tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79043379261270043522024-03-16T23:53:26.895-07:00Life by CynthiaLife by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.comBlogger313125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-14023338648945098162024-02-26T05:00:00.000-08:002024-02-28T07:14:25.106-08:00CIF Rules Regarding Boys Volleyball Uniform : Slunks NOT Allowed<p><a href="https://cifss.org/news/boys-volleyball-illegal-uniform-shorts/" target="_blank">Boys Volleyball Illegal Uniform Shorts</a></p><p><span><b>Update: 2/27/24 - Slunks for the WIN! Slunks will have a CIF compliant option.</b></span></p><p><br /></p><div>As of February 17, 2024 Slunks are illegal to wear during the Boys High School Volleyball Season according to CIF.</div><div><br /></div>Who knew about this? I didn't. But now that I know, I want to know what your thoughts are. How do you all feel about this new rule? I feel bad for the high schools that have already purchased their 2024 uniforms that include Slunks shorts for their teams.<p></p><p>According to a notice published on January 16, 2024 by the CIF Southern Section: <b><i>There are several different styles of uniform shorts made by Slunks that are illegal to wear during the Boys Volleyball season starting February 17, 2024.</i></b></p><p>Here is a link detailing the notice: <a href="https://cifss.org/news/boys-volleyball-illegal-uniform-shorts/" target="_blank">Boys Volleyball Illegal Uniform Shorts</a>.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8RCJ4dmb9MyQbrX3XhyB0x7Jr2Bc_2sDTg9qPG03DhGK4LqUp2ERuNiIvWqBhwT9eSsLkkGJJKdClVSGmeeIyYvGAeT5fKJrGvVEwijqWvSTjK4I1pv_RnfEhV4RLSY6XvOEfIhdmOfGlBPk7CsrcjNSh2I01HPWkNvE3_EurC3m9QJn4VXvV_OSJfxbV" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img data-original-height="317" data-original-width="242" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8RCJ4dmb9MyQbrX3XhyB0x7Jr2Bc_2sDTg9qPG03DhGK4LqUp2ERuNiIvWqBhwT9eSsLkkGJJKdClVSGmeeIyYvGAeT5fKJrGvVEwijqWvSTjK4I1pv_RnfEhV4RLSY6XvOEfIhdmOfGlBPk7CsrcjNSh2I01HPWkNvE3_EurC3m9QJn4VXvV_OSJfxbV=w488-h640" width="488" /></a></p><p>We fall under the umbrella of the CIF Southern Section. This section has 556 schools. I couldn't find anything specifically for CIF San Diego - but according the the map, we are included. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFVDWhETMbYjE5VciuKNARSgVQnxnVtNXNuysrDMFcTaBMUtyAgjex_PbjuROkRTjxIZp78WzydEICC7dKVKCFuZYqLx5SYWDMwz0O4u5oGeLxFvWbxOZPXaftYQFa1gKJ2vf85L8qcf-9so4zdaFxRDY8wbAELJtaB0DsXrGmmZDTGkfBNubqhJHnp02f" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="850" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFVDWhETMbYjE5VciuKNARSgVQnxnVtNXNuysrDMFcTaBMUtyAgjex_PbjuROkRTjxIZp78WzydEICC7dKVKCFuZYqLx5SYWDMwz0O4u5oGeLxFvWbxOZPXaftYQFa1gKJ2vf85L8qcf-9so4zdaFxRDY8wbAELJtaB0DsXrGmmZDTGkfBNubqhJHnp02f=w541-h640" width="541" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>I am bummed for the kids, coaches, and for the Slunks fam that this affects. </p><div>My son likes wearing Slunks. He has NEVER asked me to buy him a pair. Not once. He has never been materialistic. I get them for him because he is a good kid. He really is. And, he is a good volleyball player. He improves every time he touches a volleyball. He works hard. </div><div><br /></div><div>I know that this may sound weird - but they give the kid a little something. You always hear life/career coaches often refer to this quote: "Dress for the Job You Want, Not the Job You Have", or - the Barbara Corcoran Quote: “If you want to be noticed, dress the part" - My son at 13 is not familiar with this grown-up chatter. However, I remember how<i><u> I</u> </i>felt when I was on the volleyball court in <a href="http://www.lifebycynthia.com/2023/10/all-volleyball-lets-go-retro.html" target="_blank">MY volleyball apparel</a>. I felt something special and I want to give my kid that edge. When you are dressed the part - you move differently. Call it confidence. Call it identifying as a volleyball player.<div><br /></div><div>Moms take note: Slunks shorts wash and wear <b><u>so well</u></b>! All of his shorts look BRAND NEW even after they have been through the wash SO MANY TIMES. Are they expensive? Well, if you factor in the cost per wear - - - I would say that they are WORTH IT. And here is a BONUS: If your kiddo outgrows them, Slunks has a strong resale value. Or you can trade them with other Slunks collectors. Another plus: that fabric is lined, comfortable, and made from recycled plastic bottles. <div><br /></div><div>My son will be starting high school in the Fall and will be trying out for the high school volleyball team in the Spring. We can reserve Slunk wearing for practices and club. Regardless of what the definition of acceptable uniforms are - we will still love and play volleyball - in our Slunks!</div><div><br /></div><div>Will other volleyball brands be banned? Will uniforms look boring? Will they ban the tight teeny tiny spandex shorts for the girls' uniforms?</div></div><div><br /></div><div>How strictly will they enforce this "no-Slunks" policy?</div><div><br /></div><div>I would love to learn how this came about. Since they were not banned before, why are they deemed illegal now? How did CIF folks arrive at this decision? If you know, please share your insight.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Or, if you just want to tell me about YOUR Slunks collection - please feel free.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-91961415575191740842023-12-29T16:12:00.000-08:002024-02-20T16:27:58.005-08:00Health & Fitness ExpoFitness Friday! I wanted to share some of my memories of 2023 that are tied to health, fitness, and FUN. My dear friend, Pam and I had the opportunity to attend the 2023 Idea Fit Health & Fitness Expo. I wanted to revisit this experience to keep it top of mind for my journey into 2024!<div><br /><center><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuyIYmoo6g5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuyIYmoo6g5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0px;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0px auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g fill-rule="evenodd" fill="none" stroke-width="1" stroke="none"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0px;"></div> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px;"><div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12.5px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 14px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px); width: 12.5px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style="border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); border-top: 2px solid transparent; height: 0px; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg); width: 0px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="border-right: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); transform: translateY(16px); width: 0px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; transform: translateY(-4px); width: 16px;"></div> <div style="border-left: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); height: 0px; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px); width: 0px;"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuyIYmoo6g5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Cynthia (@lifebycynthia)</a><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span></p></div></blockquote></center></div><div><center> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></center></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
We had the opportunity to learn about new products. <div><br /><center><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cuv3fEWockx/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 3px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 0px 0px 1px 0px, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.15) 0px 1px 10px 0px; margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0px; width: calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding: 16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cuv3fEWockx/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 0; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"><div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0px;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0px auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g fill-rule="evenodd" fill="none" stroke-width="1" stroke="none"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0px;"></div> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px;"><div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12.5px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 14px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px); width: 12.5px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style="border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); border-top: 2px solid transparent; height: 0px; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg); width: 0px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="border-right: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); transform: translateY(16px); width: 0px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; transform: translateY(-4px); width: 16px;"></div> <div style="border-left: 8px solid transparent; border-top: 8px solid rgb(244, 244, 244); height: 0px; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px); width: 0px;"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cuv3fEWockx/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Cynthia (@lifebycynthia)</a></p></div></blockquote><p> </p> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></center></div>
<center><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuxNqNNIshA/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuxNqNNIshA/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuxNqNNIshA/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Cynthia (@lifebycynthia)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></center>Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-87988074740146214012023-11-09T23:11:00.002-08:002023-11-10T08:32:10.916-08:00San Diego MOJO! Let's GOOO West Coast!<p>San Diego MOJO! Let's GOOO West Coast!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAOENyrf9rUrODzahGM19bIt0elui6cI1NnnewpIhIsmon4Dwm-T6s7ATIXrhQB2suzPNwiK9iMcpl1nWcvin6q__6tm7XdjF3KvJYVSt_4MMUW21dSkNAhYX7fAb_mZreTv59jInVGh0cRzscyouaseU1OIVBip-zAZv41MeUHZLcGl-jL5YsxVRvDNV/s768/San%20Diego%20Mojo%20Logo%20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAOENyrf9rUrODzahGM19bIt0elui6cI1NnnewpIhIsmon4Dwm-T6s7ATIXrhQB2suzPNwiK9iMcpl1nWcvin6q__6tm7XdjF3KvJYVSt_4MMUW21dSkNAhYX7fAb_mZreTv59jInVGh0cRzscyouaseU1OIVBip-zAZv41MeUHZLcGl-jL5YsxVRvDNV/w640-h640/San%20Diego%20Mojo%20Logo%20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>In 2024 the Pro Volleyball Federation will hold its inaugural season and I am all about it!</p><p>I have been following along with great anticipation (mostly on Instagram) for the reveal of San Diego's team name and mascot! Last night it was revealed: The San Diego Mojo! Mascot: the Osprey. </p><p>My wait is over. I support this squad and love that SOON I will be able to witness LIVE pro volleyball, represent in SD Mojo merch, and just be in total awe. Who wants to come with to the home opener on February 23rd at Viejas Arena? Let's GO! I already tried logging in to secure tickets and got my message to "Check back soon for more information" notice - - Oh I WILL be checking back soon. I wanna be first in line. LOL. More to come my friends.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.provolleyball.com/san-diego/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.provolleyball.com/san-diego/" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="957" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgqMTCQzWa0On6Z-IJtKgRcdJ87qC_fAKsrHuV3pvkiUFmcgOYYV5XlpEoFTw1Kj6jnhOPJyRnbx81lEU9q2bSBX8jqBwiLn0auyhTf1ZX38b9zkLkjt6-Pq5PzW_R0fo52qTkCs09GyYfJaq3D9VS7LrJXDUnV6ou27RlbZS_fiknC1Gf_VK9dIqJ0RcKT=w640-h498" title="https://www.provolleyball.com/san-diego/" width="640" /></a></div>Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-33959707988590535792023-10-10T22:00:00.019-07:002023-11-22T09:52:42.777-08:00ALL VOLLEYBALL - Let's Go Retro<p>UPDATE - Started off with 3 pairs at the original blog post date. We are now up to 13.</p><p><br /></p><p>If you "know me-know me" you get that Volleyball is a BIG deal for me and mine. I grew up with the sport and am THRILLED that my 13-year-old son is doing so too. I fell in love in middle school. Eventually playing on my high school team. Countless hours of pepper with my BFF during off season. Total rec rat status. Finding open gym and staying from open to close.... When in school, waiting for the last bell was torture. All I wanted to do was go volleyball practice already. Drawing volleyballs on my Pee-Chee folders and book covers while in class was my favorite way to pass the time. This was the 1980's after all so pen to paper. In my case doodling on my folders and book covers. No iPhones for us. Our electronic devices were simple: a handheld Mattel football game and an Atari gaming console - both not allowed in school.</p><p>Volleyball merch? Keychains, stickers, magazines... if I saw it, I bought it. All of my allowance money (and eventually money from my first part time job at 15) went to my love of the sport. Volleyball on the brain 24/7.</p><p>Back in the day, my favorite volleyball apparel brands included I Dig Sportwear, Club Sportswear, Red Sand, Side Out, and Mossimo. I had a nice little collection that I would wear proudly to volleyball practice - - - anywhere really. I had superpowers when I donned these clothes. No, really. I did. When I was dressed in my volleyball attire, I promise you this: I felt like I was able to play better, faster, longer, smarter... No joke. Please tell me that you can relate.