tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71069579808167000122024-03-13T13:59:06.050-04:00Jasmine H. DuffyJasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.comBlogger979125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-73203386969112238742017-09-27T21:23:00.000-04:002017-09-27T21:23:24.294-04:00What I'm Watching.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fall has always been my most favorite time of year! I love that it represents a new school year, it's my birthday, it's Javi's birthday, the weather gets cooler (sometimes), I get to start wearing scarves and boots (not yet this year...), there are so many fun outdoor activities during Fall.... but the number one reason I love Fall is because new seasons of shows start!<i> I get really into it. </i></div>
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Here's what I plan to watch:</div>
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Monday:</div>
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The Big Bang Theory - I sort of can't believe it's been 10 seasons of this show! But I still love it and at this point, need to see it until the end. Plus I want to know if Amy says "yes"!</div>
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Young Sheldon - We watched this the other night and it was cute! I like that Jim Parsons narrates the show and thought the actor who plays the younger version of Sheldon does well. We'll continue to watch!</div>
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Kevin Can Wait - I never watched this last year BUT when I found out Leah Remini joined as a full-time cast member, I was intrigued. So I went back and watched a few episodes. I haven't watched the first episode but I plan to. I love them together. King of Queens is one of my favorite shows ever.</div>
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The Good Doctor - I loved this. Every time I see him I think of Norman Bates -- but I thought this show was really well done. I'm excited to see where they take it.</div>
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Tuesday:</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PbWjmhPT7Nk/WcxGOyGuwAI/AAAAAAABEtI/puU2SdNu4cQQW2Y_d_NVEj4nlVArjTmIgCLcBGAs/s1600/tuesdayshows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="152" data-original-width="875" height="110" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PbWjmhPT7Nk/WcxGOyGuwAI/AAAAAAABEtI/puU2SdNu4cQQW2Y_d_NVEj4nlVArjTmIgCLcBGAs/s640/tuesdayshows.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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This Is Us - This show makes me so sad and then happy and then depressed and then hopeful. Pretty much every emotion is felt while watching. I didn't watch last night's episode yet -- but this weekend, I'm all about it.</div>
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The Mick - So funny! We watched all of last season and it's a show that we literally laugh until we cry.</div>
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The Middle - I just think this show is amazingly funny. I'm pretty sure I haven't missed an episode... ever!</div>
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The Mayor - We just watched this and loved it! ABC on Demand has a sneak preview before the show starts in October and it was well worth watching (if you like sitcoms).</div>
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Wednesday:</div>
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The Good Place - I love Kristen Bell! This show is a pretty neat concept and I'd like to know how they're going to approach season 2. </div>
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Riverdale - I never read the comics but I really like this show. I binge-watched the first season on Netflix over summer break and I can't wait for this to start.</div>
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Seal Team - David Boreanaz and Max Thieroit?! So excited! Sean thinks it looks a bit too political/propagandish but I think it looks good!</div>
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Thursday:</div>
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Will & Grace - I mean... come on! I have to watch to see what this is going to be like. It was one of my favorite shows back in the 90s (ha!).</div>
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How To Get Away With Murder & Scandal - These are shows I watch with friends and they are such fun soap dramas to watch. I highly recommend them.</div>
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S.W.A.T. - I hope this is good! I mean he left Criminal Minds for it (which is why I no longer will watch Criminal Minds -- how do they always lose characters and then act like it's the same?!). It looks decent so I'll give it a try.</div>
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I don't typically watch anything Friday-Sunday. So that gives us plenty of time to catch up On Demand over the weekends. </div>
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In addition to all these -- I did recently just finish a whole bunch of shows -- in anticipation of all these ones starting up!</div>
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What are you watching?!</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-63518621988847595892017-09-26T21:35:00.001-04:002017-09-26T21:45:54.771-04:00Blue is the new white.<div style="text-align: justify;">
When Sean and I first started looking for a house, back in 2013, I wanted a very specific style of house: a white one, with black shutters and a red door. I was told over and over again that I was being too specific but the very first house we found was a white house, with black shutters and red door and it was the house we bought. But it's been a few years and this 1950s house was looking a bit tattered and torn. (We're still trying to wrap our heads around this whole homeownership thing.) We were told when we moved in that we'd need a new roof right away -- well, it turned out to be okay for the last 4 years but it was definitely time to improve. The bushes out front were becoming unruly, no matter how we tried to tame them and the overall look of the outside had been neglected because we tried to focus on the inside. Well the outside look matters! So this summer, we paid a bit of attention to it.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qNfB7Flp2cs/WcrrSmxHqbI/AAAAAAABEoA/pZGKXu9ZKtsyWDQKEi3F_ZrQocr-ap6-QCLcBGAs/s1600/WhiteHouse.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="875" height="478" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qNfB7Flp2cs/WcrrSmxHqbI/AAAAAAABEoA/pZGKXu9ZKtsyWDQKEi3F_ZrQocr-ap6-QCLcBGAs/s640/WhiteHouse.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's definitely a change!</div>
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We started off by removing the overgrown bushes, then had the roof redone, the screen porch redone and lastly the house was painted. We decided on Admiral Blue (Benjamin Moore) because we've been toying with the idea of moving and all the houses we saw and liked were blue. We figured why not make this house all we wanted it to be rather than uprooting ourselves while searching for something we can create here at home. We still need to paint the front door -- though we got a nice clear glass door that really opens up the look -- plant some landscaping and probably get some shutters though that's still debatable. And we're in no rush... the neighbors must love us. :)</div>
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We chose to close off the bottom part of the screen porch for safety reasons. Javi (and the cats) were running full force into the lower screens and I was so worried Javi would fall right through! I think it looks so much better this way and I love the lattice because you can't see our lawn stuff from the street. I mean, no one wants to look at that...</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-prXTs43dLsw/Wcr3Z9I7OUI/AAAAAAABEos/iztkBNEAyW0JNt2kw1-xAjKmKJPbWTxdACLcBGAs/s1600/UndertheDeck.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="875" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-prXTs43dLsw/Wcr3Z9I7OUI/AAAAAAABEos/iztkBNEAyW0JNt2kw1-xAjKmKJPbWTxdACLcBGAs/s640/UndertheDeck.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next we paid some attention to the weeds under the front deck. I say "we" super loosely because I had nothing to do with this at all but I love the way it looks now. :) It's a whole lot neater, at least!</div>
