596913105731_5924635279684771543_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After an evening of <em><strong>Uno</strong></em> my cheeks hurt from laughing so much<br />
(My husband and kids are <em>big</em> fans of The Simpsons)</td></tr>
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Answers to <strong><em>Telestrations </em></strong>examples:<br />
A. barn owl<br />
B. rain forest<br />
C. North Pole<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ75hbdClWzLttCLLrOpuuSMJsIt5CIDCCjKicSDz4xyeQ6nkNcqfigZ_kS2ImLbyGHVgXHpIAA5wNcf56k2DHooMd-LwdRKQpjr9FUG6aFiLnsZzpipcIyhv1EMG3IHKx2t6-H96BSJE/s1600/P8270045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ75hbdClWzLttCLLrOpuuSMJsIt5CIDCCjKicSDz4xyeQ6nkNcqfigZ_kS2ImLbyGHVgXHpIAA5wNcf56k2DHooMd-LwdRKQpjr9FUG6aFiLnsZzpipcIyhv1EMG3IHKx2t6-H96BSJE/s400/P8270045.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our basement "Before"<br />
See the empty shelves on the far right?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmyhIcJPkyCCY2VUi4-PWqnBmX1ffWti-9DMz06Ytn06y7N-lf7bpAqUyXSt1b_akBh87X4zqmmCdkeeSFVtfvJnrxVpgU-e87BjNV-tx3ijqM01YPItJV5iUyXJgpfXFRgNQ7CMNMkJ0/s1600/IMG_5744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmyhIcJPkyCCY2VUi4-PWqnBmX1ffWti-9DMz06Ytn06y7N-lf7bpAqUyXSt1b_akBh87X4zqmmCdkeeSFVtfvJnrxVpgU-e87BjNV-tx3ijqM01YPItJV5iUyXJgpfXFRgNQ7CMNMkJ0/s400/IMG_5744.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sneak peek at the basement "After"<br />
The now-organized shelves of board games</td></tr>
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Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-69072186552989494442017-04-18T10:26:00.001-04:002017-04-18T11:01:58.480-04:00The maple leaf for making memories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCr7t6XQx5hyphenhyphenL7YFKvenEoUPXo2A3oj-jidgcfQ69oUkYoNjBsqKC0kuyRalkrXk9Jj0noyzf0kh9hDLUWtXEvHg9qWb59o4gjl2ookiWqtMzoZl3rth0ifEJHcvP8nMWuJBk0ncLN-bk/s1600/IMG_4838.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCr7t6XQx5hyphenhyphenL7YFKvenEoUPXo2A3oj-jidgcfQ69oUkYoNjBsqKC0kuyRalkrXk9Jj0noyzf0kh9hDLUWtXEvHg9qWb59o4gjl2ookiWqtMzoZl3rth0ifEJHcvP8nMWuJBk0ncLN-bk/s320/IMG_4838.PNG" width="269" /></a></div>
You might expect me to have the maple leaf charm because I'm Canadian, or to represent Canada Day which is celebrated in July. But on <em>my</em> bracelet this charm has a special meaning for a special family tradition, in the not-so-special month of March.<br />
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March always seems like a very long month, especially in our neck of the woods, where winter typically starts in November and is still going strong in March. While my Facebook <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/12/sending-love-and-christmas-cheer-around.html">friends</a> from around the world were posting beautiful photos of daffodils and cherry blossoms, it was not so beautiful here where the remaining piles of snow were just brown and dirty. In March things here are usually frozen and we inevitably get snow. It is one of the hardest months for me, when it feels like winter will never let up. In a previous <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/01/on-seventh-day-of-christmas-pandora.html">post</a> I shared one of my strategies for beating the winter blues. Another thing that helps is looking forward to our annual family vacation during the last week of March - and a tradition that is unique to this part of Canada.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTTcXOBFRfL66YoATj__WD3as4zYA8HKmk23fJ1D85gmApIiR2LkcYVVrGo73acRUp3prCY7st6niJJRpRmnuZj8DdRK7NrbZqlxZbvsYf4NVyolthYd-tO16V89YY2nS7qNGsQa6YHc/s1600/Calabogie+sign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTTcXOBFRfL66YoATj__WD3as4zYA8HKmk23fJ1D85gmApIiR2LkcYVVrGo73acRUp3prCY7st6niJJRpRmnuZj8DdRK7NrbZqlxZbvsYf4NVyolthYd-tO16V89YY2nS7qNGsQa6YHc/s320/Calabogie+sign.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to the Calabogie Lodge Resort</td></tr>
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When we were in our twenties my husband Mike and I bought a timeshare for a week at the end of March at the Calabogie Lodge Resort just west of Ottawa. At the time we envisioned exchanging our timeshare week for other destinations and travelling the world. Now we just travel an hour down the highway and check in at the lodge for a family retreat. It's a week full of activities, movies, games, and lots and lots of laughter.<br />
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We first brought our kids to Calabogie when they were just four months old. The kids slept in playpens and my mom slept on the pull-out couch. The kids eventually graduated to the pull-out couch, while Mike and I slept in the bedroom upstairs.<br />
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Mike didn't always stay the whole week. Some years he went back to work and stayed in Ottawa. Other years he just drove into the city for his Monday night basketball game. But the kids and I kept ourselves busy. We baked and we did crafts and even science experiments.<br />
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We spent lots of time outdoors. When there was snow we went snowshoeing or skiing. We took long walks through the town, exploring along the side of the river, and hiking through the woods.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjufKk_DYnzGWwEc8ofuoI2pt3yFgp6p50E6Iti2zvIoK2ik3hI7SZ9Ij2-f1bISEz2MsiRsAxbnsYgtN24BQVOViq9dxJGrxprgjHoostL7H2E0AQXRiuMmIahjr47UltkcnnFVNE4_JE/s1600/P1010051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjufKk_DYnzGWwEc8ofuoI2pt3yFgp6p50E6Iti2zvIoK2ik3hI7SZ9Ij2-f1bISEz2MsiRsAxbnsYgtN24BQVOViq9dxJGrxprgjHoostL7H2E0AQXRiuMmIahjr47UltkcnnFVNE4_JE/s320/P1010051.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring essentials in Canada:<br />
waterproof splash pants and fleece-lined raincoats</td></tr>
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One year Mitchell found a big rock buried on the sandy beach. He spent days patiently digging it out of the sand. He wanted to bring it home but it was too heavy for him to lift so he called Daddy and asked him to bring a hammer and nails from home. He built a box out of firewood, and attached a rope so he could drag it back to our unit.<br />
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We swam every day - sometimes twice a day - and played lots of water games. It was always amazing to see how much the kids' swimming improved when they swam every day for a week.<br />
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Some years Easter would fall in the last week of March. The kids would have to follow the clues to find a few small gifts left by the Easter bunny. And there would be Cadbury mini chocolate Easter eggs everywhere in our unit - hidden in the most unusual locations. Taylor enjoyed the Easter egg hunt so much that she would ask to have the egg hunt at Calabogie, even if it wasn't Easter. Even though our twins are 15 now, they still love an egg hunt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizV8eT3PoiKRffmu8Tp_1kwQ5ObYYzcS7Bq_bHVktThL3_q3tW86aAT3VZp8CFmo60g9S9tvdFIBj8UfBVx2zbhUBtTjZ2Kkni8PlTh5VGsXdLxaPqHJDl4zHrkMgQ8EW8LV0Gmj9R8rg/s1600/Calabogie+Lodge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizV8eT3PoiKRffmu8Tp_1kwQ5ObYYzcS7Bq_bHVktThL3_q3tW86aAT3VZp8CFmo60g9S9tvdFIBj8UfBVx2zbhUBtTjZ2Kkni8PlTh5VGsXdLxaPqHJDl4zHrkMgQ8EW8LV0Gmj9R8rg/s320/Calabogie+Lodge.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our unit is right along the water's edge</td></tr>
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When we arrived this year, we were surprised to discover that the spiral staircase in our unit had been replaced (see photos below). The spiral staircase had provided hours of entertainment over the years. When the kids were babies we hung the Jolly Jumper from the stairs. As they got older they would use couch cushions and blankets to build forts under the stairs. Taylor even liked to sit on them to eat her lunch or snacks.<br />
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When I asked Mitchell what were his favourite things about our annual vacation at Calabogie, he first mentioned swimming. The second thing was getting to watch the Family Channel. We did not have cable when the kids were younger and they weren't allowed to watch TV during the school week, so watching TV was a special treat for them. We also didn't have video games at home so Mitchell was pretty excited when they installed one in the Games Room at the lodge. In the last few years much of our time has been spent playing in the Games Room with foozball, air hockey and ping pong. And last year Mike taught us all how to play pool.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVFqU007CkkD6TVwKm6w4It3oqgyTSrSFN73P6uVB28AyMVxet3uoLxVHtV3s2InkNB-SvMNAHJcSnIQgBLzJDjPV81ykfMR7FWeOFszWJ82emOyFP2ODH3w3p0CmYML3-HLc-Lf9fNs/s1600/Games+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVFqU007CkkD6TVwKm6w4It3oqgyTSrSFN73P6uVB28AyMVxet3uoLxVHtV3s2InkNB-SvMNAHJcSnIQgBLzJDjPV81ykfMR7FWeOFszWJ82emOyFP2ODH3w3p0CmYML3-HLc-Lf9fNs/s640/Games+Collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taylor victorious on the foozball table</td></tr>
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Check out this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/videos/vb.539175730/10153923602140731/?type=3&theater">video</a> (on my Facebook page) of my crazy husband Mike trying to distract Taylor while playing pool. You can also see a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sheila.holmes.52/videos/vb.539175730/10153919927020731/?type=3&theater">video</a> of what I was doing that had Mike literally rolling on the floor laughing at me!<br />
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The Spring of 2015 was a difficult time for me. I had just finished six months of intensive schema-focused therapy and was still feeling pretty overwhelmed by emotions. I really had to push myself to focus and get organized and ready to go to Calabogie, so I rewarded myself with the maple leaf charm just for making it happen.<br />
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Last year (2016) was the end of an era in our family. The kids started high school (grade 9) and didn't think they should miss a week of school, so they were only at Calabogie for a long weekend; I stayed the rest of the week by myself. With the kids in different high schools, with different friends, and participating in different sports, it's nice to see them having fun together and valuing this family time.<br />
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I sometimes feel guilty that we can't afford to travel the world with our kids, but I'm starting to see that these simple pleasures and shared experiences are what builds family strength and lasting memories.<br />
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Please take a stroll through the photo gallery below to see photos from our years at Calabogie. You can also watch Mike tell one of my all-time favourite stories about Mitchell - and find out why the maple leaf in particular represents our annual family retreat and a uniquely Canadian Springtime tradition.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Family Photo Gallery</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmrJiSRfBfLboXmXwA0w2_p4k4m9HVesVvWYLlreEgWIwR8ztPjQ7Hu9KG3MLX4JRnwjaHMgs-Y9UsrWrONAjRPTaz_6dVhiaONCCbR5YpmYdPLjbdW896OC84lHuqsRMqIEe2twD8H8/s1600/Polar+Bear+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmrJiSRfBfLboXmXwA0w2_p4k4m9HVesVvWYLlreEgWIwR8ztPjQ7Hu9KG3MLX4JRnwjaHMgs-Y9UsrWrONAjRPTaz_6dVhiaONCCbR5YpmYdPLjbdW896OC84lHuqsRMqIEe2twD8H8/s400/Polar+Bear+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">posing with the polar bear in the main lodge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9I3oKAFY31eByIaGG9GkbRSwfcCQHRMHxtkFqEcYHXitmBm2BX8eyD4DRGP2jPpmJ0c3ReQPoR31onC88C_GxBAWkVmkk0_pP208yJs_fki9jJn7oBnQ4nv62IBm3E_IklS7HLc-Yz0k/s1600/Mitchell+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9I3oKAFY31eByIaGG9GkbRSwfcCQHRMHxtkFqEcYHXitmBm2BX8eyD4DRGP2jPpmJ0c3ReQPoR31onC88C_GxBAWkVmkk0_pP208yJs_fki9jJn7oBnQ4nv62IBm3E_IklS7HLc-Yz0k/s400/Mitchell+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana Verna with Mitchell (4 months old)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtBOPc_Eho9iL_lFGZborrnAkTIDVsLj52_C-w4m_qIgNalkNrI90fmJAcK0CoOGpMFKAw6Sbx9iw42yv9MnoqblltRoJ9PhOYvBUkdODkpp0EBouYxmNMwj9QQI0YMLF8dQPRm1JXY4/s1600/Taylor++Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtBOPc_Eho9iL_lFGZborrnAkTIDVsLj52_C-w4m_qIgNalkNrI90fmJAcK0CoOGpMFKAw6Sbx9iw42yv9MnoqblltRoJ9PhOYvBUkdODkpp0EBouYxmNMwj9QQI0YMLF8dQPRm1JXY4/s400/Taylor++Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy with Taylor (4 months old)</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTpyn5bH3k89X8Ar-nX5_w2WudiU2Sp4zNvhvRDpb4251UjTh98iS9_OYB1zcsxp-hGpGwGTYAGiDPwG1b8ugLDCMZPlzsJ5ePkNrTVl4Geb1t2AD3BSdwrc1GXnP8AFzsxyHGvoMEPc/s1600/Lifejackets+2+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTpyn5bH3k89X8Ar-nX5_w2WudiU2Sp4zNvhvRDpb4251UjTh98iS9_OYB1zcsxp-hGpGwGTYAGiDPwG1b8ugLDCMZPlzsJ5ePkNrTVl4Geb1t2AD3BSdwrc1GXnP8AFzsxyHGvoMEPc/s400/Lifejackets+2+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xkwzPiTMwhvy38p60aYrMofm6B0O1PxaDEiJ9oPwuX5_WAtFA65SQA4p08nTUWtj27W7X7-3O98EuhuYZLiZCxpdk9AtRSSi_8AEIpArn4VFnDsgQw7ML39ZqNkKuQUlwFykYv7mDPo/s1600/Taylor+Calabogie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xkwzPiTMwhvy38p60aYrMofm6B0O1PxaDEiJ9oPwuX5_WAtFA65SQA4p08nTUWtj27W7X7-3O98EuhuYZLiZCxpdk9AtRSSi_8AEIpArn4VFnDsgQw7ML39ZqNkKuQUlwFykYv7mDPo/s320/Taylor+Calabogie.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6-sVhkzMSF7gV5LmTP0NSAehaDOUFJaEmQews75duhPywJ0XahjlEODrrafp8P2_HmTN2lyx-rAhcrOznYofsftdPdVc3c08_wjqqy0rXnxaZ1PIGayMmqz2XCr42hbPhb6JTaw3wgw/s1600/P1010070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6-sVhkzMSF7gV5LmTP0NSAehaDOUFJaEmQews75duhPywJ0XahjlEODrrafp8P2_HmTN2lyx-rAhcrOznYofsftdPdVc3c08_wjqqy0rXnxaZ1PIGayMmqz2XCr42hbPhb6JTaw3wgw/s320/P1010070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95riclrIxFU8oqRhuU_KwEvTmkncwfl7CirNG4ra7qQMQhVi47XauUULGFNgJYEoneNQEovE9S8KzBHCWqZ7sOZYASxVZrcMx8WIxn_AhsgTyV-4WL1GApAkhuXCRdfyYmfbIL-s4fAk/s1600/Goggles+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95riclrIxFU8oqRhuU_KwEvTmkncwfl7CirNG4ra7qQMQhVi47XauUULGFNgJYEoneNQEovE9S8KzBHCWqZ7sOZYASxVZrcMx8WIxn_AhsgTyV-4WL1GApAkhuXCRdfyYmfbIL-s4fAk/s400/Goggles+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCSLA7qXRKG2V0gGcCggUrvLkj7Tw7hEy_K3Q0T5sXk8-qMnm8wTIdJMxvfWzsRR4yPDJWAw1W-YDig3QrBhcN8YyxFJyH_wtrJO6ssEYuKCMLIx6N9-ylLtKoSwacL6_8ZLTQvLMYgmQ/s1600/rock+huggers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCSLA7qXRKG2V0gGcCggUrvLkj7Tw7hEy_K3Q0T5sXk8-qMnm8wTIdJMxvfWzsRR4yPDJWAw1W-YDig3QrBhcN8YyxFJyH_wtrJO6ssEYuKCMLIx6N9-ylLtKoSwacL6_8ZLTQvLMYgmQ/s320/rock+huggers.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rock-huggers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYT1S5S6cEhawJT3giMEUIfZbd0yPhuXr_oRTh4chjOpj1G0HB-qq50DLqC0wKFWIshfdF-VztflNjcjZ5WgPt8ViwTAVhxbXyVX2Gm4EOTgX5P5u20JJTfeyGhxeVzU03f4-bQ8oWkCA/s1600/lookout+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYT1S5S6cEhawJT3giMEUIfZbd0yPhuXr_oRTh4chjOpj1G0HB-qq50DLqC0wKFWIshfdF-VztflNjcjZ5WgPt8ViwTAVhxbXyVX2Gm4EOTgX5P5u20JJTfeyGhxeVzU03f4-bQ8oWkCA/s320/lookout+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pretending to be explorers</td></tr>
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Flip-a-gram of Mitchell climbing the rocks (on YouTube)</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/b07oOHT9BZo/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b07oOHT9BZo?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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Flip-a-gram of Taylor climbing the rocks (on YouTube)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">colouring the path with sidewalk chalk</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ready for rollerblading and road hockey on the tennis courts</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hiking and climbing in the woods</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImW2fwOb1sgNDOs_TSYvukhefyBKS7cWiRQU9XfUtHv14NVIkWTpoQyxS2kW5aoxG-ivzjthI0vOwGSq2_sp6GMRLN1oRO5itBj2L5NCaajRzZaz93DAkvwa9q98BZXM114L7Zqaz6as/s1600/Chipmunk+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImW2fwOb1sgNDOs_TSYvukhefyBKS7cWiRQU9XfUtHv14NVIkWTpoQyxS2kW5aoxG-ivzjthI0vOwGSq2_sp6GMRLN1oRO5itBj2L5NCaajRzZaz93DAkvwa9q98BZXM114L7Zqaz6as/s400/Chipmunk+Collage.jpg" width="381" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">feeding the local wildlife</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the kids were in charge of making lunches</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyi_gigfWr-TrC_AmEtBi7LQuGb4qjQ_WgurtFLkXgksbWlNUlCFoeToHiPU_obOThLfEgKw7aUUyGiCiWOq8bWKXxpGYlDAsH3suLe2vk4U42Yt-xA4ezJwCAJpsDsJusPmqekCMLPRQ/s1600/mike+and+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyi_gigfWr-TrC_AmEtBi7LQuGb4qjQ_WgurtFLkXgksbWlNUlCFoeToHiPU_obOThLfEgKw7aUUyGiCiWOq8bWKXxpGYlDAsH3suLe2vk4U42Yt-xA4ezJwCAJpsDsJusPmqekCMLPRQ/s320/mike+and+I.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike and I on the couch, when it's not the kids' bed</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4WyRe3XsYe-Pex7IgF-1XkzKlfy_E4_tBgMnNoFETyFtO72dN5_yapgSYL_qX7oa7Xs7nknm8CC_VuzqYvH-UlI2wB0X1O7fb-vGKaIq9cTksgnWb1Yo_lrPYUUX8f0pi5TSlTEbOik/s1600/reading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4WyRe3XsYe-Pex7IgF-1XkzKlfy_E4_tBgMnNoFETyFtO72dN5_yapgSYL_qX7oa7Xs7nknm8CC_VuzqYvH-UlI2wB0X1O7fb-vGKaIq9cTksgnWb1Yo_lrPYUUX8f0pi5TSlTEbOik/s320/reading.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">reading comics on the pull-out couch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClnA-AsqXJBhq4axWuc07M9jORY0fJ7Hl9rMFbYvZkoxTDnAf4jxwqnbVS7Co83Lbc15uainPoxEUVIsPfR8gjZ0PaB_cHP2sDK7lzqpu1AaDev00bGHyXR5ASOKz_Iw1A7D0aVHBwpI/s1600/T+on+stairs+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClnA-AsqXJBhq4axWuc07M9jORY0fJ7Hl9rMFbYvZkoxTDnAf4jxwqnbVS7Co83Lbc15uainPoxEUVIsPfR8gjZ0PaB_cHP2sDK7lzqpu1AaDev00bGHyXR5ASOKz_Iw1A7D0aVHBwpI/s320/T+on+stairs+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taylor posing on the indoor play structure, aka the spiral staircase</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczf8OtjgPyt2wBHQYiYCZ1__7W14oFy-48gxuxJQeMyQ6_mvg-s4tkitX5SfGLkESkPNxM1JarbKnSMU19cdKgfepwn-q2rUzR49a8A3ghkceU5zBqa2GFP_kCUXslbl54Wp21lmFyvo/s1600/hanging+from+the+stairs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczf8OtjgPyt2wBHQYiYCZ1__7W14oFy-48gxuxJQeMyQ6_mvg-s4tkitX5SfGLkESkPNxM1JarbKnSMU19cdKgfepwn-q2rUzR49a8A3ghkceU5zBqa2GFP_kCUXslbl54Wp21lmFyvo/s320/hanging+from+the+stairs.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taylor liked to climb the spiral staircase, on the outside</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
YouTube video of Mike telling the story about Mitchell and the spiral staircase.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/UDS4lFxQdNc/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UDS4lFxQdNc?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4AU1IvT4bJBEWJL-AOCXPEYmVJUgsCYt60F86OzIsh6sYnUiibR7jH6YlbJHYdTmBSyAc32WETcbOLtU1FJS7rj8JZfbAgNXFw24zPAjY6Ki5BlGhx6BNW2k-87wyelNcilVBD_p2WOY/s1600/11079665_10153129594325731_7632730231008121839_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4AU1IvT4bJBEWJL-AOCXPEYmVJUgsCYt60F86OzIsh6sYnUiibR7jH6YlbJHYdTmBSyAc32WETcbOLtU1FJS7rj8JZfbAgNXFw24zPAjY6Ki5BlGhx6BNW2k-87wyelNcilVBD_p2WOY/s320/11079665_10153129594325731_7632730231008121839_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is a beach at the resort, and a ski hill across the lake</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsruQDdGh2CZ5WERCzIH3f_US8NexDtWiyikKWWiutqX0RVGvAoFrBIwZSkI-HnqDJKRPDEbPdqKbKK7Z_uovbGht1qm5o80cZOsx2U2pqEwBPmpEUwmXzS_pZT6JZzICa2pazJf5CTc/s1600/IMG_0207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsruQDdGh2CZ5WERCzIH3f_US8NexDtWiyikKWWiutqX0RVGvAoFrBIwZSkI-HnqDJKRPDEbPdqKbKK7Z_uovbGht1qm5o80cZOsx2U2pqEwBPmpEUwmXzS_pZT6JZzICa2pazJf5CTc/s320/IMG_0207.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">roasting marshmallows in a bonfire on the beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvlOmBif9mF-xnyUgLJS8QBpD_3MXOJo61-ow65Y8GdOqT_y3MT9UV9vOj_Tc5ByDlgICga-cXqUsOoqgpKH78sj83K9BHpcrlAFvNbMBLQw-IXye9NiJ7R43cLvZ6I0XHGMAsGLVQMIQ/s1600/the+beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvlOmBif9mF-xnyUgLJS8QBpD_3MXOJo61-ow65Y8GdOqT_y3MT9UV9vOj_Tc5ByDlgICga-cXqUsOoqgpKH78sj83K9BHpcrlAFvNbMBLQw-IXye9NiJ7R43cLvZ6I0XHGMAsGLVQMIQ/s400/the+beach.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">exploring at the beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyG3JLapfF0JXDBvp0h26PuqqJVxh9bDa8bivLMVqojvL8W2zaJ79S9C8FFBYhdryqdwJpozzU1_NfnHdVJS4Fz8Xk5CaIejmY3CTgPzOmrLBHthgs52VN3pSqj4Cuhqn3_sGH4HBl6E/s1600/Playground+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyG3JLapfF0JXDBvp0h26PuqqJVxh9bDa8bivLMVqojvL8W2zaJ79S9C8FFBYhdryqdwJpozzU1_NfnHdVJS4Fz8Xk5CaIejmY3CTgPzOmrLBHthgs52VN3pSqj4Cuhqn3_sGH4HBl6E/s400/Playground+Collage.jpg" width="381" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playing on the play structure at the beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYmiB7nIOSNRadB0YIeqkGSA8hLxJcT35rg7NqIPlKicdwY_OQptwhygTXVoC2Ds5TtKbgwsWG5r80N-QlN8EYkB3AIc4b84K50LiwNjywbe5oS5Gd2mGUbm2OEFUEaZq1w7a6OUTTxg/s1600/snowshoeing+Calabogie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYmiB7nIOSNRadB0YIeqkGSA8hLxJcT35rg7NqIPlKicdwY_OQptwhygTXVoC2Ds5TtKbgwsWG5r80N-QlN8EYkB3AIc4b84K50LiwNjywbe5oS5Gd2mGUbm2OEFUEaZq1w7a6OUTTxg/s320/snowshoeing+Calabogie.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">snowshoeing in the woods</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKiykF1gaQovGRR1Dkii-SG4wK34_xSWx3JF7jOs9XSADYfA1C7bhQYTvoMWiS8a6Nn26qV4C2HhffPZ76MohsGBk2GZJ6_kkEMzr8IptdtJRRD-LFb5cH69xz-qMyXgkfzsVSKOPyOQ/s1600/TubingCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKiykF1gaQovGRR1Dkii-SG4wK34_xSWx3JF7jOs9XSADYfA1C7bhQYTvoMWiS8a6Nn26qV4C2HhffPZ76MohsGBk2GZJ6_kkEMzr8IptdtJRRD-LFb5cH69xz-qMyXgkfzsVSKOPyOQ/s400/TubingCollage.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tubing at Calabogie Peaks</td></tr>
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<div align="center">
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXQ0MvRr40HKA3G9GnSTaszXQY1v9lejyi9o5o9DwdveNMq-hHYVJg2Abzx2IxrdTsEwJ4IB7S1gNoDJbjL8YotsjkhOmiCNJSqzlR99eb_knVuWn-UrN50EzDl8DsxrZGgu_upakUiw/s1600/Skiing+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXQ0MvRr40HKA3G9GnSTaszXQY1v9lejyi9o5o9DwdveNMq-hHYVJg2Abzx2IxrdTsEwJ4IB7S1gNoDJbjL8YotsjkhOmiCNJSqzlR99eb_knVuWn-UrN50EzDl8DsxrZGgu_upakUiw/s400/Skiing+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">downhill skiing at Calabogie Peaks</td></tr>
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Our week of vacation always ends with a trip to the "sugar shack." This is an activity unique to this part of the Canada. When the temperature is above the freezing point during the day, but still below freezing at night, the sap starts to flow in sugar maple trees. The aboriginals would hollow out a wooden log, fill it with sap from maple trees and add hot rocks to boil it down to make syrup. These techniques were taught to the early settlers in this region who made use of metal buckets and pots. And because you need to boil the sap as soon as it's harvested they would build a shack right there in the woods - hence the term "sugar shack."<br />
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When we go to the sugar shack, we hike the trails, learning how they collect the sap (now with plastic tubing) and reading interpretive signs about wildlife in the sugarbush (groves of sugar maple trees). We learned that 85% of the world's maple syrup is made in Canada, most of it in the province of Quebec just east of our city of Ottawa. Although I didn't grow up going to the sugar shack, it is a common activity with friends and family in this part of the country and a memorable tradition for us. And it certainly is a bright spot in an otherwise dreary month of March.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGjjY9IXlMghN3xQbgQUrTE7Ctq4Ytb3w0QAl1HvSo1_OYVYkfA6hF23AC2q5-T3MrTuxMx6ocQ2bfK3Ae3n_1VCYTG9FJBn1xTt_hzjOkP_yoPM6pYaxwE5rw95gdF18ZNCstEv-D4U/s1600/Maple+Syrup+2+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGjjY9IXlMghN3xQbgQUrTE7Ctq4Ytb3w0QAl1HvSo1_OYVYkfA6hF23AC2q5-T3MrTuxMx6ocQ2bfK3Ae3n_1VCYTG9FJBn1xTt_hzjOkP_yoPM6pYaxwE5rw95gdF18ZNCstEv-D4U/s400/Maple+Syrup+2+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the old-fashioned way to collect sap with buckets and then boil it down to syrup</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_J_oCioyy8Q7IkJtnCPOLcoOzMSPamTFX51eMffyukB2tz5s7XL3G9uVNuFIRJqyPHPJBgsWpeOSFM3sgFjK2_m0QmgSkjbKt04w90FF3V0pFJyb8gpKhLtvQL8WtEiHoCmPykHY5VU/s1600/Window+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_J_oCioyy8Q7IkJtnCPOLcoOzMSPamTFX51eMffyukB2tz5s7XL3G9uVNuFIRJqyPHPJBgsWpeOSFM3sgFjK2_m0QmgSkjbKt04w90FF3V0pFJyb8gpKhLtvQL8WtEiHoCmPykHY5VU/s400/Window+Collage.jpg" width="347" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">being silly in the rustic play fort</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpzQWwRsdUp55ojgDsF5JiqtJCetXOFxjUM7FhjIkA6Sk_RhNtO8oHKgdvnIUisaT8QjLxD13Lh4kyuD8dnyk0xi5QXZcG92ZBnxMNrMmXXqq3DWDq2-e9kOiKmNPJWWukQGdYZZ0Fk4/s1600/Pancake+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="347" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpzQWwRsdUp55ojgDsF5JiqtJCetXOFxjUM7FhjIkA6Sk_RhNtO8oHKgdvnIUisaT8QjLxD13Lh4kyuD8dnyk0xi5QXZcG92ZBnxMNrMmXXqq3DWDq2-e9kOiKmNPJWWukQGdYZZ0Fk4/s400/Pancake+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pancakes with maple syrup, and a side of bacon or maple sausages</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And that's why I have the maple leaf charm on my "Treasured Hearts" bracelet, all about our family.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmzuQjypXyuSdD0yXkgyg-i7UR3p98z2L1Pg7eR1usTTGlhzUUHd2xvsIPiHivr5Jyxh3dg9XzAgHktfpsNkVG8IdEwrq3xMR-UXjjoDRrL7Fw3YvHFIqOf9AoD9MlUq4a-nA11bVWZo/s1600/IMG_2083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmzuQjypXyuSdD0yXkgyg-i7UR3p98z2L1Pg7eR1usTTGlhzUUHd2xvsIPiHivr5Jyxh3dg9XzAgHktfpsNkVG8IdEwrq3xMR-UXjjoDRrL7Fw3YvHFIqOf9AoD9MlUq4a-nA11bVWZo/s400/IMG_2083.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4>
Related Posts:</h4>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/05/walk-this-way-in-moment.html">Walk this way - in the moment</a> - the very first story on my blog about starting my meditative walks while we were at Calabogie in 2012, not long after I had begun my recovery and started earning Pandora charms - including some more pictures from Calabogie.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/03/can-you-see-whats-there-its-wonderland.html">Can you see what's there? It's a wonderland!</a> - a story about one of the most important things I do to beat the winter blues and one of my most important affirmations.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/12/accept-where-you-are-and-start-where.html">Accept where you are and start where you're at</a> - a story about my wake-up call last Spring; now updated with videos embedded from my new YouTube channel.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/10/do-you-know-what-makes-you-happy.html">Do you know what makes you happy?</a> - a story about our favourite adventures and traditions in the Autumn - and the charm that represents it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/04/a-little-girl-and-egg-remind-me-to.html">A little girl and an egg remind me to celebrate</a> - an Easter story about my daughter and the joy of celebrating the little things.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-74143958032053926262017-03-24T10:29:00.000-04:002017-07-30T22:22:55.181-04:00Prescription for panic: ice, ice babyHave you ever wondered why people splash water on their face? Actually, I myself have never really thought about it before, but they do it all the time on TV and in the movies. Turns out there is a really good reason for this - <em>and</em> the more extreme version called "ice diving" - and it helps if you are upset, angry, worried, or embarrassed, even if you practice forms of self-harm, like cutting.<br>
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"Ice diving" is one of the best ways to get out of 911, whether you're feeling anxious or having a panic attack, you're frustrated or angry, or you're feeling disgusted with yourself or feeling full of shame and speaking harshly to yourself.<br>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAHFeLCqPxV3x7RpqZx02a_GTF4Vm9nlsJbE23z8T_Uf8P4DATExAV6rPI8VA_znU38AXZ-obHDMSBHMHiLodRQXc22tUZO94P3gu3IUnkSYAaHgLnpxHBRdySGEc3wFfG9Trd0mitCk/s1600/IMG_3987.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAHFeLCqPxV3x7RpqZx02a_GTF4Vm9nlsJbE23z8T_Uf8P4DATExAV6rPI8VA_znU38AXZ-obHDMSBHMHiLodRQXc22tUZO94P3gu3IUnkSYAaHgLnpxHBRdySGEc3wFfG9Trd0mitCk/s320/IMG_3987.PNG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Frozen snowflake (and polar bear) charms on my<br>
"Beat the Winter Blues" bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Maybe the reason I've never tried splashing water on my face is because I am a girl and I wouldn't want to "ruin my makeup." But last Wednesday was a make-up free day (as are most days, if I'm being perfectly honest) so I gave it a try. Even better, I went ice diving. And it rescued me!<br>
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(Since I've already assigned a meaning to the <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/12/on-second-day-of-christmas.html">polar bear</a> charm, I use the snowflake charm from the Disney movie "Frozen" to represent this effective strategy.)<br>
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The reason I needed this rescue strategy last week was because my "threat system" (aka the fight-or-flight response) had kicked in. As I explained in an earlier <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/11/when-your-brain-and-body-scream-911.html">post</a>, "there are only three emotions when you are in 911: anger, fear, and shame." and I was feeling them all.<br>
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When I opened the mail last week there was a letter to my husband from the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) saying that he owed over $2000 in taxes and I started to panic. I have this memory of the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) coming to our home when I was a child and arresting my father for not paying his taxes. Or... maybe it was for not paying for parking tickets. Or... maybe they just came to yell at him and didn't cart him away! Or... maybe it never happened at all. But it sure feels real! Arguments about money were frequent and explosive issues in our home, so they trigger very strong reactions in me. This letter also triggered some shame. Although we have overcome some major financial hurtles and are <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/02/the-chinese-new-year-hong-bao-that.html">debt-free</a>, I am not contributing much to our financial situation at the moment.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg131s_BvasOx_wqAhofycnlwpbltPfQ_VKfP_BRBdiKLBj4dkaiReGd4PHneU6urrEI40skWd6Pa4BpPGCFjbXShS8ZOxrtVACDq4TcTYpgzOWJLO5T3TozrEWQYFVp8XlJ7O78unfYnc/s1600/2015-07-02-061f0fb8_large.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg131s_BvasOx_wqAhofycnlwpbltPfQ_VKfP_BRBdiKLBj4dkaiReGd4PHneU6urrEI40skWd6Pa4BpPGCFjbXShS8ZOxrtVACDq4TcTYpgzOWJLO5T3TozrEWQYFVp8XlJ7O78unfYnc/s320/2015-07-02-061f0fb8_large.png" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shame (here in polar bear style) is one of the 911 emotions.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I knew that there had been some issues with my husband's taxes and he had recently filed some paperwork, so he had asked me to open the mail if anything came from CRA, expecting to find out what his tax refund would be. What a surprise to find out that it was NOT a refund after all! (I have come to see that <em>surprise</em> frequently pushes me into panic.) So, trying not to <em>over</em>-react, I splashed some cold water on my face, and called my husband at work. In the past, my fight-or-flight response would have me fighting with my husband or I would be so overcome with emotions I'd be crying hysterically, but we actually had a reasonable conversation. Sure enough, when he called the CRA the next day he discovered that his new paperwork had not been processed yet - crisis averted. And my urge to respond to those intense emotions, and potentially cause harm to our <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/the-deepest-secret-nobody-knows.html">relationship</a>, also averted.<br>
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As soon as I hung up the phone it rang (another surprise!). It was a call from a woman from Desjardin Financial, the company that had looked after my mother's retirement income. Apparently there was a life insurance policy that I hadn't been aware of (surprise!) and they would be sending a cheque to both my brother and I - nine years after she died! Now most people would be happy to hear news of a sudden windfall (a happy surprise!), but I was suddenly flooded with a sense of shame and instantly felt my face get flushed. I started asking the woman questions about how this happened and why were they just finding out now. I also asked <em>myself </em>questions: How had I missed this? What did I do wrong? I was saying things to myself like, "I was a terrible daughter." You know, beating myself up and <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/05/an-essential-feel-better-lesson-from.html">should-ing all over myself</a>. And I had a VERY strong urge to binge. Ice diving to the rescue!<br>
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Both self-harm and problematic eating, like bingeing and purging, can be ways of managing distressing emotions. Intense emotions frequently lead to these urges, behaviour urges that are hard to resist. One of the most important things I have learned about dealing with intense emotions like panic, anger, and shame is "Distress Tolerance." The goal of distress tolerance is to figure out how to tolerate the <em>distress</em> of intense emotions without doing something that is harmful to ourselves or others, or doing something to harm our relationships. In other words the goal is to not make the situation worse. Ice diving can provide instant results and stop you from doing something that is harmful to yourself or others. <br>
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<strong>The Most Important T.I.P.</strong><br>
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When I first met with Dr. Mercer, the psychiatrist at the Shared Care Mental Health Team, back in the Spring of 2014, she gave me this tip for managing my panic attacks - and the way to remember it is the acronym T.I.P. We discussed this in the <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/do-i-really-deserve-to-be-happy-and.html">Day Hospital</a> program I attended in the Fall of 2014, but I learned even more about it in the "Working with Emotions" program I completed just over a year ago in the Fall of 2015.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfl67hwBYY8zVQrEv_0hfk3SqWdjW6DwgIZ7O7ocRTFopw4XUfrkYcQHZcSSt13pQSbVg-lv5wzFUXr5Mj2N5_EkkCmcbVYHBaYURqZtBYQ8Eacg0nUU6-cAfHXAjtzDu34m8E1UtcPKA/s1600/IMG_4038.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfl67hwBYY8zVQrEv_0hfk3SqWdjW6DwgIZ7O7ocRTFopw4XUfrkYcQHZcSSt13pQSbVg-lv5wzFUXr5Mj2N5_EkkCmcbVYHBaYURqZtBYQ8Eacg0nUU6-cAfHXAjtzDu34m8E1UtcPKA/s400/IMG_4038.PNG" width="400"></a></div>
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Although the "Frozen" snowflake charm is perfect for my "Beat the Winter Blues" bracelet, I actually wear it all year round, in different bracelet combinations, because this strategy is, for me, one of the most effective rescue techniques whenever I get into 911.<br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUuD7pcGv9TxZ94ooi4I2TO0OIO8aWGoBoL5yKLLz31pfeR-1qsV7u7qHOP-tMckLIHeDPvH0XIMAR4oAEQK3Ca7LBRXYlWlwVCjablu0q86BoUeDmIzMfuW4CM9E86r8N6MMtBFZ4TE/s1600/IMG_6171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUuD7pcGv9TxZ94ooi4I2TO0OIO8aWGoBoL5yKLLz31pfeR-1qsV7u7qHOP-tMckLIHeDPvH0XIMAR4oAEQK3Ca7LBRXYlWlwVCjablu0q86BoUeDmIzMfuW4CM9E86r8N6MMtBFZ4TE/s320/IMG_6171.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Frozen snowflake in the centre of my bangle.</td></tr>
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The T in T.I.P. stands for "temperature change," in other words, change the temperature of your body. Some people find a warm bath, a hot shower, or even putting their feet in warm or very hot water, can help ease the discomfort of anxiety or panic, but most people get their best results from the cold, in particular, "ice diving" (instructions and explanations to follow).<br>
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The I represents "intense exercise." This is an effective way to calm a body that is revved up by stress and intense emotions. It allows you to relieve muscle tension and burn off the "stress hormones" adrenaline and cortisol, as well as producing a release of endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones. Do some push-ups, do jumping jacks, run up and down the stairs, or put on some music and dance.<br>