</p><p>These days, <a href="https://getslunks.com/pages/about-us" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Slunks </a>are all the rage. They have some crazy (in a good way) graphic shorts. Honestly, Slunks takes me back. Like a trip down memory lane. Only better. To the oldies like me, WE <b>are</b> able to do it all again! And get this: "<i><b>....obligation as Slunks to pay HOMAGE to any and all that have Slunked before us</b></i>" - I like it.</p><p>I'm starting my son's Slunks collection. My hope is to give him the superpowers that I imagined I had at his age when I wore my favorite volleyball apparel. Though it may sound like materialistic - it REALLY, really isn't. It's a feeling of being dressed for the part. I think it made me play better. The power of suggestion? Look good, feel good? A sense of community with other volleyball players and Slunks collectors? Whatever IT is, it is something that I want to gift my kid with.</p><p>BONUS: Slunks' roots are in Southern California (Like us - go SoCal!) <b>and </b>are sustainably made (Way to go - Recycle!).</p><p>Now will I have to find a second job to fund this collection venture? Uh - maybe. Final thought: WORTH IT. We are dipping our toes in with more subdued styles (for now). Watch out though, I hear this can reach obsession status. It's all good.</p><div><br /></div><p>Here is the collection so far:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/cashews-178778_750x.jpg?v=1600462884" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/cashews-178778_750x.jpg?v=1600462884" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pair 1 - Cashews</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/air-beaus-247939_750x.jpg?v=1596387776" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/air-beaus-247939_750x.jpg?v=1596387776" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 2 - Air Beaus</td></tr></tbody></table><span> </span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/we-are-backs-492416_3d84db8f-fa75-4e71-a18d-2767b0de376d_750x.jpg?v=1653520726" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="620" height="200" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/we-are-backs-492416_3d84db8f-fa75-4e71-a18d-2767b0de376d_750x.jpg?v=1653520726" width="187" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 3 - We R Backs</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/disco-slunks-141275_750x.jpg?v=1600415273" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/disco-slunks-141275_750x.jpg?v=1600415273" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 4 - Discos</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDO_WA_VmNtD9wCtbk7PolT_Dm4uu6XLR-Y4XaIj_8nik1xJh3kfvARJyEeoFFCPGhyphenhyphen2kyGFlgTI9gh1yqBR0Uq5ntjyy_dpfW59Z-lDJfVusiYEMuhvjvhXDZCUaUjLfpB_JNXFnJYNYA0SWCOhNgHaG2UKiv9LJqTCeBQSbZsO-j9eMTkvoxsgvJ23hX/s687/smooth-operators-464685_18f42a6a-9fe9-4e73-8304-a0d23b2765eb_750x.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="687" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDO_WA_VmNtD9wCtbk7PolT_Dm4uu6XLR-Y4XaIj_8nik1xJh3kfvARJyEeoFFCPGhyphenhyphen2kyGFlgTI9gh1yqBR0Uq5ntjyy_dpfW59Z-lDJfVusiYEMuhvjvhXDZCUaUjLfpB_JNXFnJYNYA0SWCOhNgHaG2UKiv9LJqTCeBQSbZsO-j9eMTkvoxsgvJ23hX/w200-h199/smooth-operators-464685_18f42a6a-9fe9-4e73-8304-a0d23b2765eb_750x.webp" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 5 - Smooth Operators<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR83OnLxquk7RCVckpR7HR8QIFuDRJvNSyyNPxzOZoQGN4RI2WXzsGXY8qEyugGiIuFMoZkDlKyIY8J5ERShM9-QId_xmJ8yrKOnjw2aKihNZOhxgnskMJQSPRUPYBho0BvVauuptleGNfXefeyxQQXZARf9M3s0wV_f8_qVBDuwTtKEutnxjQN9xEs7i2/s1600/slunks%20front.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"></a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/IMG_7174_750x.jpg?v=1658868687" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="750" height="240" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/IMG_7174_750x.jpg?v=1658868687" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 6 - S De Lays</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/acid-slunks-899850_750x.jpg?v=1600408813" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/acid-slunks-899850_750x.jpg?v=1600408813" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 7 - Acids</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcttINe76pTxPr3_nLAWOccuVIuMvmewhfoQtSfD5-05sVxRq2c6dI-cNE5eG5lEizehsnNiKZ6iwjD81Xrim2AMtz2UAHSOkaDfnz0WVX_74ACTbVUy1tJv2OMCK6C58Jzf7-MMAuAfmjzhhj1v2eAdIPI6IZ90hOkvBcbIAoYUCK32pGL84pTNaHGv5d/s775/Slunks%20Marley's.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="775" data-original-width="775" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcttINe76pTxPr3_nLAWOccuVIuMvmewhfoQtSfD5-05sVxRq2c6dI-cNE5eG5lEizehsnNiKZ6iwjD81Xrim2AMtz2UAHSOkaDfnz0WVX_74ACTbVUy1tJv2OMCK6C58Jzf7-MMAuAfmjzhhj1v2eAdIPI6IZ90hOkvBcbIAoYUCK32pGL84pTNaHGv5d/w320-h320/Slunks%20Marley's.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 8 - Marley's</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/bologna-fade-aways-993446_750x.jpg?v=1600414135" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/bologna-fade-aways-993446_750x.jpg?v=1600414135" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 9 - Bologna Fade Aways</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span> </span><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0HhdLC3kVBsdEV81A1KmeQ9z5udA63qeMQGEv_Wal4E8CPPexzdRR6Db4CsjK3V-L22giF79Wm6Z7bv5mWbiyOUA2B3bGJSFJrs2QUuYJhKxM5-uS_eSYGKAPX4w9XKET3mHdKan_UkaKRQSf3Jy77AnS261Tr0i2Ai85CT6Zl4pQ4FrWFMS2f5-AzW_A" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0HhdLC3kVBsdEV81A1KmeQ9z5udA63qeMQGEv_Wal4E8CPPexzdRR6Db4CsjK3V-L22giF79Wm6Z7bv5mWbiyOUA2B3bGJSFJrs2QUuYJhKxM5-uS_eSYGKAPX4w9XKET3mHdKan_UkaKRQSf3Jy77AnS261Tr0i2Ai85CT6Zl4pQ4FrWFMS2f5-AzW_A" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 10 - Moons</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5rONNS8D0Hfv8SD0g2FZCDFOMN1rDebzePCoEjLR47DTSy7LIXe19qMbHnDYCSht5elPRO5Z-rjMOV5Z9loid4LPny1FdqhJgbgrU7WDztnwOepzo7YGM2cvlK0d6MdNGSpm4uh6I-yNbMm2YgR3LgDH5Y_dPmCi5bUs1eM_u-CweATuqn9_Y1hNYSVTv" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5rONNS8D0Hfv8SD0g2FZCDFOMN1rDebzePCoEjLR47DTSy7LIXe19qMbHnDYCSht5elPRO5Z-rjMOV5Z9loid4LPny1FdqhJgbgrU7WDztnwOepzo7YGM2cvlK0d6MdNGSpm4uh6I-yNbMm2YgR3LgDH5Y_dPmCi5bUs1eM_u-CweATuqn9_Y1hNYSVTv" width="240" /></a></div><br />Pair 11 - YMC</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/files/PhotoRoom_016_20230613_104254_1800x1800.jpg?v=1686683961" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="800" height="288" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/files/PhotoRoom_016_20230613_104254_1800x1800.jpg?v=1686683961" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair 12 - Flossoms</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/cool-cats-and-kittens-510256_a2b8af06-f926-405d-ad0b-56210fe262fe_750x.jpg?v=1653518570" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="429" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://getslunks.com/cdn/shop/products/cool-cats-and-kittens-510256_a2b8af06-f926-405d-ad0b-56210fe262fe_750x.jpg?v=1653518570" width="196" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pair 13 - Cool Cats & Kittens</div><br /><br /><br /><br />I heard it from a little birdie... There WILL be a Black Friday sale. Hopefully, I can find some wiggle room in the finances to allow for a purchase (or 3). <br /><div><br /></div><div>Check out this fun YouTube video by Ci Michel : <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6AGYBdktaY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Day in the life of SLUNKS: The best volleyball lifestyle brand!</a> We just might take up Chris' (Slunks CEO) offer! He <b><u>DID</u></b> say that <b>anyone and everyone is welcome to come here whenever they want, open arms</b> (check it 2:32 of the video). Well Slunks Headquarters Team / Fam - I would love to take a field trip from San Diego to you with my son to say HI! </div><div><br /></div>
<enter><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g6AGYBdktaY?si=i-YEk1bXezZS-3x0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div></enter><div><br /></div><div>Note: This is NOT a sponsored post. But I wouldn't be opposed to it (hint-hint). Waving hello to Slunks. And anyone else who may be tuned in.... HI!</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-57671915629955177172023-09-11T13:36:00.002-07:002023-09-12T06:16:54.843-07:00Fall Fundraiser and Holiday Gift Ideas<p>Hello! I am reaching out to garner support for the kids at my son's school. I hope that you will consider shopping with us! </p><p>Our 2023 <a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fall Fundraiser</a> began on Friday September 8th and will
continue through Monday September
25th.</p><p>As for myself, I am doing double duty with this fundraiser! I am supporting our school AND getting some Holiday gifts for my friends and family! Gift wrap and gourmet goodies included! </p><p>Here are a few of my favorites!</p><p>For my plant-loving Mom:</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipidp4btyykvRIISrWDThX9YHIfJzqVZy7h0N8fk47hDsqyUiM0xJoFlvpfVu6rpLxMfrnIkpBonplyLTKgFtDBrDVfBHBmlTfu9ySzZzSaaOdJSMYWG5ra8qhzU6QHeT8R23Gqr_zoH2j4xCd3FoOzsn7Y7WZ-Hgdul2QDFHBYnE-qSOqfgzvYWQx5Dpt/w640-h640/Tote.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Distracted by Plants Shopper $22</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>For Sis (or Me!) :</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjND1YxnbSvUVlk13kOwTegGLdAP508ZLcdMF85Che3GDyzbeFhnPXD2ZfBbjTlkYhb_fWz9vJ7c-Lv4O2Z3rm09WEDm-rPr24trCMQwCml4PFPszK7DJEcjHhHeKlKF88MrF9DNBi90-TWzYka6w7o1wyAWd5gUv00MwPC8LfR5RtnPj3v6Pb5eHnRaGsC/w640-h640/Bento%20Lunch%20Box.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" target="_blank">Bento Style Bamboo Lunch Box $14</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>To share at the office:</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZObHJgEKkn0UalGA66Cl2mXbbImmcttawu1S9IYoB8NDc-4ECk6DrCflUtmJ5stEywSQzUHwrCM4I3QAxxFiCdfwIuUczbNMyXIFfMOQJFUie_qvoRiIKrDvBRVIpE26zgtVI8kbsI9SBrO1tp6668SR3Vkmk38dNISPbFm1riR0SArrCUk2Jb86dhPZ/w640-h640/Gourmet%20Truffles.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gourmet Truffle Assortment $28</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>For Music Teacher/Music Lover/Planner Lover</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJkOreoDXUdDDwfOuXKX1S-Rn_BiDc-iVpOVkufPguE8XYg7xeJAdS_ApRTtRzKy6Ngb1-N_NTRpco-o9jZ6GDTPxBSkXq5qOeet6Np7KyleraR8c90A-qTAfOS2F9c2KXRUtCmbZJkC-m-pgC9-h3heDbQp1CO_CtZOEh9Wj63g7Uv4KHCDoePoM3OBl/w640-h640/Music_notes_1__80762.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://registercw.com/Glqd9LmLac" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Music Notes Paper Clips</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p>Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-73153501540367345972023-08-10T13:46:00.000-07:002023-08-10T13:46:46.041-07:00Thoughts on Motherhood<p>I have been a mom for 13 years now. I thank God every single day that I received the gift of motherhood. I was nearly 40 at the time of my son's birth. I had a high risk pregnancy. There were frequent prenatal visits, tests, test RESULTS... Results that led to Prenatal Genetic Counseling to discuss risks, options... It was a scary time. I've never talked much about that experience. Instead, I keep it quiet as I humble myself and keep gratitude top of mind. My heart aches to know that things can and do end differently. I know how fortunate I am to have a positive outcome. I know that my child is a miracle. My miracle. I want to move through this life as a mother always trying (through my actions) to somehow deserve this role, this child. My son.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPpAMCpCHdQDRp6QK7vU8FdQ9PRp9E7oMxGGN6NPOp0gADtWSyULKlnv2mtHIrLBfuPR--wd2vaMfl6vO9hvi81ZMW-iZDCWecbEBs_TSN-08Dhoid2sRp-Sd-NY80mJ-yehKlfoJ1Ul8PdfJD_o1sEy9RWSnSIJ-IBzjq4cEfs0Z7mJkAzYySAo9Cru2a/s2592/Schwinn%20Tricycle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPpAMCpCHdQDRp6QK7vU8FdQ9PRp9E7oMxGGN6NPOp0gADtWSyULKlnv2mtHIrLBfuPR--wd2vaMfl6vO9hvi81ZMW-iZDCWecbEBs_TSN-08Dhoid2sRp-Sd-NY80mJ-yehKlfoJ1Ul8PdfJD_o1sEy9RWSnSIJ-IBzjq4cEfs0Z7mJkAzYySAo9Cru2a/w640-h480/Schwinn%20Tricycle.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p>Was I overprotective? In some cases, yes. In others, no. It's silly to me now how I perceived risks. I put a helmet on my 2 year old when he rode his first tricycle. I look at the video now and see how my child was careful and slow, with a low center of gravity. Not very likely of experiencing a fall. Not a very risky scenario at all. But at the time, I made sure he was protected. I have posted a short video and you can clearly see there was no imminent danger. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilv52AtqmAF9UN6Arg-MULhRK0BS5_rjx6b63fLkBG_q7hGTPezno4Bz0MOp1srgybBPNMjt-jbUR3tH5hgWEW-tD8jaIlp-31oVl-_FOm76aUQToAE43IdPiDk21RCwTySrpXthbnHmJCYhdRjkoeKh79wGa4gJEXlQbP962wBwXXr1vkBvH9QGmExnZw/s1928/Tricycle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1928" data-original-width="1686" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilv52AtqmAF9UN6Arg-MULhRK0BS5_rjx6b63fLkBG_q7hGTPezno4Bz0MOp1srgybBPNMjt-jbUR3tH5hgWEW-tD8jaIlp-31oVl-_FOm76aUQToAE43IdPiDk21RCwTySrpXthbnHmJCYhdRjkoeKh79wGa4gJEXlQbP962wBwXXr1vkBvH9QGmExnZw/w560-h640/Tricycle.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vAbWjTFJocs" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></center><p>His pediatrician warned about not sharing the same spoon when feeding our baby. Germs. His Grandfather would spoon feed my little one from his dish, with the <b><i><u>same</u></i></b> spoon that he fed himself. I cringed. In my head, the doctor's advice SHOUTING at me to stop him. I let it go. The pure JOY on Grandpa's face (and in his voice) as my little voracious eater shared a meal with his grandfather.... I could not take that from either of them. The love they shared with each other AND with food was a sight to behold. My baby, probably only 18 months old at the time (maybe even younger) LOVED the soup they were eating. He was like a baby bird with this mouth open and ready for the next spoonful. We lost his grandfather a few years later. He was only 4 years old at the time of his passing. I don't know if he remembers being fed, but I remind him of the story from time to time and can't help but wonder about how their foodie adventures would be like now...