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We also paid a bit of attention to the left side of the house. This area known as the jungle was ridiculous with weeds and overgrown plants. We had it all chopped down and removed (just like we have every year though it's just grown back in the past), but this time we had new "loam" (had no idea that was a fancy word for dirt) delivered and then tried our hands at grass seed. I'm now a professional grass seeder. </div>
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:) I'm not quitting my day job or anything to become a landscaper but it's a vast improvement! At least now, we can walk all the way around the house -- I heard that's important in case of emergency!</div>
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In the backyard, we collapsed our unused septic tank so that the yard could be flattened. It's hard to tell in the photo below just how high the hill was and how big of a hump we were dealing with-- but it was silly and unnecessary. We lost our fire pit in the process since that was positioned right on top of the unused septic tank. We definitely need to buy more loam and plant more seed because a lot of it didn't take. But that seems like a problem for future Sean and future Jasmine -- like in the spring of 2018. I mean winter is coming...</div>
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All in all, I'd say it was a successful summer for outdoor home improvement projects! And now to finish up some indoor projects before this baby arrives... :)</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-21787766958292406822017-09-20T21:23:00.000-04:002017-09-20T21:23:40.672-04:00Second birthday party.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Today is Javi's birthday! Last night, I shared his <a href="http://www.jasminehduffy.com/2017/09/letter-three.html">second birthday letter</a> (from me) on the blog but today I wanted to share a bit about his birthday party!</div>
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We originally wanted to have a "Taco Twosday" party for him but ultimately decided on Mickey Mouse when the party store had nothing decorative for taco twosday but tons for Mickey! It was the right choice. We put up the few decorations we got during his nap (though he didn't nap... isn't that always the way on busy days?!) so when he came back down stairs and saw everything he was in awe and so excited! He loved the Mickey banner and balloons, all the plates and napkins and it was just perfect!</div>
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We didn't throw as big a bash as his first birthday and we had to be inside because we just planted a lot of grass seed in the yard but our parents came and some of my family who he just loves to be around! He couldn't contain himself once he saw the gift bags in his playroom and he just started tearing into present after present. He was very excited to see that so many of his gifts were Mickey related. :) He also got some blocks and a train track set, play-doh, star wars models, coloring books, stickers.... the generous list goes on and on! What a lucky guy. :)</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6jL5RSwV2rk/WcMK_myK1eI/AAAAAAABENk/vhiiHAen8ns_LtZzrZEyATf7wyEF8o1hwCLcBGAs/s1600/javisparty3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="257" data-original-width="875" height="186" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6jL5RSwV2rk/WcMK_myK1eI/AAAAAAABENk/vhiiHAen8ns_LtZzrZEyATf7wyEF8o1hwCLcBGAs/s640/javisparty3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
His most favorite part of his party was definitely blowing out his birthday cake candle... as you can tell. He kept wanting it lit again so he could blow it out again... and again. I had big plans to make a fancy Mickey Mouse birthday cake but I couldn't figure it out! So he got a round cake with a drawn on Mickey from frosting. :)<br />
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He had such a happy day during his party and today (his actual birthday!) and that's just the best thing of all.Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-21201855183406113822017-09-19T21:27:00.003-04:002017-09-19T21:27:52.900-04:00Letter three.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-itWSCz5YMWo/WcG18Z4zq6I/AAAAAAABEFE/f-vWIoQnt4M7h5mbK9yqbiUPMOKAhpnjQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="693" data-original-width="1050" height="422" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-itWSCz5YMWo/WcG18Z4zq6I/AAAAAAABEFE/f-vWIoQnt4M7h5mbK9yqbiUPMOKAhpnjQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_5897.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Javi,</i></div>
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<i>Tomorrow's your second birthday. :) We've come a long way from those sleepless, weeping (me... not you) infant days but most of the time I still consider you my baby. Unless I want you to be doing something. And then I tell you, you're big. It's confusing, I know. :) </i></div>
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<i>Time is just moving. And you are growing. You started school two weeks ago and every day you come home with a new word. Your most recent sentences have been "mama's white car", "mama's room", "door locked" and "dat me" (while pointing at your own picture). You love school! And I'm so happy about it. We were nervous about the change between daycare and school, the longer days and the further commute. But you've been so strong about it all. Most of the time I fall apart after work but not you. You jump out of the car and immediately declare that you're going to "prae" which is your version of "play" and not actually "praying". :) You love music and singing and love "Twinkle, Twinkle" and "Mr. Sun". I love the way you say "sunshine" and "thank you" and I could listen to you say those words all day. </i></div>
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<i>You are so capable and independent. Most of the time, when we offer our help, you pull away from us and sometimes you grunt something under your breath as if we're driving you crazy. And other times, you melt in our arms and pull on our hands and make sure we're paying attention and coming your way and seeing you. Trust me, we're paying attention and we see you. We always see you. </i><i>You walk with such purpose, talk with such innocence and observe with such keen sight. You're such an imitator.</i></div>
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<i>You are sneaky. Boy, are you sneaky! You sneak up on us and creep and crawl through the house playing and scaring us. You hide in the hall closet and jump out as we walk by. The other day you hid on the other side of the basement door. Not so safe (you nearly fell down the stairs) but you were really proud of yourself when you saw the look of horror on my face that you actually scared me.</i></div>
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<i>You are happy. You wake up bright-eyed and laughing and like to play in your crib. When I come in to get you, you pretend to be asleep except I know you're not because you're smiling from ear to ear. Then you jump up and down and all around and dive into your mattress. You love when I playfully cover you with your blankets and rub your back and pretend it's time to go back to sleep even though it's morning! You love Frank, your stuffed animal, and he comes everywhere with you. You call him "RiRi" and we all have to give RiRi kisses when you request them. </i></div>
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<i>You are busy. You move from one activity to another, one toy to the next, and keep going and going all day. My favorite days are the ones we get to stay home but I think the house is too small for you. You love to run and be free and be on your own. You love your after dinner walks with Buh-pa, riding your bike and most recently, pointing out our newly painted "blue house" and "baby grass". You always want to play outside. Whenever we walk out to the car, you make a turn to go to the backyard. But you don't stay there. If we turn away for even a second, you're already in the neighbor's yard. Especially if the neighborhood kids are out. When there are kids around, you are right in there with them. It doesn't matter how big they are. You're there and you're keeping up.</i></div>
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<i>You are cuddly. After a long day, you tell me "big bed" and that means you want to snuggle upstairs in mama and daddy's bed. We turn on the AC and fan, change into comfy clothes and watch movies. You're a bit demanding with your movie choices. After a few minutes of something, you ask for something new. Our entire Netflix account is geared for you now :) You still love Mickey, Curious George and most recently, Winnie the Pooh. </i></div>
