tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6182080707063590312024-03-12T17:26:58.464-07:00Delightfully DunnMarianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.comBlogger419125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-61429625416312741592017-02-08T10:04:00.002-08:002017-02-11T11:03:06.226-08:00An Open Letter to Betsy DeVosDear Betsy DeVos,<br />
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Yesterday, <a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/mike-pence-casts-tie-breaking-vote-confirm-betsy-devos-education-n717836">in a tie-breaking vote</a>, history was made as you were elected the United States Secretary of Education. I guess that means congratulations are in order. And seeing as you're a fellow woman I guess I'm supposed to be even more pumped about you having such an influential part in the leadership of our country. You see, a few weeks ago thousands of women marched in an attempt to give our gender more equality, more power. And here you are today. Holding more power than I think you fully understand in your hands. Yay for the home team right?<br />
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Except here's the thing, Mrs. DeVos. Apart from being a woman, you and I have very little else in common. At least we did until yesterday. Now our worlds seemed to have collided in a big way. You see, as you sat at the capital yesterday in your tailor-made suit preparing to make history, I sat cross-cross apple sauce in a Title 1 school, in clearance rack Old Navy pants, preparing to make the future. I'm a public school first grade teacher and yesterday, in a way, you apparently became my boss.<br />
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All of that being said, I felt like maybe I should tell you a little bit about myself and my job. It seems you don't fully understand what it means to be a public school teacher, and that's okay as I don't fully understand what it means to be a political figure. It's just that, with your new title, I feel it might be beneficial to at least have some idea of who and what you're representing.<br />
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I graduated magna cum laude from a four-year university with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. I have to be "highly qualified" to get a job as a teacher and my college degree was just the start. I attend countless trainings and professional development courses each year to stay up to date in my field and keep my "highly qualified" status. Many of these trainings occur in the summer, on my time off, and happen without extra compensation. I also get observed and evaluated multiple times a year by my administration. Occasionally, during accreditation years, I get observed and evaluated by other really official people. Did you know that public schools go through accreditation processes? You know, to make sure we're still doing a good enough job.<br />
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Remember those clearance rack Old Navy pants I mentioned earlier? I'd love to say I wear those to work every week because I'm a really good budgetor who just loves a good deal. But the truth of the matter is, my miniscual paycheck doesn't have room for tailor-made suits no matter how hard I try to stretch each penny. You see, my husband is also a public school teacher, which here in NC is like a death nail on financial prosperity. I, fortunately, got an education scholarship to go to college and get "highly qualified" but NC has since done away with that education scholarship program. So, like many of my other public school educator friends, student loans are another bill we must cover with that teeny tiny paycheck we receive each month.<br />
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My personal paycheck isn't the only thing getting slighted each year. The funding public schools receive each year continues to plummet. Positions are cut constantly and resources aren't updated the way they need to be. You know what's not decreasing though Mrs. DeVos? The amount of children that still need to go to school. So while <a href="http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2017/01/19/some-north-carolina-schools-may-cut_ap.html">Art, Music, and PE programs are being cut</a> and teacher assistant positions are disappearing, <a href="http://www.publicschoolsfirstnc.org/resources/fact-sheets/the-impact-of-the-2016-2017-state-budget/">class sizes are growing</a>. Have you ever tried to teach 25 Kindergartners how to read by yourself Mrs. DeVos? I watch my friends do it daily. And surprisingly enough, Mrs. DeVos, they're successful a lot of the time.<br />
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But Mrs. DeVos, the things I want you to know about me and my job don't have anything to do with the trainings I attend or the money I receive. It has to do with the one and only reason I continue to do what I do each day. The kids. I'm not quite sure when public education become synonymous with bad education but from where I stand, which is a pretty relevant place, it's just not true.<br />
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Remember how I mentioned teaching at a Title 1 school? As part of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA - acronyms are BIG in education, you should start studying up) <a href="http://ed.gov/">"schools with high numbers or high percentages of children from low-income families" receive financial assistance to help "ensure that all children meet challenging state academic standards."</a> Its kind of a sweet deal except when even that additional funding continues to decrease (see above). It also means that a lot of my students need more during their school day than just ABCs and 123s. Food to fill their bellies, warm clothes, hugs and encouragement that they may or may not be getting at home. Parents in my community are working multiple jobs with crazy hours just to pay the bills. Children in my school community are worrying about responsibilities that go far beyond reading and writing. As their teacher, it's my job to help ease that burden in anyway I can. Even when, at times, it means veering away from the curriculum I'm required to teach, the one I'm observed on in order to keep my job. Or if it means using my own money to purchase something for my classroom. Because remember how heavy my pockets are? <br />
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Are you beginning to see the double edged sword we public educators deal with each day, Mrs. DeVos? Am I painting a clear enough picture of how interconnected each issue is?<br />
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I've wanted to be a teacher my whole life (except for that short time in middle school when I was convinced I could host my own interior design TV show) and during that time I've had to defend why. <i>Why would you want to teach? You could be anything you want to be - why settle? There's so many other jobs where you could make more money.</i> You want to know what I'm tired of doing, Mrs. DeVos? I'm tired of defending my job. My job that creates all the other jobs. My job that requires me to sacrifice time with my own daughter to help nurture and love other sons and daughters. My job that often keeps me up at night. My job that is constantly devalued and underestimated. My job that I continue to show up for, day in and day out.<br />
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Mrs. DeVos, you made history yesterday and are trending all over social media. You are in a very opportune position to either a) continue this false rhetoric that public schools are failing our children or b) put your support behind the thousands of public educators who are fighting on the front lines for our children.<br />
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My job is hard Mrs. DeVos, as I'm sure your's is too. But my job is needed. My job is important. And my job means the world to me.<br />
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I would love to give you my support, Mrs. DeVos. In fact, I'm pretty easily swayed. And my request to you is a simple one. Change the story on public education. Throw your support behind me and my fellow educators. I promise you once that's done, you'll have the biggest group of cheerleaders you could imagine.<br />
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Until then I'll be hanging out in Room 307, with some of the best first graders I know.<br />
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Sincerely,</div>
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A proud public educator</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com67tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-92211091779791056692015-02-22T18:27:00.001-08:002015-02-24T14:23:51.297-08:00Currently<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Saying</b> : Yes, I am still alive. Contrary to what my inexcusable absence on this blog might have indicated. I started reading blogs again (something I haven't done since before Christmas...<i>sorry friends</i>) which brings back the itch to write a little bit. I'm not making any promises though.<br />
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<b>Watching</b> : Robbie and I just finished <i>Friends</i> on Netflix and y'all. I love it so much. We've seen nearly every episode at least three times but we inevitably still laugh just as hard every time we watch it. And the end. Ugh...I can't even.<br />
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<b>Listening </b>: to Ed Sheeran. I've decided he is my new favorite artist. And if you're getting married anytime soon and <i>not</i> dancing to "Thinking Out Loud", you're doing something wrong.<br />
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<b>Reading</b> : <i>The Wonderful Wizard of Oz</i> with my firsties. I don't read for pleasure. #sorrynotsorry. I like reading and obviously think it is extremely valuable (I teach first grade after all) but I don't read in my free time. However, I love love LOVE any and every opportunity I get to read out loud to my kiddies. We're finishing up our <b>Winds of Change</b> unit where we focus on the changing characters in the Wizard of Oz and it is quite possibly my favorite ELA unit of the year!<br />
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<b>Eating</b> : Everything in sight. We had two "ice days" last week which couldn't have come at a <strike>better</strike> worse time. Time off from school + cold weather + a ridiculous amount of leftover Valentine's candy = 5 unwanted pounds.<br />
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<b>Wishing</b> : That is wasn't Sunday night and I could relive this weekend over instead of going to school tomorrow.<br />
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<b>~</b><br />
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I know it's been forever since I've blogged. I felt so disconnected from it lately. And I don't want this space to be something forced. But at the same time I do miss hanging out in this little corner of the web. I have so much to share and so much to say and so many thoughts that I need to get out. But the thing is, right now. I don't know how.<br />
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A lot has happened since the last time I blogged in December. Things I'm still trying to process. Things I want to be able to share via blogging.....eventually. I don't know if I'm there yet. Getting in the "routine" of blogging again might help, even if it is silly pointless posts for a while.<br />
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We'll see...<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-92035084082973489422014-12-02T05:00:00.000-08:002014-12-02T05:00:08.176-08:00Some things never change.Like my inability to blog on a regular basis now.<br />
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However, since the last time you heard from me, I've been up to the same old tricks.<br />
No worries.<br />
But as it is December aka the last month of 2014 aka where the heck did the time go (?!) I realized I might want to have some documentation of all the same ole same ole I've been up to lately.<br />
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Let's back up shall we...<br />
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<b>October</b> was a blur of month - as it usually is - full of fried food, pumpkin carvings, and costumes. You know, the usual October shenanigans.<br />
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Our jack-o-lantern lasted a whole week this year before it rotted and caved in, which is a standing record for us. #encproblems<br />
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I saw several ways to "preserve" your pumpkin and had every intention of trying them out. Except not really. Because ain't nobody got time to rub Vaseline all over a jack-o-lantern. That thing is lucky it got carved.<br />
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We celebrated Silly Sock Day at school on Halloween - which was a Friday and a half day, thank goodness. My kids had earned their first compliment party of the year and they voted to have a barefoot day in the room so we kicked our shoes off at the door and spent the day slipping and sliding around in our silly sock feet.<br />
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Sidenote - it never ceases to amaze me how excited these kids get over the littlest of things. A barefoot day was completely their idea and they thought it was the coolest thing!<br />
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Oh and we made this "Witches' Brew" thanks to my classroom Volunteer - Aunt Debbie. I can't remember where I found it but I definitely can't take credit for the idea. </div>
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It was so fun mixing it up and passing it out. Plus I liked how it wasn't completely unhealthy.</div>
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Halloween weekend obviously involved lots of candy, costumes, and booze. We wouldn't have any other way around these parts.<br />