</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QnJWW_YztLFIExndmsAF_bqcZY88RPM0RUp0o6kOteVLLopf1hMHVKmPPyRLyOJYLRsoZl943c9gvDBtvqpWskrSmxPZcH1S4nJStcQiUdBeccdCrIBIyikfhNLIJkdTGeo1MzB1dPcqSO-65f_CLddIb2O7nbbTGfbaRFxbTrbeY31ggjfQ4QVk35kz/s1937/Baby%20Bird.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1937" data-original-width="1524" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QnJWW_YztLFIExndmsAF_bqcZY88RPM0RUp0o6kOteVLLopf1hMHVKmPPyRLyOJYLRsoZl943c9gvDBtvqpWskrSmxPZcH1S4nJStcQiUdBeccdCrIBIyikfhNLIJkdTGeo1MzB1dPcqSO-65f_CLddIb2O7nbbTGfbaRFxbTrbeY31ggjfQ4QVk35kz/w504-h640/Baby%20Bird.jpg" width="504" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If there was food, they would be sharing!</td></tr></tbody></table><center><br /></center>Final thoughts:<div><br /></div><div>Would tell to my 41 year old self to not worry and skip the bike helmet? Probably not. It seems overprotective of me NOW looking back. But back then, I felt like I did the right thing. If anything, it eased my mind. Took my worry away.<div><br /></div><div>13 years into my motherhood journey and I still have worries. They are evolving as he grows up. I trust that he has a strong foundation and I try my best to remind him I will be here with a safe landing pad should he ever need me.</div><div><br /></div><div>How do we protect our kids as they enter their teen years?</div></div>Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-72686876000777231342023-07-14T13:23:00.001-07:002023-07-18T07:28:45.000-07:00IDEA WORLD FITNESS & NUTRITION EXPO 2023<p><a href="https://www.ideafit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IWC23-social-Illbethere-v1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://www.ideafit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IWC23-social-Illbethere-v1.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPj7q5or-UjsT04miDyXqk6P5X_GANretZXDUCUQ7BTTpBZgKxtJ2M4sB0-4DYSIxM4AIJravp2556kkhO9_khI7uKeL171E0ERbs-A6EYM81r6ta7QC04Zbk9jZpzM3zHWzR335KfdjVmDItC88z78Hic3Yr6WqKBQ5ExdVDQbFyxZxgPRi_ucaiLms2/s1823/Cynthia%20Badge.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1823" data-original-width="1108" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPj7q5or-UjsT04miDyXqk6P5X_GANretZXDUCUQ7BTTpBZgKxtJ2M4sB0-4DYSIxM4AIJravp2556kkhO9_khI7uKeL171E0ERbs-A6EYM81r6ta7QC04Zbk9jZpzM3zHWzR335KfdjVmDItC88z78Hic3Yr6WqKBQ5ExdVDQbFyxZxgPRi_ucaiLms2/s320/Cynthia%20Badge.jpeg" width="194" /></a></div>I will be a 3rd-time attendee and am very excited to "get up to speed on the latest and greatest in fitness, nutrition, apparel, education and services" as described on the IDEA website! <div><br /></div><div>I was at the 2016 for I<b>DEA World Fitness/BlogFest</b> in Los Angeles and then again in 2018 in San Diego. </div><div><br /></div><div>I will not be attending sessions or programming. I didn't hear any buzz about <b>BlogFest</b> this year - which was geared for social sharers like myself. This year I be visiting the Expo, which that in itself is AMAZING! The energy flowing at Idea World is life-giving! Honestly, there are so MANY people, products, brands, ideas, and stories all geared for improved quality of life. All things that align with me and my life goals. You will be inspired.</div><div><div><br /></div><div>Once upon a time I was young, healthy, fit, and full of energy. Destroyed by trauma from a car accident, chronic stress, hormones (peri-menopause), etc. - - - I find myself here in my 50's lacking in the vitality that I once had. I am on my journey to reclaim what I allowed father time and mother nature to strip away from me.</div><div><br /></div><div>I now have a personal trainer, a strong will to recover, and hope for healthy aging. My mantra: I am living the REST of my life as the BEST of my life!<br /><br />To share my experiences at the event I will be posting on my Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/lifebycynthia" target="_blank">@lifebycynthia</a> and sharing more here in the blog. Please stay tuned and let's connect!<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-3007377995083890812023-07-13T14:30:00.010-07:002023-07-13T22:53:07.265-07:00VoloKids San Diego Youth Beach Volleyball<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhri_-upkDm0oUrz4fIuo4XpJwEpd9Tjyo5aiclaBC-bAKWQJzZLMIkivo13EkRKgy8H3sm6y9Xg_xe46CM9b_0XlBtVxhQngj5GGC5azQKobgFDdk1oJixQcOE3-iCCgw3y2tvNVXGYrLQBrZRT-eh0gJjRRBS_RaIPOcpwbi9b846cTObYxVXIh2ELsKx/s640/VoloKidsSD%20Beach%20Volleyball%202023.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="VoloKids Beach Volleyball 2023" border="0" data-original-height="272" data-original-width="640" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhri_-upkDm0oUrz4fIuo4XpJwEpd9Tjyo5aiclaBC-bAKWQJzZLMIkivo13EkRKgy8H3sm6y9Xg_xe46CM9b_0XlBtVxhQngj5GGC5azQKobgFDdk1oJixQcOE3-iCCgw3y2tvNVXGYrLQBrZRT-eh0gJjRRBS_RaIPOcpwbi9b846cTObYxVXIh2ELsKx/w640-h272/VoloKidsSD%20Beach%20Volleyball%202023.jpeg" title="VoloKids Beach Volleyball 2023" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VoloKidsSD Beach Volleyball Program Summer 2023</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My son is a participant in the <a href="https://volokids.org/city/san-diego/">VoloKids San Diego</a> Youth Beach Volleyball Summer 2023 Program. We wanted to share a recap of our experience.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">FREE youth volleyball programs are hard to come by. In fact, this was the first that I have found. Please let me know in the comments if you know of any others in San Diego and surrounding areas.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I have found that there <b>are </b>open gyms in San Diego where you can <b><i>play</i></b> for free. You would need to know fundamental volleyball skills. It can be tough to even <b>get</b> on the court since they can often be crowded and a bit cliquey (depending on where you go that is).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The open gyms do not offer instruction for kids to <b><i>learn</i></b> the game. With the VoloKids program, the kids get an introduction as as well as hands on instruction with dedicated coaches.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The beach volleyball program is co-ed and open to kids that are 5 to 13 years old. It's a great way to introduce the little ones to the sport. The coaching staff is unbelievably patient and I applaud them for sharing their time and talent. The coaches volunteer their time to benefit youth in San Diego. My son just turned 13 and was the oldest in the group for this session. He, along with some of the 10 year olds, were invited to help demonstrate skills to the younger participants. This was his first try at beach volleyball and he had a positive experience. We will be back. Even though he is older, we appreciate that he is getting instruction and practice. It’s a great thing to get coaching and feedback while getting accustomed to playing on sand vs. indoor play. Bonus: being outdoors! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This program meets weekly. The session is broken down as follows: <u>First 30 Minutes</u> - Coaches will practice a clinical skill with players. <u>Second 30 Minutes</u> - Players will put new skills to work in a refereed game. <u>Last 30 minutes</u> - Players will be given a snack and asked to check out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Below are a few photos of what the kids were taught. If you want to see a video of the last session - I have posted a video on my Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CunYLwbKxaQ/?igshid=Y2IzZGU1MTFhOQ== ">@lifebycynthia</a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArTIhQX-1e09xZ31sDOOeRGK_r3nbs7pRBQfXPsU-Qm2ScZRLuRT_tLohkak5WGVusbRecOOXfzL2nPWMNyTG8EiR-ioQC26PX2gwEqtxayVhI-vPWY9FrM_QsT70WEZ1qpXoT0HjbWKVKNPRUQap-JfhMY_MPf3ogr8wLsDvM3nkAK9hpZe3HtFSQLyN/s566/Warm%20Up.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="425" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArTIhQX-1e09xZ31sDOOeRGK_r3nbs7pRBQfXPsU-Qm2ScZRLuRT_tLohkak5WGVusbRecOOXfzL2nPWMNyTG8EiR-ioQC26PX2gwEqtxayVhI-vPWY9FrM_QsT70WEZ1qpXoT0HjbWKVKNPRUQap-JfhMY_MPf3ogr8wLsDvM3nkAK9hpZe3HtFSQLyN/w480-h640/Warm%20Up.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting Started: The kids are grouped by age.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />After warm ups the children are split into groups based on age. The coaches demonstrate and explain each skill: passing, setting, and hitting.<div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhow4P-Aj051U_l0wwofgqrMI4syGHUXsKHQYTX8JhFOsWIZIA7W0I5n336tpT4IdyMjBKFuP8RYKqdAfn5F8VHapG0KTePoFVFpikczu4tKgIe6VJxlMInKItd-sNIWTt6pYMqREV1MppCAUkstnLSeCLwhirqlENQlHZLSwJ9naE-VF2kvbzZQwQXVib5/s526/Passing%20Skills.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="395" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhow4P-Aj051U_l0wwofgqrMI4syGHUXsKHQYTX8JhFOsWIZIA7W0I5n336tpT4IdyMjBKFuP8RYKqdAfn5F8VHapG0KTePoFVFpikczu4tKgIe6VJxlMInKItd-sNIWTt6pYMqREV1MppCAUkstnLSeCLwhirqlENQlHZLSwJ9naE-VF2kvbzZQwQXVib5/w480-h640/Passing%20Skills.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coach demonstrating proper form for their platform<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkzBo3EEyHRE5pYTH8ByV53FyrRwPXuBdhuHnopuLE0-W1Xb9adx0cqWV1BeunZ2sDAqC8mMSS5RcjJYaldcq-egcGbM9SfV5t2UPL5odyf4ud8aqb7-nyNMDnhBNAxQiotKybx5lsVIERkmp6P7ylh4rEHgzNYqkBFXyF7deZ-PjqUSDh5WeMG3CBYTFu/s575/Down%20and%20Ready.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="431" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkzBo3EEyHRE5pYTH8ByV53FyrRwPXuBdhuHnopuLE0-W1Xb9adx0cqWV1BeunZ2sDAqC8mMSS5RcjJYaldcq-egcGbM9SfV5t2UPL5odyf4ud8aqb7-nyNMDnhBNAxQiotKybx5lsVIERkmp6P7ylh4rEHgzNYqkBFXyF7deZ-PjqUSDh5WeMG3CBYTFu/w480-h640/Down%20and%20Ready.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting down & ready</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0XYRosXFjdBD7BAPv7RgcgNvPDD44DZlHJlTJo49AmOcKRYEGPqGl0W1GSlrxCHgDznSfmtt9ZNj-cyeHnx05OjWjGvy_c98pOEY8rhdSPhGMh7g4Vh7r8vY7pqDr7m0PPDdR3aC23YKh_LRQfRPbSrVJ0wZ-IKaDHgv0xGXh6zzdW-UdR9O6MQaotov/s567/Passing%20Drill.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="426" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0XYRosXFjdBD7BAPv7RgcgNvPDD44DZlHJlTJo49AmOcKRYEGPqGl0W1GSlrxCHgDznSfmtt9ZNj-cyeHnx05OjWjGvy_c98pOEY8rhdSPhGMh7g4Vh7r8vY7pqDr7m0PPDdR3aC23YKh_LRQfRPbSrVJ0wZ-IKaDHgv0xGXh6zzdW-UdR9O6MQaotov/w480-h640/Passing%20Drill.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passing Drills</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOeD9Y-Af4TmYkDyOjTyENx7IZxTzt_Do8p2Z3LRx4PAcpStCQ8SIXUJIJPQq4W92Md2cEE3h5eAG-TNt6e7dRihBW4ch-VYxFf1tT7-vfAwb0uvjA9K3GKYin2agmi_-vxTLNvOo1sfjvrOBzAutf3etnTyWw62nDHo9b_qfZbRVYX6P_VhWvw1R-hAP/s457/Setting%20Skills.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="343" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOeD9Y-Af4TmYkDyOjTyENx7IZxTzt_Do8p2Z3LRx4PAcpStCQ8SIXUJIJPQq4W92Md2cEE3h5eAG-TNt6e7dRihBW4ch-VYxFf1tT7-vfAwb0uvjA9K3GKYin2agmi_-vxTLNvOo1sfjvrOBzAutf3etnTyWw62nDHo9b_qfZbRVYX6P_VhWvw1R-hAP/w480-h640/Setting%20Skills.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Learning proper setting technique<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxr5yog2uMMSBA8ZUu0DQNnGqok7KEKxYtZZkfFuyjjcClusooEjr48VyZE0zxW1ySL9Pq3l4U4wnm56uFbC16snxtzDWqGyXOLACsku2ohAMfVRSWmeiiMxgyTWcE5lUIR0WL1gdiYQCbiUbLPaou2rNC4a-G-ipXT7LjPBr29LX519TfUOvpXaMHPiX4/s560/Little%20Volleyballers.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="421" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxr5yog2uMMSBA8ZUu0DQNnGqok7KEKxYtZZkfFuyjjcClusooEjr48VyZE0zxW1ySL9Pq3l4U4wnm56uFbC16snxtzDWqGyXOLACsku2ohAMfVRSWmeiiMxgyTWcE5lUIR0WL1gdiYQCbiUbLPaou2rNC4a-G-ipXT7LjPBr29LX519TfUOvpXaMHPiX4/w482-h640/Little%20Volleyballers.jpeg" width="482" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 5 -Year Olds : The future of volleyball!<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b>Disclosure</b>: I an not affiliated with Volo. I am just sharing our experience and spreading the love for the sport!Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-71517150014979755332023-06-23T09:42:00.000-07:002024-02-20T16:34:41.529-08:00San Diego Parks & Recreation City-Wide Youth Volleyball Tournament<meta content="San Diego City Wide Volleyball Tournament. The city-wide event took place on June 21 at the Balboa Activty Center in San Diego. The Hourglass Recreation Center took home the championship for both 12U and 14U DIV. San Diego citywide, san diego parks and recreation department, volleyball championship tournament. Youth Volleyball San Diego 2023" name="description"></meta>
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line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ctz8x9CAEUp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Gerald Labrador (@geraldlabrador)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></center><div><br /></div>