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The P represents "paced breathing" and/or "progressive relaxation." Learning how to control your breath, by doing diaphragmatic breathing or counting the length of your breaths, can help reverse the symptoms of fight-or-flight, slowing down your heart rate and racing thoughts. Learning meditation teaches you how to use your breath to calm you down. Learning progressive muscle relaxation also changes the bodily sensations of the stress response.<br>
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<strong>The Stress Response</strong><br>
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To understand how this T.I.P. works, you need to understand the stress response, what happens physiologically when your body responds to a perceived threat, which we can refer to as being in 911. <br>
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The reality is we have not really evolved very much from our caveman days, at least physiologically. If you were a caveman (or woman) who sees a threat, like a scary animal, let's just call it a sabre-tooth tiger, you would need to either fight or flee. Your body will immediately kick into fight-or-flight. Regardless of whether you fight or flee, your body needs to prepare for that physical exertion. All of these changes in our bodies can be evident when we have a panic attack; see if you recognise some of them.<br>
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If you were going to run from, or battle, that sabre-tooth tiger (I'm still undecided as to which would be best), then your body needs to increase your breathing rate to ensure you get enough oxygen to your working heart and muscles. For me this is the most obvious bodily sensation during a panic attack. I'm breathing really fast, taking shallow breaths, can't get any air into my lungs, can't catch my breath, and feel like I'm being suffocated. Of course being short of breath makes me panic and worsens the panic attack.<br>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiwt25HGjUf8NnUP5_XandkCx1HVrE5BWdBKU_HRyuXubXnjQAZ6yzdwscw7LBMVFsqVDnNDcPQM2d45sSqAxBu5GR0Q0nTXt4pazZf6uarlGaUmFM6Uxm8Gh3QvbnBnrbFpjpFy_RtiA/s1600/IMG_3652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiwt25HGjUf8NnUP5_XandkCx1HVrE5BWdBKU_HRyuXubXnjQAZ6yzdwscw7LBMVFsqVDnNDcPQM2d45sSqAxBu5GR0Q0nTXt4pazZf6uarlGaUmFM6Uxm8Gh3QvbnBnrbFpjpFy_RtiA/s320/IMG_3652.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look how much the Pandora charm resembles the snowflake from the Disney movie.</td></tr>
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When the fight-or-flight response kicks in, your heart rate also increases in order to make sure that you are getting enough blood flow to your heart and muscles, which will be working extra hard to fight, or flee. Some people with anxiety or panic attacks have racing heart rates, tightness in their chest, and even feel like - and fear - that they are having a heart attack.<br>
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Making sure that you have enough blood flow to your heart, brain and muscles also leads to a redistribution of your blood supply. Your blood is diverted away from the non-essential body functions like digestion, which may lead to nausea. Your body may even want to empty the digestive system or the bladder. My mother always had to go to the bathroom when she was nervous; it was particularly annoying when she had Alzheimer's and couldn't remember that she'd just gone! But, as always, I digress.<br>
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The blood is diverted to more essential functions like the brain and heart as well as the muscles you will use to fight or flee. Your working muscles will create a lot of heat, a by-product of making energy. In order to dissipate that heat, blood is diverted closer to your skin to make sure you can cool yourself off, which means you may feel flushed and you may sweat. <br>
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Any of this sound familiar? Fear is something you can <em>feel</em> and many people with anxiety or panic report symptoms like shortness of breath, muscle tension, chest pain, racing heart or heart palpitations, excessive sweating, sweaty palms, and nausea.<br>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg5l1Slix-eotZhvQXCmKktsr2rRZjswjUYVVKWdIH-H-kz1ODsW21ei_QpYh8PicFNPpIPfU7fz-qltxawmjSulL9f49sXatddGeXATIuuaYnkqM3tlbcY7C-p1bRUA-14HoVZEgIrao/s1600/Frozens-Elsa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg5l1Slix-eotZhvQXCmKktsr2rRZjswjUYVVKWdIH-H-kz1ODsW21ei_QpYh8PicFNPpIPfU7fz-qltxawmjSulL9f49sXatddGeXATIuuaYnkqM3tlbcY7C-p1bRUA-14HoVZEgIrao/s320/Frozens-Elsa.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elsa and her signature snowflake from "Frozen"</td></tr>
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If you, the brave caveman or daring cavewoman, while in the process of fleeing from the sabre-tooth tiger, fall into a frozen lake, everything changes; your body changes priorities. The threat to your life <em>now</em> is to keep you from dying of hypothermia. Forget about the sabre-tooth tiger. You need to survive being immersed in freezing water. Your body will stop the stress response. You can trick your body into thinking you have fallen into a frozen lake and reverse those uncomfortable physiological responses of the fight-or-flight system by ice diving.<br>
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<strong>Instructions for Ice Diving:</strong><br>
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<em>Fill a sink (or a bowl </em><em>large enough for your whole face) </em><em>with ice cubes and water. When the water is really cold, lean forward, hold your breath, and plunge your face into the ice water. Hold it there for as long as you can, up to 30 seconds (or at least 5-10 seconds). Come up for a breath and repeat. Repeat as often as needed until your intense urges have passed and the intense emotions have settled.</em><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAqLIOPBtlQu6re2DbIRayYUFcg_HrLjuxeIICfMo1S3MHsovR8OWLNq16M51_rorcxMyu4MHMHvUkq8lwRucUWj4l5LM0cuxLO1uv7faSOD612bhlu_nKasa5Z5lXg45Fqq0ZQjmj8vg/s1600/IMG_3944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAqLIOPBtlQu6re2DbIRayYUFcg_HrLjuxeIICfMo1S3MHsovR8OWLNq16M51_rorcxMyu4MHMHvUkq8lwRucUWj4l5LM0cuxLO1uv7faSOD612bhlu_nKasa5Z5lXg45Fqq0ZQjmj8vg/s320/IMG_3944.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
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Since there are usually dirty <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/clean-up-with-tea-cup.html">dishes</a> in <em>our</em> kitchen sink, and the ice cubes and freezer are not near our <em>upstairs</em> <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2017/02/how-hopi-helps-with-housework.html">bathroom</a> sink, I grab a large plastic bowl from the kitchen cupboard, empty a tray of ice cubes into it and then fill it with cold water. And dive in.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEAmwJg-qGO9mDdX1vAm2ovtlt-eYIi0l2WT2XlR6f9vC66UYed4zRdHg9o6eDCNge7GNK_jzf21qbcz2XH1WAUktWMSWUG70W9yQ6PCgugFJnjuqH7aIZY3KS6WRNU8NeNNxVoCVOK0/s1600/IMG_3942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEAmwJg-qGO9mDdX1vAm2ovtlt-eYIi0l2WT2XlR6f9vC66UYed4zRdHg9o6eDCNge7GNK_jzf21qbcz2XH1WAUktWMSWUG70W9yQ6PCgugFJnjuqH7aIZY3KS6WRNU8NeNNxVoCVOK0/s320/IMG_3942.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
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If you're not in a place where you can <em>literally</em> dive face-first into cold water, or don't want to wear the Speedo as in the photo above, you can <em>trick </em>your body into eliciting the "mammalian dive reflex."<br>
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<strong>Mammalian Dive Reflex</strong><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqH5i3lttUu9T8SJZ6yeT3m8CiSrmNHQohTarcKJvLDIVcEa3A1HM5OC6Ze1Faz3CdIkClvUjz-QOlNDnqt-99HFKuMDkBIlYZyNG7fAIAnKTkE1LeKQxxDRfJrLCv-T0rRGo7-p8FlCw/s1600/d6e266211f163b1bd1a763441d102713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqH5i3lttUu9T8SJZ6yeT3m8CiSrmNHQohTarcKJvLDIVcEa3A1HM5OC6Ze1Faz3CdIkClvUjz-QOlNDnqt-99HFKuMDkBIlYZyNG7fAIAnKTkE1LeKQxxDRfJrLCv-T0rRGo7-p8FlCw/s320/d6e266211f163b1bd1a763441d102713.jpg" width="214"></a></div>
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This is a physiological response to diving into cold water. The body's "prime directive" (to quote Star Trek) is to keep the brain functioning, ensuring that it is getting sufficient fuel and oxygen. When aquatic mammals, like seals, otters and muskrats, dive under cold water their bodies adjust to allow them to hold their breath longer under water without coming up for a breath, essentially helping them tolerate low oxygen levels. To conserve oxygen, the heart rate slows significantly (called bradycardia) and the blood vessels in the limbs constrict (called peripheral vasoconstriction). The blood shifts from the limbs (and less vital organs) to the chest, concentrating the blood flow between the lungs, heart and brain. It is similar to the slowing down of the metabolism during hibernation or protective hypothermia (the response to falling in that frozen lake).<br>
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This reflex is very effective for aquatic mammals but this primitive neural reflex<em> still exists in humans</em> and can provide instant and powerful results just by holding your breath and chilling your face.<br>
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<strong>Anxiety and Panic Attacks</strong><br>
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The stress responses, those physiological changes in our bodies when we are in the fight-or-flight system, are all a result of the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system is one of our autonomic nervous systems, the ones that are (surprise surprise!) automatic and act without our conscious control. We have another autonomic system called the <em>para</em>sympathetic nervous system. It is the one that calms you down and it often referred to as "rest and digest." When we are trying to manage intense emotions the trick is to switch <em>off</em> the sympathetic nervous system and switch <em>on</em> the parasympathetic system, and the most effective way to do this is by controlling the vagus nerve. We don't have direct control over this system but we can stimulate the vagus nerve with the diving reflex.<br>
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The diving reflex is the most powerful autonomic reflex known. It instantly slows your heart rate and changes the distribution of your blood. It can get you out of an anxiety attack or panic attack in seconds.<br>
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You can also stimulate the vagus nerve through something called the Valsalva maneuver. "Bearing down," as one does when trying to empty the bowel or push out a baby, creates an increase in blood pressure in the chest. There are receptors in the heart which respond by stimulating the vagus nerve, lowering the heart rate to counter the high blood pressure.<br>
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I was surprised when I saw these tricks being used on the American TV show "Code Black," set in an emergency room in Los Angeles. The Emergency Room doctor resorted to the dive reflex when he couldn't lower his patient's racing heart rate. He put an ice pack over her eyes and told her to hold her breath and "bear down." Not that you should believe everything you see on television, but if it rescues this patient it can rescue you too.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLLOIM0dBr2xTWHGWK-BFsCATFayxyTCUO79SQQC4NJFekf6gbXxz5d0w6DDsdCg6aPTtu1YtcZ1S5fGIfCPUEd3kB0HIQwoxIL5px-5bPjvge8e0NHK31C_Dc1u_wz5lsqP5yqroWPg/s1600/IMG_4739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLLOIM0dBr2xTWHGWK-BFsCATFayxyTCUO79SQQC4NJFekf6gbXxz5d0w6DDsdCg6aPTtu1YtcZ1S5fGIfCPUEd3kB0HIQwoxIL5px-5bPjvge8e0NHK31C_Dc1u_wz5lsqP5yqroWPg/s320/IMG_4739.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screenshot from the emergency room on "Code Black"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong><span style="color: red;">Warning:</span></strong></em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong><span style="color: red;">Do not use the dive reflex or Valsalva maneuver if you have a heart condition or anorexia!</span></strong></em></div>
<strong><em></em></strong><br>
So when you're having an anxiety or panic attack, channel your inner dolphin (or polar bear) by "diving" into cold. Hold your breath and submerge your face in ice water or hold cold packs on your face, or even a cold wet towel. Make sure to get the forehead and the area around the nose, as well as the eye socket and under the eye. These are the areas that will stimulate that vagus nerve.<br>
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In addition to putting ice on your face there are a few other tricks that can help.<br>
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Do you know why first aid responders at races like marathons will put ice in the groin and arm pits of people with heat stroke? It's because large blood vessels lie close to the skin surface (that's why we sweat there) and ice in those areas is an efficient way to cool off the body. Take a cold shower and aim the stream of cold water at your arm pits and groin.<br>
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Remember your physical education teacher (or your mom) telling you that you lose most of your heat through your head? That's why you pour water on your head if you're running a race and why you need a hat when winter camping (yes, we do that in Canada). In a cold shower I find letting the cold water hit my head makes a big difference.<br>
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Why do you think we have physical symptoms like the flush of embarrassment or shame? Or have a red face in the heat of anger? Or have sweaty palms when we're nervous? It is because there is efficient heat transfer there - they help cool us off when the fight-or-flight response kicks in. Recent research indicates that the blood vessels in the cheeks, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet do not contract when they come in contact with cold. You can take advantage of this and continue to cool the blood by applying cold water or ice to these areas - like using your hands to splash cold water on your face!<br>
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Have you ever thought about why you put perfume on your neck, behind your ears and at your wrists? It's because the blood vessels are near the surface in these areas, which means they are warmer, which evaporates the alcohol in perfume and amplifies the aroma. Those superficial blood vessels also allow you to take your pulse at the wrist and neck (called "pulse points"). You can calm yourself down by cooling yourself off in these places. I find that if my hands are cold it helps calm me to simply place my fingers behind my ears, or use my cold fingers to massage my eye area and forehead.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIGgG8TQZqsbj9K0OwSJJSKXutZrgNyiDTi5RgqCj4DcUlcaMMFiZoRCCs6Sh5Ia0B2JaEYYkeac2gFkS9H5mXRXruWvTcwi-t6zp28fWWt2NX1Ybc4EXnBTqXuDcNIe79RssrzXF3ms/s1600/IMG_3968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIGgG8TQZqsbj9K0OwSJJSKXutZrgNyiDTi5RgqCj4DcUlcaMMFiZoRCCs6Sh5Ia0B2JaEYYkeac2gFkS9H5mXRXruWvTcwi-t6zp28fWWt2NX1Ybc4EXnBTqXuDcNIe79RssrzXF3ms/s320/IMG_3968.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made these felt snowflake Christmas tree ornaments for a Christmas gift exchange last year.</td></tr>
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We have discussed the application of acute (short-term) cold as a rescue technique, but on a regular (long-term) basis you can also stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system (the vagus nerve) through singing, yoga, tai chi, meditation, prayer (particularly the repetitive recitation of the rosary), deep slow breathing, positive social interactions, laughter, exercise, and massage (including <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/what-do-flip-flops-have-to-do-with.html">foot rubs</a>). The best way to strengthen the parasympathetic nervous system is by controlling your breath. <br>
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I'm thinking that singing (breath control) <em>and</em> dancing (intense exercise) to "Ice, Ice Baby" might be the best way to remember this TIP:<br>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>To rescue yourself from panic or other intense emotions or behaviour urges, use ice, ice baby.</em></strong></div>
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You Tube video of "Ice, Ice Baby" (by Vanilla Ice), performed on the TV show "Glee"</div>
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<strong>"Ice, Ice Baby:" putting it into practice</strong><br>
<ol>
<li>Freeze an almost-full bottle of water and carry it with you. Freeze it with the top off so it won't burst in the freezer.</li>
<li>Fill a water bottle with ice cubes and carry it with you. I always have a water bottle or two with me and I have an extra bottle with just ice. Ice cubes will melt quickly if they are in water but will stay frozen quite a long time in a bottle by themselves. I can then add ice cubes to my water bottle to make it colder and roll it on my face.</li>
<li>Carry in your purse or knapsack a soft first aid ice pack from the freezer; wrap it in tea towels to help it stay cold longer.</li>
<li>Carry an "instant ice pack," the kind you squeeze to activate; they are surprisingly inexpensive.</li>
<li>In winter, carry a zipper-top plastic bag that you can fill with snow; it shapes nicely to the contours of your face.</li>
<li>Bring a face cloth and pour cold water onto it. Even better put an ice cube IN the wet cloth and then rub it on your face, neck, behind your ears and on your wrists.</li>
</ol>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vdU5vt9jqXMu9YWACNZ-d2KAJ8KXhu0YgkPrAsf8qxwpu7mBwBX_-GruWcF417v7pWeIhM0q4arHNAZ9sLSfS6mHUHamRHxdJgAPRfhgl2tYGtudfcoLl0Bglyh0QNWPbHA9D5xujOs/s1600/IMG_4179.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vdU5vt9jqXMu9YWACNZ-d2KAJ8KXhu0YgkPrAsf8qxwpu7mBwBX_-GruWcF417v7pWeIhM0q4arHNAZ9sLSfS6mHUHamRHxdJgAPRfhgl2tYGtudfcoLl0Bglyh0QNWPbHA9D5xujOs/s320/IMG_4179.PNG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The centrepiece on my bangle is the Frozen snowflake<br>
worn with my chalcedony "Serenity" bracelet<br>
and blue chalcedony Mii bracelets</td></tr>
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<strong>Self-Harm</strong><br>
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Millions of people in North America and around the world practice self-harm, including cutting, burning, hair-pulling, or hitting, as well as bingeing and purging, or abusing alcohol or pain killers. It seems that there are some people who specifically associate pain with the feeling of euphoria we get when the pain is <em>relieved</em>. This can become a way of relieving emotional pain or intense emotions. Cutting and other forms of self-mutilation can cause the body to release natural painkillers called endorphins. These painkillers can make a person feel better physically and emotionally, at least for a short amount of time. The reward provided by the relief reinforces the behaviour, making it difficult to stop the very strong urges. The goal is to find another way to relieve the pain without causing physical harm.<br>
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<strong>"Ice, Ice Baby:" putting it into practice</strong><br>
<ol>
<li>Ice diving will release endorphins and will give you the same high as cutting or other forms of self-harm, minus the harm.</li>
<li>Jump in a cold shower - with your clothes on if you need to! Not only will it elicit the diving reflex, especially when you let the cold water hit your face, but it will also distract you and delay acting on your urge long enough that the urge to cut or self-harm may pass.</li>
<li>Squeeze ice cubes in your hands as long as you can. The cold causes pain in your hands, and then the subsequent desired pain <em>relief</em>, but is not dangerous or harmful.</li>
<li>Put ice directly on your skin, where you would normally cut or burn yourself. It can give you a strong painful sensation, and may even leave a red mark afterwards, but not a permanent mark. </li>
</ol>
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Next time you are anxious about a presentation, get an upsetting phone call, or panic about your taxes, use ice, ice baby. You could also wash your hands and let the cold water run on your hands and wrists. At the very least, splash cold water on your face. Make-up be damned!<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSMSc145pDjPmiLB9IYbSvi5WrJw-FDBNs1epwILDtAmr5Q7-xQSNCjH3iTdUOXQn7tk15UmztAB5NsCBNemKjdRboy_W_ILMAt5qMDhqPk7QSX7ASkEZWw6R9RpPNW9NcD4w5E4NWJ4/s1600/IMG_4051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSMSc145pDjPmiLB9IYbSvi5WrJw-FDBNs1epwILDtAmr5Q7-xQSNCjH3iTdUOXQn7tk15UmztAB5NsCBNemKjdRboy_W_ILMAt5qMDhqPk7QSX7ASkEZWw6R9RpPNW9NcD4w5E4NWJ4/s400/IMG_4051.JPG" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How I stack my "Beat the Winter Blues" bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong></strong><br>
<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br>
<strong></strong><br>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/08/advice-on-managing-anxiety-from-turtle.html">Advice on managing anxiety - from a turtle!</a> - a story about my very first charm, on the very first day of my recovery from my eating disorder, and one of the most important reminders when I'm in fight-or-flight and have the urge to binge. You can also learn how to correctly do diaphragmatic breathing - it is probably the opposite of what you always thought it was!<br>
<br>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/the-turtle-part-two-gimme-some-fin.html">The turtle part two: advice for anxious parents</a> - a story about how heart-breaking it is when you see your children struggle, with strategies we used for helping our son with intense emotions like anger and anxiety. You can also read one of the best pieces of parenting advice I've come across - it's from a turtle!<br>
<br>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/11/when-your-brain-and-body-scream-911.html">When your brain and body scream 911</a> - a story about my introduction to the idea of "wise mind" and the "threat system" (or 911) and the reason for my intense emotions. You'll also see an overview of the types of therapy that have made a huge difference for my mental health.<br>
<br>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/11/will-he-always-love-me.html">Will he always love me? My explanation of panic attacks</a> - a story about the origins of schema-focused therapy. A rather long post but my explanation of panic attacks and my behaviour urges when I'm having a panic attack.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-784206717814145952017-03-17T20:15:00.001-04:002017-03-17T20:15:42.454-04:00Enjoy your cheer - it comes but once a year! A reflection on St. Patrick's Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNZmlpcr27QZCEQej3Dm6s39xGgd3sV7teIbrY-7_p97dTP8icN8P4ABJGsjTEqtx-5UqshgHFtxUF3kBah8xIJ5psqGPxWmH5WazcygoNKU-r0-7-e3ZEVBahh6-wkSdidY7u3xf2tA/s1600/IMG_6103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNZmlpcr27QZCEQej3Dm6s39xGgd3sV7teIbrY-7_p97dTP8icN8P4ABJGsjTEqtx-5UqshgHFtxUF3kBah8xIJ5psqGPxWmH5WazcygoNKU-r0-7-e3ZEVBahh6-wkSdidY7u3xf2tA/s320/IMG_6103.JPG" width="320" /></a>A few years ago I decided to start a new tradition with my family for St. Patrick's Day. I wanted to make traditional Irish soda bread - and my reward for my efforts would be the retired silver clover charm for my <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/06/dont-be-afraid-to-let-them-see.html">True Colours</a> bracelet.<br />
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But on the evening of St. Patty's Day, my husband and I were arguing (God-only-knows what we were arguing <em>about</em>), and my son was whining and saying, "Can't we make something else?" (you know, the way they draaaaaaw out the end of the last worrrrrrrd). I just got annoyed and said, "Fine! Forget it!" and went to my room to sulk! I needed to give myself a time-out.<br />
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With my emotional state already ramped up by the argument, I was overwhelmed with my feelings of frustration with the kids, and on the verge of having a panic attack. At that time I hadn't really learned about distress tolerance or emotion regulation, but at least I removed myself from the situation until I could calm down. Not long after, my daughter came upstairs and said, "Mommy, can we still make the bread?" She always reminds me to be resilient. She must also be lucky because she found three four-leaf clover before she was ten!<br />
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Taylor has always been quite shy, and she is often cautious when given the chance to try something new. There have been so many times when I have said to her, "Don't miss out. You may not get this opportunity again." That night, on St. Patrick's Day, I needed to say this to myself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwPP8UYiP36xDtLq57fmBkbLZDx0W8aozxYmtJEf6lctVBoJ8fBNLIcIyYCc9aQP-nN1GGCcS8D4XSB0wbwnhK41RcByn8kbfRwifowbo1JEAyuDutUfjWP1JCiFSrQH_29G3ayXdXH4/s1600/IMG_0480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwPP8UYiP36xDtLq57fmBkbLZDx0W8aozxYmtJEf6lctVBoJ8fBNLIcIyYCc9aQP-nN1GGCcS8D4XSB0wbwnhK41RcByn8kbfRwifowbo1JEAyuDutUfjWP1JCiFSrQH_29G3ayXdXH4/s320/IMG_0480.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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When you struggle with depression or anxiety, it is often the things we say to <em>ourselves, </em>rather than the things <em>others</em> say or do, that creates the overwhelming emotions that we experience. So I said to myself, "Don't miss out on this opportunity to make these memories with the kids. St. Patrick's Day only comes once a year!" I knew that if I didn't <em>do</em> this I was going to be really mad at myself! I also didn't want to let this ruin the whole evening. So I pulled it together. The kids each made a loaf of soda bread (with just a little direction from me). And we had some tasty Irish soda bread with dinner, to celebrate our Irish heritage. Now it's an annual tradition and the clover charm is an important reminder.<br />
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On a four-leaf clover, according to tradition, the first leaf represents hope, the second represents faith, and the third, love - the <em>fourth</em> is for luck. But for me this little four-leaf clover will also represent something else. It will remind me that there are things that only happen once a year, or only once <em>ever</em>, so "Don't miss out." I try to remember to be in the moment. To make memories. And to cherish those "unforgettable moments."<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOQYDmqoNNY8EI-zaGCRIoHLgZCDqAJIQUTgFMu0t6BgDGD4z5_D1S55HVyL6HdcCcTl-8TK5Uchdi_5F3gtKpoN9o6S70QjmNChuqgeOu9dCHvjHnbdW6B6OAVAhWDfar5vz1d6YYI8/s1600/IMG_4184.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOQYDmqoNNY8EI-zaGCRIoHLgZCDqAJIQUTgFMu0t6BgDGD4z5_D1S55HVyL6HdcCcTl-8TK5Uchdi_5F3gtKpoN9o6S70QjmNChuqgeOu9dCHvjHnbdW6B6OAVAhWDfar5vz1d6YYI8/s400/IMG_4184.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our traditional Irish soda bread</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I just realized that the Pandora four-leaf clover charm looks a lot like the cross you score into the top of the round loaf of bread! To read the traditional <em>reason</em> for the cross you can check out my baking blog <a href="http://leonardfamilyfavourites.blogspot.ca/">Leonard Family Favourites</a>, and see what my kids scored into the top of their first loaves of bread. This year the charm has the added congratulations to myself for completing the blog post about Irish soda bread in time for St. Patrick's Day. I wanted to do it in memory of my late Uncle Gordon Bingham, because the reason I started the blog was to share favourite family recipes with Gordon's children, and my youngest cousins, Alyson and James Bingham. I was pleased, thanks to Aunt Edna, that I was able to include a photo of Gordon as a teenager with his family, not long after they left Ireland and immigrated to Australia. You'll find recipes for three versions of the bread and some photos of how we like to eat it. You won't believe how quick and easy it is to have warm homemade bread, fresh from the oven. Our picky eater Taylor even likes it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcd112MFNZr7FV2iUH5HGvZoSxDV1WfyaBbQViLQbSseTAOKGvMJYen_IqRx-h0u3_LT595nZh2V_gz59BbLK7wIDA14lsnytjaRir6aIoVoHJu5v7gcOL-OpX6q_7_lveRL66TDrzTA/s1600/IMG_4147.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcd112MFNZr7FV2iUH5HGvZoSxDV1WfyaBbQViLQbSseTAOKGvMJYen_IqRx-h0u3_LT595nZh2V_gz59BbLK7wIDA14lsnytjaRir6aIoVoHJu5v7gcOL-OpX6q_7_lveRL66TDrzTA/s400/IMG_4147.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bracelet made just for St. Patrick's Day this year.<br />
On my Essence bracelet the "prosperity" charm provides a focal point.</td></tr>
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I have been reminded that not all of my readers know the names of every charm Pandora ever produced (as I do) so I thought I would list the names of the charms on this new bracelet I made just for St. Patrick's Day; clockwise from the top: birds of a feather; love, hope and faith; moss; clover; leaf spacer; green fascinating murano; tree of life; fireworks (or starburst) clip; wildflower murano; roses spacer; celebration; unicorn dangle; world peace; roses spacer; wildflower murano; fireworks clip; wise owl; green fascinating murano; leaf spacer; cathedral ceiling; family tree; sun, moon and stars; and elemental flow clip.<br />
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In case you're wondering why I have the unicorn dangle on my St. Patrick's Day bracelet, it's because of this favourite song from my childhood, sung by a Canadian group of Irish immigrants; they called themselves The Irish Rovers. Their first hit "The Unicorn" was from a song originally written and recorded by Shel Silverstein, author of the famous book "The Giving Tree." The Irish Rovers TV show was a staple in my home while I was growing up. When I think "Irish," this song about the unicorns always comes to mind.<br />
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You Tube video of "The Unicorn" by The Irish Rovers with lyrics</div>
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<h4>
Related Posts:</h4>
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/04/a-little-girl-and-egg-remind-me-to.html">A little girl and an egg remind me to celebrate</a> - a story about an interesting observation about my daughter and the insight it taught me.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/11/when-your-brain-and-body-scream-911.html">When your brain and body scream 911</a> - a story about my introduction to the idea of "wise mind" and the "threat system," and the reason for intense emotions.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/11/will-he-always-love-me.html">Will he always love me? My explanation of panic attacks</a> - a story about the origins of schema-focused therapy. A rather long post but my explanation of panic attacks.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/03/managing-emotions-means-learning-to-surf.html">Managing emotions means learning to surf</a> - a story about emotions coming from the fight-or-flight response, and managing intense emotions by learning to "ride the wave."<br />
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Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-9737403932756436052017-03-01T12:05:00.000-05:002017-03-23T13:03:56.011-04:00Will he always love me? My explanation of panic attacks.<div>
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Originally published December 2014</div>
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I <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">have panic attacks. I've had them since my father died over three years ago. And yesterday I had one of my worst. The majority of them seem to happen when my husband and I argue. Yes, we argue - mostly about child-rearing practices. Yes, we argue in front of the kids. And Yes, we continue to work on our communication, and try to model good conflict-resolution skills. But, having said that, finding a cure for the arguments isn't really the issue. The issue is changing how I </span><em style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">respond</em><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> to these situations. It only seems to happen when I realize that my husband is angry, or he outwardly expresses his anger or frustration with the situation, and typically <i>that</i> only happens when I criticize him. That's the tipping point for me.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JymqExXVtg2vTgtDGEA1VfnbIoY5BCIQe9AAP_ymOouNhqxZFiBF0M3UGXDFRrXmqJs01MpBl7TvcIkSvsA6pK4TkmbPnY7JUOPj2vRrEthuwu58a2GtuO9EKXlIowbsOH-Iv4bWlwQ/s640/blogger-image-251342578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JymqExXVtg2vTgtDGEA1VfnbIoY5BCIQe9AAP_ymOouNhqxZFiBF0M3UGXDFRrXmqJs01MpBl7TvcIkSvsA6pK4TkmbPnY7JUOPj2vRrEthuwu58a2GtuO9EKXlIowbsOH-Iv4bWlwQ/s640/blogger-image-251342578.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The everlasting love charm between the letter and the red glass murano</td></tr>
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When we argue in the car and I have a panic attack (my husband is the driver), I want to open the door and jump out of the car! Or pull the steering wheel and drive us all into the ditch, or off a bridge, or into a pole! And if we argue in the bedroom and I have a panic attack, I want to open the window and jump out! I don't, of course. But in the moment I cannot for the life of me think of anything else to do except escape. My brain is screaming, "Danger! ESCAPE!"</div>
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This may sound shocking to many! Dangerous even! But please be assured that I have discussed this with psychiatrists, and I am not suicidal. I am not a danger to my family. I just have panic attacks; well, also depression and anxiety, <em>and</em> an eating disorder, in recovery. But still it's just a panic attack, not suicidal ideation; I don't want to die, I just want to escape.</div>
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If you've been following my stories you know that just over a month ago I finished a six-week full-day intensive treatment program for anxiety and depression; it's referred to as Day Hospital. And the staff there don't think I'm a risk to myself, or others; I suppose they wouldn't have discharged if they had.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAE17WME4UR-qcYytfE9_q9KhCZOl-Bc2kVNbBK3BORNssscuTRi7xCNB7STlfyxWoyYOeHzyikEJix6P0qWvMrBn69JLo0NMG94YFXUYhbVWmGUE78PxyCdGemWwA_xqZzlwb3alrSHY/s640/blogger-image-702001343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAE17WME4UR-qcYytfE9_q9KhCZOl-Bc2kVNbBK3BORNssscuTRi7xCNB7STlfyxWoyYOeHzyikEJix6P0qWvMrBn69JLo0NMG94YFXUYhbVWmGUE78PxyCdGemWwA_xqZzlwb3alrSHY/s640/blogger-image-702001343.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My "Always and Forever" bracelet with Mr. and Mrs. Penguin</td></tr>
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Before I did the program, this "Everlasting Love" charm was my talisman. As I shared in an earlier Marriage Monday <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/06/the-beginning-of-always-and-forever.html">post</a>, <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Mr. and Mrs. Penguin (spotty head and smooth head respectively) remind me of the affirmation, "I love him and he loves me." If we have an argument and </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">those words weren't enough reassurance to calm me down, I would spin this little heart charm around and say, "He will always love me." You'd think that after 20 years of marriage I might start to believe it! But I don't.</span></div>