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<i>You are possessive. Not over your things -- no. But if other people touch things that don't belong to them you notice. If I hold daddy's phone you yell "no! daddy's phone" and take it away and return it to its rightful owner. You do it with shoes, sunglasses, and any other belongings you notice. You also value equality. Not yet in the broader sense of the word; however, if one person in the house has shoes on -- everyone needs to. If someone changes clothes, you need to change clothes. When I touch my belly and talk about our new baby -- you touch your belly and proudly tell me there's a baby in your belly, too. You don't want to miss out or be in the dark about anything. </i></div>
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<i>You are well-traveled. In your short two years, you've been to 18 states and 1 island (twice). You've been on planes, trains, buses, boats, ferries -- I think we just need to try a taxi. You love going places and doing things. You're such a good sport and you're really good to us. You have the ability to go with the flow (of course, we all have our off days) but in general you are just so good. You're playful and witty and smart and resilient and so perfect. </i></div>
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<i>I know you'll continue to grow and change because it's inevitable. But I hope you remain just as you are at the same time. I love the way you are. I love your age, your personality, your drive and cuteness. I hope you have the happiest of all birthdays, love bug. </i></div>
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<i>I can't wait to see what two brings. </i></div>
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<i>Love, Mama </i></div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-80530885548654927482017-09-17T20:20:00.001-04:002017-09-17T20:20:46.261-04:00The pumpkin patch.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Last month, as we were driving home from Florida we took time to make a list of all the fall activities we wanted to complete and we even went as far as to put these activities into our joint calendar. ha! One thing we knew we wanted to do was visit a pumpkin patch! Last year when we went to the pumpkin patch in mid-October there weren't any pumpkins left! I looked up the best time to go pumpkin picking... and turns out mid-September is perfect! Who knew?! I can't guarantee the pumpkins won't rot before Halloween but we shall see!</div>
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We thought we'd take out Javi's <a href="http://amzn.to/2wzr5OO">radio flyer wagon</a> for the first time! It seemed like a good vessel for the terrain and how perfect that we didn't need to carry a toddler.... or pumpkins! Luckily, he loved his ride and the whole thing made for some really fun pictures. :)</div>
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We went to a farm that's a pretty close to our house. It was really crowded but apparently everyone was there for apple picking (not pumpkin picking) so we pretty much had the patch to ourselves. Because it's so early in the season, the paths to walk through weren't yet cleared and the grass (? is it grass) was really tall. I was a bit worried about ticks so I stayed on the outskirts. :) But Sean jumped right in.</div>
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I can't wait to continue with our fall festivities. On the agenda is apple picking (and baking), a weekend trip to Maine, a day at the zoo and a 5K (should be a bit interesting since I'll be 29 weeks at that point). Not to mention getting ready for the new baby (setting up a nursery, etc.), re-doing our upstairs bathroom and purging our basement. Some things are clearly more fun than others. :)</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-20816598560691784642017-09-10T19:57:00.000-04:002017-09-10T19:57:53.181-04:00Thirty-one.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I turned 31 today!<br />
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Last night, Sean and I celebrated by going out to dinner and to the movies. We saw It -- and I was so scared! I remembered most of the scenes so I knew exactly when to look away (!) but it was still scary. Today we did a lot of errands but we also had ice cream cake twice, I got to choose what to have for lunch (Outback) and we tried to take a family photo (it was only mildly successful).</div>
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Javi thoroughly enjoyed blowing out my candles (again and again and again). You might say he's practicing for his very own birthday celebration -- next Saturday (though his birthday isn't until the 20th). The lucky guy had ice cream three times on his mama's birthday. :)</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-39434083501371699182017-09-05T21:34:00.000-04:002017-09-05T21:50:46.440-04:00Getting ready for Montessori school.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tomorrow, Javi joins one of the toddler classrooms at my school. I'm excited about this (and a bit nervous, if I'm being honest) but I'm really looking forward to seeing him throughout the day on the playground and in his Montessori classroom -- which is right down the hall from mine. He hasn't been in "school" before even though I called his daycare a "school", and he's jumping from a 3-day a week program to a 5-day a week program -- so it's a really exciting time for us in the Duffy Household!</div>
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(Javi spending time in my 3-6 classroom!)</div>
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Even though I teach older children there are things I suggest the parents in my classroom do to ease the transition of attending full-time school (for the first time, or after a long break), and in a Montessori setting. Javi's been at home with us for about 3 weeks and here's what we've been doing to prepare for the new school year:</div>
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<b>1. We've created as many opportunities for independence, as possible:</b> I know firsthand that Montessori schools inspire and encourage a certain level of independence in children even younger than Javi. At home, it's really easy to do everything for him (basically it's easier and more time efficient for us) but at school, I know he won't be the only child and it's not easier for the teachers just to do things for him. We've let him try to do things for himself from the beginning, but this summer we've put an emphasis on this type of independence -- putting on and taking off his socks and shoes, dressing himself, giving him an expectation or a direction once and trusting that he follows-through. We've put away his highchair and he eats all his meals on a normal dining room chair (and we continually ask him to come back to the chair every time he gets up!). We've also broadened his "yes-space" to a larger area of our home, and we've taken down most of the safety gates and have started encouraging him to go up and down the staircase without holding our hand -- knowing that at school he'll have a large, multi-floor campus to maneuver through -- even with teachers by his side.<br />
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<b>2. We've been talking about his new school, and new teachers:</b> About 3 weeks ago, his new teachers sent him a postcard in the mail with their pictures on it. I quickly put it up on the fridge (at his height) and every time we walk by the fridge I point to the photo and say their names again (he can sort of say both, by now!). The teachers of most toddler Montessori programs complete home-visits and ours is no different. So about 2 weeks ago, one of his teachers actually came to our house and spent time with us in our home environment. It was not only nice to get face-to-face time with a teacher but great for Javi to see us interact with her and for us to ask any final questions about his classroom, the routine, phase-in, etc.<br />
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<b>3. We've purchased, gathered and labeled everything he needs for school:</b> Javi got a backpack for Christmas last year and it's a great size for him so he's going to continue to use it but there were a number of other things listed that he didn't have -- a lunchbox, a water bottle, indoor shoes, etc. For the past month, I've been slowly picking up these things as I see them and he's been practicing unzipping and zipping both his backpack and lunchbox and trying on his new <a href="http://amzn.to/2w4NFi1">indoor shoes</a>. This evening, I put those items on our table along with a bed sheet and blanket (for rest time), diapers and wipes, 3 extra outfits, his sweatshirt, outdoor shoes, boots, etc., etc., etc., and wrote his name on every single thing. <i>Every single thing.</i> <b>Every single thing.</b> At school, things get lost all the time so hopefully I'll be able to scoop it back up again if his name is on it.<br />
