tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542635574206260392024-01-05T03:37:19.604-05:00ellehermansenAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.comBlogger585125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-41592734842511104582015-01-06T23:36:00.000-05:002015-01-07T13:52:36.431-05:00The RODE NT2000 Review! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRcimm41Fy-91oncOZ6H3XqFGkXl_m_JnGz3II_DP9hyphenhyphenuh_W_Z-VksdJSNEJajh_0NgWa8xmjR3PPp8AsOncGdun1ZJjZWHaFiXfFpC7AN88Xypy8jR4J1VXEbjwGU2olA1H0UcVQo-Qa/s1600/DSC01332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRcimm41Fy-91oncOZ6H3XqFGkXl_m_JnGz3II_DP9hyphenhyphenuh_W_Z-VksdJSNEJajh_0NgWa8xmjR3PPp8AsOncGdun1ZJjZWHaFiXfFpC7AN88Xypy8jR4J1VXEbjwGU2olA1H0UcVQo-Qa/s1600/DSC01332.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Over the holidays I had a little time to play around with a new microphone, as RØDE was kind enough to send me my dream mic; The <a href="http://www.rodemic.com/microphones/Nt2000">NT2000</a>. It was an incredible surprise and I am so happy and thankful that I can start the new year with reviewing a very sought-after piece of equipment.<br />
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The first thing that I love about the NT2000, is that it comes with a nice and sturdy carrying case, something that is important if you're touring because it will travel well.<br />
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Inside, along with the microphone, you'll find a RODE SM2 shock mount, with their quick and easy registration; simply scanning the tab attached to the bottom of the mic. Of course an "I love RØDE" sticker along with an owners manual.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJks5aKdoJHMZJQUJWkq6DI3aCSFtfbD5zhLSeLhrKQzUsyhXsaSKmTJIBbwC2NIjfNrZM262PPbfLb9dR6x9xxdxakhhl4LlHb3Vsfu_elf6bkzvNz8iYWYRQhtBgrPFKPFbWE5UQ5f53/s1600/DSC01344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJks5aKdoJHMZJQUJWkq6DI3aCSFtfbD5zhLSeLhrKQzUsyhXsaSKmTJIBbwC2NIjfNrZM262PPbfLb9dR6x9xxdxakhhl4LlHb3Vsfu_elf6bkzvNz8iYWYRQhtBgrPFKPFbWE5UQ5f53/s1600/DSC01344.JPG" height="640" width="510" /></a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwW7xl6_MbN9lMKHHo9j9b_ztGphsTG0_8rbkFKZVoEGL7RsB-Ol-CwtNWHJPv-QZyD9SVcxfMxqohjRHstWTP6CM5s4O6CJR1lFqBosY8k-4ox5t_a9GT8nQBRrlXI0zJqfqgPjTH_hqu/s1600/DSC01357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwW7xl6_MbN9lMKHHo9j9b_ztGphsTG0_8rbkFKZVoEGL7RsB-Ol-CwtNWHJPv-QZyD9SVcxfMxqohjRHstWTP6CM5s4O6CJR1lFqBosY8k-4ox5t_a9GT8nQBRrlXI0zJqfqgPjTH_hqu/s1600/DSC01357.JPG" height="132" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SM2 shockmount</td></tr>
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Because this condenser mic offers countless settings - depending on where you are, or how many different instruments/vox you may be recording within a session, or perhaps as a studio hopper - make sure you keep the manual - as they offer a few pages to write your personal preferences down.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtWB6ZQcYazkF8iHCpLTaKHXQFuaVjT_a90czmu6XJJmKl5HHC2rOqRbXP_bLt54q10kqgip5wWBTy68tBu6z6UDR3Z7k_17F1hA1d3Ty77wyX4dbgH3n0FGCy0O5Zz0itKG4tUnrOEcJ/s1600/DSC01576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtWB6ZQcYazkF8iHCpLTaKHXQFuaVjT_a90czmu6XJJmKl5HHC2rOqRbXP_bLt54q10kqgip5wWBTy68tBu6z6UDR3Z7k_17F1hA1d3Ty77wyX4dbgH3n0FGCy0O5Zz0itKG4tUnrOEcJ/s1600/DSC01576.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a>This wasn't a quick plug-in and play this time around. I mean; yes - the set up is easy, but because the NT2000 offers variable settings - finding the right tone within my recording space led me trying out for hours the first day and then I had to give my ears a rest, and listen, and tweak again the next day.<br />
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I took a photo of my current settings (see photo below) and I have the mic currently sitting in the SMR shockmount that came with the New NT1 with the built-in pop shield that is oh-so-incredible! (SMR designed by Røde but features Rycote lyres)<br />
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Because I mostly sing, and do voiceovers - this microphone is ideal. Also, with offering different polar patterns, bass rolloff, and pad - when it comes to recording a variety of instruments, live shows, or bigger group recordings, this will quickly become the star in anyone's mic locker.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8V2lvLyXlX6wa4DK3BsaG07P03bBBOIdBWKg9SwAlIFSqSixUa_JHMMHcHZuYYEwADPadteTStR_nTbB0JC9fFSWA3XHmL7Y8GT6U4hShM-8-oIGjqb9fSgj7UfRmLvSMjVy_KGtxEAv/s1600/DSC01504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8V2lvLyXlX6wa4DK3BsaG07P03bBBOIdBWKg9SwAlIFSqSixUa_JHMMHcHZuYYEwADPadteTStR_nTbB0JC9fFSWA3XHmL7Y8GT6U4hShM-8-oIGjqb9fSgj7UfRmLvSMjVy_KGtxEAv/s1600/DSC01504.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SMR shockmount. My favourite! - Removed pop filter to show current mic setting.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHOpVBRfu6rdXeiGwZY6tnPHzB17HV75hg1AYG_GBganfZXtNIz3CawjsNGuFze1q3dd2-HZP7RrZSIVmtrnhOQBv2cSaZkC_YfSphuwwioaFa-qOXDTSJry744eyI7RgfGx5G0I_HKhuN/s1600/DSC01434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHOpVBRfu6rdXeiGwZY6tnPHzB17HV75hg1AYG_GBganfZXtNIz3CawjsNGuFze1q3dd2-HZP7RrZSIVmtrnhOQBv2cSaZkC_YfSphuwwioaFa-qOXDTSJry744eyI7RgfGx5G0I_HKhuN/s1600/DSC01434.jpg" height="320" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tara and I couldn't stop giggling trying <br />
to take a holiday photo so this was the best we got!</td></tr>
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This beautifully designed Røde NT2000 is a bit heavier than the <a href="http://ellehermansen.blogspot.ca/2014/08/the-new-rode-nt-usb-review.html">NT-USB</a> and <a href="http://ellehermansen.blogspot.ca/2014/01/the-new-rode-nt1-2014-review.html">NT1</a>. However, its variable polar patterns, highpass filter and db pad right on the mic body may add to the weight. You can also catch a glimpse of its golden Type HF1 dual diaphragm capsule caged pretty under the mic screen. Manufactured and designed in Australia - you can feel and most importantly - hear - the quality.<br />