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Saturday morning was our Partners in Education Annual PIE Bowl. If you recall from the past few years, it's a fundraiser for our local schools as well as a chance to dress up and act completely silly. Oh yea, and some people actually bowl too. My school has won a prize every year that I've been there (either Best Spirit or Best Costume) so we've got a lot to live up to.<br />
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This year our theme was "Once Upon a PIE" so we dressed up as fairy tale characters. I was Snow White and recruited THE cutest dwarf ever.<br />
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There's so many new teachers at my school this year. PIE Bowl is always a good chance to get to know some of the people you work with that you might not normally spend a lot of time with. You know, because you're busy molding the minds of the future generation.<br />
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That night, Robbie and I had our Annual Halloween Party and it did not disappoint.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">{Recipes at the bottom}</span></div>
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Seriously, we have the best friends. It's nearly impossible to get together and <b>not</b> have a good time!<br />
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I was a vintage cheerleader. Apparently it was hard to tell? Willow stayed nakey all night. She is not a fan of costumes. #partypooper</div>
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November was brought in with a big, greasy breakfast and snuggles on the couch.<br />
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Halloween Mini-Recipes:</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">("Mini" because they're so easy, it doesn't seem fair to even justify a recipe. But we're just gonna go with it anyway, mmmkay?)</span></div>
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<b>Mummy Dogs </b>(Pigs in a Blanket)</div>
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- Lil Smokies </div>
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- Pillsbury Crescent Rolls</div>
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Cut crescent rolls into thirds. Wrap lil weenies. Bake according to crescent roll directions.</div>
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<b>Goblin Eyes </b>(Meatballs)</div>
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- Frozen Meatballs</div>
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- Sweet Baby Rays Honey BBQ sauce</div>
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Toss everything in a crockpot. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.</div>
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<b>Zombie Guts </b>(Queso Dip and chips)</div>
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- 2 lb hamburger meat</div>
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- one large box Velveeta cheese</div>
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- 1/2 can Rotel or Salsa</div>
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- 2 packs taco seasoning</div>
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Brown beef and add taco seasoning according to package. Cube Velveeta cheese. Add everything to a a crockpot. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until cheese is melted.</div>
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<b>Vampire Treats</b> (Cookies and Mini Pies)</div>
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- Store bought ha!</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-32011449385248095462014-11-17T05:00:00.000-08:002014-11-17T05:00:05.605-08:00I think I'm becoming a self-righteous teacher...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Robbie and I went to church last week for the first time in way too long.<br />
Ever since we've been married, we've struggled finding our "grown-up" church home.<br />
Consequently, we've spent the past three years hopping back and forth among several different churches. While we enjoy the different experiences we gain from attending different churches, we do miss the continuity of a permanent church family. Along with the continuity of regular attendance.<br />
<br />
But I'm getting off topic.<br />
The sermon this past week was based on <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2025:14-30">Matthew 25:14-30</a>, the Parable of the Talents and the risk that it takes to follow God and do His Will.<br />
And I realized something.<br />
Something that's been in the back of my head for a while, but something I'm finally ready to fully admit.<br />
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Anytime someone talks about ministry or using the talents God gives us or helping others, I immediately get on my high-horse because I'm a teacher.<br />
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By default, I help others everyday.<br />
I go above and beyond daily to give more to others than I do myself.<br />
I honestly believe that God called me to be a teacher and I'm fulfilling that calling every day.<br />
I sacrifice. I give. I love unconditionally.<br />
Every single day.<br />
Because it's my job. And my calling. And my passion.<br />
The passion that God gave me.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">But is it enough?</span></i><br />
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I've questioned this before but today this question is coming from a different frame of reference.<br />
Am I playing it safe because I'm a teacher?<br />
Am I limiting myself? Am I turning down other opportunities to give more, do more, be more, because I'm already giving, doing, being so much?<br />
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Admittedly, when Barnes & Noble asks if I want to donate a dollar to help give books to a child in need, I say no. Because I already "donate" multiple dollars to buy multiple books for multiple children in need, in the form of my classroom library and the scholastic books I give as Christmas gifts to my students each year.<br />
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I think sometimes I justify turning down mission trips or tithing opportunities or other stewardship deeds because I am already a steward in my classroom. <br />But maybe instead of justifying the things I already do, I should open my heart to what God wants me to do. Maybe being a steward in the classroom is enough. Maybe that's exactly where God wants to be and what God wants me to be doing.<br />
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<b>But maybe it's not.</b><br />
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Maybe He wants me to do more. And I've been so wrapped up in the good that I'm doing in my classroom (because even if it makes me sound a bit full of myself...I am doing good in my classroom) that I'm missing opportunities to do good in other places too.<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-65489057780006323562014-11-14T05:00:00.000-08:002014-11-14T05:00:05.272-08:00The Only Participation Prize I Agree WithI did it.<br />
<br />
I ran a half-marathon.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Almost a month ago, but that's neither here nor there.</span><br />
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The entire time I was running, I kept thinking about the epic blog post I would write <strike>bragging</strike> telling y'all all about it.<br />
<br />
I've been in a complete state of shock since about mile 9.<br />
I never <i>ever</i> had any desire to run a half-marathon.<br />
In fact, I distinctively remember having a conversation in February with one of the girls I teach with about our upcoming 5K Glow Run that went a little something like this...<br />
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<i>"It won't be that bad...it's not like it's something <b>stupid</b> like a half-marathon. Who would ever willingly run 13.1 miles anyway?"</i></div>
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Foot meet mouth.</div>
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Apparently, I am not that person who willingly runs 13.1 miles.</div>
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Well, the one who <i style="font-weight: bold;">ran</i> 13.1 miles. </div>
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I honestly don't know if it'll ever happen again. </div>
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I didn't train the way I was supposed to at. all. </div>
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And I guess technically, my time suffered because of that.</div>
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But really, who the eff cares? </div>
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By race day, I had one goal - to finish. </div>
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Well that, and not keel over and die.</div>
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Once I started running I knew I wanted to make it to at least mile 6 without stopping. A 10K. Totally doable, even with my lack of training. </div>
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Mile 6 came and went and I was still feeling pretty good so I kept going. </div>
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And going and going. </div>
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By about mile 10 I felt like dying forreal and started taking short little walking breaks.</div>
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At mile 11 I got scared I was getting lost. So I picked up the pace a little.</div>
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And by mile 12 I was almost tears. I had one mile left and knew I could do anything for one mile. </div>
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Little did I know, it was THEE longest mile of my life. That last stretch to the finish line felt like the never-ending Rainbow Race on Mario Kart. </div>
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Not only was Robbie waiting for me at the finish line, my mom was there with craisons. And let me tell you what. I have never loved craisons so good as I did in that moment. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwifBOgK2L2DD1zx8OQs-7oVUt7573iy2oPtS1T4zCo8w2cXvKiLD6u3BSPdpX1UYZsjLUO3qBH8KQhzWFe90rR2RwVl7ejVkQyL1mBCt_lpmxqInA5zgFJxxt8Q9pnEC8bwHcHLgHr70H/s1600/2014-10-18+09.28.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwifBOgK2L2DD1zx8OQs-7oVUt7573iy2oPtS1T4zCo8w2cXvKiLD6u3BSPdpX1UYZsjLUO3qBH8KQhzWFe90rR2RwVl7ejVkQyL1mBCt_lpmxqInA5zgFJxxt8Q9pnEC8bwHcHLgHr70H/s1600/2014-10-18+09.28.59.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I was also greeted with a big, shiny medal.</div>
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Now, usually I am not a fan of participation medals/trophies/awards/etc.</div>
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The winner gets a medal. </div>
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Everyone else gets the satisfaction of finishing. </div>
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Personally, I think it's doing our kids an injustice by not keeping scores at sporting events and not letting anyone "lose". It's sending the completely wrong message.</div>
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However, the satisfaction I felt of finishing was HUGE but I was equally as proud of having that medal. #sorrynotsorry</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwghuu1RrDgKdyE1s7cedlKMy26iwe6vhOtDENPKS6nBrNMs3623TOiecnBKgHVWQ7QrNbz392l3XSlB4JZ0XCZJt8PqIqhMc0ChuT4oxp9bOovktsjkQvcRFepE2mW1hTYWaiH4g7GESm/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwghuu1RrDgKdyE1s7cedlKMy26iwe6vhOtDENPKS6nBrNMs3623TOiecnBKgHVWQ7QrNbz392l3XSlB4JZ0XCZJt8PqIqhMc0ChuT4oxp9bOovktsjkQvcRFepE2mW1hTYWaiH4g7GESm/s640/photo+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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After meeting up with some other friends who also ran the race, cashing in my beer tickets <span style="font-size: x-small;">(which I thought I lost mid-run...yipes)</span>, and purchasing my obnoxious 13.1 car sticker, I devoured a huge hot hamburger plate <span style="font-size: x-small;">(at 10:30AM mind you)</span> and went home to take a 5 hour nap. I was exhausted. </div>
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My legs were screaming at me that night and it was slow moving on Sunday but by Monday I felt almost back to normal. A little sore but nothing terrible. </div>
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Finishing that race was quite possibly one of the most out of body things I've ever done. </div>
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It's still surreal to think that I actually ran 13.1 miles. </div>
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My final time was 2:22 which was slooooooow but steady. </div>
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8 months ago I was no where near "a runner". </div>
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It still even feels strange calling myself "a runner" and the fact that I haven't been running since the race probably supports that feeling. </div>
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But in a short amount of time, I set a goal, pushed myself completely out of my comfort zone, and accomplished that goal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9zmHH60KQqF1HFVw58aYJO5aN5zzr-vbFw29q-mpvw63XrmUlTFt53REaIMDzR2P2UoxGtTQwKlVmdX4CDn60WftdNOllcu7HefwOm-tQeaGfG6bR0lSPsZ7R-jO8OseeDIz6gPeRnSU/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9zmHH60KQqF1HFVw58aYJO5aN5zzr-vbFw29q-mpvw63XrmUlTFt53REaIMDzR2P2UoxGtTQwKlVmdX4CDn60WftdNOllcu7HefwOm-tQeaGfG6bR0lSPsZ7R-jO8OseeDIz6gPeRnSU/s640/photo+2.JPG" width="332" /></a></div>
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And got a medal!<br />