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At first I didn't know why I had these panic attacks. Then I realized that they coincided with my father's death. I wondered why there was a connection. <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Had I previously thought of my parents as an escape route if I had an argument? Was there a cushion there, to catch me if my husband <i>did</i> abandon me, and now it was gone? But my parents had never been an escape route for me. First of all, I haven't lived in the same city as them since high school, although my mother moved here when she couldn't live on her own anymore. But even before she moved here she was using a walker - and she was blind. And my father had a hard enough time taking care of himself, let alone support me; he was never reliable and certainly never there to catch me. In my imagination, there are </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">some couples who, when they fight, can walk out, and go to their parents' home. I don't know if couples actually do this, or even if it's a good idea, but I always wished I could run away and that my parents would be there for me. But they weren't.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I also wondered if my husband's anger was triggering a response. My father was a pretty passive person and didn't show much emotion, but there were a few incidents in my life where I was truly afraid of his anger. One time, when I was very young, my father pushed my mother and she fell to the floor. My little brother was there and I stood in front of my mother and my brother to protect them from my dad. Many years later, when this came out in therapy, my mother told me that wasn't really what happened - she had in fact tripped. But regardless, it was a little late then; I had always lived with that memory, and that fear. Another time, my father flew into a rage and chased me up to my room. I can't recall what precipitated that, but I remember getting to my room and barricading the door while he pounded on it. I suppose it could be an issue of me being afraid of my husband. But I'm not.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsys6Z_bNTeGmENwEEGyFYuAbomO6mLNcEO9jPheLmD3ExgHRl7hNgHscr1G6uiSY1cRytJGvtUXgvHY6XhBkKSxNPZe76s3Wz_vD4bOZufohrzZmom71FceZiD7QOCJtt5vp2z9Fx-c/s640/blogger-image--375949218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsys6Z_bNTeGmENwEEGyFYuAbomO6mLNcEO9jPheLmD3ExgHRl7hNgHscr1G6uiSY1cRytJGvtUXgvHY6XhBkKSxNPZe76s3Wz_vD4bOZufohrzZmom71FceZiD7QOCJtt5vp2z9Fx-c/s400/blogger-image--375949218.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me with my father in our front yard</td></tr>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">While I was in Day Hospital I slowly started to learn WHY I have panic attacks. I have abandonment issues. I know that sounds cliche, but we were learning about these underlying patterns in our lives and the root causes of those. I need to understand why I am the way I am, before I can make change.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">One of the tools that the Day Hospital used extensively was Jeffery Young's book, "Reinventing Your Life: The Breakthrough Program to End Negative Behaviour and Feel Great Again," co-authored with Janet S. Klosko. </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Young </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">found that he had many patients where Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) didn't work; just changing their thoughts and behaviours was not enough. These people had chronic self-defeating personality problems, psychological problems like depression and anxiety, and recurring patterns in their lives. CBT was not sufficient to change these lifelong patterns. So Young and his colleagues developed what he calls the "lifetrap approach," which combines cognitive and behavioural techniques with psychoanalytic and experiential techniques.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdpnb3e7uN2f-iEZppAlr4jUJ5F-WU4Pvr3BNk7uy3aMtNg13BWCThoz55tZynauLvMiNPorA-kCF0Ki3tKsfLLp7prn95pA-fdnAKXibx7HgT90wogVUblgWjWdkTdpe_hFy3XEhMqo/s640/blogger-image--1475462269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdpnb3e7uN2f-iEZppAlr4jUJ5F-WU4Pvr3BNk7uy3aMtNg13BWCThoz55tZynauLvMiNPorA-kCF0Ki3tKsfLLp7prn95pA-fdnAKXibx7HgT90wogVUblgWjWdkTdpe_hFy3XEhMqo/s640/blogger-image--1475462269.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Young explains what he calls lifetraps: "A lifetrap is a pattern that starts in childhood and reverberates throughout life... Lifetraps determine how we think, feel, act and relate to others. They trigger strong feelings such as anger, sadness and anxiety."</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The technical term for a lifetrap is a <i>schema</i>. "Schemas," as Young describes them, "are deeply entrenched beliefs about ourselves and the world, learned early in life. These schemas are central to our sense of <i>self</i>." Young's approach is called schema-based therapy because it </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">addresses not just the symptoms (depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addictions, eating disorders, etc.) but also these underlying schemas, or controlling beliefs.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I have learned CBT in the past, the techniques for catching your thoughts, to identifying the cognitive errors, challenging the thoughts, and replacing those distorted thoughts. But I always had the impression that if I just worked hard at this and changed my thinking, I would be fine! And since I wasn't fine, I assumed I wasn't doing it correctly, and I was beating myself up. But in </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">doing an assessment upon entering Day Hospital I learned that CBT is often not enough and that </span><i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">one</i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> of my core lifetraps is abandonment. Yes, I have other lifetraps as well but this one is having the greatest impact on my life at the moment.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The real issue is that I felt abandoned by both of my parents, at different times, for different reasons. The most powerful triggers for abandonment are illness, separation, divorce and death, and of course they had both abandoned me one last time; they both died within three years of each other. And before that I was slowing losing my mother to Alzheimer's Disease. But not all </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">triggers are so obvious; they can be very subtle. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">When a lifetrap is triggered we are flooded with negative feelings - sadness, shame, anxiety and anger. And we can learn to run away from those feelings, because the feelings are too hard to face - hence the eating disorder. But in Day Hospital I </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">learned that anything that feels "disconnected" can trigger the lifetrap. </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">So when my husband and I argue, if there is any remote indication that my husband is going to "abandon" me, I panic.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">One of the things a child needs to thrive is basic safety. A child who feels safe can relax and trust. Without this, a child, and later an adult, live in "fight or flight" mode, sometimes called the 911 emotion system. This describes me perfectly: "People who were abused or abandoned as children...[feel] there is nowhere they feel safe. They feel that at any moment something terrible might happen - someone they love might hurt them or leave them. They feel vulnerable and fragile. It takes very little to disrupt their equilibrium. Their moods are intense and erratic, and they are impulsive and self-destructive." Yup, that is me, in a nut shell.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In looking through the list of examples of "destructive early environments," there were a few that applied to me. The first was that "your parents fought all the time and you were caught in the middle." Another one was in relation to my father: "You became enmeshed with a parent and were expected to act as a substitute spouse." There was also a wide swing in my family between being "overprotected" and "parents not setting appropriate limits."</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Each lifetrap has an understandable origin in childhood. Abandonment is one of the lifetraps related</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> to a lack of safety or security in your childhood family. </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">The abandonment lifetrap is the feeling that the people you love will leave you, and you will end up emotionally isolated forever, without emotional support, connection, strength, direction, or protection.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">There are a number of possible origins of the abandonment lifetrap, and I will try to explain the ones that I think most likely apply to me. </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In most cases abandonment starts early, because it often takes place before a child can talk. This makes it difficult to identify and verbalize as an adult, but I will do my best.</span></div>
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<i><b>The first origin of abandonment is that your <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">mother was separated from you for a long period of time when you were a child, or you were raised by nannies.</span></b></i></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">One of the origins of abandonment is the absence of <i>one</i> person who consistently serves as a maternal figure. A child needs the stable presence of one caregiver, particularly during the first years. It doesn't have to be a parent, but if there is constant turnover it causes disruption. </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">My mother wrote some memories for my brother and I, and from that I can piece together what life was like in my first few months and years.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me at eight months having a bath in the enamel basin</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">When my mother was married at the age of 36, it was 1963. I was born a little more than a year later and she expected that, like most women of the day, she would stay at home and be a mother and homemaker. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">But it was the busy time for my father's photography studio, leading up to Christmas. So my mother brought me, as a newborn, to the studio so she could help my father. She'd leave me in a car bed and put me "somewhere in the studio," while she ran errands for Dad - and hoped to get back in time to nurse me. She said I was an easy baby and "didn't seem to mind the wear and tear of being dragged off to the office every day." They did that until after Christmas; I would be two months old by that time. It hadn't taken long for my mother, being in the studio every day, to realize that my father was not going to be able to support this new family on the profits from his studio. That she would have to go back to work.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica";">In </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1964 there was no maternity leave for new mothers. Fortunately my mother had been successful in her young career working as a scientist at the National Research Council. When I was two months old she </span>got part-time work doing research at Fisheries. At the end of the three-month contract she got a full-time job in the Biochemistry Department at Dalhousie University, first in paediatric research and then in the Med School, and worked there until my brother was born three years later.</div>
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From how my mother tells it, she had a very difficult time finding a caregiver to come to our home. The babysitter she did find had a child in the first year she was there. Mom later told me that she felt that the sitter had been neglectful, that she brought her own child and ignored me. When the sitter got pregnant again she decided not to continue working and Mom was on the hunt for a sitter again.</div>
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With no luck finding someone to come to our home, Mom eventually found a daycare program. At the same time she approached an older woman, a neighbour, who said she might be interested in babysitting. It was decided that since I loved the daycare I would go there a few days a week, and have a few days a week with Mrs. Scott. She was probably the first consistent and attentive caregiver I had and some of my fondest memories were with Mrs. Scott. After she moved away I wrote letters to her for years, probably until I was in university. It was very touching for me that Mrs. Scott's son was the minister at my mother's church and presided over her memorial service.</div>
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<i><b>Another origin of the abandonment lifetrap is that you lost the attention of a parent when a brother or sister was born.</b></i></div>
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When I was three years old my mother entered the hospital to deliver my younger brother Thomas. My mother had antibodies to my brother's blood (called Rh factor) so she had to deliver early. The surgery was scheduled just before Chritsmas. My father would be busy at the studio during the holiday rush again, so my mother had made arrangements with a number of different people to babysit, and had them scheduled for days and evenings. </div>
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After my mom went to the hospital, my Aunt Mary, my father's older sister, asked my Dad and I for dinner, and then asked me if I wanted to stay with <i>her</i> for Christmas. Of course I said, "Yes." I've mentioned before that she was my favourite aunt and her husband performed our wedding service. My mother and I talked about this many years later and we both agreed that Aunt Mary, having known her brother for a long time, probably knew that I wouldn't get cared for very well at home, alone with my father.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, three-years-old, at Christmas with my Aunt Mary on the right</td></tr>
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My brother had a blood transfusion immediately after delivery and Mom didn't see him for two days. Other mothers had their babies brought to them so they could nurse but not Mom; she said it was hard to adjust to that, but even harder to go home and leave him there! Thomas had half-a-dozen blood transfusions in his first week, and had to stay in the hospital for a full month, even though mom was discharged after ten days.</div>
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My mom was home with me then, but every day she would call my dad at the studio and say, "I need to go to the hospital <i>now</i> to see this baby!" Dad would rush home and stay with me while Mom went to the hospital (they only had one car and being a child they couldn't bring me to the maternity hospital). Every day she could <i>see</i> Thomas, but only through a window, and she wasn't able to <i>touch</i> him. She could see that he was getting stronger every day, and slowly his jaundiced colour was disappearing. <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Being a mother now, I can only imagine how painful it must be to have a newborn baby and not have him <i>with</i> you! What kind of effect would that have on you?</span></div>
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Even though baby Thomas was home after a month, his iron was still low; at the end of two months he <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">needed another blood transfusion. At that time, when Thomas was two months old, Mom went back to work and there was a new babysitter. Mom wrote about this time, "She wasn't the greatest babysitter in the world , unfortunately. She liked Thomas better than she liked Sheila, and also brought a nine-year old granddaughter with her on a number of occasions when this little girl was not in school. She didn't bring any toys, which meant Sheila had to share without a reciprocal arrangement, and that just wasn't very satisfactory. Anyway, she didn't last long." And the search for a caregiver began anew.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">When Thomas was about ten months old my mother hired Mrs. Chaddock who was with us until I was thirteen. Mom was pleased because she would take us for walks, whereas previous sitters had apparently watch soap operas most of the day. And my brother then had a consistent caregiver.</span></div>
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<b><i>Another origin of the abandonment lifetrap, especially significant for me, is that your parents fought so much that you worried the family would fall apart.</i></b></div>
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I <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">hated when my parents fought. And they fought a lot. Usually about finances. I think. In the morning I could hear them arguing down in the kitchen. In the evening I could hear them arguing in bed - my bedroom was next to theirs. I wanted so badly to go and fix it! At one point I found my mother literally banging her head against a cupboard door. I now understand that she was just fed up, but It scared me that the person who was supposed to give me strength was so vulnerable. </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">And then there</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> were the times when the arguing got so bad that one of my parents would get in the car and drive away. It scared me SO much! And I usually ended up yelling at the parent who was still there, blaming them driving the other person to escape - and abandon me.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I lived in fear that my parents would get a divorce. If they divorced I would lose one of them. I </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">suppose I knew that we would have to go with Mom, because she was the only person with an income. But I also felt it was my job to take care of my Dad; I was his emotional spouse. How could I do that if I lived with my mom? When I look back at that, from the position of an adult and a parent, I can only imagine the conflict that must have created in my head! So it became my mission, to prevent my parents from separating.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">When my mother was 64 she lost her sight. She couldn't work anymore or drive. And she had to move out of our family home to an apartment that had bus access. My father refused to leave the family home. They separated - after being married for over 25 years. And I had an nervous breakdown, or</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> what they now call a Major Depressive Episode</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">. Their marriage had ended, and I had failed at my life's mission. And I got therapy for the depression and my eating disorder.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">It has not gone unnoticed that the arguing with Mike seems to reflect what was so destructive to me as a child; unfortunately, this is what happens with lifetraps, we repeat these patterns, and it makes it very difficult to change them.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">As Young explained in his book, a child needs a secure, stable family environment, where parents are predictably available, and physically and emotionally there for the child. My parents' marriage was not a stable base of support for our family. My mother was busy putting food on the table, as well as taking night classes, doing volunteer work, sewing, knitting, reading, etc. And my father was unpredictable. He made promises he never kept, and made plans that were never fulfilled. It was a constant cycle of hope, and then despair. Neither of my parents knew how to support me emotionally, mostly as a result of things that happened in <i>their</i> childhoods. I know that they did the best they could, with what they knew, at that time. But that doesn't change the fact that they were not able to be there for me in the way that I needed.</span></div>
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So where do I go from here?</div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In the first chapter of his book, Young explains the process of change, "The lifetrap approach involves <i>continually confronting</i> ourselves." And promises to, "show you how to <i>recognize</i> [lifetraps], how to understand their <i>origins</i>, and how to <i>change</i> them." He adds, "</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">We will teach you how to track your lifetraps as they play themselves out in your life, and how to counter them repeatedly until these patterns loosen their grip on you." I have my work cut out for me; first of all, </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">learning not to overreact, and secondly, working on mindfulness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.</span></div>
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When I left the Day Hospital program, I asked the staff (social worker, occupational therapist and psychiatrist) what I needed in terms of therapy or a therapist once I was discharged. All three of them said I needed to find a therapist who wasn't married to one form of therapy, supporting Young's contention: "I have come to believe that integrating the best components of several therapies is far more effective than any one alone."</div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">One important piece of advice from Young's chapter on abandonment, one that is particularly relevant for me was, "When you find a partner who is stable and committed, trust him/her. Believe that he/she is there for you forever, and will not leave." The staff also suggested that, in the midst of our busy lives, that we make time to check in with each other nightly, to maintain that connection.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGleHfLcOyj9ZvhV4bgeYGOp3JdJObgJXf0k5uhlwzOKZEpI5t5yIX3YPvcngW_IHWZcrwfp1B5P_Owpdmh1dJonkmCc8rr116f0B3uNRJT2qKos4h1GiZamBoqILu1YkAfrOsBm7uD80/s640/blogger-image--701148229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGleHfLcOyj9ZvhV4bgeYGOp3JdJObgJXf0k5uhlwzOKZEpI5t5yIX3YPvcngW_IHWZcrwfp1B5P_Owpdmh1dJonkmCc8rr116f0B3uNRJT2qKos4h1GiZamBoqILu1YkAfrOsBm7uD80/s640/blogger-image--701148229.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo, that I keep on my dresser, is Mike on our wedding day, twenty years ago</td></tr>
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There is no reason for me to be afraid that Mike is going to abandon me. He is one of the most reliable, dependable, loyal and honest people you could ever meet. He has seen me through recovery from my eating disorder - twice. He was there when I went off work on stress leave. He was there when I was suicidal, and he was never sure what he would find when he got home from work. He was there, at my side, doing full-time <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/two-babies-two-parents-many.html">parenting</a>, for the first eight months after our twins were born. He was there when I was thrown into parenting my aging mother. He was there when we had to pay off a massive <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/02/the-chinese-new-year-hong-bao-that.html">debt</a>. He was there when each of my parents died and all the grief, anger and sadness that followed. He was there when I was so <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/02/bellies-and-babies-and-girlie-parts.html">ill</a> that I was practically bed-ridden for two years. And he is still here even when I'm not functioning at full capacity. He has not left.</div>
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I am so tempted to write, "He has not left YET." But I am going to <i>trust</i> that "he will always love me," and remember why I have the everlasting love charm.</div>
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Now Mike knows that when I have a panic attack it's not really about him. There is no rational fear that he will leave me, just an emotional trigger. He just needs to give me a hug and remind me, "I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere."</div>
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Of course we avoid hugging when he is driving. Instead he puts his hand on my knee, to reassure me.</div>
Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-39066806589199383112017-02-23T12:43:00.000-05:002017-02-23T13:08:06.764-05:00How the Hopi helps with housework<div style="text-align: left;">
You know your bathroom is disgusting when your neighbour's daughter, who has autism, will not pee in your toilet. But I have discovered a strategy that helps me overcome the shame, and let's me tackle the housework without resentment.</div>
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By the way, to figure out how to get this toilet bowl clean I had to watch alot of Kim and Aggie of the British show "How Clean is Your House?" The secret was a pumice stone that could scrub the stains off the porcelain without scratching it - who knew?!!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh664B2tybDV8pV6lt7rXUQWSQRTMUxKuHA_hP-Vicv7pq5qx3B9Dlzzl3w0DVY2MKzS_ynnEd-srW395btH0p2AtgqSneQGlQuMyJRt37ps_XB0r3oIuuXLrlyCTzPu7txVyXfoON5sFA/s1600/IMG_0318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh664B2tybDV8pV6lt7rXUQWSQRTMUxKuHA_hP-Vicv7pq5qx3B9Dlzzl3w0DVY2MKzS_ynnEd-srW395btH0p2AtgqSneQGlQuMyJRt37ps_XB0r3oIuuXLrlyCTzPu7txVyXfoON5sFA/s200/IMG_0318.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Before"</td></tr>
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I hope that I have <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/clean-up-with-tea-cup.html">previously</a> established that I am not a hoarder. And I'm not a hoarder in denial - really! But I do have a problem with STUFF! Sorting stuff, putting away stuff, and cleaning stuff. And, with five years of poor health, things had really piled up, literally and figuratively. When you deal with depression, tasks that are routine for most people can feel overwhelming – washing the dishes, doing the laundry, opening the mail, filing papers, or... cleaning the bathroom.<br />
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When I would look around me and see all the <em>stuff</em> that I had failed to do, I would beat myself up for letting this happen, worry that I would never get it all done, feel guilty and overwhelmed, and stick my head back in that hole in the ground. I believe it's called denial. (Remember, one of the ways to get your head out of the ground is to dig your way out like the dung beetle or <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/05/an-essential-feel-better-lesson-from.html">scarab</a>.) When I recognized how difficult it was to get on top of the housework, I used one of my first knock-off beads to remind me of the importance of creating a home that is comfortable, safe, and peaceful. I later replaced this with the Pandora Hopi charm on my "Lucerne Recovery" bracelet.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZx5TRjVEamWUNrgV85zK4c8tyMgQTRWFsWsOmy_YOm1qQuKR71s5QYcIdvSZhAgxW0V8EpyJe0TH_qfJdbkhQV_qKogllcRJ_OJ1lmFKkdPUB5n1wN72PQJDyd6NxEad0PS5UONxkMDs/s1600/tulip+dangle+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZx5TRjVEamWUNrgV85zK4c8tyMgQTRWFsWsOmy_YOm1qQuKR71s5QYcIdvSZhAgxW0V8EpyJe0TH_qfJdbkhQV_qKogllcRJ_OJ1lmFKkdPUB5n1wN72PQJDyd6NxEad0PS5UONxkMDs/s320/tulip+dangle+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hopi charm, to the right of the tulip with the dangle</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMkhrVSTVqibwsLAGfwbQOgW9KIOJmw3O_vSLPogonxl0ZPQlt5i3RvWQDc3Kdi_oOso6-ezOZDO5BLbRN8ZHAK_eGcjX_65FHrHXgnvpz9HNvS9r53o9iLi1P3E_DA_cHZ54P9PbbBA/s1600/1638712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMkhrVSTVqibwsLAGfwbQOgW9KIOJmw3O_vSLPogonxl0ZPQlt5i3RvWQDc3Kdi_oOso6-ezOZDO5BLbRN8ZHAK_eGcjX_65FHrHXgnvpz9HNvS9r53o9iLi1P3E_DA_cHZ54P9PbbBA/s1600/1638712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMkhrVSTVqibwsLAGfwbQOgW9KIOJmw3O_vSLPogonxl0ZPQlt5i3RvWQDc3Kdi_oOso6-ezOZDO5BLbRN8ZHAK_eGcjX_65FHrHXgnvpz9HNvS9r53o9iLi1P3E_DA_cHZ54P9PbbBA/s320/1638712.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
When I first started this journey of recovery with Pandora, I wanted this Hopi charm because it reminded me of my grandmother Holmes, or "Granny" as we called her. She spent her winters in Arizona and had a string of silver beads that I loved, made by the expert silversmiths of the Native-American Hopi. As I shared in a previous <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2017/02/one-womans-march.html">post</a> about her, she always liked to show me her jewellery and tell me stories of the places she'd visited in the world, where the jewellery was from.<br />
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Oh, I just realized something! She started me on this journey of having jewellery for "unforgettable moments," as Pandora calls them. I don't know who inherited those beads, so for now, in addition to the Hopi bead, I have some earrings in that style and a turquoise Mii bracelet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSpw1BTagdyN86aKAEzwgcu8h0nLn5pXBPx_swgQB0YJWvuCcIuNifQwbixEgPfBxMkYxLM0DDK12vMTwP-xpFKsAn3YSpADIlPMigrfP6m6jhC63KFzGCDc00o71vqHRNXx500s6RGQ/s1600/IMG_3555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSpw1BTagdyN86aKAEzwgcu8h0nLn5pXBPx_swgQB0YJWvuCcIuNifQwbixEgPfBxMkYxLM0DDK12vMTwP-xpFKsAn3YSpADIlPMigrfP6m6jhC63KFzGCDc00o71vqHRNXx500s6RGQ/s320/IMG_3555.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
But I digress. When I looked into "Hopi," I discovered that there was another reason for me to have this charm.<br />
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The word "Hopi" means "behaving one," one who is mannered, civilized, peaceable, polite, who adheres to the "Hopi Way." Wikipedia describes the Hopi Way as "a concept deeply rooted in the culture's religion, spirituality, and its view of morality and ethics. To 'be Hopi' is to strive toward this concept, a state of reverence and respect for all things, to be at peace with these things, and to live in accordance with the instructions of the Creator or Caretaker of the Earth." For the Hopi, all of daily life is part of their religion, and their belief is to help others improve their lives.<br />
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When I started to dig out of this disorganized and dirty mess a few years ago, I tried making schedules for myself. In my agenda I would put "Paid" and "Unpaid" work, which of course I then resented. Then I scheduled time for "chores," which of course made them feel like... well... a chore. So now I schedule time to do things that are "Done with Love." It's similar to when someone really bothers you, and instead of cursing them, you bless them. So I started with a daily "Bless This Kitchen" and then moved on to a weekly "Bless This Bathroom." It really does change your outlook and attitude.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRT1qnhC7ECWs3uD0nNy2qXu2j1bL2TbpTyvWpwS2M1lrxgiNcdvfnKXV0mub7_gUOOd3Yj4qvR5r103mZVGUqkL_rHrICUfUwpxg7WIbCnwU8qOzvkGSw01DTYJtLboJF8PyCrSXOEM0/s1600/IMG_3919.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRT1qnhC7ECWs3uD0nNy2qXu2j1bL2TbpTyvWpwS2M1lrxgiNcdvfnKXV0mub7_gUOOd3Yj4qvR5r103mZVGUqkL_rHrICUfUwpxg7WIbCnwU8qOzvkGSw01DTYJtLboJF8PyCrSXOEM0/s320/IMG_3919.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My typical morning, the blue representing self-care</td></tr>
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Rather than beat myself up, and get anxious or overwhelmed, the Hopi charm reminds me to "practice the religion of daily life and be at peace with things." Or, to keep the affirmation shorter, I say "Don't Worry, be Hopi." (You have to watch the video so you can use the correct accent when you say it.)<br />
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YouTube video of Bobby McFerrin's "Don't Worry, Be Happy"</div>
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Seems appropriate that the late Robin Williams is in this video</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1D97tVcVDU4PFbb_qni581GHwgs3LW2zla8GXu_uJykr5evW9T7HXU3QqCiYX3WB0Ty4c8SczutwczGJTJ62AX0YCtPeWsTpYjxGI7I6oE-GBo-bDvq7pxYvqq6Oe1CcjoKRBsm4Cos/s1600/Hopi+collage+with+text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1D97tVcVDU4PFbb_qni581GHwgs3LW2zla8GXu_uJykr5evW9T7HXU3QqCiYX3WB0Ty4c8SczutwczGJTJ62AX0YCtPeWsTpYjxGI7I6oE-GBo-bDvq7pxYvqq6Oe1CcjoKRBsm4Cos/s400/Hopi+collage+with+text.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have spent so long <em>worrying</em> about the mess of our home, and feeling <em>ashamed</em> of it, that I didn't even realize how much it has improved. When my daughter and her friends wanted to start a cat account on Instagram (@cats_of_the_truenorth i.e. Canada), I said my only stipulation was that pictures of <em>our</em> cats could not show how dirty our house is. When she started posting photos I was pleasantly surprised to see that our bathroom was clean - not perfect, but clean!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMsRrNv0e7ZeMkeYQkuEMcQNW4HjXrLwYMBMxGlboy6rASaRRzKP2KniHDtO6Dgu1AzAiQO0Ce_eaODdM1pFNKsFGm3wp-AVGkQ_bgCMKJ3mfKkzLVD4YsUDITMdD9N4QxehMDhLvSEY/s1600/IMG_3915.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMsRrNv0e7ZeMkeYQkuEMcQNW4HjXrLwYMBMxGlboy6rASaRRzKP2KniHDtO6Dgu1AzAiQO0Ce_eaODdM1pFNKsFGm3wp-AVGkQ_bgCMKJ3mfKkzLVD4YsUDITMdD9N4QxehMDhLvSEY/s320/IMG_3915.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo credit Taylor Hayden</td></tr>
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In her book "Simple Abundance: a daybook of comfort and joy," (which I mentioned in a previous <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/10/this-thanksgiving-develop-attitude-of.html">post</a> about gratitude) author Sara Ban Breathnach says, "The Quakers, or members of the Religious Society of Friends... refuse to segment their lives into the Sacred and the secular. Quakers believe that all of life's daily experiences are spiritual in nature, from preparing a family meal to protesting political policy." She quotes the British writer George Gorman who observed that "the essence of Quaker spirituality is the certainty that everything we do has religious significance. It is not cutting ourselves off from life but entering deeply and fully into it."<br />
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This is similar to the practice of Mindfulness, which can be described as "paying attention on purpose." Practicing mindfulness of daily living is to do each thing with all of your attention, intentionally bringing your mind to the present, even if that "present" is the enviable job of cleaning the toilet.<br />
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I have the "Bless This House" charm sitting in my jewellery box, waiting until we complete the Clean Sweep of the <em>whole</em> house. The charm will require, quite fittingly, a lick and a polish before I can add it to my all-silver timebead bracelet.<br />
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I am pleased to say that we now "Bless This Bathroom" every week, each of the four of us with a different task (as well as other non-bathroom jobs) as part of our "Saturday chores." We are now in the maintenance phase! And Yes, it's <em>me</em> that does the toilet - and nobody is afraid to pee in it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsPYpKLBex-FA5QOz9YqR4MC0jqhjRZJ417UcvWYOEvVR0Su5uJMuANyEyuk4awqfnUr9C4Zlar-rBvc5qYwP1zTTvP6BoqzSEQa3_e6c9lPiYGRDU-Ygk11Ehezu76NMZr8udoDDmDg/s1600/IMG_3903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsPYpKLBex-FA5QOz9YqR4MC0jqhjRZJ417UcvWYOEvVR0Su5uJMuANyEyuk4awqfnUr9C4Zlar-rBvc5qYwP1zTTvP6BoqzSEQa3_e6c9lPiYGRDU-Ygk11Ehezu76NMZr8udoDDmDg/s400/IMG_3903.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What I wear with my Lucerne Recovery bracelet</td></tr>
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<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/clean-up-with-tea-cup.html">Clean up with the tea cup</a> - a story about the start of the Clean Sweep, with "Before" and "After" photos of our sunporch, and my most important affirmation in dealing with negative self-talk about the state of our home - and the charm to represent it.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/02/bellies-and-babies-and-girlie-parts.html">Bellies and babies and "girlie parts"</a> - a story about one of the reasons our house got so messy, the health problems I battled, including those things that women just don't talk about - and the charm to represent it.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/i-have-battled-eating-disorder-and.html">My Pandora journey of recovery - how it all began</a> - a story about my first knock-off charms, how I use charms as rewards, and how charms help me in my recovery.<br />