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The characteristics of the NT2000 has similar qualities to the NT1, with immensely low self-noise, but I personally felt the sound was less brighter and had less colour than the latter. This is actually a good thing. My voice sounds warmer on the NT2000, but not muddy by any means, and my dry-cut vocals sound how I think I sound in my head.<br />
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This is <i>exactly</i> what I am looking for in my voiceover work.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ElfZVsx4yFGoZzuWVs29_BGJet9WOpHaapB6eMuES841IJG56AfDXoDEBwTFYuGIURGWefqDdo0todQphoJHfVJqOrQcGnx6r9mWNe_N5tBZaMVLC4pqNOch9K9-u08lGcph27Dk9yG-/s1600/taramcLeod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ElfZVsx4yFGoZzuWVs29_BGJet9WOpHaapB6eMuES841IJG56AfDXoDEBwTFYuGIURGWefqDdo0todQphoJHfVJqOrQcGnx6r9mWNe_N5tBZaMVLC4pqNOch9K9-u08lGcph27Dk9yG-/s1600/taramcLeod.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tara McLeod on guitar like a boss!</td></tr>
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Usually I will post a sample of what the microphone sounds like - and now is no different! This time, I had to get creative with this, so I invited my good friend, and one of the most talented guitar players I know - Tara McLeod!<br />
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You may know her from the metal band "Kittie" while also shredding for Shawn Desman, when she's not busy in the studio working on other sessions.<br />
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She was awesome enough to come over with a surprise peppermint tea in-hand (because she's amazing like that), and play the acoustic guitar opposite me.<br />
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This was a good way to give you a better idea of what this mic can sound like in its variable patterns. We probably talked a year's worth of podcast episode topics that day ;)<br />
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Always fun!<br />
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I am so abundantly happy with the NT2000. This is a very affordable workhorse of a mic, that owns a sound that could easily boast a much higher price tag. I'm really excited to record my autoharp, and other various instruments - because this microphone is incredibly dynamic, and will confidently serve me well for any kind of recording situation.<br />
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I will post a demo below and I'll start by talking with the cardioid pattern and then Tara and I will switch things up with singing/playing a verse and chorus of my song "The Ghost Between" in the Omni pattern and then a chorus and another verse in the Figure 8 (bi-directional) pattern. I also will mark it in Soundcloud so it's easier to understand. :)<br />
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<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/184847561&color=ccb35f&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false" width="100%"></iframe><br />
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I hope I've made your decision a little easier!<br />
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<!--3-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-46012890866031541542014-08-18T11:08:00.002-04:002014-08-18T11:26:46.435-04:00The New RODE NT-USB Review!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAXZK0FcEeFmUpL8Wtn1U0aCFcVQqNvn2kvUJ45Tt2rx3dqZ_eDPqX3Q_95odmCtgRs-g-bpnrpfi9UFoVmkY43HRW5o6Bfsu66233QSj2pfvrfE6AWBbNOG4ZlLObX7WPdtWNAGODwBL/s1600/DSC00997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAXZK0FcEeFmUpL8Wtn1U0aCFcVQqNvn2kvUJ45Tt2rx3dqZ_eDPqX3Q_95odmCtgRs-g-bpnrpfi9UFoVmkY43HRW5o6Bfsu66233QSj2pfvrfE6AWBbNOG4ZlLObX7WPdtWNAGODwBL/s1600/DSC00997.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I’ve purchased a couple of USB microphones in the not-so-distant past and ended up feeling disappointed. Thus, I didn’t have high expectations for the new RØDE NT-USB.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After my purchase of the new RØDE NT1 (read my very in-depth review of their mic <a href="http://ellehermansen.blogspot.ca/2014/01/the-new-rode-nt1-2014-review.html">here</a>), I was having trouble finding a good microphone for traveling. I wasn’t sure if I was ready to be disappointed by yet another USB-based microphone purchase – and really, really wanted to try the new NT-USB at some point, when I was ready to make another go at it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">RØDE was kind enough, however, to send me one to review; to see how I felt about theirs and perhaps open my mind to them again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Upon receiving and unboxing, I was overcome by this feeling of zen, that always seems to strike me when I’m opening one of their products. Everything is set up so lovely, neat and easy to assemble.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgerYGwJ7fSF0NnnIgzNnFHuTSpB4zLhyd7is99Q2Ss417qsd93lul4ZzZUyDra05mY3m2dJYh0-ZkkNnDnDTvCG69JCfzfH3e6OHLeCD5NwuhSFnZNwzf63CfGc3PhO7kKCBBlFZ9YaCn4/s1600/DSC01030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgerYGwJ7fSF0NnnIgzNnFHuTSpB4zLhyd7is99Q2Ss417qsd93lul4ZzZUyDra05mY3m2dJYh0-ZkkNnDnDTvCG69JCfzfH3e6OHLeCD5NwuhSFnZNwzf63CfGc3PhO7kKCBBlFZ9YaCn4/s1600/DSC01030.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unboxing! RØDE offers such an easy way to register your equipment with one simple scan :) </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Australian designed NT-USB is the fraternal twin of the NT1 with similar weight and outstanding hardware quality. This time, they offer on-board monitoring with a zero-latency headphone monitoring jack - offering independent level and mix control. This makes plug-in play incredibly easy, especially for quick takes on the iPad.