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P.S. I don't want to speak too soon, but I may or may not have given myself a goal to actually become a regular blogger again. Keep your fingers crossed.</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-5700894167970207142014-10-01T15:36:00.001-07:002014-10-01T15:36:59.492-07:00Look who showed up to playWell hello there blogger.com. Long time, no see. (Literally - I almost forgot my password.) For what it's worth I've written at least 25 blog posts in my head since the last time I actually showed up to type one out. Finding the time to type one out is proving the hard part.<br />
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As I sit here at 5:45 on a Wednesday night, drinking my second beer, I figured, why not actually try this whole blogging thing out again. So here we go.<br />
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I feel like I should at least update y'all on what's been going on in my life recently before I spill out some witty, yet pointless, post. Although after you read through what's been going on with me lately, you'll probably still consider it a pointless post.<br />
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I know the trend. Usually when bloggers take an unexplained leave of absence, they show up three months later with some Earth-shattering news. Like a pregnancy, or a career change, or a cross country move.<br />
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You should be able to figure out by the fact that I'm drinking at 5:45 on a Wednesday night that I am neither pregnant nor in a new career #teacherproblems. And I'll go ahead and kill the suspense for you...Robbie and I didn't move and we're not <i>really</i> planning to anytime soon. We still go house hunting at least once a month, you know, just for kicks and giggles. But again, that's nothing new.<br />
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Robbie's recovering nicely from his back surgery. Everything seems to be back to normal, which is such a relief. He's still not really supposed to do yard-work which means we are currently the disgrace of the neighborhood, because you know I'm not getting out there to do it.<br />
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We're officially a two pay-check family again, which is so nice. I never thought I'd be so excited about a NC Teacher's pay-check. And because of it, we've already called a landscaping guy to come fix the aforementioned problem.<br />
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The school year is in full swing and has brought some unexpected changes and challenges. That's the thing about teaching. It never <i>ever</i> stays the same. You, literally, start over every August. Which is a curse and a blessing. Sometimes I yearn for monotony.<br />
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I'm still working at BWW and yes, I'm probably a little bit crazy. But it's good money and usually pretty fun when I get there. Sleep is overrated anyway.<br />
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Football is going strong - across every domain. The tailgate crew is back in action and having a large time, as always.<br />
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I'm kicking butt and taking names in fantasy. And our Friday nights are once again spent at the high school football field, which I personally think is one of the best places to be.<br />
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I'm "training" for a half-marathon...kind of. I've signed up for one. And I've been working on running longer distances. I still don't feel anywhere close to prepared. But YOLO. My mom's afraid I'm going to croak out and die before it's all over with. I'm just hoping there's free beer at the finish line. Or at least a free protein bar. We'll find out in t-minus 3 weeks. Yikes.<br />
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I'm obsessed with almonds now. And Katy Perry's This is How We Do. Just FYI.<br />
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A few weeks ago, I joined a Bible Study with a group of girls and it's actually one of the highlights of my week. Admittedly, I still don't know where any of the books in the Bible are. If only I could remember that song we learned in Sunday School when I was little. But the table of contents works just fine. And I'm loving the fellowship.<br />
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All my siblings are in college right now. Which is pretty cool and depressing all at the same time.<br />
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My mom and step-dad finally sold their house - the house I grew up in - and are now renting the cutest little house while they build their "forever" home. It's surreal to think about someone else living in my childhood house but it's super exciting to see mom and Wave building their dream house together. Also, they still live 2.7 miles away (Literally. I run there often.) so not much has changed.<br />
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And that pretty much sums it up.<br />
Not much has changed. Yet, in someways, everything has.<br />
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Things at school are very different.<br />
Things at home are very different.<br />
But still kind of just the same too.<br />
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It's a new month. And it's one of my favorite months. Possibilities are endless.<br />
Who knows, you may even get a blog post out of me more than once in a blue moon.<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-50471909792856179392014-08-25T03:14:00.000-07:002014-08-25T03:14:37.008-07:00Some Southern StyleWell folks, it's official. Back to school is kicking my tail. And today's only the first day <i>with</i> kids. Last week was a whirlwind, dusting the cobwebs off of summertime and setting up for another busy year ahead.<br />
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The end of summer is always bittersweet. It's nice to get back into a routine. I just wish that routine didn't start at 5:15 in the morning.<br />
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I also always wish I had had more time to get things done around the house. Remember that<a href="http://delightfullydunn.blogspot.com/2014/07/whadup-july.html"> summer to-list</a> I created? Yea...well, as usual, I veered off a bit and still have quite a few unchecked boxes. But I think I figured out my problem - my crafty eyes are always bigger than my patience. I have all these great ideas and then I realize how hard, and time consuming, executing them really is. Plus, nine times out of ten, the vision I have in my head is much better than what actually comes out.<br />
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That's why I am thankful for creative ladies like the one behind <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SomeSouthernStyle">Some Southern Style</a>. She not only has the amazing vision but she also has the skill to bring those visions to life.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SomeSouthernStyle">Nicole</a> specializes in custom pieces and turning old, boring furniture into true works of art. I seriously have found myself scrolling through her Facebook pictures in awe.<br />
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Up-cycled furniture is such a big thing right now. And for someone who comes from a family obsessed with antiques, it's something I personally love. Being able to take a piece and turn it into something new and unique to your home and your decor style is like the best of both worlds.<br />
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It's just hard to do on your own. Trust me, I've tried.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SomeSouthernStyle">Some Southern Style</a> also has the cutest pallet signs and canvases you could ever think of. And they're all custom ordered to your liking. Perfect for home decor or even adding that personalized touch to a wedding.<br />
<br />
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If you're like me, you can sit back in your world of denial and tell yourself that you'll eventually get around to re-doing that piece of furniture or you'll just paint something to fill that empty space on the wall above your couch. But let's be real. You won't. And neither will I. And if you do, you'll quickly remember how bad of a painter you are and you'll be disappointed in the "finished" product. </div>
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Let's save us all the trouble and let <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SomeSouthernStyle">Nicole</a> help us out. She's got the real talent, plus she's just so stinkin cute and nice to work with. She'll put in the hard work <i>and</i> make it look ten times better than you ever could on your own. </div>
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And while you're at it, go ahead and order this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SomeSouthernStyle/photos/a.440841576035232.1073741833.402635859855804/600778140041574/?type=3&theater">china cabinet</a>. Can you say gorgeous? You know you want it.</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-55243290925650038572014-08-16T13:25:00.000-07:002014-08-16T13:25:16.480-07:00A Shift in Perspective<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I'm going to skip the "sorry I've been MIA" speech for now. I'm afraid that line is getting a bit redundant. My bad.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<br />
The best thing happened to me today.<br />
Like so good....I was literally brought to tears.<br />
And obviously encouraged to blog all about it.<br />
<br />
This summer I did what <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">unfortunately</span> a lot of teachers do, I picked up a summer job.<br />
I'm fortunate enough to teach in a county that will be take my ten-month salary and spread it out through twelve-months so I still get a paycheck in the summer.<br />
Which is a God send for "budgetly-challenged" folks like myself.<br />
<br />
But having some extra cash has been so nice.<br />
And almost a necessity after the past few months.<br />
<br />
I got a job waiting tables and I actually really do enjoy it, all things considered.<br />
It's so different than teaching, which is exactly what I need.<br />
Plus I get to interact with a bunch of different people, which <i>most of the time</i> is pretty fun.<br />
<br />
I worked the lunch shift today and admittedly was kind of dreading it.<br />
When I say I enjoy waiting tables...I don't mean I <b>love</b> waiting tables.<br />
But I had a table today, that completely altered my mood and has given me a whole new perspective on things.<br />
<br />
There was a table close by with two kids, one of which was going into first grade.<br />
I told him that I was a first grade teacher and that obviously first grade was the best grade.<br />
We chatted about that a bit and then I moved on.<br />
<br />
My other table had overheard the conversation and started talking to me about it.<br />
Turns out the lady at the table was a former third grade teacher.<br />
She had gotten out of the profession for the many reasons that so many others do.<br />
<br />
Unrealistic standards and expectations.<br />
Ridiculously low pay.<br />
Unnecessary politics.<br />
Very little to no respect.<br />
Limited resources and support.<br />
The list goes on and on.<br />
<br />
We chatted about some of that but also talked about how admirable the profession is.<br />
And talked about all the good that's in it...that not every one always sees. <i>Teachers included</i>.<br />
<br />
When they left and I went to clear their table, I found my tip, which was extremely generous.<br />
But I also found a note.<br />
And the note is what meant more than anything else ever could.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>"Thanks for what you do. Keep touching lives."</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It was written on their credit card slip, so I couldn't save it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But the words are ingrained in my heart.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Not because the words are all that profound, or even because they're words I've never heard before.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It was just something about seeing them today.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
At my second job. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Two days before I start back at school.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It is so easy to get wrapped up in all the bullshit <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">yep, I said it</span> that comes with teaching and public education. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's hard. It's not ever fair.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's actually quite depressing 98% of the time.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When I graduated and started teaching, I just knew I'd stay in it forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now, I admittedly take it year by year. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But there's a voice inside of me. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's inside of every teacher.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's not very loud and it gets drowned out a lot.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But it's saying <b>"keep touching lives"</b>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Because whether I see it or not, that's what I'm doing. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I knew going into teaching that I wouldn't make a lot of money.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Does that justify politicians continuing to stiff my pay? No, not at all.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Does the fact that I knew I wouldn't make a lot of money make it okay that I've got to get a second job to make ends meet? Definitely not.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But, it is what it is. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And that's what I was reminded of today.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Other people <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(who don't always know what they're talking about)</span> can dictate my pay, can dictate what I teach, can dictate how I judge a student's success. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But they can't <b>ever</b> stop me from touching lives. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As a new school year arrives, much too quickly, I'm going to keep that voice loud and up front. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The one that's telling me I'm touching lives. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That's the perspective I want to focus on. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