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You can search the blog, at the bottom of the website version, using key words. You can also see all of the stories about the charms from my first bracelet by clicking on the label for "Lucerne Recovery bracelet."<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Photo Gallery</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-mfTdMYInNw6GNxhwP62lqpFItiLmsjS93GMjVAhaCTYoiypIert-MsHuPlFyZKvyB2W69mJK3HUAO4DxNsLzipLHYTMzBhwdbh0OWw0MXznsAl6dtxTMQuh6Br-mTFNCVPkNQdv7JE/s1600/Dirty+Bathroom++Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-mfTdMYInNw6GNxhwP62lqpFItiLmsjS93GMjVAhaCTYoiypIert-MsHuPlFyZKvyB2W69mJK3HUAO4DxNsLzipLHYTMzBhwdbh0OWw0MXznsAl6dtxTMQuh6Br-mTFNCVPkNQdv7JE/s400/Dirty+Bathroom++Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Before"</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySXJoLQkoNuc4hNWn7iPilc3MgxSlxxz4fE7JGOCT5EAD7-OmMATXznwI3Tq1ejNsenLGUwL53Xx1yJAapZqK-EWwtt7Rw1azy-97wgYTr04IsXsNMdrJK5NzYT1mQZRawR7YaiViVEE/s1600/IMG_0541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySXJoLQkoNuc4hNWn7iPilc3MgxSlxxz4fE7JGOCT5EAD7-OmMATXznwI3Tq1ejNsenLGUwL53Xx1yJAapZqK-EWwtt7Rw1azy-97wgYTr04IsXsNMdrJK5NzYT1mQZRawR7YaiViVEE/s320/IMG_0541.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "After"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkcYk8vCfLIDlYY5fSe-64usxMzeSjTx7UV0LTJ7ayj4Zw7fTBfjGdIql9KLthL_WiWdvaKoYoPEfi8nHzVYTJy4M5SMWEhqjhV5lL2_JNbHuIoUB9g43rvkYvMoyd2Ees-Qyw4LF2tUc/s1600/IMG_0320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkcYk8vCfLIDlYY5fSe-64usxMzeSjTx7UV0LTJ7ayj4Zw7fTBfjGdIql9KLthL_WiWdvaKoYoPEfi8nHzVYTJy4M5SMWEhqjhV5lL2_JNbHuIoUB9g43rvkYvMoyd2Ees-Qyw4LF2tUc/s320/IMG_0320.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "After"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjws1OAtqxeYo1MQR4w1SGU5HrrgFDzoQvvuafeeURrqVG-ckXa0pXL0pKzKbT3AnnnT4u5yQbHGUX5OI02DrauNi2vfZ4mnzhd5iNyQLmCwmadfJA05H72fhkBwVs7bOG5SF1bR1oKVG8/s1600/1457726_10152762492970731_4119807492849956180_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjws1OAtqxeYo1MQR4w1SGU5HrrgFDzoQvvuafeeURrqVG-ckXa0pXL0pKzKbT3AnnnT4u5yQbHGUX5OI02DrauNi2vfZ4mnzhd5iNyQLmCwmadfJA05H72fhkBwVs7bOG5SF1bR1oKVG8/s320/1457726_10152762492970731_4119807492849956180_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shower curtain rings to match the handles on the sink faucets</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNkpLnWzU2ADIpWhSH7KhAnD6O3kICLBc75L24aYDmrwlP5Ruk7Mh3VS-KBGeBtnvUSktdeNgV7-IQdZcdrBNzhTR4fStDmQYBWqj7-CPBhFX5fV1CxTWghRf6z-bllVaxnJmDEH1HXM/s1600/IMG_0559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNkpLnWzU2ADIpWhSH7KhAnD6O3kICLBc75L24aYDmrwlP5Ruk7Mh3VS-KBGeBtnvUSktdeNgV7-IQdZcdrBNzhTR4fStDmQYBWqj7-CPBhFX5fV1CxTWghRf6z-bllVaxnJmDEH1HXM/s320/IMG_0559.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a clean bathroom with a drawer unit under the sink for supplies and toiletries<br />
a garbage AND recycling bin to keep the toilet paper rolls off the floor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi260FVyBnQonalaYuDX0rW8MRFMlz3eq7G25dfvO_jvQMe5EWCNvAZr6oBhT6XnRa__mSDinU5iNKxCBwmCkdvlKGI8_roY11kyyXo_6DKnbPmBdSMB66970NrZyleQKy4qL0iYwy_Y_s/s1600/1796598_10152762490625731_1223268501300663928_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi260FVyBnQonalaYuDX0rW8MRFMlz3eq7G25dfvO_jvQMe5EWCNvAZr6oBhT6XnRa__mSDinU5iNKxCBwmCkdvlKGI8_roY11kyyXo_6DKnbPmBdSMB66970NrZyleQKy4qL0iYwy_Y_s/s320/1796598_10152762490625731_1223268501300663928_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this angel ornaments was the inspiration for the bathroom colours</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUXMzFILdATztDyrGV5_W15ueSvUQWj_Ey61l4ZEyvr6ls4VRzjEEUPlTJMX_2oCDVZCvc5ZAeZOq6jc2lFunu5qOR5MeNgxpW4yJborQfnMZKhe0SctxZSrzAJDg8x5Ey9R8kVUch2A/s1600/10402010_10152762491720731_5555500596653028339_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUXMzFILdATztDyrGV5_W15ueSvUQWj_Ey61l4ZEyvr6ls4VRzjEEUPlTJMX_2oCDVZCvc5ZAeZOq6jc2lFunu5qOR5MeNgxpW4yJborQfnMZKhe0SctxZSrzAJDg8x5Ey9R8kVUch2A/s320/10402010_10152762491720731_5555500596653028339_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martha Stewart curtains in the colour scheme of sage green and lilac</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxwO8cx6tdXNorOMe7xRANrmhW60IMv1dl0DzDBa3ukJd2C4dJhEdCmF-UEPAKdF7sUAPmoXWVqG3mVWujDQhXgT5zf2mEzwq9TyFc0aZ0WQjtSb6wa6pa6zS7IGomPZ51MDzyNv7G-E/s1600/10520687_10152762497485731_2766246232942384677_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxwO8cx6tdXNorOMe7xRANrmhW60IMv1dl0DzDBa3ukJd2C4dJhEdCmF-UEPAKdF7sUAPmoXWVqG3mVWujDQhXgT5zf2mEzwq9TyFc0aZ0WQjtSb6wa6pa6zS7IGomPZ51MDzyNv7G-E/s320/10520687_10152762497485731_2766246232942384677_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">an antique plate of my mom's with purple violets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgak_qg6smK3cxiPaDcu2ETuPZJeFTkPleAPIda-y-BbKyCpxZoYKZm2dyaoo8FFgDRa0cBGWB6xEKrj7bDvme4g17qeOaawFkk5gBUKSoWDAttAv5_g5L5vsKmEsTWm5f7MbF3WdG2yVg/s1600/10553416_10152762496230731_4306812585657137457_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgak_qg6smK3cxiPaDcu2ETuPZJeFTkPleAPIda-y-BbKyCpxZoYKZm2dyaoo8FFgDRa0cBGWB6xEKrj7bDvme4g17qeOaawFkk5gBUKSoWDAttAv5_g5L5vsKmEsTWm5f7MbF3WdG2yVg/s320/10553416_10152762496230731_4306812585657137457_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Wedgwood sage green "Jasperware" plate from my in-laws</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMG0qKT6RFJgxRQxTQxT-FTXFsWiNxhyM5R2b1cjnA83hFWh2sJEJ0JyTyLr4IkOp-Tvu2NbLLdPfpb2CXIP8lYdoJQmsLCV4lzTw51_1oYgJgaWwhrPEnpzfUtStTfRGVhIASNHIbDAY/s1600/10410621_10152762500280731_2686866975809763564_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMG0qKT6RFJgxRQxTQxT-FTXFsWiNxhyM5R2b1cjnA83hFWh2sJEJ0JyTyLr4IkOp-Tvu2NbLLdPfpb2CXIP8lYdoJQmsLCV4lzTw51_1oYgJgaWwhrPEnpzfUtStTfRGVhIASNHIbDAY/s320/10410621_10152762500280731_2686866975809763564_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">original hexagonal bathroom tiles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLfmhubvZkkkv2VO_1kkILDdNnNk0AEbjULVg6ivMOR79Q0QDFAoRw4Ly5yCAc0VRRDUlCUK87k0PLxG-XJ2WTMrGP3thXj3jIH7ogADo89rAvnY24MvOUCDYZP_e0atvPOZZE1Fvqyk/s1600/10659213_10152762499020731_5008885141104749530_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLfmhubvZkkkv2VO_1kkILDdNnNk0AEbjULVg6ivMOR79Q0QDFAoRw4Ly5yCAc0VRRDUlCUK87k0PLxG-XJ2WTMrGP3thXj3jIH7ogADo89rAvnY24MvOUCDYZP_e0atvPOZZE1Fvqyk/s320/10659213_10152762499020731_5008885141104749530_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a new white shower curtain as a reward for cleaning the bathroom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-hdt1wZuPCNdZ4OX1-1wzyBjbzD_mH_tpc7JBCDHKCDvT2XknZ5f7A-CxMe7Udtj9zVH8Up3nbdf0fR5lYHHQoVlXCeM-sFbAuV7eriJdG4iffdpll_PGWxTEe-y9jtePoobbn38Tulw/s1600/IMG_3904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-hdt1wZuPCNdZ4OX1-1wzyBjbzD_mH_tpc7JBCDHKCDvT2XknZ5f7A-CxMe7Udtj9zVH8Up3nbdf0fR5lYHHQoVlXCeM-sFbAuV7eriJdG4iffdpll_PGWxTEe-y9jtePoobbn38Tulw/s320/IMG_3904.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IKEA's brilliant solution to the tub mat<br />
that would always fall off the edge of the tub,<br />
drip onto the floor, or stay down in the tub and get mouldy</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;"><div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtEz48WvzuHaRJmaTMeiofXwbAK4q3rr17jkdRjwabp7P4BW4qUiMfdBIfFK8s1huUAy9C2_aK2nINxpvbTVDC0quccs4lLGkOchY7rpUJkONVgG8nLyyKSn6rAIh6xwGxZnKdbAOlrM/s1600/IMG_0321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtEz48WvzuHaRJmaTMeiofXwbAK4q3rr17jkdRjwabp7P4BW4qUiMfdBIfFK8s1huUAy9C2_aK2nINxpvbTVDC0quccs4lLGkOchY7rpUJkONVgG8nLyyKSn6rAIh6xwGxZnKdbAOlrM/s320/IMG_0321.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a tray for the back of the toilet for candle holders and Kleenex</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FssaBkn5ys5Wzpy_oPQnRtHQzoijBR4U337fw2vIbuSotxX0b21SOwVAbhFMoMn7_pe3vS92f9w1ipWuN_9AH9zVGalHIdh7Nm0w_4z706Q3T6wyQmIsuOrVxm1gLIaTGngc2R0QmJc/s1600/1911619_10152762500960731_5436315251187481745_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FssaBkn5ys5Wzpy_oPQnRtHQzoijBR4U337fw2vIbuSotxX0b21SOwVAbhFMoMn7_pe3vS92f9w1ipWuN_9AH9zVGalHIdh7Nm0w_4z706Q3T6wyQmIsuOrVxm1gLIaTGngc2R0QmJc/s320/1911619_10152762500960731_5436315251187481745_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a few purple accents on shelves above the toilet</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XRwzW3GbGoKpZPzZS-kL2j49CP080EFLrCbpnp6OG3S7GZDGPdpvTCqfC5yssIrU4XJraYzH8CPBZCCgv_oCQ0paSBoYlMxzCjs4TYcmKLBS05kPxfFJtgQNuyaD32pDGvn4yfwy4RE/s1600/IMG_0576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XRwzW3GbGoKpZPzZS-kL2j49CP080EFLrCbpnp6OG3S7GZDGPdpvTCqfC5yssIrU4XJraYzH8CPBZCCgv_oCQ0paSBoYlMxzCjs4TYcmKLBS05kPxfFJtgQNuyaD32pDGvn4yfwy4RE/s400/IMG_0576.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "After"</td></tr>
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Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-45029753852396433052017-02-15T16:38:00.000-05:002017-02-15T16:39:00.169-05:00A love story and a poem - a reflection on Valentine's Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0I9qk0UmJyAsZqYX-vWQZDhmzL1eC2bZPR72KApuxNNbum8QN-J7MpnCR4OJ57mFKRR_aCOKWNNz57bVyMwvYn2aBwgrAQVQgmrfkwIaXBJe1Iz_MZCMiYZH7MQLoX3LtNkjmP9Cp3KE/s1600/IMG_3838.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0I9qk0UmJyAsZqYX-vWQZDhmzL1eC2bZPR72KApuxNNbum8QN-J7MpnCR4OJ57mFKRR_aCOKWNNz57bVyMwvYn2aBwgrAQVQgmrfkwIaXBJe1Iz_MZCMiYZH7MQLoX3LtNkjmP9Cp3KE/s400/IMG_3838.PNG" width="400" /></a>After being married for almost 25 years I was surprised to find that the best description of marriage I've ever seen was in a book on my teenaged daughter's shelves. Sometimes inspiration comes from the most unlikely places, including novels, poems or fables. I was even inspired to write a poem of my own, as a gift to my husband on Valentine's Day.<br />
<br />
One of my earliest charms, the red vines, was a gift from my husband for my "Always and Forever" bracelet, about our love and marriage. I had this vague notion that vines could represent a marriage, but since I hadn't written a blog post about the charm, I hadn't put my thoughts into words - until yesterday, Valentine's Day. Now, in doing some research and writing this post, I have discovered that I was on to something; my instincts were correct.<br />
<br />
If you had asked me over 25 years ago what makes a marriage I would have given you this poem "On Marriage" by Kahlil Gibran. In fact we had a friend read this in our wedding ceremony. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCqR9Suc6AGOmoo9fn8cmrYsNqya1hjmZYiMpClp9e9ThgaoprudhAh6sbCajXxsr7VyNn9a3y7X1y6ielGSnAfcHy2FtZdf2ezTtpVxyzUg5juWgQa2bokMEtWAOO31AjJJMjHZ0nSA/s1600/Khalil-Gibran-on-marriage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCqR9Suc6AGOmoo9fn8cmrYsNqya1hjmZYiMpClp9e9ThgaoprudhAh6sbCajXxsr7VyNn9a3y7X1y6ielGSnAfcHy2FtZdf2ezTtpVxyzUg5juWgQa2bokMEtWAOO31AjJJMjHZ0nSA/s320/Khalil-Gibran-on-marriage.jpg" width="227" /></a><em>"Love one another, but make not a bond of love:</em><br />
<em>Let it rather be a moving seas between the shores of your souls.</em><br />
<em>Fill each other's cup, but drink not from one cup.</em><br />
<em>Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf.</em><br />
<em>Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone.</em><br />
<em>Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music.</em><br />
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<em>Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping. </em><br />
<em>For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts.</em><br />
<em>And stand together, yet not too near together:</em><br />
<em>For the pillars of the temple stand apart,</em><br />
<em>And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow."</em><br />
- Kahlil Gibran<br />
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I wanted us to support each other, nourish each other, and celebrate each other. But I did not want to lose myself. Little did I know that I would not <em>lose</em> myself, but <em>find</em> myself, a new self, changed by the years together.<br />
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And so I came to see that, although we were separate trees, our roots had grown together and our branches had become intertwined, as JRR Tolkien described in this poem to his wife Edith.<br />
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<em>"Lo, Young we are and yet have stood like planted hearts in the great Sun of Love so long (as two fair trees in woodland or in open vale stand utterly entwined and breathe the airs and suck the very light together) that we have become as one, deep rooted in the soil of Life and tangled in the sweet growth."</em><br />
- JRR Tolkien<br />
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Turns out that my idea, that a marriage could be represented by vines, was not such an original idea after all. The vine has long been seen as symbol of marriage, in particular the vine and the elm tree. In Italy, and other wine-producing countries, they would "grow wine" on trees. It was a common practice, at least into the 20th century, to have orchards of elm trees that were pruned to be used as supports for vines.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuscan country life 1849</td></tr>
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There were many examples in Renaissance literature using the vine and the elm as a symbol of marriage, and fables were created from the association. The stories would tell of an elm tree, that did not produce fruit, inviting a vine to grow among its branches. Although the vine initially declines the offer, after being exposed to the harsh weather, the vine "creeps feebly to the Elm's embrace; and in his arms finds sweet solace; United thus they storms defy. And mutual grace and aid supply." I love this representation of marriage.<br />
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Without the vine, the elm would have nothing except leaves, and would not feel productive. Likewise, without the elm, the vine would trail along the ground and not produce fruit in abundance, and it's fruit would rot.<br />
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Some stories told of a fruitful vine that acknowledges its debt to the little tree that supports it. Some tales say that the vine learns that we often can not rely only on our own resources, a sign that you are not alone. This image is often described as "the living union of a married pair" with grateful dependence and mutual support.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abraham Bloemaert 1620</td></tr>
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Between the 16th and 18th centuries, in many European countries, artists commonly painted the image of the pairing of the vine and the elm. In the myth of Vertumnus and Pomona, Vertumus takes the shape of an old woman and urges the reluctant goddess to marriage by pointing to the vine in her orchard. <br />
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But still, the best description I have ever found, of a loving committed relationship, whether a marriage or not, came from a YA (Young Adult) book: "Allegiant" from one of my 15-year-old daughter's favourite book trilogies (if you haven't read "Divergent" and seen the movies, please do).<br />
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<em>"I used to think that when people fell in love, they just landed where they landed, and they had no choice in the matter afterward. And maybe that's true of beginnings, but t's not true of this, now.</em><br />
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<em>I fell in love with him. But I don't just stay with him by default as if there's no one else available to me. I stay with him because I choose to, every day that I wake up, every day that we fight or lie to each other or disappoint each other. I choose him over and over again, and he chooses me."</em><br />
<em>-</em> Tris from "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth<br />
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Using this quote from "Allegiant" I made this sign for my husband for Valentine's Day last year.</div>
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This year, inspired by poems and fables - and a YA novel - I wrote my husband a poem.</div>
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And when my husband needs reminding (and because The Simpsons is his all-time favourite TV show) I will simply tell him that "I choo-choo-choose you," every day.<br />
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In case you're not familiar with the source of this Valentine, check out this 17 second You Tube video of Lisa's Valentine's Day card for Ralph.</div>
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Or you can take two and a half minutes to listen to Lisa tell the whole "love story" of Lisa and Ralph.</div>
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<strong><em>My Valentine's Day gift</em></strong></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pandora heart charm<br />
"pink bow and lace"<br />
better than flowers<br />
better than chocolate<br />
better than lacy lingerie<br />
on Valentine's Day</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Rose of Hearts"<br />
My work-in-progress representing the year 2017<br />
PANDORA Rose with pearls, moonstones, and mother-of-pearl</td></tr>
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<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/08/my-home-my-marriage-my-husband-and-my.html">My home, my marriage, my husband and my honeymoon</a> - a story about the symbolism of the lighthouse charm and my first attempt at writing a love poem.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/the-deepest-secret-nobody-knows.html">"the deepest secret nobody knows"</a> - a story about how we treat those we love, inspired by an ee cummings poem, and the charm to represent it.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/08/sheila-and-mike-excellent-anniversary.html">Sheila and Mike's Excellent Anniversary Adventure</a> - a story about a colourful outing for our 20th wedding anniversary and the charm I had engraved to remember it.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/10/i-would-say-all-over-again.html">I would say "Yes" all over again</a> - a story about how my husband had to re-enact our engagement, with our kids as witnesses.<br />
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You can search the blog, at the bottom of the website version. Using the label for "Always and Forever bracelet" you can see all of the stories about those charms, about love and marriage.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-65558406565392897202017-02-07T16:26:00.000-05:002017-02-08T13:14:51.589-05:00One woman's marchLast month's Women's March got me thinking about my grandmother who was a feminist and fought sex discrimination in higher education in the 1920's and '30's. I want to share her story with you and tell you why I have the 8-ball charm in her memory.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoy821AptYYpExPZhyphenhyphen4PYssYJ0lf11Kn2yRh2uSXs47LxwJBi5pl-jTBdIdPcmvMuuwYZ5RS8bRkbtYHlpi27fhThXk2CeyZILkFXC6gzbrakM41wuAGFLiOMcgF9zKs5MKDBYKBURZ4I/s1600/IMG_6131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoy821AptYYpExPZhyphenhyphen4PYssYJ0lf11Kn2yRh2uSXs47LxwJBi5pl-jTBdIdPcmvMuuwYZ5RS8bRkbtYHlpi27fhThXk2CeyZILkFXC6gzbrakM41wuAGFLiOMcgF9zKs5MKDBYKBURZ4I/s400/IMG_6131.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 8-ball charm on my "Treasured Hearts" bracelet.</td></tr>
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Almost six years ago at my <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/if-my-father-were-still-alive-he-would.html">father</a>'s funeral I reconnected with cousins that are 20 years older than me. We were talking about my grandmother Holmes, and I recalled her Magic 8-ball. I remembered how she would take this 8-ball out of the deep recesses of a linen closet, with great reverence, and let us ask a question of the Magic 8-ball. We would then turn it over and wait for the answer to magically float to the surface. My cousin John said that she managed to maintain that magic by only letting you ask one question before putting it away until the next visit. I hadn't been aware of that subterfuge, but when I saw that Pandora had an 8-ball charm I knew it was the perfect charm to have in remembrance of my Granny.<br />
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If you're not familiar with the Magic 8-ball, see what happens when Woody asks a question in this clip from Toy Story:<br />
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When my father was just six years old he lost his mother who had died during childbirth. His father remarried when my dad was 13, giving my dad a stepmother.<br />
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Knowing I had this retired Pandora charm coming in the mail I did a little research on my grandmother, Vera Brown Holmes - I Googled her. She was born in 1890, the daughter of a country doctor and attended a private boarding school for girls. She finished high school in 1906 and then studied at Royal Victoria College, which was the women's college (where women both lived and studied) at McGill University in Montreal.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_2JzMNf8ye4vOq6rq6mOavwlJWntog9l4KuaNWOYGtP7bPAJ8pZSL5Qu7TfKhsxifABkOlFjPYE_f4o-bmgWvEIbYAQtaYonOFj3fVgC1i-f2g3bpNaA35CH2-KBcZrsNFv40M47YcA/s1600/Royal+Victoria+College.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_2JzMNf8ye4vOq6rq6mOavwlJWntog9l4KuaNWOYGtP7bPAJ8pZSL5Qu7TfKhsxifABkOlFjPYE_f4o-bmgWvEIbYAQtaYonOFj3fVgC1i-f2g3bpNaA35CH2-KBcZrsNFv40M47YcA/s320/Royal+Victoria+College.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Royal Victoria College 1911</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixKj4gyR8BQ_a3z4dKfbG6aQ3ZIRQ-cbVYr7d4rkBt26-CZ-yEjOQmgGJX1FmEwe2AcOQFaUuvw9rCc69s0hW1nzTghIdB6iDNEE85g0Wfw4PO2oAvo-weHWW0SMco3JQnlitWIHwbqAU/s1600/RVC+college+life+1911.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixKj4gyR8BQ_a3z4dKfbG6aQ3ZIRQ-cbVYr7d4rkBt26-CZ-yEjOQmgGJX1FmEwe2AcOQFaUuvw9rCc69s0hW1nzTghIdB6iDNEE85g0Wfw4PO2oAvo-weHWW0SMco3JQnlitWIHwbqAU/s320/RVC+college+life+1911.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"College Life" at R.V.C.</td></tr>
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I was very excited to find that I had online access to the McGill University archives and the yearbooks from 1911, 1912 and 1913. It was hard to imagine what my grandmother looked like at twenty-something; I just had to see what the fashions were in clothing and hair. In looking through the yearbooks I discovered that the majority of the pages were devoted to men. Women did not study science, medicine or law. Men had a mining society, philosophical society, debating society, French circle, western circle, readers club, electrical club, rifle club - even a mandolin club! Women were not involved in clubs or bands, and the only societies they were engaged in were the Delta Sigma Society (the literacy and debating society), the French Society, and the YMCA ( Young Women's Christian Association).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmo5_IvxopFoY5eZ48bDQ9Qqk0vNoGhBOF_z-uq32icOPOFHJoWV_AyX09dZAd_7W6LRDzX37ROIY-ueltKk0ttXa3jJPntncVnQX0S510diF0xyfwUSpaTp6Di2emTTZlmaj7WWOsRQ/s1600/Delta+Sigma+Pres.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmo5_IvxopFoY5eZ48bDQ9Qqk0vNoGhBOF_z-uq32icOPOFHJoWV_AyX09dZAd_7W6LRDzX37ROIY-ueltKk0ttXa3jJPntncVnQX0S510diF0xyfwUSpaTp6Di2emTTZlmaj7WWOsRQ/s320/Delta+Sigma+Pres.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My grandmother, seated, second from the right, was on the Executive of the Delta Sigma Society.<br />
She was Secretary-Treasurer in 1911, Vice President in 1912 and then President in this photo from 1913.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the far left is my grandmother, her maiden<br />
name Vera Lee Brown. In 1912 she was on the<br />
Executive of the YWCA as President<br />
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There were <em>many</em> pages in the yearbooks with team photos of men in soccer, rugby, football, boxing, wrestling, swimming, water polo and track. For the ladies' athletics there was <em>one</em> page. Their uniform consisted of a white shirt and scarf. Although it might look like the ladies' were wearing pleated skirts they may have been wearing very loose pleated bloomers that cinched below the knee. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My grandmother (top right in this photo from 1912) played on the basketball team</td></tr>
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My grandmother, Vera Lee Brown, received her BA in 1912 (the same year the Titanic sank) and a Master of Arts in 1913 - all before women even had the right to vote in Canada, the United States, or England.<br />
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In the Autumn of 1913 (the same year that women marched on Washington for the right to vote), Vera entered Bryn Mawr College in the US, one of the few institutions that encouraged women to study and become academics. She was a Graduate Scholar in History and received a Fellowship to study in Spain. When war broke out in 1914 Vera's period of study abroad was postponed and she returned to Bryn Mawr. Between the years of 1913 and 1915 Vera had a scholarship and became a Fellow at Bryn Mawr, allowing her to continue her studies in modern European history, American history and political science. In 1916 she accepted a position as a Lecturer in the Department of History at McGill and became a member of the resident staff at Royal Victoria College.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwexOTmloAYMpHDdvFaX7TfM01-25GLs-VY-0lZ62YlH4WhxSOP5KBDwrz0QYYz4HBw7fsVuuU8pDd9TH1t7CbPjY0DZ4b66WX4rbE4sJMNueRrd_jalsZPmtTs2ZZQYChyphenhyphenyp14xqdfa8/s1600/4e100b58-41ea-47a5-98b4-ef2deb884023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwexOTmloAYMpHDdvFaX7TfM01-25GLs-VY-0lZ62YlH4WhxSOP5KBDwrz0QYYz4HBw7fsVuuU8pDd9TH1t7CbPjY0DZ4b66WX4rbE4sJMNueRrd_jalsZPmtTs2ZZQYChyphenhyphenyp14xqdfa8/s1600/4e100b58-41ea-47a5-98b4-ef2deb884023.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In 1913 women marched on Washington for the right to vote</td></tr>
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In the summer of 1917 <em>all</em> of the work that Vera had done on her thesis was lost in a house fire. She started over. Because someone else had by then published on the same subject as her original thesis, Vera turned to a new field of investigation. When peace was restored in Europe, Vera went overseas in the Spring of 1920 and spent 15 months doing research in London, England and returned to earn a PhD at Bryn Mawr College. Her thesis topic was, "Anglo-Spanish relations in America in the closing years of the Colonial Era," and she came to be well-respected for her work on Spanish-Anglo relations.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Treasure Hearts bracelet photographed on a bound version of my grandmother's PhD thesis.</td></tr>
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I have always been aware of my grandmother's education but watching Downton Abby on Netflix really helped me put my grandmother's story into historical perspective. (If you haven't watched it, I highly recommend it) The fictional Mary Crawley was born in 1891, one year after my grandmother. For those who have watched the show, imagine, if you will, the Lady Mary Crawley who, instead of marrying Matthew and having a baby, decides to go to university, work on a PhD, travel to Spain, and then, as an unmarried woman, become a university professor!<br />
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In the Preface to my grandmother's dissertation, she shared the sources of her research, one of which was the Grantham Papers: "original letters addressed by the home government [England] and by ministers at other European courts to Lord Grantham, the British ambassador to Spain 1771-1779, and copies of his letters in reply." When I read this I thought, "Wait. Grantham? Isn't that the name in Downton Abby?" I guess that would be Lady Mary's ancestor.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Includes Vera Holmes</td></tr>
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This was a time when women were discriminated against in many areas on the grounds of sex or marital status, including education. In the Victorian Era men and women were seen to have vast intellectual and emotional differences. There were concerns that allowing women to compete with men could lead to emotional breakdown. If they allowed women to become educated they would be corrupted and lose their purity. Or it would make them more masculine, might harm their reproductive systems, or lead to them being an unfit mother and wife.<br />
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In the 1880's some institutions, in some countries, started allowing women to attend university. But often classes were segregated. There were classes for men that women couldn't attend. Or women would be required to stay out in the hall to listen to lectures! Even if women were allowed to <em>study</em>, it was quite some time before they could actually earn degrees. Believe it or not, it wasn't until 1963 that women were able to receive degrees from Harvard University.<br />
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In the 1920's women in many countries were finally being allowed to go to university, and in the US, women were enrolling in college in record numbers. These women played a crucial role in the development of women's rights. They fought for equality, acceptance and change: equal access to education, extra curricular activities, and athletics - not to mention the right to vote.<br />
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In my Google search on my grandmother I found reference to her in a book called "Creating Historical Memory: English Canadian Women and the Work of History," (Ed by Alison Prentice and Barbara Boutilier) which discussed prominent women in the field of history academia. In the early 1900's, it was, of course, very unusual for women to attain the level of education that my grandmother did. And it really wasn't until after the second world war that women were routinely given academic postings. History departments were dominated by men, even at women's colleges. In addition, much of the "business and conviviality of the historical profession" in its early years occurred at hotel "smokers," private men's clubs, and an annual retreat in Connecticut. Women were barred from these events, social occasions when graduate students were introduced to prominent colleagues by their mentors.<br />
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In response to this reluctance to hire women professors, and their exclusion from the networking opportunities of their male counterparts, my grandmother and her colleagues became activists. In 1930 they formed the Berkshire Conference of Women Historians, an annual retreat for women historians. It's intention was to facilitate the exchange of ideas and foster friendship among <em>women</em> historians - and it continues to this day. Vera Holmes served as the Secretary-Treasurer in the 1940's and as President in the early 1950's. In the 1970's this organization started having conferences on a new area of study: the history of women. The Berks, as it is called, now organizes the largest international conference on the history of women and gender.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo. from the website for the Berkshire Conference of Women Historians, shows the original members of the organization; it is difficult to tell which of these ladies may be my grandmother.</td></tr>
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Unfortunately for Vera Holmes, the Department Head at McGill, like many university administrators, was set against having any women on the faculty of the History Department. Although she was a "Lecturer" at McGill, it wasn't until she accepted a position at Smith College, a small, private women's college in the US, that she became an Assistant Professor (1924) and then a Professor of History (1931). She taught at Smith College until she retired in 1958. Smith College awarded Vera an Honorary degree in 1960. Her first book was "Studies in the History of Spain," and she was known as a "prominent Latin Americanist." The "magnus opus" of Vera Holmes - her greatest work - was her two-volume "A History of the Americas," which, by the way, you can still buy on Amazon.<br />
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In her late forties Vera Lee Brown married my grandfather, the Very Reverend John H.A. "Jack" Holmes, who was a priest and bishop in the Anglican Church. He later became a professor and the Dean of Divinity at King's College in Halifax. My grandmother, in addition to her academic success, was said to have "pioneered the idea of commuter marriage." Not teaching in the same cities, the couple met during school holidays and spent their summers together at the family cottage in New Brunswick. After retirement they spent their winters in Arizona. My grandfather died in 1963, the year before I was born, but my family traveled every summer to the cottage on Grand Lake to see Granny. It was one of my favourite places in the world.<br />
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My father did not usually join us during the summer vacation, when we were camping or visiting my mother's family, but this cottage would be the one place we were all together (scroll down to see the Photo Gallery). I think this cottage is why I always wanted a sun porch in my home. We would eat family meals out there and watch the sun set over the lake. I liked to lie on the daybed swing in the sun porch and listen to the water gently lapping the shore below.<br />
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(YouTube video with the Sounds of the Lake)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjepc82iuicp660rdqDg9-pgoB9SJnMjiyEqZx_eett5WNArYMt8ERb85voX9h0b_JfvnUQcNs1ZBpts5CkRLCrR5cXPOYw-j3Rsp85AB0laTnPo5K0Yp4BvOwvLfRQOBlxRUbhbI0HNus/s1600/cottage+edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjepc82iuicp660rdqDg9-pgoB9SJnMjiyEqZx_eett5WNArYMt8ERb85voX9h0b_JfvnUQcNs1ZBpts5CkRLCrR5cXPOYw-j3Rsp85AB0laTnPo5K0Yp4BvOwvLfRQOBlxRUbhbI0HNus/s400/cottage+edited.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Holmes family cottage overlooking Grand Lake, New Brunswick</td></tr>
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This is where my father taught me how to skip rocks. Here we could swim, row a boat, play Scrabble, read a book, take long walks on the beach... and ask a question of the Magic 8-ball. So many wonderful memories wrapped up in this little 8-ball.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Zk-EA5CafWw6XLGVCc617scigoAxfWVaY5GvcrbwARjp5Q9YyzYD4fpvXcwvldiXPeK_R9DzrWo0XVxKnS3SpVxqFoU6TI478hwSKAm12PvP8s4hjiFukGQMg_msKnAwMtMGveTTmjo/s1600/IMG_3688.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Zk-EA5CafWw6XLGVCc617scigoAxfWVaY5GvcrbwARjp5Q9YyzYD4fpvXcwvldiXPeK_R9DzrWo0XVxKnS3SpVxqFoU6TI478hwSKAm12PvP8s4hjiFukGQMg_msKnAwMtMGveTTmjo/s400/IMG_3688.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have a Magic 8-ball in my front hall and the charm on my bracelet</td></tr>
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My grandmother, the academic, was described as "formidable," "steely-eyed," and a "strong and feisty" woman, and she could be old-fashioned, opinionated, judgemental, stuck-up, and not very tactful. But, for me, she was just the Granny who made terrible oatmeal, and terrific chocolate fudge, and liked to show me her jewellery from all the places she'd travelled in the world. I think she would have liked me to have some jewellery in memory of her - and the cottage. She taught me that it's OK to be smart, to be independent, and to have my own opinions. And now, knowing the feminist role she played, I am even more grateful to have known her. And this 8-ball charm will remind me that even the most serious of people have some play in them.<br />
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<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/09/surprise-mothers-can-be-athletes-too.html">Surprise! Mothers can be athletes too!</a> - a story about my mother's youth during the second World War, and the crazy rules they had for women's basketball.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/06/daddy-do-you-have-time-to-play.html">Daddy, do you have time to play? A reflection on Father's Day</a> - a story about one of my daughter's favourite things about her dad and why she and I both "throw like a girl."<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/06/speaking-up-when-it-would-be-easier-to.html">Speaking up when it would be easier to remain silent</a> - a story about sexual harassment, bullying, and standing up for what you believe in, and the charm I have to remind me "Don't be afraid of making waves."<br />
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<strong>Holmes Family</strong> <strong>Photo Gallery</strong></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My father, aged 9, with his father the Very Reverend John H.A. "Jack" Holmes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7NwbTjrMlH3QFTmTD8V-wXn4KNCghSwh48lyzTIhxg4jMf5BLqTK20bQccPNUqMrRltzdoUf5oIVPv0hfQQyaKBZn5qsUaGMnEP5OyOQff6cySFh32mc-Wrw3GHFauPv_-L3IutdCXGU/s1600/IMG_3684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7NwbTjrMlH3QFTmTD8V-wXn4KNCghSwh48lyzTIhxg4jMf5BLqTK20bQccPNUqMrRltzdoUf5oIVPv0hfQQyaKBZn5qsUaGMnEP5OyOQff6cySFh32mc-Wrw3GHFauPv_-L3IutdCXGU/s400/IMG_3684.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My parents' wedding (July 1963) with my father's<br />
Holmes family. From the left my Dad's oldest<br />