The 2023 San Diego Parks & Recreation City-Wide Youth Volleyball Tournament took place on June 21 at the Balboa Park Activity Center. The event was sponsored by the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtxWOVdvvyu/?igshid=Y2IzZGU1MTFhOQ==" rel="" target="_blank">San Diego Parks Foundation</a>. The co-ed championship games included 24 teams across 3 divisions: 12U, 14U, and 16U. Each division competes in an 8 team, single elimination bracket.<div><br /></div><div>Pictured below is the 14U Tournament Champions: The Hourglass Phantoms led by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@christeentruong" target="_blank">Coach Christeen</a>. The Phantoms advanced to the championship game by defeating the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ctz04aBP70b/?igshid=Y2IzZGU1MTFhOQ==" target="_blank">North Park Aztecs</a> 2-0 in game 1 and the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuGGFREJ4r5/?igshid=Y2IzZGU1MTFhOQ==" target="_blank">Paradise Hills Panthers</a> 2-0 in game 2. The final matchup was against their sister team, the Hourglass Nightmare. The Phantoms were victorious with a 2-1 win to claim the championship. <br /><div><br /></div><div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ctz8x9CAEUp/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="2023 san diego city wide volleyball" border="0" data-original-height="2109" data-original-width="3021" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJp011tIT3j_Mi7i_83NjTFCF5Shi55uUD3mHdPgZBhqI3m9q88C_UKHMVxZ_i1_2t34QWT05oYbmP-fyneasSAkVzImw7tK77285Z-ZQKgxIZvHkRCcbBdRAGBiKZkxduQsmtHTAYvLepgw9Ae7_JU3nciM4kcCJgMolYGmQlAYEli_7Rrs0GHrpRUWO9/s3021/095B9E99-838C-447E-B659-A872DAB1BA3D.jpeg" title="2023 san diego parks and recreation city wide volleyball championship" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hourglass Phantoms 2023 San Diego City-Wide Youth Tournament Champions 14U DIV<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div></div><div>Pre-Tournament check-in: The Phantoms are ready! Many thanks to volunteer coach Christeen for sharing her love of volleyball, her time, and her talent with the Phantoms! #zerotohero!</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ctz8x9CAEUp/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="2023 san diego parks and recreation city wide volleyball championship tournament" border="0" data-original-height="3504" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivDdVSlrrFtU0beDqawx1AKGxnvtQTRHnidPIwCRqEbfbaCzdtjSBSYX0kqNQcouRFgserDxRweuMcGUckbDjOWCV-a4MDuFJK89dLJSYcozdY27hti2AfTdjZlJShYNp3pdEf1X3biZXBOpI2FVBF3N4DjIfi4t5lEp6mkeNjwOcZOvU3nVJ-aAqQJEZ/w552-h640/4430355A-349A-4D57-A4D5-022AF1C32DBD.jpeg" title="Hourglass Phantoms check in for the 2023 City-Wide Tournament" width="552" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coach Christeen and the Phantoms Checking In</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Message to San Diego high school volleyball coaches: these kids are ones to watch! I see BIG things happening beyond rec-league volleyball for each of them! This was the FIRST tournament for some of these players (my son included). Taking home the top spot is an achievement that memories are made of! We will see that banner proudly hanging in our gym and look back on this day with pride! I pray that the four incoming high school freshmen try out for their respective high school volleyball teams! I'll be in the stands cheering them on.</div><div><br /></div><div>Final note: I attended <u>every</u> practice and <u>every</u> game. I can attest to how much these kids have grown in skill and confidence.</div><div><br /> <script> (function(d, s, id) { var js; if (d.getElementById(id)) {return;} js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "https://embedsocial.com/cdn/ht.js"; d.getElementsByTagName("head")[0].appendChild(js); }(document, "script", "EmbedSocialHashtagScript")); </script> </div></div></div></div>Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com02145 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA32.7267303 -117.14765174.4164964638211544 -152.30390169999998 61.036964136178845 -81.9914017tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-78344327468698027292023-05-04T12:38:00.003-07:002023-05-09T10:05:04.809-07:00Star Wars Day! May the 4th Be With You<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Today is a GREAT day for a blog post! Star Wars fans: it's our day! I don't really have much to write since I am so out of practice (and patience) when it comes to writing blog posts! I will drop a few memories to share. Enjoy!</p><p>Fun times with my Blog Friends in 2016!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh16GY3LXr6VkqtoM-SM6qZaZYYdxk7ct-YuxhelI-9Ac2n7VC282neo7hoTFlC7P3PVmFVUHptzGdD_Jp4_8yICTMjyX4mmTnIVxStOkiTj9tLBnvinOecOUBDHdMejjR4TBk_baFdkBO5zWlmfSyA5jT-cCanoIPKkAYIFrPe9FztuBusVdPAKYjOBQ/s1080/Rogue%20One.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="955" data-original-width="1080" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh16GY3LXr6VkqtoM-SM6qZaZYYdxk7ct-YuxhelI-9Ac2n7VC282neo7hoTFlC7P3PVmFVUHptzGdD_Jp4_8yICTMjyX4mmTnIVxStOkiTj9tLBnvinOecOUBDHdMejjR4TBk_baFdkBO5zWlmfSyA5jT-cCanoIPKkAYIFrPe9FztuBusVdPAKYjOBQ/w400-h354/Rogue%20One.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Star Wars Celebration 2015 in Anaheim with the fam: </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L789_ogHfrw" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></blockquote><p><br /></p><p>My little baby as Yoda in 2011, getting trick-or-treating tips from baby ninja!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXl0DvMhAkRFMtdshwm0DE_GPMEtt7hKsuwQMic3tJkiFF7HmuJ0MFa0wyprT69Ii2wyF8Iba_djYIZ5w5fOtdTu9j9iAbZtoDlC4QlxNQJBhURHcv_7lMOOGLKr6YvhsstQg0GL-1iOPM7HrgAQoW-V8zm_dHKicZsV63yoruK9DqvSdsSsHrzbmC_w/s640/babyyodahalloween2011.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="419" data-original-width="640" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXl0DvMhAkRFMtdshwm0DE_GPMEtt7hKsuwQMic3tJkiFF7HmuJ0MFa0wyprT69Ii2wyF8Iba_djYIZ5w5fOtdTu9j9iAbZtoDlC4QlxNQJBhURHcv_7lMOOGLKr6YvhsstQg0GL-1iOPM7HrgAQoW-V8zm_dHKicZsV63yoruK9DqvSdsSsHrzbmC_w/w400-h263/babyyodahalloween2011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>Ok, catch you later friends! May the 4th be with you!</p>
Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-85761808173618993592020-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:002020-01-02T09:52:04.341-08:00Hello 2020. Happy New Year!2020<br />
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I just wanted to drop in and say hello. This blog has been neglected for far too long. I started this when my son was a just a wee baby. The blog was originally named "Mommied Life by Cynthia" but the blog title evolved to simply - Life by Cynthia. My goal this year is to make time for Life by Cynthia - the blog. I let it slip away from me but am now ready to get back to it!<br />
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I am posting this picture as a reminder and motivation. I hope that you all have a blessed year and are full of excitement of what 2020 has in store.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzoog8v7EbBE59ipY_5GOUoN31qNclAPpzyaKc7-qw0Rz_s5MZRltuUxR9PdbC5IMyAUAaJ21Mj_GeC0lLZLDN-co_TPNNXBh8CyuiAmxlmP0Zd2h68OIo4XXtToQqk2nPEWFYGfYxf1O/s1600/lifebycynthia+farmers+market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="lifebycynthia.com" border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzoog8v7EbBE59ipY_5GOUoN31qNclAPpzyaKc7-qw0Rz_s5MZRltuUxR9PdbC5IMyAUAaJ21Mj_GeC0lLZLDN-co_TPNNXBh8CyuiAmxlmP0Zd2h68OIo4XXtToQqk2nPEWFYGfYxf1O/s640/lifebycynthia+farmers+market.jpg" title="lifebycynthia.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>2010</b></td></tr>
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CynthiaLife by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-16367644411471410522019-05-21T22:01:00.001-07:002019-05-31T10:32:00.080-07:00Summer In San Diego = Backyard Pool Party! #Tryazon #BestWayI have decided to breathe life back in to this old blog of mine! So THANK YOU for visiting! With the onset of Summer I <i><b>should</b></i> have time to get back to one of my favorite things to do: blogging! I am not sure if anyone is reading this so IF you are - please leave a little love in the comments so I can thank you personally!<br />
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I decided to step away from my blog for a little while. That little while turned into a LONG while. I always had the intention of coming back. Now is the time. I'm back! Nearly TWO years later! I am a little bit older, wiser, and living a lot better!<br />
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With a growing child, a new career, and a life ever-changing, I put this space on the back burner. Between family life, my son, and work: we were juggling homework, soccer, scouts, choir, ukulele, and basketball along with my new job, recovery from a BAD car accident, anxiety, chronic stress, etc. A break from blogging was a necessity for me. Life can be a challenge for us all.<br />
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We are on the verge of summer and I am ready!! We will soon have a reprieve from worries about homework, school drop off/pick up, packing lunches, etc., etc., etc. It's time for some good old fashioned summer fun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvCP_vLTPKfwLnfPVjnRoDhye_cngH2_EQTeq0SHN63SZ2rX8mhM1zW2BMVi4nk3CTMw7d6a2Cn0bfwPVKdQzdfWpFJPcrUiIN6-0WHQImgZabPP-vSzVudb1sbYfXrKY9NCF-cQr5aUs/s1600/A655046B-FF14-4E3D-B2A1-1C3BB5CF5BE1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvCP_vLTPKfwLnfPVjnRoDhye_cngH2_EQTeq0SHN63SZ2rX8mhM1zW2BMVi4nk3CTMw7d6a2Cn0bfwPVKdQzdfWpFJPcrUiIN6-0WHQImgZabPP-vSzVudb1sbYfXrKY9NCF-cQr5aUs/s640/A655046B-FF14-4E3D-B2A1-1C3BB5CF5BE1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our FIRST Best Way Pool</td></tr>
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I grew up in San Diego, CA and I have very fond childhood memories of summer days. To cool off, we would run through the sprinklers and have epic water balloon fights! We didn't have a pool, but it was fun to visit a friend's house that had a pool! This a perfect time to insert a shout out to my friends Janine (in elementary school) and Shana (in high school)! Hi Janine! Hi Shana! Thank you both for inviting me to your house for swimming! You might not remember it, but it stands out in my memories from our youth! Some days Janine would come to play in our backyard/mini petting zoo! We had geese, a duck, and a rabbit at one point. Those were the days! Shana had a real live PONY in her yard so she had me beat! I really want to create a fun place for my son and his friends to make these types of memories in his backyard. When I heard that Tryazon was looking for hosts for a Bestway® Splash on the Grass Party I applied right away! I was beyond THRILLED to be notified that our family was selected!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDO5jBeOOhQIDJQjQie3vtgiYD8SE3k7VXvwDTnhVnwvmc3drzriF_-rpIA8b7hGV1NOSxtVKbymKKlVnB4tUVWK0SVeFznjLF-D8opxp0dG8hnfKxC5ccvYmIjWE4J27wpwvV8PJo6FDM/s1600/wnwallways.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="94" data-original-width="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDO5jBeOOhQIDJQjQie3vtgiYD8SE3k7VXvwDTnhVnwvmc3drzriF_-rpIA8b7hGV1NOSxtVKbymKKlVnB4tUVWK0SVeFznjLF-D8opxp0dG8hnfKxC5ccvYmIjWE4J27wpwvV8PJo6FDM/s1600/wnwallways.jpg" /></a>With the drought conditions in Southern California, we haven't really done much water play to cool off . In the picture above you can see that it is a barely filled backyard pool. We were mindful of <a href="https://www.sandiego.gov/public-utilities/sustainability/water-conservation/water-use-restrictions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">water conservation</a>. We still had fun even thought it wasn't filled to capacity.<br />
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It actually RAINED this past weekend and we have seen more rain here is San Diego than I can remember. I hope that the backyard dries a bit SOON so that we can get set up for a backyard party!<br />
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We received the pool that is in the picture as a birthday gift from my sister to my son. He is a summer baby so this was fitting. She is his favorite auntie and his God mother. We love her! Our kids had so much fun playing in that pool! This year they will have a bigger pool to splash around in!</div>
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This summer we are upgrading to an above ground pool that the kids <b>and </b>the grown ups can cool off in thanks to our friends at Tryazon and Bestway®! They will help us kick off the summer with a Splash on the Grass party! We were picked as one of 50 hosts.<br />
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I am counting the days until we get our very own Coleman Power Steel Swim Vista Series Pool!<br />
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I have a feeling we are going to LOVE it. I'll have to end this post for now as I have some party planning to take care of!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our NEXT Best Way Pool!<br />
Swim Vista Swimming Pool Set with Pump, Ladder & Cover</td></tr>
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I'll be sharing details of our Splash in the Grass party SOON! So please stay tuned!<br />
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<b>Disclosure</b>: As a selected party host, we will be receiving a Bestway® Splash on the Grass Party Pack provided at no charge.Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-25438253236297946712017-07-02T23:44:00.001-07:002017-07-02T23:44:31.700-07:00AFRICA ROCKS at the San Diego Zoo<a href="http://www.linqia.com/"><img style="background-image: url("http://linqia.ooh.li/disclosure/905879430.png"); background-repeat: no-repeat; border: none; display: inline-block; height: 50px; padding: 0; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://ooh.li/844d179" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo’s Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks</a> is a new exhibit that spotlights the biodiversity found on the African continent. Just in time for Summer 2017, SIX new habitats have been added! Rollout begins July 1st, 2017. The first to debut are the penguins of Cape Fynbos. Other habitats will open as animals become acclimated to their new homes. The latest information can be found at <a href="https://ooh.li/844d179" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">africarocks.sandiegozoo.org</a>.<br />
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Africa Rocks is the Zoo’s most ambitious exhibit project to date. The six habitats of Africa Rocks are Kopje, Ethiopian Highlands, Acacia Woodland, Madagascar Forest, West African Forest, and Cape Fynbos. <span style="text-align: start;">Naturally, the draw for many are the animals. But I am just as excited to see The African Garden. The Ethiopian Highlands area will present strange, startling, and beautiful plants, many that you may never have seen before.</span><br />