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinhpQmL6bHPhpedPQks2loptXQL_tbRufdGyNOj3t1PIOLcB3zP9AffK2cGE7bx0vzCh4VHi-DMxdicURJ5ujGDEPnw0wKcjvT6H7P6P4nRw_Sm46OzYUQFGQe18NbVlz4Ozohk6gWaKO-/s1600/DSC01041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinhpQmL6bHPhpedPQks2loptXQL_tbRufdGyNOj3t1PIOLcB3zP9AffK2cGE7bx0vzCh4VHi-DMxdicURJ5ujGDEPnw0wKcjvT6H7P6P4nRw_Sm46OzYUQFGQe18NbVlz4Ozohk6gWaKO-/s1600/DSC01041.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Independent level and mix control featuring a zero-latency headphone monitoring jack.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The NT-USB is housed with an attractive pop shield and desktop stand, zip case and impressively long 6m USB cable - all included. I will also state that these are never rubbish throw-ins and that I am always impressed with the quality and durability of the stand and pop-shield.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPmWUr3d1aCBikUutszaDzA7jwSe1RtnkqYUvPlNj9kiP78SpCFaSGDlMJMiniVGrv9tjekI9o2NZfanWPygYkw6lFHHYUH0PaqctL_7ZHp8mo9m6Bg0nfKeq-_OnqY0r9TDPwde9pn-v9/s1600/DSC01056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPmWUr3d1aCBikUutszaDzA7jwSe1RtnkqYUvPlNj9kiP78SpCFaSGDlMJMiniVGrv9tjekI9o2NZfanWPygYkw6lFHHYUH0PaqctL_7ZHp8mo9m6Bg0nfKeq-_OnqY0r9TDPwde9pn-v9/s1600/DSC01056.jpg" height="640" width="352" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insert 2001: Space Odyssey music here*</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Set-up was pretty standard and easy as pie! I wanted to put it to the test through a standard recording program like Garage Band and my laptop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When plugging in, "Ooo!" I was greeted by a soft, blue glow sharing a tiny spot with the condenser capsule to let you know it was on and working. I quite liked this feature and it was a cool extra surprise. Yes, a blue light inside a microphone amused me ;)</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNum6GtNJlV-UtcTUA7X127kpcR1K9_MY8pjBASeiZ2ymZqg9_PAvWEcXSQY21KI7Rj0BBZN1WqHlGdVoMoDwjzVtSs9HjUzIGQOa8zq9VyFu7SEOgEULkA7Vd-2znSyqsV8z2Cz-94L2O/s1600/DSC01105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNum6GtNJlV-UtcTUA7X127kpcR1K9_MY8pjBASeiZ2ymZqg9_PAvWEcXSQY21KI7Rj0BBZN1WqHlGdVoMoDwjzVtSs9HjUzIGQOa8zq9VyFu7SEOgEULkA7Vd-2znSyqsV8z2Cz-94L2O/s1600/DSC01105.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now for the sound - the most important part. Like I mentioned before - I have become a little jaded by USB based condenser microphones - especially the couple that I've tried. My voice would usually get a little muddy and boomy with the cheap sounding characteristics. These were also $200 + and I didn't know what to think about the NT-USB because it was set at such a great price point.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My voice right out of the box is bright and carries the similar characteristics of the new NT1. I'm incredibly impressed this is even a USB based cardioid, condenser microphone because I feel that you usually lose a lot of that studio-slick sound that often gets bogged down and almost dirty (and not a good dirty) :)</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's safe to say that the new NT-USB has swooned me. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Again I will honestly say the same thing that I did about the NT1 about the new NT-USB - that you are getting so much bang for your buck. I refuse to say you're getting quality ..."for the price" because again - this is all quality and this holds up incredibly well. It's quite surprisingly, lovely sounding.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/163671759&color=e2bd86&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false" width="100%"></iframe></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will add a recording just above, to give you an idea. I might be getting slight sibilance, but that is nothing that a de-esser couldn't quickly fix. Actually - considering this is an untreated recording, I'm impressed with the brightness and the lack of sibilance that I usually expect to follow with types of condensers. The plosives are greatly taken care of by the pop screen and the desktop stand is doing a solid task. This is a raw recording and out of my treated "studio".</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmAm9DekN8Bn3BUtQ5Wo_a6nwTrw1FNz8lPL4t_xES_hKE5eV6Dc9EFOv3pDH3qt1gixw6SYvKQlAsxhUONv23bzjfz7NaQ5mCQ_h4RnRxBmTRXtHkqbMrnJsmNwZ13e2UuyKnXuyGogGc/s1600/DSC01048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmAm9DekN8Bn3BUtQ5Wo_a6nwTrw1FNz8lPL4t_xES_hKE5eV6Dc9EFOv3pDH3qt1gixw6SYvKQlAsxhUONv23bzjfz7NaQ5mCQ_h4RnRxBmTRXtHkqbMrnJsmNwZ13e2UuyKnXuyGogGc/s1600/DSC01048.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The USB cable is 6m (20') long! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The reason I needed a USB based microphone was to my work on-the-go, as I do voice-overs. When I am out n' about traveling and visiting family in Norway, I quite like the option to be able to complete a couple of auditions if I'm unable to slip into a studio while there. This mic will also come in handy when recording songwriting sessions, as it would serve incredibly well with demos, podcasting and beyond!</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm actually excited to record my autoharp and sing and see how that turns out :)</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKSIAvxU-Y5RyyqCCBGjlkTijNJ28ZeX85gYeWYPQ4I7JiWQVpbmdVzLeiotg2olnMLD0k4IMMTeAr8xqyjpu1N-I7CwYKEyMvYyjsgTU38PzPpznY5OPlgKDrizd8lxSuuusuYWTRWdt/s1600/DSC01129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKSIAvxU-Y5RyyqCCBGjlkTijNJ28ZeX85gYeWYPQ4I7JiWQVpbmdVzLeiotg2olnMLD0k4IMMTeAr8xqyjpu1N-I7CwYKEyMvYyjsgTU38PzPpznY5OPlgKDrizd8lxSuuusuYWTRWdt/s1600/DSC01129.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Because posing a microphone as an eye patch is what the cool kids are doing ;) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Overall - I love this microphone and it will make a great addition to my home studio and my suitcase! ;)</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-7175998561035843692014-05-13T00:22:00.001-04:002014-05-13T00:27:21.547-04:00Lykke Li - I Never Learn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn1.goldenplec.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Lykke-Li-I-Never-Learn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn1.goldenplec.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Lykke-Li-I-Never-Learn.jpg" height="640" width="638" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let me just say I've been listening to Lykke Li for years, and this album has moved my soul the most. </span><br />