All the other stuff is going to be pushed to the side for now.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
With all this being said, I completely understand why people leave teaching.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I know people, who are amazing teachers, who have left. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Not because they stopped listening to the voice inside of them. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But because they gained another voice. One telling them there's a better way for them to touch lives.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And I believe each one of them will.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That's the thing about teachers. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We're doing what we're doing because it's ingrained in us. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The outlet most of us choose to use is a school.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until that one doesn't work for us anymore. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then we find another outlet for all our good life-changing lessons and hot-glue craft projects. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One day, the rest of society will hopefully realize that. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I just hope the schools aren't empty of all the great teachers by then.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
For all the teachers getting ready to start school,</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
and the ones that have already gone back <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(ack)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
don't let others drown out the voice.</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b>Keep touching lives.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<br />Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-57401451161448933572014-07-28T07:15:00.002-07:002014-07-28T07:15:43.661-07:00Things That (do and don't) Burn My Biscuit Things that do burn my biscuit....<br />
<br />
- Working during the day. Especially when it's sunny and 85. The. Worst.<br />
<br />
- People who publicly start countdowns wayyyy too early. <i>"385 days until I say I do." </i>Hello? 385 days is still a long ass time. Public countdowns should not begin until we're in at least in double digits.<br />
<br />
- The fact that so many people are already back at school setting up their classrooms. For one, it's too soon. Summer is still in full force...get out and enjoy it. For two, you're making the rest of us look like super slackers.<br />
<br />
- When other people aren't on time.<br />
<br />
- Crickets that chirp incessantly outside my bedroom window.<br />
<br />
- The fact that I haven't been running in over a week <i style="font-weight: bold;">and</i> the fact that that bothers me.<br />
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- People who jump on bandwagons just for the sake of jumping on the bandwagon.<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~</span></b></div>
<br />
Things that do <i>not</i> burn my biscuit (and instead make me happy, happy, happy)...<br />
<br />
- Dinners and drinks with teacher friends. <i>Le duh.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
- The Leadership Training I went to last week. So much good information. So many fun people. So much motivation for the year to come (that I'm bottling up and saving until August because summer is still in full force; <i>see above</i>.)<br />
<br />
- Redbox movie nights at home with my family.<br />
<br />
- Finally <strike>having</strike> making time for crafting.<br />
<br />
- Robbie. Over and over again.<br />
<br />
- Coming home to freshly mowed grass (thanks Carter).<br />
<br />
- When <a href="http://www.hodgespodges.com/2014/07/a-huge-announcement.html">blog friends</a> write real books and get them published for the whole world to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Yeah-maybe-Joey-Hodges-ebook/dp/B00M0PK1H0/ref=la_B00M1JFO04_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1406101502&sr=1-1">buy</a> and read and love!<br />
<br />
- Holding brand new babies.<br />
<br />
- Listening to Pandora All. The. Time.<br />
<br />
- Photobooths (only because these pictures are too funny not to share.)<br />
<br />
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<br />Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-39889470992716065662014-07-23T04:30:00.000-07:002014-07-23T04:30:02.121-07:00Dear RobbieToday marks our three year wedding anniversary. <i style="font-weight: bold;">How</i> has is already been three years?<br />
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Weren't we just leaving Tryon Palace, calling our parents, telling them that we were engaged?<br />
And here we are - three years, two houses, one unemployment, three jobs, two careers, one back surgery, four cars, and countless kisses later. I couldn't imagine doing life with anyone other than you. I'm not sure I would even know how.<br />
<br />
I am so blessed to have you as my husband and as my best friend. I have fallen in love with you harder than I ever thought I could.<br />
<br />
Words can't express how proud I am of all you've accomplished, particularly in this past year. I know it's been crazy and nothing like we were expecting, but it has been perfect in every way. I wouldn't change one thing about these past three years even if I could.<br />
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I am so thankful for the way you love me, take care of me, make me laugh, and keep me safe. I am reassured everyday that God handpicked you for me and I could not be luckier to have you in my life.<br />
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Thanks for sitting through countless hours of Netflix marathons with me, for not laughing <u>too</u> hard at the ridiculous History questions I ask you, for being the best laundry folder in all the land, for making sure all our bills get paid on time because you know I have a mental block against numbers and deadlines, and really just for being you.<br />
<br />
I can't wait to spend the next three times 30 years with you!<br />
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Love, M</div>
Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-8343395126609291492014-07-22T08:00:00.000-07:002014-07-22T08:00:00.666-07:00You'll Never Guess What I Did.<br />
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<br />
Meet Juan.<br />
The friendliest fish I've ever met.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Besides my college pet fish Bartholemew (RIP). </span><br />
<br />
Swimming with dolphins is something we've always wanted to do but every other time we've had the chance it's been ridiculously expensive. We never really thought it would be worth it.<br />
In Cancun, it was included in our room credits, if we wanted to do it. So, obviously, we all signed up.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Robbie couldn't go because of his back surgery, which was the only bad part. </span><br />
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<br />
I was terrified.<br />
I have an irrational fear of sharks.<br />
And therefore, am not a huge fan of the ocean.<br />
I love love <i>love</i> the beach, but I'm fine laying in the sand or just wading in the water.<br />
I have no interest in swimming out deep with all the critters.<br />
The first time I went snorkeling in high school, I chewed a hole right through my mouthpiece because I was grinding my teeth so hard.<br />
So swimming right beside, touching, and kissing an actual dolphin was quite possibly the most nerve-racking thing ever.<br />
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But it was also <b>so cool</b>.<br />
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Our instructor taught us a lot about dolphins.<br />
He actually reminded me of one of my students last year who was fascinated with all things "ocean animals" and would spit out these random facts about them to me any time I'd listen.<br />
Like did you know, dolphins have belly buttons?<br />
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<br />
Anyway...Juan was great and it was quite the experience.<br />
However, we all learned that a family of mermaids, we are <b>not</b>.<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-68174421320622331522014-07-21T06:00:00.000-07:002014-07-21T06:00:10.517-07:00#StedunbertsDoMexico<br />
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The whole fam damily. </div>
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Y'all. I don't even know where to begin.<br />
There is not an adjective in the book to adequately describe our trip to Mexico.<br />
<i>Wonderful</i> will have to do, but even that doesn't quite do it justice.<br />
<br />
A little back story in case you're new around these parts....<br />
<br />
My parents separated when I was 15 <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(whomp whomp)</span> and it was then that my mom decided to start making meaningful memories with our "new" family unit. Not that the memories we had before weren't meaningful, we just needed some new ones. That summer my mom, my brother, and I went on a cruise and just like that we were hooked. White sandy beaches, clear blue water, all you could eat buffets. Sign us up.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to my sophomore year of college when my mom got remarried and we gained not only a stepfather but two new step-siblings. Another shift in family dynamic meant another need for "new family" memories.<br />
<br />
My mom and stepdad knew that with four busy teenage schedules, coordinating a week alone would be difficult. We took a few week-long trips to the beach, but living only 45 minutes away meant everyone was constantly coming and going or bringing friends for the day or something else that restricted us from completely "unplugging" as a family of six (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">seven once Robbie officially came along</span>).<br />
<br />
Dragging us out of the country seemed to be the only logical option. Plus finding something all-inclusive was a no-brainer in the money department.<br />
<br />
Cue the <a href="http://delightfullydunn.blogspot.com/2012/07/im-baaaaaaack.html">Domincan Republic in 2012</a>. Our first official "Stedunbert" <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(our mixed family name)</span> vacation. We hadn't been there two days before we already knew we were going to have to plan another, equally amazing all-inclusive family vacation.<br />
<br />
Which brings us to today, well a month ago...when we traveled to the Moon Palace in Cancun, Mexcio.<br />
<br />
The food was delicious.<br />
The pools were beautiful.<br />
The alcohol was unlimited.<br />
The people were amazing.<br />
<br />
Overall, it was another perfect trip.<br />
<br />
Disclaimer: My camera stayed in the room during the day because I was a bum and didn't feel like carrying anything around. Sooooo I have zero pictures of the actual resort, pools, beach, etc. I think my stepdad has some on his camera that might make an appearance in the near future.<br />
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5AM flight...ready to go!</div>
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As soon as we landed, my brother and I got a cold Corona. The only one I drank while there. It was the <b>domestic</b> beer on special, which kind of blew my mind. </div>
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Night one at the lobby bar. </div>
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"Mar" - my nickname!</div>
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Night two (I think).</div>
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The ladies. This was right before we ate at an Italian place. The food was delicious, but it was a little too fancy for me.</div>
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The cutest boys around.</div>
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Love my mama.</div>
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Brother/sister tequila shots. Judging by my face...this should have been the end of the night. It was not. I half way regretted that the next morning. </div>
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This might have been our last night? It all kind of runs together. </div>
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Our favorite bar by our favorite pool with our favorite bartender, Alberto (not in the picture). </div>
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Live and die by the swing bar.</div>
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I really wanted this sombrero ha. We snagged a picture instead. </div>
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KKCO in Mexico. #hottie</div>