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<li><b>Kopje</b>
These boulder-strewn islands in grassland savanna are home for a variety of animals that live their lives among the rocks, including meerkats, hyraxes, and klipspringer antelope. </li>
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<li><b>Ethiopian Highlands</b>
This rugged mountain habitat is made up of craggy, granite peaks and plateaus. The unique species adapted to this environment include Hamadryas baboons, geladas, and Nubian ibex.</li>
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<li> <b>Acacia Woodland</b>
This open woodland habitat features shrubs and grasses among thorn-bearing acacia trees. Leopards prowl here, vervet monkeys chatter in large family groups, and a colorful bevy of birds flit and nest among the branches in a huge walk-through aviary</li>
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<li><b>Madagascar Forest</b>
Madagascar’s forests are among the world’s most distinctive, with dramatic limestone formations and spiny dry forest plants. This is home to species found nowhere else on Earth, including the extraordinary tree-leaping lemurs.</li>
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<li><b>West African Forest</b>
The dense, tropical forests of western Africa get up to 80 inches of rain each year, creating waterfalls, streams, and pools for fish and the dwarf crocodiles that eat them.</li>
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<li> <b>Cape Fynbos</b>
The fynbos along South Africa’s rocky coastline sets the stage for unusual species, including the weird and beautiful protea plants, small sharks that swim among the reefs, and the adorable, warm-weather African penguins.</li>
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We plan on making a visit to The San Diego Zoo and checking out Africa Rocks. We will be sure to share our adventures with you in a future blog post!</div>
Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-22782112275492431052017-04-06T17:35:00.000-07:002017-04-08T19:40:13.120-07:00Smile Worthy Family Moments<a href="http://www.linqia.com/"><img style="background-image: url("http://linqia.ooh.li/disclosure/152139571.png"); background-repeat: no-repeat; border: none; display: inline-block; height: 50px; padding: 0; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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There are days when all that I can manage are the simple things. I have been out of commission health wise and could only muster the bare minimum. When parents are under the weather it can be tough to take care of yourself let alone house and home. I have deadlines to meet, nightly homework, and juggling a schedule of activities... You know the drill. All I really want and need is to feel better. Just to be able to function without feeling lousy. The bottom line is that I can't just stay in bed to rest until I am 100% well. Life moves quickly and we need to keep up. The reality is there, so I must do what I gotta do. The importance of self-care is always top of mind for me. I try. But even with the best efforts, it happens: we get sick. Even still, I pick myself up and get through it. Luckily, keeping the kiddo in this house happy just takes the simple things. THANK goodness for that.<br />
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Once in a while I throw out the whole "don't play with your food" line that some parents give their children. I don't worry because he knows to wash his hands well, <b>especially</b> before eating. I like that he is a great story teller and lets his imagination run wild. It gives him the chance to lead our mealtime talks. It also gives me a moment to sit back and just listen.<br />
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Making egg salad sliders and letting him play with his plate was all it took. He made up stories while decorating his plate with bits of veggies and just a few <a href="https://ooh.li/cd24234" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Goldfish crackers</a>. Simple. We're good.<br />
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When I am not feeling well, I can STILL be present for the family. It isn't always easy, but we make it happen. When the kid is happy, I am happy. That peace of mind helps me to heal much faster. Thankfully, I am on the mend. Next week is Spring Break so I am ready for more smile worthy family moments. I am looking forward to our adventures!<br />
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If you are looking to find fun family ideas from Goldfish you can visit them on <a href="https://ooh.li/cd24234" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> and on <a href="https://ooh.li/5d7433c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a>.<br />
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<br />Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-81596078162164696722017-02-28T15:45:00.000-08:002017-02-28T23:05:55.657-08:00LYMBER Fitness App Helping ME with 2017 Self Care GoalsThis post is sponsored by Lymber, but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.<br />
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I am absolutely THRILLED with the opportunity to try out <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lymber/id1142297173" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lymber</a>. They are helping me with my self care goals for 2017! Fitness ranks high on my list! Also on that list: saving money, trying new things, and having FUN! There are so many classes that I can choose from. With the Lymber Fitness app I can save up to 75% off classes from the best studios in my area. ZERO Membership Fees. You pay only for what you use.<br />
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The Lymber app is FREE!<br />
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If you use my affiliate code: <b><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lymber/id1142297173" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CYNTHLYMB1-34</a></b> when you sign up, you will get $5.00 OFF of your first Lymber class! I've shared the Lymber video for a rundown on how the the program works.<br />
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I am both an Android and an iOS user but currently the app is only available for iOS (Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch). Pricing is dynamic: enjoy real-time, demand-based pricing for studios in your area. I love the concept of pay-as-you-go access!<br />
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I am already a big fan of hot yoga. There are so many other styles of yoga that I can explore using the app. I have been wanting to try pilates and possibly a spin or dance class too. They are ALL offered on Lymber. Please stay tuned for a recap post in the very near future! I can hardly wait to share my Lymber experience with you and let you know how my class goes. I hope that you'll join me!</div>
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See how it works:<br />
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Don't forget to sign up using the promo code...<br />
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lymber/id1142297173" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lymber Fitness</a> has given me a special coupon code to offer to my friends (yes YOU)! With my promo code you will get $5.00 off of your first Lymber class! Just use the code <b><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lymber/id1142297173" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CYNTHLYMB1-34</a></b><br />
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<b>Disclosure: </b>This post is sponsored. As a Lymber Affiliate, I received a credit towards a fitness class and a discount code to share with my readers. *I will earn a commission for class bookings resulting from the use of my Lymber affiliate discount code.Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-9099748550771231482017-02-24T20:30:00.000-08:002017-02-24T20:30:28.025-08:00Movie Inner Circle with Fandango, Flixter, and Rotten TomatoesI was just invited to join Movie Inner Circle which is an exclusive online community of movie lovers. Thank you for the invite Fandango, Flixter, and Rotten Tomatoes! As a member, I will share my opinions through surveys, polls and chat forums. I'll also get chances to win prizes in a monthly sweepstakes just by participating. Sounds good to me. I'm IN!<br />
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The call is out for <b>more </b>movies lovers. I've been asked if I would like to recommend up to 5 friends who, like me, loves movies. Let me know if you want me to forward your email to receive an invitation. You need to love movies, register (and be approved), and have an opinion (and be willing to share it). Once my referrals successfully complete the Movie Inner Circle registration process, I'll get an extra entry for the monthly sweepstakes. Let me know if you're in!<br />
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Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-78725018017090277682017-02-23T13:49:00.000-08:002017-02-24T20:25:40.678-08:00Try Products From Leading Brands For FREE via PINCHme<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://pmgi.go2cloud.org/SHEJ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FREE samples</a> from leading brands? Yes! Read on to see how to get yours! PINCHme FREE Sample Tuesday is 2/28 at 12Noon EST. Don't miss it!</div>
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<a href="http://pmgi.go2cloud.org/SHEJ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PINCHme</a> allows members discover and try free samples from the world’s leading brands! It’s 100% <a href="http://pmgi.go2cloud.org/SHEJ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FREE</a> (free products AND free shipping)! No credit card is required.</div>
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I just received my premium PINCHme blogger box from PINCHme.com. It is full of free products to review. My box included an assortment of past, present, and / or future samples featured on PINCHme.com. I wanted to share how YOU can get free samples too!</div>
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Every month, on Sample Tuesday, new free samples are released on PINCHme.com. Sample Tuesday is right around the corner! Mark your calendar for Tuesday 2/28 at 12Noon EST! Don’t miss your chance to claim free samples! Act quickly! In my experience, the demand is HUGE and samples are claimed FAST! You don't want to be left out!</div>
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;">How to get your FREE goodies from <a href="http://pmgi.go2cloud.org/SHEJ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PINCHme</a>:</span></b><br />
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1. Sign up for FREE at <b><span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://pmgi.go2cloud.org/SHEJ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://pmgi.go2cloud.org/SHEJ</a></span></b><br />
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2. Complete your profile to match you with relevant products.<br />
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3. Order free samples at 12 p.m. EST.<br />
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4. Share your feedback.<br />
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There is such a wide variety of samples. From beauty, snacks, baby, pet, personal care, cleaning products, and household items - there's something for everyone!</div>
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All they ask for is your honest feedback on the products. You have 30 days from when your product shipped to complete your feedback surveys.</div>
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It doesn’t stop at FREE samples. Members benefit from special partner offers, exclusive sweepstakes, product review opportunities, and other promotions.</div>
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<a href="http://pmgi.go2cloud.org/SHEJ" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_NEW"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPnN2wdsWlsyvAzbhrQTI5rK7trKUfhq9N8SwX6iJi6eQvwgvpSQv8sQbe322RrAVrG_J3jtD_ISONt3xzV6Q8qjHyPb_dcD-XlnWlTV646IugcP0JzkR5gu2YIEue5cQWduyhi7ABEhE/s640/13177183_10153830480303124_5152493678422342703_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My tips:<br />
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<li>Keep your profile updated! PINCHme works to match member profiles with Brand Partners' needs. It's a win-win.</li>
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<li>Mark your calendar! I've made the mistake of missing my share of Sample Tuesdays! Date AND time is of the essence. These great samples get claimed FAST!</li>
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<li>Don't forget to share your feedback.</li>
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<li>Get social with <a href="http://pmgi.go2cloud.org/SHEJ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PINCHme.com</a> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PINCHme" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.twitter.com/PINCHme" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="http://instagram.com/PINCHme" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> to stay "in-the-know"!</li>
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<li>Have fun!</li>
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<li>Tell a friend! </li>