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I'm hoping that all these things, coupled with his 2 week phase-in process where he only attends school for an hour and 15 minutes each day will help with his transition to a new routine, teachers, friends, school, etc., etc., etc.! He has a lot happening for him in the next few weeks and I'm really excited to see how it turns out.</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-59491842809920024632017-09-03T21:32:00.000-04:002017-09-03T21:32:40.141-04:00Cazenovia, New York.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Last weekend we traveled to upstate New York for my cousin Emily's wedding. The setting was a beautiful farm and it was so nice to spend time with family, be outside and watch a wedding! It was Javi's first and it was a perfect introduction to such a special event as there were so many great, kid-friendly things -- horse rides, a kids tent with coloring and bubbles, lots of space to run and play and even a hayride! We had so much fun!</div>
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Weddings are such an exciting time and I just love them. Javi was definitely a fan of all his cousins and he couldn't get enough of all the kids and animals on the farm! We were sad to leave a bit on the earlier side (it was already way past his bedtime!) but so happy to end the night with a hayride! And on the (7 minute) drive home...</div>
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Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-79732485312781480402017-09-01T23:09:00.000-04:002017-09-02T23:11:49.029-04:00Critz Farm, New York.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last weekend we traveled to upstate New York for my cousin Emily's wedding. The morning of the wedding, we -- along with another cousin Lindsey (+ her family), needed a little outing -- or rather, we felt the other hotel guests needed a break from our company :) I searched online for a great place to spend time with toddlers and I stumbled across <a href="http://www.critzfarms.com/">Critz Farm</a> -- a playground open all day, a farm, a petting zoo, a brewery... I mean, it was really the perfect place. When we arrived the brewery wasn't open (it was like 9:30AM) and either was the petting zoo part but the playground was, the grassy area for running was so big and the petting zoo animals were just right there! We spent 2 very fun hours on the farm and the whole time we were amazed that no one else was there. Before we left, Sean and Tim made it up to the brewery and said the beer and cider was great, too.</div>
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The point of our outing was to tire out the kids so they'd nap before the wedding. Obviously, it didn't work out that way -- because there's never a nap time guarantee but they all rallied for the wedding (post to come!) especially after being out in the hot sun for hours and hours.</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-36328191512830916202017-08-31T22:24:00.000-04:002017-09-02T22:36:03.493-04:00Delray Beach, Florida.<div style="text-align: justify;">
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We've been home from Florida for a little more than a week. Even though we didn't go down there for the best reason, Sean's dad is sick, we tried our best to squeeze in as much family time as possible in between doctor appointments and spending time with Sean's dad. We managed to explore a number of places. </div>
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We attempted to go to the beach one morning. It was actually all that I talked about for 4 days -- and then when we got there, to my surprise NO ONE was there! I was amazed. I thought, for sure, that it would be packed. We carried all our stuff -- a beach blanket, sand toys, food and drinks, a diaper bag -- you know, all the stuff that is "unnecessary". Well, apparently, no one was on the beach because they're smart and know that it was way too freaking hot at the beach. Like... so... hot. I thought I was going to die and made us leave within 45 minutes.</div>
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We also spent an afternoon at <a href="http://floridahikes.com/wakodatahatchee">Wakodohatchee Wetlands</a>. It was a really cool place to walk around and Javi was obsessed with seeing all the birds and turtles and fish and we even saw an alligator! I was a bit scared of the alligators and it was really hot (that's sort of a theme when talking about our trip -- it was hot) but it was really nice and I highly recommend the walk!</div>
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It was so hot that ice cream was a necessity! And ice water especially through a straw. :)</div>
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We ate out for nearly every meal. One of the best places we went was <a href="https://rokbrgr.com/">Rok Burger</a> and I loved their fried pickles. Javi wasn't totally into being at a restaurant at the time but he pulled through.</div>
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The best place we ate at (3 times) was <a href="http://elcaminodelray.com/">El Camino</a>. Every time Sean gets back from Florida he talks about their tacos and I finally got to experience them. They are really amazing and since we've been back and have gotten tacos -- we've compared them to these ones. So good!</div>
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The absolute best outing we made was to <a href="http://www.lioncountrysafari.com/">Lion Country Safari</a>. Javi is loving all things animals right now and they have a drive-thru safari park along with a whole list of other things we didn't have time to see but hopefully one day we'll get back. If we lived close by I imagine we'd spend a lot of time there!</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/232196467" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>
<a href="https://vimeo.com/232196467">Lion Country Safari</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user63760138">Jasmine Duffy</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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As you can tell... lions are loved around here. </div>
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Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-54644934761772223662017-08-24T22:28:00.000-04:002017-08-24T22:28:02.604-04:00Kitchen face-lift.<div style="text-align: justify;">
We moved into our house in 2013 but it was built in the 50s. Most of the rooms still had a 50s look to them when we moved in. We've tried our best to update the house and do what we can to make it more our style but it all comes with a cost and a time commitment, of course!</div>
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The kitchen was one of the last rooms on the first floor to be touched (other than wall paint -- it was dark green when we moved in and we quickly painted the walls Moonshine by Benjamin Moore). We still have a long way to go... I'd love a new sink, a back splash, new appliances, new countertop, new window.... you get it -- pretty much I'd love a kitchen makeover. BUT... when you can't afford anything at all -- a gallon of paint for the cabinets goes a looooong way!</div>
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I was so excited when we got back from Florida to this lovely surprise from my mom and my aunt. They painted our cabinets for us while we were away! They used chalk paint -- white for the top cabinets and the bottoms are Duck Egg Blue. Plus they spray painted the knobs which makes them stand out a bit. Like I said, we still need to figure out the rest of the kitchen (especially those strips of wood on the countertop that I'm not a huge fan of) but it's such an improvement!</div>
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I'm so happy with how it turned out and it makes the space feel so bright and airy. Just what I hoped for!</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-16117550178993739382017-08-17T20:39:00.000-04:002017-08-17T20:39:24.930-04:00209 days.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>This photo has nothing to do with this post -- but it makes me happy and this post is depressing. </b></div>