sister my Auntie Chris, Dad and Mom, Uncle<br />
George (Arnold), and Dad's older sister Aunt<br />
Mary (Arnold), Granny Vera Brown Holmes<br />
and Grampie Jack Holmes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Ns6J-0iQJQRYy8mC1aFXCN5k6I_LU224OFip1MzjkLFk_iUgPHQUi21VRj3LdQcAT8sQji48LU545oOTEhP7-TZIEXDsyVOF40BiFTGnNniIWfIkCefzB0k7flVEF8m7if38yIhpAwI/s1600/IMG_3681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Ns6J-0iQJQRYy8mC1aFXCN5k6I_LU224OFip1MzjkLFk_iUgPHQUi21VRj3LdQcAT8sQji48LU545oOTEhP7-TZIEXDsyVOF40BiFTGnNniIWfIkCefzB0k7flVEF8m7if38yIhpAwI/s320/IMG_3681.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My father and me July 1966</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh78Wm_R0DcC6P9DJ-FNCdybeEGhI9YSzFi4RTyHUivZ6z_y67Y-Z-ofJGytQovcOVF8i_5RdicrOQ1CiqOmoEdcf1GhOZa7SzZ6EVE-zpISQKKauEGhh8UpwZgO7tx3XiEX1PNv3q3ahY/s1600/IMG_3682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh78Wm_R0DcC6P9DJ-FNCdybeEGhI9YSzFi4RTyHUivZ6z_y67Y-Z-ofJGytQovcOVF8i_5RdicrOQ1CiqOmoEdcf1GhOZa7SzZ6EVE-zpISQKKauEGhh8UpwZgO7tx3XiEX1PNv3q3ahY/s320/IMG_3682.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother Verna Holmes with me<br />
(almost 2 years old)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8XK8sdWdpQMFwokxzM8hTEy0hTncrYZmuLBoF5xu9aEdH9BNrILDc3LKfhJ94w6r3HS2mhKNMCi3iLk-zaZHwfTBwZRhAiwd7cRLWiauG5vUP3J1M417z1XDgyUUxOpU9CgTwaHZSkw/s1600/IMG_3677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8XK8sdWdpQMFwokxzM8hTEy0hTncrYZmuLBoF5xu9aEdH9BNrILDc3LKfhJ94w6r3HS2mhKNMCi3iLk-zaZHwfTBwZRhAiwd7cRLWiauG5vUP3J1M417z1XDgyUUxOpU9CgTwaHZSkw/s400/IMG_3677.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, my younger brother Thomas, Mom<br />
and Granny (Dad was usually the photographer)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiu7KS0OHyM_HHzf42OxFxK5GPeN4ELGDQEoGErXDDQ7LQAnnTfXFHGCiMeSGyJsSbZ8kK3Tdx2RppQjxKwD2r5XX5y39aL2lYANWWeyk9GBFZokyA9KMr3Do5LEQuNtUA4gCABYzKcoM/s1600/IMG_3678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiu7KS0OHyM_HHzf42OxFxK5GPeN4ELGDQEoGErXDDQ7LQAnnTfXFHGCiMeSGyJsSbZ8kK3Tdx2RppQjxKwD2r5XX5y39aL2lYANWWeyk9GBFZokyA9KMr3Do5LEQuNtUA4gCABYzKcoM/s400/IMG_3678.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granny, Mom, me and Tom with Granny's brother<br />
who we called Uncle Eric and his dog</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyrC165qtuy70cDsDdGIEAfU70ZeAHI8yM0vfbCr17ZCdQw65BD5XzFEBbUvYziTNqoGwcfT7R2iINz7MvUq4FO1uui3rFFP9pe7gDA-_jIgaq5QXOL5Ek65-m7ZuxxLyCo3DR-jW9kI/s1600/IMG_3675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyrC165qtuy70cDsDdGIEAfU70ZeAHI8yM0vfbCr17ZCdQw65BD5XzFEBbUvYziTNqoGwcfT7R2iINz7MvUq4FO1uui3rFFP9pe7gDA-_jIgaq5QXOL5Ek65-m7ZuxxLyCo3DR-jW9kI/s400/IMG_3675.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Mom and Granny at church</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxx10_Sldzp85L5es9cxcBshxLl5YLJBjiR67AlU_NJlRHzK0SdcVLvsWu1Anigo6bQWiN54fuP9DuBVNPa2u8Y57bUuhmkMd_bIvr-udKwF0MpkLP-t37QPTfyhQzMIpNvm-61dUyXyw/s1600/201625_10151170584525731_1871130145_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxx10_Sldzp85L5es9cxcBshxLl5YLJBjiR67AlU_NJlRHzK0SdcVLvsWu1Anigo6bQWiN54fuP9DuBVNPa2u8Y57bUuhmkMd_bIvr-udKwF0MpkLP-t37QPTfyhQzMIpNvm-61dUyXyw/s400/201625_10151170584525731_1871130145_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We visited the cottage in the summer of 2012,<br />
the summer after my father died. Mitchell and<br />
Taylor were 10-years-old at the time.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRo8BZOHWY5ioRH1C8vyH_uQ4tkWRShilQtL6632AOs8bX0aJbYxGfKpwTq5enHamB1XB_6HClK3qz6NfbmBNl7ZCLT-nlaJ-S5NZxiOF3OnFy9Fl75y7-huZWZT_HhTwDHGZqnIJx1w8/s1600/blogger-image--1832780659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRo8BZOHWY5ioRH1C8vyH_uQ4tkWRShilQtL6632AOs8bX0aJbYxGfKpwTq5enHamB1XB_6HClK3qz6NfbmBNl7ZCLT-nlaJ-S5NZxiOF3OnFy9Fl75y7-huZWZT_HhTwDHGZqnIJx1w8/s400/blogger-image--1832780659.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We visited the cottage again in the summer of 2015.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-XScsNBmA0fVZYEWfaGelGmySzjZggLGaunOxq6c4-r1cS2_6IdOVZotFW82TeqoNf-BCOgGT-4RqdadKLL1k-I5A__CXv0HkWJrvjjnh_gGGAoHGKouUrUlbxhLpwNxGBJL8Ds6W4a4/s1600/10626809_10152631033500731_5182564206353463840_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-XScsNBmA0fVZYEWfaGelGmySzjZggLGaunOxq6c4-r1cS2_6IdOVZotFW82TeqoNf-BCOgGT-4RqdadKLL1k-I5A__CXv0HkWJrvjjnh_gGGAoHGKouUrUlbxhLpwNxGBJL8Ds6W4a4/s400/10626809_10152631033500731_5182564206353463840_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This lake has a sandy bottom and you can walk a looooong way before it's over your head.<br />
But you might get your shorts wet.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8yWA2QmNECW2Q1gf_tpNALNjbCg6XJ0gy0Osp3nm-jQ7l8-GJIqnOU3ygINT47Pp-kQAj5lcYMOzuACXOEswAEPRL_G2Cj9k6sNpHIjEcTmJolo2hwXY0CcM6VPwv8FMsGOfPD81jq2s/s1600/10620590_10152631036090731_6976454174506272063_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8yWA2QmNECW2Q1gf_tpNALNjbCg6XJ0gy0Osp3nm-jQ7l8-GJIqnOU3ygINT47Pp-kQAj5lcYMOzuACXOEswAEPRL_G2Cj9k6sNpHIjEcTmJolo2hwXY0CcM6VPwv8FMsGOfPD81jq2s/s400/10620590_10152631036090731_6976454174506272063_n.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skipping stones. The wind-up.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKccz_a85lbP8Usi2Wyj0oVYp5CwNMLQVBZzx4BJHDYGYa0TECLHjwjVhFmaP_LFEUuw7Gld1v7HTHipbmYA9AtvtBolQeHcPGbgcRy47whRTNK1xl5Bk6GKM4S6DVEM2c52PxLbh4jWw/s1600/996147_10152631036190731_1173533955302348438_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKccz_a85lbP8Usi2Wyj0oVYp5CwNMLQVBZzx4BJHDYGYa0TECLHjwjVhFmaP_LFEUuw7Gld1v7HTHipbmYA9AtvtBolQeHcPGbgcRy47whRTNK1xl5Bk6GKM4S6DVEM2c52PxLbh4jWw/s400/996147_10152631036190731_1173533955302348438_n.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And release. Guess who's rock did NOT skip.<br />
(She throws like a girl)</td></tr>
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Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-39088812442942420962017-01-13T11:42:00.000-05:002017-01-13T11:42:01.410-05:00When Christmas carolling "means a little bit more"Have you ever thrown a wish out into the universe and then been surprised at how it came true?<br />
<br />
I'd been saying for years that I want to go Christmas carolling but never seemed to get it organized - and of course beating myself up about it, aka "<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/05/an-essential-feel-better-lesson-from.html" target="_blank">shoulding</a>" all over myself. But I bought the carollers charm last year and put it on my Christmas bracelet this year, and, low and behold, my wish came true. But not at all in the way that I expected it to.<br />
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Now let me digress, or more accurately, start out, with one of my favourite stories about my husband's family, the Haydens. When Mike and I first started dating, and then living together, we would go "home" to Nova Scotia (our home province on the east coast of Canada) at Christmas. At that time, Mike's grandparents were still living but my mother-in-law Dede's parents needed to move to a nursing home. When clearing out her parents' apartment, Dede found out that her father, who had lived through the Depression, never threw anything out and had a huge collection of paperclips, of all things. The good thing about this (besides the plethora of paperclips) was that he kept old correspondence.<br />
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When the Hayden kids were young (Mike's the oldest of four), they would make audiotapes to send to the grandparents who spent their winters in Florida. I happened to be there when they found these tapes in grandfather Ray's desk. There were some great stories that came from listening to those tapes, but something on one tape, clearly made at Christmas, is a story we still repeat.<br />
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Mike's dad Dick played the guitar. So the family sat down to sing songs for this audio tape. And they started with "Frosty the Snowman." And it went something like this: "Frosty the Snowman, na na na na na na na..." The voices faded away but Dick kept playing. Let's just say it became an "instrumental" version of Frosty. We laughed so hard when we heard it!<br />
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OK back to planning the carolling. I thought we should ask people in the neighbourhood or the kids' friends if they would be interested. But when would we schedule it? Because of course lots of people have so many parties and commitments in the weeks leading up to the big day. Oh dear, we'd need to clean the house because we would have to invite people over to our house afterwards. Of course we'd offer hot chocolate and cookies. I'd need to buy hot chocolate because no one in our family really likes it. And we would need mini marshmallows because they look so cute floating on top of hot chocolate. Hmm the cookies were going to be another problem. In the rush leading up to Christmas I never seem to get baking done so where would I squeeze that it? There was also my concern that nobody would remember the second verse of "Jingle Bells" or the <em>first</em> line of Frosty (see how I made that connection there?). Therefore I'd need to print the lyrics to a number of favourite carols so everyone had a copy. You can see why this never happened! I was over-thinking it.<br />
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And then a friend invited me to an event on Facebook. To go carolling. In our neighbourhood.<br />
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My neighbourhood friend, who was there for me when my mother died, lost her husband suddenly when her two girls were eight and five years old. Now her girls are teenagers and their mom has cancer.<br />
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This friend has always been involved in our community of Hintonburg, particularly in the Arts community. So when the owner of a local store, that sells the work of local artists, heard the news about the cancer they wanted to help, particularly at Christmas. And so did my daughter Taylor and I.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group selfie of the carollers; this was taken just before we went into the Hintonburg Public House.<br />
Taylor is in the back with the Santa hat and I'm the hatless one just behind her.</td></tr>
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To bring Christmas cheer to our neighbourhood, and raise money for our friend and her two daughters, <a href="http://makerhouse.com/password" target="_blank">Maker House</a> organized what they called "Community Carolling." There was no hot chocolate <em>but</em> there was mulled cider. And there were marshmallows, but the big kind, dipped in chocolate and crushed candy cane! They even made up little packages with pretzels dipped in chocolate and sprinkles. They gave out little ribbons with jingle bells on them. And they printed up booklets with lyrics - including Frosty! (Taylor, by the way, was very excited to find out that she could keep the songbook afterwards.)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carolling in the Hintonburg Public House.<br />
(that's Taylor in the Santa hat)</td></tr>
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I recently read the book <em>The Tao of Pooh</em>, and learned that sometimes we have to not try so hard! "Tao doesn't force or interfere with things, but let's them work in their own way, to produce results naturally. Then whatever needs to be done is done." The book further explained, "Things just happen in the right way, at the right time. At least they do when you let them, when you work with circumstances instead of saying, 'This isn't supposed to be happening this way,' and trying hard to make it happen in another way."<br />
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So now, on my "A Victorian Christmas" bracelet, I have this little charm, with two carollers dressed warmly for this winter activity, and holding a songbook - hopefully with lyrics for Frosty. But now this charm isn't just about singing Christmas carols, or making it a perfect social event. As Scrooge learned in <em>A Christmas Carol</em>, the Christmas "spirit" is about family and community, and hope and generosity. "Perhaps," to quote The Grinch and Dr. Seuss, this Christmas charm now "means a little bit more."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike gave me this book for Christmas after I mentioned I'd never read it before.<br />
"A Christmas Carol: the original manuscript edition."</td></tr>
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As we walked home after carolling, Taylor said, "That was fun! That was my first time carolling." And so this year, Taylor's Christmas <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/01/death-grief-tears-and-christmas-bauble.html" target="_blank">ornament</a> was a snowman in a choir ruff, to represent not just her performances with her school vocal class, and being asked to join the Chamber Choir this year, but also so she can remember her first time carolling.<br />
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(Mitchell's ornament, in case you're wondering, is this silly Santa/elf because the highest mark on his report card this year was drama, and he tried out for the part of an elf in his class play - I told you he's a <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/07/all-world-loves-clown-i-know-i-love-mine.html">clown!</a>)<br />
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<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/12/sending-love-and-christmas-cheer-around.html" target="_blank">Sending Love and Christmas cheer around the world</a> - a story about an unforgettable moment in 2016 when one of Taylor's choir concerts had me thinking about my Pandora friends around the world.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-pandora-fans-are.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Pandora fans are not Grinches</a> - a story about all the fans of Pandora promotional items and <em>my</em> definition of "a true Pandora fan" with a little poem inspired by Dr. Seuss.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/05/sing-sing-out-loud.html" target="_blank">Sing. Sing out loud...</a> - a story about how Taylor came to love singing (no thanks to me!) and an important lesson she taught <em>me</em> about learning to be myself.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/12/a-tale-of-two-cities-and-christmas-tree.html" target="_blank">A tale of two cities... and a Christmas tree</a> - a story that will give you goose-bumps and is a reminder that the Christmas spirit is about gratitude and generosity, and thinking of others in our hometowns, our countries, and around the world.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/11/let-there-be-peace-on-earth.html" target="_blank">Let there be peace on earth</a> - a story about choir performances on Remembrance Day after a terrorist act in our city, and the charm I have to represent my hope for peace.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-57816241752733656332016-12-26T22:42:00.001-05:002017-01-12T13:57:47.811-05:00Sending love and Christmas cheer around the worldYou may recognize some of the faces and names in today's blog post. Read on to see the charm I chose to represent these friends, and you, my readers around the world - and my favourite moment of 2016. There's a contest running, asking about favourite moments in 2016 (see details below). Please add a comment and let me know what country you're from.<br />
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One of my favourite moments in 2016 was seeing my 15-year-old daughter singing with her vocal class at the European Union Christmas Concert, just 10 days ago, in front of an audience of 1200 people.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crumpled program (which they ran out of) and my two red leathers bracelets with the bracelet I call "A Victorian Christmas."</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Nepean High School Choir<br />
Taylor is on bottom right with the long braid.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I hadn't anticipated seeing the beautiful sight of the steeples glowing in the dark winter sky as we approached the Basilica in the evening.<br />
(not my photo)</td></tr>
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We live in Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, so of course there are many embassies here. Every year the Embassy of the European Union hosts a Christmas Concert in the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica. Apparently the concert is a very popular Christmas tradition for many people in the city - and based on the line outside the church, I'd say that's true!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My attempt to capture the interior and the standing-room-only audience.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A photo from last year's concert, showing a packed house.<br />
(not my photo)</td></tr>
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My daughter's vocal class and the school's Chamber Choir, as well as two other children's choirs, sang songs from all 28 member countries in the European Union, in their original language. How moving it must have been for people to hear traditional songs from their childhood, sung <em>by</em> children, in such a magnificent church.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxslj89F-QUe9cZbmXktB_xwlZNlkG36Pvkk2OcsbCUNHGITV-49p93r8XR-2U6nKm8mBxIDABdd1vW8j9kqkNAUiNlOEtz6vjk26C2fwT-luh2RnI1mLw7zqNChzqflNZ0QIZUaQYfK0/s1600/IMG_2967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxslj89F-QUe9cZbmXktB_xwlZNlkG36Pvkk2OcsbCUNHGITV-49p93r8XR-2U6nKm8mBxIDABdd1vW8j9kqkNAUiNlOEtz6vjk26C2fwT-luh2RnI1mLw7zqNChzqflNZ0QIZUaQYfK0/s320/IMG_2967.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica is across from the National Gallery of Canada and this spider sculpture called "Maman." Built between 1840 and 1870, the exterior of the Basilica is fairly reserved, especially compared to the ornate interior. (not my photos)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlu76JkSTU38-ncLMOV1deMmOCFrpYZ0q2gS2VBeR49IQcOQGqVUBHQSzRp54dV1DCEPN5mPMSG_QAXWeZB3XGrjgdKXoTCmXQ7GX8tmlBmSoWnK1zNBRxKowR4vc1gQDx232v77FMoc/s1600/IMG_2974.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlu76JkSTU38-ncLMOV1deMmOCFrpYZ0q2gS2VBeR49IQcOQGqVUBHQSzRp54dV1DCEPN5mPMSG_QAXWeZB3XGrjgdKXoTCmXQ7GX8tmlBmSoWnK1zNBRxKowR4vc1gQDx232v77FMoc/s640/IMG_2974.PNG" width="440" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The extraordinary interior of the Basilica.<br />
(not my photos)</td></tr>
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I recently had a woman send me a long note about reading the stories on my blog. At the end she said, "Keep your chin up and keep persevering. You are stronger than you think and mean a lot to many people in the world and are making positive change in the lives of many." It means so much to me that by sharing my stories I might actually make a difference in the life of someone else - to think that I might somehow help people, somewhere in the world.<br />
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As I sat listening to all of those beautiful Christmas songs, many that I could not understand, I kept thinking of all of those people from around the world - my readers and followers, as well as the friends I've made through Pandora. And I had this wonderful warm sparkly feeling come over me. Listen to this three-minute <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHapPwhIkBU" target="_blank">video</a> of "Still, still, still," a traditional Austrian lullaby and see if it touches you, as it did me. (Yes, they could have done without the squeaky clarinet solo.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSh2HRGC7WBalkNuCZ3Ochk7m-WTRa3QaY6uig_GPrkx2VdkCZ1t27GZrbArWyuSuM8q0uhA8vlBNk_Tesfb5lme-M_pXajidmsKTm2X5OzYXdAENlLjoBzoPt-VTm9sNXJ81uJKsAlE/s1600/IMG_2815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSh2HRGC7WBalkNuCZ3Ochk7m-WTRa3QaY6uig_GPrkx2VdkCZ1t27GZrbArWyuSuM8q0uhA8vlBNk_Tesfb5lme-M_pXajidmsKTm2X5OzYXdAENlLjoBzoPt-VTm9sNXJ81uJKsAlE/s400/IMG_2815.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(not my photo)</td></tr>
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As the three children's choirs entered, coming down this long centre aisle of the church, and singing "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," with the participation of the audience, I thought of the countless friends I now have in the UK: Mandy and Laura in England and Catrin and Mandy in Wales, to name just a few of the first UK ladies I met when I started to collect Pandora. In this three-minute <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJj3wterm1Y" target="_blank">video</a> you can see Taylor as the second person to enter; and I've tried to videotape some of the interior.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DuZaoLaeDZZw8-4XjXNWGEMrP_HahXoBcu3_UVDu4VJND6OcUSzB2WJHc1c716lVg8ktLxR9SACKzIGFJUrnON_fZ4TNRCEV2XIc7JJ59mlBE1RTvrzAR7cJ2fiKkxQNNlmD3VnjcYg/s1600/IMG_2928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DuZaoLaeDZZw8-4XjXNWGEMrP_HahXoBcu3_UVDu4VJND6OcUSzB2WJHc1c716lVg8ktLxR9SACKzIGFJUrnON_fZ4TNRCEV2XIc7JJ59mlBE1RTvrzAR7cJ2fiKkxQNNlmD3VnjcYg/s320/IMG_2928.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Spanish song "A La Nanita Nana" made me think of Thais and Punita and how much I've enjoyed seeing photos of their travels. When one of the choirs sang "O Tannenbaum" I thought of Riki in Germany. To represent the Czech Republic, there was "Hayek, nynej, Jesisku" (A Rocking Carol) which seemed appropriate for Veronika of <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/search/label/Mii%20homemade%20bracelets" target="_blank">Mii bracelets</a> who has two young boys. Listening to "Nu is die roe van jesse" (A New Branch on the Christmas Tree) reminded me that my friend Ellen in Belgium showed me photos of her upside down Christmas tree. When I saw that the song "Jul, jul, stralande jul" (Christmas, Christmas, Glorious Christmas) was from Sweden it made me realize how much I missed seeing photos of Linda's kids and chatting with her about crafts and cats. Most of these ladies I've known for five years now.<br />
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I seem to have a number of friends in Portugal: Marta, Andreia, Celina, Ana, and Cristina. And I thought of them fondly when one of the choirs sang "Natal de Elvas" (Noel de Elvas). Those ladies probably have no idea how much it meant to me that they offered to help me purchase charms that were long-retired in Canada; it gave me something to look forward to and gave me hope when I needed it. As the Nepean High School choir sang the "Wexford Carol," a traditional Irish Christmas carol, I recalled meeting Geraldine on the Pandora pages. In this three minute <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6tXAQT4tdw" target="_blank">video</a> you can see why Taylor asked me to videotape this lovely song; it was one of her favourite pieces in their performance. When another choir sang "Quelle est cette odeur agreeable" I thought of my friend Anabela in France, one of the European Pandora fans that I got to know quite well in a photography group. I have to admit, that song had us giggling because my husband translated it directly to mean, "What is that agreeable odour?" and in English we don't usually use the word "odour" to mean anything pleasant <em>or</em> agreeable.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oKHGeizdu5afxwCn_PhDfRfVnrzstcm-thZA_L6-YIGjR94ghiAkDXuMNKvc_bSuEf1c8XTt85z8G3zG3Dmxk6b75UogLLFWM98Er5WCxSSwnsNOtG2YbUT7yjiOfzZDkNwIRMqZEUU/s1600/P1160016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oKHGeizdu5afxwCn_PhDfRfVnrzstcm-thZA_L6-YIGjR94ghiAkDXuMNKvc_bSuEf1c8XTt85z8G3zG3Dmxk6b75UogLLFWM98Er5WCxSSwnsNOtG2YbUT7yjiOfzZDkNwIRMqZEUU/s320/P1160016.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A photo I took for our photography group. The steeples of the Notre Dame Basilica are covered with tin, typical in French-Canadian churches.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRlRvGClIvo9ghPss2bZ8RP_uvRE3AW69t6cLUxOcOsv95CZnXv0E6A_DllYWeHwW5kIPjukJVb0j5hwDTLfi_tud4K1dEJAfR7VTDh2xV4TX70L_bd0hlfLQTmA08wZ51z-Zf-nzMAg4/s1600/IMG_2819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRlRvGClIvo9ghPss2bZ8RP_uvRE3AW69t6cLUxOcOsv95CZnXv0E6A_DllYWeHwW5kIPjukJVb0j5hwDTLfi_tud4K1dEJAfR7VTDh2xV4TX70L_bd0hlfLQTmA08wZ51z-Zf-nzMAg4/s320/IMG_2819.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were sitting in the very last row in the pews on the sides of the church so we couldn't see the choir at all.<br />
(not my photo)</td></tr>
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As we sat in that enormous church, I closed my eyes, and just listened to the voices rising up and reaching out to all those people. And I imagined my love and Christmas cheer traveling across the globe. I leaned over and whispered to my husband that I had decided that I need a charm to represent those glittering hearts of my friends and readers around the world. The pink "glittering heart" charm seemed to be a good way to remember this special occasion. I hope we make this an annual tradition, even if Taylor's choir is not performing.<br />
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P.S. The vocal teacher recently asked Taylor to join the Chamber Choir, without having to audition, because they needed more "strong altos." Just goes to show how wrong I was when I thought my daughter was not a good singer. (see the link to "Sing. Sing out loud..." below)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN41mbXfSajIn4eQ2sMX-XV7-5nL9a3qpg1lI1BCa3806h9AiTQcXX4q_DB6jIcWaKQUkW3stQMKeW8xxfsnCsKcx3IJKbx90etdJUelEAN60gdO3z8a-6-AgOw_EYLj1SXNm7f8xJppM/s1600/IMG_2867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN41mbXfSajIn4eQ2sMX-XV7-5nL9a3qpg1lI1BCa3806h9AiTQcXX4q_DB6jIcWaKQUkW3stQMKeW8xxfsnCsKcx3IJKbx90etdJUelEAN60gdO3z8a-6-AgOw_EYLj1SXNm7f8xJppM/s400/IMG_2867.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pink enamel "glittering heart" charm (bottom right) on my latest work-in-progress Pandora Rose bracelet/bangle.</td></tr>
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Today's blog post is an expanded version of a piece I wrote for a competition on Instagram, before I even purchased the pink glittering heart charm. I submitted the photo below from my post "Sing. Sing out loud..." (see link in Related Posts below). Please take a moment to pop over to the Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theartofpandoracom/photos/?tab=album&album_id=380445565640502" target="_blank">page</a> to see the album of contest submissions. There are pictures and stories of special moments like vacations, engagements, birthdays and more. Have a look and vote for <em>your</em> favourite. The photo with the most "Likes" will win a PANDORA 2016 Club Charm. Voting ends December 31. It's not a popularity contest and I'm not asking you to vote for MY photo (I've won my share of Pandora prizes in the last few years) but I hope to support Hazel in her new endeavour. <br />
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<strong>Here is The Art of Pandora's description of the contest:</strong><br />
<em>"This year has flown by and it is hard to believe we are in December already. Hopefully as you ponder over the past year you are able [to] remember some beautiful moments that you captured with PANDORA. For this month's competition we would like you to choose your favourite PANDORA moment and share it with us."</em><br />
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The contest is put on by a wonderful new blog called <a href="http://theartofpandora.com/" target="_blank">The Art of Pandora</a>. I'm not even sure if "blog" is the right thing to call it because it's so much more than just a blog: you will find tabs for a <em>Magazine</em> (one article has interviews with many of the winners of the Paris Forever contest, including yours truly), <em>Reviews</em> of Pandora charms, and a <em>Pinboard</em> with the latest news on releases, sales, promos and more. There is also a gallery of photos called <em>Inspiration</em>, still a work-in-progress. And there is a <em>Catalog</em>, also a work-in-progress; the intention is to be able to find stock photos of all current and retired charms as well as country exclusives. I know I'll be using it frequently; it's much easier to search and find photos than the Pandora iPhone app. While you are on Facebook make sure to "Like" <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theartofpandoracom/" target="_blank">The Art of Pandora</a> page and check out a special Christmas competition (ending December 31) where you nominate someone <em>else</em> to win a charm.<br />
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<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-meaning-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: the meaning of Pandora's box</a> - a story about the ancient Greek myth and how Pandora jewellery - and my international friends - have given me the gift of hope.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-pandora-fans-are.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Pandora fans are not Grinches</a> - a story about all the fans of Pandora promotional items and <em>my</em> definition of a "true Pandora fan" with a little poem inspired by Dr. Seuss.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/05/sing-sing-out-loud.html" target="_blank">Sing. Sing out loud...</a> - a story about how Taylor came to love singing (no thanks to me!) and an important lesson she taught me about learning to be myself.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/05/with-little-help-from-my-friends.html" target="_blank">With a little help from my-friends</a> - a heart-warming war-time story about the Princess and the... not the pea... the tulip, and its symbolism - and how I tried to be a good friend to my international friends.<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/12/the-countdown-begins-on-first-day-of.html" target="_blank">The countdown begins... on first day of Christmas</a> - a story about how my Pandora friends helped me through the first winter of my recovery from my eating disorder and depression.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-91841286966028021742016-12-12T15:00:00.000-05:002017-02-07T15:17:59.093-05:00Accept where you are and start where you're at"I did it! I did it! OMG I did it! I thought I was going to puke at the end. But still, I did it!" I stopped to write this note on my phone a few weeks ago, but you can't really get excited for me until I give you the back story and explain how I earned four wooden muranos.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiha0O5Kzk9FgLfA_tuF5ANBnPYmUgEWNMFf44lPg-VJSJfhO5-Q-M32RB150ogzpc4GwMXsQQFb1F3Gk1ECpfiYXufqcR1HHEDosU5IyfyWfJU_0IpA1UgO-ldaPg7a610JGLxbOH3Cg/s1600/IMG_1091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiha0O5Kzk9FgLfA_tuF5ANBnPYmUgEWNMFf44lPg-VJSJfhO5-Q-M32RB150ogzpc4GwMXsQQFb1F3Gk1ECpfiYXufqcR1HHEDosU5IyfyWfJU_0IpA1UgO-ldaPg7a610JGLxbOH3Cg/s320/IMG_1091.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Sacred Woods bracelet and brown leather.</td></tr>
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In the Spring I had a wake-up call. I saw my family doctor for my physical (i.e. annual medical exam). I told her that I wasn't getting much exercise because of this foot injury. The doctor looked through my file and said we should get a new x-ray since it had been two years since the last one.<br />
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Two years?!! It's been two years I've been struggling with this foot injury?! It's been two years that I've been waiting for it to get better or for someone to fix it?!<br />
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I came home from that doctor's appointment and said to my husband Mike, "Well, I guess I'd better fix this old body of mine, cause apparently they're not gonna let me trade<em> this</em> one in for a younger, new-and-improved model."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSaa_iv_m6FWBUhcDgKHD-b6AiD1vu7snOmltNWXuz77XeYlIap3A7leXY7lYSTHtGOUMIG71yo0_E5A9h1J5amWyI3GP4vLUwDjCNmjdQZiGcwRFkRMgBXH2yzcD8lBBYATPusq1iZJA/s1600/OsTrigonumfinal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSaa_iv_m6FWBUhcDgKHD-b6AiD1vu7snOmltNWXuz77XeYlIap3A7leXY7lYSTHtGOUMIG71yo0_E5A9h1J5amWyI3GP4vLUwDjCNmjdQZiGcwRFkRMgBXH2yzcD8lBBYATPusq1iZJA/s200/OsTrigonumfinal.jpg" width="200" /></a>I'm not really sure how I injured my foot. In March of 2014 we'd been away for a week at our timeshare and were swimming every day in the pool at the lodge. At the end of the week my ankle started to get sore. I thought maybe it wasn't happy about my wearing flipflops all week instead of sneakers with orthotics. I waited to see if it would get better - probably waited too long - but it didn't. By the time I went to physiotherapy it was.. So. Incredibly. Painful.<br />
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The ankle seemed to be locked. I would try to point my toes and it wouldn't move. And then suddenly it would "give" and move - but it hurt so much! The physio thought I might have a "loose body" in the joint: a bone chip or something that was getting stuck in the joint.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNrORkhNLc99z95Sukmayld-XFx76h-YudeLGQHXPitYECoBT7bnt-8ZAMfMo-wKH7uBLrEvYn3XXLXPnzQMEfA5qG3EsIbxdcyvdS7J3SIIOQ7kvkcyPSva39GC_c-ZIJY0twxQOwZ-I/s1600/cuboid-syndrome-or-cuboid-subluxation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNrORkhNLc99z95Sukmayld-XFx76h-YudeLGQHXPitYECoBT7bnt-8ZAMfMo-wKH7uBLrEvYn3XXLXPnzQMEfA5qG3EsIbxdcyvdS7J3SIIOQ7kvkcyPSva39GC_c-ZIJY0twxQOwZ-I/s200/cuboid-syndrome-or-cuboid-subluxation.jpg" width="200" /></a>X-rays were taken from different angles but showed no loose body - or other explanation for the injury. They referred me to a sports med doctor who diagnosed "cuboid syndrome" (the cuboid is a small bone below the ankle). A little research on my part - I am an anatomy teacher after all - led me to understand that cuboid syndrome in athletes is a common cause for pain on the outside of the ankle. It sometimes occurs with an ankle sprain but it's often misdiagnosed. I did have some bad ankle sprains in university but in this case it's a dislocation of this cuboid bone that limits the movements of the foot and is probably better described as "locked cuboid." It seems that, like mine, it can have a gradual onset with no apparent trauma. It presents with non-specific symptoms like mine. Standing was painful. Walking was painful. Even shifting my weight to my injured foot was painful. And I couldn't do the complete movement of walking, from heel strike and rolling to push-off with the toes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZXhVrEkfMvrNhXqKylJJIHRJOp1I3EPHaE09cQDVlCR_5HfkskanVrVqN_-HagzXOkzhsK4WB74HoyNSJgsibOqgP2l4GSYmoSZ-mXoHKr8fI1xBusYaNsCchyRAc2nUEZVUglbmQ9I/s1600/blogger-image-2082680705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZXhVrEkfMvrNhXqKylJJIHRJOp1I3EPHaE09cQDVlCR_5HfkskanVrVqN_-HagzXOkzhsK4WB74HoyNSJgsibOqgP2l4GSYmoSZ-mXoHKr8fI1xBusYaNsCchyRAc2nUEZVUglbmQ9I/s320/blogger-image-2082680705.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am wearing the Aircast in this photo from the summer of 2014.</td></tr>
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The prescription was rest and an air cast (aka "the boot"). The sports med doctor felt the injury would calm down if supported by a cast, but she warned me that I may experience flare-ups. By September, when I entered the <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/11/when-your-brain-and-body-scream-911.html" target="_blank">Day Hospital</a>, I was still wearing the cast daily. When people asked why I was wearing a cast I told them how I'd had a really bad ankle sprain when I played volleyball in university and it seemed to throw off the mechanics of my foot, causing pain. The athletic therapist at the university <em>did</em> say I'd have problems with my foot when I was forty or fifty. And, right on schedule, I turned 50 that fall.<br />
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The sports med doctor felt that the tendons around my ankle were inflamed from trying to control the movements of the loose ankle and wearing the boot would give them a rest. And it <em>did </em>work. Over time it seemed to settle down.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjANboLVDatM6WKBm685CLV-PRaQrfCkfBOFPoJxUHzat2Ipk58UbAzwRRmV1gAwJviSQxq5_8lLMVCfobB7Gx-ucIl8VT7sN_WJ_tjX4lBp5E3ADC0fJkBHAmzhJX547vLTxY6bZ97kzE/s1600/IMG_2473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjANboLVDatM6WKBm685CLV-PRaQrfCkfBOFPoJxUHzat2Ipk58UbAzwRRmV1gAwJviSQxq5_8lLMVCfobB7Gx-ucIl8VT7sN_WJ_tjX4lBp5E3ADC0fJkBHAmzhJX547vLTxY6bZ97kzE/s320/IMG_2473.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Aircast decorated by my daughter and my nieces.</td></tr>
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By the winter of 2015 I tried to build up my endurance for walking but it flared up again and it would seize up after walking for only 10 minutes. I was so discouraged. And of course the less active I was, the more de-conditioned I got. (De-conditioned is what us Personal Trainers call being "out-of-shape.")<br />