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A few notes: Robbie and I traveled all-inclusive for our honeymoon for the first time and we are both such huge advocates for it now. It's a lot of money up front and airfare kicks you in the gut every time <i>(woof) </i>but it is worth every penny and more.<br />
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The simple fact that you don't have to worry about money <b>at all</b> once you get there is enough peace of mind for me, the girl who subconsciously keeps a running record of everything spent in her head.<br />
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We've now been the Hard Rock in Punta Cana, DR and the Moon Palace in Cancun, Mexico and both of these offered such a wide variety of <i>everything. </i>There's literally something for everyone. And it's all included. Massages, manicures, pedicures, paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling.<br />
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If you're feeling adventurous there are a ton of different "excursions" you can sign up for (two years ago my stepdad and brother swam with sharks)! Or if you're looking for some serious R&R, you can take your pick of pools, park your tush, and enjoy the free drinks coming your way.<br />
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And the food. Y'all. The. Food. There are so many different types of food, you're guaranteed to find something you like. My mouth is still watering over the sushi we ate while we were in Cancun.<br />
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Obviously the best part of our vacation was the time we got to spend together. We're all so close, it doesn't take a lot for us to have fun together. It's fun to be able to experience new things together. It's also, always nice, to be able to "escape" for a little while.<br />
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And what better place to escape to than something this beautiful?<br />
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Come back tomorrow because yes, I am actually blogging AND I have one more really cool thing to tell you about Mexico!<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-37110487048436171822014-07-10T05:00:00.000-07:002014-07-10T05:00:02.448-07:00Football Wife - Tami Taylor, Watch Out"54 days till football season."<br />
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Those were the first words I heard the other morning from my sweet, sweet husband. </div>
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<i>Good morning to you to my dear.</i></div>
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<i>Wee wittle babes.</i></div>
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Football is a <b>big</b> deal in our house. </div>
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Schedules and budgets revolve around football games.</div>
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Once upon a time, I wanted to have a fall wedding. </div>
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But was quickly told that could never happen.</div>
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We recently got rid of cable.</div>
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Which means we got rid of our ginormous sports package. </div>
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It hasn't been a big deal so far, however fall is quickly approaching </div>
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and I can feel Robbie's anxiety rising at the thought of missing some game on ESPN.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Don't get me wrong...I love it and couldn't imagine our lives any other way.<br />
Our "football family" are some of the best friends we have.<br />
And the Saturdays we spend tailgating are too fun for words.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsDaKr0h2ztKmjMYpY7ud96izwLVB-_I17BALLWqfQcx2VP5gL-dOc1vQDRwkYfijy9CyEDcTc8xLiEY2hNA4U_2BDHtf0_TkBXVP94ipfPrPDNVhyphenhyphen4VO-kq37DzFCWorJRHKFyCrt7hd/s1600/DSCN3033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsDaKr0h2ztKmjMYpY7ud96izwLVB-_I17BALLWqfQcx2VP5gL-dOc1vQDRwkYfijy9CyEDcTc8xLiEY2hNA4U_2BDHtf0_TkBXVP94ipfPrPDNVhyphenhyphen4VO-kq37DzFCWorJRHKFyCrt7hd/s1600/DSCN3033.JPG" height="480" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></div>
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Plus, there's something totally hot about seeing Robbie so passionate about something.</div>
<div>
He literally lights up anytime he talks about a game or a play or a team or something else I don't always understand.<br />
But his passion for it is probably one of my favorite things, and one of the things that makes me love it so much too.<br />
Well that and all the delicious tailgating food.<br />
<br />
The obsession is about to take on a whole new meaning as we kick it up a notch in the Dunn household.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://delightfullydunn.blogspot.com/2014/05/let-me-just-get-this-out-there.html">Robbie got a job</a>!<br />
And not just <i>a</i> job, <i>the </i>job.<br />
The job we prayed for and wanted for him, without even really knowing we wanted it.<br />
<br />
He'll be teaching high school American History at a school about 35 minutes from our house.<br />
<i>And</i> he'll be coaching football.<br />
So many dreams come true.<br />
Because you see, as passionate as Robbie is about football, he's equally passionate about History.<br />
That same light comes on his eyes anytime he talks about it.<br />
After all the struggles that we've been through these past few years, and after all the hard work I've watched Robbie put into this, I am so proud to finally see him doing something that he not only loves, but is called to do.<br />
He is going to be an amazing teacher to those students, both on and off the field and I could not be prouder.<br />
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I also don't hate the fact that I am one step closer to fulfilling my dream of becoming Tami Taylor. ;)<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-2541744099328232212014-07-09T08:15:00.003-07:002014-07-09T08:15:47.032-07:00All I know is...<div>
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...<a href="http://heyhollywoodblog.blogspot.com/">Holly</a> always has the best blog ideas ever. Snaps to her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
...season 1 of <i>Keeping Up With The Kardashians </i>is pure TV gold. </div>
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<br /></div>
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...my Mexican vacay recap is typed and ready to publish....as soon as I upload pictures. Because really why would you want to read about Mexico when you can look at Mexico instead?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
...my inability to sit around and do nothing is really a problem. And for some strange reason the only solution I see to that problem is to get another summer job waiting tables. Which, hypothetically, is fine. Until you know, the job actually starts. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
...<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJYqB9IxpJsQl9mFmJd28JQ">Lauren Fitz</a> has the most fun hip-hop Zumba videos on YouTube. I'm slightly obsessed. And I don't even typically like Zumba. </div>
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<br /></div>
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...I have no rhythm which makes my new found hip-hop Zumba obsession quite comical. Good thing Roxy and Willow can't laugh out loud.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
...if Willow's picky eating habits are any indication of how my future children are going to eat I am in for some serious trouble.</div>
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<br /></div>
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...homemade pancakes for breakfast taste just as yummy on a weekday as they do on a weekend. Just sayin.</div>
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Happy Hump Day y'all!</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-77098863740617920722014-07-07T08:34:00.003-07:002014-07-07T08:34:53.467-07:00I love America <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: I really had every intention of blogging everyday last week but obviously that didn't happen. I'm trying, I promise.</span><br />
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I wanted to recap our trip to Mexico because I still haven't done that and I think it would be good for the whole grieving process I'm currently going through as I withdrawal from unlimited drinks, food, and sunshine. However, after such a patriotic weekend it didn't seem quite right to pay tribute to another country. No worries, that will happen tomorrow.<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~</span></b></div>
<br />
July 4th.<br />
I have such a love/hate relationship with this holiday.<br />
Obviously I love America and I love any excuse to eat hot dogs and drink beer and enjoy all of the other freedoms I'm able to because of the selfless people who put their lives on the line for little ole me.<br />
But living so close to the beach and smack dab between two rivers I kind of hate the hoards of people that flock to the pool/beach/dock on July 4th. It's a tad overwhelming.<br />
Also, my history-loving husband looooooves to focus on every technicality that comes with this holiday, sucking the fun out of all of it.<br />
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Either way....I can hang with the best of them, which is exactly what we did.<br />
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I braved the 3908457 splashing kids at the pool Friday afternoon. Then Robbie and I met up with some friends out in the "<a href="http://delightfullydunn.blogspot.com/2013/09/im-from-country-and-i-kind-of-like-it.html">country</a>". Something about July 4th makes me want to be around big, open fields.<br />
After meeting their four pet chickens and learning about egg fertilization, we enjoyed hamburgers on the grill, corn hole in the backyard, and shut gunned beers on the porch. #merica.<br />
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Saturday we rearranged our living room (I'm on a kick and can't get enough) then met up with some friends at the pool (with only one <i>totes adorbs</i> splashing kid) before scooting back down the county with my dad to enjoy a low country boil with cousins. After everyone else went off to watch fireworks, Robbie and I headed back into town to meet up with some friends for cards, beer, and lots of laughs. And pretzels...we ate a lot of pretzels.<br />
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Sunday was a pretty laid back day. My mom and step-dad have recently sold their house and are now going through the never-ending process of cleaning out and packing up 22 years and one blended family's worth of stuff. It is being quite the chore and all hands are on deck so I spent some time Sunday afternoon helping with that. Let me tell you...the stuff we've found could be a blog post in and of itself. It's been interesting to say the least.<br />
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Now here we are, Monday again. And I've created a long list of "to-dos" for the week. "Watch Netflix" is not on it. Time to be a productive member of society again. We'll see how it goes.<br />
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<br />Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-59724244364062028912014-07-01T09:59:00.003-07:002014-07-01T09:59:52.540-07:00Whadup July?Holy July batman!<div>
How is it already July?</div>
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Don't get me wrong, normally I love the start of a new month. </div>
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There are few better feelings than turning over a blank page in my planner.</div>
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But in the summer, I feel like the pages turn way too fast. </div>
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And I just love summer so much...I don't want it to be over. Ever.</div>
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Wahhhh.</div>
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Anywho...I feel like now that it's July my summer has officially started. </div>
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I know technically, I've been out of school since the 6th of June.</div>
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But with workdays and trainings and then our Mexican vacation I haven't really had much time to cross some items off my summer to-do list...until now. </div>
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I normally hate these monthly goal posts mainly because I suck at actually keeping them, </div>
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but there are several things that I want to get done this summer before school starts back up.</div>
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Plus I made this cute little checklist (because I have way too much time on my hands) to stick on my fridge and keep me on track.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Shred, White, and Blue Challenge found <a href="http://glistenfit.com/calendar/your-new-july-workout-calendar/">here</a>. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Clip Art found <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Krista-Wallden">here</a>.</span></div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-27434728710782789972014-06-30T10:43:00.003-07:002014-06-30T10:43:54.475-07:00Guess who back, back, back again?It's meeeee!<br />
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Y'all, I have missed this little piece of blogland.<br />
So so so much has been going on since I last popped in (30488098 years ago).<br />
<br />
First and foremost, it's officially summer time and the livin is easy.<br />
If I've said it once, I've said it a hundred times. Having the summers off is so nice.<br />
<br />
