tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16193454237516718602024-03-05T18:11:38.705-05:00Patterson Park Patterkimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-12764207446183471462011-05-03T13:34:00.010-04:002011-05-06T21:54:33.547-04:00bathroom makeover: from leaky to lovely<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">My second-floor bathroom is done, by the way. Totally forgot to mention that and give you the wrap up a couple weeks ago! Long story short, I love it. Immensely! No more weirdly giant nasty jetted tub (that leaks out of two jets), no more totally Eighties scallop-edged vanity. Oh, yeah, and no more non-functioning tub spout. Or weird pink and gray tiles. Ok, you get the point - it was bad... reeeeally bad!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I made the somewhat-begrudging decision to replace this uber-tub with a step-in shower. This means that my house now has no bathtub, which terrified me on a resale basis, but I realized that I could either do a really lovely, classy step in shower, or a pretty mediocre, boring tub. I also realized I have taken precisely 2 baths in 5 years, which I didn't even enjoy - I always end up taking a shower after. Oh, and that I probably won't want to sell my house for at least 5 more years. Minimum. SO shower it was! But this meant that I could get gorgeous tiles, put in a bench, replace my vanity and floor tiles, <i>and</i> repaint for less than it was going to cost me to get a replacement tub (crazy old tub = crazy custom/non-standard tub needed to replace it = crazy added expense).</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Here's an evolution for you - as per us', I forgot to take "before" pictures. Well, to my credit, I HAD before pictures on my old computer that bit the dust 100%. Sorry... just use my intense description and your imaginations. Here we start with the bathroom totally gutted:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixO2PBgeoNHx-wV85CCB8KeZqyIeuQvoYv-NoBCot8w2HtU6ZL6vR_xnpNZ9oFQ8uXTRYJ1-7EVmXpDdJPkfdsjDWNPhLA90UJjFsobj_i8qgeO7GCtLNRZN-KGnenVtz7-7qUncaNbIA/s1600/DSC01632.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixO2PBgeoNHx-wV85CCB8KeZqyIeuQvoYv-NoBCot8w2HtU6ZL6vR_xnpNZ9oFQ8uXTRYJ1-7EVmXpDdJPkfdsjDWNPhLA90UJjFsobj_i8qgeO7GCtLNRZN-KGnenVtz7-7qUncaNbIA/s320/DSC01632.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603776405942785922" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGLLQDA6FPrh8bnknwuNxEdOh7X5h-MzD4VbSgJyAVJM_2VvzdHVhZJHdZjEZuR83Ar4SwR_Kq3odA21NSJCFbvHYLg_5pWZvrQ59d10HO7sNBTTwXdgUt_WxyC4BN9_zvhgcFvOVYNI/s1600/DSC01629.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGLLQDA6FPrh8bnknwuNxEdOh7X5h-MzD4VbSgJyAVJM_2VvzdHVhZJHdZjEZuR83Ar4SwR_Kq3odA21NSJCFbvHYLg_5pWZvrQ59d10HO7sNBTTwXdgUt_WxyC4BN9_zvhgcFvOVYNI/s320/DSC01629.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603776399419068946" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNBCJECkV2-BjpnVZXAEMCq6s3m20behsKNvhRK1Dfb-55fXXyfk0HgKa88f6QVyb0xbSF9qFOfHCqLnrjtOK13_kKgD-KE8qHUBDWtyUTV8_H8iijJgWsufr7A93ZN9CK0QFrCwyAh8/s1600/DSC01630.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNBCJECkV2-BjpnVZXAEMCq6s3m20behsKNvhRK1Dfb-55fXXyfk0HgKa88f6QVyb0xbSF9qFOfHCqLnrjtOK13_kKgD-KE8qHUBDWtyUTV8_H8iijJgWsufr7A93ZN9CK0QFrCwyAh8/s320/DSC01630.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603776395553483266" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzFXCNW461LdIMDskIw_99Fk075IUua7ok1detcinm_9FW-eIH48wls3SJ1E9G_znJoqoUUihz-ccKT5AQs538xM4X-PyZvqVy_uxxwW7Atfw6mm-ZFP4ua-dR6imqv5r89GbbRRQpLc/s1600/DSC01633.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzFXCNW461LdIMDskIw_99Fk075IUua7ok1detcinm_9FW-eIH48wls3SJ1E9G_znJoqoUUihz-ccKT5AQs538xM4X-PyZvqVy_uxxwW7Atfw6mm-ZFP4ua-dR6imqv5r89GbbRRQpLc/s320/DSC01633.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603776411825549090" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Here are some shots mid-renovation - at last, my tile had arrived! The waterproofing was done! My main goal was to avoid creating a super-cliche bathroom. In my line of work, I see a lot of bathroom..like, a <i>lot</i> a lot...and I swear 97% look identical. To avoid this, I decided to create contract while sticking to a simple black and white color palette (classic, easy to change up by adding splashes of color with new towels, and never goes out of style) I got these really large rectangular tiles , oriented vertically, for the bottom 4 feet as as well as the bench. Above that, is a six-inch band of black, white and gray glass skinny tiles:</span></div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdBpY6QjKnr4LruA119B8ikdCisCs25dc66EyAVzDh1dAjg5bZaSw_9QBwrSiNQ5oTkBv-nF_5nBAh80Zl3G572h-sZVDZdAwgK8ZwZv3dHif1eNuL3bccyqmd6-mOia2_FmojGl6La0/s1600/DSC01739.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdBpY6QjKnr4LruA119B8ikdCisCs25dc66EyAVzDh1dAjg5bZaSw_9QBwrSiNQ5oTkBv-nF_5nBAh80Zl3G572h-sZVDZdAwgK8ZwZv3dHif1eNuL3bccyqmd6-mOia2_FmojGl6La0/s320/DSC01739.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603780113539824258" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Already was loving it. And then! Oh, then, my beautiful subway tiles arrived! These were expensive, but I am so glad I didn't end up going with the cheaper option with a lower length-to-height ration. I oriented theses horizontally, to contrast with the huge vertical rectangles on the bottom. As you can see, it was still a mess at this point, but getting there: </span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcOHe4PHIR3YvBREP31686X4QbPyOZx8neIDmP5FXgEwyL5KR8aomHaZcRY6oIIsj-HBOzkn_2J8-6Gw6-GLxmWCIT80nCB1FKtsq92d0NKlZnmd_q0rmnQ7Ytg1_2QWXkO0EtuBKSgI/s1600/DSC01741.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcOHe4PHIR3YvBREP31686X4QbPyOZx8neIDmP5FXgEwyL5KR8aomHaZcRY6oIIsj-HBOzkn_2J8-6Gw6-GLxmWCIT80nCB1FKtsq92d0NKlZnmd_q0rmnQ7Ytg1_2QWXkO0EtuBKSgI/s320/DSC01741.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603780133092158514" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Have I built enough suspense for The Big Reveal by now? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRZETT6ISorWeJicIH2YjeX2RRfk47ID1ktIArF0FV4LRIMd-c1OfVXF4LrKd0oCrSkspEIipd5MiBOWdWg02UdFOSIwe7PX9uULJsRDy553O6YRrXGkYMq_4iurq26Jv0Fy0YYOSWo8/s1600/DSC01828.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRZETT6ISorWeJicIH2YjeX2RRfk47ID1ktIArF0FV4LRIMd-c1OfVXF4LrKd0oCrSkspEIipd5MiBOWdWg02UdFOSIwe7PX9uULJsRDy553O6YRrXGkYMq_4iurq26Jv0Fy0YYOSWo8/s320/DSC01828.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603786164012198418" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C_iF1lyx5q6uc5_2dkNRR2ef57ZZqEtKMjmGFBsvOHp2cAdX0_ahJkxrZEQSCr2P2cIJoTyit302yy45Kt3iLUUZjcZBXYDiFYACBC46OJzczNa96Z40PI0Weub-sf-mhcNHvTDCdiY/s1600/DSC01826.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C_iF1lyx5q6uc5_2dkNRR2ef57ZZqEtKMjmGFBsvOHp2cAdX0_ahJkxrZEQSCr2P2cIJoTyit302yy45Kt3iLUUZjcZBXYDiFYACBC46OJzczNa96Z40PI0Weub-sf-mhcNHvTDCdiY/s320/DSC01826.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603786149892508258" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStgan9N4LblAfrj3Ab5wBocFP6kDRG2Gu2h0rim-oXBE5O2naG1xH9yUfXPph2l1mUoRTxuGecrrp4o11iAosNYoFxbd1ARG0uoBGvWjd3D_VCrFggim-WuqUIqVEHk5KMqkGTDZUIi8/s1600/DSC01827.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStgan9N4LblAfrj3Ab5wBocFP6kDRG2Gu2h0rim-oXBE5O2naG1xH9yUfXPph2l1mUoRTxuGecrrp4o11iAosNYoFxbd1ARG0uoBGvWjd3D_VCrFggim-WuqUIqVEHk5KMqkGTDZUIi8/s320/DSC01827.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603786159773474354" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmkUaejeztW0vILgt4RoKLUvRddiqrWB_KzKATzSBM-xlxv4Sp4mEqxJ9gLk05WIEmBaZpjExGPrs3xT7Qi_nQcbwSCrG6nnIk6raPfiy8ERhdt24zqoVxGx2Z6ufuIynyrWuvvMC5T-Y/s1600/DSC01829.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmkUaejeztW0vILgt4RoKLUvRddiqrWB_KzKATzSBM-xlxv4Sp4mEqxJ9gLk05WIEmBaZpjExGPrs3xT7Qi_nQcbwSCrG6nnIk6raPfiy8ERhdt24zqoVxGx2Z6ufuIynyrWuvvMC5T-Y/s320/DSC01829.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603786166998341698" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh57lk-QwvxMR2P1Je1T9_6_-cc8VK_xZvUctOfT9vnXwb1BLaR8v9QZID7nUyAz0W9fl692PVOglxTDoy7fhAxV-q8TXfWV6rxzClzPFlKGQke77aIC5N81JVCGf-a26l3lHB3ON-1l8/s1600/DSC01830.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh57lk-QwvxMR2P1Je1T9_6_-cc8VK_xZvUctOfT9vnXwb1BLaR8v9QZID7nUyAz0W9fl692PVOglxTDoy7fhAxV-q8TXfWV6rxzClzPFlKGQke77aIC5N81JVCGf-a26l3lHB3ON-1l8/s320/DSC01830.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603786174571861378" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">So....what do you think?</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/">return hom</a>e</span></div><div><br /></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-52076624479148395362011-05-03T12:23:00.007-04:002011-05-04T19:54:25.374-04:00the craziest race in our glorious city<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7-JLZjnx1Fhyf1tP8toB8IPJiEx1x2w8kZMYaHnOvTlVpJhqSv4FC84NqWyzWDIy7TpJ7wR4w7L-df60an2CJyrAsJkozfsXygmGjAjIxwH0d0E4fR6l5vQ6hOJWnD-zGAr7mHam0qs/s1600/091.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRpko5p7vKts539H2sE6S5Ndn5ifVWbPHXMuHIW2NFfoLlZiWbJLp-5aMcidVOaOWJq0sxoq3SETQfScEXao5ba-S6zExytD7WgdSix5ZE1LsVViPIfICq6jjImE-Ex-NAqhfqq2WXRo/s1600/race22b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 333px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRpko5p7vKts539H2sE6S5Ndn5ifVWbPHXMuHIW2NFfoLlZiWbJLp-5aMcidVOaOWJq0sxoq3SETQfScEXao5ba-S6zExytD7WgdSix5ZE1LsVViPIfICq6jjImE-Ex-NAqhfqq2WXRo/s400/race22b.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603012409759213618" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">Look! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... a thirty-five foot long, eight foot tall giant pink poodle? Yup, that is a legitimate possibility this Saturday. "But how?" you ask? Duh! <a href="http://www.kineticbaltimore.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">The Kinetic Sculpture Race</span></a> is a'comin' to town! Hosted by the <a href="http://avam.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">American Visionary Arts Museum</span></a>, the Kinetic Sculpture Race celebrates all things wild and ridiculous. For eight hours, human powered amphibious works of art race fifteen miles through the city, into the Harbor, and battling through mud and sand pits. Yup. It's crazy, but it's true.</span><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPhnsixnGQdbweZRpu7Ec2iDIP5cHEUGxsqH9Lx88zl51GShv1StRn8qSF8LpjRTFmgKpbx_nI1660DdBXhYCNCbLEYNTB7v7LcVSeaBxInD0bcr_8L9uZ97tTNxLtmHmzQzKHbybV4c/s400/853609429_XkL72-M.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603012575370980626" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Inspired by the California Kinetic Grand Championship, our race is now in it's thirteenth year! Last year, 28 teams came to town, including the winning sculpture, "<a href="http://www.kineticbaltimore.com/KSR/2010/default.asp"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Candy Haus</span></a>" - a giant gingerbread house complete with enormous lollipops..that were also oars - "<a href="http://www.kineticbaltimore.com/KSR/2010/default.asp?Page=2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Go Ask Alice</span></a>," and "<a href="http://www.kineticbaltimore.com/KSR/2010/default.asp?Page=6"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Platypu</span></a>s," but to name a few. They're all really quite awe-inspiring in their looks, not to mention that they complete an obstacle course <i>and</i> brave the harbor.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Even the awards are silly! The Golden Dinosaur goes to the sculpture</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7-JLZjnx1Fhyf1tP8toB8IPJiEx1x2w8kZMYaHnOvTlVpJhqSv4FC84NqWyzWDIy7TpJ7wR4w7L-df60an2CJyrAsJkozfsXygmGjAjIxwH0d0E4fR6l5vQ6hOJWnD-zGAr7mHam0qs/s1600/091.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7-JLZjnx1Fhyf1tP8toB8IPJiEx1x2w8kZMYaHnOvTlVpJhqSv4FC84NqWyzWDIy7TpJ7wR4w7L-df60an2CJyrAsJkozfsXygmGjAjIxwH0d0E4fR6l5vQ6hOJWnD-zGAr7mHam0qs/s400/091.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603012843347474610" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">with the most memorable breakdown; The Worst Honorable Mention is awarded to the sculpture whose "half-baked theoretical engineering did not deter its pilot from the challenge of the race"; The Golden flip is for the most interesting water entry; And, my personal favorite, the National Mediocre Champion has the dubious honor of finishing with the time closest to average. Heck, you can even get points for bribing the judges! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Long story short, you obviously <i>have</i> to go. It you're a Patterson</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAVwIPV9SH67JPQMKn19jMYY2tBl8NjNNOs7yxwx9ViyQE6xKTj46a0-NLAqi2FWkRpQbAYrQpvGy9H6_CkQLGr5Bnz7Loahs7XgisBu2yXzhyphenhyphenQvCdEhgqhr_LdB2YVkm0kRz_oZEamY/s400/2010KsrSpectatorsGuide1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603010792968813602" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 309px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> Parker like me, you're in luck! The Park is where the Kinetic Sculptures navigate the obstacle course of mud and sand pits and hills. But no matter where you are, you can catch all the fun throughout the city. <a href="http://www.kineticbaltimore.com/ksr/downloads/2010KsrSpectatorsGuide.pdf"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Check out this route map and estimated times</span></a>. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The whole thing arrives in the Park around 1:15, so that's where you'll find me, for sure. In the meantime, cross your fingers and toes for lovely weather! Oh, and I almost forgot! Spectators are strongly encouraged to get in on the crazy action and dress in you finest foolishness.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatterl.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home</span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px;font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-32999650600080471492011-05-03T11:26:00.008-04:002011-05-04T09:03:17.540-04:00sink hole!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbgIzxpKuEHovwnECLaO3-BzMnkYQc_xHSisZuvx14TIWH5W4MMDnWOIwlm0MMYV7ZJ3NZJqI-NLm9fW-h5nXEre92abhoXTSghMXbOLweUWS6GolNu89cZ4ti2B-SiSmWKQ1g9OhaIc/s1600/DSC01833.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMkgLW7tdbFQpypvOTbhWqQSRCDNJvh1fwrXQLyuf30L1RZFtEOnzcqvy_C54ex_UA7g88wrLNMapQwkP1NwoSw4TG5HQPr3IY1yX7nAV357TBOgtVedQJdDYtJX8it_Hj6Ai4Q9RZdW8/s1600/DSC01832.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMkgLW7tdbFQpypvOTbhWqQSRCDNJvh1fwrXQLyuf30L1RZFtEOnzcqvy_C54ex_UA7g88wrLNMapQwkP1NwoSw4TG5HQPr3IY1yX7nAV357TBOgtVedQJdDYtJX8it_Hj6Ai4Q9RZdW8/s400/DSC01832.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602512734611621698" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Last week there was a sink hole in the middle of East Baltimore Street, just East of the Park! Sometime in the late afternoon a huge section of the road - we're talking like 5 feet by 7 feet - just sunk, finally coming to rest some four or five feet below the rest of the road. It was quite a spectacle and people literally took to the streets to examine it, sitting on stoops with quite a carnival atmosphere. Gotta love Baltimore!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Not sure if it is a coincidence or if we're entering in to some apocalyptic disaster, but I feel like<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"> </span>there have been sink holes popping up all over the place lately....please get on that, City Hall! While there was nothing <a href="http://www.wbaltv.com/slideshow/news/22671382/detail.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">exciting</span></a> down there, the mind reels at how and why dirt beneath the roads is being so rapidly corroded. Maybe it all comes back to <a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/2011/04/waste-water-magic-or-what-city-is-doing.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Baltimore's issues with rain water run off</span></a>!<br /></span><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbgIzxpKuEHovwnECLaO3-BzMnkYQc_xHSisZuvx14TIWH5W4MMDnWOIwlm0MMYV7ZJ3NZJqI-NLm9fW-h5nXEre92abhoXTSghMXbOLweUWS6GolNu89cZ4ti2B-SiSmWKQ1g9OhaIc/s400/DSC01833.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602514040503323746" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div></div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Anyways, the city quickly put up barricades to stop any unfortunate car vs. sink hole situations, and within three days the city had it all fixed up and, hopefully, good as new.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">return home</span></span></a></div></div></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-8722612653149639062011-05-03T09:30:00.008-04:002011-05-03T12:39:00.398-04:00star spangled in the sunshine<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu51tC_JV7F1LvJYKYiNGX71awhlPE69NPrKbp-ZV49vtdOOmdbB7yqBY4ImpXf3GKukk81tUudsT_jJpiJrZClNIOWeZOmsXr0TX0jXbygmbuzMNqEh2zglGjIAHid4NLpqHd3eRvlRU/s1600/DSC01840.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstuArG8jMLi_53kiwRBQUXgFW-O2ilUEtml-vZx9zL3Wf9-hXoOGuLElxf6s8LZ3pIwDpVq1_0vzWQXy2rPxOKwuhqpGPo_YQsZ4B_U4u0s88CVEQL89kNdcFewwqrKlx6W0O0uQv0VM/s1600/DSC01855.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstuArG8jMLi_53kiwRBQUXgFW-O2ilUEtml-vZx9zL3Wf9-hXoOGuLElxf6s8LZ3pIwDpVq1_0vzWQXy2rPxOKwuhqpGPo_YQsZ4B_U4u0s88CVEQL89kNdcFewwqrKlx6W0O0uQv0VM/s400/DSC01855.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602489902946322834" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">A week ago found the miraculous combination of sunshine, no appointments, <i>and</i> N's day off! What are the odds, right? Deciding to seize the day, we headed around the harbor to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_McHenry"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Fort McHenry</span></a> for my first visit to the birthplace of our national anthem. What a treat! If you haven't been, I suggest you put it on your summer "to-do" list, pronto. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">In case your history is a little rusty, this star-shaped fort played a major role during the War of 1812, during the Battle of Baltimore. A thousand Americans successfully staved off the British invasion of the Fort and Baltimore's harbor while Baltimorean's watched on baited breath from rooftops throughout the city all night. Also watching this battle was Francis Scott Key, who was inspired to write a poem that became the Star Spangled Banner as he saw the American flag rise over the fort after a horrendous night of cannon bombardment. Due to the valiant efforts of the soldiers as well as Baltimore's merchants - who sunk 22 of their own ships to create an artificial reef to block British ships from entering the harbor - Baltimore was saved. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu51tC_JV7F1LvJYKYiNGX71awhlPE69NPrKbp-ZV49vtdOOmdbB7yqBY4ImpXf3GKukk81tUudsT_jJpiJrZClNIOWeZOmsXr0TX0jXbygmbuzMNqEh2zglGjIAHid4NLpqHd3eRvlRU/s400/DSC01840.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602490613192370546" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The fort was later used as a military prison during the Civil War, and was then made in to a national park in 1925, and then a "National Monument and Historic Shrine" in 1939 - the only place to hold this double title!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRZGt-FhlgMoZJf4uL5CWQpoop-cNJhRlDSM2xKmGFFJZGt4reMLvIsayMs2Lgl9YutZQ9kPEcOXWAcPFCnprJTaJLMdWB-LvV_yKtTfacGmSux1PwXzwSJn0sfQwmFQuc4OtqICCvPk/s1600/DSC01848.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRZGt-FhlgMoZJf4uL5CWQpoop-cNJhRlDSM2xKmGFFJZGt4reMLvIsayMs2Lgl9YutZQ9kPEcOXWAcPFCnprJTaJLMdWB-LvV_yKtTfacGmSux1PwXzwSJn0sfQwmFQuc4OtqICCvPk/s400/DSC01848.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602499472854072770" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 88px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi443GiYvdMtybFyPmpD2rNuXfYSyME9B_DKEKQpLweiAS4pdFS8XmZeLtQ2mowjv11IMqHmBwpY1GbVMwuPevnlPGUOjozthYb-DPqXQS4ng0Md-Z008KoXs9YkmoXebN0AMxNFyChyphenhyphen2A/s1600/DSC01839.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi443GiYvdMtybFyPmpD2rNuXfYSyME9B_DKEKQpLweiAS4pdFS8XmZeLtQ2mowjv11IMqHmBwpY1GbVMwuPevnlPGUOjozthYb-DPqXQS4ng0Md-Z008KoXs9YkmoXebN0AMxNFyChyphenhyphen2A/s320/DSC01839.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602498034029538626" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi60cWuo4OtT0WFlkpPu8b1HyMP1LH9o0k1R3SOkYG8wTuxlMKT8VJDz3Q4cvw5tSf-T4tpuk5AazHB3cPhAB5nzEhNJFyiBuaFivA-IL-8xqwlpfOCAF6TNbqTsZG7FfxjSFAJWRSaN7U/s1600/DSC01843.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi60cWuo4OtT0WFlkpPu8b1HyMP1LH9o0k1R3SOkYG8wTuxlMKT8VJDz3Q4cvw5tSf-T4tpuk5AazHB3cPhAB5nzEhNJFyiBuaFivA-IL-8xqwlpfOCAF6TNbqTsZG7FfxjSFAJWRSaN7U/s320/DSC01843.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602498027464942754" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk8CiTNO2BaKC-FyDzSfJsDAAx0xZEhKxrvAt3cNHXUaZ5cNLeIP5uCJB2U-SRgRTKaEgfP8UIxSzf9Sp3ja8xijyEcv5lKo2qh9LWDGQVk0nHy0GTXPBPBhcQwJS6ewB9BIDRBueenM/s400/DSC01838.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602498695985990386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 88px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">There is a lovely visitors' center, with a great (though somewhat glossed-over) video documentary of the Battle of Baltimore. When the Star Spangled Banner start up, the screen rose into the ceiling revealing a wall of windows, and the American flag was seen gently flapping in the wind atop the fort, even I felt a little teary. A walk through the fort was informative and interesting, with recreated soldiers' quarters, etc to poke through, and sweeping views of the city and harbor from the fort walls. Next time I'm taking a picnic! I also hope to see the <a href="http://www.fortmchenryguard.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Fort McHenry Guar</span></a>d - a volunteer group that helps bring history to life for visitors; I believe they will be there starting May 28th. </span><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-XL14lY6FIeJP3CmvHVpdF7wRt6pC_qBiluM5IeUg4sAQoJVbl7Lraqgp3AynU7TSGHGM6B_5fRfG15KBgbtwiM2lsztQo8L4OBolaGKUOdREDyTP1KV83h1nOYnGKQJO7-N8LZjd-gk/s1600/DSC01837.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-XL14lY6FIeJP3CmvHVpdF7wRt6pC_qBiluM5IeUg4sAQoJVbl7Lraqgp3AynU7TSGHGM6B_5fRfG15KBgbtwiM2lsztQo8L4OBolaGKUOdREDyTP1KV83h1nOYnGKQJO7-N8LZjd-gk/s320/DSC01837.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602501771297334786" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSgFktMFpxVNK64bCTw-vfmmMM1YmhwWsDr4JQLEyjlyBv8Sgi0J9pYZmfV57q8e3TqTW1q_n2J5s9IgRRgTw_T4vdzA9Zu6ME1nk0ACPC6GYRTY0dpyNe_MiR0fzM_-V1Qgrl7Hyztw/s1600/DSC01845.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSgFktMFpxVNK64bCTw-vfmmMM1YmhwWsDr4JQLEyjlyBv8Sgi0J9pYZmfV57q8e3TqTW1q_n2J5s9IgRRgTw_T4vdzA9Zu6ME1nk0ACPC6GYRTY0dpyNe_MiR0fzM_-V1Qgrl7Hyztw/s320/DSC01845.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602504712059982802" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Each September, Fort McHenry commemorates the successful defense of the city from the British. I don't have details on the affair, but I imagine it's a sweet scene and worth checking out! Hey, you could even take the water taxi over and make it a real lil' urban adventure. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/">return home</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://www.google.com/friendconnect/signin/home?st=e%3DAOG8GaBokYPtuNhJXJPkD2N4VTD4jLDxR08rP7fOXaHXXg5wSk1o3rinoFK04MCoVGPtgkd24W3xv7vuKk8gFFe8lQJWLPMidOHeklys7pVJzXcEAt%252FBA37TS%252BWi%252BKgM6m%252Fi5AfTzi1voq85FnuDdZIJWwXqLCQVecvANuVWjlu76gfk4ONk2wFYHz%252FkBhfy3lZcTiQWlM69%252Fv1a0BT%252FoMejZHRPpMZ0mpVxERJh8ca%252B2BlqZtz%252FgFs%253D%26c%3Dpeoplesense&psinvite=&subscribeOnSignin=1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">follow me!</span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-83999624433863655042011-04-21T15:25:00.011-04:002011-04-21T21:47:32.451-04:00pink poof explosion!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivygAYJ3a5CZifYLU8ar7nXBpDqmunrMTne7P5s1LfkBpIn25iFuZnMIj0B5JvTMnyGV2iP8RVGFTXgZgrHcHDBGqkkSrO4nFQn9MLd59_hALm799Nr2EFYpWSNL3rQqqIa8Gg2NQudn4/s1600/DSC01810.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH79leWkXE110z57BnqjLMmdcERFtqN7ywHzMyoEjL344lyICjCgrBunVhh4gkDFzjPLFdQNB3UrFsr1ao-gzXTb2QraEcc_4Kz00C3tuQwZX2zVXdMXCcgwn14WEzv5hlW3TJQzoUFc8/s1600/DSC01809.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH79leWkXE110z57BnqjLMmdcERFtqN7ywHzMyoEjL344lyICjCgrBunVhh4gkDFzjPLFdQNB3UrFsr1ao-gzXTb2QraEcc_4Kz00C3tuQwZX2zVXdMXCcgwn14WEzv5hlW3TJQzoUFc8/s400/DSC01809.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598124265203542706" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I am lucky enough to live on a street lined by old cherry blossom trees - the city doesn't plant these anymore, since apparently they grow too laterally and get in the way of trucks and street cleaners. In fact, I've stopped city crews from hacking down branches on more than one occasion (one was especially awkward since I heard them starting up their wood chipper and had to leap out of bed and throw on whatever clothes were on hand and bolt out the door, hair everywhere, to literally beg them to go away. It worked) I also have scrubbed off their white spray painted marks meant to indicate future chopping, and bound a broken branch assaulted by a street cleaner truck passing by until it healed itself...Hey, whatever it takes. What the city and its wood chipping employees don't understand is that I value what the trees offer way more than the street cleaner's ability to hiss down my gutter. I can sweep up street trash, but I can't replace the immense pleasure each and every twig of that tree brings me. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbuG4RkOjFjfhkCwiRax1TGutYRmtSzdtvtP5Ej9DACzMtxff38DHVflYcwmp7TmPRsi1RAZcGYEnU0dpNRb7-qyo2VuSCnBCewzzuCBX4apus_qLPbAEvjvpu6nU6RoNs_gnqCJESlFQ/s400/DSC01815.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598124409004009970" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 88px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">You see, each spring my street is transformed into a fairy arbor, with ridiculous, almost unbelievable, explosions of the wildest pink you can imagine. Over the course of three days, the whole street is transformed from ho-hum winter branches to intoxicating color. Fluffy cotton-candy balls of flowers literally surround you as you walk out the door. Walking my dog at night, I pass beneath boughs that pulse pink even in the dark. It is magical. Even as the petals fall, the spell continues, as the entire sidewalk is transformed to a soft pink carpet, so much more dazzling than any hollywood red carpet walk could be. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xz9-NX27nm7a946On49TKE_3UKXacs-uz3WMfSqIi5shjc09gSLCLz5U0plOaidqIGOwbHkqv2WBX3YvNpe4Pgs3N7J-q9XBlB624dDkkT3QZGAgEKQpAaj-H7QX4um7mpY3HrqwuQw/s1600/DSC01812.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xz9-NX27nm7a946On49TKE_3UKXacs-uz3WMfSqIi5shjc09gSLCLz5U0plOaidqIGOwbHkqv2WBX3YvNpe4Pgs3N7J-q9XBlB624dDkkT3QZGAgEKQpAaj-H7QX4um7mpY3HrqwuQw/s320/DSC01812.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598124756877115634" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXrVaVeb1BJPFMx_ktVZ3YsElaaLxb9Tk7q3QgnujBRngK7KrE5Ia5dt4bHsJ0dVrDXzM9UsI1g82yOjLFNOgmGg_UIWEFxjECMImD0Ugfo5_78uVu7KAulC16XL6FjZVYWwsORIn0Os/s1600/DSC01811.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXrVaVeb1BJPFMx_ktVZ3YsElaaLxb9Tk7q3QgnujBRngK7KrE5Ia5dt4bHsJ0dVrDXzM9UsI1g82yOjLFNOgmGg_UIWEFxjECMImD0Ugfo5_78uVu7KAulC16XL6FjZVYWwsORIn0Os/s320/DSC01811.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598124750930639250" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXrVaVeb1BJPFMx_ktVZ3YsElaaLxb9Tk7q3QgnujBRngK7KrE5Ia5dt4bHsJ0dVrDXzM9UsI1g82yOjLFNOgmGg_UIWEFxjECMImD0Ugfo5_78uVu7KAulC16XL6FjZVYWwsORIn0Os/s1600/DSC01811.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivygAYJ3a5CZifYLU8ar7nXBpDqmunrMTne7P5s1LfkBpIn25iFuZnMIj0B5JvTMnyGV2iP8RVGFTXgZgrHcHDBGqkkSrO4nFQn9MLd59_hALm799Nr2EFYpWSNL3rQqqIa8Gg2NQudn4/s1600/DSC01810.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivygAYJ3a5CZifYLU8ar7nXBpDqmunrMTne7P5s1LfkBpIn25iFuZnMIj0B5JvTMnyGV2iP8RVGFTXgZgrHcHDBGqkkSrO4nFQn9MLd59_hALm799Nr2EFYpWSNL3rQqqIa8Gg2NQudn4/s400/DSC01810.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598125844991725314" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></span></div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The whole thing only lasts about one week, but it is my favorite week of the entire year. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">return home</span></a></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-52077426959635931242011-04-20T10:15:00.013-04:002011-04-21T12:38:32.866-04:00moving from local food desert to local food distribution<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIry5yqgeMu_fYnigFLv6cNYw6-ZptFNv-ne3RoMX-ND-U35Juvnh24sXEmTz8INIBHPRz0gWcd8zny9j3yxICNkIYo-E1jPRlq-HunYrxikRBIuQpb7wiBBp6OoThMbXyhLJxXOdSCRM/s1600/DSC01804.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIry5yqgeMu_fYnigFLv6cNYw6-ZptFNv-ne3RoMX-ND-U35Juvnh24sXEmTz8INIBHPRz0gWcd8zny9j3yxICNkIYo-E1jPRlq-HunYrxikRBIuQpb7wiBBp6OoThMbXyhLJxXOdSCRM/s400/DSC01804.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598075904907131362" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Let's just start by talking about how cool the American Brewery building is. Built in 1887 by a German immigrant, the Brewery was one of the largest in Maryland with a 10,000 bushel grain elevator, a 30,000 square foot Brewhouse and 60,000 square foot Bottle Building . It rocked and rolled until Prohibition shuttered its operations in the 1920s. In 1931 the building was sold the American Malt Company, who modernized the operation until 1973, whereupon it was listed in the National Registry of Historic Sites. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Over the following decades, this once bustling, beautiful building fell into disrepair and neglect in one of East Baltimore's most blighted neighborhoods. In 2004, the non-profit organization Humanim (a social and human services organization) secured $22.5 million to restore and renovate the building into</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZjn7FIKBKsnnwsKtKV9Zzod5QXp5xx-Ys3azxrIKpJ8xttm_RWlSvJV5Wr360tLSZvBrgvDAMLr0YZHvjWwZmmLOPDBHu-TUCia9NKh4X9VX8u4LlE7CHGgO2vKXk9R3VqmzIzOej3c/s320/DSC01806.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598076594522763010" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> their new headquarters. It is truly stunning - you should really go by sometime and check it out!</span><div><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Now that that is out of the way, I can actually talk about why I was there on Tuesday evening for, shocker, a Baltimore Green Week event. This one was a combo of a presentation by Baltimore Green Space followed by an awesome documentary crated by MICA students, entitled Baltimore Food Ecology Documentary (of, B FED - how clever!). Tracing the exodus of supermarkets from the city after the 1950s, as well as the disintegration of the city's systems of local food production, the documentary explored by the dominant food system falls short for so many Baltimore residents. With much of the city situated in what are known as "food deserts," the BFED team explored community gardens, produce warehouses, a local fish-farm, corner stores, and urban farms to find hope for a brighter food future for Baltimore. </span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSLxeV_GnxZR2B2yCu1UMh9x_c15Khbne37PDLIujBx5AuFVSxAfoisCYa4CSc6jNwnqy5ahugQHsCPpvPdP9YznQOlwoiGFNios6vDHgzfbZEODFmxLgLgG6p_UivXWhiMt67U14k7U/s1600/why1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSLxeV_GnxZR2B2yCu1UMh9x_c15Khbne37PDLIujBx5AuFVSxAfoisCYa4CSc6jNwnqy5ahugQHsCPpvPdP9YznQOlwoiGFNios6vDHgzfbZEODFmxLgLgG6p_UivXWhiMt67U14k7U/s320/why1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598076910442904210" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The idea of community gardens was elaborated upon in the presentation by <a href="http://www.baltimoregreenspace.org/pages/who-we-are.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Baltimore Green Space</span></a>. Working with residents throughout the city, BGS has helped fascinate the transformation of abandoned, desolate vacant lots into thriving community gardens that help nourish the neighborhood, both in terms of food and community-building. With help from BGS's land trust, communities can take ownership of these spaces and keep them safe from future development. With a future characterized by immense worldwide population and high transportation costs, the availability of locally grown food becomes an attractive, and necessary, reality. Additionally, green spaces create permeable surfaces for rain water to be absorb by the ground and make its way to waterways "naturally," as opposed to running off through storm drains. I just wrote <a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/2011/04/waste-water-magic-or-what-city-is-doing.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">a whole blog about this</span></a>, though, so I won't go back into details again, so as not to bore you, my darling readers. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3uTz6BwHuIsICn3I3PMJRX5lHFmEBui5tbhKhIHaG-MLLJvtaBg_-oAdw6EyrsDHB9L-HJVCo85sJmlP8d73o9XiWiqI8Nhgj6lfwyCSuZk0j_x51wJXUOQtblzHDD_N-kXyYnmDgIg/s1600/home1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3uTz6BwHuIsICn3I3PMJRX5lHFmEBui5tbhKhIHaG-MLLJvtaBg_-oAdw6EyrsDHB9L-HJVCo85sJmlP8d73o9XiWiqI8Nhgj6lfwyCSuZk0j_x51wJXUOQtblzHDD_N-kXyYnmDgIg/s320/home1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598076911834241170" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">There was so much to think about, so many ways to improve, and myriad ways to <a href="http://www.baltimoregreenspace.org/pages/how-to-preserve-an-open-space.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">take action</span></a>. What are your ideas to reduce the "food desert" effect in Baltimore? I want to know!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home</span></a></span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-28268990755542384432011-04-20T09:03:00.012-04:002011-04-20T10:10:28.926-04:00waste water magic (or, what the city is doing to try to stop us drowning in our own filth)<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0W7Wds1Nf1K2BsDGUQCx39oYWdTzFbMyQbfwaM0GCb5nyFxSaCrppx9VT2Ti9x7tVDGJU-iaJtlTl8rPzU0SY_HPkbXz31YKpG8y2SaGzgDfq_aF0-XUYsVVzVl0GWf3S2tftaoDZVqU/s1600/DSC01783.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0W7Wds1Nf1K2BsDGUQCx39oYWdTzFbMyQbfwaM0GCb5nyFxSaCrppx9VT2Ti9x7tVDGJU-iaJtlTl8rPzU0SY_HPkbXz31YKpG8y2SaGzgDfq_aF0-XUYsVVzVl0GWf3S2tftaoDZVqU/s320/DSC01783.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597664357261150754" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Are you sick of hearing about Baltimore Green Week yet? You better now be because you have some serious blogging coming your way about all things water-related: rain and runoff, sewage and streams. Let's get down to the murky business of what happens between a raincloud and a river. </span><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Monday was my day-long BWG marathon, with two back to back "City Day Tours" collectively called "Energy and Stormwater Solutions." Oh man, were we all over town! We learned about energy saving technologies the city is implementing, such as those at the Back River Treatment Plant. There, they use the residual methane gas to power the treatment plant, and even put energy back on the grid in the summer! It's a little horrifying to me that we are producing that much grossness, but.... at least they're making good use of it. It was really neat to see how the whole plant runs, with myriad</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvL79PHq6Js7nTVWyWX1ZxRLi59J43rnMtIncSvrQoDcZWbJA89JC2lirciwCD3NXvhzXFZMAuJmPRi0jrahtPVerJU8-_2JB4ZTROnRo3s-PqRMK9419KZ1IpGAkgKrSyacITyHdNX0/s320/DSC01780.