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I was <em>really</em> frustrated with this body and this foot! But, in looking back, I have to say, I shouldn't be too hard on myself because the year 2015 was all about doing serious work on my<em> mental</em> health - and I had made huge improvements. Nevertheless, I was determined that 2016 was going to be all about working on my <em>physical</em> health.<br />
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So when I came home from seeing my family doctor, while we waited to get x-rays and see the sports med doc, Mike suggested I start by just doing more stairs. In case you've never been in a cast, let me tell you, it is a royal pain climbing up and down stairs when you're in a cast. So I had gotten used to asking Mike or the kids to bring me a bottle of water rather than take the stairs. And usually you have to walk down stairs bending only one knee, making one leg stronger than the other. Wearing the cast had also thrown off the mechanics of walking because the boot adds length to one leg, affecting my hips and low back. I wore that darn cast for over eight months! <br />
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Mike also suggested if I couldn't walk 10 minutes, I could do 5 minutes, maybe twice a day. It doesn't sound like much but in the Spring it was hard for me to just walk to the corner and back - really hard!<br />
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Mike's suggestions reminded me of this quote by Arthur Ashe: "To achieve greatness, start where you are, use what you have and do what you can."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswHbgoVz3UU_zodOoE5L4lOnluuJFCUnpduvb81pK4i2JX52OBzP1F798d7c__sMnimSBzKwLTMt4hyx2pFnOkLbOhS0F9913pVepbS5MNLiOgnciJV4Cjfh71NSOUYaO86B3xsYDpIE/s1600/start1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswHbgoVz3UU_zodOoE5L4lOnluuJFCUnpduvb81pK4i2JX52OBzP1F798d7c__sMnimSBzKwLTMt4hyx2pFnOkLbOhS0F9913pVepbS5MNLiOgnciJV4Cjfh71NSOUYaO86B3xsYDpIE/s320/start1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It also reminded me of some Principles of Fitness Training that I used to teach to my fitness students at the Y. First there is the Principle of Adaptation: the body will adapt to the stress (exercise) you put on it. The Principle of Overload: in order for the body to adapt and grow stronger, the stress needs to be more than you normally do i.e. an "overload" - even if that overload is simply to walk up and down the stairs more than twice a day. And finally, the Principle of Progressive Overload: as your body adapts to the stress it will become accustomed to it and you must progressively increase the stress to continue to see adaptation and improvement. The body responds to stress by getting stronger, whether that stress is muscular or cardiovascular. In order for <em>my</em> body to get stronger I needed to add stress. It did not take much "stress" before my muscles would fatigue and my breathing and heart rate would go up.<br />
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We always feel that we have to do a prescribed exercise program, like 20 minutes of cardio, 3 times a week, in the correct training heart rate zone. But really, all we have to do is <em>more</em>... do <em>more</em> than we're used to, <em>more</em> than we could last year, <em>more</em> than we could last week, <em>more</em> than we could yesterday.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBrVSFHBVZm_vTBJ04ms51RpqqLg_RQC9FT_EVJJLfWu5RNpTwB9Diyw4tAOzQ66jiDnkpzoHPh0KFk1yQbaVfNCHWzGKxVSiyNc92prsFB-_l_DQUK20cax5y0XfiarClfgVqWH25_0/s1600/Umebinyuo-start-now-wist_info-quote-300x204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBrVSFHBVZm_vTBJ04ms51RpqqLg_RQC9FT_EVJJLfWu5RNpTwB9Diyw4tAOzQ66jiDnkpzoHPh0KFk1yQbaVfNCHWzGKxVSiyNc92prsFB-_l_DQUK20cax5y0XfiarClfgVqWH25_0/s400/Umebinyuo-start-now-wist_info-quote-300x204.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I needed to stop beating myself up for being out-of-shape - stop <a href="http://when%20i%20came%20to%20accept%20my%20current%20limitations%20then%20-%20and%20only%20then%20-%20was%20i%20was%20able%20to%20make%20progress/" target="_blank">should-ing all over myself.</a> With friends who are running half-marathons it was hard to accept that, for me, at that time, a flight of stairs or a walk to the corner was in fact exercise, an overload. I can't compare myself to anyone else. When I came to accept my current limitations then - and <em>only </em>then - was I was able to make progress. I had to just <em>start</em>. And the only place I can start is where I'm at.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi637hB5fXegzjYX9sV4CL94rUU41rv6-BtyRYV4FgDqyekVoAsAdZgZj80M6pJH86ZopZYnKcXunKJfERZlz0S7eR01uK_ZXQJZP4fGwMtoABAfznRPbfFUn7WJu72caYHHxvsUVZWRf4/s1600/IMG_2432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi637hB5fXegzjYX9sV4CL94rUU41rv6-BtyRYV4FgDqyekVoAsAdZgZj80M6pJH86ZopZYnKcXunKJfERZlz0S7eR01uK_ZXQJZP4fGwMtoABAfznRPbfFUn7WJu72caYHHxvsUVZWRf4/s320/IMG_2432.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A temporary design using the first two of my wooden muranos.</td></tr>
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My doctor did send me for another x-ray and all it showed was some minor arthritic changes - I am over fifty after all. I saw a different sports med doctor who sent me for an MRI. While we waited for that appointment and results, she prescribed physio because my ankle muscles had become de-conditioned from being inactive and being in the cast. The physio also felt there was some nerve irritations going on so I had a specific set of exercises to do this past summer.<br />
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Finally, this fall, we had the results from the MRI. They only showed some ligaments that weren't healed properly. She said that what the MRI <em>did</em> show was that there was nothing she could do surgically. She recommended I keep up with the exercises and wear supportive shoes - no flip-flops for this chicka.<br />
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In the meantime I'd been working on my standing tolerance, often in ten-minute increments, like I did while redoing our <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/clean-up-with-tea-cup.html" target="_blank">sunporch</a>: standing while I washed dishes, or did laundry, or did food prep. And with more trips up and down the stairs I was feeling stronger. I could finally do stairs without knee pain!<br />
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On Thanksgiving weekend, we had our traditional Thanksgiving Day visit to the McKenzie King Estate in the Gatineau Park. Mike and the kids did a hike down to a waterfall but I stayed behind and sat on a bench, knowing I couldn't hike that far, especially up hill. And it sucked! I thought, "I want to hike with my family!" And so, the next weekend... drum roll please... I completed a 1.9 km hike! I'm not really a selfie person but I had to take a selfie on this momentous occasion!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTd1XVWq1l13PcGFHqYlklD6lMX8OCjAyQRLOrRlM_yZoULUdIUalbCjDkqpBvPfZNtSLcsmXvk4fi8psqXQtABiu0a35ghZjTDZs_-lRFHGat0hCz4AwAuw0ckE85LZ1Sa5vvJxx70Z8/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTd1XVWq1l13PcGFHqYlklD6lMX8OCjAyQRLOrRlM_yZoULUdIUalbCjDkqpBvPfZNtSLcsmXvk4fi8psqXQtABiu0a35ghZjTDZs_-lRFHGat0hCz4AwAuw0ckE85LZ1Sa5vvJxx70Z8/s320/IMG_1370.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes it was rainy and drizzling but I didn't care!</td></tr>
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It was hard! I took my time. I rested frequently during the walk. But I did it! And "I did it" for four weekends in a row. Four hikes. Four wooden beads for my Sacred Woods bracelet.<br />
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The last week was the hardest. We were planning an easy walk along the side of a lake with look-offs for bird-watching. But we missed a turn and ended up doing a hike with A LOT of elevation changes. Boy it was hard! My legs were like Jello at the end. Now you see why I'm so excited? I did it! And this was what I wrote on my phone:<br />
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"I did it! I did it! OMG I did it! I thought I was going to puke at the end. But still, I did it!"<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMNh52cPKztADsQbItyqkBgcREwhSm3BcOZitNgcEhDaqiYk9hFfywDX2TiFa9S5JaaPoQBuRj5lDDj7_t0JluhbhJMA6-ZBvt_P2dKbG8RqiTTYEJTgRj2KOTgP5mE3USmSvr8twzd4o/s1600/IMG_1499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMNh52cPKztADsQbItyqkBgcREwhSm3BcOZitNgcEhDaqiYk9hFfywDX2TiFa9S5JaaPoQBuRj5lDDj7_t0JluhbhJMA6-ZBvt_P2dKbG8RqiTTYEJTgRj2KOTgP5mE3USmSvr8twzd4o/s320/IMG_1499.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The four wooden Pandora beads I earned for my hikes.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgi6i4aD1ZANZEGsIg5vIlcsml_ffKGBMN7TPu0UuZqur9Esm2UML9kWWT3W4QJJf5vJiVdGkreqOCOPT-yrcAzYHcfER6tfLTdtOjNPVSgYSaJY9bcKUSrMvY5BT03E_b4XhqyXXekI4/s1600/IMG_7392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgi6i4aD1ZANZEGsIg5vIlcsml_ffKGBMN7TPu0UuZqur9Esm2UML9kWWT3W4QJJf5vJiVdGkreqOCOPT-yrcAzYHcfER6tfLTdtOjNPVSgYSaJY9bcKUSrMvY5BT03E_b4XhqyXXekI4/s320/IMG_7392.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brown Sacred Woods bracelet has some colour from the Wildflower muranos as well as green and yellow cz and peridot pieces.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Photo Gallery</strong></div>
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Take a stroll through these photos and videos to see the colours of Autumn on my hikes.<br />
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Thanksgiving Weekend, McKenzie King Estate, Gatineau Park, October 8, 2016<br />
You can see more photos from our traditional Thanksgiving Day visit to the estate in this <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/10/do-you-know-what-makes-you-happy.html" target="_blank">post</a> from last fall.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-OA5rDCboOsP9kTrfWnuBN1cNpcGRQ_YBBACTcfsN8qYRNDrC7gnwsc0eWasOOg3Rvlphu6MfNPPmFU6c7XclcOItMBQM02Er5T68qi8wDL0HeEK2t-uote3_JaJHvipJcYNXq1hMX28/s1600/IMG_1107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-OA5rDCboOsP9kTrfWnuBN1cNpcGRQ_YBBACTcfsN8qYRNDrC7gnwsc0eWasOOg3Rvlphu6MfNPPmFU6c7XclcOItMBQM02Er5T68qi8wDL0HeEK2t-uote3_JaJHvipJcYNXq1hMX28/s400/IMG_1107.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids checking the time.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoNsaL6Z3MjdDykyO_vUrhqO9LOXPuG8KiV94Ti9q3YYVCPAjg70GQ71qbyirZ3IAaltSfOc75kfqIz0315W7RwuaKrAoE6DOnBCNoG_yvRtEqMqWityPbh_ZITQ2pV7k_f7xtgNftxsQ/s1600/image_6483441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoNsaL6Z3MjdDykyO_vUrhqO9LOXPuG8KiV94Ti9q3YYVCPAjg70GQ71qbyirZ3IAaltSfOc75kfqIz0315W7RwuaKrAoE6DOnBCNoG_yvRtEqMqWityPbh_ZITQ2pV7k_f7xtgNftxsQ/s400/image_6483441.JPG" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the ruins on the King Estate.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6E0r-Y534TS8aydkSrY15QsqwRNH7EXcM1cd4NiXiGVZH4neljdbMlvWaXOrvDjfK2aHL1QyfKlJ-4M30VM8r_y5ef2_dOWtCQ69haBEEtNOTFwUiyY0qC5QbsreN4ZR247Z26gXbXkI/s1600/IMG_1111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6E0r-Y534TS8aydkSrY15QsqwRNH7EXcM1cd4NiXiGVZH4neljdbMlvWaXOrvDjfK2aHL1QyfKlJ-4M30VM8r_y5ef2_dOWtCQ69haBEEtNOTFwUiyY0qC5QbsreN4ZR247Z26gXbXkI/s400/IMG_1111.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even the forest floor is pretty.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CHUGBhcq9mIw7TEXyAAkxm7Y2wzqOqbpo37Fpl2fP7ecgYx7IvUgy5xhoUD7m90LpVrOBFpmkrld8AnlGeHQ2NiCSvn-_dmxNIvwpEkemqqu6J6t51GvbiQK9eki-5AEeaLTbKlV9oQ/s1600/IMG_1145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CHUGBhcq9mIw7TEXyAAkxm7Y2wzqOqbpo37Fpl2fP7ecgYx7IvUgy5xhoUD7m90LpVrOBFpmkrld8AnlGeHQ2NiCSvn-_dmxNIvwpEkemqqu6J6t51GvbiQK9eki-5AEeaLTbKlV9oQ/s400/IMG_1145.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mitchell wanted me to take a photo of him in the tree.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWN2qlat8PkUJS0-piBgvYBEW1kG4tI3gGFmKy3qwnKmx-iBFXYrDStPkMP-PeZJDuZqXB32JSeH3muv7pKybiMjG8_CWDUSl0iqIcsgVpigIHQleSEo2Bd2qDXw1RpXPKRjm3tWvzCk/s1600/IMG_1155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWN2qlat8PkUJS0-piBgvYBEW1kG4tI3gGFmKy3qwnKmx-iBFXYrDStPkMP-PeZJDuZqXB32JSeH3muv7pKybiMjG8_CWDUSl0iqIcsgVpigIHQleSEo2Bd2qDXw1RpXPKRjm3tWvzCk/s400/IMG_1155.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mitchell was using his new iPhone to take photos and was photo-bombed by his sister and father.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Check out this YouTube video I made with Boomerang:<br />"Playing among the ruins at McKenzie King Estate"</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/f-k6GwEJnBI/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/f-k6GwEJnBI?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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Thanksgiving Weekend, Monday October 10, 2016<br />
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<table 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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoWXrxlqKVZ1tH5FdIHQzpf1hiAbq3q0JihqcLYnmDhiEBCj2vMNFudalRsaxmTC09rj2K4TY5e2ujgmw4F892FL3Lon3r6R3bVGviv2tfcx4q8e8rFB4abiEw4EtBlDQB0zrIu0xxg4/s1600/IMG_1200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoWXrxlqKVZ1tH5FdIHQzpf1hiAbq3q0JihqcLYnmDhiEBCj2vMNFudalRsaxmTC09rj2K4TY5e2ujgmw4F892FL3Lon3r6R3bVGviv2tfcx4q8e8rFB4abiEw4EtBlDQB0zrIu0xxg4/s400/IMG_1200.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brother Thomas and his son Theo visited us from Montreal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVMiiIrFG3BkBGeyD9vb81WjzKBz_PRgeqtR0tC9jp0uvQ-WR0Mzv_oneG__XNuTjTJWjFRj1Gz4hFlqC2LJRYOgyVv5LtIaOPfvLpthiVaJX3iyHjGWzlqWFUPYjvTJvg_-f8W1EL2o/s1600/IMG_1198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVMiiIrFG3BkBGeyD9vb81WjzKBz_PRgeqtR0tC9jp0uvQ-WR0Mzv_oneG__XNuTjTJWjFRj1Gz4hFlqC2LJRYOgyVv5LtIaOPfvLpthiVaJX3iyHjGWzlqWFUPYjvTJvg_-f8W1EL2o/s400/IMG_1198.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We went for a walk at the Arboretum, part of Ottawa's Central Experimental Farm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hike #1: Sugarbush Trail, Gatineau Park, October 16, 2016<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIa4hanFBxKTgaLV38BIruIeUT2LqN_WwQAzXBhidG0AnklZiGZWEoYINoCx94o_MPNehx4vUm4mj8uZV8ovYoSBITX1etMl_c2OFkLg-AsJiKGk4xQVqdVTgONKAm3aaUa1VnP7T3RA/s1600/IMG_1367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIa4hanFBxKTgaLV38BIruIeUT2LqN_WwQAzXBhidG0AnklZiGZWEoYINoCx94o_MPNehx4vUm4mj8uZV8ovYoSBITX1etMl_c2OFkLg-AsJiKGk4xQVqdVTgONKAm3aaUa1VnP7T3RA/s400/IMG_1367.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not many orange and red leaves remaining but still very pretty.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRV2c8nBt18504AHU2qF0DI948IUZmOK_9t3JS9hx4Xge2Mz1v91G1pez5rJHqA3rsKO8-CyRp9MB8PSpfTRN2Xg9c6m7M1tbd83wdzPgfWAvV9fpqRY-QtDU2vABUlMchMFPud1btEik/s1600/IMG_1368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRV2c8nBt18504AHU2qF0DI948IUZmOK_9t3JS9hx4Xge2Mz1v91G1pez5rJHqA3rsKO8-CyRp9MB8PSpfTRN2Xg9c6m7M1tbd83wdzPgfWAvV9fpqRY-QtDU2vABUlMchMFPud1btEik/s400/IMG_1368.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A trail through the woods always makes you wonder what's around the next corner.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHlDJTl2AO-MI-YdKekcx5OTdVlPc2J_FCkRvlNHfsun4LUKSmt1nsl7mstDlCoG-Fsdb1wsifJTlDioPIcKTwxea1jjh8D1NncVqGQgln4BcvKeLbGg652g55SLCqKy2VREhoyxP0fmg/s1600/IMG_1369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHlDJTl2AO-MI-YdKekcx5OTdVlPc2J_FCkRvlNHfsun4LUKSmt1nsl7mstDlCoG-Fsdb1wsifJTlDioPIcKTwxea1jjh8D1NncVqGQgln4BcvKeLbGg652g55SLCqKy2VREhoyxP0fmg/s400/IMG_1369.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Despite the rain and drizzle there was still some beauty to be found.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hike #2: Dunlop Trail,Gatineau Park, October 23, 2016<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj37uhr_fGtsAgJxzcAR7VXnSbEgwIGQaeBnv_4ib-tqsx5d-6Ss2q9PsrCk5AneBIUVqDeGExYeqbxPwfK9dRXuBVVOfpzqIIPWFCBrQ65qDUwzZhm-QO93E7cpbxaTGNCBYMTPf0Pmc/s1600/IMG_1443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj37uhr_fGtsAgJxzcAR7VXnSbEgwIGQaeBnv_4ib-tqsx5d-6Ss2q9PsrCk5AneBIUVqDeGExYeqbxPwfK9dRXuBVVOfpzqIIPWFCBrQ65qDUwzZhm-QO93E7cpbxaTGNCBYMTPf0Pmc/s400/IMG_1443.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't these stairs look inviting? Little did we know this was actually the end of the trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivoe-Racrz3a6ntNANnOlsJpmNoEEs7PtwVO67KUJUU4QsnwMPO3uVIaaTAYBl70JfzNKH_qRQKJocK3UvitaJBFGEN-Qu8tAkQxuhfEJ6NXqQfWw9uzYXU5MGkw7WhfnP_6f4UBShiwk/s1600/IMG_1446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivoe-Racrz3a6ntNANnOlsJpmNoEEs7PtwVO67KUJUU4QsnwMPO3uVIaaTAYBl70JfzNKH_qRQKJocK3UvitaJBFGEN-Qu8tAkQxuhfEJ6NXqQfWw9uzYXU5MGkw7WhfnP_6f4UBShiwk/s400/IMG_1446.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was such a delightful surprise to discover this creek next to a picnic area. This is the bottom of Fortune Creek which flows down from the ski hill at Camp Fortune.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<table 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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVSEMFpWCeDDvhs3JMJTIqfj13B12J-Z_1uj82_zVeP2_X5duU_VXAuBJvedSUktXhekAfNA9YuZpXHvKCK8hZev2I_yk7cUrxZRagPXtwdCPzGBBrZz1gM3P5hJeAllG0ciSvHlTtTQI/s1600/IMG_1447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVSEMFpWCeDDvhs3JMJTIqfj13B12J-Z_1uj82_zVeP2_X5duU_VXAuBJvedSUktXhekAfNA9YuZpXHvKCK8hZev2I_yk7cUrxZRagPXtwdCPzGBBrZz1gM3P5hJeAllG0ciSvHlTtTQI/s400/IMG_1447.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was so pleased to see the colours of leaves and sky reflecting in this creek.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
A short YouTube video from when I discovered there was a waterfall<br />
"There's nothing more soothing than the sound of running water"<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ck5FgMMW1Es/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ck5FgMMW1Es?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSe4Ov3jSt_N-NqrKB5MF3qW_bS4ApW0Q6FzRbRCLB9EAyNd0-x65JxiPktwKpPGe7Ku0CWSTwKg2LxtKE6UwoGXiE1ACQ1cJaEpLVwJEwAkkmnuUL0oJjf0Papa35JU525uWwDG2Cao/s1600/IMG_1451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSe4Ov3jSt_N-NqrKB5MF3qW_bS4ApW0Q6FzRbRCLB9EAyNd0-x65JxiPktwKpPGe7Ku0CWSTwKg2LxtKE6UwoGXiE1ACQ1cJaEpLVwJEwAkkmnuUL0oJjf0Papa35JU525uWwDG2Cao/s400/IMG_1451.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now we knew why this trail looks so short on the map; it was all uphill.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Another short YouTube video taken from the bridge at the top of the hike<br />
"Looking further up the creek"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1fcIaneNUXc/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1fcIaneNUXc?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgImkqaSg3WsajUMR19kFKBiTspd-t2EjAI7sBSHSM_K62Wlw4Yk6FGB75giV-oDpObXcgtJI1lcgCM2vd5pXFGm6v8cGpJ8LkrsP_TuYnOwtQUbDhT_w7GVqvAZXDAlYmmqBI-qyhwypw/s1600/image_6483441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgImkqaSg3WsajUMR19kFKBiTspd-t2EjAI7sBSHSM_K62Wlw4Yk6FGB75giV-oDpObXcgtJI1lcgCM2vd5pXFGm6v8cGpJ8LkrsP_TuYnOwtQUbDhT_w7GVqvAZXDAlYmmqBI-qyhwypw/s400/image_6483441.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some lovely colours inviting us to cross the bridge and down the other side of the trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hike #3: Pioneer Trail, Gatineau Park, October 30, 2016<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMwM4H1ftpcdK2MsfOzjGtAVkAumYXe5FtbUiTIyCvrBS4koNl_P1kp2AY9lo8XtdC9Hrzjf_VdS0htFkyBlsblwgteCJKpC5g9XhpRDiGAhDOLBP3438NrDJqkXT91Kn3ga8MR7XMhk/s1600/IMG_1775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMwM4H1ftpcdK2MsfOzjGtAVkAumYXe5FtbUiTIyCvrBS4koNl_P1kp2AY9lo8XtdC9Hrzjf_VdS0htFkyBlsblwgteCJKpC5g9XhpRDiGAhDOLBP3438NrDJqkXT91Kn3ga8MR7XMhk/s400/IMG_1775.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We managed to drag these two along on our weekend walk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjs2sXcCjwNn-dSQPtiybapIf5EAZWBDu7lx-OY9vrTwD4FI8zVzFVHXFFTWPRraIClcoejd7gox942OsPWovMsClwlr8It9vd5Lrl0js4j76ApkuT-0KnZUE0YGuuZWLfv4tu-dIJpc/s1600/IMG_1782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjs2sXcCjwNn-dSQPtiybapIf5EAZWBDu7lx-OY9vrTwD4FI8zVzFVHXFFTWPRraIClcoejd7gox942OsPWovMsClwlr8It9vd5Lrl0js4j76ApkuT-0KnZUE0YGuuZWLfv4tu-dIJpc/s400/IMG_1782.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow leaves always seem to be the last to fall.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukmaH4HP38ZcVTHXLlHerbUjpyE9c22t0-Ks-WsdVvfNkotygib9FYgdJT6edwDKtmoYY7xPD89pTZs6PyA5cezcSUGDQWCq77rZtkHMt_CUairzOnaYuVneJpUtt2JNLiAnmoAKrYq4/s1600/IMG_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukmaH4HP38ZcVTHXLlHerbUjpyE9c22t0-Ks-WsdVvfNkotygib9FYgdJT6edwDKtmoYY7xPD89pTZs6PyA5cezcSUGDQWCq77rZtkHMt_CUairzOnaYuVneJpUtt2JNLiAnmoAKrYq4/s400/IMG_1783.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not much colour in the trees any more but plenty to the ground.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IpnArcEURwIB1siSymQK5Wp-cflsa9BvpUrFP_yRhZzf9WfoO1YTEXEa-2lrUwPD7RVfZcJcwYL6MzOvOLkRaWR6lOkAsTmUyXK73Gfp_x8DOfDirMQWkEd2d8rwDc8edxaa8kNOZWw/s1600/IMG_1785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IpnArcEURwIB1siSymQK5Wp-cflsa9BvpUrFP_yRhZzf9WfoO1YTEXEa-2lrUwPD7RVfZcJcwYL6MzOvOLkRaWR6lOkAsTmUyXK73Gfp_x8DOfDirMQWkEd2d8rwDc8edxaa8kNOZWw/s400/IMG_1785.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike showing what a big heart he has with this large heart-shaped leaf.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hike #4: Lac des Fees, Gatineau Park, November 6, 2016<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVoNjCjqoF57VdVFuBZ_ftQYqUKaNzJhnNCLJR86elB3X5WtPOM8GlcZKizUOdp60QNO-_2qdJc_3HOlenGZhoDr0H1NkdxZcjwxMKXdRRrZYZV8XH1_hFyRDoYKMy3Di5PmIMu8z_5O4/s1600/IMG_2111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVoNjCjqoF57VdVFuBZ_ftQYqUKaNzJhnNCLJR86elB3X5WtPOM8GlcZKizUOdp60QNO-_2qdJc_3HOlenGZhoDr0H1NkdxZcjwxMKXdRRrZYZV8XH1_hFyRDoYKMy3Di5PmIMu8z_5O4/s400/IMG_2111.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Despite being November it was a beautiful sunny day.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQr2ocvWAUi7YRYYfr-HuNbgg5AB9U5__20Zap5yZ-QacYUSLouFrw4yRwQ40oNbddNvweFNSK1ISybUlT7whz2AT3DAEaAqz0qkFVR2t5j0F9bMZH1E3DPoD_-aQeFca9eRt-NSQKDE/s1600/IMG_2112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQr2ocvWAUi7YRYYfr-HuNbgg5AB9U5__20Zap5yZ-QacYUSLouFrw4yRwQ40oNbddNvweFNSK1ISybUlT7whz2AT3DAEaAqz0qkFVR2t5j0F9bMZH1E3DPoD_-aQeFca9eRt-NSQKDE/s400/IMG_2112.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still a little colour with the yellow standing out against the evergreens.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRvZJiUu8Syxj1IPjVejM9zQj4qzBhG2-aDhJ2U9gDkqxNdUwRPr4wLKJgjkhAKipfW3SEtjxdB79U680X4NW2nNA8Z3rkNRUoppdWykNnFU3nFGRtaMaHul4BsX2dwNO050LquheObs/s1600/IMG_2113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRvZJiUu8Syxj1IPjVejM9zQj4qzBhG2-aDhJ2U9gDkqxNdUwRPr4wLKJgjkhAKipfW3SEtjxdB79U680X4NW2nNA8Z3rkNRUoppdWykNnFU3nFGRtaMaHul4BsX2dwNO050LquheObs/s400/IMG_2113.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband, the former Boy Scout, telling me that a cluster of needles with 5 needles is a white pine (as in the photo); two needles would be a red pine. Who knew?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggz-UoFyZQJDXFj2tLip0lQe7wzpVNVrtum4iP6ANExLIfIii8Hi9vyALrfP02ObDWId_NhA2VY0W80yEdaHDcelJpZuTTBA-XiO94rqbDmuXgua4oSW3-vPfC0fZnMmnntXC5wS4tUQM/s1600/IMG_2114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggz-UoFyZQJDXFj2tLip0lQe7wzpVNVrtum4iP6ANExLIfIii8Hi9vyALrfP02ObDWId_NhA2VY0W80yEdaHDcelJpZuTTBA-XiO94rqbDmuXgua4oSW3-vPfC0fZnMmnntXC5wS4tUQM/s400/IMG_2114.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oak trees seem to be the last to lose their leaves after they turn this rusty colour.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4fx5UF7-DhCxdyMK6CCFRSv1vPx5Zs4pbyed2-yM8uiIY6v1bnPt6Fo2HR6-z_0Na0TYZ0RZOCOzhmjKkilZ7NFtnby5jRtWG65KIjs1xr9yLZK8azQDs43txpoYxLCaiz-tvCCUm8EY/s1600/IMG_2116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4fx5UF7-DhCxdyMK6CCFRSv1vPx5Zs4pbyed2-yM8uiIY6v1bnPt6Fo2HR6-z_0Na0TYZ0RZOCOzhmjKkilZ7NFtnby5jRtWG65KIjs1xr9yLZK8azQDs43txpoYxLCaiz-tvCCUm8EY/s400/IMG_2116.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When we hit this intersection we realized we'd gone the wrong way.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hike #5: Lac des Fees, Gatineau Park, second attempt November 13, 2016<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljE2Xys2wmVo0I_FZCtFMD5XJ6OVqIdEfaLi2ApnAKklKXNaDwNoXP4rECsLon_hhyunOH-dVsiqpgk8iQIs4257N3qzxphBQdgsx86He25NSGP4GPeBmL-SsJkr_95o07-iAPHWzkSE/s1600/image_6483441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljE2Xys2wmVo0I_FZCtFMD5XJ6OVqIdEfaLi2ApnAKklKXNaDwNoXP4rECsLon_hhyunOH-dVsiqpgk8iQIs4257N3qzxphBQdgsx86He25NSGP4GPeBmL-SsJkr_95o07-iAPHWzkSE/s400/image_6483441.JPG" width="400" /></a></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Td8Zg4s2HvvbFEp3JIXkOOp2eNqF78Uj5SSiz7Z0b95On_aQjljbTeoMU4lU4J4CsclyGmCNzbWlgp8EEHkZggmpAyRi0kKxwbW_ggLz6-Abt5s4VRPOIcSZkqXj0eIo-RDTky0ArpM/s1600/IMG_2313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Td8Zg4s2HvvbFEp3JIXkOOp2eNqF78Uj5SSiz7Z0b95On_aQjljbTeoMU4lU4J4CsclyGmCNzbWlgp8EEHkZggmpAyRi0kKxwbW_ggLz6-Abt5s4VRPOIcSZkqXj0eIo-RDTky0ArpM/s400/IMG_2313.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The uneven ground on this hike was particularly challenging on the recovering ankle.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFykBBqfkzeIR-htfh42FnjzefYwVnUVhbNRVbuPERqx4RGzgOtND7SBMCLnolK3j_PqMXe9_dCMKtcJ6gGceN6o_9yAs3IlKyXNnHXca27hffix3ZjugXAMSXZJXo_7J1Yo4HEJntY0/s1600/IMG_2316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFykBBqfkzeIR-htfh42FnjzefYwVnUVhbNRVbuPERqx4RGzgOtND7SBMCLnolK3j_PqMXe9_dCMKtcJ6gGceN6o_9yAs3IlKyXNnHXca27hffix3ZjugXAMSXZJXo_7J1Yo4HEJntY0/s400/IMG_2316.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was having so much muscle fatigue and was so happy to finally see the end of this trail!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Hike #6: Chelsea Trail, Gatineau Park, November 20, 2016<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvjf0UsRSVmDvjDrNDpv5RiKTvMUqJhXYXyroAU2nv5W9ztLMeEcp8Ay_Lgs3MACCh3M9ARnY75wwXq7LdhG8zJ1iZdIZMaBuAdsp5u_IfeCVZeorlUH6qlqBpsg7Vh0u8TNkbRHyCgSE/s1600/IMG_2392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvjf0UsRSVmDvjDrNDpv5RiKTvMUqJhXYXyroAU2nv5W9ztLMeEcp8Ay_Lgs3MACCh3M9ARnY75wwXq7LdhG8zJ1iZdIZMaBuAdsp5u_IfeCVZeorlUH6qlqBpsg7Vh0u8TNkbRHyCgSE/s400/IMG_2392.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only colour now comes from the dried leaves on the ground and the green moss on the rocks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxzzjvTrmQxDoPBZRs9kDyIa0JEy0Ti5_Ha1cHXSMX-idcRf7wuc_GXtY8qK6F8XMjVoNyWBEWNNqtep97mA56ABsnWjT-qrTslB55Dk94oXAlreo6P2-qIVdkBHw-V1uSMqvulxoqVk/s1600/IMG_2395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxzzjvTrmQxDoPBZRs9kDyIa0JEy0Ti5_Ha1cHXSMX-idcRf7wuc_GXtY8qK6F8XMjVoNyWBEWNNqtep97mA56ABsnWjT-qrTslB55Dk94oXAlreo6P2-qIVdkBHw-V1uSMqvulxoqVk/s400/IMG_2395.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These leaves look like they could be pounded out of copper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBv4X3hyphenhyphenKD3EoR3sQehIG9dEUowb6LHrlE_9UJHdMXa_bAYZ14_3SVTrVodMz6HU1UzGKcwnY8UG2uhCslLUJZtHyGTIYbBB3hzzlCJh6oEf0ajtLMaXVeLyRacReELIfGgULXw-Nzfy4/s1600/IMG_2396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBv4X3hyphenhyphenKD3EoR3sQehIG9dEUowb6LHrlE_9UJHdMXa_bAYZ14_3SVTrVodMz6HU1UzGKcwnY8UG2uhCslLUJZtHyGTIYbBB3hzzlCJh6oEf0ajtLMaXVeLyRacReELIfGgULXw-Nzfy4/s400/IMG_2396.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ground on this part of the trail was really soft from all the fallen pine needles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAM3rj_pCrvJwMme73usE3ELpbQj0PdfPuGGOyeljw-UNUHRVvpJN1uryzqwikkKx2YtPgYlLJIEwsq-l9iQKheizU_WQtG4umObG1JXHAR0NnsuSSA0sy7T0Icl-Vr5Ma4G06mOMxI0/s1600/IMG_2391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAM3rj_pCrvJwMme73usE3ELpbQj0PdfPuGGOyeljw-UNUHRVvpJN1uryzqwikkKx2YtPgYlLJIEwsq-l9iQKheizU_WQtG4umObG1JXHAR0NnsuSSA0sy7T0Icl-Vr5Ma4G06mOMxI0/s400/IMG_2391.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We stopped to take a photo on the bridge over this brook. Not much colour left but it was still nice to be outside. .</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Hike #7: Chelsea Trail, Gatineau Park, November 26, 2016<br />
After our first snow-fall we revisited the same trail as the previous week to see what it might be like for snowshoeing later in the winter.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBo154earnG9YzvkJCKNVfgvIZNuCll6LQ6LOvSJpDfpymRPUJFenyZ6jJBkPmrYkp5uMSgcXUT_73dq1ac_38fS_06GKPtFtJi9uHgVpomPRQo5IiNMthfjCaHLCN7YIBVdYQSxgNHlM/s1600/IMG_2453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBo154earnG9YzvkJCKNVfgvIZNuCll6LQ6LOvSJpDfpymRPUJFenyZ6jJBkPmrYkp5uMSgcXUT_73dq1ac_38fS_06GKPtFtJi9uHgVpomPRQo5IiNMthfjCaHLCN7YIBVdYQSxgNHlM/s400/IMG_2453.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Same bridge as above, looking a little different after our first snow fall.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0r7iV_-sYuZtw6jfRWMzXKSm6UyZimxgxq4_jguT8XpSU6X6mYkUEB9nYRlfrJhY2Q6vi5_ve7lixl9BVP3L-9cREH3k4GNGZO5l38rG2Pdmi0iZkYCwuokDyWP1oT7SvO_M0uShaCt8/s1600/IMG_2455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0r7iV_-sYuZtw6jfRWMzXKSm6UyZimxgxq4_jguT8XpSU6X6mYkUEB9nYRlfrJhY2Q6vi5_ve7lixl9BVP3L-9cREH3k4GNGZO5l38rG2Pdmi0iZkYCwuokDyWP1oT7SvO_M0uShaCt8/s400/IMG_2455.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bushes, water, snow, ice, and a little sunshine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-30804838810942653822016-11-04T21:17:00.000-04:002016-11-04T21:18:40.895-04:00When your brain and body scream 911The strangest thing happened a few weeks ago. I had this
very unfamiliar feeling. My daughter had just left for her 3-day camping trip
in a provincial park 3 hours from home. And my son was 3 hours away in the
other direction at a cross country meet, and not due back until the evening. My
kids were 100% someone else’s responsibility that day. I thought, “What is this
strange feeling?” (Actually I asked the question on Facebook.) In hindsight, if
I had to hazard a guess, I would say I felt calm. Huh. How unusual. I was not
feeling anxious, vigilant, waiting for the other shoe to drop. I looked around
me and felt happy!<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQrV2tOSWGAYQdNxMqBUKV4ShDarAA1gDwH0v30BGB42IS-nCIHrAYhgSLKzeseFZDhp2DlhtALlVk9tchbczeBZ5BM1lo763R8xzfAZs_MLTlnGlSGaTRC9e_Pl6YygTm6n12cNy9xc/s1600/IMG_2055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQrV2tOSWGAYQdNxMqBUKV4ShDarAA1gDwH0v30BGB42IS-nCIHrAYhgSLKzeseFZDhp2DlhtALlVk9tchbczeBZ5BM1lo763R8xzfAZs_MLTlnGlSGaTRC9e_Pl6YygTm6n12cNy9xc/s320/IMG_2055.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The teal "Flowers for You" muranos.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p><br />
I have to say this recent development is quite hard to
believe, especially if I look back just a few years. And I want to share with
you how I got here. If you or anyone you know battles anxiety or depression
please read on – and share this post – because there is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">hope</i> and there is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">help</i>.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
In April of 2014 I went to my family doctor and asked for
help. He asked me lots of questions about my history: I had an eating disorder
in high school and beyond, I’d had a number of major depressive episodes, and despite
being in recovery from my eating disorder for a few years, I was having panic
attacks. He felt that my case was quite complex and so he referred me to the Shared
Care Mental Health Team, a group of mental health professionals that provide
consultation to family practitioners in the Family Medicine Centres associated
with the hospitals in the city.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjSush0FY5z0eGi54_8G8vPiTOm3pkQuNkWt5BJr25VG7zV-Tqm4cBc_xs98HmJIoQ70v0Sm_dbPgj5HNlbY8v477IscU1RBNljzQTXsYovU5HGNRkkHtxBaoNzFKlBXKue-EboHEuTM/s1600/IMG_0894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjSush0FY5z0eGi54_8G8vPiTOm3pkQuNkWt5BJr25VG7zV-Tqm4cBc_xs98HmJIoQ70v0Sm_dbPgj5HNlbY8v477IscU1RBNljzQTXsYovU5HGNRkkHtxBaoNzFKlBXKue-EboHEuTM/s320/IMG_0894.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter Taylor, home from her canoe camping trip</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2g0I6MkHQTE5FDCodHBnG6Ypd2VEqI2N6w_U5YZWcUi66ujrizgeyjOpsCY02zHBCVjGrupDfp9z2uzx0n2hfhtiLcemzKbBeJYLeK4ldmSOPqitsoErMkk31g8zGtwI8VGxXKoTyZUA/s1600/IMG_1620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2g0I6MkHQTE5FDCodHBnG6Ypd2VEqI2N6w_U5YZWcUi66ujrizgeyjOpsCY02zHBCVjGrupDfp9z2uzx0n2hfhtiLcemzKbBeJYLeK4ldmSOPqitsoErMkk31g8zGtwI8VGxXKoTyZUA/s320/IMG_1620.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son Mitchell at the end of his run in a local cross country meet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I first met with the mental health nurse and then in July of 2014 I met with Dr. Mercer, the psychiatrist
with the Shared Care Mental Health Team. After reviewing the notes from the
mental health nurse and asking me lots of questions she diagnosed me with Panic
Disorder (PD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and Social Anxiety Disorder
(SAD). We discussed the possibility that I have PTSD and ADD but she did not
have time to formally assess for that. Of course I was already in recovery from
my eating disorder. You can read my <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/i-have-battled-eating-disorder-and.html" target="_blank">post</a> about how I started my recovery - and my
journey with Pandora - in December 2011.<o:p></o:p></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWlrUIQmG1ATntUPvgS-ZXMsn2acuBgE97AR20yTXIuG_b9FO-MplclgxsfN3-V4yIoaUyQJqSeanw9EoXobzX_TLYSxerrNrfS7mp5qZhkMAt8grpD69rKRvA-YC3EFvMeUVaksoBWg/s1600/IMG_8521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWlrUIQmG1ATntUPvgS-ZXMsn2acuBgE97AR20yTXIuG_b9FO-MplclgxsfN3-V4yIoaUyQJqSeanw9EoXobzX_TLYSxerrNrfS7mp5qZhkMAt8grpD69rKRvA-YC3EFvMeUVaksoBWg/s320/IMG_8521.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The teal muranos on my Lucerne Recovery bracelet.<br />
The two teal "Flowers for You" muranos are on the top right.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Dr. Mercer then explained to me WHY I had depression and
anxiety. I think my jaw must have hit the table, because I was so shocked that
she could describe me so accurately, especially since we’d just met. In fact I
was so gobsmacked that I didn’t write down a single note – very unusual for me!
Later, when I got home, I realized I couldn’t remember all that she had said
and I desperately needed to know! I called her office and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">begged</i> the receptionist to let me speak to her – not usually part
of the normal course of events – and here’s what she explained to me.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“You’ve been living in
the 911 system. We have two different emotion systems (psychologists actually
identify three, but for simplicity we use just two). One is called the
“Affiliative System” (which we call “Wise Mind”) where you feel emotions like
joy, happiness, or disappointment. The other is the “Threat System” (often
referred to as fight or flight, or 911) and there are only three emotions when
you are in 911: anger, fear, and shame.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Some people are wired
to 1. have more intense responses of anger, fear or shame and 2. have a stronger
“preference” for the “safety system.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">When you grow up in a
stressful home it puts a lot of stress on a child, which increases the levels
of the stress hormone cortisol and strengthens the 911 system.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Your mom was busy and
not available – and not effective at dealing with emotions. And your dad was
expecting you to take care of </i>him<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">. This
led to high anxiety and perfectionism to try to prevent your parents from
fighting.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The eating disorder
was a way to damp down the anxiety and find a way out of the conundrum of
feeling responsible to get control of your life and regulate your emotions.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Getting depressed in
university when you were injured (and couldn’t play volleyball), as well as
getting depressed after your wedding, was linked to a sense of not knowing how
to make everything work – so the 911 system kicked in.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
There you have it. That’s me in a nutshell. That’s the
explanation of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">why</i> I am the way I am.