We wrapped up the school year with awards, end of year parties, our favorite school memories, silly string, happy dances, talent shows, and lots of other end of first grade shenanigans. This past school year has honestly been my favorite to date. Don't get me wrong...I have loved every single student I've ever taught. And the end of year always brings time for reflection and gratitude for everything I've learned from each set of crazy kiddos I've had. However, this group of kids touched my heart in such a different way than my other groups. I was reminded this year why I became a teacher. And as excited as I am for a break, I was a little sad to see the year come to an end.<br />
<br />
Anyway...with that being said. It did come to an end and after a week of workdays cleaning and packing my room plus two days of reading trainings, we packed our bags and took our crazy, dysfunctional blended family to Mexico.<br />
<br />
Yep, you read that right!<br />
Mexico!!<br />
<br />
I'll be posting several detailed recaps throughout the week (more than one post in a week say wha?) so be on the lookout for those.<br />
<br />
Until then all you need to know is it was wonderful and I've been in withdrawals ever since we got back. <i>Una cerveza por favor? </i>The views were breathtaking, the weather was perfect, and the people were <i>muy amable</i>.<br />
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I want to go back...like yesterday.<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-82583101629171738012014-06-03T04:00:00.000-07:002014-06-03T04:00:04.867-07:00The More Gangsta, the better. <br />
So...it's June. Which means my over-zealous workout Barbie goals of May are complete. Well kind of.<br />
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Let's review shall we.<br />
I started the #<a href="http://delightfullydunn.blogspot.com/2014/04/big-announcement.html">1800minuteschallenge</a> to complete 1800 minutes of physical activity in 60 days (which I know is technically much longer than just the month of May but it ended May 31 so I'm recapping it now.)<br />
I also started #<a href="http://delightfullydunn.blogspot.com/2014/05/its-like-im-workout-barbie-or-something.html">4weeksfit</a> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(I was all about a good hashtag challenge apparently)</span> where I set specific fitness goals for the month of May.<br />
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And here we are, my hashtag challenge timeline expired and it's time to fess up.<br />
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I failed. I mean, I didn't complete them the way I had planned. I mean, I blew them out of the water.<br />
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I'm a very goal-oriented person. But I'm also a very indecisive person. I tend to make my goals as they're happening instead of before getting started.<br />
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For example...the challenge of timing my workouts and wanting to reach 1800 minutes kept me motivated to stick to a regular workout routine. But my goal shifted from focusing on the duration of the workout to the intensity of it. All of a sudden, I became more motivated and interested in increasing my running speed and distance. Which, coincidentally was one of my 4 Weeks Fit goals. I didn't reach 1800 minutes. I didn't really get back on track with my gluten-free diet. I did better and I'd say I'm sitting at a solid <strike>70/30</strike> 60/40. #whompwhomp I didn't join a gym.<br />
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But even though I didn't reach those specific goals, I met others that I didn't even realize I had.<br />
And I realized things about myself that I hadn't before. And isn't that really the point?<br />
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For example, I ran 47.75 total miles in the month of May.<br />
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My typical "run" is a 3 mile route.<br />
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And I can do it in about 26 minutes on average. Which is 3 minutes faster than my last 5K time.<br />
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That's huge stuff y'all.<br />
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Saturday I ran 5.5 miles in about 50 minutes. And yesterday I did 4.5 (with Willow) in about 40 min.<br />
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And it's kind of easy. I mean I still spend a good portion of the whole thing convinced I'm dying, but I haven't keeled over yet. I remember when running non-stop to my mom's house (exactly 1 mile away) felt like a hug accomplishment. Because it was. Now I just have bigger accomplishments.<br />
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Also, my sense of direction has gotten a lot better since I've started running. I've lived in New Bern my whole life but I'll admit, I still get turned around in certain areas and street names? Fuggeduhboutit. But now that I'm running, I'm a lot more aware of where I am and where I'm going. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Literally and figuratively I guess.)</span><br />
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I've also learned that I get really pumped up if I can listen to vulgar rap music while I run. #turndownforwhat<br />
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Sex, drugs, and alchy-hawl? Check. The more f-bombs the better. Sorry mom. It just is what it is.<br />
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<b>~</b><br />
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Anyway...a little bit of bloggy chat for you. I realize that my posts lately have been a little sparse and probably a tad redundant. Right now I'm blaming in on the craziness that is the end of the school year.<br />
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But I have a confession to make....I don't <i>need</i> blogging like I used to and it shows.<br />
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When I started my blog I was in desperate need of an outlet. It was the end of my first year teaching, I was consumed by the stress and disappointment and reality of the career I had chosen for the rest of my life. Robbie and I had just moved back to our hometown and we're struggling with finding our "new grown-up" place in it. I was figuring out how to be a wife and share a home and pay real bills and take care of two very cute, but very needy dogs. I felt like I didn't know what I was doing and I needed something, un-school related to throw myself into for at least 30 minutes a day. And I did. And it worked. And I loved it.<br />
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Flash forward to now, the end of my third year teaching, my almost fourth year of marriage, and I'm in a completely different place in my life than I was two and half years ago. A better place. A more secure place. And in this place, I still love and enjoy blogging, but I don't need it and the "therapy" it provided for me like I used to. Which in a way is a bit of a celebration because I'm now more emotionally stable ha. But it is a change and I'm trying to carry the blog with me through that.<br />
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Like I said, I set and create goals as they're happening. So bear with me.<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-31652957290557707822014-06-02T14:52:00.002-07:002014-06-02T14:52:48.700-07:00It's Here! It's Here! It's Here!The last week of school <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">with kids</span> is finally here! And I could not be more....conflicted.<br />
Don't get me wrong - I am definitely ready for a break. Summer vacation is calling my name and it sounds so sweet.<br />
But there's a lot of changes coming up in the school year ahead and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little nervous about them.<br />
This year has been one of the best so far and I'd be perfectly happy jumping right back into it come August....after a nice, relaxing summer break of course.<br />
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Nevertheless, summer is coming and for me that means no more alarm clocks, packed lunches, and stuffy dress codes.<br />
I'll admit, having summers off gives me the tendency to become quite the bum.<br />
I have no problem spending my days in a bathing suit and cover up or shorts and a t-shirt.<br />
I occasionally also have no problem spending my days in my pjs but that's neither here nor there.<br />
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For me, summer has such a laid back feel.<br />
And my clothing style tends to match that mood.<br />
Getting "dressed up" is a big deal, and even then it's nothing extravagant.<br />
Having a fresh tan means less make-up and windblown "beachy" hair means less blowdrying.<br />
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In the past, sun dresses have been my weakness.<br />
But lately I have been swooning over cute shorts.<br />
There are so many cute colors and patterns that I can still <i>feel </i><strike>lazy</strike> laid-back while looking pretty darn cute. I consider that a win-win.<br />
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Meet a few of my fav styles.<br />
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{1.} Denim shorts are a staple, but I had a really hard time finding a pair I love. I recently found a pair very similar to <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-women-s-3-5-roll-cuff-shorts-medium-blue/-/A-15048325#prodSlot=medium_1_28&term=shorts">these</a> from Target and they're almost perfection. </div>
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{2.} Chino shorts are another staple. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Who am I kidding...all these shorts are staples apparently.) </span><a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shorts/solid/PRD~61456/61456.jsp?Nbrd=J&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=chino+shorts&isSaleItem=false&isFromSearch=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row3">JCrew</a> has the best, in my opinion, <i>but</i> I'm loving <a href="http://www.target.com/p/merona-women-s-chino-3-short-assorted-colors/-/A-15100275">these</a> from Target a whole lot too. And my wallet definitely loves them. Plus there are sooooo many different colors! I'll take one of each please and thank you.</div>
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{3.} Then there's all the fun styles and <a href="http://www.thebluedoorboutique.com/Tabitha-Shorts.html">patterns</a>. </div>
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{4.} I had to explain to someone what seersucker was the other day. Regardless, <a href="http://www.lillypulitzer.com/product/entity/7181.uts?keyword=Buttercup%20Scallop%20Hem%20Short&swatchName=Shorely+Blue+Lucky+Seersucker">these seersucker</a> shorts from Lily are to die for. And the scallop edges...be still my beating heart.<br />
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<b>~</b><br />
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Now, it only seems right to not just tell you about my favorite summer fashions but to also tell you about my favorite summer spending habits. Robbie and I work really hard <strike>throughout the school year</strike> all year to pinch every penny we can. Being a teacher's rough, y'all. But during the summer when I have a few extra minutes to <strike>breathe</strike> <strike>think</strike> make a few extra doll-hairs, life tends to be a little easier. </div>
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Something else that makes life a little easier. Gift cards. Robbie and I are both gift card hoarders. They are like gold at our house. (My birthday's in April, for future reference.) Something else we love at our house - online shopping. Which is why <a href="http://Raise.com/">Raise</a> is my new favorite obsession. It's a new marketplace where you can buy discounted gift cards to your favorite brands and sell your unused gift cards for cash. You know what that sounds like to me? Cha-ching - hello new clothes. And for me...hello new summer shorts in every color/pattern/print imaginable. Hell to the yes.</div>
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Happy shopping y'all.</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-57864097923935756082014-05-28T05:30:00.000-07:002014-05-28T05:30:02.486-07:00WeekendsRemember weekend recaps? Yea, those were fun. Remember when waiting until Wednesday to post your weekend recap was the cool thing to do? Oh, wait. That was just me? Whatevs. I'm bringing the weekend recap <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(three days late)</span> back.<br />
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Ah, Memorial Day weekend. The official start of summer...well kind of. The day when you can officially wear white again...if anyone besides my grandma even still follows that rule. The day where we all stop and enjoy the freedom to lay out by the pool and eat hot dogs on the grill thanks to the selfless sacrifices of our armed forces and their families.<br />
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Robbie is doing so good after his surgery. He's up and moving...just slowly. He can't drive yet and he has a fancy pants brace that he has to wear, which he hates. But overall, we're doing really well! This weekend was a little tough, considering boating/beaching/water activities are out of the question for Rob. But he was sweet enough to let me slip away for a little fun in the sun.<br />
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Friday was crazy hair day at school. Pictures will be posted soon I'm sure. Very rarely are there <i>bad</i> Fridays at school. But when it's crazy hair day <u>and</u> the start of a three day weekend <u>and</u> the third to last Friday of the school year, it's an extra good day.<br />
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Saturday we lounged around for most of the day. Guilty pleasure alert: we started One Tree Hill on Netflix and I am looooooving relieving all the Raven drama from the beginning. I snuck up to the pool with mom for a little while but missed Robbie and didn't stay gone long. #whipped<br />