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597664521729953426" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> steps to ensure that water being released back in to our rivers and bay are free of nutrients (that lead to algae blooms, and ultimately fish kills). Of course, we got to see the enormous golden digesters which have become infamous icons of Dundalk, as well as tour the engine rooms that make sure things keep flowing forward. One thing which was really disheartening was hearing about how our old sewage system is rife with cracking pipes, which inevitably lead to the cross-contamination between rain run off and sewage. With our bay already in dire straights, thinking about a constant leakage of sewage into ground water and run off drains is really....awful. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Our next stop was brand new, soon-to-be-opened LEED silver Homeless Services Center on Fallsway. It is just beautiful! With 275 beds, a green roof, reused materials, and a million other fancy energy efficiency features, this facility is truly inspiring on a lot of levels. What better way to help someone get back on their feet than giving them an address to temporarily call home with quality facilities, inspiring design, solid social services on hand, beautiful outdoor space and respect? As a society, this is what we should be striving to offer all our citizens. Way to go, Baltimore!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLXsA3H5byMTdQCBDNhpTh4bibBN0Ie2SkRpvA_oU2u7k_LKPnsxWiyqtlljus4BFzh7uXQgpozRm0Duxdm9AttBKzkDHsWsp19CExKFpCtApTttbR5YRoslxDoLxHqV1yj30JFz_yg4/s1600/DSC01791.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLXsA3H5byMTdQCBDNhpTh4bibBN0Ie2SkRpvA_oU2u7k_LKPnsxWiyqtlljus4BFzh7uXQgpozRm0Duxdm9AttBKzkDHsWsp19CExKFpCtApTttbR5YRoslxDoLxHqV1yj30JFz_yg4/s200/DSC01791.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597665019631666066" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYXGaEtURMg4bFk6Hx8RHpHjslthZw7RN1T9DGUUGimGcB-b781IPHnMilD1tr2mSO2Sjx3X2eP1YuQeSyc_EiIxOqCfP3VyfsxaLXJIHefUoKRFcD1oxTyIXvm-O9foBFdBxl_l7I2U/s1600/DSC01789.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYXGaEtURMg4bFk6Hx8RHpHjslthZw7RN1T9DGUUGimGcB-b781IPHnMilD1tr2mSO2Sjx3X2eP1YuQeSyc_EiIxOqCfP3VyfsxaLXJIHefUoKRFcD1oxTyIXvm-O9foBFdBxl_l7I2U/s200/DSC01789.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597665014000478482" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpq967RM6_-DhyphenhyphenJn0f_tMMWhMDbBY2y9x9NM_W801Fauli_j390ELrVphImvcsVs3Up8p5TaccYV-uX5HjNRdmJzvRP3nTSpuPwD7xOgkIjYPNKONB-VKV-JIQO47ovnGTUiceSqkGTpM/s1600/DSC01786.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpq967RM6_-DhyphenhyphenJn0f_tMMWhMDbBY2y9x9NM_W801Fauli_j390ELrVphImvcsVs3Up8p5TaccYV-uX5HjNRdmJzvRP3nTSpuPwD7xOgkIjYPNKONB-VKV-JIQO47ovnGTUiceSqkGTpM/s200/DSC01786.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597665009630386018" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xjfdci8C940jGUeCR0aS38ku6RdY0BV9UzQ_Jr5JCnCtqwJ1xk_vNZZg0NXQXKY7rryKHaluAelkfWMlfTmPFsk7M8mBBPpVWQhmL__ZNY63Ar6rGxIoGh2wTclhVyTse4PXP-N75r8/s1600/DSC01794.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xjfdci8C940jGUeCR0aS38ku6RdY0BV9UzQ_Jr5JCnCtqwJ1xk_vNZZg0NXQXKY7rryKHaluAelkfWMlfTmPFsk7M8mBBPpVWQhmL__ZNY63Ar6rGxIoGh2wTclhVyTse4PXP-N75r8/s200/DSC01794.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597667558148519234" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">After some free lunch donated by Chipotle, we were off again to see various rain gardens and run-off control designs. Long story short, the more you can slow down rain run-offer and get it out of the storm drains and back in to the soil, the better we all are. Soil and plants naturally filter and clean the water they absorb, so that</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRl5RAl1ipRbADso0IKmszTwjMkWKKsE-XaBr_SvNV6KDWe7hAxxPMpk2Io2ao92WArNwDllh3NPhBpGHJrH1844lvdup2W2k2bwiKsGHaPId4W_PpKUpB_w-h4s-4x3RFLvYkGaTT-E/s320/DSC01796.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597665675406039218" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">by the time it gets back in to our waterways it is a lot more environmentally sound than if it just shoots in to a storm drain and out to the bay. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Additionally, projects to restore the health of our streams have aided in improving the health of our waterways, such as the restoration we visited in Mt. Washington's Western Run. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">B</span></span><a href="http://bluewaterbaltimore.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">lue Water Baltimore</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> and the Department of Public Works have been doing</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3eT5-iw7GcqCMrFgzwDU_-eXKRhpQsQfvCI8SPOWEmNVY22wmEVT2bgPl1QW6Vuh9yf28NN_BwtaB_poYAgP8gMY8r2pvX4Ao1MOMBkC2rkRdykV5wHFBsHhuTVqZzCWhAAsRL6XfJk/s320/DSC01798.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597665344251187346" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> great work creating bio-retention systems, tree boxes, community-lead storm drain initiatives and helping residents create low-cost rain gardens, such as the one pictured here (in Roland Park) which also had a rain barrel.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Start thinking about options and ideas you have for decreasing your impact on our waterways. Beyond using less water in your day to day life, could you install a rain barrel? Create a rain garden? Make a green roof? Replace pavement and cement with permeable surfaces to enable rain to seep rather than drain? Can you inspire others to do the same and more? </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYcrNDH0pjDErHy4oRQCvA7cKKB2h5X__Wu2cIVFHZjlbQlM-rkpb9Ig25tNK4ZcDs9Lf9gGoxG6qsdV6KB0EWy0Hoaf4kTW6TihKh8FlSwrPlme5u9BbVmYfAlUDA9ll54DZUnIJsUzM/s400/DSC01801.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597666268372321762" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Oh man, I could go in to so much more detail, but I just wanted to give you all an overview of what we learned, what we saw, and what we can do to help! What questions do you have? What ideas have you implemented?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">return home</span></span></a></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-25324417982328857022011-04-17T18:50:00.018-04:002011-04-17T22:34:13.704-04:00living and loving local<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-C7ggUTMCxDN_06xKs0QEqAdmqs5r_f0RbU67-nd2tD4sbpiPHu4Cb8kxHGQMpvXJuvVuH9ZDGLzfsXHqmFmXne7xnAMroyjglnlpM2rEIsJ2LwqcJH7SlfvSJmPQ8kjETGmxWBmGMtA/s1600/DSC01774.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-C7ggUTMCxDN_06xKs0QEqAdmqs5r_f0RbU67-nd2tD4sbpiPHu4Cb8kxHGQMpvXJuvVuH9ZDGLzfsXHqmFmXne7xnAMroyjglnlpM2rEIsJ2LwqcJH7SlfvSJmPQ8kjETGmxWBmGMtA/s320/DSC01774.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596727098833274674" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiDhRgjpPbT3FVGrbbjX8wxIeQEoAQe3-9flpHj_dcoXPNxdqc4wbUKU-i9eO2KAPOg5pJPOC-PaqeKs7uuKueIQmKlChH9-__D31sKsAmZIveOOG2wgVGFmwakaL3zlek3_MnjqSuPU/s1600/DSC01755.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Saturday's rain (or should I say monsoon?) threw a wrench in a lot of fun plans this weekend, not the lease of which was the cancellation of Baltimore Green Weeks' kickoff event, EcoFest. Set to highlight myriad enviro-friendly organizations and local vendors from throughout the city, EcoFest was going to be a rollicking good time with live music, fresh food, demonstrations and activities in Druid Hill Park. Alas, it was not to be. And no rain date. Boo hoo.</span><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">But Sunday saw an eruption of sunshine, and so Green Week's</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiDhRgjpPbT3FVGrbbjX8wxIeQEoAQe3-9flpHj_dcoXPNxdqc4wbUKU-i9eO2KAPOg5pJPOC-PaqeKs7uuKueIQmKlChH9-__D31sKsAmZIveOOG2wgVGFmwakaL3zlek3_MnjqSuPU/s1600/DSC01755.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiDhRgjpPbT3FVGrbbjX8wxIeQEoAQe3-9flpHj_dcoXPNxdqc4wbUKU-i9eO2KAPOg5pJPOC-PaqeKs7uuKueIQmKlChH9-__D31sKsAmZIveOOG2wgVGFmwakaL3zlek3_MnjqSuPU/s320/DSC01755.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596725526808947330" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDQrfZ5yVKE7IEtoirNAzQBaiTq2-gSW7-2AdQi-R1P1NMH6CwcDZO2PkPWAMIjD65s_ty7E4wSPD8Zp3uC8h2JFi3w4LDu7OS2kloDaiHpPM-a_Zv-pfhthJTaa_oI4_aR8TRZGTsbA/s1600/BN01-Promo-300x276.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">activities marched on. I had read about and eagerly awaited "Localize It!", hosted by </span><a href="http://www.baltimorefreefarm.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Baltimore Free Farm</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> in conjunction with </span><a href="http://baltimoregreencurrency.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Baltimore Green Currency</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> with the goal of showing how fun sustainability can be. And fun it was! We arrived at the moment of launch for "BNotes," complete with the release of green balloons and BNote currency. What on earth are BNotes, you wonder? So glad you asked! According to BGC's website, they offer an "alternative economic that will strengthen local businesses, create jobs, encourage the for formation of local supply chains, and ultimately rpovide economic opportunity and increased resilience to communities underserved by traditional economic</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrYNG4pFZ4sk8NuoECXxURFSDZNhVdCYwwX9ZlDweGpL9J2vG6sMmpmITLZZUmfESmfj85-lL_s_YCBvG3UQez2MFL1_vA2qOAGkzpOKfUP5MHNV1-7fH8F1FFc7afmr6cXBbDqmGoKsY/s200/DSC01753.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596728408480520578" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> structures." Long story short, you trade "normal" money for "BNotes" which you then use at the 48 local businesses as cash (the list of businesses is growing all the time so stay tuned to the </span><a href="http://baltimoregreencurrency.org/merchant-directory"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">director</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">y</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">!). The goal is to get people to think local, buy local, and be local. Plus, the BNotes look pretty cool!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">After much fanfare and cheering, the BNotes became official local currency and the festival got underway. At the core of Localize It! was a chili cook-off and home brew tap-off (I made that up. But I like it) called "ChiliBrew" - for a suggested donation of $10, you got a sweet tasting mug and all the chili and beer samples your heart desired. Oooh, how yummy! I don't even </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">like</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> beer and I enjoyed myself! Top prize in my books went to the Thai-inspired chili and to LOVEBREW beer. To round out the festivities, there was a line-up of neat local bands of all genres. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk76QYqP6NNVIwvAZ9yCz2luCYIpkLzaBRcFLFACwuv2GmsynfTGC8lq87r4zHjtzmNaj0ZLIqWno2Zfjj02CbG9UibV-oXiF3PXglSQa0sj5COpHRwchudcJ2_YxkFi4-6HgGhAVzU44/s1600/DSC01761.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk76QYqP6NNVIwvAZ9yCz2luCYIpkLzaBRcFLFACwuv2GmsynfTGC8lq87r4zHjtzmNaj0ZLIqWno2Zfjj02CbG9UibV-oXiF3PXglSQa0sj5COpHRwchudcJ2_YxkFi4-6HgGhAVzU44/s320/DSC01761.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596730747138729554" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMHhpVW1hBY_RJ7d_1N7vUiMGThlmPCGCssTc5sB0lUpiqNcqf4Zt4z5sBkyo-VrHKWGH4_DxLi6qvggO36UssREND2opGEfq3JViBASDi84LhAWo6sx6vcE7axj3R_9cmDOxsf13-rw/s1600/DSC01760.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMHhpVW1hBY_RJ7d_1N7vUiMGThlmPCGCssTc5sB0lUpiqNcqf4Zt4z5sBkyo-VrHKWGH4_DxLi6qvggO36UssREND2opGEfq3JViBASDi84LhAWo6sx6vcE7axj3R_9cmDOxsf13-rw/s320/DSC01760.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596730743385250194" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Localize It! took place on Ash street, which is where one can find the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><a href="http://www.baltimorefreefarm.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Baltimore Free Farm</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">a really neat organization striving to promote "urban agriculture and sustainability through the creation of green spaces and community sanctuaries which utilize reclaimed materials whenever possible." The huge hillside lot was open to the public to see how volunteers have transformed overgrown abandoned lots into wonderful and fruitful farming. It's such a neat project and incredibly inspiring to see what dedication on the part of so many has done to improve the lives of even more. I really suggest you go check it out!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTk5YWYPXwFsivlNQqOEmAklVYIBvI02LKiUyBa2kg4S6mbIOLE8PYvfhfcdLVPNUjpUiLVi5OfnbYAY218r7dYFGZ3U7m3kAnmtEKqOLBwgsoIPSGz0SAoOMvwbjhxkVH-S1IPz79ktA/s1600/DSC01756.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTk5YWYPXwFsivlNQqOEmAklVYIBvI02LKiUyBa2kg4S6mbIOLE8PYvfhfcdLVPNUjpUiLVi5OfnbYAY218r7dYFGZ3U7m3kAnmtEKqOLBwgsoIPSGz0SAoOMvwbjhxkVH-S1IPz79ktA/s320/DSC01756.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596732692053318050" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpov80GK2HgZfdaMPk67_8U1qPK3HSScssEFnqMN14Uid3CNpPAQqNQkicaPWtB9dVq0mt6hGB8CZ5Sam_KM3Yyi-0jUpmvl9IFfPD29WUYy3Wk7JXkzAbcbsOEDJNdK1YKpLxfNF3QTQ/s1600/DSC01757.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpov80GK2HgZfdaMPk67_8U1qPK3HSScssEFnqMN14Uid3CNpPAQqNQkicaPWtB9dVq0mt6hGB8CZ5Sam_KM3Yyi-0jUpmvl9IFfPD29WUYy3Wk7JXkzAbcbsOEDJNdK1YKpLxfNF3QTQ/s320/DSC01757.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596732698846797938" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj73qzsebUJtPkx2xKxLd5s6O6GfG_QeO5pM18gD6nOhoAnE4_oS72PkidJzzvBn5dJ3x6ljZkG3sbre3DIsa8bnbHJU76pG-77pkjsiigJQqmSdrbOD5mONPkDNIVNoghqatePaKsU4Z4/s1600/DSC01758.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj73qzsebUJtPkx2xKxLd5s6O6GfG_QeO5pM18gD6nOhoAnE4_oS72PkidJzzvBn5dJ3x6ljZkG3sbre3DIsa8bnbHJU76pG-77pkjsiigJQqmSdrbOD5mONPkDNIVNoghqatePaKsU4Z4/s200/DSC01758.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596735756503834882" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcO8erS9E7l3PSjrHqHvu9LNJMKIGauVMJdiKDKRgPr4qjDlzescZkJV5luO1lA0QA7wPY0GuAluLws5W8I0rH5Va76U7-p-gL02z6pwYu6PBYOiXymi59GgT88K9AZOiYtFJcb-VAnw/s1600/DSC01759.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcO8erS9E7l3PSjrHqHvu9LNJMKIGauVMJdiKDKRgPr4qjDlzescZkJV5luO1lA0QA7wPY0GuAluLws5W8I0rH5Va76U7-p-gL02z6pwYu6PBYOiXymi59GgT88K9AZOiYtFJcb-VAnw/s200/DSC01759.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596735759227815938" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Here are just a few other images from the day, to give you a feel for the fun and festive atmosphere!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBitfuMG1-kaQ9stjgtK_K3iFp4EC2u-qc3jd4xcdyBIHnqjCeX0ptWjW9BNpW4gNJ4A2lz8DHUPhzJ0puYou8GBkUvt13bJsWUvReE9KBLlXqJcQXU24bgXj7YCu5og5VkIcsobLKbj0/s1600/DSC01763.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBitfuMG1-kaQ9stjgtK_K3iFp4EC2u-qc3jd4xcdyBIHnqjCeX0ptWjW9BNpW4gNJ4A2lz8DHUPhzJ0puYou8GBkUvt13bJsWUvReE9KBLlXqJcQXU24bgXj7YCu5og5VkIcsobLKbj0/s200/DSC01763.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596738006481615282" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNK722tQF8BB1ZDQ1tV8GoYDqFLxn2WHo-2EbgHzJlQ4ZDZXVqYmXU0z2RaB00K__6yqkKkarsMquiwxnRxA2N0Fy4qmYopV8V6OyTZZzL59ivkzuPOVYHF2xBO0Mjk0v561XcmM2PKA/s1600/DSC01768.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNK722tQF8BB1ZDQ1tV8GoYDqFLxn2WHo-2EbgHzJlQ4ZDZXVqYmXU0z2RaB00K__6yqkKkarsMquiwxnRxA2N0Fy4qmYopV8V6OyTZZzL59ivkzuPOVYHF2xBO0Mjk0v561XcmM2PKA/s200/DSC01768.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596738015999409090" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGP3zA5f-TEdc9SiNLK-nJGAzNSt1VcQAHb4rmarBvxG6PttGOHJQnN7Ydh84TuB2PLJ3antQvYh9siiPN2wD5SAdcZWaMPoZrW-8LxIcAJgrAjGfdQhPPevgDuTdDNjdY84nOfy0phTE/s1600/DSC01762.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGP3zA5f-TEdc9SiNLK-nJGAzNSt1VcQAHb4rmarBvxG6PttGOHJQnN7Ydh84TuB2PLJ3antQvYh9siiPN2wD5SAdcZWaMPoZrW-8LxIcAJgrAjGfdQhPPevgDuTdDNjdY84nOfy0phTE/s320/DSC01762.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596740588057614546" style="cursor: pointer; width: 258px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixb79PCR8JIYOrDNoKii4vhceQVV2zIbO3Sulsl-KjFlLHTXbOruEUMhpef1OpIsVMeBqpbe8WS107Q3jXnLjmTiAwNrFKEzwxwJAxxkLgz3ffI7pERc3PbqFry3fcUr58qD2X0Nj6l7I/s1600/DSC01772.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixb79PCR8JIYOrDNoKii4vhceQVV2zIbO3Sulsl-KjFlLHTXbOruEUMhpef1OpIsVMeBqpbe8WS107Q3jXnLjmTiAwNrFKEzwxwJAxxkLgz3ffI7pERc3PbqFry3fcUr58qD2X0Nj6l7I/s320/DSC01772.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596740585137923890" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqp4AHoj9LfEuqKf-DcuOBgdi0M4PwvKmTcPCcpDobkC_HFUXgHBdtJKuZ8Zln9hd2Rzhz-spS9cOd4jl-vvwZvqRkmfbrjqH0j_w4wAtexJ9P7D-LapZ0ZkrCzuUcLHmtCrNrZwo0g_I/s1600/DSC01769.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqp4AHoj9LfEuqKf-DcuOBgdi0M4PwvKmTcPCcpDobkC_HFUXgHBdtJKuZ8Zln9hd2Rzhz-spS9cOd4jl-vvwZvqRkmfbrjqH0j_w4wAtexJ9P7D-LapZ0ZkrCzuUcLHmtCrNrZwo0g_I/s320/DSC01769.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596745751735272514" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB23FnSHniQnXrYi84hBQ10dJy8HM3n3-0XDUl5E2RvLXanvwmuuIbR-Y6adkc0D-yIJQedXR0H8vmcnatq689rXHXsI6DZOuYgmO1Rv7ukWdtlnhOVNmRSx5bfN_tts2l2LxZi9zW-jE/s1600/DSC01775.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB23FnSHniQnXrYi84hBQ10dJy8HM3n3-0XDUl5E2RvLXanvwmuuIbR-Y6adkc0D-yIJQedXR0H8vmcnatq689rXHXsI6DZOuYgmO1Rv7ukWdtlnhOVNmRSx5bfN_tts2l2LxZi9zW-jE/s320/DSC01775.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596745745078055026" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6s4hBgWMpVtAtelQ9yslAfOf985yC7_TckDqbmIqr8if0NvQ8qQVwRz-33_JUYJMBzkA38gWKxDpaecTHP8aPh8oFEip5Ce6XA6i33hrOPRJgT5WELShjukbsgMhfxkWorSSJtR6XpM/s1600/DSC01773.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6s4hBgWMpVtAtelQ9yslAfOf985yC7_TckDqbmIqr8if0NvQ8qQVwRz-33_JUYJMBzkA38gWKxDpaecTHP8aPh8oFEip5Ce6XA6i33hrOPRJgT5WELShjukbsgMhfxkWorSSJtR6XpM/s320/DSC01773.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596745743209863650" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Such a great and exciting day! I really didn't know what to expect this morning, but I'm so glad I seized the (windy) day and ventured over. I am even more excited to go to the other </span><a href="http://baltimoregreenworks.com/events/baltimore-green-week/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Baltimore Green Week events</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> I have on my schedule this week! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">return home</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-69477533731630079052011-04-14T16:35:00.018-04:002011-04-15T09:44:11.309-04:00the young urbanite's spring shopping list<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHajhoF9EGJIjoEIMdrR3awk9pTqxvv8NDdUqNjRBia8UTDlMBnoRDz4YzX5dkjUkTbZDz7KSbEbDiQQ0aaR8m-tl406v5_bVvyLrD7NcjSmQRMRAgKLmrMNjG57-o0hrpTP1IxMBWSg/s1600/08082010marketbag.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 223px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHajhoF9EGJIjoEIMdrR3awk9pTqxvv8NDdUqNjRBia8UTDlMBnoRDz4YzX5dkjUkTbZDz7KSbEbDiQQ0aaR8m-tl406v5_bVvyLrD7NcjSmQRMRAgKLmrMNjG57-o0hrpTP1IxMBWSg/s320/08082010marketbag.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595803455865629506" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0mIqmuIegNlHCdmkLHK3nYCkN8xMpntYmp1x091fBx_PBPMZY41MxrY0Re1AP5fxJ8nl_T01MDIb8oSUpp2J7AVy-tYyPp3L5rhM1Sk49u3wsIva_di6agvcrmBFErhw_Q0pfQKe9tV4/s1600/lucnh7.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>This post could, more honestly, be entitled "Things K wants to buy (or has already bought) and for which she is seeking justification." But that's a little wordy, no? I digress. Spring may be playing a really ill-advised and mean-spirited game of cat and mouse with us, but I've had just enough hours of sunshine and warmth to have my spring cleaning and preparation juices get flowing. You see, I hate winter in a way that is laughable. I refuse to buy winter clothing (I have about 4 outfits all winter. I'm almost not exaggerating). I hole up in a bear-like manner. I leave the country for </span><a href="http://www.guavaberryspringbay.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">warmer waters</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> at </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">least</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> once -and then act like a fate worse than death has struck me when I return. Winter is, in my opinion, an offense against taste and decency*.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Oh, but once it is warm! I want to go everywhere and do everything. Farmers' markets, bike rides, al fresco dinners, coffee shop strolls, picnics in the park, games of tennis, dog park outings, backyard bbq's</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">, games of capture the flag... you name it. I want to do it. In one day.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">All this makes one want a few choice accessories, however, to fully embrace the urban lifestyle. Here are a few items on my Spring wish-list - I think you'll want them, too:</span></span></span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">How can I combine cruisin' on my sweet beach cruiser and coffee without </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">a</span></b><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhwBYhJV6OsDyzq4MYjKV3vEKTDy8G1OW0JVhGxTEetZanwuXbVcOHG39M4LPvwOADjYbbkSZWH1EcLUO3UuMQUVb4sCpDEosGRRMm7ZqOtpUuhYad7iBerjgUqBgv2HLsLytyJ7uX-0/s200/37f0c060ada0e858525ea110.L.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595796357418445026" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> handlebar beverage holder</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">? Now that I know this actually exists, the real question is, how have I been living without one? Coffee from Fell's Points' Daily Grind or a smoothie from Liquid Earth perched in there would really complete my lil' urbanite look, don't you think? </span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">While we're on the topic of bicycles, I also think a couple of these </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><a href="http://publicbikes.com/p/Clarijs-Clip-On-Shopper-Pannier"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">bicycle clip on shopper b</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">ags</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> would at least double my purchasing power at the farmers' market - clearly my front basket is not enough! Just don't look at the price tag and it'll be juuuust fine...</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I believe that one should be prepared for a picnic at all times - that's why I keep a blanket in my trunk all summer, a woven wooden </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKRgS0X11-kxKwHr5YfnqTKxK2pVNvq-gLwrHr0raEK2ooA7qYyD9fI3mwS0v-_fjrgrSowoD8jHQi5GTqcVNYXl2ajJMNvT2rje5c9kLkJd5QwrmvPiXOzty5S9eGabcBZEVCVSfMZc/s200/viv-r4.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595800073381081346" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">picnic basket with a red and white checked liner handy (this is, in fact, true) as well a rainbow</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> Tiffen box</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">. </span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">For anyone who likes their food separated and </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">not</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> touching I recommend purchasing one of these ASAP - plus you feel pretty snazzy walking in to work with one, too. Brown paper bag? Snooze. Rainbow Tiffen box? Cool! </span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Now that I think about it, I could really use an upgrade to a</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0mIqmuIegNlHCdmkLHK3nYCkN8xMpntYmp1x091fBx_PBPMZY41MxrY0Re1AP5fxJ8nl_T01MDIb8oSUpp2J7AVy-tYyPp3L5rhM1Sk49u3wsIva_di6agvcrmBFErhw_Q0pfQKe9tV4/s200/lucnh7.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595801988106624402" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 160px; " /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> cuter </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">picnic blanket </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">- the gray cotton one from an academic camp I inherited from a long-gone roommate just doesn't scream "cool." I could probably make myself one, but then I'd need a sewing machine...and also learn how to sew. Etsy has some cute ones, though....</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Finally, for the fashionable femme, give your urban lifestyle a pastural flourish with </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">a ravishing sunhat</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">. Just because we live in a city, doesn't mean we can't get over-sunned, so safety first and all that. </span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">So there's your spring shopping list - errr, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">my</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> spring shopping list. Now if only my garden and patio would plant and clean themselves... </span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">*bragging rights to whomever knows the book from which that quote is taken. Only cheaters Google. And everyone knows that cheaters are losers. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div></div><div><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">return home</span></span></a></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-42826992134983571122011-04-13T13:37:00.004-04:002011-04-14T10:12:51.690-04:00patterson park wins the prize - again!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgA2-dGYfvTK5EnM1vmvhlGvI-XP8TQP2W7fASDgj7M7MDW4oNm19nDfviiIg_8mEfO0KDSNuer-6Q4wFM9JFrsTasOMJXqSWQjjdKwZTld-2_DAlZmSczvIKk8FXYi30W3trWyfybBw/s1600/201104-w-city-parks-patterson.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 380px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgA2-dGYfvTK5EnM1vmvhlGvI-XP8TQP2W7fASDgj7M7MDW4oNm19nDfviiIg_8mEfO0KDSNuer-6Q4wFM9JFrsTasOMJXqSWQjjdKwZTld-2_DAlZmSczvIKk8FXYi30W3trWyfybBw/s400/201104-w-city-parks-patterson.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595440833546337618" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">We did it again! Patterson Park has got to be the reigning champion of underdog winners in media by now.</span><a href="http://ilovepattersonpark.org/subpages/media.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> Let's reca</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">p: We've been in Southern Living, Bang for Your Buck, local TV, The Urbanite, Baltimore Sun, Forbes, and I'm sure myriad others that I have either forgotten or never saw. And now? Well, now we're in Travel & Leisure's </span><a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/americas-coolest-city-parks/4"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">list of "America's Coolest City Parks.</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">" Bam!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">In the list with us are 12 other city parks, including Grant Park (Chicago), NYC's Central Park (Snooze.Played out. Too crowded. Keep your park, New York), Papago Park (Tempe), City Park (New Orleans), and Golden Gate Park (San Francisco) - as you can see, we were in with the big dogs.<br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">It's a short snipped highlighting our quirky features, such as the uber-long sculptures in the "little park" (apparently that long blob is, in fact, a caterpillar - who knew), the Kinetic Sculpture Race (coming up in May!), the Great Halloween Lantern Parade, BARCStoberfest, and the Pagoda. According to T&L, the best time to visit our beloved Park is in May, but I think ANY time is a good time - heck, even in the winter we have an ice skating rink! In your faces, other parks!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Yup, we're officially big time. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">It's going to be nice out again today - so why don't you go take a stroll around our </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">award winning</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> park, huh? </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k </span></div><div><div><br /><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script></div></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home</span></a></span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-41292497193058433882011-04-13T08:15:00.022-04:002011-04-13T10:44:19.480-04:00my birthday in a blog!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS5QC7L0J5ww9uOWceHOuXp1yUPtVqM4QFCPh-vqv-rqIgYkKD_YnloKTKVHOjLR1hEunmaZRRckBHqmiM9pCgEyoXiVsYGBmcfg7NK4cECkkuTre_0SS5nfNPgFnsXdhWl7GvohyD4sQ/s1600/DSC01653.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS5QC7L0J5ww9uOWceHOuXp1yUPtVqM4QFCPh-vqv-rqIgYkKD_YnloKTKVHOjLR1hEunmaZRRckBHqmiM9pCgEyoXiVsYGBmcfg7NK4cECkkuTre_0SS5nfNPgFnsXdhWl7GvohyD4sQ/s320/DSC01653.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595051371385827106" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Yesterday was my birthday! I take birthdays pretty seriously - in college, we set aside the month of April as "Kimival" with different activities each night, posted on a whiteboard on my door - and </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">this</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> one was of specific excitement to me. Why, you ask? I've had some weird thing bout 27 for years now - it stands out as this really awesome age. It's the perfect balance of youth and maturity, leniency and legitimacy. I'm <i>thrilled. </i></span><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">My family kicked off my birthday week with presents then dinner at <a href="http://www.woodberrykitchen.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Woodberry Kitchen</span></a>, my fav restaurant ever. It was awesome, of course, and I was full for approximately 18 hours afterwords. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSra6QgOx0oBe936sCq4rjZEbV9uHY3KVCbcF0VE31i15tAxEuP77k661b9K0-KysfkpqBpvmJS5aXHNhpllHdwEP_OhaKaF9AgGic2wR5X1JTz4UEWE36A6H_erKXTLoPbsfZRD7HNVs/s1600/DSC01656.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSra6QgOx0oBe936sCq4rjZEbV9uHY3KVCbcF0VE31i15tAxEuP77k661b9K0-KysfkpqBpvmJS5aXHNhpllHdwEP_OhaKaF9AgGic2wR5X1JTz4UEWE36A6H_erKXTLoPbsfZRD7HNVs/s320/DSC01656.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595050267599152754" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLdM_DuUmNdnAjANOBQ1__R1N4r864uVO5LseCy_y2Ay9KLTLZTTwf5IOBf-FXt1AZ6G3fTmg6tt5oVsAzpRYl4v-iWJ-yQd6hTETNBATTxtWPk3naBZqpIRrdkqKP6fudhvP1Pyf9OE/s1600/DSC01662.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLdM_DuUmNdnAjANOBQ1__R1N4r864uVO5LseCy_y2Ay9KLTLZTTwf5IOBf-FXt1AZ6G3fTmg6tt5oVsAzpRYl4v-iWJ-yQd6hTETNBATTxtWPk3naBZqpIRrdkqKP6fudhvP1Pyf9OE/s320/DSC01662.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595050259641695538" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif" alt="Add Image" border="0" class="gl_photo" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6R0FQJaCb4soOPvaM3Lkal94ZWESOfFiNXFavbeZx0DPNhTp9ftPxoJN0x4CLkx8HJE6BWGVOkwVk-GLVjHtIIvMqGI-olr58v11TXeqqzTsWOlIH0nHU5Svxm_fsCQoJ8aV10dwEj7k/s1600/DSC01666.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6R0FQJaCb4soOPvaM3Lkal94ZWESOfFiNXFavbeZx0DPNhTp9ftPxoJN0x4CLkx8HJE6BWGVOkwVk-GLVjHtIIvMqGI-olr58v11TXeqqzTsWOlIH0nHU5Svxm_fsCQoJ8aV10dwEj7k/s320/DSC01666.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595050255327309618" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvLtCCXlhDCn2keOYL6MXMeYc0Dq0rD4YWipE-AXsi6DswOAO0jc_a6_rHqj-5awj39VjR_aHNBnY80st9OMnrBcoH7pfEZv84Ndbyb0g_r-lVbGUt8JgtzNUpqLC9Mvg4CCq57rtUek/s1600/DSC01659.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvLtCCXlhDCn2keOYL6MXMeYc0Dq0rD4YWipE-AXsi6DswOAO0jc_a6_rHqj-5awj39VjR_aHNBnY80st9OMnrBcoH7pfEZv84Ndbyb0g_r-lVbGUt8JgtzNUpqLC9Mvg4CCq57rtUek/s320/DSC01659.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595052869689656226" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Woodberry set the bar high, and I was determined to maintain that standard all week. With this in mind, I planned my work week around it. The entire day of April 12th was blocked off and scheduled around - I would have a day of fun and celebration. But in all my scheduling <i>around</i> the day, I didn't think to schedule my actual birthday. I mean, great, no appointments, but also no friends to play with! Well, not quite true, I had the early morning with Jules and N for coffee, breakfast (made my ned, YUM), house decorated by Jules, lovely note from Sarah. I'm a lucky one, I am. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8ECo23I24KS8QKHwGkZWYu9doyBI-zCrlImNDYBoTpDq5yxWc0hNKJDDZPkyx5fyNCyQ34p388-N7CyPqHWrOLABx2dLmN3nGa_luQM5YLxV0sEELgTbcV35lBBKVUmuAJ0nl-VcTnY/s1600/DSC01670.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8ECo23I24KS8QKHwGkZWYu9doyBI-zCrlImNDYBoTpDq5yxWc0hNKJDDZPkyx5fyNCyQ34p388-N7CyPqHWrOLABx2dLmN3nGa_luQM5YLxV0sEELgTbcV35lBBKVUmuAJ0nl-VcTnY/s320/DSC01670.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595055717572767650" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUYt3Th18PRYrUlgxdXKKM74p8iyQ5ee7S2apt2wbw1aofk_73TJjQciGU6IRVNDOrRlqN2eVxI2i_SCFLMDyo5lAGtzxlOsdkewUDI2F89GiIxGTbymKb8NF4gQlE3tVAkTVD8eZ9JhY/s1600/DSC01674.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUYt3Th18PRYrUlgxdXKKM74p8iyQ5ee7S2apt2wbw1aofk_73TJjQciGU6IRVNDOrRlqN2eVxI2i_SCFLMDyo5lAGtzxlOsdkewUDI2F89GiIxGTbymKb8NF4gQlE3tVAkTVD8eZ9JhY/s320/DSC01674.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595055725108040834" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0jF-nRwVFy5wxMpnFy9W5Q6xCfLzLza4wAaE-ljTdRboCJC11mlpfMzi3y1ERF56qv82kUmRyGVVi_sf5wUFHETSwx6EZWfxf63RDT4Q3tNohZ_GnV0nwK2NmhvPEkgGsJc5j9ei7lg/s1600/DSC01676.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0jF-nRwVFy5wxMpnFy9W5Q6xCfLzLza4wAaE-ljTdRboCJC11mlpfMzi3y1ERF56qv82kUmRyGVVi_sf5wUFHETSwx6EZWfxf63RDT4Q3tNohZ_GnV0nwK2NmhvPEkgGsJc5j9ei7lg/s320/DSC01676.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595056827710773778" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0jF-nRwVFy5wxMpnFy9W5Q6xCfLzLza4wAaE-ljTdRboCJC11mlpfMzi3y1ERF56qv82kUmRyGVVi_sf5wUFHETSwx6EZWfxf63RDT4Q3tNohZ_GnV0nwK2NmhvPEkgGsJc5j9ei7lg/s1600/DSC01676.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5aEy0CmnXfJCkqpn3gjqy6DgHrL4Rr4QzAZYOaBpvv4vNBAHcr5EqjqwlaiG9abzVAqGLCnNukUej_9FiF9nt6nw6ko2HkuINXOUtePglfRuq2uipLGAKjZoQcf4RALLe0kNLza2GcRU/s1600/DSC01651.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5aEy0CmnXfJCkqpn3gjqy6DgHrL4Rr4QzAZYOaBpvv4vNBAHcr5EqjqwlaiG9abzVAqGLCnNukUej_9FiF9nt6nw6ko2HkuINXOUtePglfRuq2uipLGAKjZoQcf4RALLe0kNLza2GcRU/s320/DSC01651.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595046943803583218" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">But off they went, and in came the rain. Undeterred, I forged on. I decided I'd start my new year with perseverance and positivity (and apparently purple prose). Instead of kicking it on my couch bemoaning the rain, I set out on a mission to experience beauty in Baltimore. I threw on a raincoat, grabbed my camera (rainy pictures aren't the best, but better than nothing, right?), and set off to explore Druid Hill Park, Cylburn Arboretum and Hampden. I got really wet, saw gorgeous flowers, nooks and crannies of baltimore I'd never seen, got sad when the Conservatory was closed, rescued a LOT of worms stranded on pavement, and resisted the urge to purchase myriad cool things. So here you go - my day in photos:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqcVQMLk_78EW0Pken5AoxdSj3905ntGdGoCNEPk5lA-FjTg8B42-MARb18Qe9MplvogqaAmbhfYCRUrdk4y0gFcMpHfYLW1PG6LTffyWpIN0Tfm9iTPt1241FSxDwgbtq7v8BabzcAc/s1600/DSC01683.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqcVQMLk_78EW0Pken5AoxdSj3905ntGdGoCNEPk5lA-FjTg8B42-MARb18Qe9MplvogqaAmbhfYCRUrdk4y0gFcMpHfYLW1PG6LTffyWpIN0Tfm9iTPt1241FSxDwgbtq7v8BabzcAc/s320/DSC01683.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595062370008657074" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJMLjrfuyTzqGj5r4DFqHZzUk7LE9cV6CC6Pn-f61fVAUScREwISa1ikXzgWC4FDsg_h-NZ7hePppep4px_6qly1_ymreGmoPqDTb4nt26Pq0miLvKgFi7KCEt1p0CJqu8l3sDrTCm-c/s1600/DSC01685.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJMLjrfuyTzqGj5r4DFqHZzUk7LE9cV6CC6Pn-f61fVAUScREwISa1ikXzgWC4FDsg_h-NZ7hePppep4px_6qly1_ymreGmoPqDTb4nt26Pq0miLvKgFi7KCEt1p0CJqu8l3sDrTCm-c/s320/DSC01685.