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The first listen brought me to tears! The incredibly catchy, heartbreaking melodies married to the beautiful production of Björn Yttling and Greg Kurstin nostalgically<span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"> come</span></span><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"> to life on each of her tracks. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">This is one of those "I need this one on vinyl for the vault" records - I haven't got this excited since Susanne Sunfør's latest release "<a href="http://ellehermansen.blogspot.ca/2012/08/susanne-sundfr-silicone-veil.html">Silicone Veil</a>" </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></span>
</span><a href="http://m.cdn.blog.hu/mu/musicpress/image/lykke-handhead3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://m.cdn.blog.hu/mu/musicpress/image/lykke-handhead3.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></span></a><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">Lykke's "I Never Learn" is one of those albums that you hold close and dear, and when you're alone listening with the headphones on... eyes closed - you're only guaranteeing yourself to be in such great company :)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">There hasn't been an album where I've adored every song like I do this one in a very long time. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">I can't even pick a favourite! But, I'm head-over-heels for "I Never Learn", "Just like a Dream", "Silver Line", "Gunshot" and "Sleeping Alone" </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">I've posted my most hearted, below!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">Buy this album. Period. </span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/kE_HPvt0GbY" width="640"></iframe></span><br />
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<span style="color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/E9q56b93fug" width="640"></iframe></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/LcvuBGkVAqE" width="640"></iframe></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/KU1RERV7m8Y" width="640"></iframe></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-74867177255106409562014-04-18T11:19:00.003-04:002014-04-18T11:24:25.090-04:00NRK's Piip-show! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HxpBQIHFLtsQw1bOqX_y654zLTa86JnKYlYeo2agZd6JZF4cKIRuJvtSjl3bA7USFdhlKEFAQYFBzCaOJBaRzqt2ebsxE-3vJDGTq4vooFjxFjXg6hx-rwGyxPORHBYXFK2pke2ahOuG/s1600/birds.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HxpBQIHFLtsQw1bOqX_y654zLTa86JnKYlYeo2agZd6JZF4cKIRuJvtSjl3bA7USFdhlKEFAQYFBzCaOJBaRzqt2ebsxE-3vJDGTq4vooFjxFjXg6hx-rwGyxPORHBYXFK2pke2ahOuG/s1600/birds.jpeg" height="358" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Magne Klann and Lars Aurtande</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you find yourself wondering what you should do today (and every day after that) - look no further than your computer monitor to watch a live-feed of birds hanging out at a coffee shop or nuzzled warm in a cosy decorated apartment. Norway's airing a 3 month run of this "slow-TV reality show" from their broadcasting network NRK.no.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXs7oyPQkZk5s1QxccpaVDPysRilY0vLK_1m3gAUICNEwxklq1Rw-1giaKDT81YngNEFNX5p8mpRC6wMCJttCwhkf92DCBvyHFQNfRqBounbe1H6k-dkxYM_MxkTzBgd-ayZsUBvE9FFZ/s1600/piip.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXs7oyPQkZk5s1QxccpaVDPysRilY0vLK_1m3gAUICNEwxklq1Rw-1giaKDT81YngNEFNX5p8mpRC6wMCJttCwhkf92DCBvyHFQNfRqBounbe1H6k-dkxYM_MxkTzBgd-ayZsUBvE9FFZ/s1600/piip.jpeg" height="196" width="320" /></a></div>
This wonderful collaboration was created by photographer, Magne Klann and model maker, Lars Aurtande. (pictured right with their bird buddies)<br />
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This is the tweetest thing I've ever watched! You can tweet captured photos to them at @<a href="https://twitter.com/NRKpiip">NRKpiip</a> with #nrkpiip<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFPXc8n9rV3j7ZTA8xCBLqQeBXUW-bb0Lo2etyq8wdM4HnxBZIDCfrfx4G-GgUHja9KOMn6ZSfrNSFZV8oe0zVjNSxmeqdovs6jZ_rsCX-ixjQHf_hkyg2HAeEO-0qXY3NUWnpOeoqJtT1/s1600/birds2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFPXc8n9rV3j7ZTA8xCBLqQeBXUW-bb0Lo2etyq8wdM4HnxBZIDCfrfx4G-GgUHja9KOMn6ZSfrNSFZV8oe0zVjNSxmeqdovs6jZ_rsCX-ixjQHf_hkyg2HAeEO-0qXY3NUWnpOeoqJtT1/s1600/birds2.jpeg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birds family that nicely settled into their apartment :)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Photo by Magne Klann and Lars Aurtande</td></tr>
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When I am not watching - I have it on in the background to listen to the birds nearby. I could also open my door for this - but it's much too cold today ;)<br />
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It's very relaxing and brings me back to the country. :)<br />
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If you want to catch the live bird feeds click <a href="http://www.nrk.no/piipshow/">HERE</a>!<br />