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<i>Oh, so many thoughts. </i></div>
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I'm currently in Florida, after driving from MA and going through Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, D.C., Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Lots of states in just a few days, that's for sure. Luckily (or unluckily) I was plugged in the whole time and listened to DjT's news conference on facebook, i<i>n horror</i> -- we sat in the car and said "what is happening right now?!" and "is he being serious?" -- Once we got to the hotel, we watched news channel after news channel distance themselves from his words and tell the audience that he failed America. I listened to Rachel Maddow give a very brief timeline of the KKK and learned (?) that DjT's father was once arrested for being part of a klan "rally" that got out of hand -- did we know this?! Did we know he was a nazi-sympathizer? We should have. This whole neo-nazi vs. anti-facist thing has got me all sorts of confused. Aren't we supposed to be anti-facists?! Isn't that just being a part of humanity? It's like every time I loosen up on my distain and disappointment of him he does something even worse than before. </div>
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We all know what happened Saturday. So when Monday rolled around and we had to depart the cozy and <strike>safe</strike> (?) part of the northeast to drive... south, I was a bit worried! Of course, there are people everywhere that share the same views of DjT, who fly the confederate flag, or who don't value diversity, or who don't think social issues are important. I'm not naive. I don't think the northeast is some sacred blue land. But while driving through the south... I had no idea how many confederate flags I actually <b>would</b> see. There were a lot. And they were big. And they were flown really high. I don't understand it. <i>That's not our flag.</i> You are not preserving history. That's for museums to do. You are displaying a controversial symbol that represents racism, oppression and slavery. </div>
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DjT has been in office for 209 days. That's <b>it</b>. He has more time ahead of him, in office, than behind. Because of who I am, and what I look like, and where I live -- I have the privilege of checking in and out of this presidency, his administration and his agenda. It's a terrible thing -- that when it gets too much for me to handle and I feel useless and defeated and his words make me so frustrated and bring me to tears -- I can just not pay attention. Nothing has effected me. <b>Yet</b>. There have been no threats against me. <b>Yet</b>. I'm not an immigrant. I'm not muslim. I'm not transgendered. You <i>can't tell </i>I'm a person of color. I'm not Jewish. -- And so what now? I wait until he continues to add more groups to his list of humans he won't defend or stand up for -- until one of those groups <i>does</i> define me? How is he leading us? How is he protecting us? </div>
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It reminds me of this:</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVpFXMmsXcY/WZYv7gJ1QBI/AAAAAAABBEQ/LiSVyrokg-0exHhDdm0QlyhoiKZUvhMbwCLcBGAs/s1600/firsttheycamefor.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="252" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVpFXMmsXcY/WZYv7gJ1QBI/AAAAAAABBEQ/LiSVyrokg-0exHhDdm0QlyhoiKZUvhMbwCLcBGAs/s640/firsttheycamefor.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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This weekend, all across the country, including Boston, there are going to be more "rallies" in the name of "free speech" and there will be counter-protests. It feels unsafe to attend these counter-protests but if people don't show up then... what? We'll all slowly be picked off and picked over by DjT and his administration until there's one kind of people in this country and most likely that one group of people won't include me or you. I have a problem with that. That's not the America I want to live in and it's not the America I want for my kids. </div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-62236691030055297752017-08-16T22:52:00.001-04:002017-08-16T22:52:12.041-04:00Road Trip: 1,400 miles with a toddler.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well -- we made it to Florida! We left Monday at 10AM -- we had to wait for my doctor's appointment to be over (what's up with the non-ultrasound pre-natal appointments when the doctor just asks you how you're feeling and then sends you on your way?!) -- and we arrived at Sean's dad's house around noon today. Roughly 1,400 miles stood between our house in Massachusetts and his house in Delray Beach, Florida. 1,400 miles. With a 23-month old. And I'm 20 weeks pregnant. With a blood clotting disorder. Yikes! Needless to say we stopped... a lot. More than Sean stopped on his last trip down south. But it was necessary for stretching, safety and sanity.</div>
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I was really aware of space on this trip. I'm trying to be more minimalistic when it comes to packing. It stresses me out. I googled and pinterested and scoured the internet for the best way to actually pack the car. Not necessarily what to pack... but <i>how</i>. I ultimately decided to share a suitcase with Sean and have all of Javi's stuff in another suitcase. Within each suitcase, I'm using <a href="http://amzn.to/2fMMQYI">packing cubes</a> and everything has a very clear, visible place to be and it's worked out well so far. With the packing cubes, it's easy to see what's missing and what still needs to be re-packed -- so hopefully we don't leave anything behind in hotel rooms! We have his pack n play, <a href="http://amzn.to/2wcojTQ">diaper bag</a> -- packed with any emergency things we may need like an extra outfit, medicines, a blanket, his lovey, then a backpack for all our computer things, a cooler with plenty of drinks and snacks behind the passenger seat that I could easily access wherever I was sitting and a snack basket that can easily be transferred between the backseat and the front seat depending on where I wanted to sit. I also set up a little diaper changing station in the seat pocket of the drivers side so any time we stopped I could change Javi. Most importantly, I limited his toys/books/entertainment to whatever fit into a narrow basket. It's small and fits on the floor in the middle of the backseat. </div>
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Javi did really well. Like <i>really well</i> with what limited supplies we had -- we'll have to see if he's so content on the way back home -- because, yes, we still have to drive home. But there were some things that aided in our road trip and I wanted to share them here:</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qxnmE3mKtZw/WZT0vXs2p5I/AAAAAAABA9M/yvroMFMu6SowhaL7z5roBmKCR9GMXds7wCLcBGAs/s1600/road%2Bkit.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1005" data-original-width="875" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qxnmE3mKtZw/WZT0vXs2p5I/AAAAAAABA9M/yvroMFMu6SowhaL7z5roBmKCR9GMXds7wCLcBGAs/s640/road%2Bkit.png" width="556" /></a></div>
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I brought some of his favorite things -- like this <a href="http://amzn.to/2i7UTAl">viewfinder toy</a>, this <a href="http://amzn.to/2vJRcUl">vtech book</a>, this <a href="http://amzn.to/2vKki6h">doodle pro</a>, and lots of books like <a href="http://amzn.to/2uK09jz">this one</a>. I also picked up some things that were brand new to him like some foam puzzles (<a href="http://amzn.to/2vJXyDu">similar</a>), brand new mickey <a href="http://amzn.to/2uK4K4V">crayons</a>, and mickey <a href="http://amzn.to/2wRaMOT">flashcards</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OTm-QpCzaQE/WZT8kwzux4I/AAAAAAABA9o/7ddhxEScI0McSOmjPD7Xs2zSYBLvdTSEQCLcBGAs/s1600/tray.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="289" data-original-width="875" height="210" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OTm-QpCzaQE/WZT8kwzux4I/AAAAAAABA9o/7ddhxEScI0McSOmjPD7Xs2zSYBLvdTSEQCLcBGAs/s640/tray.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I bought him a <a href="http://amzn.to/2wceB4b">travel tray</a> for coloring, reading, playing, eating, etc. This came in handy, for sure, though it doesn't lay perfectly flat (I'm assuming because he still rear-faces). So at times, everything on his tray would slide into his body and down into his seat which would elicit a "nooooooooooo" squeal. We bought a <a href="http://amzn.to/2i7oCZU">tablet holder</a>. I know, I know. But disney movies kept him occupied, busy and happy. </div>