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595062370966027106" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDR1cBlMmY2FUcYjFDCFEm-TfpSB06Y9sLPGrAZswuz_XBeANZBq3NoZox_d0caXzxOtLSONaUvmOmhW1e6S8O0MuUZzIT_OfZ2trFFpmTZx5qQz7E4mOKknGPqjyefAa7MXovST_u3E/s1600/DSC01694.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDR1cBlMmY2FUcYjFDCFEm-TfpSB06Y9sLPGrAZswuz_XBeANZBq3NoZox_d0caXzxOtLSONaUvmOmhW1e6S8O0MuUZzIT_OfZ2trFFpmTZx5qQz7E4mOKknGPqjyefAa7MXovST_u3E/s320/DSC01694.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595062373964095154" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDR1cBlMmY2FUcYjFDCFEm-TfpSB06Y9sLPGrAZswuz_XBeANZBq3NoZox_d0caXzxOtLSONaUvmOmhW1e6S8O0MuUZzIT_OfZ2trFFpmTZx5qQz7E4mOKknGPqjyefAa7MXovST_u3E/s1600/DSC01694.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ryOoTuupeByuMi_boBeua8yPfXyr0G2f0yoFmppPhK8wcb5s9ArQunRHKx6PeWFbAuhTrO5eALOW_vTu91ZPwpFFMQ4UH3kEeTGNSgqrbefJMNIgUfRD26pMKNGBE-ymd4Lznkw2kyI/s1600/DSC01686.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ryOoTuupeByuMi_boBeua8yPfXyr0G2f0yoFmppPhK8wcb5s9ArQunRHKx6PeWFbAuhTrO5eALOW_vTu91ZPwpFFMQ4UH3kEeTGNSgqrbefJMNIgUfRD26pMKNGBE-ymd4Lznkw2kyI/s320/DSC01686.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595062382744911970" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmecDxS3c_4_1SRo1rBRzkWjlU491_IUypPqE9-WF0ohLRjDYw4lcRKiUKM_91BIMovm4MoKrVMrcI-gwAHhFEXqHIKFpIgQ8Yd72Q26ukxUFAd9CRm5nopJMdzXe7GFmi1gHNeZPd4OQ/s1600/DSC01699.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmecDxS3c_4_1SRo1rBRzkWjlU491_IUypPqE9-WF0ohLRjDYw4lcRKiUKM_91BIMovm4MoKrVMrcI-gwAHhFEXqHIKFpIgQ8Yd72Q26ukxUFAd9CRm5nopJMdzXe7GFmi1gHNeZPd4OQ/s320/DSC01699.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595065594383582434" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmecDxS3c_4_1SRo1rBRzkWjlU491_IUypPqE9-WF0ohLRjDYw4lcRKiUKM_91BIMovm4MoKrVMrcI-gwAHhFEXqHIKFpIgQ8Yd72Q26ukxUFAd9CRm5nopJMdzXe7GFmi1gHNeZPd4OQ/s1600/DSC01699.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOpoByKnaIqfJ-V8cAEEj_GCY0RPCxBm937o308Ahyphenhyphen3C0I5xu5fh1V3IFbIY9bQKgoav_qauK6t2IJiuhXMJV7Q29_7gG0O-5FnKS2TYf0ibtWWXIyCQzyiX_J9R26bNTklo84EE_qiI/s1600/DSC01702.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOpoByKnaIqfJ-V8cAEEj_GCY0RPCxBm937o308Ahyphenhyphen3C0I5xu5fh1V3IFbIY9bQKgoav_qauK6t2IJiuhXMJV7Q29_7gG0O-5FnKS2TYf0ibtWWXIyCQzyiX_J9R26bNTklo84EE_qiI/s320/DSC01702.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595065604468842418" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqJ_plzuGLlhyphenhyphenwC4uYdoNoBYsBEjtz0nIgqjcj8G9Jzb6rCsmM9i8Ub6cLpQ4qEiaeqVNg7nKitJuqzwV65rlD9q0WJS2ro8ul0cFwoicw1tpA5nK66EF9a8vygBYh3cK5i1ynkpI2FA/s1600/DSC01703.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqJ_plzuGLlhyphenhyphenwC4uYdoNoBYsBEjtz0nIgqjcj8G9Jzb6rCsmM9i8Ub6cLpQ4qEiaeqVNg7nKitJuqzwV65rlD9q0WJS2ro8ul0cFwoicw1tpA5nK66EF9a8vygBYh3cK5i1ynkpI2FA/s320/DSC01703.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595065597002487330" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqJ_plzuGLlhyphenhyphenwC4uYdoNoBYsBEjtz0nIgqjcj8G9Jzb6rCsmM9i8Ub6cLpQ4qEiaeqVNg7nKitJuqzwV65rlD9q0WJS2ro8ul0cFwoicw1tpA5nK66EF9a8vygBYh3cK5i1ynkpI2FA/s1600/DSC01703.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadsxJoDfn-BEARa1l8vRWUPghsjqS32tyCXHNfJV7SodcpjT940OJ1kZenDdCP3wn8plrFtJTVL3lcTd2wzRERV37toUAcTTXUQ84syaVN_tk7TdmV-Y9DU8bZq53LnTgxrSdbF6HOZs/s1600/DSC01704.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadsxJoDfn-BEARa1l8vRWUPghsjqS32tyCXHNfJV7SodcpjT940OJ1kZenDdCP3wn8plrFtJTVL3lcTd2wzRERV37toUAcTTXUQ84syaVN_tk7TdmV-Y9DU8bZq53LnTgxrSdbF6HOZs/s320/DSC01704.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595065605336118482" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2Sky-Y6f4HycEWIpGCfAPdU-97GleicRutdstqPAC2qzeNtOSFQ4RDd6srqIIDxFtJ7wnNFd6FsMivqSQXMQGkhDHFuNU8UZtvPicFuBsRqlCJdZA4FCJEvAR_1iNn0i2sMUJwiIoIM/s400/DSC01708.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595066355147191042" style="text-align: right;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 88px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptQp2l44MmXqKW74K_rMcRkCLJeeKUbBaTFsN5af7Ov_lzyytmYbzB4sxACBUfEn_Xq-08mYMvznYga246rJYKuoSCI2w9ZfWrTsaDdNuulos6G2_vmsCekfhPE8XWsbbcWHvLBDaFaA/s1600/DSC01711.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptQp2l44MmXqKW74K_rMcRkCLJeeKUbBaTFsN5af7Ov_lzyytmYbzB4sxACBUfEn_Xq-08mYMvznYga246rJYKuoSCI2w9ZfWrTsaDdNuulos6G2_vmsCekfhPE8XWsbbcWHvLBDaFaA/s320/DSC01711.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595072625529077298" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLaLf9YEYunejDOATfhQiLBVFB1w_YDO7nMQISB_Uxt2yWGu6h-bj1JGh5Yf-ZhCkbbLf3IShhvyY7rtlIYtkXjzr3ob_-SryOR4XjyYQ2jsBUZXDiRlUXA4AhgptxcyBsjgks_h3q6M/s1600/DSC01719.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLaLf9YEYunejDOATfhQiLBVFB1w_YDO7nMQISB_Uxt2yWGu6h-bj1JGh5Yf-ZhCkbbLf3IShhvyY7rtlIYtkXjzr3ob_-SryOR4XjyYQ2jsBUZXDiRlUXA4AhgptxcyBsjgks_h3q6M/s320/DSC01719.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595072639185732066" style="cursor: pointer; 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width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglzq5FXsWVYbENCv_DyGtOtnmgjSl_d2PvfG4_Xo8DO8Jnrx5v9AubpH5-oC4xY3DGZQqPyfUnnVji7yGDfhNS6Ugdxqdk1SnehuX_QOE4IDB0Zuu8UoOw1gOHB7OjqpRpY4gBk195Yhs/s1600/DSC01724.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglzq5FXsWVYbENCv_DyGtOtnmgjSl_d2PvfG4_Xo8DO8Jnrx5v9AubpH5-oC4xY3DGZQqPyfUnnVji7yGDfhNS6Ugdxqdk1SnehuX_QOE4IDB0Zuu8UoOw1gOHB7OjqpRpY4gBk195Yhs/s320/DSC01724.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595078163360387122" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj64m0pOWhiUgz6O7TdWmaMMaA4sQmCyE571DpcD-e90URjOej3NHOGP_HzKKdW8A28el3ECWmwWGna6rdnrdXXG2rWIm-XBMMyctjQFQcaAEkaTU7yVYO4n-fAHelvVL8igbdmwRn5h54/s1600/DSC01722.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj64m0pOWhiUgz6O7TdWmaMMaA4sQmCyE571DpcD-e90URjOej3NHOGP_HzKKdW8A28el3ECWmwWGna6rdnrdXXG2rWIm-XBMMyctjQFQcaAEkaTU7yVYO4n-fAHelvVL8igbdmwRn5h54/s320/DSC01722.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595078160705907970" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg115phOo4NEsBdMJmpYkkqrSQyEGB-JG-e_duzfHU4EqWvUzWFyr66qS2Vkk3wLPNmU6OoIlJpVeJEVaOai7PcTdE0bJPmi58jmSpwI0fubLHn8D1FvSsSeihdkZJnNKQhojDBmNyZ5w0/s1600/DSC01721.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg115phOo4NEsBdMJmpYkkqrSQyEGB-JG-e_duzfHU4EqWvUzWFyr66qS2Vkk3wLPNmU6OoIlJpVeJEVaOai7PcTdE0bJPmi58jmSpwI0fubLHn8D1FvSsSeihdkZJnNKQhojDBmNyZ5w0/s320/DSC01721.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595075393188470610" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORaGsQ8wRyuylGec-SYiQrMWgPZFBoK4rMWj7XgLwIf6AAa3KrXiv5_O_jdBxWwC-Z_CKXR2bWSrqM4_6OTlyd3xp_BfIt8CivPIJuzLAkuHLpLxbJ5RzCmff8EgFcGu_AEcEuPS82d0/s1600/DSC01723.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORaGsQ8wRyuylGec-SYiQrMWgPZFBoK4rMWj7XgLwIf6AAa3KrXiv5_O_jdBxWwC-Z_CKXR2bWSrqM4_6OTlyd3xp_BfIt8CivPIJuzLAkuHLpLxbJ5RzCmff8EgFcGu_AEcEuPS82d0/s320/DSC01723.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595075398519400578" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZmZ7ztg3qGnWARIBGsEfhNpNKygJOIznicdEsTAWdKQ_ikllNW_iKhcJE2BLVhcd45xSLre_ZufUP1Wuz5bnd3hGg_BA23znFJh9wh1TX_gIidZ3j17GIXTt1uQDWce85olw5ZIxFiGQ/s1600/DSC01720.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZmZ7ztg3qGnWARIBGsEfhNpNKygJOIznicdEsTAWdKQ_ikllNW_iKhcJE2BLVhcd45xSLre_ZufUP1Wuz5bnd3hGg_BA23znFJh9wh1TX_gIidZ3j17GIXTt1uQDWce85olw5ZIxFiGQ/s320/DSC01720.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595075399242656866" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXan5szh-6gpi5KqRyMtJcR-gdoOgRoY6loc6GiqmOaYvpg7GnRlVlFs-Y5TTTjFKkJAleMEf8gBy_oK4YVeSaAFXJaKL8PDv9oRwmpOvTotGo2X-Wp5_d61zql9YvLN7uKq95CLWn5iw/s1600/DSC01725.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXan5szh-6gpi5KqRyMtJcR-gdoOgRoY6loc6GiqmOaYvpg7GnRlVlFs-Y5TTTjFKkJAleMEf8gBy_oK4YVeSaAFXJaKL8PDv9oRwmpOvTotGo2X-Wp5_d61zql9YvLN7uKq95CLWn5iw/s320/DSC01725.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595075405249272370" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">To wrap it all up in a perfect day, I got this SWEET vintage print from N - I LOVE it! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7fmwAsZz38TZ01JY7os3oL9JR6zKl5GoEPIMfnQ7LwZeLLeZaNII5aSeDfwu4Td7rJwn7omOkWg7qdM28n7swNJfFyoanDWzwQgpO4wBB7u9YvhnBjLQc8p2l8npFyiCXiAjpJCP_70A/s400/DSC01734.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595076950990418546" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">All in all, it was a super sweet birthday. I am not usually one to do things by myself, but I'm so glad I seized the day and did some solo exploring. I hope that yesterday is indicative of how this year goes - full of fun, surprises, and really cool stuff. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">What was your most recent birthday like? What was your <i>favorite</i> birthday? </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home</span></a></span></div><div><br /></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-32694819351889530752011-04-11T07:48:00.008-04:002011-04-11T19:56:07.832-04:00sports and socializing for the sun<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSgz_w1rWt4Lz_XyzodJ_b6qyEm2PbTg8ebJo-n9GWjqx0APBeqetK-RoZ__aeaUT95n4zAwFseHGgo9cNXzTeTFxl7KGh8vGjNNu9RUBAD10l5GaLbf6jaNP1qhCd2oI66x7sflr6cc/s1600/pagoda.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSgz_w1rWt4Lz_XyzodJ_b6qyEm2PbTg8ebJo-n9GWjqx0APBeqetK-RoZ__aeaUT95n4zAwFseHGgo9cNXzTeTFxl7KGh8vGjNNu9RUBAD10l5GaLbf6jaNP1qhCd2oI66x7sflr6cc/s400/pagoda.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594298385657710802" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Today is going to be gorgeous! It's already 60 degrees and it's only 7:45 a.m. so it's not surprise that we'll be seeing warm sunshine all day with temperatures over 80! </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">But</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> don't get used to it - most every day for the next two weeks is forecast to be dreary, rainy and otherwise unappealing. So here are some ideas to soak up the sun after work today without wasting a minute getting back in your car (assuming you live in or around Patterson Park, that is...for the rest of you, well, let this be incentive to move here!):</span><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Throw on your sneakers and go for a walk, jog or run! No matter what your fitness level you can burn some calories and enjoy the first signs of Spring in the Park. My favorite path, loops up to the Pagoda and then back down around the Boat Lake, but with almost three miles of paths I'm sure you can <a href="http://pattersonpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/runningmap.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">find one you like</span></a>.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"> </span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">Grab a racket and play some tennis! Who cares if you're embarrassingly bad - it's a fun and social way to get outside and move around, <i>and</i> a great sport to learn for lifelong fitness and fun</span></li></ul><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">Knock on a few doors and throw together an impromptu game of football or frisbee (or bocce or badminton if you have 'em) in the grass</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"> </span></li></ul><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">I'll make this one easy: bread + boat lake = duck feeding frenzy! This is just as fun as an adult as when you were a kid, <a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/2009/07/duck-tails.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">believe me</span></a></span></li></ul></div></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">Watch some BSSC games! I swear it's more fun that it sounds. Many an evening has been spent with a beverage, Puppy and N taking in the action on the field across the street. Adults playing social sports, like kickball, is <i>always</i> funny, trust me</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">Have drinks or dinner at <a href="http://www.bistrorx.net/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Bistro Rx</span></a>, or walk down to <a href="http://www.sauteofbaltimore.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Sautee</span></a>. Both have outdoor seating</span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Oh, so many other options, but I want to hear what <i>you</i> plan to do to enjoy your afternoon and evening! </span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">P.S. photo of the pagoda by my lovely talented friend Jen! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home</span></a></span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-75189145360090796112011-04-05T21:38:00.011-04:002011-04-07T10:27:29.378-04:00baltimore through a buyer's eyes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeMz2sxopvcN8Bjz7Gu6vFrvA_f3AVSAvUl1tZS1Nfuo_tPnOvMaLrPbEbzONsJQmxlPjRHtwvzzVDufML52zpZJaMEnumTYWaEicX6JvcVEPCBJ9mFVqnHmkXSjkgFVL3ZpP0f38_DNA/s1600/hampden.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The other day I started working with an absolutely lovely out-of-state buyer looking for a home in Baltimore (we'll call her Ms. D for easy). Since she didn't know the city beyond her hotel in the inner harbor, I offered to give her a tour of the city and the neighborhoods we'd been discussing - sort of a "lay of the land" excursion. I have to tell you all, driving through Baltimore, acting as a tour guide for someone who doesn't know the city, really gives you a new perspective and appreciation for the cool details and differences the neighborhoods offer. In two hours, I saw my city with new eyes.</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUVLgE24s-Y9JpyMCiIm-9p9r7hw1IKR32OEEIbzZI_HDm6NabsktggOqBLxCzLJS69uYMtLg4TG62Gjry40-AcxXFi4naHKM9KehcdUHB_Fv5FoVX6XnSZhwrTbbZeuSuTPuBIaDfSc/s1600/5246025199_0d27c2bfd9_m.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUVLgE24s-Y9JpyMCiIm-9p9r7hw1IKR32OEEIbzZI_HDm6NabsktggOqBLxCzLJS69uYMtLg4TG62Gjry40-AcxXFi4naHKM9KehcdUHB_Fv5FoVX6XnSZhwrTbbZeuSuTPuBIaDfSc/s320/5246025199_0d27c2bfd9_m.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592835211575214754" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 160px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZHYFI7FEzb-EWqvr1HzKjKwdtHhRfJGgUGQcXJtXDnr84V6jMW3YyqIAKoBY5kii2gUa55e4Pi0H2xsb5I8h04_Jm19Ozhtlue-F-n-o8FK0cHm7SRc6J-vpS8bZIQ5iY4_rd3kOkns/s1600/Roland-Park_1.gif" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Let me start by telling you, my office alone is noteworthy, since it sits on the Promenade, overlooking the Canton Marina through floor to ceiling glass. Everyone that comes in my office oohs and ash, which always gives me a sense of appreciation for living so near and working alongside the water - how many people can say that? From there, we looped through Canton admiring restaurants and bars, then up to Patterson Park (where Ms. D noted that Baltimore seems like, "the most dog-friendly city ever!") and through historic Butchers' Hill's grandeur (where she had already fallen in love </span><a href="http://www.visualtour.com/show.asp?t=2422814"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">with one house </span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">where we first met, but the layout didn't work for her aging mother). Rumbling down Wolf Streets cobblestones and across on Thames was like meandering through a picture postcard - Fells Point is just the most charming place I know, even on a gray day. The wide cobblestone street, myriad businesses and restaurants, each with its own vibe and style, the scent of bread wafting over form H&S Bakery... love it. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4B2lflg9eUZmTUCdA8JF9rwqTiwM9gquw-NeLm7l4E4q8gN0WYFutTGMrhcRC0x3wejfmhhKo2mI0ZPLlPjAaSskGjbARb7CW1giRWJWqlF2UJS1xQZt-bBLhcbKXPNAj5ny6Tu-wQo/s320/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592836808316856530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 234px; height: 104px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">From there, we shot up North, through Washington Hill (so close to the Medical Center!), and</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZHYFI7FEzb-EWqvr1HzKjKwdtHhRfJGgUGQcXJtXDnr84V6jMW3YyqIAKoBY5kii2gUa55e4Pi0H2xsb5I8h04_Jm19Ozhtlue-F-n-o8FK0cHm7SRc6J-vpS8bZIQ5iY4_rd3kOkns/s1600/Roland-Park_1.gif" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZHYFI7FEzb-EWqvr1HzKjKwdtHhRfJGgUGQcXJtXDnr84V6jMW3YyqIAKoBY5kii2gUa55e4Pi0H2xsb5I8h04_Jm19Ozhtlue-F-n-o8FK0cHm7SRc6J-vpS8bZIQ5iY4_rd3kOkns/s320/Roland-Park_1.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592834065210019986" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 245px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> over to 83, which is the most wonderful expressway I know - does that sound weird? - </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">and</span></i></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZHYFI7FEzb-EWqvr1HzKjKwdtHhRfJGgUGQcXJtXDnr84V6jMW3YyqIAKoBY5kii2gUa55e4Pi0H2xsb5I8h04_Jm19Ozhtlue-F-n-o8FK0cHm7SRc6J-vpS8bZIQ5iY4_rd3kOkns/s1600/Roland-Park_1.gif" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">shelters </span><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/2011/04/first-farmers-market.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">the most wonderful farmers market on Sundays</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">! Ten minutes later, we were still in the city but with a whole different feel, as we wound through Roland Park's hilly enclave. I love my neighborhood, I really do, but Roland Park is simply gorgeous, with an enormous variety of house styles, huge canopy trees, and winding roads that make you slow down and admire it all. Of course, my favorite house in all of Baltimore is in Roland Park....just look at it! That porch! The gables! How can you not want it?! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Homeland and Cedarcroft are equally charming but different and distinguishable - where </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3KvBgnkwiru8-EDFW85eJ54HeUk6LH8Ic_TzvlW-AxWcsKxuCLdwdQmHkQIkvZoPeIT1ySkiyw4jmLlFkSBHLpW3hWoPLtzTY2_9ldF88tkXYJOMzxmzqPNApO0nIR8GWi16Sgc3SDY/s320/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592839853830312850" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 183px; " /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Roland Park is all trees, Cedarcroft is generally more open, less winding, but houses vary from Dutch Colonia and Tudor to Cape Cods and Italiante. It's also worth noting that as of 2000 statistics from the 2000 Demographic profile show that about 75% of homes were occupied by families! Homeland's stone houses are to die for, and people truly know how to take care of their yards over there - I never see a blade of grass out of place. The Lakes of Homeland are just gorgeous, and offer the nicest little scenes in the spring, with daffodils and cherry blossoms abloom . And with </span><a href="http://www.belvederesquare.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Belvedere square </span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">so close by, the most delicious food ever is a walk or short drive away.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeMz2sxopvcN8Bjz7Gu6vFrvA_f3AVSAvUl1tZS1Nfuo_tPnOvMaLrPbEbzONsJQmxlPjRHtwvzzVDufML52zpZJaMEnumTYWaEicX6JvcVEPCBJ9mFVqnHmkXSjkgFVL3ZpP0f38_DNA/s320/hampden.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592844820067429906" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 275px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Our next neighborhood was Hampden, which stands in stark contrast to Homelands quiet grace and controlled order. Hampden is the ultimately mixing pot in Baltimore - young and old, hip and aging, modern and old-school... it's got it all. It is all that is funky and odd (I say that with nothing by love), with eclectic retail and dining down The Ave, the outrageous explosion of lights at Miracle on 34th Street in the winter, and the beehives and leopard-print of HonFest in the summer. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">We went to Federal Hill and saw brightly painted old clapboard rowhouses and talked about the history of the Hill itself. In Locust Point, we checked out </span><a href="http://www.silopoint.com/html/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Silo Point</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> (I hate condos, but I love that place) which has seamlessly blends history (it was the largest point of grain export in the U.S.!) with modern luxury in a way that makes you want to find the designer and applaud (have you been? Do you want to go? I will </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">so</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> take you. While we're talking about new construction i love - which is rare - I'd like to add </span><a href="http://www.overlookclippermill.com/Site_2/Home.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Overlook at Clipper Mill</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> to the list). </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">What struck me at this point was how wildly different, how uniquely apart, each of these neighborhoods was from each other. You've all heard the old adage about Baltimore being a city of neighborhoods, about the bock-by-block nature of our port town. But I really appreciated it from a newcomers perspective - the difference of three minutes in most cities may mean brick instead of stone houses, but in Baltimore, three minutes is a different world. In less than an hour and a half we'd been cultural tourists in an American city. Do you realize how lucky we are? That we can stroll through such history whenever we choose, but also have access to the best of modern medicine around the corner? I'm not saying Baltimore doesn't have its shortcomings, but if you take stock of what it has to offer, and what it holds in store, you'll surely agree that is worth fighting tooth and nail to help this city realize its potential, one unique neighborhood at a time. Let's commit to changing people's perceptions of our city, one visiting newcomer at a time. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">return home </span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div></div></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-65954927552201669972011-04-05T19:53:00.009-04:002011-04-05T21:09:04.721-04:00EcoFest and Baltimore Green Week!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9Y37ftVxY53GSaGWZu-doE7tH78ZxCiJYutr9XmvTatQ4yCUa5qwWxA1NANheLHnk-PnSwiMwvSjqE9N5WIWGIwdcGxdY244mJXJ9OIFOZcUWoxKgeLErcyGobw18jtTSEhO6sSsHdE/s1600/treebaltimore.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHsoqWL6g6CDEZtcH68OqPlfzX1H_VYFbur215Lz3U_7BF441yRp_pvSqjJuBKyWob-ZYyiOyLNwKAat5NHZnfZ4LzOGDCnIK3YIgS2cjmGI8XaUfpg2090iEfxFSgswJXEkA22rBJE0/s1600/logo.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 156px; height: 69px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHsoqWL6g6CDEZtcH68OqPlfzX1H_VYFbur215Lz3U_7BF441yRp_pvSqjJuBKyWob-ZYyiOyLNwKAat5NHZnfZ4LzOGDCnIK3YIgS2cjmGI8XaUfpg2090iEfxFSgswJXEkA22rBJE0/s320/logo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592261190183166194" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Now, I'm no new ager or modern day hippy, but I do love the earth. If you can't say the same, well,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9Y37ftVxY53GSaGWZu-doE7tH78ZxCiJYutr9XmvTatQ4yCUa5qwWxA1NANheLHnk-PnSwiMwvSjqE9N5WIWGIwdcGxdY244mJXJ9OIFOZcUWoxKgeLErcyGobw18jtTSEhO6sSsHdE/s200/treebaltimore.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592271064862526722" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 188px; height: 200px; " /></span> you probably can just stop reading here? But I mean, really? You don't love the earth? Huh. I digress. </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Anyways</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">, Saturday April 16th kicks of the 8th annual </span><a href="http://baltimoregreenworks.com/events/baltimore-green-week/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Baltimore Green Week</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">, sponsored by </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><a href="http://baltimoregreenworks.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Baltimore Green Works</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">and I for one and super excited! Unfortunately, the </span><a href="http://baltimoregreenworks.com/ecoball/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">EcoBall</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> already happened (next year, though, I am there!) but there's a great line up coming. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">SO, to kick it all off on the 26th is a day-long festival! Start the</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMYiPn1bli0gaTO5iR1g5TJbA4wNNgCYuI95jW08v9ioIE3Ei0tcKxoM1goCDkbsfqDhWuRmLYjBMTDBhXcv9qCshf7Uul-gLuKYMw3f8Sf_2YEhXZ-IYtRGeJOlMAv03H_5PyFseoUI/s320/Spring_clean_up_08_004.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592270208000884962" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> day with the <a href="http://www.greenhandsusa.com/central/page:10346"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Mayor's Annual Spring Clean-up</span></a>. Hit the streets and</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"> alleys, clean the park,and plant some flower or mulch your tree pits! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">Once you've worked up a sweat and done your dirty due diligence, unwind at <a href="http://baltimoregreenworks.com/events/ecofestival/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">EcoFest</span></a> in Druid Hill Park. From noon to 5 p.m. there will be live music (N will be playing at 4!), great locally - sourced food (Patterson Park's own, Damian Mosely, will be serving up his amazing <a href="http://www.blacksaucekitchen.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Blacksauce Kitche</span></a>n eats!), and awesome info from local </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Tyy5Jr4pJXchxAagjlL-_uYJLl8si_6OsDkWczBKq7UjLWvmYv8jfvAA6iJCHcxsC0Nm1u-x80VpFVH0eqIjAxvV2ThrBmFxNDlSvNN3JqmdYUqkUJUTv3NKICYtHOeTQcv8Am0MWuY/s200/trees.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592270609572268354" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 130px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">organizations and producers. Try out some yoga, bike around the reservoir or take a flower arranging class (just bring a vase!).</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The week continues with lots of activities around the city, so please be sure to check out the full schedule of events on the <a href="http://baltimoregreenworks.com/events/baltimore-green-week/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">BGWeek website</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">. There really is something for everyone! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">Anyone want to join me on Saturday? Let's carpool and go green!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home</span></a></span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-49475787864675403902011-04-03T11:51:00.003-04:002011-04-11T19:56:56.453-04:00first farmers' market!<span style="font-family:courier new;">Sunday was the first day of the JFX Farmers' Market - a whole month earlier than usual! Granted, the produce was pretty slim pickings but there was a sweet 10 person steel drum band (that incongruously was playing a medley from The Sound of Music), lots of freshly prepared food, Dairy and cheeses from </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://southmountaincreamery.com/">South Mountain Creamery</a><span style="font-family:courier new;"> and meats from </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://truckpatchfarms.com/">Truck Patch</a><span style="font-family:courier new;">! And, as is always the case, lots of running in to friends and neighbors along the way. I had to scurry through since I had to get to my open house, but I'll be back next week! Who wants to go with me? </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">By the way, I totally tried to take photos, I really did! But I left my memory card at home, so...that didn't pan out! Oh well, next week!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">love k</span><br /><br /><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home</span></a><br /><br /><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-58795905564832216032011-03-31T15:11:00.007-04:002011-04-01T10:17:42.384-04:00baltimore gets smart bikes!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-MGBky4dhETWwoWRDKrQOP2dj-mydsElVuFKTveH9tvj1ZXbUFvQ27vXWNdGw0urmR5EVU5p_IWouBTnEo2w61Nv63tfw0mOCMVFIl1HXFeZm02Vwv_mp7q3zNmZjHDb7QMbKYte79o/s1600/Potential-Station-Locations.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq30nNIxmAPl3W4uFFvScd_7KD7jM9v7aQoLLPZtaR-_BieWwwzueVsKYOqldexO8T-Cj0tZOvoxDfJ7IVq4moCfkqnFiLTM2zGdeLafb74UxXVGOjGUe5Rxz2srZO4R2sAnZgai8G_0A/s1600/bikes.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq30nNIxmAPl3W4uFFvScd_7KD7jM9v7aQoLLPZtaR-_BieWwwzueVsKYOqldexO8T-Cj0tZOvoxDfJ7IVq4moCfkqnFiLTM2zGdeLafb74UxXVGOjGUe5Rxz2srZO4R2sAnZgai8G_0A/s400/bikes.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590617656091848050" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Remember how </span><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/2011/03/please-spring-spring.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I was just telling</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> you about how excited I am to ride my bike around town? Well, apparently other people want to be cruising in the bi-wheeled fashion, too. And it's about to get a whole lot easier, since </span><a href="http://www.baltimorebrew.com/2011/03/28/sharing-bikes-to-curb-cars-%E2%80%93-baltimore-gets-ready-for-smart-bikes/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">"smart bikes" are coming to Baltimore</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">! As I mentioned, hauling my bike in and out of my house is pretty brutal, but the new bike-share program eliminates the need to </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">own</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> a bike of your own. Think of it as ZipBikes - bikes when you need 'em!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">They're all high-tech, with built in computer chips that enable you to pick up a bike from one "B-station" and drop off at another, charging you for the amount of time you used it (the first 30 minutes are free, though!). You probably won't see people taking these smart bikes out for long day trips since the price rises steeply after an hour of use, but what a perfect solution for hopping around town to run a quick errand, or if you're late for an appointment and want to skip traffic... and parking...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">And here's more good news! Patterson Park is one of the proposed locations for a B-station!</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-MGBky4dhETWwoWRDKrQOP2dj-mydsElVuFKTveH9tvj1ZXbUFvQ27vXWNdGw0urmR5EVU5p_IWouBTnEo2w61Nv63tfw0mOCMVFIl1HXFeZm02Vwv_mp7q3zNmZjHDb7QMbKYte79o/s400/Potential-Station-Locations.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590617926863257634" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 398px; height: 400px; " /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: 'courier new'; ">Preliminary plans call for B-stations in Mt. Vernon, Penn Station, Bolton Hill, North Ave, 25th Street, Homewood Campus/Charles Village, Harbor East, Fells and Canton. If all goes well, we can expect additional locations to open, including Locust Point and Fort McHenry. Since the Additionally, stations can be moved easily to adjust to ridership and use patterns.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">If you're thinking, "Yeah, I give those bikes 10 minutes till they're stolen!" fear not! They're designed with an imbedded GPS tracker, parts that can't be broken down and sold, and all kinds of locks. Tracking software has been used to track usage and reveal cool statistics, such as Denver collectively burning 6,333,332 calories the first year of operation.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Get biking, Baltimore! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home </span></a></span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-76523036762067665332011-03-30T09:33:00.014-04:002011-03-30T10:34:08.782-04:00from IKEA to "i love it"<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">The thing about rowhouses is that each room is in close enough quarters to the next that furniture and decor has to flow. Standing in my entryway, you see every inch of my living room, dining room <i>and</i> kitchen, so I've worked hard to try to create some sense of continuity. When I first moved in five years ago, I did what most people in their early 20's moving in to their first house would do... went hog-wild at IKEA! Heck, what else could I afford? And it did the job, but little by little I've replaced things with nicer, more unique pieces that I like to think suggest a sense of personal style.</span><br /><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">First there was the couch and love-seat from <a href="http://www.nouveaubaltimore.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Nouveau</span></a> when they moved to a new location - yay 80% off!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHhwdGHDOMPWiq-e1G3GORT0a9oVK0VBV77cHByTlY0PVfQy1AXMApjaTnLnRkhC1GK025bTwCB_uabhueaqQMT-_br-Gyiqe1FLTZKNSQgPU6ywy1uA0So-1M3BpnYArciuBynvHib_E/s1600/DSC01638.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHhwdGHDOMPWiq-e1G3GORT0a9oVK0VBV77cHByTlY0PVfQy1AXMApjaTnLnRkhC1GK025bTwCB_uabhueaqQMT-_br-Gyiqe1FLTZKNSQgPU6ywy1uA0So-1M3BpnYArciuBynvHib_E/s320/DSC01638.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589872154691206162" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Puppy, my love-seat & two old whiskey crates stacked as a sidetable</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHhwdGHDOMPWiq-e1G3GORT0a9oVK0VBV77cHByTlY0PVfQy1AXMApjaTnLnRkhC1GK025bTwCB_uabhueaqQMT-_br-Gyiqe1FLTZKNSQgPU6ywy1uA0So-1M3BpnYArciuBynvHib_E/s1600/DSC01638.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmlvPPYQQuTXZBMBAEUuSrCfLwdJUOFyMLsUEt6TeDXKubOEIVadJ_oFDV-mwQHfYCwEl7rvrbwrLW-9Bmja3XLyPrRf2P02FWck3ciNvHpl9G5YIcxBjjYwRVt54l0T-4BG64vZtQcA/s1600/DSC01640.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmlvPPYQQuTXZBMBAEUuSrCfLwdJUOFyMLsUEt6TeDXKubOEIVadJ_oFDV-mwQHfYCwEl7rvrbwrLW-9Bmja3XLyPrRf2P02FWck3ciNvHpl9G5YIcxBjjYwRVt54l0T-4BG64vZtQcA/s320/DSC01640.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589872786906865122" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Bindi the cat and my sweet sectional sofa - best napping sofa ever!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Then I coveted, and finally bought after a year (when it finally went on sale), my reclaimed factory cart coffee table. I bemoan the fact that they became hip a year later and now are in Pottery Barn, etc. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">But then I needed a new area rug...so I splurged at Arhaus and it tied it all together. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFxq4VhAlGXrwcNxmrUj3R98VcihwAlObYnhOIQS811rQlT72rUlVZf4bcHZb5qe8YPNd8F_IrI9tsLyrApgS3VglpVcfk1UACIkb8JbXDb-57YuG1QtVSg3peCuWHssXVe2aNZz5j_c/s320/DSC01639.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589873721005323826" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">But all these lovely upgrades made my IKEA dining table look...silly. I wanted some lovely, reclaimed wood rectangular table, but every one I found was insanely expensive <i>and</i> way too wide for my rowhouse dining room. I started joking that N would just have to make me one...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">AND HE DID! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi0kJdY2Bs-V6IT5a4_6ebYEO-E9olA79pI8dn4u2e5ko7TjUgLgz7ELgh1sthYWKdxgDYFFWmh6XQyood1d9cnwMb2vJUNrkXYfjFAi_tB0PgoAKKGwjUtYIjPtLCHuXzWJxWc78qez0/s1600/DSC01642.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi0kJdY2Bs-V6IT5a4_6ebYEO-E9olA79pI8dn4u2e5ko7TjUgLgz7ELgh1sthYWKdxgDYFFWmh6XQyood1d9cnwMb2vJUNrkXYfjFAi_tB0PgoAKKGwjUtYIjPtLCHuXzWJxWc78qez0/s200/DSC01642.