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If you're lucky, you can catch some rowdy squirrel visitors!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6mc7Sv8-yk7YuA0MBijq50GMLSLkp8xrsY0sd0haO5K0SN041e5dgcifTtysM2k4npF-OjD_PxEb3b6CbQMxjtLLb6M-BOWY6PyVSZZEhXUeMB4PmlU_eejhLvKhM7Xr0Y6TqySbhBKi/s1600/squirrl.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6mc7Sv8-yk7YuA0MBijq50GMLSLkp8xrsY0sd0haO5K0SN041e5dgcifTtysM2k4npF-OjD_PxEb3b6CbQMxjtLLb6M-BOWY6PyVSZZEhXUeMB4PmlU_eejhLvKhM7Xr0Y6TqySbhBKi/s1600/squirrl.jpeg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-13933890242879326372014-01-29T23:56:00.001-05:002014-01-30T13:52:59.265-05:00Major Parkinson - "Twilight Cinema" Review!<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">One of my most favourite Norwegian bands is back with another killer album! I was growing leery thinking - can these Bergen natives top their self-titled "<a href="http://ellehermansen.blogspot.ca/2009/08/major-parkinson-greatest-unknown-band.html">Major Parkinson</a>" and follow-up "Songs from a Solitary Home" release? (Click the link to read my review from 2009) They did - continuing to guide my heart through darker, intricate shadows with "Twilight Cinema".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I don't even know where to start... Hands down - this album is a soul grabber, much like many other Norwegian acts alike (un-alike).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">A huge thing I miss about living in Stavanger, Norway is enjoying these acts live!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">They are playing at <a href="http://www.folken.no/folken/program/#postArrangement">Folken</a> this Saturday(!!!) by the way! Go watch them for me, Stavanger folk! :) <!--3--><!--3--></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The production is still incredible, while still keeping that Eastern European circus nostalgia through accordions - interwoven from song to song. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Like an Eau de Perfume upon first spritz... settling - I catch "Major Parkinson" top-notes, loud and lavish - mid-notes bringing me through the tight and technical crevices of a fun-house maze in "Songs from a Solitary Home" and the dry-down becomes musky, dark, and animalistic within "Twilight Cinema" making my way deeper into a dusky forest - lost to distant, intoxicating, serenades. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It's a dreamy, heartbreaking, wistful trip. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My thoughts of the members in Major Parkinson being magnificently brilliant - still holds true with their third release. They also have a lovely sounding female vocalist haunting beautifully throughout the tracks (who I wish to know the name of to give her proper recognition!) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The songwriting has always impressed the heck out of me. Jon Ivar Kollbotn inks some pretty wicked lyrics with really catchy melodies to support through his smokey, often mirrored Tom Waits-esque voice. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I can't ever get enough! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This album is a wonderful mastery to add to your collection - promise. I hope this is on an LP record somewhere - then I just need to hunt a perfect gramophone to play it on. ;) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You can buy "Twilight Cinema" along with their other two fantastic albums right on their </span><a href="https://majorparkinson.bandcamp.com/album/twilight-cinema" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">website</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, </span><a href="http://cdon.eu/music/major_parkinson/twilight_cinema-26459176" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">CDON.com</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> , iTunes or simply on the track link embedded, below!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Streaming one of my favourite tracks "A Cabin in the Sky" (I can't even pick a favourite!) along with the rest of the album:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Enjoy! </span><br />
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<iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2909031617/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/t=5/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 522px; width: 350px;"><a href="http://majorparkinson.bandcamp.com/album/twilight-cinema">Twilight Cinema by Major Parkinson</a></iframe></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-31777744189194555002014-01-28T01:08:00.001-05:002014-01-28T08:30:30.358-05:00The Vaya Project - Beautiful Agony (feat. ellemusic) (OFFICIAL VIDEO) and remixes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDplz8AgmbpeGCY8epGvUCvalc2dU4kuv11KDAowkGIRGgGzufQWRNKe7rjbsu4E6nJpTqrMITdhT3gB396X0xXxzfSg9egoT29Q3HGP2p91CkMaQ7Japhh6dOxOOxPhHM3h4jeQre4jy/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDplz8AgmbpeGCY8epGvUCvalc2dU4kuv11KDAowkGIRGgGzufQWRNKe7rjbsu4E6nJpTqrMITdhT3gB396X0xXxzfSg9egoT29Q3HGP2p91CkMaQ7Japhh6dOxOOxPhHM3h4jeQre4jy/s1600/signature.jpg" height="320" width="308" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLRMLyV5R1vQ3NTGscStbEE7NKyKfJYe_60rgcamNp1aQL_MaQ7FUG-QbJEz5wn3K_N9beQIf40OvsG0C4XtaeBuYfnnr04Jq8_8e1-K2FgqWpGqOPAMcOtGKRrID4CrQ_YIwaR9Wzi8C/s1600/dave8elle.jog+2-fixed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLRMLyV5R1vQ3NTGscStbEE7NKyKfJYe_60rgcamNp1aQL_MaQ7FUG-QbJEz5wn3K_N9beQIf40OvsG0C4XtaeBuYfnnr04Jq8_8e1-K2FgqWpGqOPAMcOtGKRrID4CrQ_YIwaR9Wzi8C/s1600/dave8elle.jog+2-fixed.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Hey everyone!<br />
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<span id="goog_2110149038"></span><span id="goog_2110149039"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a>A little while back I was asked by Jeremy Chaulk to write on one of his poppy-er tracks and our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thevayaprojectband?fref=ts">The Vaya Project</a>" and we didn't think it would come out the way it did, and now we have a video - directed by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/David-Cardoso-Photography/253848015563">Dave Cardorso</a>!<br />
collaboration "Beautiful Agony" was born. This was part of one of his projects "<br />