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In case you were curious about some of the brands, I took pictures of what I got! I am thrilled with my goodies. <b>Hydralyte Electrolyte Tablets</b> (PERFECT to hydrate me after hot yoga)! <b>Essie</b> for a mani/pedi at home! <b>COVERGIRL</b> make-up. Anti-wrinkle cream from<b> POND'S</b>. <b>OLAY</b> body wash. Kitchen and laundry goods covered as well with <b>Scotch-Brite</b> and <b>SHOUT</b>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFqrCEnyM1Qzc5442IIN6IMKQiA2SKBwDWqRVwC3Ecs3bvfDgw4O3byMjfb23K-GcAU_4k8hZfPz8BIXS1OUUE_XmL88b66r59LHiIGTOFsLxXUySrr28gbPt_v0zhwAV7eNL681B-e07/s1600/1487971422847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFqrCEnyM1Qzc5442IIN6IMKQiA2SKBwDWqRVwC3Ecs3bvfDgw4O3byMjfb23K-GcAU_4k8hZfPz8BIXS1OUUE_XmL88b66r59LHiIGTOFsLxXUySrr28gbPt_v0zhwAV7eNL681B-e07/s640/1487971422847.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Disclosure</b>: I received free samples from PINCHme.com. The opinions expressed in this post are my own.</div>
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Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-15971656623059259332017-02-17T13:35:00.000-08:002017-02-23T00:57:19.517-08:00OREO Dunk Challenge: How Do YOU Dunk?<a href="http://www.linqia.com/"><img style="background-image: url("http://linqia.ooh.li/disclosure/598437835.png"); background-repeat: no-repeat; border: none; display: inline-block; height: 50px; padding: 0; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: red;">Official rules can be found here: <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://bit.ly/OREOSweepsRules&source=gmail&ust=1487746051981000&usg=AFQjCNG5rdcmji3UKMzFEzWzWWBUP8uQ9A" href="http://bit.ly/OREOSweepsRules" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank"><span class="m_-7340159056083282664gmail-m_-2513977478992259569gmail-m_7546006696436825481m_-5715764057788548505gmail-m_-755712978157894359gmail-il" style="font-size: 12.8px;">bit</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">.</span></span><span class="m_-7340159056083282664gmail-m_-2513977478992259569gmail-m_7546006696436825481m_-5715764057788548505gmail-m_-755712978157894359gmail-il" style="font-size: 12.8px;">ly</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">/OREOSweepsRules</span></span></a></span></b><br />
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I am excited to share that <a href="https://ooh.li/0cad085" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">OREO</a> is having a Dunk Challenge! For more details visit the <a href="https://ooh.li/0cad085" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#OREODUNKSWEEPSTAKES homepage</a>. It's fun and easy to enter! Just take a photo or video of yourself dunking an OREO® cookie in milk and post it to Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag: <a href="https://ooh.li/0cad085" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#OREODunkSweepstakes</a>.<br />
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40,000 lucky finalists will have a chance to win one (1) of five (5) VIP Grand Prize trips to a Celebrity Dunking Event in NYC or Los Angeles, plus $2,000! Post daily for more chances to win.<br />
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Visit your local <a href="https://ooh.li/e238069" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walmart</a> for <a href="https://ooh.li/0cad085" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">OREO</a> products and check out the in-store dunking events! Don't forget the milk!<br />
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<a href="https://ooh.li/e238069" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; white-space: nowrap;" target="_new"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxp3C59glaNLl9fmNKT5xZqpRPgA9m5BAV8GKSTV4TiJm5bta1pNP-PAyx7n4PQxjzIWYrVikaG3ZR8v1XQoCJIbY3EETHdSeuS_80n6c6Ws1-yJ0mXzurcrSlBPsXMq4vfVLt4uIKGvU/s640/1487657321205.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I met my first <a href="https://ooh.li/0cad085" rel="nofollow" target="_new">OREO</a> back in the 1970s. As a child I was a the type of dunker that would twist apart the two chocolate wafers and eat the sweet creme filling before dunking the rest in milk. I evolved in the 1980s and enjoyed the entire milk soaked cookie. We use our fingers - even though I have seen it done with a fork! Leaving the cookie is just long enough to get soft but not soggy is something that my 6 year old has mastered!<br />
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<a href="https://ooh.li/0cad085" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; white-space: nowrap;" target="_new"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQS3PkhggnmBq0GIA6SjZnyVhGV0gPEbfRpZz4CN67nCylXMOOSmfQipzAIa5gr29SaFufYC6Dd94yGOtnoimoxiRfRA2WFNVhXjBxYe4uE7yZj6H7WyYP1reKnxnFy7HqLPEcAhO5LhBP/s640/1487627499292.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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My mom gave me my first OREO and to be honest, I believe that it was she who bought my kiddo his first pack of OREO cookies! He loves to dunk his OREO in milk and takes his sweet time. I'm glad that he is careful and neat about it! Now with a a basketball, he is all about the SLAM DUNK! He learned how to at 5 years old! I love this kid. I could watch him dunk OREOS (or basketballs) all day, every day! After a couple of OREO cookies this kid must go outside to PLAY!<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BGnSVUfPLC3/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_new">My little baller practicing his slam dunk! About to graduate from his @officiallittletikes set! #basketball #fitfam #kids #play #proudmom #fitfluential #inspiringfitness #ffcheckin #playmatters #littletikes #sandiego #sports #backyardfun #playoutside #hoops #bball my #nba baby! #hoopdreams #dreambig #ImaginationsInMotion #familyfitness #boymom #23 @kingjames is his favorite NBA player #Striveforgreatness #dreambig #summerfun #Fiveyearold</a></div>
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A post shared by Cynthia Labrador (@lifebycynthia) on <time datetime="2016-06-13T23:55:11+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jun 13, 2016 at 4:55pm PDT</time><br />
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How do you dunk your OREO cookies?
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<a href="https://ooh.li/e238069" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_new"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXvL4BYo7WzYpg5BkmX5aZXSYBR-bUSx_U0rVt1DDgl1mmtsLJm4UOsUi6aZsLoZ1AbvKbTlUaxri9LMlIghtjGhOO9OOWq2WqvyKWnKCsTgWieHE184_ffnFTitO3XWZQ0BIMbnRrWJ1/s640/1487657751045.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_811800829"></span><span id="goog_811800830"></span><br />Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-33280604372566000042017-02-09T08:34:00.000-08:002017-02-22T22:50:39.983-08:00Spring 2017 Fashion Trend Report with Neiman Marcus San Diego <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpiIri16_VFwpTpBrj4tNdMooawiNlubqJG9WspH4q46kJmXyYP_RpqPvyX6gpNonVotwJV3v_VakP3j6OIzUmdOf-r1gjDz6l5BjbEUgOkvARxpgS4EmxARG4Nr27idCoRG_9FoJDVoff/s1600/NMSanDiego+Spring+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpiIri16_VFwpTpBrj4tNdMooawiNlubqJG9WspH4q46kJmXyYP_RpqPvyX6gpNonVotwJV3v_VakP3j6OIzUmdOf-r1gjDz6l5BjbEUgOkvARxpgS4EmxARG4Nr27idCoRG_9FoJDVoff/s640/NMSanDiego+Spring+17.jpg" width="596" /></a></div>
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Spring is in the air! It doesn't <i>feel</i> like Spring as it has been the coldest and rainiest weather that I've seen in quite a while here in San Diego - but Spring FASHION <b>is</b> upon us! Alex Yáñez, Fashion Stylist for Neiman Marcus, presented a preview of the top trends for the season. The media luncheon hosted by Neiman Marcus is one of my favorite events. It is always such a good time with NM to see what is in store with fashion and accessories. I love having the opportunity to lunch with fellow bloggers, to check out the gorgeous fashion, and to tell you all about my faves!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhUfUzIoBPiuRe61o1KgNbEhMMpAt3UW0Xapx-M9lyYScc5e3chb5_1dnVQPI98rUJSM_h9x6VJduR43ZBQYzF0_jMBFYS7RLld1ycMPFbc-QMYGhoDcWOl-JccQwDWlxPRaXPTmQJi9g/s1600/Spring+Trend+Event+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhUfUzIoBPiuRe61o1KgNbEhMMpAt3UW0Xapx-M9lyYScc5e3chb5_1dnVQPI98rUJSM_h9x6VJduR43ZBQYzF0_jMBFYS7RLld1ycMPFbc-QMYGhoDcWOl-JccQwDWlxPRaXPTmQJi9g/s640/Spring+Trend+Event+2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CGrhWdL3yUiKipWVHvE9SSHFeAGpsBQadK2EatUvozOp2DdlEotvE4altXFA5YzgIIW8h87IpiBGrC3Gbo6cpnXkpbcpskDfZR5UH3gMhooD7Ytx0drHnVvofhIHlstARNJykAC-raLf/s1600/Luncheon+Invitation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CGrhWdL3yUiKipWVHvE9SSHFeAGpsBQadK2EatUvozOp2DdlEotvE4altXFA5YzgIIW8h87IpiBGrC3Gbo6cpnXkpbcpskDfZR5UH3gMhooD7Ytx0drHnVvofhIHlstARNJykAC-raLf/s640/Luncheon+Invitation.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Ruffles & Flounces</b>: As seen on the runway. Frills! I am loving the ruffles.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKasyJd-MLnYYkRdgBDcRJQ4Lqrfz1ho8g7cndfJ_pJ4WFgEDWGIy5D4CKA1v9jpt08_perB9ET3RmpW86XA_NPl9a_mb6cmClEL_7Xy40ScmbS6MimKwe94ITKMuUKL4nVqgcKdzTcvmA/s1600/NMSpring2017+Ruffles+%2523NMEvents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKasyJd-MLnYYkRdgBDcRJQ4Lqrfz1ho8g7cndfJ_pJ4WFgEDWGIy5D4CKA1v9jpt08_perB9ET3RmpW86XA_NPl9a_mb6cmClEL_7Xy40ScmbS6MimKwe94ITKMuUKL4nVqgcKdzTcvmA/s640/NMSpring2017+Ruffles+%2523NMEvents.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<b>Stripes</b>: Vertical stripes, horizontal stripes, stripes on stripes, stripes paired with prints...STRIPES!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkeDb74WAf1aA0iQrzHBtL-hYmC7Qw9BOVgmnR-AFx6F-CplyWpz9b9htqCAiUT4Ts4TKzVCxVCG9GR5sj9k3GtsaOZznTijR7z5iWxehfa0BTtjtkeE0gaNf3XL5HbTZvEz0uWlmPoNxU/s1600/Spring+2017+Stripes+%2523NMEvents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkeDb74WAf1aA0iQrzHBtL-hYmC7Qw9BOVgmnR-AFx6F-CplyWpz9b9htqCAiUT4Ts4TKzVCxVCG9GR5sj9k3GtsaOZznTijR7z5iWxehfa0BTtjtkeE0gaNf3XL5HbTZvEz0uWlmPoNxU/s640/Spring+2017+Stripes+%2523NMEvents.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="text-align: left;">Peekaboo Shoulders</b><span style="text-align: left;">: Time to bare those shoulders. According to NM - show a little or a lot!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIPGyFBJ78GJLSEdm8paMFvzzcEVOPJeQiCKgOg2V-i506ZwPvNbr8ABeMd-lKuY8I30gPGDXw88xTeBso9v6RCux5wP0S7WiXPmKQgTbmDiectlxspGp2AQUJmcEeZpF-JcfsTBcLN0xm/s1600/NMSpring2017+Peekaboo+Shoulders+%2523NMEvents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIPGyFBJ78GJLSEdm8paMFvzzcEVOPJeQiCKgOg2V-i506ZwPvNbr8ABeMd-lKuY8I30gPGDXw88xTeBso9v6RCux5wP0S7WiXPmKQgTbmDiectlxspGp2AQUJmcEeZpF-JcfsTBcLN0xm/s640/NMSpring2017+Peekaboo+Shoulders+%2523NMEvents.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Peekaboo Shoulders (and Legs)</b></td></tr>
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<b>Neutrals</b>: My favorite! Whites, creams, khakis, olive... I adore the neutrals!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Neutrals</b></td></tr>
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<b>The Mini-Bag</b>: Big enough? The perfect size to hold <u>just</u> the necessities.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>The Mini Bag</b></td></tr>
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<b>Destroyed Denim</b>: This Spring you will see both gently frayed to totally tattered.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Destroyed Denim</td></tr>
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Disclosure: I was an invited guest to the Neiman Marcus Media Luncheon. All opinions are my own.Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-90080121240236830672017-01-26T21:43:00.000-08:002017-02-28T18:33:35.164-08:00T Rex Planet Traveling Dinosaur ShowWe have a little boy that loves dinosaurs. I have lost count on how many dinosaur toys and books that he owns. We have watched our fair share of dinosaur movies and television shows. I know so much dino trivia at this point! I was thrilled when a dinosaur show came to town and I am grateful for father and son time. That special time is great for the boys to bond and create memories. Not to mention the little bonus that I get with a bit of down time to myself. Sometimes I do get a little jealous of their fun but I encourage their special adventures. Father and son spending one on one is priceless. I hope to share more of their adventures on the blog. I really love the retelling of the day by son. His expressions are priceless and the happiness that just pours out of him makes me smile. I love that he is excited to tell me all about it. It doesn't hurt that his daddy is a videographer/photographer/editor, we get a highlight reel of all the fun times!<br />
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One of their father and son trips took them to T Rex Planet. T. REX Planet is a North American traveling Dinosaur show. The show made it's way to San Diego on January 14 - 15, 2017. We saw the television commercials and my son could not contain his excitement. He wanted to make sure that his daddy knew that he wanted to go. His hero came through and got tickets. They attended the show that was held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall. It was a hit.</div>
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He described it as AWESOME, THE BEST, COOL... Yes, all caps!</div>
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The cost of the event was $25 for kids and $20 for adults. Parking $13. Discounts are available for military families and senior citizens.</div>
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This event simulates what it would be like to experience the Jurassic, Triassic, and Cretaceous periods first hand. According to my son, the dinosaurs looked real. He said that it wasn't scary for him (he is six years old). He did say that younger kids may be frightened and that he did see a little one cry because they were scared.</div>
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There were items for sale so we did end up adding to the collection at home. If you have a dino loving kid this show is for them!</div>