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Sunday I went to church, spilled a Cookout milkshake on my front porch (whomp whomp), and went to the pool with some girls from school. Our school psychologist, who moved away last year, came back for the weekend and it was so so good to hang out with her again. I had lots of life savers my first year of teaching and she, without a doubt, was a big one!<br />
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That night we went over to dad's for hot dogs on the grill. All my cousins were over there and it was nice to get Robbie out of the house and see everyone! It was also my <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">not so </span>baby cousin's 21st birthday so I may or may not have poured a few drinks down her throat! The best part of Sunday night by far was being able to go to bed without setting an alarm. Ah, three day weekends.<br />
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Monday I went for a run (I've still been doing quite a bit of that, even though I'm way far away from reaching 1800 minutes) and then hung out on the boat with my mom and stepdad. Oh and my stepsister brought home her friend boy. I'm not exactly sure what they're official status is, or if they even have one. But I like him a lot. And he looks like a Ken doll.<br />
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Tuesday was back to school. But only for a few more days. And then it's puppy snuggles, Netflix marathons, and boat rides all day err'day.<br />
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P.S. Sorry for the lack of pictures. I'm kind of sucking at this whole blogging thing lately. I know...thanks for hanging in there!<br />
<br />Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-21296321948696429622014-05-21T05:00:00.000-07:002014-05-21T05:00:09.185-07:00You Live You LearnWell folks. Go ahead and cross one more thing off the ole bucket list. Kind of...<br />
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I experienced my first overnight hospital slumber party earlier this week. And if I didn't feel like a big kid before, I definitely do now.<br />
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Remember that bad back Robbie's been dealing with? Well we finally went in and got that sucker fixed right on up.<br />
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The past week has been an emotional roller-coaster to say the least. And I've learned a lot over the course of the past few days.<br />
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For example, waking up at 3AM for anything should be illegal.<br />
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When the nurse asks you if you're allergic to anything, they typically just mean medical related stuff. However, if you feel the need to tell everyone that you're allergic to cats <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(as my sweet husband did)</span> that's okay too. It's better to share too much instead of too little.<br />
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Cafeterias are great. I don't care who you are. There are so. many. choices.<br />
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Apparently I get little tiny pimples on my neck when I'm really stressed. (Or from eating all that cafeteria food.)<br />
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Nurses are really nice people (I already knew this, but it was validated this week) and they try really hard to let you sleep. Everyone that had to come in overnight was very apologetic.<br />
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I'm a lot calmer than I give myself credit for. I didn't freak out, once. It was my job to be strong. So that's what I did. And yes, I'm tooting my own horn about it.<br />
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Sport Center comes on all the time.<br />
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It's okay if you want to pack your childhood teddy in your hospital bag. You just never know.<br />
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The love and support of our friends and families is so overwhelmingly great. Seriously, I love our people.<br />
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God has a plan. Always. Even when you don't understand it. Even when you think it sucks. He has one. Try not to forget that.<br />
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I am so incredibly blessed to have Robbie in my life. No one plans for the "sickness" part of a marriage, especially at 25. Especially when it's a sickness that involves IVs and monitors and anesthesia and helping them out of bed to go potty (just being real). And it's hard and it's scary. But y'all it's eye-opening. And the commitment is unquestionable. And it's a lot <i style="font-weight: bold;">less</i> hard and <i style="font-weight: bold;">less</i> scary knowing we have each other.<br />
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We've both got a long road ahead with recovery before things are completely back to normal. But he's already feeling so much better and I know without a doubt this was the right call. I also, for the first time in a while, no without a doubt that we'll be just fine!<br />
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Thanks to everyone for all the thoughts, prayers, and <a href="http://instagram.com/mariannadunn">Instagram</a> love. I know I've been MIA from this little part of the internet lately, but I'm still feeling the blog love and I can't thank y'all enough for that!</div>
<br />Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-8959052873826984242014-05-13T04:30:00.000-07:002014-05-13T04:30:00.210-07:00How To Throw a (sorta fake) Graduation PartyIf you've been paying attention for long, you know that I love love LOVE having people over. Any excuse to host a party is a good excuse for me! And while I may not always (read never) have Pinterest-worthy garland or paper straws or washi tape food labels, I always <i>always</i> make sure everyone has a good time.<br />
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Robbie finished school last week and obviously it was <b>major</b> means for celebration! Just a little back story - he graduated forreal in 2011 with a degree in History and Sports Studies. What do you do with a degree in History and Sports Studies, you might ask? Not a whole lot. So he went back to school part time for his teaching license add-on. It's called a post-baccelorate program or something. And that's what he's been working on for the past two years. BUT because he's technically not getting another degree, he didn't get another graduation ceremony. Which was just <i>no beuno</i> in my mind.<br />
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Time to throw together a sorta fake graduation party <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(aka an excuse to have all our family and friends over to drink and eat and be merry)</span>. Just because he didn't get another diploma or get to walk in a ceremony he still totally deserved to celebrate his accomplishments.<br />
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And that is just what we did Friday night.<br />
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I decked our house out in ECU purple and gold everything <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(even though my balloons were a little too far on the fuchsia side)</span> through together a few sub platters, baked a couple dozen cookies, chilled several cases of beer, cranked 2000s Hip Hop Pandora (it's been my go-to lately) and spent the evening with the people who mean the most to Robbie and me. There were no paper straws but it was a huge success regardless.<br />
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AND I only had to take one nap on Saturday to recover. It's the little things y'all.<br />
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Also, I would like to apologize in advance for not only the terrible quality of these pictures due to the iPhone they were taken on but also due to the time in the evening when they were taken. Whoops...<br />
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<i>We were still a house divided thanks to baby bro.</i></div>
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<i>The cutest.</i></div>
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<i>Party animals.</i></div>
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<i>Willow and Roxy's signature party pose.</i></div>
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And here I am at the bottom of this post and I'm debating even pressing publish because these pictures look so bad. Note to self - invest in a real, big girl camera, Marianna. You won't regret it. </div>
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Bad camera quality or not...I am so proud of you Robbie and know that you will be an amazing teacher. I know from experience that teaching is one of the hardest things you'll ever do but it's a calling for sure. And you, my dear, have been called to do this. I know this wasn't the easiest choice, but it's definitely been the right choice. I can't wait to watch you love and forever change the lives of all those obnoxious teenagers, Mr. Dunn!</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-66052706351215478222014-05-07T05:00:00.000-07:002014-05-07T05:00:00.823-07:00What up y'all?Oh hello.<br />
It's just me.<br />
The lady who loves to dump a "Debbie Downer" post on ya one day and then not show up to play until five days later.<br />
Whoops.<br />
My bad.<br />
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Anywho....I'm back now and I'm in a much cheerier mood.<br />
Weekends will do that to ya.<br />
So will new dresses.<br />
And baby birds hatching right outside your classroom window.<br />
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And listening to Lollipop (Remix) while you run with an eight pound doxie pulling you along.<br />
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#100happydays y'all.<br />
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Here's a few more life updates for ya, by the number.<br />
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3 // episodes of Parenthood I've watched since yesterday afternoon. I'm in love.<br />
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7 // times I hit the snooze button on Monday morning. #thestruggleisreal<br />
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239 // wedding pictures I've been sorting through to finally put together our wedding album. Better late than never has always been my motto.<br />
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12 // reading assessments I have left to do before next Friday.<br />
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22 // days left of school until summer vacation. Can I get an amen?<br />
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18 // Starburst jelly beans I just ate. My hips and I are ready for this Easter candy to be gone.<br />
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3.50 // the "credit" Verizon put back on our account. Because I was really worried about that three dollars and fifty cents.<br />
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5,672 // the number of leaves Robbie is outside burning right now. Seriously, where do they all come from?<br />
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9:30 // the time I plan to crawl in bed tonight. I woke up wanting a nap.<br />
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2 // days left till Friday. Almost there homies.<br />
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-82145395014103846742014-05-02T05:00:00.000-07:002014-05-02T05:00:12.355-07:00Let Me Just Get This Out ThereGlass half full.<br />
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That's how I typically like to see things.</div>
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I'm an optimist through and through. </div>
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<i>Until I'm not. </i></div>
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I've always believed that everything happens for a reason.</div>
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And I'm pretty good at finding those reasons.</div>
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I'm pretty good at seeing the silver lining in every situation.</div>
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<i>Until I can't.</i></div>
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Until I get tired of being the one to say "it'll all work out". </div>
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Even though I know deep in my heart that it will, in fact, all work out.</div>
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Sometimes I just get tired.</div>
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I get tired of pretending like everything's okay.</div>
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Pretending like I'm strong enough to deal with everything thrown my way.</div>
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Sometimes I just want to sit in a puddle of my own self-pity and wallow.</div>
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And cry.</div>
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And drink wine.</div>
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And yell irrationally at my husband (like it's actually his fault, when it's not at all.)</div>
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I know God has a plan for me.</div>
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Bigger than any plan I could every dream up.</div>
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I believe that, really I do.</div>
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But sometimes, I get really annoyed with the plan He's setting up for me.</div>