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For me -- being in the car that long wasn't a good idea! In fact, one of my doctors was against us making the trip, another one of my doctors told me my pregnant bladder was my only limitation. So to make everyone happy, I promised to stop and stretch every few hours, drink plenty of water, I rotated from the backseat to the front seat so that I could stretch out my legs and put my feet up, and I wore compression socks. By the way -- <a href="http://amzn.to/2wc9Ya8">compression socks</a> in August... in a place like Georgia -- are hot. So hot. But they did help!</div>
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Another thing we did that worked out well and we plan to do it the same on the way back is to book hotels as we go. Each night as we were nearing what we felt needed to be the end I quickly got online and searched for a hotel on our route. Originally, I wanted to book ahead but between not knowing how I would feel, how Javi would respond to being in the car, Sean driving, possible traffic... there were just too many variables. Booking last minute was fine and we got pretty good deals on the rooms. When booking hotel rooms, we always opt for suites because we like having a separate bedroom so that Javi can go to bed in darkness (like he does at home) and we can still have space to get organized, watch tv, eat snacks, etc. It's worth the extra money to us and it's typically a difference of $20! $20 for a good night's sleep is so worth it. For Javi, we brought his pack n play (he's used to sleeping in it) with a comfy mattress pad, a sheet and blanket, his sound machine and his monitor so we can check on him without disturbing him. I find that making it just like home, is important. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xmU4NJylcn0/WZUAipUiwMI/AAAAAAABA90/trT1d_TpzII44ca4YglWQMLiH4lsRXI1ACLcBGAs/s1600/sleeping.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1168" data-original-width="877" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xmU4NJylcn0/WZUAipUiwMI/AAAAAAABA90/trT1d_TpzII44ca4YglWQMLiH4lsRXI1ACLcBGAs/s640/sleeping.png" width="480" /></a></div>
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We also tried to keep him on schedule as much as possible. We tried to eat at normal times -- (I cut up a lot of fruit and veggies and brought him a bunch of pouches), get to bed at his normal time and we tried not to rush him in the morning! In fact, one morning at 9AM he was still looking like this -- and we just waited, and waited for him. But he was happy when he woke up and we <i>eventually</i> got on the road!</div>
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Now for 5 days in the Florida heat -- and then the drive home!</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-85852411306963483182017-08-10T22:25:00.000-04:002017-08-17T13:03:07.117-04:00Exciting news!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1uagJjRbHQ/WY0QoWTaf0I/AAAAAAABATs/OWBRJ9wIVUgDrnOujLtGs8j25C9lnUJcACLcBGAs/s1600/javiwithultrasound.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1168" data-original-width="877" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1uagJjRbHQ/WY0QoWTaf0I/AAAAAAABATs/OWBRJ9wIVUgDrnOujLtGs8j25C9lnUJcACLcBGAs/s640/javiwithultrasound.png" width="480" /></a></div>
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So... we've been holding onto a little secret! We're expecting a baby (due New Year's Eve!) and it's a baby girl!</div>
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We're so excited and it's been killing me not to blog about it. When I was pregnant with Javi I didn't blog often (though I revealed the news much earlier along) but it was more because it was all so new and I didn't want anything to go wrong. Of course, that's always a worry -- but this time was more because I've been busy, the doctors are watching the baby's heart for some concerns AND my work didn't know yet. Since my social media and blog are public I thought it would be weird to post here. </div>
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I'll be 20 weeks on Saturday and I'm definitely starting to show so it was time to share the news on social media and <i>here</i> and I'm so looking forward to the rest of the pregnancy and being a mom to a little girl!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JM8SGs51GdA/WY0TPBkZMCI/AAAAAAABAT4/1zcfF49GECQP2fYWorAFf4iod2Z5d5vPQCLcBGAs/s1600/pregnancyweeks.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="875" height="254" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JM8SGs51GdA/WY0TPBkZMCI/AAAAAAABAT4/1zcfF49GECQP2fYWorAFf4iod2Z5d5vPQCLcBGAs/s640/pregnancyweeks.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've been feeling pretty good. I found out really early (on April 22) and so I feel like I really experienced all of the first trimester. Thankfully, just like with Javi, I didn't experience typical morning sickness symptoms however, I felt pretty terrible during the day, couldn't eat and just wanted to sleep away my constant headaches. Around 14 weeks, that stopped and I've been feeling good (other than being so tired). The second pregnancy is definitely different since you can't just nap whenever you feel like it with a toddler running around and screaming! :)</div>
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Javi's birthday is coming up which means he'll be about 28 months by the time baby arrives. As of now, he doesn't know what's about to happen to his little world but we've been talking about it and he likes to point to my belly (and his) and point out the "bebe". It was only on Tuesday, we found out it's a girl so now I'm going into major planning mode. :)</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-33952146211314365032017-08-05T21:22:00.000-04:002017-08-08T21:23:20.649-04:00Cape Cod.<span style="text-align: justify;">Javi and I joined my aunt and cousin down the Cape for a week. We were so lucky with weather and it was such a nice week to be on vacation. Javi enjoyed the beach, daily shopping trips and of course, spending time with my cousin Lizzie, who he calls "Lillie!" He also thoroughly enjoyed the outdoor shower at the house we rented! </span>
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Sean had been away with his dad in Florida and needed to get back to work so he wasn't able to come for the entire week. He did manage to sneak away from work for a few nights here and there. Luckily, the Cape is pretty close to where we live so it made it easier for him to join us. We ate out a lot, had ice cream nearly every day and even went mini-golfing!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dDWgRs_mgig/WYpfD6o8SgI/AAAAAAABALg/tYeOxhH9Fwg8g9-STK77NukxFojbltsTACLcBGAs/s1600/Cape2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="875" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dDWgRs_mgig/WYpfD6o8SgI/AAAAAAABALg/tYeOxhH9Fwg8g9-STK77NukxFojbltsTACLcBGAs/s640/Cape2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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One day we drove all the way to Provincetown -- it's all the way at the tip of Massachusetts -- and spent the day. It's a really popular location and it seems like everyone always has a dog with them! Javi thoroughly enjoyed shouting "a dog!" every. single. time. he saw a dog! I also got my first <a href="http://amzn.to/2un3Hbg" target="_blank">Cape Cod bracelet</a>!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OC7wrNwYJXI/WYph0O0kRgI/AAAAAAABAMA/2z5ZaMkyzK8Oow0esmZ2Q-m8sm2bmYjqgCLcBGAs/s1600/cape9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="875" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OC7wrNwYJXI/WYph0O0kRgI/AAAAAAABAMA/2z5ZaMkyzK8Oow0esmZ2Q-m8sm2bmYjqgCLcBGAs/s640/cape9.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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On one of the cooler evenings, we thought it would be fun to take a stroll on the beach. Apparently, toddlers don't know that means "we aren't going swimming"! -- because Javi jumped into the ocean -- fully clothed! And I didn't have a towel, a change of clothes or a diaper! So...</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s_GZrGDiq2Y/WYpfC6kapEI/AAAAAAABALc/JvC3PVUZcGU5kBT09PiNUIPyJW0oRslTgCLcBGAs/s1600/Cape3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="877" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s_GZrGDiq2Y/WYpfC6kapEI/AAAAAAABALc/JvC3PVUZcGU5kBT09PiNUIPyJW0oRslTgCLcBGAs/s640/Cape3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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We also spent a day in Chatham -- one of my most favorite places in the Cape. Another one of my cousins joined us and Javi is OBSESSED, though totally wasn't a fan of having his photo taken that day. </div>