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Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-54425278111665440942017-01-10T11:48:00.000-08:002017-02-24T19:25:03.119-08:00Rainy Days In San DiegoRainy days in San Diego do exist! I am excited for the new year and can hardly believe that we are already well into the first month of 2017. So far, January has had more rainy days than usual. I don't mind a bit. The grass is getting greener! Another bonus: San Diegans have been skipping their trips to our nearby lake! I have to admit that I am not a fan of crowds or searching for parking spots.<br />
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I braved the rain and headed out to the lake for some fresh air and exercise. I found the area deserted. There were a handful of die hard fitness and outdoor enthusiasts out, but not many. It was a quiet morning and I relished the solitude.<br />
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Sometimes it can be tough to tune out all of the noise and find a quiet place to reflect. I am glad that the lake was deserted. The only sounds: nature! I ran into a few feathered companions who greeted me as I took a hike around the lake. It was cold (by San Diego standards) and wet, but I didn't end up drenched. I am thankful that the sun took a break to make way for the clouds!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miramar Lake, San Diego CA<br />
Deserted trails, waterfowl, and breaking in my new hiking shoes.</td></tr>
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Hopefully once the weather clears I will still head out and enjoy San Diego more than I have in the past. I am an admitted home body and haven't cared to venture out much. I love being at home as much as I can. Sounds boring. I guess that I'm on the boring side! I'll brave the crowds more often this year. I'll be more patient with traffic and parking issues. I'll play tourist along with the many other tourists visiting San Diego. Adventures await.Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-57626473629906755552016-11-22T21:00:00.000-08:002016-11-23T22:42:56.676-08:00Creating New Family Traditions: Baking With My Boy<a href="http://www.linqia.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.linqia.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.linqia.com/"><img style="background-image: url("http://linqia.ooh.li/disclosure/993021831.png"); background-repeat: no-repeat; border: none; display: inline-block; height: 50px; padding: 0; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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Thank goodness for Thanksgiving break. My little guy got sick right before his break and missed a couple of days of school. We have a little bit of school work to make up but I am so glad that he is feeling much better now and that he is very excited for the holidays. I myself have been a bit run down, but I too am looking forward to some quality family time. Tonight was a GREAT night. With the help of <a href="https://ooh.li/163f3f0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Betty Crocker Cookie Mix</a>, my little boy baked cookies for <b>me </b>instead of the other way around!<br />
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Our plan was to bake a batch (or two) of cookies then set up our Christmas Tree. Our son has been asking relentlessly to set up and decorate our tree! He fell asleep before the <a href="https://ooh.li/163f3f0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cookies</a> cooled... so we will save the decorations for tomorrow!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This tuckered out child baked his first batch of cookies.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.linqia.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Before I share our baking experience, I must ask: What are your all time <a href="https://ooh.li/163f3f0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">favorite cookies</a>? Or are you like me and have an appreciation for any and all cookies? As long as it is fresh from the oven, I'm in! To be honest, we don't often bake sweets so this was an extra special treat for my little guy! It was fun and super easy.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Oatmeal for Mommy, Chocolate Chip for the Kid, Peanut Butter for Daddy, and Sugar Cookie for Santa" ~ The Kiddo</td></tr>
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The most recent school project that my son worked on was about sharing Thanksgiving traditions. He knows that my sister, my mom, and I all help each other to prepare our Thanksgiving meal. He wanted to help out by more than just setting the table this year. He and I have cooked together many times so his request didn't surprise me. We do our Turkey Day in a bit of a pot luck style. Each of us is takes on a dish (along with sides). My little guy is on board for cookies. I absolutely LOVE that he wants to be involved.<br />
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With the help of <a href="https://ooh.li/163f3f0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Betty Crocker</a> (and some from mom), this kid is set. He read the directions out loud and then took off running. I am impressed that this kid can crack an egg into a mixing bowl without getting any eggshell in there!<br />
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What started off as his desire to help turned into a total take over of the process. I did not mind at all. I supervised (a little) while he ran the show! I like watching cooking shows, especially when the show is put on by my kid! He did a great job. I didn't bake my first batch of cookies until I was about 10 years old. This guy is 6.<br />
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I would say that from start to finish it was a total success. We made a run to our local <a href="https://ooh.li/163f3f0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walmart</a> store to scope out the flavors. There were so many choices! We picked out our favorites. I am now wishing that I tried some of the other flavors. Gingerbread and Pumpkin Spice! Doesn't that sound good? I talked myself out of it because if my child didn't go for the flavors, then I would have been forced to eat the entire batch all by myself. Maybe that could be a good thing! I'll go back for some!<br />
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Update: We got the decorations on the tree the following day. All is well and we are ready! From our family to yours, we wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful Holiday season with your loved ones! Make those memories and create your traditions!<br />
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A photo posted by Gerald Labrador (@geraldlabrador) on <time datetime="2016-11-24T03:47:41+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 23, 2016 at 7:47pm PST</time></div>
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Your turn! I would love to know how you celebrate your family traditions. Share!
Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-15596547195711170332016-11-21T17:09:00.000-08:002016-11-24T01:19:23.642-08:00Celebrating Universal Children's Day With IKEA San Diego, Let's Play!My favorite people in the world are children. I admire their honest, curious, and resilient nature. I am soaking up every moment of childhood with our only child. My favorite thing to do is to watch our boy play and enjoy life. I wish this for all parents and children. Every child should have a life filled with play.<br />
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We attended a blogger event at IKEA San Diego and I wanted to share our experience. First off, my son and I absolutely LOVE when we have the opportunity to attend events like this together so my thanks go out to team IKEA and Kylie @Made by a Princess for including the kiddos.<br />
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The event was appropriately held on Universal Children's Day, Sunday, November 20, 2016. We gathered with blogger families at IKEA San Diego 2149 Fenton Parkway San Diego, CA 92108.<br />
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We got to play! At the event we learned about the new IKEA Good Cause Campaign "Let's Play for Change". The campaign focuses on children's right to play and develop. We fully support our child and encourage play in his life! It saddens me that there are many children in the world that are not afforded the opportunity to simply play in an environment that is safe. It is heartbreaking. From children with disabilities that may feel left out, children that are struggling with poverty, or those living in nations in conflict - it is a terrible plight for the youngest, most innocent people of our world. I was happy to learn that the IKEA Foundation is seeking to help organizations that are focused on the little ones in need.<br />
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Here is how we can help when we shop at IKEA from November 20 - December 24, 2016:<br />
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For every toy, play furniture item, or children's book sold, the IKEA Foundation will donate $1. Funds raised will support children's right to play and develop. Some soft toys are only $.99, they <b>still </b>qualify, $1 will go to the campaign! Organizations that benefit include: Save the Children, UNICEF, War Child, Special Olympics, Handicap International, and Room To Read.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELQiCBJDr4oE0iUOFIl-nPTZfBohFGN-KVOw_VI8Os_Y2rOc6_y0X08RmBBxnvw2CzMxuSBS_uJO08XNDNObQtcdC7RryuW-WI_Xo-pd9y93NP15RWAxCXyWIexhOaSSQ0RXiR_pPXXwA/s1600/IKEA+TOYS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELQiCBJDr4oE0iUOFIl-nPTZfBohFGN-KVOw_VI8Os_Y2rOc6_y0X08RmBBxnvw2CzMxuSBS_uJO08XNDNObQtcdC7RryuW-WI_Xo-pd9y93NP15RWAxCXyWIexhOaSSQ0RXiR_pPXXwA/s1600/IKEA+TOYS.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing with the Garcia Boys! Blogger Buddies!</td></tr>
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In countries from all around the world, children were invited to a <a href="http://www.ikea.com/ms/en_US/good-cause-campaign/soft-toys-for-education/kids-design-for-good-cause/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">drawing competition</a> in which the winning designs were chosen for a special limited soft toys collection. My son is a budding artist and is thinking of entering in the future!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblTHdNEyIoc3QelfgNxtmDtIACWkDmD-gOcx8miWJ0gCJxu1DGM6xH7JiWLJ_QcGEnCPxVc7W3lhYK5IoX0wsLqxhxOQIcWGM9p2IrUy0fLi61rjk3o-RKTLsv2d0AxBV1-ZWWjzxoiD9/s1600/IKEA+SOFT+TOYS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblTHdNEyIoc3QelfgNxtmDtIACWkDmD-gOcx8miWJ0gCJxu1DGM6xH7JiWLJ_QcGEnCPxVc7W3lhYK5IoX0wsLqxhxOQIcWGM9p2IrUy0fLi61rjk3o-RKTLsv2d0AxBV1-ZWWjzxoiD9/s640/IKEA+SOFT+TOYS.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These soft toys were designed by children!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoHXOkzif04rcF4WhO-CHRt8xT_XMfbKI_xUyNtcShulalhqlbepDUKVfSBmegZmY5KjgVK-zH5nUwMSP5T_o0fO6EPE7wrYhwTqOrqvd8-iG9ohE6yO6jdLA0BrxrBidzFQKxc4msP6Ba/s1600/IKEA+In+Store+Fun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoHXOkzif04rcF4WhO-CHRt8xT_XMfbKI_xUyNtcShulalhqlbepDUKVfSBmegZmY5KjgVK-zH5nUwMSP5T_o0fO6EPE7wrYhwTqOrqvd8-iG9ohE6yO6jdLA0BrxrBidzFQKxc4msP6Ba/s1600/IKEA+In+Store+Fun.jpg" /></a></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOoPdYq-jGkz9FAxQEVJackZ4jVbwZtLsibzjBZzhldUTzFqm7reXbiZpK4wW8DHb8Q7GP0QupQnfyhMS7w5lpaAUo7NlQerm_9OC5b_j40UYh8G_qus9LuEbq3S6ZBStiwCgwg3ImXGw/s1600/IKEA+PRESENTATION.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOoPdYq-jGkz9FAxQEVJackZ4jVbwZtLsibzjBZzhldUTzFqm7reXbiZpK4wW8DHb8Q7GP0QupQnfyhMS7w5lpaAUo7NlQerm_9OC5b_j40UYh8G_qus9LuEbq3S6ZBStiwCgwg3ImXGw/s1600/IKEA+PRESENTATION.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">IKEA Blogger Breakfast</td></tr>
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The 6 children’s rights groups that will receive funds are organizations that support children affected by disabilities, the Syrian conflict, unsafe migration and poverty. To learn more visit <a href="https://www.ikeafoundation.org/campaigns/lets-play-for-change/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IKEA Foundation</a> and please watch the video below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAIMXppNpwS6boQdwHOYmRKrLBvnd3cYG8PCywuHR6wALCtjszlznpFhNc2wzhcHe_u1OPHk4ZUWLcyY_DWOiy1InNciIljjffGlvkU38pVbjwd8JuGNakCMoNndBg3Cum42Bb1ftkMFz/s1600/Let%2527sPlayForChange.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAIMXppNpwS6boQdwHOYmRKrLBvnd3cYG8PCywuHR6wALCtjszlznpFhNc2wzhcHe_u1OPHk4ZUWLcyY_DWOiy1InNciIljjffGlvkU38pVbjwd8JuGNakCMoNndBg3Cum42Bb1ftkMFz/s640/Let%2527sPlayForChange.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="vippy-video" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/VideoObject" style="height: 360px; position: relative; width: 640px;">
<object class="vippy-video-object" data="https://vippy.co/play/flash/watch/dmlkZW8vODYxMS9wbGF5ZXIvNjk1" height="360" id="N70Ct4dcmYUPxjzi2fLgdH9N1asjt6CqH6Hkm54X_8611" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640"><param name="player" value="https://vippy.co/play/flash/watch/dmlkZW8vODYxMS9wbGF5ZXIvNjk1" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="wmode" value="direct" /><param name="movie" value="https://vippy.co/play/flash/watch/dmlkZW8vODYxMS9wbGF5ZXIvNjk1" /><video style="position: absolute; top: 0px; left: 0px;" class="vippy-video-object" width="640" height="360" preload="none" controls="controls" poster="https://vippy.co/play/image/dmlkZW8vODYxMS9wbGF5ZXIvNjk1"><source src="https://vippy.co/play/mobile/watch/dmlkZW8vODYxMS9wbGF5ZXIvNjk1" /></video></object><br />
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<b>Disclosure</b>: We attended the IKEA Blogger Breakfast as invited guests. We enjoyed a hosted breakfast and received a gift bag for our participation. All opinions are my own.
Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-14593593692788489802016-11-20T13:21:00.000-08:002016-11-23T16:31:34.750-08:00Thanksgiving Weekend: Sing Saturday At AMC TheatersIllumination Entertainment, Universal Pictures and AMC Theatres announced a Thanksgiving weekend event for audiences of all ages: “<a href="http://www.singsaturday.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sing Saturday</a>,” ‘Sing Saturday’ marks the biggest advance-screening program in the history of Universal Pictures. <a href="http://www.singmovie.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sing</a> officially arrives in theaters on December 21, 2016, but you will have the opportunity to see it this weekend!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQOt6klHGtgNDYUxIRce6794s2kTviNIC9MNI-zGXJwlUxkYBowwhiEyNI_SVydx-78uqRyyg2FQE6q0CBGA2qAj8_TLvzK-VLjGIAKNZagCHqV_7_WbVGaHBFlJi-vXxE_Bz12hlSEuy/s1600/SING+SATURDAY.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQOt6klHGtgNDYUxIRce6794s2kTviNIC9MNI-zGXJwlUxkYBowwhiEyNI_SVydx-78uqRyyg2FQE6q0CBGA2qAj8_TLvzK-VLjGIAKNZagCHqV_7_WbVGaHBFlJi-vXxE_Bz12hlSEuy/s640/SING+SATURDAY.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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FREE nationwide screenings on Saturday, November 26th at 10am! Click <span style="color: #990000;"><b><a href="http://theaters.singsaturday.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_new">here</a> </b></span>for a list of participating theaters.<br />
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Important details:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis</li>
<li>At least 200 free tickets available at each theater location</li>
<li>Free tickets available at the box office starting at 9:00 AM</li>
<li>Doors will open at 9:00 AM</li>
</ul>
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Check out the official trailer!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Zvjmt4pwtdg" width="640"></iframe></center>
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The film stars Academy Award ® winners Matthew McConaughey and Reese Witherspoon,
alongside Seth MacFarlane, Scarlett Johansson, John C. Reilly, Taron Egerton and Grammy Award-
nominated Tori Kelly.
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Who's in? Watch the trailer and comment with one of your favorite songs! There are a lot!Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904337926127004352.post-91308355478127108462016-11-15T00:00:00.000-08:002016-11-16T12:53:39.497-08:00Comfort Food, Filipino Style! Kare Kare (Oxtail Stew) + GIVEAWAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCRhyrULqA0zHBqNmguWCOKr_2CkBZlwmcPeeqPLUYsnZ2Bwk5cqgiHHbp4vW8veJQHmqUX2rijTT-uiePln6LwHj0TWNYQaUbwHvpa-liN7LDuiXh0pS88n3dyIijF1lEPRLtj7CsB5k/s1600/Disclosure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="65" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCRhyrULqA0zHBqNmguWCOKr_2CkBZlwmcPeeqPLUYsnZ2Bwk5cqgiHHbp4vW8veJQHmqUX2rijTT-uiePln6LwHj0TWNYQaUbwHvpa-liN7LDuiXh0pS88n3dyIijF1lEPRLtj7CsB5k/s400/Disclosure.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My fondest food memories come from what my mom prepared for us in the "big pot". When I was a child and saw the biggest pot that we owned on the stove, I KNEW that I would be having one of my favorite foods at meal time! Thinking back, my favorite comfort foods (Filipino food that is) always came from that large pot on the stove. Kare kare, adobo, and nilaga to name a few!<br />
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My favorite pot. Fond memories for sure! I brought out the "big pot" to cook for my little family of three! The other day our 6 year old son asked me to make kare kare, one of my favorite Filipino dishes from my childhood. First off, kare kare is a savory peanut sauce based stew. I was elated when my son asked me to make some.</div>
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World Kitchen sent me their REVERE 10 Piece Cookware set AND want to give one of my blog friends the chance to win a 2-piece frying pan set. I will list the giveaway information below.
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There are many ways to make kare kare and I've seen it made with varied meats. I am a fan of good old oxtail. Some folks add tripe, but I have never been a fan so I just skip it. Veggies do get loaded into my version. I can't always find the "right" beans (sitaw) but I make do with what is available.</div>
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I wish that I could say that I had an exact recipe to share with you! They simply don't exist in my world when it comes to Filipino dishes. I have asked <b>many</b> a Filipino elder to share their recipes. ALWAYS the same reply... add: this, that, and the other then cook until it's done. Cryptic. HOW MUCH of each ingredient? Measurements? For how long? At what temperature? Forget about it! I've learned through trial and error and now I just wing it to too. You'll "just know", they say. My suggestion: find a recipe online, follow it loosely and make it your own. They do sell flavoring packets for kare kare, but to me it just isn't the same!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVABvHpxlauWriRd-6oNqwW7eymKrHRvxF96gh8bQ_OTh7uVS_l1sxRJSac1My_bdpSzhUMOiuNyKFh-dj1A9u95COd6f_jxD3yFGZtXGIPCh83kfRvG9oyy3dKFfLp9sNhpS7-rZGm6I/s1600/KARE+KARE+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVABvHpxlauWriRd-6oNqwW7eymKrHRvxF96gh8bQ_OTh7uVS_l1sxRJSac1My_bdpSzhUMOiuNyKFh-dj1A9u95COd6f_jxD3yFGZtXGIPCh83kfRvG9oyy3dKFfLp9sNhpS7-rZGm6I/s640/KARE+KARE+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6.5-quart stock pot with lid</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYm1a3qL2DrkwZfMgKHyLTHKAP_KzcEXQE55pC1hR-xvE01rOxEX7ytDdWUrX4GtDWgbo_ygfBsG4XV1JJ8QliQG_8wPGuFi6RLsRecpV34TulGoXChR3N4I-mnWhaT0g9fA7cjT_k2vMQ/s1600/tenderize+oxtail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYm1a3qL2DrkwZfMgKHyLTHKAP_KzcEXQE55pC1hR-xvE01rOxEX7ytDdWUrX4GtDWgbo_ygfBsG4XV1JJ8QliQG_8wPGuFi6RLsRecpV34TulGoXChR3N4I-mnWhaT0g9fA7cjT_k2vMQ/s1600/tenderize+oxtail.jpg" /></a></div>
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Tenderizing the oxtail takes time, but it is worth it. I've tried methods to rush the process but have found that the way that Mom used to do it is best! Take the time to build this dish with love! Look closely below and you can see the Quick Measure Marks inside the pot! Cool right?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQstZidTC1cmbykKcIuf7RzrdywukSF8RWlG4v9aYVW9P7llMkIOdGQMGAkyjllcJR90Tsrwuy_TiSiCwewgftGL7WmmN6Rgha6oYiTpwUJsiZPQOjnRGbAzJOT3rcpwpxVPWCNqqFLG01/s1600/kare+kare+simmer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQstZidTC1cmbykKcIuf7RzrdywukSF8RWlG4v9aYVW9P7llMkIOdGQMGAkyjllcJR90Tsrwuy_TiSiCwewgftGL7WmmN6Rgha6oYiTpwUJsiZPQOjnRGbAzJOT3rcpwpxVPWCNqqFLG01/s1600/kare+kare+simmer.jpg" /></a></div>
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While the oxtail continues to tenderize, I prep the veggies and saute them a bit. You can easily skip this step, but I don't.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHV1gQ7mZFl3MT8YJ_GyxckxBDDVMrsbePTF0-8RcEUkiFDcKJz9qizJJ1eTej3lz5RFdJmYOLeGnmk0w9U6ozoQ1aIMH7MGtJMqI_KxSZsy-lvYwMJpU5OcZSg44AxbNmQXnVGGaepff/s1600/saute+veggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHV1gQ7mZFl3MT8YJ_GyxckxBDDVMrsbePTF0-8RcEUkiFDcKJz9qizJJ1eTej3lz5RFdJmYOLeGnmk0w9U6ozoQ1aIMH7MGtJMqI_KxSZsy-lvYwMJpU5OcZSg44AxbNmQXnVGGaepff/s1600/saute+veggies.jpg" /></a></div>
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BM2CtgoBdrP/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">When the Mrs. makes one of your favorites. "Kare Kare" filipino oxtail stew in peanut buttery sauce. Don't forget the bagoong. #filipinofood #karekare</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A photo posted by Gerald Labrador (@geraldlabrador) on <time datetime="2016-11-15T20:35:39+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 15, 2016 at 12:35pm PST</time></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script></center>
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<b>About REVERE</b><br />
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Legendary, reliable and long lasting REVERE cookware delivers more than 130 years of expertise and the freedom to cook with confidence. With a nod to the famous line that dates back to 1930s, the Copper Confidence Core™ cookware helps heat quicker and more evenly, heating up to 50 percent faster than hard-to-handle heavier gauge cookware. The new REVERE cookware also features the patent pending Nest & Protect™ interlocking handles. Pots and pans store efficiently, seemingly floating above each other, without touching or scratching the interior or exterior surfaces.</div>
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<b>The 10 Piece Stainless Steel Set (MSRP $229) includes the following</b>:</div>
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<li> 8-inch fry pan</li>
</ul>
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<li>10-inch fry pan</li>
</ul>
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<li>2-quart sauce pan with lid</li>
</ul>
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<li>3-quart sauce pan with lid</li>
</ul>
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<li>6.5-quart stock pot with lid</li>
</ul>
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<li>3-quart sauté pan with lid</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fWHwEqSAYMa-PLf59lOtcpa1wVQnlH2UOZXqhoErqyGTxbgOMOqpcvHegD7XLBhYvRL0NF6BlarZSKbK6vr2HbFz1KMzTprXHUxYuswkPA2JJLRB4pHSfBW7gfg7wUQ-MRxBYu6-EZyg/s1600/revere10piece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fWHwEqSAYMa-PLf59lOtcpa1wVQnlH2UOZXqhoErqyGTxbgOMOqpcvHegD7XLBhYvRL0NF6BlarZSKbK6vr2HbFz1KMzTprXHUxYuswkPA2JJLRB4pHSfBW7gfg7wUQ-MRxBYu6-EZyg/s1600/revere10piece.jpg" /></a></div>
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There are so MANY features to fall in love with! I am most impressed with <b>Nest & Protect™</b> – The interlocking handles elevate pans for scratch-free, space saving storage!</div>
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<b>Features</b>:</div>
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<li>Copper Confidence Core™ – Aluminum encapsulated stainless steel base features a copper disc at the center for quicker and more even heating to help cook foods up to 50 percent faster than heavy gauge pans</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Nest & Protect™ – Innovative interlocking handles elevate pans for scratch-free, space saving storage (patent pending design also compatible between stainless steel and aluminum)</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Quick Measure Marks – Laser-engraved easy reference measurement marks included in sauce pans, stock pots and Dutch ovens</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Stay Cool Handles – Dual-riveted stainless steel and phenolic handles stay cool for maximum comfort and safety</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Classic Stainless Steel – Resists discoloration, does not react with food or alter flavors</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Cooktop Compatibility – Compatible with all cooktop surfaces, including induction</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Tempered Glass Dome Lids – Lock in heat and moisture and make checking cooking status quick and easy</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Interchangeable Lids for All Vessels – Compatible between both stainless steel and aluminum; Sauté Pan, Dutch Oven, Stock Pot and 10” Fry Pan can share the same lid</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Oven Safe – Up to 350 degrees; Dutch Oven and Braising Pans up to 500 degrees without lid</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Drip-Free Pouring Rims – Transfer liquids or food without making a mess</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Dishwasher safe – For effortless clean-up</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Limited Lifetime Warranty</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Enter to WIN: <a href="http://www.shopworldkitchen.com/copper-confidence-core-2-pc-stainless-steel-stainless-steel-medium-frying-pan-starter-set/1123158.html#start=24" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">REVERE® Copper Confidence Core™ 2-pc Stainless Steel Medium Frying Pan Starter Set</a> using the Rafflecopter widget. Good luck! Giveaway open to U.S. Residents 18+ and ends 11/21/16.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYdgsKot94ks5ASY3AnIuWTY5VXtGL2kB_TMPTkmCr9IGm-FcKaUfsO1GKuV1AHygqw2h_4om24gxGmFldknR7EuOpahwrq5CCjub1rV316aM4fpiONPKNOOxH7yUTXBCvrdphuiB1qMa/s1600/rev_stainless_steel_2pc_medium_frying_pan_starter_set_1123158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYdgsKot94ks5ASY3AnIuWTY5VXtGL2kB_TMPTkmCr9IGm-FcKaUfsO1GKuV1AHygqw2h_4om24gxGmFldknR7EuOpahwrq5CCjub1rV316aM4fpiONPKNOOxH7yUTXBCvrdphuiB1qMa/s400/rev_stainless_steel_2pc_medium_frying_pan_starter_set_1123158.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="176a44b224" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/176a44b224/" id="rcwidget_ycun2nzv" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script></center>
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Get social with REVERECookware!</div>
</div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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<div>
Website: <a href="http://www.worldkitchen.com/en/revere" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.worldkitchen.com/en/revere</a></div>
<div>
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RevereCookware" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/RevereCookware</a></div>
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Twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/WorldKitchenLLC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.twitter.com/WorldKitchenLLC</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
For more GIVEAWAYS from other bloggers, I suggest visiting <a href="http://www.runningwithsdmom.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Running with SD Mom</a> and <a href="http://ericafinds.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Erica Finds</a>! They host a <b>Wednesday GIVEAWAY Roundup</b> and you can enter to #WinAllThePrizes!</div>
Life by Cynthiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211273296866679970noreply@blogger.com40