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Sometimes, I want MY plan to be the one that actually happens.</div>
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I've debated for sometime whether or not to leave y'all with a vague "woe is me" post </div>
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or if I felt like actually divulging all the dirty details. </div>
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That's the weird thing about the internet. </div>
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Some things, most things, are so easy to throw out there.</div>
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But other things make you stop and think.</div>
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I'm not going to be vague, because I hate that.</div>
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But I'm also not going to get completely down and dirty with the deats because it's not totally my story to tell. </div>
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Also, as much as I love a good pity-party, I've spent the past week in one of my own and I'm getting a little tired of it. No need to dwell.</div>
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Robbie lost his job last February. </div>
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I've never blogged specifically about it, but I may have mentioned it in passing here or there.</div>
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I honestly don't remember.</div>
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Him being unemployed has become such a part of our lives that now it seems normal.</div>
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Not normal good. But normal nonetheless. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">For those of you actually doing the math,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">that's 15 months of living on my NC teaching salary alone.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And for those of you who haven't paid attention to political news in NC, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">we are one of the lowest ranking states in teacher pay in the country. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">To say things have been tight is a vast understatement.</span></div>
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He was able to draw unemployment for a <i>little</i> while, which helped.</div>
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But it didn't last long. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Thanks Obama.) </span></div>
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So we've been counting our pennies, cutting back, and doing every thing imaginable just to survive. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Another little fun tidbit of information - Robbie lost his job less than a year after we bought our very first home, a home we bought and planned to pay for with two salaries. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">It's been real fun y'all.</span></div>
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BUT being the silver lining hunter that I am, I quickly saw the "bless in the mess".</div>
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Robbie hasn't been able to find a part-time job because he's been over qualified for everything and because he's been in school part-time which makes his available hours weird.</div>
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BUT he has been able to put all his time and energy into school and has had the most ahh-mazing student teaching internship....ever. </div>
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Seriously, I could not be more proud of the work he has done for the kids in his internship.</div>
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He was called to be a teacher. </div>
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And God found a way (however sucky it might have seemed) to blatantly point that out. </div>
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Then he ruptured a disk in his back. </div>
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In the lumbar area to be exact.</div>
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And has been in severe pain pretty much since January.</div>
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There's been several days of relief, where he feels like he can actually move around without a shooting pain running down his leg.</div>
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But for the most part, it's sucked and he hasn't been able to do much of anything.</div>
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So we've seen doctors and we've seen surgeons and we've gotten an MRI and he's done physical therapy and he's popped every amount of hydrochodine you can safely ingest before you're labeled a drug addict.</div>
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And nothing. has. helped. at all. </div>
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We finally saw a neurosurgeon last week who wanted to operate as soon as possible.</div>
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Which scared the living daylights out of me, but ultimately meant relief for Robbie.</div>
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The first date he proposed didn't work out and the only next available date he had was the first week of June. </div>
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June!</div>
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Which I know is now technically just next month. </div>
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But still.</div>
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June.</div>
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That's one more month of waiting.</div>
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One more month of hurting.</div>
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One more month of dealing with something that we shouldn't have to be dealing with at all.</div>
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And that's where my pity-party comes in.</div>
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I love my husband.</div>
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More than I could ever try to express in this blog.</div>
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More today than I did the day we got married.</div>
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I wouldn't want to do this life with anyone else. </div>
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And honestly....I'm pretty freakin impressed at how well we've handled all the bullshit thrown our way these past few months.</div>
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Not to toot our own horns or anything, but we've pretty much rocked it out. </div>
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We've done the whole "through richer and poorer, in sickness and health" thing</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">need I remind y'all of my rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis and the "spots" I dealt with last fall.</span></div>
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And we've done it well. </div>
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But I'm ready for a little bit more of the "richer and health" part and less of the "poorer and sickness". </div>
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I'm ready for Robbie to feel better.</div>
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I'm ready for his back to be back to normal. </div>
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I'm ready for him to find a job doing what he loves.</div>
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And doing what he's been called to do.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And that will bring some bacon to the table.</span></div>
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I'm ready for things to be easy.</div>
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And because I've now spent two days too long wallowing in my self-pity,</div>
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I'm going to #<a href="http://iworeyogapantstowork.com/">backthatazzup</a> and return to my normal, glass half-full, forever optimist that I like being. </div>
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<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" height="40" id="gsSong3991454526" name="gsSong3991454526" width="250"><param name="movie" value="http://grooveshark.com/songWidget.swf" /><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="flashvars" value="hostname=grooveshark.com&songID=39914545&style=metal&p=0" /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://grooveshark.com/songWidget.swf" width="250" height="40"><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="flashvars" value="hostname=grooveshark.com&songID=39914545&style=metal&p=0" /><span><a href="http://grooveshark.com/search/song?q=Justin%20Timberlake%20-%20www.musicasparabaixar.org%20Not%20A%20Bad%20Thing" title="Not A Bad Thing by Justin Timberlake - www.musicasparabaixar.org on Grooveshark">Not A Bad Thing by Justin Timberlake - www.musicasparabaixar.org on Grooveshark</a></span></object></object>
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Just because I can't ever get enough of JT or this song.</div>
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And because I know, I know...</div>
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Also, because I'm not too pitiful to realize that even though things aren't easy right now, things are still happy, and there are still multiple moments in my day where I am completely blown away by the blessings around me, I've decided to join a challenge (because apparently I'm all about those <a href="http://delightfullydunn.blogspot.com/2014/05/its-like-im-workout-barbie-or-something.html">lately</a>) to find <a href="http://100happydays.com/">one happy thing in my day for the next 100 days.</a> </div>
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I'll be blogging and <a href="http://instagram.com/mariannadunn">instagramming</a> my happy things. </div>
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Hashtag marshappydays. </div>
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Hashtag I promise to not be annoying (maybe). </div>
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So follow along!</div>
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And thanks for listening to me rant.</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618208070706359031.post-12908367050134512272014-05-01T05:00:00.000-07:002014-05-01T05:00:00.635-07:00It's Like I'm Workout Barbie, or Something?I swear I am not going to go all fitness queen on y'all, despite this being the second "fitness" post this week. I'm just impressed that it's Thursday and I've blogged pretty consistently this week. Snaps for Marianna.<br />
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Anyway....on Monday I blogged about Erin's 1800 Minutes Challenge and how I'm taking an active role in being more aware of my physical activity (chasing First Graders and all). It just so happens that another one of my fav <a href="http://www.mamaandmou.com/">bloggers</a> is starting another fitness challenge this month. Nothing like a looming bikini season to kick everyone into high gear. </div>
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I'll obviously keep tracking my active minutes for the <a href="http://www.livinginyellow.com/2014/03/1800minutechallenge-join-us.html">1800 Minutes Challenge</a>.</div>
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This month I also want to...</div>
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<li>Get back on track with my Gluten-free diet. </li>
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I saw this thing on Pinterest about different body types and how you carry your weight and I totally have a "wheat belly". No matter how much I run or crunch or do anything, I get a food baby like no other - when I eat wheat and other "not good for me" foods. Changing my diet has been the easiest way for me to see the most drastic changes and actually notice the results of all that physical activity.</div>
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<li>Increase my running intervals (I think that's what they're called.)</li>
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The biggest "fad" going around right now seems to be half-marathons. And not two months ago I was scoffing at the idea of one. I still kind of am. Spending multiple hours of my life <i>running</i> seems laughable to me. And totally something I want to <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">maybe one day</span> do. The only problem is, I've gotten to a pretty comfortable pace and can pretty easily bang out 3 or 4 miles without feeling like complete death. But thats about it. In May, I want to push myself to increase that distance. 13.1 miles still seems like a ridiculous amount but every little step counts, right?</div>
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<li>Join a gym.</li>
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Robbie, this one is for you *hint hint*. <a href="http://www.thedailytay.com/2014/03/22-reasons-why-i-dont-join-gym.html">Taylor</a> blogged about all the reasons she <b>does not </b>want to join a gym and I agreed with every single one of them. Except our gym has a really nice pool. And it's getting warmer and I would love love love to be able to use said really nice pool. I promise to even lift a few weights while I'm at it. You know, to get the most bang for my buck and all.<br />
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Happy May y'all!</div>
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Marianna Dunnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13743245169740778070noreply@blogger.com3