Or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">was</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdEvjRhSkrQuBe0Vh5jyB_OTXXXYhRGP27D5_gLxsQAcqAXI4NwfEwBu814x55zAgjMOLkvhgLZy8Q9x5lz-d98py7uBbYiWisu6jvhzrM5yfC1Xd0-CveCAlJTnHiRFLcWBsIJCtLBM/s1600/b8f31bcab8a49778cc34bd18c7d6d5a0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdEvjRhSkrQuBe0Vh5jyB_OTXXXYhRGP27D5_gLxsQAcqAXI4NwfEwBu814x55zAgjMOLkvhgLZy8Q9x5lz-d98py7uBbYiWisu6jvhzrM5yfC1Xd0-CveCAlJTnHiRFLcWBsIJCtLBM/s400/b8f31bcab8a49778cc34bd18c7d6d5a0.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Dr. Mercer reassured me that the “Wise Mind” system is
always there, even if we’re not using it at the moment. And she reassured me
that it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">was</i> starting to engage: I was
making improvements in our home (see my <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/clean-up-with-tea-cup.html" target="_blank">post</a> about tackling the mess in our kitchen) and I was
doing behaviour activation – making changes in my behaviour – and earning my
Pandora rewards.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
She advised me to remember that anxiety is about trying to
make something work. She said, “Stay with the anxiety and know that it can’t
cause any harm.” Tall order, that!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Dr. Mercer was able to make some recommendations about where
I should go from there. She recommended another anti-depressant, vitamin B12
supplements, and a sleep study, as well as referring me to the "Day Hospital"
program.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3x_filo-eDbpnLPb4OrfCtBxjTEsai3Jtv4ryTS4djW4iwXhLHQdIr_DhzB7qSmRkBL742JF2QqYx2m3krtGgG33nb_d5D47fokv8Oo7Al5-VPuznDmnYFG1QX3qyE6yaNBxeXLXLVl0/s1600/IMG_7961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3x_filo-eDbpnLPb4OrfCtBxjTEsai3Jtv4ryTS4djW4iwXhLHQdIr_DhzB7qSmRkBL742JF2QqYx2m3krtGgG33nb_d5D47fokv8Oo7Al5-VPuznDmnYFG1QX3qyE6yaNBxeXLXLVl0/s320/IMG_7961.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I was followed by the mental health nurse from Shared Care
until I entered the Day Hospital program in September of 2014. You can read my
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/09/do-i-really-deserve-to-be-happy-and.html" target="_blank">post</a> from September 2014 to see how I was feeling right before I entered the intensive
(full-day, six-week) Day Hospital program - when I felt that I didn’t <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">deserve</i> to be happy and healthy.<br />
<br />
Day Hospital lived up to its description as “intensive” with
a daily psychotherapy group with a psychiatrist and social worker. There were
also workshops on goal-setting, identifying and expressing feelings, stress
management and coping skills, and cognitive behavioural change (CBC). There was
an introduction to anger, grief and loss, the drama triangle, mindfulness, and
core beliefs. I had one-on-one appointments with the social worker and
psychiatrist and worked on CBC one-on-one with the occupational therapist. On my
discharge from that program the staff recommended that I find a therapist to
work with, asking specifically for someone who could help me with emotion regulation
and changing my core beliefs.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
In January 2015 I started six months of schema-focused therapy
at the Ottawa Institute of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy addressing my core beliefs. In those six months I
learned how to identify my (many) triggers and change my feelings and responses. This made
an enormous difference with respect to anger and anxiety. In the Fall of 2015 I
participated in an eight-week group therapy program called “Working with
Emotions,” based in part on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). The goal of this
group was to learn emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, core
mindfulness, and distress tolerance. And finally, in the winter of 2016, I
participated in an eight-week course called “Mindfulness for Stress and Symptom
Management” at the Ottawa Mindfulness Clinic and began a regular meditation practice.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVLqKaPdifzKSAyyB5X2iyGl68yCcV57rDFmO4QCAuFn3UdHMlnHQHN4SAIMTgfRYCReMRyUX0UMRjtAXZLvNxmpE0JYYWDd_1uGpCdufHwgVP8MXmKVEzDmWV0VMuALD6qig8yOLWZDU/s1600/IMG_5847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVLqKaPdifzKSAyyB5X2iyGl68yCcV57rDFmO4QCAuFn3UdHMlnHQHN4SAIMTgfRYCReMRyUX0UMRjtAXZLvNxmpE0JYYWDd_1uGpCdufHwgVP8MXmKVEzDmWV0VMuALD6qig8yOLWZDU/s320/IMG_5847.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An early version of my Lucerne Recovery bracelet,<br />
with only one "Flowers for You" murano.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I learned soooooo much in all of these programs that I feel
like a completely different person than I was two years ago when I first asked
for help. Two years ago I had <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">no</i> idea
there were all these different therapies available. Back in my twenties and
early thirties, I had <em>years </em>of psychotherapy for my depression, eventually
going off the antidepressant when I was pregnant with my twins in 2001. I was
in group therapy for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">years</i> at The
Eating Disorder Clinic. But in the last fifteen to twenty years there have been
so many advances in the treatment of mental health, so many new approaches to
recovery.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Two years ago I didn’t understand that I was suffering. I
did not understand that I was in survival mode. I did not understand that I had
no hope for the future, no dreams or ambitions. I did not understand that I was
not living a life worth living. After all that work I can look around me now and
feel happy. I now have desires. I now have hope. I now know where to get help
if I need it. And most importantly I believe that I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">deserve </i>to feel better.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
For others who live with anxiety, depression, an eating
disorder, or any other mental illness, please know that there is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">hope</i>. If you are suffering, please know
that there is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">help</i>. Ask for it! You <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">deserve</i> to be at peace with yourself and
the world, and to live a life worth living.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZFisDYExFbhGTm90zAsByY_WxCycJ2WaCOrteRgbaAfUvxdIPM8y15YfzVkp1oFszu4YNUe3JOz4936uSRgBOKXAxia6l4uIbTWJ2iztnumKM3tMFxC_a6ZY0PGQO9XNgRQuLSbbKkA0/s1600/IMG_1533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZFisDYExFbhGTm90zAsByY_WxCycJ2WaCOrteRgbaAfUvxdIPM8y15YfzVkp1oFszu4YNUe3JOz4936uSRgBOKXAxia6l4uIbTWJ2iztnumKM3tMFxC_a6ZY0PGQO9XNgRQuLSbbKkA0/s400/IMG_1533.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How I "stack" my teal Lucerne Recovery bracelet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I’ve shared in a previous <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/03/moms-wives-women-how-do-you-reward.html" target="_blank">post</a> that the teal “Flowers for You” murano
was my reward for taking care of my health. I spin it and say “Flowers for Me!”
every time I take a step towards improving my physical health. Well, now I have
a second murano, my reward for asking for help with my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">mental</i> health. Every time I take a step towards improving my mental
health – to celebrate my efforts – I congratulate myself, give this murano a
spin, and say, “Flowers for Me!”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I have been doing so much work on my mental health in the
last two years that I haven’t really had time to write about it as often as I
would have liked. But I’m trying to change that. So stay tuned for more stories,
insights, strategies, and behavioural change.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqL-vPb6J9d_5XnPtyDt3GWhzNONDIE05zE5IIPugolWQ_-SDxoEisS4as_5-Yygfh95l5XKSlc7cCDjIAPBcV90y5xluRWfN0QTGirJjj86Qzc1puiLfMj7ft856coI2wZCt7Y8vEFtU/s1600/IMG_0510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqL-vPb6J9d_5XnPtyDt3GWhzNONDIE05zE5IIPugolWQ_-SDxoEisS4as_5-Yygfh95l5XKSlc7cCDjIAPBcV90y5xluRWfN0QTGirJjj86Qzc1puiLfMj7ft856coI2wZCt7Y8vEFtU/s400/IMG_0510.JPG" width="332" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So many charms, so many stories</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
<br />
A <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/01/how-to-follow-your-heart-this-new-year.html" target="_blank">post</a> where I first mention this idea of "living a life worth living," and the power of intention. We worked on this in "Working with Emotions" using a book based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.<br />
<br />
A <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/03/managing-emotions-means-learning-to-surf.html" target="_blank">post</a> about managing intense emotions by learning to "ride the wave."<br />
<br />
A <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/02/advice-from-fish-and-few-flowers.html" target="_blank">post</a> explaining that sometimes, when things get rough, you need to "just keep swimming" or "just float."<br />
<br />
A <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/11/will-he-always-love-me.html" target="_blank">post</a> about the origins of schema-focused therapy. A rather long post but my explanation of panic attacks.<br />
<br />
A <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/02/i-love-mii.html" target="_blank">post</a> about my first Mii bracelet with the stone of strength for exhaustion, depression and panic attacks.Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-34262916630156155292016-07-24T21:01:00.001-04:002016-11-09T21:24:22.572-05:00Forever Paris Contest: Pandora fans are not Grinches<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ldtiAfbLMLyhxVP-JruFsk5Ww4MmHZss-YBxgEkfdVCn-w_N3zD0jjX_aE9A0gt6-Ls8Ti72cOOBDavD7XwV8Hh1kCgiq4gCxIKHpKeNnqA0Kghuu-OJYLNQ0n4m-EmHQ7VB7sXeZc4/s1600/13533130_10154963244034867_8484684287068434493_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ldtiAfbLMLyhxVP-JruFsk5Ww4MmHZss-YBxgEkfdVCn-w_N3zD0jjX_aE9A0gt6-Ls8Ti72cOOBDavD7XwV8Hh1kCgiq4gCxIKHpKeNnqA0Kghuu-OJYLNQ0n4m-EmHQ7VB7sXeZc4/s200/13533130_10154963244034867_8484684287068434493_n.jpg" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="200" /></a><em>Pandora recently held a contest on Instagram to win a limited-edition gold Eiffel Tower charm. Fans were asked to, "Share a photo and write why you are a true Pandora fan." I submitted a photo and write-up on five of the six days that the contest ran. And one of my submissions won! This was my entry for June 24.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>For your information the contest details are at the end of the post.</em><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Pandora fans are not Grinches</h3>
<br />
"It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags." (Dr. Seuss' version)<br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvtaFTmx_1vXy9Bt5t60adFdeD6yV-Yegd77fQSXRukn6zrtKfmOHUQeZMNJx6L4hL2E4NdPbFY4gXX5jZXsGEv-0KAFKlYEwY3Qm9PSdZJq5T2wnQK6YWPtxDv0UoowjdtQLUWQZIAE/s1600/27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvtaFTmx_1vXy9Bt5t60adFdeD6yV-Yegd77fQSXRukn6zrtKfmOHUQeZMNJx6L4hL2E4NdPbFY4gXX5jZXsGEv-0KAFKlYEwY3Qm9PSdZJq5T2wnQK6YWPtxDv0UoowjdtQLUWQZIAE/s400/27.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
Clearly the Grinch was NOT talking about Pandora. And he was certainly NOT a true Pandora fan!</div>
<div>
<br />
"Pandora's not just about bracelets. It's not just about rings. It's not just about necklaces, charms or ear rings." (my version)<br />
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWuwjyaBfRDAznAS51U97DL3OkdPNxcNCtut_z6Y_RrR3TKc81bsqApeLf1mIvUVcaBVzDX8IbFxQCWR3lHMLPzYWUHPp4OUO8dqrqNBdzcqCgaAffkdc6PgyPqAtb8Y5moGfmyF2DEo/s1600/IMG_8830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWuwjyaBfRDAznAS51U97DL3OkdPNxcNCtut_z6Y_RrR3TKc81bsqApeLf1mIvUVcaBVzDX8IbFxQCWR3lHMLPzYWUHPp4OUO8dqrqNBdzcqCgaAffkdc6PgyPqAtb8Y5moGfmyF2DEo/s400/IMG_8830.JPG" width="326" /></a></div>
<br />
Pandora is about being part of a community of Pandora lovers. For over four years now, I have been part of a Pandora community on Facebook, and more recently on Instagram. We buy and sell charms from each other - new, preloved, retired, or hard-to-find. Sometimes we even swap. We help each other with promos or the latest gift with purchase. We send each other display boards, wrapping paper, gift bags, and display decorations.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCeDt_7XNmz127xyj0t-bnTWV7pleqVovVnbTt3edPhJcocRJY8I8n7FlRpOLcOqiQGqcTuVCjvXvyBdySHbrCKkPfQdELeb0WAmPDH0uwY6UXcB5QibnBCvkZVaC_zSoeMnDCE-4uPPo/s1600/IMG_5590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCeDt_7XNmz127xyj0t-bnTWV7pleqVovVnbTt3edPhJcocRJY8I8n7FlRpOLcOqiQGqcTuVCjvXvyBdySHbrCKkPfQdELeb0WAmPDH0uwY6UXcB5QibnBCvkZVaC_zSoeMnDCE-4uPPo/s320/IMG_5590.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small gift bags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeS0RYuZX34gmVkr4ZYuNQfGd0JTzp2hYI4Ro1Dg6_oLC6T2uAbMJEga56X3IKuQHtqIW0C31ZNrUDEz-VhyLODKLhWmx0Ikl_lRDVjAnYixUYO2w_UpjsQG4zqWI5OCTd47oG6rsOcnA/s1600/IMG_5829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeS0RYuZX34gmVkr4ZYuNQfGd0JTzp2hYI4Ro1Dg6_oLC6T2uAbMJEga56X3IKuQHtqIW0C31ZNrUDEz-VhyLODKLhWmx0Ikl_lRDVjAnYixUYO2w_UpjsQG4zqWI5OCTd47oG6rsOcnA/s320/IMG_5829.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Large gift bags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I try to do my part by sending ribbons, pouches or catalogues. I've helped ladies around the world buy Disney pieces that they don't have in their country, retired charms I've discovered in my city, or charms exclusive to Canada - usually taking advantage of the free bracelet promo. I'm in a group that swapped Christmas ornaments with friends around the world. I've been in a support group that grew out of a selling page. I've even been in a photography group with friends who met through Pandora. And I'm in a wonderful group that does Secret Santa, exchanges birthday gifts, and are there for me during the ups and downs of daily life.</div>
<br />
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHp9HzHStd2TvkL-qnXGx6fjQnUicv3fRCTPTaZlTqTZCmBWUVWa1Rqyy3l-RaxrV3yeikNcTGDSI_VUJm7vchBQij4lwrh4RJs8a8rLBpsJfkIn4O2BroS6ng0oMsI_LI8r5Glug97Xg/s1600/IMG_5075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHp9HzHStd2TvkL-qnXGx6fjQnUicv3fRCTPTaZlTqTZCmBWUVWa1Rqyy3l-RaxrV3yeikNcTGDSI_VUJm7vchBQij4lwrh4RJs8a8rLBpsJfkIn4O2BroS6ng0oMsI_LI8r5Glug97Xg/s320/IMG_5075.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink travel box (plus chocolates) from a friend in Australia<br />
Valentine's backboard from my local store</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We've shared photos of our charms and bracelets. We've admired each other's creations. And we've shared stories about the meanings of our charms. With the support of my Pandora friends during my recovery, and with their feedback on my stories, I even started a blog.<br />
<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJRiPiwOZVjJSj0exZ9NEs2pMIqQJ5CUKQJCWjU3HBDUQvEmM7D5Sk7x39gI3b9MAIUZvtsIxDN0PvLQGL9w2yjGgFxINvB9f02HtnnSd-nIhi4_TZqW7-B3oa5s9nBdvMY_F8snSTXQE/s1600/IMG_9752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJRiPiwOZVjJSj0exZ9NEs2pMIqQJ5CUKQJCWjU3HBDUQvEmM7D5Sk7x39gI3b9MAIUZvtsIxDN0PvLQGL9w2yjGgFxINvB9f02HtnnSd-nIhi4_TZqW7-B3oa5s9nBdvMY_F8snSTXQE/s400/IMG_9752.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VD - Valentine's Day<br />
Ch - Christmas<br />
MD - Mother's Day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Pandora fans are NOT Grinches. A true Pandora fan is kind and generous, is never jealous of someone else's collection, and is pleased to see the happiness that Pandora brings to the lives of her friends. I am a true Pandora fan.</div>
<div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
"We collect ribbons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We collect tags.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We collect packages,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
boxes and bags."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(inspired by Dr. Seuss)</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0eP-nyXbMjez1BDS4DS42GhnBvfLc8mU83AuHy9PoThfyRuAu4YR9l516NNtnOkxXsgEtuSVybKqIDpUahUkCVxz4jGo2YlSOB42YqZ3kekjozdsfmESUMX9A1xRHpmWeYU4iA3SDuE/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0eP-nyXbMjez1BDS4DS42GhnBvfLc8mU83AuHy9PoThfyRuAu4YR9l516NNtnOkxXsgEtuSVybKqIDpUahUkCVxz4jGo2YlSOB42YqZ3kekjozdsfmESUMX9A1xRHpmWeYU4iA3SDuE/s1600/untitled.png" /></a></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVT2J-TKF7IEN8-upV7kq-cyjiM7Vzb22YO0bb5ouXVVQj4MyvN1uUEz04nX9Cbqhd9_nJ7yQRinUWFtAdy6FyvK5B9HiPml6Uq-T5AmOvOmIURu8aX5WfFwh4Smd7m8e3QskQPsSJuI/s1600/IMG_9523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVT2J-TKF7IEN8-upV7kq-cyjiM7Vzb22YO0bb5ouXVVQj4MyvN1uUEz04nX9Cbqhd9_nJ7yQRinUWFtAdy6FyvK5B9HiPml6Uq-T5AmOvOmIURu8aX5WfFwh4Smd7m8e3QskQPsSJuI/s320/IMG_9523.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Forever Paris dangle on one of my favourite promo items, the "Love is Forever" music box.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm38NcOJ3IaVXaaQUbfCsaKiZJNPS-vgdw9PFX17vUGQ1Q0ps7Fb2rfCkcqO2NaYOwOb27YRg0oPo32K7woHgb3h9KhaV72GprO48usfPpKpAqycspydxqDFWOJRUOE6-xEpvwc8j_tXk/s1600/IMG_9525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm38NcOJ3IaVXaaQUbfCsaKiZJNPS-vgdw9PFX17vUGQ1Q0ps7Fb2rfCkcqO2NaYOwOb27YRg0oPo32K7woHgb3h9KhaV72GprO48usfPpKpAqycspydxqDFWOJRUOE6-xEpvwc8j_tXk/s320/IMG_9525.JPG" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only my second gold charm and it does glow!</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSoZiSE5QrnsazhRGUpy97A3DffNJIG7WyAGqBpeG4Na8D6cs6UhNVvcqq5PTyXuSLitpHtoODIT1uZHA-zn8QREpFMcj6LvJWLXjLWC7YcRtX-Acaz9ENvHFnNefEVVfVibIC2fc62U/s1600/IMG_9526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSoZiSE5QrnsazhRGUpy97A3DffNJIG7WyAGqBpeG4Na8D6cs6UhNVvcqq5PTyXuSLitpHtoODIT1uZHA-zn8QREpFMcj6LvJWLXjLWC7YcRtX-Acaz9ENvHFnNefEVVfVibIC2fc62U/s320/IMG_9526.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A surprising find: the four feet of the Eiffel Tower are hearts - little gold hearts in this case!<br />
How cute is that? Even my sales associate hadn't noticed this detail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-grieving-loss-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: grieving the loss of my mom</a> - the winning story and photo, now with more photos of my mom's trip to Paris and the surprise I discovered; my submission for June 21, 2016<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-using-pandora.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: using Pandora charms in my recovery</a> - a story about the role Pandora has played with links to stories about some of the charms; my submission for June 22, 2016<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-meaning-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: the meaning of Pandora's box</a> - a story about how Pandora has helped me and what it represents, now with photos of my Pandora's box charm and the bracelet it's on; my submission for June 23, 2016<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-ode-to-pandora.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Ode to Pandora</a> - a silly poem I wrote about Pandora, now with a photo for each stanza as well as a photo of my whole collection to date; my submission for June 26, 2016<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Here is Pandora's description of the contest:</strong><br />
<div>
<div>
<em>"To celebrate summer in the city of love, Pandora has created a limited-edition 'Forever Paris' dangle charm, and from June 20 - 26 you can win it in our #PandoraForeverParisContest. Each piece is beautifully crafted from 14K gold and features two diamonds.</em></div>
<div>
<em> </em></div>
<div>
<em>"Because they are true collector's items, only 500 have been produced. Each dangle charm is engraved with a unique number (from 1-500) and they are only sold in selected stores in France but we have kept 10 for you!" </em></div>
<div>
<em> </em></div>
<div>
Contest rules were available on Pandora.net.</div>
<div>
The charm was valued at 599 € (approximately $860 CDN/$665 USD)</div>
</div>
</div>
<br />Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-11331232792464126542016-07-24T20:48:00.001-04:002016-07-25T17:16:53.194-04:00Forever Paris Contest: the meaning of Pandora's box<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhieR5JrniZScW6S8h2cI0kgEItS5uCazD7UJoUVbDIB8YQ2jtFlkEYB6D-nytou7N2mqfM4Uu_07jmkp0LrVc1JSIjtjAJOkF42nzJhy3NLkHd3SCwUuu8tHtXl2Cn2FmirZAltpaI2mA/s1600/13494788_10154947710754867_248214606748423263_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhieR5JrniZScW6S8h2cI0kgEItS5uCazD7UJoUVbDIB8YQ2jtFlkEYB6D-nytou7N2mqfM4Uu_07jmkp0LrVc1JSIjtjAJOkF42nzJhy3NLkHd3SCwUuu8tHtXl2Cn2FmirZAltpaI2mA/s200/13494788_10154947710754867_248214606748423263_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><em>Pandora recently held a contest on Instagram to win a limited-edition gold Eiffel Tower charm. Fans were asked to, "Share a photo and write why you are a true Pandora fan." I submitted a photo and write-up on five of the six days that the contest ran. And one of my submissions won! This was my entry for June 23.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>For your information the contest details are at the end of the post.</em><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The meaning of Pandora's box</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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Although most of us are familiar with the expression of "opening Pandora's box" and it's meaning, that doing so may have far-reaching and dire consequences, or release ills upon the world, what most people forget is the most important part of the story of Pandora and her box: the gift of hope.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3uK83WBHXyHZlO2TIbkoxx1DT0WKCdVDNYtpIkfpn55fyjxQixt3UWnnshPGkkJEDtO5lY0TIqI8g9wlV-OMl8TXa9hxV5Bb96eU8oWQeVXq6-xlIis7rNk7q8vbIDDl1nVXcuVUH3s/s1600/IMG_8783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3uK83WBHXyHZlO2TIbkoxx1DT0WKCdVDNYtpIkfpn55fyjxQixt3UWnnshPGkkJEDtO5lY0TIqI8g9wlV-OMl8TXa9hxV5Bb96eU8oWQeVXq6-xlIis7rNk7q8vbIDDl1nVXcuVUH3s/s320/IMG_8783.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
In the ancient Greek myth about Prometheus and Pandora, Zeus orders a woman be made of clay. The gods then clothed her, adorned her with necklaces and finery (Pandora's jewellery), gave her beauty, gave her musical ability, and gave her speech. Because each of the Olympians had given her a gift, she was given the name Pandora, meaning "all gifted" or "all giving," and derived from a combination of Greek παν (pan) "all" and δωρον (doron) "gift". In my house, by the way, in my family, regardless of the occasion, all gift giving for me is Pandora. Just sayin'. In the story Zeus gives Pandora a box (a jar really) but tells her to never open it. Pandora could not understand why Zeus had given her a wedding gift but not allowed her to see it. She could not resist the temptation to peek into the box. I can totally relate to that, especially when it comes to Pandora gifts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9adFcUG_5Hfy8gE59p-mDtLxtyf6MgTI8sata0L4kryr901qo3PYMWHPrEwVXPX2zy_zfHeeKSH3p-KK2-4RcaySzt_8gw8iXVBkk-IsAIIDASj1uixPMRBuR8nmzAxVde8oMUKk6Tc/s1600/IMG_8759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9adFcUG_5Hfy8gE59p-mDtLxtyf6MgTI8sata0L4kryr901qo3PYMWHPrEwVXPX2zy_zfHeeKSH3p-KK2-4RcaySzt_8gw8iXVBkk-IsAIIDASj1uixPMRBuR8nmzAxVde8oMUKk6Tc/s400/IMG_8759.JPG" width="226" /></a></div>
As Pandora's mind was consumed with thoughts about what must be kept inside her box, my mind is often consumed with thoughts about sharing sneak peeks on Instagram. Just as Pandora could think of nothing else but opening the box and unlocking its secrets, there are times when I can think of nothing else but designing Pandora bracelets. Unlike the mythical Pandora, however, opening MY Pandora box brings me nothing but joy.<br />
<br />
Being overcome by temptation and curiosity, Pandora opened the box, as Zeus had expected she would. Out flew all the evils of the world: misery and poverty, death and disease, and sadness, sickness and strife. Pandora was able to close the box, but all that remained was Hope. When the world is full of pain and suffering, Hope makes all the difference in the world. And if you suffer from depression or anxiety, the one thing you need is Hope. That's why I'm a true Pandora fan.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5_4e-CO9oG4HMYaPKjCpz3O6UvUpRGenx6cPbuV9cPP8BoYI0DCYMu3wb_Hyt85nYmsbzHZ3AjxlCJ7BqZYw0BPrAdzzHGE_yRMaP9JM8Ete4ka2uXAupK9XMVWty6PN3O1PgH1EXq6k/s1600/zpage092.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5_4e-CO9oG4HMYaPKjCpz3O6UvUpRGenx6cPbuV9cPP8BoYI0DCYMu3wb_Hyt85nYmsbzHZ3AjxlCJ7BqZYw0BPrAdzzHGE_yRMaP9JM8Ete4ka2uXAupK9XMVWty6PN3O1PgH1EXq6k/s320/zpage092.gif" width="215" /></a>There were days when the only thing that would get me out of bed, and in the shower, was the promise of a trip to my favourite Pandora store. There were weeks when I could barely put one foot in front of the other, but Pandora had me looking forward to the next promo or gift with purchase. There were periods where I could not think beyond just getting through the day, and yet Pandora had me dreaming of one day getting retired charms from different countries. There were times when I was so overwhelmed I couldn't organize my thoughts enough to clean a room, but Pandora had me organizing an ever-evolving wishlist. There were times when I didn't know if I wanted to live until tomorrow, but Pandora had me believing I might still be alive come the end of August when the fall collection would be released. Pandora has given me so many things to look forward to.<br />
</div>
<div>
There is always Hope. In the Pandora myth, Hope is meant to heal the wounds of the body and soul, and Pandora has certainly done that for me. When my life was consumed with sadness, grief, shame, fear and anger, Pandora gave me the gift of hope. I am a true Pandora fan.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
P.S. Zeus actually sent Pandora as a punishment to men, and many a husband would tell you that their wife's obsession with Pandora jewellery plays the same role!<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizoUXSnOP0W2ohkOAczci-qggXE6qrJYmkI7b6RaL5xjOGijiXADDQlmGKENgAzBo8GUPQJMHwuHQuXgkjrW_a43Kbz-GmuR1egyBm_SEFpd6wWGmKheMddYvh-f7BBx3FUE8IDYXGqeo/s1600/IMG_9641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizoUXSnOP0W2ohkOAczci-qggXE6qrJYmkI7b6RaL5xjOGijiXADDQlmGKENgAzBo8GUPQJMHwuHQuXgkjrW_a43Kbz-GmuR1egyBm_SEFpd6wWGmKheMddYvh-f7BBx3FUE8IDYXGqeo/s400/IMG_9641.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pandora's Box charm on my "Serenity" bracelet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapWge2ePtlEcBj-itDPooHSIWSVWLNiyGHNpcwN_ybKRhbel6CIBSjfCowNNDRZ650_L6S4xOUgUu7yV1Q3fyv29Xo26BcipY5QRlLMqy0fg7V7Z-tF04ymzj7mFiNDdOH3-9GAmq7sQ/s1600/IMG_9652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapWge2ePtlEcBj-itDPooHSIWSVWLNiyGHNpcwN_ybKRhbel6CIBSjfCowNNDRZ650_L6S4xOUgUu7yV1Q3fyv29Xo26BcipY5QRlLMqy0fg7V7Z-tF04ymzj7mFiNDdOH3-9GAmq7sQ/s400/IMG_9652.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My updated two-tone "Serenity" bracelet with the chalcedony dangle, lavender cz and periwinkle star muranos.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2AEt5KhuaggoDvjLo211KV9wV5spey0MkgdSZknIz9sJTm9cCeftLcqroScihj_eeMDLioaQhT6Gl4KfOC-vdTyGVzLdrawNOudBXV7XmWKh-korLQ4lXE7tiUmPXgdTO3Mi1qwnRxg/s1600/IMG_9527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2AEt5KhuaggoDvjLo211KV9wV5spey0MkgdSZknIz9sJTm9cCeftLcqroScihj_eeMDLioaQhT6Gl4KfOC-vdTyGVzLdrawNOudBXV7XmWKh-korLQ4lXE7tiUmPXgdTO3Mi1qwnRxg/s320/IMG_9527.JPG" width="222" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9vTkEkpdquHIXWWk0Hjf4FhSTro7Bslo7tBx0sRARphyYjm6kGx2vAUTkNUBm3Zqsjux1rBdq1QSnnpuk2qPoHSUDNnfxPHIMJzbMaxT3Vuz2NFgLcJdxRFSy-lw5clkNUrHoOEUutJU/s1600/IMG_9528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9vTkEkpdquHIXWWk0Hjf4FhSTro7Bslo7tBx0sRARphyYjm6kGx2vAUTkNUBm3Zqsjux1rBdq1QSnnpuk2qPoHSUDNnfxPHIMJzbMaxT3Vuz2NFgLcJdxRFSy-lw5clkNUrHoOEUutJU/s320/IMG_9528.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVEvEk36wu1NPFiEgf-ESOTu8sHzyYBM2WWwelOK5NAAoZJI7S_hDmde04dFmUV8Qt3mT0BzZ8Wj84oL9VJ_Mwyb8LDHbyN_J9SOqEdL8o-_4MbdlWdCgGlwmU4tdK6AJaqP84YwDqUs/s1600/IMG_9529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVEvEk36wu1NPFiEgf-ESOTu8sHzyYBM2WWwelOK5NAAoZJI7S_hDmde04dFmUV8Qt3mT0BzZ8Wj84oL9VJ_Mwyb8LDHbyN_J9SOqEdL8o-_4MbdlWdCgGlwmU4tdK6AJaqP84YwDqUs/s320/IMG_9529.JPG" width="269" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-grieving-loss-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: grieving the loss of my mom</a> - the winning story and photo, now with more photos of my mom's trip to Paris and the surprise I discovered; my submission for June 21, 2016<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-using-pandora.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: using Pandora charms in my recovery</a> - a story about the role Pandora has played with links to stories about some of the charms; my submission for June 22, 2016<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-pandora-fans-are.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Pandora fans are not Grinches</a> - a story about collecting Pandora promo items and the community of Pandora collectors (with some Dr. Seuss inspired rhyming); my submission for June 24, 2016<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-ode-to-pandora.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Ode to Pandora</a> - a silly poem I wrote about Pandora, now with a photo for each stanza as well as a photo of my whole collection to date; my submission for June 26, 2016<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Here is Pandora's description of the contest:</strong><br />
<div>
<div>
<em>"To celebrate summer in the city of love, Pandora has created a limited-edition 'Forever Paris' dangle charm, and from June 20 - 26 you can win it in our #PandoraForeverParisContest. Each piece is beautifully crafted from 14K gold and features two diamonds.</em></div>
<div>
<em> </em></div>
<div>
<em>"Because they are true collector's items, only 500 have been produced. Each dangle charm is engraved with a unique number (from 1-500) and they are only sold in selected stores in France but we have kept 10 for you!" </em></div>
<div>
<em> </em></div>
<div>
Contest rules were available on Pandora.net.</div>
<div>
The charm was valued at 599 € (approximately $860 CDN/$665 USD)</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-69327418094910355962016-07-24T20:07:00.001-04:002016-07-24T21:52:07.839-04:00Forever Paris Contest: Ode to Pandora<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1rZ1mc10huSdnhMEkIyX9HO2okFWm3WQ7pMCxWrdLoW6ooEfI2DWYPeqy6K9a9t0_Az5Lxa8HxzRVlJMCVMzR8DIIziPjGwJ68QEz3vhUDfu5Bfl049d4-CNvD0xdWTiJTHzmzYyZgM/s1600/13533130_10154963244034867_8484684287068434493_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1rZ1mc10huSdnhMEkIyX9HO2okFWm3WQ7pMCxWrdLoW6ooEfI2DWYPeqy6K9a9t0_Az5Lxa8HxzRVlJMCVMzR8DIIziPjGwJ68QEz3vhUDfu5Bfl049d4-CNvD0xdWTiJTHzmzYyZgM/s200/13533130_10154963244034867_8484684287068434493_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><em>Pandora recently held a contest on Instagram to win a limited-edition gold Eiffel Tower charm. Fans were asked to, "Share a photo and write why you are a true Pandora fan." I submitted a photo and write-up on five of the six days that the contest ran. And one of my submissions won! This was my entry for June 26.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>For your information the contest details are at the end of the post.</em><br />
<br />
<h3 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ode to Pandora</h3>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2CLfSBIyx3TEpHqBPy_uV4OorZ2oltH5RtsrGwR2rmtjtOwx7livnwi0LbDfkuYIt9ty1lSaNPixISc2hXRLZ8eTxXqv0KKVZXWQLAe8mwcR1WdEJQVkyE4buq0f0o43mxxsnJDkjHDc/s1600/IMG_8821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2CLfSBIyx3TEpHqBPy_uV4OorZ2oltH5RtsrGwR2rmtjtOwx7livnwi0LbDfkuYIt9ty1lSaNPixISc2hXRLZ8eTxXqv0KKVZXWQLAe8mwcR1WdEJQVkyE4buq0f0o43mxxsnJDkjHDc/s400/IMG_8821.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I do love you Pandora,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You are always on my mind.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Where's the latest catalogue?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the nightstand you will find.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKUcDC4U_xnIecwQeHDsKapWKvQCOs6sNl60PqQ01RvGO8K62mEQMIYGdOnR7SCDsH89OeQgQjNRs-MdNs5zvVlrp_m-ceAFSKlx0GR6HdzPj8xhNvz32afiZEQT5SLQEPUvju-qNvX4/s1600/IMG_9470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKUcDC4U_xnIecwQeHDsKapWKvQCOs6sNl60PqQ01RvGO8K62mEQMIYGdOnR7SCDsH89OeQgQjNRs-MdNs5zvVlrp_m-ceAFSKlx0GR6HdzPj8xhNvz32afiZEQT5SLQEPUvju-qNvX4/s320/IMG_9470.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Every morning when I wake I think,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"What will I wear today?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My clothes should match my bracelets</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That is the only way!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vvSXkl5SLjhURlONA8Sor2qVHJ9A3aW-qFiDaGIR-ttWrJq1vP5oUC9Wo_YqPaeKckEE2yRVqYt5O0GRASstzMRzUuF4hKoArJ100g72RvU6fJw4fDtOuI71vhJH4PV4fHt4x5CmNxM/s1600/IMG_9472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vvSXkl5SLjhURlONA8Sor2qVHJ9A3aW-qFiDaGIR-ttWrJq1vP5oUC9Wo_YqPaeKckEE2yRVqYt5O0GRASstzMRzUuF4hKoArJ100g72RvU6fJw4fDtOuI71vhJH4PV4fHt4x5CmNxM/s320/IMG_9472.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have bracelets in every colour,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And a leather one to match.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There's always at least one bangle</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In amongst my daily stack.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1VNiZtAwPPKyuJb6y_Aa_V-Balt2A6Cd23kcwMfqulNBZJm2QXXNfVqvZkWPCYIE7S3meMVMuyNhzHHrfc-8oRHk16qP7CwSDQw7oVlDB7B0vlT1asBlzFGqa95lwnPQTnl9XzPMhhg/s1600/IMG_5557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1VNiZtAwPPKyuJb6y_Aa_V-Balt2A6Cd23kcwMfqulNBZJm2QXXNfVqvZkWPCYIE7S3meMVMuyNhzHHrfc-8oRHk16qP7CwSDQw7oVlDB7B0vlT1asBlzFGqa95lwnPQTnl9XzPMhhg/s320/IMG_5557.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I tie the cotton cords</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And wear them with special charms.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I feel that I am naked</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If there's nothing on my arms.</div>
<br />
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpLoF4iPUjOc9jzOWfqQO_IWGd8Mqa_i8HFjgvACub8Cq7HJSrY8QFzwJvxPR9PcKsHRy0yFmobXL-i5LhMwwriICYUa7FEgl1rF6dFTctIMCYugYXsVpvPF_AMz6AxJ-ckHkBCM5vXgk/s1600/IMG_9477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpLoF4iPUjOc9jzOWfqQO_IWGd8Mqa_i8HFjgvACub8Cq7HJSrY8QFzwJvxPR9PcKsHRy0yFmobXL-i5LhMwwriICYUa7FEgl1rF6dFTctIMCYugYXsVpvPF_AMz6AxJ-ckHkBCM5vXgk/s320/IMG_9477.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For when I need to know the time,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There's my bracelet with silver beads.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These novelty and animal charms</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tell daily lessons that I need.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijB0r1Z_QzFw5AAfTyPteazvHekIKZYNeYiKvrdaJ_bJnyRv8Lhe0LRPsXAEJGRaVHilH5bUu7CddrjxhnUNa87fqrmuSNTlLgmtNG0v6ndcIQqjvhOgNlD_YDlxOyF9WJJfWSX0H0L-Y/s1600/IMG_9284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijB0r1Z_QzFw5AAfTyPteazvHekIKZYNeYiKvrdaJ_bJnyRv8Lhe0LRPsXAEJGRaVHilH5bUu7CddrjxhnUNa87fqrmuSNTlLgmtNG0v6ndcIQqjvhOgNlD_YDlxOyF9WJJfWSX0H0L-Y/s320/IMG_9284.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