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589879514470360034" style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa0MjS0xL1hWkTrlolFYvvdptvIjC2dWIlJo-22RpUj4KSSt6ZAsteok5X-qm4HmjZeaIqZsqZ85OLMCYgyKvw5m33U74xuPxI8nSywwP3wZH_kprOPCNcbDcCSz3E6UHzyGaORIPQHs/s1600/DSC01641.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa0MjS0xL1hWkTrlolFYvvdptvIjC2dWIlJo-22RpUj4KSSt6ZAsteok5X-qm4HmjZeaIqZsqZ85OLMCYgyKvw5m33U74xuPxI8nSywwP3wZH_kprOPCNcbDcCSz3E6UHzyGaORIPQHs/s200/DSC01641.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589879511329110386" style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MnTp-I2wlhkCj58DNEvfkjdHDB3AVdOLm8eyqBM_WrUvoWmKczWSUWCTnfuSNO-RJGk-H0j5rTG0xgmLcdpwZXs_fOyPD4sxijMidwn8P0OHH4NcR8oMW80_BVfQdJDjnsU03gqP108/s1600/DSC01643.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MnTp-I2wlhkCj58DNEvfkjdHDB3AVdOLm8eyqBM_WrUvoWmKczWSUWCTnfuSNO-RJGk-H0j5rTG0xgmLcdpwZXs_fOyPD4sxijMidwn8P0OHH4NcR8oMW80_BVfQdJDjnsU03gqP108/s200/DSC01643.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589879517281193234" style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">I love it. I more than love it. It's made from reclaimed floor joists from 1900, so the boards are thick and beautiful. It's lightly varnished, so safe from heat, etc and a total work of art. I don't even really understand how he made it, and I imagine getting it in to my house, disassembling my old table, and getting the new one in place was quite a feat. But it was definitely the best Christmas present </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><i>ever</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><i>Now</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"> all I need is a rug for the dining room... </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return hom</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">e</span> </span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-67504739948042531162011-03-30T09:01:00.005-04:002011-03-30T09:33:03.487-04:00bathroom bonanza<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">So now that you're caught up on the <i>first</i> floor bathroom, I can move on to telling you about the <i>second</i> floor bathroom. Whereas the former was all aesthetics, the latter announced its issues by cascading water down my dining room chandelier and on to my new hand-made table a month ago. I re-grouted. I re-caulked. I re-waterproofed that sucker to the point that I'm reasonably sure I've caused a shortage of sealants in East Baltimore. But to no avail.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">With a jetted tub circa 1990, completely irregular dimensions, and myriad problems, this shower situation called for expertise beyond my abilities. So, after one quote for $18,000(haaahahaha! hilarious!), I got a referral for the most wonderful person on earth named Faramarz who is both a plumber AND a tiler! Did I mention how insanely wonderful he is?! And reasonable? And lovely? I digress. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">At first the plan was to just rip out the tub (no small feat) and surrounding tile, find the problem, fix the plumbing and create a nice, modern, step in shower with a built in bench. But then trying to find tile that went with the old pink and gray cheap floor tile (again, circa 1990) and uninspired two-bit vanity was...challenging. And seemed really dumb. So, out it all came! The whole thing! For about a day it sounded like large circus animals were battling to the death upstairs. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Now it looks like this:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1iRbaOWUmVBZkf0yt4iucBJfpll6vNaP-Yc4hKdEpO7_9BbQxcGV7bA52p6CCtj3tPLhWWVPFuXXySP5_FZEHMBuwmcarve9-exjq-sUyzZONJLV_8yXiONI6gtnTEAkIaAPGqI4Ge_E/s1600/DSC01632.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1iRbaOWUmVBZkf0yt4iucBJfpll6vNaP-Yc4hKdEpO7_9BbQxcGV7bA52p6CCtj3tPLhWWVPFuXXySP5_FZEHMBuwmcarve9-exjq-sUyzZONJLV_8yXiONI6gtnTEAkIaAPGqI4Ge_E/s320/DSC01632.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589864275804197202" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkSARcExhxgi9oy_QQFSBvqkqQWIdsIgzusWiqr6WnM6algyRqH4-b22dzonA8-byZdScN7OnAn_ctpsbTQiBuWVWmr3NZmBe3DX72Mn5aNBx315GSiThOMpn0s-lNhPiNrNik98MMG8/s1600/DSC01629.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkSARcExhxgi9oy_QQFSBvqkqQWIdsIgzusWiqr6WnM6algyRqH4-b22dzonA8-byZdScN7OnAn_ctpsbTQiBuWVWmr3NZmBe3DX72Mn5aNBx315GSiThOMpn0s-lNhPiNrNik98MMG8/s320/DSC01629.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589864281190220402" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrejGBZPblPHT9cV9WbL74z4cZjczDd0osUprNPeElC3TEXeneHwuyJ005_mnXVWSvAkTsfVYUoCocJWdntt-ShmyC0jOvqItn4t3WI1GpLrinaOLOA7o7o6rXF3GSD2sOz5E2dYoAb4o/s1600/DSC01631.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrejGBZPblPHT9cV9WbL74z4cZjczDd0osUprNPeElC3TEXeneHwuyJ005_mnXVWSvAkTsfVYUoCocJWdntt-ShmyC0jOvqItn4t3WI1GpLrinaOLOA7o7o6rXF3GSD2sOz5E2dYoAb4o/s320/DSC01631.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589864284547148066" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Turns out the plumbing wasn't doing so well, so it was all replaced and moved to one wall (it had been coming out of two places. Weird). Also, the bathtub had been leaking in three places! Good riddance! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">My tile is all picked out (challenging since stores don't keep tile in stock like they used to due to the recession, slower turn over etc.), as well as a new vanity. I'm beyond excited to show you the progress and completion!<br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">return home</span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script></div></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-79200410585628936692011-03-29T14:37:00.011-04:002011-03-29T17:57:50.887-04:00(last) winter home project wrap-up: laundry/powder room makeover<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Last year, as you may <a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/2010/01/winter-home-project-laundrypowder-room.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">recall</span></a>, I overhauled my first-floor laundry/powder room. "Wait!" You're probably saying, "What the heck happened with that?" What happened remained a mystery to you all since I forgot to, say, give you the "after" half of the "before/after" concept. Well, I love it! Before it was horrible and gross and overly utilitarian, and now...</span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2XW8J4y7TBQy8LNXL_YF6qOgDCqk2FFy4ODxZC3MK7I6GnuZPooNfiM4cO4u9oLY3nS-9iqq2OHEw4yP0GODeG-O-20wDUgxcroB9sa6U0VqkqmrsJ2yE2HjqKG0wCh1op5p4L7Mlx8o/s400/DSC01636.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589623418901456354" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The stackable front-loading washer and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">dryer (Sears, on sale, half price) freed up tons of space. I had to have a plumber come move the plumbing around, and then a carpenter built the dividing wall. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGl-ZJciMci_0Sgbr0hc_NqCZYopBfV-u8Y6YCyf2CA0yWYamrKhrIkYdHlpy15q-ZkQDMmGSJKPou-Nx_sBPy0i_noyxQo7JpPwIxlyhBURkXjbrS149FA3jkBw6CWmT8LNVef_w0Vc/s1600/DSC01637.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGl-ZJciMci_0Sgbr0hc_NqCZYopBfV-u8Y6YCyf2CA0yWYamrKhrIkYdHlpy15q-ZkQDMmGSJKPou-Nx_sBPy0i_noyxQo7JpPwIxlyhBURkXjbrS149FA3jkBw6CWmT8LNVef_w0Vc/s400/DSC01637.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589623428677068274" style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">I lucked out with the vanity (good LORD, vanities are pricey!) by acquiring this lovely brand-new one for free from my sister (didn't work out at their house, couldn't return)- score one for me! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">The mirror is from Target - I decided an oval framed mirror classed it up. Repainted the room the same lovely shade (Restoration Hardware) as before with bright white trim. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">The little prints are actually a postcard collection of vintage Nancy Drew covers (my favorites growing up) that I framed using IKEA frames! Final touch with a new soap pump that matched the sink and a cute diffuser from Target to keep things fresh.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggBBk3DlHWPxATHHoTI_XLq7Qwf1oXJEsnv0cvGtFL2-jDxBG2UKRYzHdyJhM6Q0zsaTlhgInRuh3ZwV7RQWVCzXPu6kx9W9oP9rhhCOw2CmTRYc-xVz3RHaEBG5M6WWfRvFxUgklb-Ds/s1600/DSC01635.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggBBk3DlHWPxATHHoTI_XLq7Qwf1oXJEsnv0cvGtFL2-jDxBG2UKRYzHdyJhM6Q0zsaTlhgInRuh3ZwV7RQWVCzXPu6kx9W9oP9rhhCOw2CmTRYc-xVz3RHaEBG5M6WWfRvFxUgklb-Ds/s400/DSC01635.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589623417401860194" style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I have enough room between the washer/dryer and the dividing wall to stash a drying rack, broom, reusable grocery bags and my outdoor pillows for my patio. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">So that was wonderful and rewarding and I love it. Finally, I gave you the closure you've been waiting for since last January! I am now just starting a TOTAL overhaul in my 2nd floor bathroom... stay posted!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">love k</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><a href="http://pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com/">return home</a></span></span></div></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-47679564314830064712011-03-29T11:09:00.007-04:002011-03-29T12:12:03.455-04:00please spring, Spring!<script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; ">Spring is being really slow on the uptake this year, what with two threats of snow since the official first day last week. Super lame, especially since I shiver dramatically at any temperatures below, ooh, 64 degrees. But luckily I'm the stoic type, and can cling to all the great things that are around the corner. Along with raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, here are a few of my favorite things (about Springs!):</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">1. </span>The Farmers Market - </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Starting a whole month early this year, the JFX Farmer'</span><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 275px; height: 183px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTjcYzc7W1ngmkaMI6B_YdjpGVXvzqNp9hDJJmLK3aHrboFBYmByB9_DuxNvvasDj6A7pNvMnU1CiWkkaxy_IIINC27N64O76v7UoKq_v0lfzxrDeVIzchfEiKN7Tg1AlthnGC1hhrTw/s320/farmers.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589524267544265474" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">s Market kicks off this Sunday, April 3rd! It's probably still a tad early for much produce, but my mouth waters at the thought of the </span><a href="http://southmountaincreamery.com/home.php"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">dairy</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> and </span><a href="http://the.breaderyonline.com/WhereUFindUS.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">bakery</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> and </span><a href="http://www.wheelygoodsmoothies.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">smoothies</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> and </span><a href="http://www.zekescoffee.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">coffee</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">,and....oh, my, I can't wait! After recently reading a wonderfully written letter to the public by a small business owner about how every little effort to support local entrepreneurs makes a difference, I am filled with desire to do just that! Who wants to join me<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;">?</span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">2. </span>The Color Green - </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">No, I don't mean money (though Spring is a lovely time for real estate....), I mean leaves! And grass! And vines and creepers! Even WEEDS make me happy after a whole winter of various shades of brown. I really have my work cut out for me this year with my garden and planters, which are currently in major disarray. But just thinking about how lovely my (itsy bitsy teeny weeny) back patio is when in full bloom makes me relish all the digging and planting I have in my future.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">3. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Patterson Park - </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Ooooh the park in the spring is just the best thing on earth! I consider myself outrageously lucky to be able to look out my window every morning and watch color creep back into the park's flora. Even before the trees and grass become lush and green, the park begins to fill with people. Old and young, rich and poor, it doesn't matter. Everyone can enjoy a lovely public park, and the first warm days of Spring are like a siren song. Complain all you like about how the warmer months make it harder to park because of the flocks of park-goers - I'll take a busy, well-used park over easy parking any day.</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span></span><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">4. </span>My Beach Cruiser </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">- </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Most</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> of the year I consider my 3 zillion pound beach cruiser to be one of the worst investments I've ever made. Most, but not </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">all</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">. In the Spring that bike is the best thing on earth.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; ">The basket is perfect for groceries, farmers market purchases, or...my dog.</span></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 122px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcNQj5yicCpfyqnoko27jCI5W89YUteCeNNFvyGlUkQKqIwTP-orcX7W_fKvfCo-ouxNmdO1nGepbJWt0S52MGP2TiO2BGZILSNLTQzOUXGi-EHDRzoCtGx6L855flZ4L4DKMU2xvWcY/s200/electra.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589530087396009218" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "> And the bell! The bell calls out for friendship, I swear. Even though getting it in and out of the house is a feat of true physical</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; ">strength and determination, I have hopes of forming a posse of fel</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; ">low bikers to cruise the streets. [Public Service Announcement: Dear auto drivers, please please please understand how terrifying it is when you swish by me with a 7 inch clearance from my leather-bound handlebars. My heart is literally somewhere in my throat, choking me with terror.]</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">5. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">My Birthday! - </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">As an Aries (April 12th, baby!) I live with hope eternal that I can have an outdoor birthday party. Pretty much every year I do, but I can't claim that it is exactly...pleasant. But I hold out! Even if it's slightly damp and reasonably chilly, I </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">swear</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> there's promise in the air of warmer weather soon to come. I like to think of raindrops as little drops of hope and life for all the flowers soon to come.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">6. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">EcoFest - </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Totally cheating that I'm putting this on here since I've never actually been before, but </span><a href="http://baltimoregreenworks.com/events/ecofestival/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I am going this year</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">! And will be loads of fun! And N is playing music and a </span><a href="http://blacksaucekitchen.com/Blacksauce_Kitchen.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">friend of mine</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> is making/selling food! Come with me!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">So you see, even though the weather is still bonafide horrible, there are just so many great things around the corner! Oh, and can I add one more? </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">7. I'm back to blogging.</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; ">love k.</span></div>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-26376471364124340122010-07-29T10:33:00.014-04:002010-07-29T11:31:04.251-04:00pizza and pints by the park<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjmDxqEOdSJBcDG1neGirBDgLerBUTO8i3Nifjy7OOdmXAcUM2clRl-F6cO9q1VBFQ1wi5ssvO87MZ0GFweo86tgCqifHcILhG1Djo622iPogS-F70r_7zHmbthb2j8ri7m1w2TbXB6o/s1600/DSC00442.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjmDxqEOdSJBcDG1neGirBDgLerBUTO8i3Nifjy7OOdmXAcUM2clRl-F6cO9q1VBFQ1wi5ssvO87MZ0GFweo86tgCqifHcILhG1Djo622iPogS-F70r_7zHmbthb2j8ri7m1w2TbXB6o/s400/DSC00442.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499345288811036994" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:courier new;">So I know I said I was going to the concert last night, but I totally didn't. Instead I went to the soft opening of </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://www.johnnyrads.com/JohnnyRads/JohnnyRads.html">Johnny Rad's </a><span style="font-family:courier new;">with </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://www.baltimoremagazine.net/onthetown/">Jess</a><span style="font-family:courier new;">. This cute corner bar/restaurant is about a block West of the park, located in the same spot that the dive-ish bar </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://www.ajbillig.com/index.php?option=com_hotproperty&task=view&id=13712&Itemid=26">Kelly's used to be</a><span style="font-family:courier new;">. Whoah, what a change! Tiny windows have been replaced with large cafe-style ones that can be opened out with nice weather. A fresh coat of paint inside and out, along with a new bar and skateboard-inspired decor are all a welcome change, too.