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It's so crazy how things work out sometimes!<br />
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All I want to say is thank you two for believing in this enough to work with me and this track.<br />
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Also - check out a couple very lovely remixes by <a href="https://soundcloud.com/geistweiss">Riley Eichler</a> and Jeremy, featured on <a href="http://indieunderground.ca/indie-music/music-listen-the-vaya-project-beautiful-agony-eye-of-the-beholder-remix-indie-chillwave-goth-pop.html">indieunderground.ca</a>!<br />
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Hope you all enjoy! :)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You know how you find that band, and you listen to them ALL summer (or any whole season) on repeat. I discovered "I Break Horses" a couple of years ago made up of Swedish duo </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20px;">Maria Lindén and </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20px;">Fredrik Balck</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> with their debut album "Hearts" and it was fantastic!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This past summer, I couldn't stop spinning the single "Denial" - and it brought me back to listen to their 2011 release - making me fall in love with them all over again. After they revealed their track "Faith" in the last recent months - it left me yearning for more of their new, darker, electronic, creative path. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;">Maria Lindén and </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;">Fredrik Balck</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Something about Scandinavian musicians - but I always connect with them on a deeper, spiritual level. They get to my soul. Maybe I'm biased being with a Norwegian, and after living there for a couple years - but I get it. I get them! I want to produce and write like them, also ;) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">They have impeccable skills for really catchy melodies and their production is always fantastic! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I've had their album on pre-order on iTunes for some time now - but with a couple days away of their release of "Chiaroscuro" (January 20th) you can stream the full length album- exclusively premiered via Hype Machine! Enjoy it, below! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This album is nothing short of incredible. Get your hands on a copy! <!--3--><!--3--></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-66006078821721539452014-01-10T14:55:00.000-05:002014-01-10T21:28:30.622-05:00The New RODE NT1 2014 Review!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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After a couple of sleepless nights freaking out about my purchase of the Legendary Shure SM7B - which I will say is a pretty wonderful mic (but - maybe for a deeper male voice), I just had serious doubts about this amazing dynamic on my voice. I also felt that it was quiet, and I ordered a Cloud Lifter CL-1 to get the 60db boost it needed. Yet, I felt it wasn't bright enough for my vocals, although I do have a lower female register; some days I can wake up sounding like Kathleen Turner - I only aspire to sound like her one day :)<br />
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Growing up I've had such amazing opportunities to work in state-of-the-art studios since the age of 12, and have seen a lot of gear and beautiful microphones in my day. Ribbons are wonderful to work with and probably a fave personally, but again - being another dynamic, I would need a louder preamp that would pack a lot of gain! Plus, they aren't so cheap.<br />
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Then I thought about a tube, and although it would create a warmer sound, maybe it would lack some of the brightness I would want? I stayed up for the last 2 nights pondering and reading review after review. I always wanted to own a RØDE - but because they were designed and MADE in Australia I thought there was no way I could afford them. I was wrong! After doing much research I stumbled across a few contenders.<br />
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Staying up and getting slightly addicted to their Rode <a href="http://www.rodemic.com/soundbooth">Soundbooth</a> app. I still can't stop singing that "Oooh baby" track. It sticks with you. Well played Rode, very well played. ;)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5vk7yKKieVcgC_IjIoOj576o1wu_nQcIQPPTROdBx6IOdQwTWJcASj56a2I8wyGlGKzuXB_a3XixDCx-C-Y5sN1Siw3WmhGUxLRCTBgeA1-NGoy9CL9f9OF3t7UiWnTBneiBSK6cQNWG/s1600/DSC00736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5vk7yKKieVcgC_IjIoOj576o1wu_nQcIQPPTROdBx6IOdQwTWJcASj56a2I8wyGlGKzuXB_a3XixDCx-C-Y5sN1Siw3WmhGUxLRCTBgeA1-NGoy9CL9f9OF3t7UiWnTBneiBSK6cQNWG/s1600/DSC00736.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These mics are a beauty and of course Rode sturdy. Both designed and made in-house in Australia.</td></tr>
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The <a href="http://www.rodemic.com/mics/ntk">NTK</a> tube mic was up there, along with the <a href="http://www.rodemic.com/mics/nt1000">NT1000</a> (which I believe is a condenser version of the NTK - but I could be totally wrong!), <a href="http://www.rodemic.com/mics/nt2-a">NT2-A</a>, <a href="http://www.rodemic.com/mics/nt1-a">NT1-A</a> and the <a href="http://www.rodemic.com/mics/nt2000">NT2000</a> (which was starting to creep out of my price-range). The highest on my list was the <a href="http://www.rodemic.com/mics/nt1-kit">NT1</a> - new 2014 edition, but because it was SO new I put it out of my mind as I didn't think it would be around here yet, and trekked out to my local shop.<br />
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<a href="http://www.pashop.com/">The P.A Shop</a> is amazing here in London, Ontario - by the way. Incredibly knowledgeable staff, great variety of stock and if you're an out-of-towner Canadian, they offer free shipping! They also ship everywhere else, you can contact them through their chat service or call. They've always been awesome to me and treat me well :)<br />