All of my Essence charms</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Are gifts that I receive.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My husband says, there's always hope</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And that helps me believe.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkM5avgwRnvPMfH2pzL3Y-ZRZ6Otco49tUrEwJatGrFmJ0fAqq2IC5UsJVupExkyMqkObEhefTQbtohopbdtGdVgA3BVj3o6pmaeOkwpXZ6Yf76xrcs-Ixs6oQEh87eT6qjPuKdpF-As/s1600/IMG_7188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkM5avgwRnvPMfH2pzL3Y-ZRZ6Otco49tUrEwJatGrFmJ0fAqq2IC5UsJVupExkyMqkObEhefTQbtohopbdtGdVgA3BVj3o6pmaeOkwpXZ6Yf76xrcs-Ixs6oQEh87eT6qjPuKdpF-As/s320/IMG_7188.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Curiosity, compassion, faith,"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He says, "I learned from you.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With happiness and trust,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Out of friendship our love grew."</div>
<br />
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6V-qL0HkvY3JZMde8xbCczAtFVY1DqUYhjiWvoqdyATRJ_7dia01aqqUtFAfidqiBDkwt-gsU5wN_CcRPHDE5Sfsy55QpAFojnwDIIQn0bSCRoWluLbjW36zzzNgpElxnSu57iuIH28/s1600/IMG_7400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6V-qL0HkvY3JZMde8xbCczAtFVY1DqUYhjiWvoqdyATRJ_7dia01aqqUtFAfidqiBDkwt-gsU5wN_CcRPHDE5Sfsy55QpAFojnwDIIQn0bSCRoWluLbjW36zzzNgpElxnSu57iuIH28/s320/IMG_7400.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Health, wellness, and energy,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A peace one that is blue,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These beads represent</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All the things I wish for you."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_f1ORRngFGZNAJ4NhylG9vaMutyFLiO8HEDIdAYCuXT2x_OxmUttHQ6jXXae8whR9XPFhQlO42qZnIUQnvkr2ewoXySWTyn6aTi7SCbSq7Rsli5UFAXKuV1XD0T-qb7g76it0Ad99FWQ/s1600/IMG_6144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_f1ORRngFGZNAJ4NhylG9vaMutyFLiO8HEDIdAYCuXT2x_OxmUttHQ6jXXae8whR9XPFhQlO42qZnIUQnvkr2ewoXySWTyn6aTi7SCbSq7Rsli5UFAXKuV1XD0T-qb7g76it0Ad99FWQ/s320/IMG_6144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My kids picked out two Essence,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To represent me as a mom.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The affection and dedication are</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
From my daughter and my son.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0LG8uNtJQ6pY8al8A-K-XXOoLDA9F2a3OaCD3Te9pt3DWYAnucliMqile13kbPsi169FHFZwA8lttCWnFhcUFn2BQUauiXCPwr4rhgY4ENdOC9yqFK1WbqwdhXKUADg3DHfNxavGSfA/s1600/IMG_2887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0LG8uNtJQ6pY8al8A-K-XXOoLDA9F2a3OaCD3Te9pt3DWYAnucliMqile13kbPsi169FHFZwA8lttCWnFhcUFn2BQUauiXCPwr4rhgY4ENdOC9yqFK1WbqwdhXKUADg3DHfNxavGSfA/s320/IMG_2887.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A few Essence are from friends,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the spiritual journey that I'm on.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To represent our friendships.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love them every one.</div>
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<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAdIKpPPz-nXLusaN2iWZMJQE1a4kNlMO6T3SHtCfCG3QGNmNyKMl7WNX4Gw6agu2fs4BHYG_IpQ5_0P68oWiQRv-BQNsJE0Z5Go41ROhuLY7awgAkefoXcNYIfgAXE7bHYj1O1ClvUE/s1600/IMG_3942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAdIKpPPz-nXLusaN2iWZMJQE1a4kNlMO6T3SHtCfCG3QGNmNyKMl7WNX4Gw6agu2fs4BHYG_IpQ5_0P68oWiQRv-BQNsJE0Z5Go41ROhuLY7awgAkefoXcNYIfgAXE7bHYj1O1ClvUE/s320/IMG_3942.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wear all my Essence daily</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They're always on my right.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They give me strength and help me</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carry on from morn' 'til night.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4n2ZdKOIA-9ns7m_yu66_HIk_5WsK2Ouuz5vXCyydpVEmX4efEx1LmgbEaBquwj8EYDO5z2FF0uhO_i1rtmdd7dTqFXUNz4R6eXKfJPHRM-u_1PN0dSfzOHcUVJOqMYeJOsNIGOclrMM/s1600/IMG_2934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4n2ZdKOIA-9ns7m_yu66_HIk_5WsK2Ouuz5vXCyydpVEmX4efEx1LmgbEaBquwj8EYDO5z2FF0uhO_i1rtmdd7dTqFXUNz4R6eXKfJPHRM-u_1PN0dSfzOHcUVJOqMYeJOsNIGOclrMM/s320/IMG_2934.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
There's resilience and wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And on my bracelets you can see,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What I admire about my children,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And what lessons they've taught me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxmB-rmSVcB8JeMpeCatEY1EMXtk8ESmS9aZyeE4sv2xDp6a04CpcPCcZ7UT3vw-rID7PgyLn-tt4rDun1WRdnLYIvEgFKHGFran0_cvuvQxq0ucQvvLEIbjhoV5YuzdoaavAlt9D6L4/s1600/IMG_7239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxmB-rmSVcB8JeMpeCatEY1EMXtk8ESmS9aZyeE4sv2xDp6a04CpcPCcZ7UT3vw-rID7PgyLn-tt4rDun1WRdnLYIvEgFKHGFran0_cvuvQxq0ucQvvLEIbjhoV5YuzdoaavAlt9D6L4/s320/IMG_7239.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For mindfulness and meditation,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pandora meets my needs,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When I say the affirmation</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've attached to every bead.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8qraa82yZn01LsEmVh9-om-1LRaMI9z5v8HYwlPqs37cCRObzbFccRrcKvz0sbJkwfKXzcmnKZGbUj6aQAvMYnX7N6Vdy5xxwCcM0KwjW9_lFhWPwRXbfPKX0l6l3BJ6O8R8U5pV0Mw/s1600/IMG_4100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8qraa82yZn01LsEmVh9-om-1LRaMI9z5v8HYwlPqs37cCRObzbFccRrcKvz0sbJkwfKXzcmnKZGbUj6aQAvMYnX7N6Vdy5xxwCcM0KwjW9_lFhWPwRXbfPKX0l6l3BJ6O8R8U5pV0Mw/s320/IMG_4100.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I even have Pandora</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Taped on my bedroom door!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The photos remind me</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of the ones I'm working for.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAEzzxDUH_66PNb59tg14BLjVTOcb5NgLIJNkNVZSjOd9ylWDdODQsRwBEDUvlClpK8mMWs7xZrKCenTx25YN4SD67rmugcyH0iWDXAQscijA7iYMlR6cadrJBJaGTPbgaYAu1Xf-Cyw/s1600/IMG_4344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAEzzxDUH_66PNb59tg14BLjVTOcb5NgLIJNkNVZSjOd9ylWDdODQsRwBEDUvlClpK8mMWs7xZrKCenTx25YN4SD67rmugcyH0iWDXAQscijA7iYMlR6cadrJBJaGTPbgaYAu1Xf-Cyw/s320/IMG_4344.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pandora is how I express myself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Each bracelet, a work of art.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Each charm represents a goal I've reached</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Right from the very start.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ1VNlZzLq-JsMwBecYHAZHk_OIQM2dg2Mq32iYTMCGhAMivZToiNpT8Z2nVRxcuveWokB4WuwPt10B5WjMLT0qtlrUIFBtVoa2yB9sSKZE_fwr4Vx0aqS_AluXj7eFzCT0AB7YK6Jjc/s1600/IMG_9080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ1VNlZzLq-JsMwBecYHAZHk_OIQM2dg2Mq32iYTMCGhAMivZToiNpT8Z2nVRxcuveWokB4WuwPt10B5WjMLT0qtlrUIFBtVoa2yB9sSKZE_fwr4Vx0aqS_AluXj7eFzCT0AB7YK6Jjc/s320/IMG_9080.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Pandora is my hobby,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In case you're wondering why,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All my photos are of bracelets,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A true Pandora fan am I.</div>
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<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCkDixUum3BVlZh5m3-Y3pYdjzgxvdWA0R2-6k2rx_XcQGTLwlmidTQ-w-onsHv0vW7z-elSLrKwLN_39Vu2VxPgoL4t0DTjk6YgtvffM8dPUfy1nh95rQCpEUyb5T-hxW884NQb-GDE/s1600/13439108_10154973270974867_3767628915311681915_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCkDixUum3BVlZh5m3-Y3pYdjzgxvdWA0R2-6k2rx_XcQGTLwlmidTQ-w-onsHv0vW7z-elSLrKwLN_39Vu2VxPgoL4t0DTjk6YgtvffM8dPUfy1nh95rQCpEUyb5T-hxW884NQb-GDE/s320/13439108_10154973270974867_3767628915311681915_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
My winning entry </h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbnZygHUBfRT0SsApFysCGGFAaW9Q8h69s3SmwbUMMN92M4LTRv4Qh1sB4ANibu1K6iPBYi06YGaK43LSmthp9dKTRW0HzKG5lmae5II6roeV0kDaPr-1VdBZuHvjntYFwbUjEGpo0SE/s1600/IMG_9542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbnZygHUBfRT0SsApFysCGGFAaW9Q8h69s3SmwbUMMN92M4LTRv4Qh1sB4ANibu1K6iPBYi06YGaK43LSmthp9dKTRW0HzKG5lmae5II6roeV0kDaPr-1VdBZuHvjntYFwbUjEGpo0SE/s320/IMG_9542.JPG" width="269" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The three dimensional details on this charm are fabulous.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-grieving-loss-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: grieving the loss of my mom</a> - the winning story and photo, now with more photos of my mom's trip to Paris and the surprise I discovered; my submission for June 21, 2016<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-using-pandora.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: using Pandora charms in my recovery</a> - a story about the role Pandora has played with links to stories about some of the charms; my submission for June 22, 2016<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-meaning-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: the meaning of Pandora's box</a> - a story about how Pandora has helped me and what it represents, now with photos of my Pandora's box charm and the bracelet it's on; my submission for June 23, 2016<br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-pandora-fans-are.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Pandora fans are not Grinches</a> - a story about collecting Pandora promo items and the community of Pandora collectors (with some Dr. Seuss inspired rhyming); my submission for June 24, 2016<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Here is Pandora's description of the contest:</strong><br />
<div>
<div>
<em>"To celebrate summer in the city of love, Pandora has created a limited-edition 'Forever Paris' dangle charm, and from June 20 - 26 you can win it in our #PandoraForeverParisContest. Each piece is beautifully crafted from 14K gold and features two diamonds.</em></div>
<div>
<em> </em></div>
<div>
<em>"Because they are true collector's items, only 500 have been produced. Each dangle charm is engraved with a unique number (from 1-500) and they are only sold in selected stores in France but we have kept 10 for you!" </em></div>
<div>
<em> </em></div>
<div>
Contest rules were available on Pandora.net.</div>
<div>
The charm was valued at 599 € (approximately $860 CDN/$665 USD)</div>
</div>
Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-54748881979944525452016-07-24T19:53:00.000-04:002016-07-24T21:52:45.111-04:00Forever Paris Contest: using Pandora charms in my recovery<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6ezCK8XF208ZQLTBVmKhq8YY2vzyKXT_eAAAwlxFICmFLsib835emXb3mekEc6zeO_lAv3u8vSJ0ljhXKNKeK5m5hNvTGNwEYcGZgOc8cDxWviSXQDylp1o2z07hhLEXNcAKEF5vq3c/s1600/13494788_10154947710754867_248214606748423263_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6ezCK8XF208ZQLTBVmKhq8YY2vzyKXT_eAAAwlxFICmFLsib835emXb3mekEc6zeO_lAv3u8vSJ0ljhXKNKeK5m5hNvTGNwEYcGZgOc8cDxWviSXQDylp1o2z07hhLEXNcAKEF5vq3c/s200/13494788_10154947710754867_248214606748423263_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><em>Pandora recently held a contest on Instagram to win a limited-edition gold Eiffel Tower charm. Fans were asked to, "Share a photo and write why you are a true Pandora fan." I submitted a photo and write-up on five of the six days that the contest ran. And one of my submissions won! This was my entry for June 22.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>For your information the contest details are at the end of the post.</em><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Using Pandora charms in my recovery</h4>
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One of the unique things that I have done, as a true Pandora fan, is using charms as rewards in my recovery from an eating disorder and depression.<br />
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[Click on the links to read the full story for each of the charms highlighted]<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7kZZwF4mHieqd2NBToEH2ppCpSfIfZ1F_G7Pzp-lE2Jh955Ny83ITfL3ivW3Yu7KDncogx6tfMqmy09gM3nY7zqWdS6jKmLBgn4doZ_WQYWVJJZ2dDOIzX4s4rlPR4vf10q00bru1k5Y/s1600/IMG_7025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7kZZwF4mHieqd2NBToEH2ppCpSfIfZ1F_G7Pzp-lE2Jh955Ny83ITfL3ivW3Yu7KDncogx6tfMqmy09gM3nY7zqWdS6jKmLBgn4doZ_WQYWVJJZ2dDOIzX4s4rlPR4vf10q00bru1k5Y/s320/IMG_7025.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sea star and ocean waves charms on my Gift from the Sea bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When my Pandora journey began in 2011, it started with the goal of being "symptom-free" i.e. no bingeing, purging or restricting. I used cheap knock-off <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/i-have-battled-eating-disorder-and.html" target="_blank">charms</a>: one a day for a week, and then one a week for a month. Finally, after one month symptom-free, I bought a bracelet and my first authentic Pandora charm: the "<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/03/managing-emotions-means-learning-to-surf.html" target="_blank">ocean waves</a>." It represents my learning that it's ok to "Feel the feelings and ride the wave of emotions." The "<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/05/oh-things-we-can-learn-from-starfish.html" target="_blank">sea star</a>" charm encourages me to "Be like the star of the sea: strong, flexible and resilient." To mark my sixth month of recovery I had the <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/the-lucerne-healing-flower.html" target="_blank">Lucerne</a> dangle engraved with "Healthy" and "Happy" to remind me that "I deserve to be healthy and happy."<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6Ye9jz4Fa6-wPlb6GrOCFKcamHEz_5HuMtdPIDgBaofmwHaABSfYa-CKz3tCpMZZ7SFry-kPbbGzTWI5-6V-wCAmjMRnr5UYwmz3WAgk5hNgNzyV441bSWuUElMUktMMBSVVDmNpTcA/s1600/blogger-image--1908361767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6Ye9jz4Fa6-wPlb6GrOCFKcamHEz_5HuMtdPIDgBaofmwHaABSfYa-CKz3tCpMZZ7SFry-kPbbGzTWI5-6V-wCAmjMRnr5UYwmz3WAgk5hNgNzyV441bSWuUElMUktMMBSVVDmNpTcA/s320/blogger-image--1908361767.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The engraved Lucerne dangle on my Lucerne Recovery bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Each charm that I earned represented something that kept me going and helped me stay symptom-free: an action, attitude or affirmation. These are just a few examples, from my menagerie:<br />
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"Sloooow down." (<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/08/advice-on-managing-anxiety-from-turtle.html" target="_blank">turtle</a>)<br />
<div>
"Honour the hungry hungry hippo."</div>
<div>
"Just keep swimming." (<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/02/advice-from-fish-and-few-flowers.html" target="_blank">fish</a>)</div>
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"Be gentle and patient with yourself." (cow)</div>
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"Stop should-ing all over yourself." (<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/05/an-essential-feel-better-lesson-from.html" target="_blank">scarab</a> aka dung beetle)</div>
<div>
"If you love your dog you walk it; if you love your body you move it." (dog)</div>
<div>
"Stop catastrophizing." (Chicken Little)</div>
<div>
"Use healthy assertive communication." (sideways fish) </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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPmVnr5av43tB9ijBoTLlgdDEgm0BDyBRlzxBc6UCMon7OeGZeL5OsGM4TupzQDVuUuUO2AYpaXVgQdfkmDZgz9cSABXde1sMeiEQkqXWtNxUJn5vB97-r_Di8bfdiiRDbxNzWBp7Mpo/s1600/IMG_8679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPmVnr5av43tB9ijBoTLlgdDEgm0BDyBRlzxBc6UCMon7OeGZeL5OsGM4TupzQDVuUuUO2AYpaXVgQdfkmDZgz9cSABXde1sMeiEQkqXWtNxUJn5vB97-r_Di8bfdiiRDbxNzWBp7Mpo/s400/IMG_8679.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The photo for my submission</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I also worked on "behaviour activation." Pandora charms were used as rewards for specific changes in behaviour, all essential in my recovery: making myself a healthy lunch every day ("picnic basket"), going for a daily meditative walk ("<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/05/walk-this-way-in-moment.html" target="_blank">wildflower walk</a>"), doing a Gratitude Journal every night ("<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/10/this-thanksgiving-develop-attitude-of.html" target="_blank">treasure chest</a>"), to name a few.</div>
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</div>
<div>
I've now been in recovery for over four years. As I continue to learn and practice and work on my mental health, I continue to add Pandora charms to my collection to represent lessons learned and accomplishments achieved.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxNRQSzT3QrKKrhhYJr45-FTU_HGXJXwZeHhxq1kaJ_YBfOp0QnzQWbCHvZ1W3MdrseWZ6kOI6hmmRccYcl1AAn2iZMvA-3EuU4PYcobP91dqDevUizPv_9z_gdAEzFxXHXEPIbCXVNg/s1600/IMG_9534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxNRQSzT3QrKKrhhYJr45-FTU_HGXJXwZeHhxq1kaJ_YBfOp0QnzQWbCHvZ1W3MdrseWZ6kOI6hmmRccYcl1AAn2iZMvA-3EuU4PYcobP91dqDevUizPv_9z_gdAEzFxXHXEPIbCXVNg/s320/IMG_9534.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My limited-edition Forever Paris #220 out of 500</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01x-nsBgYM9-k3GwbnwQMXbaowyBITn-ik-s_XuBlJlZFPXfVRo8jnzlNGMINbBlvuFXo_LOi-NNuSYtUVav14avX7IHNuyf06Xl4ICg2A2N33UCClzmr6nsDV8BtNBxUVD35Ud3OsvM/s1600/IMG_9744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01x-nsBgYM9-k3GwbnwQMXbaowyBITn-ik-s_XuBlJlZFPXfVRo8jnzlNGMINbBlvuFXo_LOi-NNuSYtUVav14avX7IHNuyf06Xl4ICg2A2N33UCClzmr6nsDV8BtNBxUVD35Ud3OsvM/s320/IMG_9744.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The diamond is probably my favourite thing about the charm; the sparkle really adds to its beauty.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>Related Posts:</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-grieving-loss-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: grieving the loss of my mom</a> - the winning story and photo, now with more photos of my mom's trip to Paris and the surprise I discovered; my submission for June 21, 2015</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-meaning-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: the meaning of Pandora's box</a> - a story about how Pandora has helped me and what it represents, now with photos of my Pandora's box charm and the bracelet it's on; my submission for June 23, 2016</div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-pandora-fans-are.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Pandora fans are not Grinches</a> - a story about collecting Pandora promo items and the community of Pandora collectors (with some Dr. Seuss inspired rhyming); my submission for June 24, 2016</div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-ode-to-pandora.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Ode to Pandora</a> - a silly poem I wrote about Pandora, now with a photo for each stanza as well as a photo of my whole collection to date; my submission for June 26, 2016</div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/07/i-have-battled-eating-disorder-and.html" target="_blank">My Pandora journey of recovery - how it all began</a></div>
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</div>
<strong>Here is Pandora's description of the contest:</strong><br />
<div>
<div>
<em>"To celebrate summer in the city of love, Pandora has created a limited-edition 'Forever Paris' dangle charm, and from June 20 - 26 you can win it in our #PandoraForeverParisContest. Each piece is beautifully crafted from 14K gold and features two diamonds.</em></div>
<div>
<em> </em></div>
<div>
<em>"Because they are true collector's items, only 500 have been produced. Each dangle charm is engraved with a unique number (from 1-500) and they are only sold in selected stores in France but we have kept 10 for you!" </em></div>
<div>
<em> </em></div>
<div>
Contest rules were available on Pandora.net.</div>
<div>
The charm was valued at 599 € (approximately $860 CDN/$665 USD)</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3634315198044362881.post-11702260752960202482016-07-24T18:42:00.000-04:002016-07-25T16:50:19.202-04:00Forever Paris Contest: grieving the loss of my mom<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmh74N-tjatbsZIKcR698rY_yI6fyOjjBDtBJneZ0J_fWdP83e2R32EU9qee2KgIBhkved4yaEaF8BZOkbrIKP9rpGVVpDXmZx__kCcmf5jVFhc9AOAd9tXMpMb9pCBKwcZGX-2CNxLw/s1600/IMG_9459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmh74N-tjatbsZIKcR698rY_yI6fyOjjBDtBJneZ0J_fWdP83e2R32EU9qee2KgIBhkved4yaEaF8BZOkbrIKP9rpGVVpDXmZx__kCcmf5jVFhc9AOAd9tXMpMb9pCBKwcZGX-2CNxLw/s320/IMG_9459.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my prize! The Forever Paris charm came in a Limited Edition box.<br />
The leather sleeve contains the certificate of authenticity.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<em>Pandora recently held a contest on Instagram to win a limited-edition gold Eiffel Tower charm. Fans were asked to, "Share a photo and write why you are a true Pandora fan." I submitted a photo and write-up on five of the six days that the contest ran. This was my first submission, on June 21, and the story and photo that won!</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>For your information the contest details are at the end of the post.</em><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Grieving the Loss of My Mom</strong></div>
</div>
<div>
One of the ways that I am a true Pandora fan is that I have used Pandora in ways that are different than most Pandora collectors, and written stories about them. One of the unique things I've done is to use Pandora to grieve the death of my mother - and to celebrate her life.<br />
<br />
This bracelet I call "My Unforgettable Mom - her life in charms." The process of writing stories about these Pandora charms has become part of the process of grieving - looking through her old photo albums, reading her letters and journals, and writing blog posts around the story of her life. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfxwRf6TK1LAoyNw9B_oJcdOrp3EZqC9tQhR2HsUb5G2ZpsksbZmPAn2ADtxaS1ULwoQW53VuxxmFpjhSGcHDfO4U7t9PDkSfNfw3NFvVnevz0xeey3JNfVDBxP9hffnG5RnsWYCVE6z8/s1600/IMG_8629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfxwRf6TK1LAoyNw9B_oJcdOrp3EZqC9tQhR2HsUb5G2ZpsksbZmPAn2ADtxaS1ULwoQW53VuxxmFpjhSGcHDfO4U7t9PDkSfNfw3NFvVnevz0xeey3JNfVDBxP9hffnG5RnsWYCVE6z8/s400/IMG_8629.JPG" width="328" /></a></div>
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</div>
<div>
This photo [above] was taken in 1952 on my mother's first trip to Europe. She brought home a charm bracelet for her younger sister with a charm from each place she visited: on <em>this</em> trip, Switzerland [cow bell], England [Marble Arch], France [Eiffel Tower], Italy [gondola from Venice], Holland [wooden shoe] and Scotland [highland dancer]. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0AKIMYjMn6_Dm8HicILmnTbEX2Lwra3SvckkDID_CuiWb-4y8T-OaoimXBsads4qxqbpbjBjC5kbQo06uujJ098EDepWjJM4iVvO29-mX2FKtRzsRpUodIOQwBaQikANdIhuDNBU53E/s1600/IMG_9424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0AKIMYjMn6_Dm8HicILmnTbEX2Lwra3SvckkDID_CuiWb-4y8T-OaoimXBsads4qxqbpbjBjC5kbQo06uujJ098EDepWjJM4iVvO29-mX2FKtRzsRpUodIOQwBaQikANdIhuDNBU53E/s400/IMG_9424.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Australia added by Aunt Edna after she lived Down Under and married an Australian</td></tr>
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I would love to retrace her steps and do a Pandora travel bracelet, including the Eiffel Tower. But in the meantime I have this ["My Unforgettable Mom"] bracelet in her memory.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZu8jfKMp7PE3g7Dx7LtbkXpjBhJE8nHG9SnqZmocriGAVrSwZB7t3mVgVziMPD53kfKRejw-s0rSg53Ynm5eq2oSwpE6XEXfJxLSkTJiNoAl37j2aXsHbuROd1XPTFhepiN9hGioFllU/s1600/IMG_9846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZu8jfKMp7PE3g7Dx7LtbkXpjBhJE8nHG9SnqZmocriGAVrSwZB7t3mVgVziMPD53kfKRejw-s0rSg53Ynm5eq2oSwpE6XEXfJxLSkTJiNoAl37j2aXsHbuROd1XPTFhepiN9hGioFllU/s400/IMG_9846.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Each charm has a special meaning. From her early years in the 1920's and her childhood nickname <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/06/an-unfortunate-nickname-for.html" target="_blank">Fishy</a>, to playing <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2015/09/surprise-mothers-can-be-athletes-too.html" target="_blank">basketball</a> in university and earning three degrees. From her work as a research scientist to her trips to Europe in the 1950's and 60's. From visiting art galleries and becoming an accomplished artist herself, to getting married and raising a family. From becoming a teacher, and then a literacy tutor, to losing her sight and becoming blind. For <a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2014/06/speaking-up-when-it-would-be-easier-to.html" target="_blank">standing</a> up for what she believed in, including access for the disabled, to travelling the world, despite being blind. From a trip to Greece with me, to becoming a grandmother of three. And finally, from losing track of time to a battle with Alzheimer's which took her life eight years ago. The "amazing" charm, simply because she was not only an amazing mom but an amazing person.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7A0ZFrCkudSp9mrU3x0NzzDi6ZIx7bRayHRlAsBJSipMApVkPW8ehtnQAdSxiW1t3HDoJMzNDtCMlPyY6PZ8fSU-r35GPjC5NyHtG92qkdYrTPXSKZFPNQdRaC-H0-DnNaa0v-nz7jY/s1600/mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7A0ZFrCkudSp9mrU3x0NzzDi6ZIx7bRayHRlAsBJSipMApVkPW8ehtnQAdSxiW1t3HDoJMzNDtCMlPyY6PZ8fSU-r35GPjC5NyHtG92qkdYrTPXSKZFPNQdRaC-H0-DnNaa0v-nz7jY/s320/mom.jpg" width="222" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Mom shortly before she retired from teaching.<br />
Verna Georgie (Leonard) Holmes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ttshaW3321eHnrCm13ZA2FFJeaHZHEvw1rlOnrZGsejO_KkNZ1ZH6EtHz4if1hFWnshxk3Ypp1NqI2wnkpzEjISYY25sxFAZRsjjK05Of9L7BgM8ea9irD-6TMyQ1OqFOqf79Uscg7I/s1600/IMG_9556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ttshaW3321eHnrCm13ZA2FFJeaHZHEvw1rlOnrZGsejO_KkNZ1ZH6EtHz4if1hFWnshxk3Ypp1NqI2wnkpzEjISYY25sxFAZRsjjK05Of9L7BgM8ea9irD-6TMyQ1OqFOqf79Uscg7I/s320/IMG_9556.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the Left: Verna (my Mom age 25), Barb, Jan and Joan<br />
I was so shocked when I enlarged this photo.<br />
Can you see what surprised me?!!<br />
*(If you can't guess I will tell you at the bottom of the post)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXns3qO4zK8BAJs_Ye8ykEBV8FVXNjnLdgMaWmlfLDdF4fd834v6tQS4d4HPEog-Cv4KiKo5ERTJDN7Si58ft4oWxYbn1KlVuFo7d7sdpP9e8-P0CQF2AP2tOAXdpJKG8jf_xHgYnw8xk/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXns3qO4zK8BAJs_Ye8ykEBV8FVXNjnLdgMaWmlfLDdF4fd834v6tQS4d4HPEog-Cv4KiKo5ERTJDN7Si58ft4oWxYbn1KlVuFo7d7sdpP9e8-P0CQF2AP2tOAXdpJKG8jf_xHgYnw8xk/s400/2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris June 10-14 (1952)<br />
Barb on Champs Elysees; Garden in Reid Hall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_nbAx2ecKOI3VH4m62gp3C53D2jrjvG4aOJsvhm4zPvxRKCrTpV1aLVpOUuxW1tdkfQrwVBQBnBVzU7HglMkx2HwSRlcH0qqrBMwhWe6ADNbWACCslJwxGR_MMTTmdFRBSHx6wcnrhU/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_nbAx2ecKOI3VH4m62gp3C53D2jrjvG4aOJsvhm4zPvxRKCrTpV1aLVpOUuxW1tdkfQrwVBQBnBVzU7HglMkx2HwSRlcH0qqrBMwhWe6ADNbWACCslJwxGR_MMTTmdFRBSHx6wcnrhU/s400/1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the steps of the Madeline</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzlmvTupyLUk9H4ToXpPMU54M-kwkEG4rF02GKOJew8avLNNyctdFqZSb9vuc_2W30OVhVAexaDOyOKVIF_bBEGFlcaLnq7su5o4Uqhnp-Qtu5X_EWL-kPJ9BFyMMv2tYFIjGJH8ws9k/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzlmvTupyLUk9H4ToXpPMU54M-kwkEG4rF02GKOJew8avLNNyctdFqZSb9vuc_2W30OVhVAexaDOyOKVIF_bBEGFlcaLnq7su5o4Uqhnp-Qtu5X_EWL-kPJ9BFyMMv2tYFIjGJH8ws9k/s400/3.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jan, Barb, and Joan at Versailles; Garden at Versailles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijV-gSl3JgN8KgIyLssHGbbzAiBeNt5yuEPdbu7nj6tCsFSFuyPHM699_izHgu4MEA2Omrwkbir07oaU0m_wzGRMbXw65FuVTID9_RwGFzN7m5JSq-EHdLG1fGAs3cs6VYwutAvGFiLmo/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijV-gSl3JgN8KgIyLssHGbbzAiBeNt5yuEPdbu7nj6tCsFSFuyPHM699_izHgu4MEA2Omrwkbir07oaU0m_wzGRMbXw65FuVTID9_RwGFzN7m5JSq-EHdLG1fGAs3cs6VYwutAvGFiLmo/s400/4.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barb (left) and Verna (right) Palace of Versailles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYORoYRhyNjHHXPh_AXJ1oyQlePSARaRUUSE9nUJLpFuBAjclj4VrLLgZGNv0bfNOXmuDmaPaTNnrWcV-l-BaD2pL4rkxn3dW_KJnjcOsCWkcb0mBHp9Y_v9H2SMBf6A0OzDGzLCN0wfo/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYORoYRhyNjHHXPh_AXJ1oyQlePSARaRUUSE9nUJLpFuBAjclj4VrLLgZGNv0bfNOXmuDmaPaTNnrWcV-l-BaD2pL4rkxn3dW_KJnjcOsCWkcb0mBHp9Y_v9H2SMBf6A0OzDGzLCN0wfo/s400/5.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jan and Arc du Carrousel; Verna in Touleries Garden</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3g-COdA8RyxIcXHmj1x1PX4ZjqAeFmXrjwadjwuHV3Zj7qBPpsLnYaThu_KOBIlpXBcOi6ZHXW5sf3op84YjJ7OcuRkUcTTNS2-Ag36Plv3oeCC7_170HIflN563wvvz5NtjdbwxXQM/s1600/6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3g-COdA8RyxIcXHmj1x1PX4ZjqAeFmXrjwadjwuHV3Zj7qBPpsLnYaThu_KOBIlpXBcOi6ZHXW5sf3op84YjJ7OcuRkUcTTNS2-Ag36Plv3oeCC7_170HIflN563wvvz5NtjdbwxXQM/s400/6.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barb, Roz Shaffer and Jan; Roz, Verna and Jan<br />
Roz's house in Malmaison</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZeZ8EA4Zc_PQE0rLJ-MxDzGSgLhuhKREeIfRCppsZYWObmtxRNEij2V_qCkxhOQnw-eo3i05jPhj_ZIfUNcKn7pLTVk0RtcGlG-r-K359VWKbjNgfYw3flFzgHsBCbUVSae6V5XvxVr8/s1600/7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZeZ8EA4Zc_PQE0rLJ-MxDzGSgLhuhKREeIfRCppsZYWObmtxRNEij2V_qCkxhOQnw-eo3i05jPhj_ZIfUNcKn7pLTVk0RtcGlG-r-K359VWKbjNgfYw3flFzgHsBCbUVSae6V5XvxVr8/s400/7.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Touleries Garden; Getting directions to Malmaison (Pam-Pam Champs Elysees)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwGgSLH6i0FTnCWwBYpYNhtH43hnbY2lk9eV1-AKqno3IMKrTKp5_2LEgdVoZSPrisgz2YFWS4u7L7RPsP0AvQRTvU7CaLt61jmMpBMXO5ffHOvfu4EuZvQ_zxl9eQs2p-Ax6HczlOFHE/s1600/8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwGgSLH6i0FTnCWwBYpYNhtH43hnbY2lk9eV1-AKqno3IMKrTKp5_2LEgdVoZSPrisgz2YFWS4u7L7RPsP0AvQRTvU7CaLt61jmMpBMXO5ffHOvfu4EuZvQ_zxl9eQs2p-Ax6HczlOFHE/s400/8.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Champs Elysees from Touleries Garden to Arc d' Triomphe; Eiffel Tower</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjqMm6jnqnV4p69l75NtzUsULXh33_uLo7vhu42pxWGrS_zeULq4cVMz0lSnQnKw9v26Ta1-BFqREyPgOg07Ul-gI8htz8le4B1jSbkGzFMWOEYGxkHALFHakvNcsdxIZiCfFCxaMVBs/s1600/9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjqMm6jnqnV4p69l75NtzUsULXh33_uLo7vhu42pxWGrS_zeULq4cVMz0lSnQnKw9v26Ta1-BFqREyPgOg07Ul-gI8htz8le4B1jSbkGzFMWOEYGxkHALFHakvNcsdxIZiCfFCxaMVBs/s400/9.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bank of the Seine near Eiffel Tower; Joan, Verna and Jan</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5zhEB9CbOmcabSc75sOrv8tcif_xaN5BE8hkL2gGnMP7GpMvU3Xg-u_mL89pJ7-xA8xxmB7lmhgH8Ax1C-1jElOW-2JdlmvY_GQ4-w_CUjw_OzT-z7-vuUnBTytD1tgN8KaXyhtjqX0/s1600/10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5zhEB9CbOmcabSc75sOrv8tcif_xaN5BE8hkL2gGnMP7GpMvU3Xg-u_mL89pJ7-xA8xxmB7lmhgH8Ax1C-1jElOW-2JdlmvY_GQ4-w_CUjw_OzT-z7-vuUnBTytD1tgN8KaXyhtjqX0/s400/10.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute to Eiffel Tower (Shopping Girls?); Under Eiffel Tower</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKL5l1di87T1DEgG4uJFsmtwwRflhkDoAcLO11G5YTim8ZNnLmWVf-AkIHi8JbFDhbhgvN_r-G_JqTltLVGJTblPycs3sEeo67zWl_35547qoIX4jmTKqsPQmYETkSYby1kgikGSZFqQ/s1600/11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKL5l1di87T1DEgG4uJFsmtwwRflhkDoAcLO11G5YTim8ZNnLmWVf-AkIHi8JbFDhbhgvN_r-G_JqTltLVGJTblPycs3sEeo67zWl_35547qoIX4jmTKqsPQmYETkSYby1kgikGSZFqQ/s400/11.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Café on Eiffel Tower; Verna, Joan and Barb Paris Station</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNG7GgdMdT2kbPykEv9xBsUlBDml_e1PDi9h7RAj-Pce8Hq-YHIGzji_yxPItP2A9zWSO5XmIaITkjA2mX9lLqrwKtDXgOggSZuV8gXcqKxekxe9dyZoBq5qXlIjDVsaXDihinLjUTWwQ/s1600/12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNG7GgdMdT2kbPykEv9xBsUlBDml_e1PDi9h7RAj-Pce8Hq-YHIGzji_yxPItP2A9zWSO5XmIaITkjA2mX9lLqrwKtDXgOggSZuV8gXcqKxekxe9dyZoBq5qXlIjDVsaXDihinLjUTWwQ/s400/12.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joan and Jan; From top of Eiffel Tower Trocodero - United Nations Building</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQW8fL7z1PAccIcFSS8pN33mYTFcL_bbx5bs5tpQsfGNAkECYfgVkq7353rfWSU-N5RKqDzMOrs6jpPrBSvtelkArvyQJujg5A3ZfSdNbf_tFoPNCgkPiS9zOqDdv4EMI7CQyM6bK9lA/s1600/13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQW8fL7z1PAccIcFSS8pN33mYTFcL_bbx5bs5tpQsfGNAkECYfgVkq7353rfWSU-N5RKqDzMOrs6jpPrBSvtelkArvyQJujg5A3ZfSdNbf_tFoPNCgkPiS9zOqDdv4EMI7CQyM6bK9lA/s400/13.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the top of the Eiffel Tower<br />
Arc d'Triumphe in Centre; River Seine</td></tr>
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<em></em><br />
<em>*Can you see what surprised me?!!</em><br />
The girls all have cigarettes in their hands! I suppose everybody smoked in those days, and they didn't yet know the dangers of smoking, but still it was my MOM! I've never seen her smoke. She smoked until she was pregnant with me and then it made her too nauseous so she quit. My mom taught at a community college and I remember her having a "black lung" specimen in her lab to show her students the effects of smoking. Later in life she would tell people she was allergic to cigarette smoke so they wouldn't smoke at meetings! And there she is, plain as day, smoking on the Eiffel Tower!<br />
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<strong>Related Posts:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-using-pandora.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: using Pandora charms in my recovery</a> - a story about the role Pandora has played with links to stories about some of the charms; my submission for June 22, 2016<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-meaning-of.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: the meaning of Pandora's box</a> - a story about how Pandora has helped me and what it represents, now with photos of my Pandora's box charm and the bracelet it's on; my submission for June 23, 2016<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-pandora-fans-are.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Pandora fans are not Grinches</a> - a story about collecting Pandora promo items and the community of Pandora collectors (with some Dr. Seuss inspired rhyming); my submission for June 24, 2016<br />
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<a href="http://afewcharms.blogspot.ca/2016/07/forever-paris-contest-ode-to-pandora.html" target="_blank">Forever Paris Contest: Ode to Pandora</a> - a silly poem I wrote about Pandora, now with a photo for each stanza as well as a photo of my whole collection to date; my submission for June 26, 2016<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxxvTX8wIch6XRh4J4bwAeovj5woGukFG6ptPDGpOufoJa1QuHOKNS1-71V7NOzthnmABm08ndKNmBGr3Lg05vdONXgAyEJYj-myIJTIKukGDwHT45sYwPrn7_3vNDjCr9NHoZ3LQ-ic/s1600/IMG_9431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxxvTX8wIch6XRh4J4bwAeovj5woGukFG6ptPDGpOufoJa1QuHOKNS1-71V7NOzthnmABm08ndKNmBGr3Lg05vdONXgAyEJYj-myIJTIKukGDwHT45sYwPrn7_3vNDjCr9NHoZ3LQ-ic/s320/IMG_9431.JPG" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new Eiffel Tower next to the old photo my mom took over 60 years ago.</td></tr>
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<strong>Here is Pandora's description of the contest:</strong><br />
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<em>"To celebrate summer in the city of love, Pandora has created a limited-edition 'Forever Paris' dangle charm, and from June 20 - 26 you can win it in our #PandoraForeverParisContest. Each piece is beautifully crafted from 14K gold and features two diamonds.</em></div>
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<em>"Because they are true collector's items, only 500 have been produced. Each dangle charm is engraved with a unique number (from 1-500) and they are only sold in selected stores in France but we have kept 10 for you!" </em></div>
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Contest rules were available on Pandora.net.</div>
The charm was valued at 599 € (approximately $860 CDN/$665 USD)</div>
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Sheila Holmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07000364375238585453noreply@blogger.com0