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:courier new;">Billing itself as a "Pizzeria Tavern," Johnny Rad's boasts a menu way beyond just pizza; with fun bar nibbles such as hush puppies, corn dogs, mac 'n cheese, and edamame on the menu, you'll surely find something perfect to go with your beverage.</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;">Not to say that the pizza isn't lovely and beautiful, with fresh mozzarella and fresh veggie (and vegan!) options galore:</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_9AbAuOzB06q0KHa24cQ7Pu-7In__0SIu837zl_nnt0uKhT0Zp8MV2MjJyr7v6iXp3pcYcf2vCwYNsCMnYRy1ecM7Az5MvWVOuF72gHgo7oZ68iDTZnYqkBsXfb6RXNS1GaFwiN5Tyw/s1600/DSC00438.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 230px; height: 173px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_9AbAuOzB06q0KHa24cQ7Pu-7In__0SIu837zl_nnt0uKhT0Zp8MV2MjJyr7v6iXp3pcYcf2vCwYNsCMnYRy1ecM7Az5MvWVOuF72gHgo7oZ68iDTZnYqkBsXfb6RXNS1GaFwiN5Tyw/s320/DSC00438.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499346786375539570" border="0" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kAnd9yZzr3BJrow4F0femxUHdopZv0biAk40DAbGIU1ggkMePIZxRWh732cjN5OEgytCO5mzZQeNr5k069c87jlpWaCNZ8X99uoFSxCgIU-38baX0dYxXXM7mtyFoVOeS0K9j9Sr65w/s1600/DSC00436.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 230px; height: 172px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kAnd9yZzr3BJrow4F0femxUHdopZv0biAk40DAbGIU1ggkMePIZxRWh732cjN5OEgytCO5mzZQeNr5k069c87jlpWaCNZ8X99uoFSxCgIU-38baX0dYxXXM7mtyFoVOeS0K9j9Sr65w/s320/DSC00436.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499346775019604818" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">Attempting to play it healthy (hey, I'm going ot the beach in a couple</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4T3deLAv2Nu6o4ywZFEkMWfZ8Hc4ufRoizs4bsrmlG5uC-SNYs66Z8SsP-jl9U1Xxe36srIeRdKaCO21KQloQgPDTyrRXTDpIpfZm60YEmHHKVCL19mLx6nqrEGoypsd1tdqTzf_kcuY/s1600/DSC00437.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4T3deLAv2Nu6o4ywZFEkMWfZ8Hc4ufRoizs4bsrmlG5uC-SNYs66Z8SsP-jl9U1Xxe36srIeRdKaCO21KQloQgPDTyrRXTDpIpfZm60YEmHHKVCL19mLx6nqrEGoypsd1tdqTzf_kcuY/s320/DSC00437.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499348005395304162" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:courier new;"> of weeks...girl's gotta try), I chose the "Silly Pink Bunny" salad </span><span style="font-family:courier new;">which was phenomenal. The dressing was noteworthy in its deliciousness - the sharp horeseradish kick was a perfect compliment to my seared tuna - and would go with not only any salad, but also would work as a yummy, different dipper for their house-cut fries if you ask me... (I'll try that out post-beach)</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />While last night was their soft opening (we actually had their first menu ever printed!), the whole place was hopping by 7:30, with nary a free seat in the house! I loved that crowd was a true mix of old-school locals, visiting hipsters, and everyone in between. I'm pretty sure anyone could go in there and feel welcome.<br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWO0DjHtBY_jLrF6_MSvX6BILmfnVNX0uisVnMcbUgyysclj8selLznHGtx9nnNV9UKsRzcckYax9jtBLfJnXHjBhVzR5eabW67ruw-WfPn2c7Cb4eWPOEVvQd60_YmzIp9oyzk2jb71I/s1600/DSC00441.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 171px; height: 129px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWO0DjHtBY_jLrF6_MSvX6BILmfnVNX0uisVnMcbUgyysclj8selLznHGtx9nnNV9UKsRzcckYax9jtBLfJnXHjBhVzR5eabW67ruw-WfPn2c7Cb4eWPOEVvQd60_YmzIp9oyzk2jb71I/s200/DSC00441.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499350316877063922" border="0" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyD-yrqfUrnLLhHw3_zSPOJIYU8PupRSqpEKlDZo0wkh_4ZS7WJrBBkFCUc_nBEIAcSZ5n9Mf2INcfw618xIwkxCH7SyY7Gfg2fWpIqDAfhXa8KJj7U3hkVBYHbuOiTVx1FAS6lFF220/s1600/DSC00434.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 173px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyD-yrqfUrnLLhHw3_zSPOJIYU8PupRSqpEKlDZo0wkh_4ZS7WJrBBkFCUc_nBEIAcSZ5n9Mf2INcfw618xIwkxCH7SyY7Gfg2fWpIqDAfhXa8KJj7U3hkVBYHbuOiTVx1FAS6lFF220/s200/DSC00434.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499350281854499234" border="0" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ItBBFl43pV9MAt-xg-fxBYJccKSoMHJZzA9yc8bltdeUxAcLmSOt42TwK9XgKrQTcGKfN9-oAysK-yxKUUk0KwcRC8SwpZiGLHys26lYv1i_dk7rjC9w6X1wS-w-de6aFrRlgyfqRk4/s1600/DSC00431.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 131px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ItBBFl43pV9MAt-xg-fxBYJccKSoMHJZzA9yc8bltdeUxAcLmSOt42TwK9XgKrQTcGKfN9-oAysK-yxKUUk0KwcRC8SwpZiGLHys26lYv1i_dk7rjC9w6X1wS-w-de6aFrRlgyfqRk4/s200/DSC00431.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499350265754956306" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">On a nice evening, it would be a lovely walk across the park for a pint and a pizza pie, OR a fun dinner before heading across the street to the <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.pattersonbowl.com/">Patterson Bowling Lanes</a>, so go check it out!</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;">Their grand opening is August 13th, but they seem to have hit the ground running already.<br /><br />love k<br /><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.blogger.com/www.pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"><br />return home</a><br /></span> <script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-70312556850498673932010-07-26T11:07:00.005-04:002010-07-26T15:47:54.792-04:00commendations and concerts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8G6xCOkViyFo4-9VlgeMoTjGFoBV1il5MpwSKqG_x2SNE9_BPXnemvZ8b0Qth3lS9Ua_o6Ss511qxZfcGkWw9JMjj-v5kSfFuItRFn9NDCHGyqIsd9tYY_Oqxqul5Z4HquUxeCBR2WI/s1600/DSC00724.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8G6xCOkViyFo4-9VlgeMoTjGFoBV1il5MpwSKqG_x2SNE9_BPXnemvZ8b0Qth3lS9Ua_o6Ss511qxZfcGkWw9JMjj-v5kSfFuItRFn9NDCHGyqIsd9tYY_Oqxqul5Z4HquUxeCBR2WI/s400/DSC00724.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498302948212374882" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">Congratulations, Patterson Park, you were voted the #1 Best Park in Baltimore by </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://www.baltimoremagazine.net/bestofpoll/">Baltimore Magazine! </a><span style="font-family:courier new;">Yup, we beat out Federal Hill Park and Oriole Park at Camden Yards - awesome!<br /><br />But how could anyone think we wouldn't win? Can any other Baltimore park brag that it has tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, playing fields, a boat lake stocked with fish, two playgrounds, a recreation center, a beautiful fountain, an ice skating rink, a pool, running paths, a community garden, and a pagoda?<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:courier new;">[crickets]</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">I didn't think so.<br /><br />The heat has (sort of) let up, so celebrate our victory but taking advantage of what we have! Here's an idea: Head to the <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://pattersonpark.com/">Concert in the Park</a> (whoah! check out the Friends of Patterson Park's new site! Looking good, Friends!), rescheduled for this Wednesday evening, at 6:30 on Pagoda Hill. Pack a picnic and wallow in our win.<br /><br /><br />love k<br /><br /><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="www.pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com">return home</a></span> <script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-42002857352645598732010-07-26T10:13:00.004-04:002010-07-26T10:20:44.817-04:00in other news...<span style="font-family:courier new;">...have you tried the bloody marys at Koopers?!? I'm talking a perfect cocktail with a pretty lil' accent of old bay. Friends, next time you find yourself wanting a weekend a.m. pick-me-up, head straight there. Pronto.</span><br /><a style="font-family: courier new;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraLH_A2Dd_1Ixw9resKbUnC_m6UratrrOGgPjbOTqPecz8ENnDzq-dhJfEQg2gQ3QzWRF3wi29YDsxy12ANZUjUnvMzlkz7nFAAT7YzOMbX0tkzPpylFGHvuzdBygQEmMhAtvCI0znpM/s1600/DSC00338.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraLH_A2Dd_1Ixw9resKbUnC_m6UratrrOGgPjbOTqPecz8ENnDzq-dhJfEQg2gQ3QzWRF3wi29YDsxy12ANZUjUnvMzlkz7nFAAT7YzOMbX0tkzPpylFGHvuzdBygQEmMhAtvCI0znpM/s400/DSC00338.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498218906746422802" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:courier new;">That will be all for now.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">love k</span><br /><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://www.blogger.com/pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"><br />return home</a><br /><a style="font-family: courier new;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Bh2UNgPgUjBFgwojXXpIdGYfWuJdmMAHI_QRAWHdOCUwQ2szceXV0q-NoGWKvdwOf1eootBI6ONbY80r-TTCWqsipQW916h-gjiv2E7I3_9D07l72jZwoln2ng1SODuhCitS_nHMWuQ/s1600/DSC00338.JPG"><br /></a><br /><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-55769156854989813632010-07-25T22:14:00.004-04:002010-07-25T23:04:16.276-04:00dear bge...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCG8lqsUzN_YYZlEFr4o9FJvti4mZGKqMJMSO0aLdyV_5NSpBTQzfPBzYZVklRxX1mVBvJRrVCXCFwpIzb7_0Vs9gal7xH_ADcNDGB_O2dY_P7zo7vnFXJZLguhDygTOBX2hQi5DcNc8/s1600/DSC00341.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCG8lqsUzN_YYZlEFr4o9FJvti4mZGKqMJMSO0aLdyV_5NSpBTQzfPBzYZVklRxX1mVBvJRrVCXCFwpIzb7_0Vs9gal7xH_ADcNDGB_O2dY_P7zo7vnFXJZLguhDygTOBX2hQi5DcNc8/s320/DSC00341.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498044696130199730" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">Some of us (i.e. a solid posse of six blocks) in Patterson Park have been experiencing boughts of nightmarish heat and perpetual darkness. Ok, that is a </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: courier new;">slight</span><span style="font-family:courier new;"> exaggeration, but only slight. You see, in the past three weeks, I've lost power twelve times. Yup, a dozen. The power outages range from a couple of hours to over half a day. The darkness I can deal with - heck, a house full of candles is downright pretty, and tv is over-rated anyways. But the heat, ooooh the heat heat heat heat! Twelve hours of no power = a house temperature riiiight around that of the outdoors. Turns out my insulation isn't all that I thought it was.</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />So everyone is freaking out. The spoiled food. The sleepless nights (or nights spent elsewhere because truly, sleeping in a 95-degree room is actually impossible). The constant calls to BGE. Enervating auto-robot phone calls to tell us that BGE understands that we've experiencing power issues. The conviction that at any second its going to go out AGAIN. The preemptive horror of facing July's energy bill.</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />So imagine our surprise, our glee, when this showed up:</span> <a style="font-family: courier new;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrzOqse1WL1VlXrOWKeAPuWgU_P_rRrCqIFgd_uhhU04eZwVN2SHnOiUBqCsJa0aIsmqMe26QiD82gPH9xU9XO1RNCotF4P_0uISlSFwLgOfitN4uHWf1sntSeH1ABcilOIbeC_LN73Lg/s1600/DSC00342.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 612px; height: 110px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrzOqse1WL1VlXrOWKeAPuWgU_P_rRrCqIFgd_uhhU04eZwVN2SHnOiUBqCsJa0aIsmqMe26QiD82gPH9xU9XO1RNCotF4P_0uISlSFwLgOfitN4uHWf1sntSeH1ABcilOIbeC_LN73Lg/s400/DSC00342.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498041472930945362" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:courier new;">A "mobile command center" has officially rolled into town, folks - four pick up trucks, two trailors, heck they even have porta-potties. BGE noticed that we're on the verge of rioting. So I met with Mike and Ervin, the two lovely on-site disaster team (I'm sure they have more official titles than that, but I am </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:courier new;" >hoping</span><span style="font-family:courier new;"> they are super-hero-esque in their abilities), and we talked about...</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />· Anyone with concerns is free to stop by and talk to a BGE representative at the mobile command center (Ellwood and Pratt).<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:courier new;">· They have made many attempts to locate the problem, but because it is internal to the wiring it is difficult to find. In order to find and fix it they will need additional outages to help narrow the search area. This means that the outages will not be solved overnight and that we should probably expect a few more (<---- sucks)</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />· We should continue to call BGE when the power goes out. Don’t assume that they know because they are on site. In addition, even though they are on site don’t expect that the power will return immediately. It takes time to turn back on and this is when they learn the most about the issue, so time will be spent examining the problem.</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"> (<---boo)<br /><br />· While BGE will not be delivering dry ice, they will reimburse you for the cost if you save your receipt</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />· The need for better communication with the community, and the elimination of horrible robot phone calls </span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />· Some type of credit on affected residents' bills to compensate for the increased energy usage required to cool houses that have been without power. (<---believe when I see it, but they did listen attentively when I urged them to do this...forcefully..)</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />Ok! So my fingers are crossed - so far they've kept in really good communication with me and will keep me (and you!) informed about progress and plans. In the meantime, stay cool, Patterson Park!</span> <span style="font-family:courier new;"><br /><br />love k<br /><br /></span> <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://www.blogger.com/www.pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com">return home</a> <script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1619345423751671860.post-80814694518521853222010-07-23T17:10:00.008-04:002010-07-23T17:40:05.295-04:00performance at the pool<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixb8ZwkeCViiVBfDYWMn8LsoZe7t7ibvHv97ohL7AnBhAsUYUeKi7eH7-AyjUNoiuW2PloRSfGR88-0kL2Cwx0SguTkwkcfkLvLRfRBW4YXGrzWmtQJhM9rgEwOj4mlhP28uo9XFOJWQ8/s1600/118010.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixb8ZwkeCViiVBfDYWMn8LsoZe7t7ibvHv97ohL7AnBhAsUYUeKi7eH7-AyjUNoiuW2PloRSfGR88-0kL2Cwx0SguTkwkcfkLvLRfRBW4YXGrzWmtQJhM9rgEwOj4mlhP28uo9XFOJWQ8/s320/118010.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497214976187347266" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:courier new;">Every year I declare that I'm going to "audition" for </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-family: courier new;" href="http://www.fluidmovement.org/">Fluid Movement's</a><span style="font-family:courier new;"> Annual Synchronized Swimming Extravaganza... and every year something stupid happens to keep me from doing so. But it isn't going to stop me from going to the performance! </span> <span style="font-family:courier new;">This year, the show is entitled, "Jason and the Aquanauts: 20,000 Legs Over The Sea." Check out the description:</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;font-family:courier new;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"Join the adventure...Come sail away to ancient Greece with the Legendary Greek hero on his perilous quest to find the Golden Fleece as only Fluid Movement can tell it. Replete with battles again a skeleton army, a talking masthead and the glittery costumes and swimming you've come to expect." </span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9gUKXWXhi5mi2DZZ3dVNKmje2jzzxDQspJ7-0N8EXOUW4yExWHpSLLOlebEbJzbcuZTc9kIq511B4JurF4wC8wOGjynSDfLlWaoshJuJZfXsda5h0jpRge6d8Soh4RisN6Z-t0DyjGlQ/s1600/DSC00333.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 245px; height: 184px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9gUKXWXhi5mi2DZZ3dVNKmje2jzzxDQspJ7-0N8EXOUW4yExWHpSLLOlebEbJzbcuZTc9kIq511B4JurF4wC8wOGjynSDfLlWaoshJuJZfXsda5h0jpRge6d8Soh4RisN6Z-t0DyjGlQ/s320/DSC00333.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497218975964843122" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-family:courier new;">SIGN ME UP AND SELL ME A TICKET! I mean, can you get anymore awesome </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyVOap-32VPsoVA7XxU4QBCT7thimm_xB6OwQqVGE2OSzlHzM8hRsKFpViwisWNGFHce9AzG1-wA8PdgPqhKHq3oOBmUGrDSatnyrpEqCibNT35qyPyb3GKC4CRW_GcUylTo5uTUAnoQ/s1600/DSC00334.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyVOap-32VPsoVA7XxU4QBCT7thimm_xB6OwQqVGE2OSzlHzM8hRsKFpViwisWNGFHce9AzG1-wA8PdgPqhKHq3oOBmUGrDSatnyrpEqCibNT35qyPyb3GKC4CRW_GcUylTo5uTUAnoQ/s320/DSC00334.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497216470064175042" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:courier new;">than water ballet combined with glitter and Greek mythology? NO.<br /><br />The Extravaganza will take place at the Patterson Park Pool on Saturday, July 31st at 5:30(Benefit Show and Party - $20), and Sunday August 1st (Show only - $10) at 5 p.m and 7 p.m. Purchase tickets at the door an hour before showtime or <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/118010">online</a>.<br /><br />Anyone want to go with me?<br /><br />love k<br /><br /><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"><br />return to homepage</a><br /><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="www.pattersonparkpatter.blogspot.com"></a></span><script type="text/javascript">var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));</script><script type="text/javascript">try {var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-9213578-1");pageTracker._trackPageview();} catch(err) {}</script>kimiya rae aghevlihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11398399193918481419noreply@blogger.com1