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They actually have a RØDE vocal booth where I got to try the microphones I wanted to! I could have cried tears of joy finding this out :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9yHwbwoSet91q6MyQ0S0xa1j-9rDbzlgFuKMfPeRAlS6kqQnu28JobSe-2lr19FI9Te3R2suq7124cHkI0dMRVfYOKtijaSvW7Y-v7YUbENi9e2RDB61V-wcAsYOOKzUfP6i2ziC90ekv/s1600/DSC00739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9yHwbwoSet91q6MyQ0S0xa1j-9rDbzlgFuKMfPeRAlS6kqQnu28JobSe-2lr19FI9Te3R2suq7124cHkI0dMRVfYOKtijaSvW7Y-v7YUbENi9e2RDB61V-wcAsYOOKzUfP6i2ziC90ekv/s1600/DSC00739.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet collaboration with Rycote - completing a really professional shock mount.</td></tr>
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First up was the NT1-A. It sounded great, it sounded bright - which wasn't too bad for me for what I wanted. I think I was ready to go for that but wanted to hear all of my options. Next I tried the NT1000 which sounded a little warmer to me and I was warming up to that idea. Then I plugged into the NT2-A which also sounded equally great, and started some confusion because for some reason I couldn't hear too much difference and asked for another opinion.<br />
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The very smart sales associate said he heard more sibilance on my vocals on the NT1000 over the NT2-A. Interesting! I was wondering what to do because I didn't really see myself using the different polar pattern settings as I found the cardioid to be what I would use the most, if not all the time - unless I wanted to do a duet on one mic - or whatever else. It was the next choice on my list.<br />
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Last choice (because the NTK tube wasn't available to try) was the NT2000. I loved the sound because it was sort of warmer than the NT1-A and incredibly smooth. The price was a little higher than I wanted to go - but it was also very sweet sounding. It because a hard choice, I made my vocal round 3 more times and then I decided I was ready to grab the NT1-A, because we both thought it sounded best on my voice.<br />
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In my head, I knew deep down I reeeeallly wanted to try the new NT1 and for some reason I started to walk around aimlessly because ADD gets the best of me sometimes - and for the good because there it was! I had a Wayne's World moment seeing the brand spankin' new box behind glass - "Oh yes, she will be mine."<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUzZw4q98C3haeK3QKqJDaCeCV3B-WL5fcmMV97Q0hQdnM0F5iRhVXp_1CsIKIIEurPlQrURbRzAuxU80U0ruwEIQ2tbiDXTSw5xd21FQCw1JwBdmoIplWPbctEa-KqX-zmnVp-OiG2pS/s1600/DSC00788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUzZw4q98C3haeK3QKqJDaCeCV3B-WL5fcmMV97Q0hQdnM0F5iRhVXp_1CsIKIIEurPlQrURbRzAuxU80U0ruwEIQ2tbiDXTSw5xd21FQCw1JwBdmoIplWPbctEa-KqX-zmnVp-OiG2pS/s1600/DSC00788.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who doesn't want to pose with a new mic? I went with an out-take as I later thought how lame my idea actually was ;)</td></tr>
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There were some waiting to be put out on the floor. "Oh yeah! We JUST got that new NT1 in! I'm equally excited to try it!" the salesman said. Both of us giggling in excitement, as we unboxed it and plugged it in. And there it was...<br />
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I get a smidgen warmer sound and not as bright as the original NT1-A. It gave my vox some nice depth and smoothness. I feel that was what the anniversary edition was lacking for me for MY vocals particularly. I am not knocking the NT1-A whatsoever, but the NT1 had similarities with that I loved about the NT2000. But, this is really just in my opinion and to my ears.<br />
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Perhaps I was just overstimulated, like smelling too many perfumes at once, but I knew in my heart that this one would work for me. At the price point of $320 CDN + tax it was a sound steal. Really happy with it!<br />
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As far as sibilance, it might be there a tad, but when I <i>think</i> about my S's and T's - I try and be cautious and I do sound a lot better, actually. I think you could use a de-esser on it and EQ it out - but it wasn't too bad at all, and a quick fix straight-away if NEED be. Especially when I was singing - it was a non-issue.<br />
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For my voice-over work I'm still trying to see what sounds best, but I sent in a completely dry vocal take and I am pretty sure I got that job :) That says a lot!<br />
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So, for the price - actually not even for the price... For the sound of the microphone, it sits at an affordable advantage to open to a bigger market - to get the proper credit it deserves.<br />
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Oh! They also have this little plug feature on the bottom of the mic that you can scan and it brings you right to the page where you can register for your 10 (!!!) year warranty. I've also read that their customer service is superb, and help without question (well, maybe a couple.)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNH74ibHTETS4MX8tq_cyKALqort2iWXmLUMd-ZEj5IoqQK8dzFWyQ4DEE0zfhZF23dY1ZJm1OiJf1bh80QCCVAia4fTBKuKQysEM1ZHGeSGAit07hqbW1-XUJtVabO-3S98VqtMKM0qj/s1600/DSC00749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNH74ibHTETS4MX8tq_cyKALqort2iWXmLUMd-ZEj5IoqQK8dzFWyQ4DEE0zfhZF23dY1ZJm1OiJf1bh80QCCVAia4fTBKuKQysEM1ZHGeSGAit07hqbW1-XUJtVabO-3S98VqtMKM0qj/s1600/DSC00749.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All metal pop shield and a good locking nut is also included. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The dreaded plosives through the new, and may I say INCREDIBLE, shock mount w/removable pop shield that comes included (SMR designed by Røde but features <a href="http://www.rycote.com/">Rycote</a> lyres) are almost completely gone. Which is actually why I went for the SM7B in the first place. I cannot give this shock mount enough praise. It's nice because you can't go wrong with the space between the mic, and the shield. It has already been ingeniously decided for you! :)<br />