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It was such a fun week and one that reminded me of my childhood since I spent time in the Cape every summer. I hope that Javi gets to experience similar vacations because they really were so fun!</div>
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<br />Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-19966101383277342172017-08-01T10:00:00.000-04:002017-08-16T21:28:14.273-04:00Review: Cozy Phones.<div style="text-align: justify;">
A few weeks ago I was contacted by <a href="http://www.cozyphones.com/" target="_blank">Cozy Phones</a> and they kindly offered to send Javi a pair of their kid headphones! They have so many styles to choose from -- a unicorn, an adorable fox, a smiley face, a cat, and tons more -- but I chose the green frog because Javi had just learned that frogs say "ribbit"!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hKvfMXkmo5Q/WY0FGSk_d2I/AAAAAAABATc/33BOlJ098ycJj6CUeOESTRXTjuhdiFA-wCLcBGAs/s1600/cozy%2Bphones.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="726" height="550" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hKvfMXkmo5Q/WY0FGSk_d2I/AAAAAAABATc/33BOlJ098ycJj6CUeOESTRXTjuhdiFA-wCLcBGAs/s640/cozy%2Bphones.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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To be honest, we don't have that many opportunities for Javi to wear headphones but I like to have them just in case. For our last flight I purchased a pair but they were a bit bulky and Javi didn't want to wear them at all. These cozy headphones are great because they are lightweight, super flexible and of course the cute design helps attract the little ones!</div>
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When we first received them, I excitedly put them on him and he was quick to take them off! The soft fleece is a bit warm for summer time but we do live in a location that is cool and/or cold half of the year -- so that shouldn't be a problem soon enough. Since that first time he's tried them on a few times but he's still pretty young so his headphone sessions don't last long. He gets a bit sidetracked! He's obsessed with hats and his helmet so I'm sure in no time he'll be loving these, too!</div>
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In a few weeks, we're embarking on a road trip and I'm hoping that with the AC in the car, these headphones will be perfect to use with a tablet so he can have a bit of screen time and we don't have to hear Mickey Mouse's voice. :) The soft, smooth fabric is perfect just in case he falls asleep in the car, too. (fingers crossed!).</div>
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Thanks so much to <a href="http://www.cozyphones.com/">Cozy Phones</a> for the generous gift. I'm excited for Javi to use these headphones on many occasions in the future.</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-88460607541918697352017-07-17T20:15:00.000-04:002017-08-08T20:24:13.325-04:00York, Maine.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Javi and I traveled to Maine with one of my aunts to visit one of my aunts who lives there! It was a much better trip than the last time we went to Maine and Javi was obsessed with both the pool and the ocean! We couldn't get him to calm down about it and he was a complete maniac! He's definitely a pool-runner and we have to work on that!</div>
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Even though I'm not totally a fan of the water (actually I'm really afraid it) I'm really glad to have a son that loves it. I mean... LOVES it.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/226239408" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe> </div>
<a href="https://vimeo.com/226239408">Javi vs. the Atlantic</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user63760138">Jasmine Duffy</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</center>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-71599226242634819022017-07-16T07:30:00.000-04:002017-07-16T07:30:39.138-04:00Six years.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today is our 6th wedding anniversary! With Sean being away we aren't doing anything to celebrate (though we did sneak in a date night before he left!) but it also has me feeling very nostalgic. It's so fun to go back and look at photos and I think it's so important to document events like this. It makes me realize how far we've come, all of our accomplishments and milestones. Though we've been married 6 years, we've been together for ten! So... I entered down the windy road of google photos INCLUDING wedding photos (!) and decided to share some my favorites. There are a lot of favorites (ha!) --</div>
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To give a quick recap -- if I was going to tell a story about the collage above it would go something like: the time I acted like I could skateboard when I really didn't know how at all. The time we got fancy and went on a dinner train even though I didn't eat any of the food because it was too fancy for me. The time I wanted to be something pretty for Halloween but Sean ended up picking and it was the first time I bought and wore something from the Salvation Army. The time when we used to take photos with cameras! The time I got such a sunburn in Maine. The time we were invited to a "prom party" in our 20s. The first time we went to Seattle together. The time we got the first set of keys for our very first apartment. The time we went to a wedding together... for the first time. The time we got engaged. The time we left for our honeymoon. The time that ended up being my favorite NYE. The time we celebrated our first wedding anniversary. The time we celebrated my birthday... still in my 20s. The time Sean made me try mac & cheese with pulled pork and it was amazing. The last time we attended a wedding before I got pregnant!</div>
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Since I clearly skipped a whole thing (like the wedding) in that recap -- here are some of my favorites from just that day -- 7.16.11:</div>
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A lot has changed in the years we've been together and it's amazing to think of the differences and what remains the same. I'm so excited for the future and to find out what is still in store for us. :)Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-80258276413811226912017-07-15T22:11:00.000-04:002017-07-15T22:11:00.143-04:00FunFest.<div style="text-align: justify;">
I took Javi to FunFest, an event put on by WGBH (here in Boston, that's how Javi watches Curious George!). We met my cousin Lindsey and her kids there and I thought for sure Javi would LOVE to meet Curious George -- but, he was scared and not having it. In fact, when I unbuckled him to stand up to take a picture with George, he quickly buckled himself right back in the stroller. After we hit up the food truck, enjoyed the "all you can eat ice cream", got faces painted and decided against the long line for the bounce house we decided to call it a morning and went back to Lindsey's for some backyard/water play fun. That's definitely Javi's favorite thing right now so he was in his element (plus loving the kids to play with and all the toys to admire!). </div>
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// <a href="https://www.freetobekids.com/collections/boys-will-be-good-humans/products/boys-will-be-good-humans-boys-girls-toddler-kids-t-shirt" target="_blank">Javi's shirt</a> //</div>
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Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-85647957422183428022017-07-14T21:52:00.000-04:002017-07-18T20:37:10.659-04:00Life Lately.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, it's been a while since I've sat down just to write about life so I thought now is as good a time as any! Sean's back in Florida, spending time with his dad who is having some health issues. He left last Tuesday so Javi and I have spent a lot of time together and with my parents. I've tried to keep his schedule the same, as much as possible, though it's really sad to come home, put him to bed and then have nothing to do and no one to hang out with all evening! Let's just say I've been watching a lot of Friends (and staying away from Criminal Minds which I started to watch on night 1 and then I was like WHAT THE HECK AM I DOING?!).</div>
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Along with repeats of Friends and How I Met Your Mother (always my go-to's) I've been catching up on Baby Daddy, and The People vs. OJ Simpson. Javi accidentally purchased HBO (and Starz) through our Amazon <a href="http://amzn.to/2vpHWU1" target="_blank">firestick</a> though I was a bit excited because I got to watch <a href="http://amzn.to/2vpszLu" target="_blank">Big Little Lies</a> which I loved! I'm in need of more shows to watch though -- I have a long week ahead of me and after he's in bed I don't have much to do. I've tried so many Netflix shows and can't find one that I can make it past episode 1. </div>
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My summer job is going well. It's not necessarily what I imagined and is definitely a lot different than what I'm used to (philosophy-wise, daily schedule-wise, budget-wise) but at this point there are only 2 weeks left. Since Sean's left I've had to change my hours to make my already really short days -- even shorter. But I'm home most days by 12:20 and two days a week Javi is at his own daycare/summer camp so I get to come home, eat Dairy Queen and watch TV -- but mostly I just nap.</div>
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Speaking of naps, I'm really proud of myself for finally getting to a place where Javi naps -- in his crib! I feel like it's a major accomplishment. He doesn't always do it, but for the past week he has and it's amazing how refreshed I feel when he naps in his crib compared to when he naps in the car. Car naps mean I have to drive him around and then I become exhausted! So -- yay for crib naps!</div>
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I was a bit overwhelmed this week on Prime Day. There were so many things I wanted but ultimately picked out a <a href="http://amzn.to/2t3e92E" target="_blank">scooter</a>, a <a href="http://amzn.to/2tWeU0w" target="_blank">helmet</a> and a <a href="http://amzn.to/2tsLEe5" target="_blank">wheelbarrow</a> for Javi. He's gotten to ride his scooter (once) in the house and it was definitely clear I could have just gotten him the helmet because that was his favorite part. In fact, when I took it off he had a full meltdown screaming "mine!" and then tried to convince me he needed to wear it in the car. </div>
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// <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=KbZ688wY0qU&mid=35576&murl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hannaandersson.com%2Fpdp.aspx%3Ffrom%3DSRCH%26styleid%3D43948%26simg%3D43948_BF9" target="_blank">star wars slippers</a> // star wars pajamas (sold out, similar <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=KbZ688wY0qU&mid=35576&murl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hannaandersson.com%2Fpdp.aspx%3Ffrom%3DSRCH%26styleid%3D47881%26simg%3D47881_HB8" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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Did you get any Prime Day purchases?! If so, what?</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-41536230018183577042017-07-09T21:14:00.000-04:002017-08-17T13:03:56.749-04:00A trip to Maine.<div style="text-align: justify;">
We got engaged at Pemaquid Lighthouse in Maine and it's been a special place to us since. Sean's family has a house near there and we try to get away at least a few times a year. We haven't taken Javi there since he was just 3 weeks old (!) and we thought it would be such a fun family getaway... <i>boy</i> were we wrong! Javi was in a good mood on the way up (it's about a 4 hour drive) and he slept a good amount and entertained himself with snacks and netflix the rest of the way -- and was even amazing during dinner the first night! Even other diners were like "wow! how old is he??" and "he's spectacular" and "he's just so happy!" but then clearly all those compliments went to his head (or mine?!) and Saturday and Sunday he was in the worst mood! He discovered "no!" and "mine!" and just really threw us off our fun-family-getaway track. Sean's a lot better than me at just going with the flow and making the best of it but I (I guess like Javi, ha!) just can't do it. It's fair to say that we have to have a do-over because I came home from the vacation thinking "god, I need a vacation!" -- we did manage to get some good pictures though and in only a few can you tell how unhappy he truly was. </div>
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Oh - he's still in the "no!" and "mine!" phase and if you have any tips -- send them my way. </div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-37302264989584160342017-07-04T20:51:00.000-04:002017-07-15T20:52:04.292-04:00Happy 4th of July!<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had a quiet 4th of July. We spent most of the afternoon at my parent's house eating food, Javi played with the water table (& cousins!) and we finished the evening off with a walk down to the ice cream truck. Things are bit different now... since Javi goes to bed at 7 (and I'm pretty strict about it!) there were no fireworks to be seen by us. Maybe next year!</div>
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// <a href="http://redirect.viglink.com/?key=4d5e214cb3ef7f4c110a9eea36afadb2&type=bk&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gap.com%2Fbrowse%2Fproduct.do%3Fcid%3D1076444%26pcid%3D1067565%26vid%3D1%26pid%3D693550002" target="_blank">toddler cutoffs</a> (similar) // <a href="http://redirect.viglink.com/?key=4d5e214cb3ef7f4c110a9eea36afadb2&type=bk&u=http%3A%2F%2Foldnavy.gap.com%2Fbrowse%2Fproduct.do%3Fvid%3D1%26pid%3D616196002" target="_blank">mickey rashguard</a> // <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=KbZ688wY0qU&mid=1237&murl=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Fhavaianas-slim-logo-metallic-flip-flop-women%2F3229790%3Forigin%3Dkeywordsearch-personalizedsort%26fashioncolor%3DBLACK" target="_blank">havaianas</a> //</div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-83624395599894045402017-07-03T19:50:00.000-04:002017-07-06T20:16:20.565-04:00Our weekend.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I love weekends but they're especially exciting during the summer. This past weekend we went out to dinner with Sean's parents and they gave Javi new sandals (don't mind the socks... he was trying them on). We had to wrap up dinner pretty quickly because we were at a golf course (eating outside) and there was a huge storm on the way! It didn't stop Javi from having fun jumping his way to the car. :)</div>
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// <a href="http://goto.target.com/c/365353/78775/2092?prodsku=51671910&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fbaby-boys-pull-on-shorts-cat-jack-153-red-plaid-18m%2F-%2FA-51671910" target="_blank">plaid shorts</a> //</div>
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We also had a great time at a huge car show. Well Sean had more fun than me and Javi :) -- but we finished the day off with ice cream and everyone enjoyed that. The next day, Javi and my parents went to a splash pad (!) and we finished off the weekend with burgers from Five Guys!</div>
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// <a href="http://goto.target.com/c/365353/78775/2092?prodsku=51986720&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fkids-freedom-rocks-baseball-hat-cat-jack-153-red-one-size%2F-%2FA-51986720" target="_blank">freedom rocks hat</a> // </div>
Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-16408445623195252082017-06-30T21:33:00.000-04:002017-07-05T21:43:36.102-04:00EcoTarium.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Javi and I went to the EcoTarium with my friends and their kids. They had a free admission day. Javi loved the slide and the indoor play space. But it's also a really cool museum about science and nature. We had a blast!</div>
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Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106957980816700012.post-79986081962711149822017-06-27T19:52:00.000-04:002017-07-05T20:35:26.068-04:00Snapshots of June.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
June brings the end of my 8th year of teaching and the beginning of summer. I had planned to be with Javi all summer but ultimately took a part-time position running a summer camp so Javi also joined a camp 2 days a week! We've been busy at farm stands, watercolor painting and wearing sunglasses inside. :) We also celebrated Father's Day and have gone through so many bottles of bubbles. </div>
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<br />Jasmine H. Duffyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14676441213673395746noreply@blogger.com0