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Another great thing is that this shock mount is compatible with all the NT series - including the K2 tube mic.<br />
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When you're done a session for the day, they also included a nice dust cover for your protecting convenience. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBqXbVIGE4xP-TAR0hmSll3ivbhSd2EVSWNwN5YMPZrbiYpfEUbOIw7DehI9Ks8Hvvvr3T-Owxxoq5cuWagHKjglPlWFnqfmG5e-FwvCgmJlY_zAbnb_jjF8pa1UUOwT7ZSbC4X2yeyRN/s1600/DSC00773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBqXbVIGE4xP-TAR0hmSll3ivbhSd2EVSWNwN5YMPZrbiYpfEUbOIw7DehI9Ks8Hvvvr3T-Owxxoq5cuWagHKjglPlWFnqfmG5e-FwvCgmJlY_zAbnb_jjF8pa1UUOwT7ZSbC4X2yeyRN/s1600/DSC00773.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As you can see, I tried to capture the pop shield in it's detail. It looks like leather on the site ;)</td></tr>
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I own an M-Audio Nova (because I actually love the sound for the money) and although these are both considered brighter cardioid condensers (the Rode NT1 is a little less gritty - in a favourable way) considerably floor noise boasting the "world's quietest 1" Cardioid Condenser", and to me - it seemed to open me up in a less harsh manner. I will keep both of them for my future mic locker as they offer me something a little different.<br />
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All in all, I'm very impressed with the new NT1! You should definitely have a listen! Try all of them, because something might sound better or different to you. Wonderful quality from Rode.<br />
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What is a review without hearing what it sounds like? I will post a sound clip below completely dry through Reason 6 and Prøpellerhead's balance (which I am also in love with!) below:<br />
<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/128874643&color=dba95f&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe><br />
For reference: I am a new voice-over artist at ellevox.ca (which is very much under construction) and an old singer-songwriter ;) I'll be using this microphone mainly for vocals and some acoustic guitar. You can check out my music <a href="https://soundcloud.com/ellemusic-2">soundcloud</a>. (Even though I produce mostly electronic music:)<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1QQCTm6xNBhTZgsAHxHyE3h10PB_jj8ags-6z03Fml61zIuBE_Rp-s6iI2s9Sr4GwAMS3Uog-zec9CkFHOhPxfm8JdsOIkQqSGDwR7YaZ5NOojbKbGQ56CC5jfvEqWUlpDIqFdG0N2fh/s1600/DSC00765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1QQCTm6xNBhTZgsAHxHyE3h10PB_jj8ags-6z03Fml61zIuBE_Rp-s6iI2s9Sr4GwAMS3Uog-zec9CkFHOhPxfm8JdsOIkQqSGDwR7YaZ5NOojbKbGQ56CC5jfvEqWUlpDIqFdG0N2fh/s1600/DSC00765.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little humble (and un-treated - don't judge me) home studio. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-55306758620186936612013-12-09T00:04:00.003-05:002013-12-09T00:09:04.110-05:00Tove Lo! "Habits" is Beautiful! <br />
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<a href="http://cdn.pitchfork.com/tracks/15242/homepage_large.f90b866b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.pitchfork.com/tracks/15242/homepage_large.f90b866b.jpg" /></a></div>
I have this song on on repeat by Tove Lo called "Habits" and of course she is from Sweden. There is a magnetic connection between the Scandinavian people, their beats and I! The production is fantastic and incredibly catchy. I just love this woman's voice, also :)<br />
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This track is going to be huge and she should be Lorde famous :)<br />
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Enjoy the track, below!<br />
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<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/83449271&color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-48272697584644287672013-11-20T23:33:00.000-05:002013-11-20T23:35:57.494-05:002013 MINI Cooper S All4 Countryman! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjW7bq73IMcw5Ns1w5lvwe-8jEwG-wAdUHlOTr-xAGwdM883FhQdCo616WI2XqVsaxrPXPm6ZLNXoRWQVYzbmkQxOZmwNZjSFWlETcYp596osN-OyMtJ4oCWVpkbzgkiuylGNtkvk2hvY/s1600/mini-logo-at-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjW7bq73IMcw5Ns1w5lvwe-8jEwG-wAdUHlOTr-xAGwdM883FhQdCo616WI2XqVsaxrPXPm6ZLNXoRWQVYzbmkQxOZmwNZjSFWlETcYp596osN-OyMtJ4oCWVpkbzgkiuylGNtkvk2hvY/s640/mini-logo-at-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Wow! I can't even believe I didn't properly post what car I went with - It was just assumed it made it on instagram/facebook/twitter that it would be everywhere - but obviously not my most important place. Here! It's really been a decade since I've wrote a post (6 months?!) and I feel so bad. So, here is a little update :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15zmN3kNJHalMHUQ2SGZNyC2xNVq6ZpIVPhLEkgFhfspMnNhizGjek9aisVeg6nAsjMZhIFPFFcTNXx18EHhnzwsjl2bHkn9foaBZI_ng0cu_HddNL-L-aqHjY08sjAScG3ebgetCRiyZ/s1600/2013mnicooperSAll4countryman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15zmN3kNJHalMHUQ2SGZNyC2xNVq6ZpIVPhLEkgFhfspMnNhizGjek9aisVeg6nAsjMZhIFPFFcTNXx18EHhnzwsjl2bHkn9foaBZI_ng0cu_HddNL-L-aqHjY08sjAScG3ebgetCRiyZ/s640/2013mnicooperSAll4countryman.jpg" width="636" /></a></div>
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So, basically I said goodbye to be beloved <a href="http://ellehermansen.blogspot.ca/2013/06/officially-saying-ta-ta-for-now-to-my.html">MINI Cooper</a> in pepper white on pepper white (LOVED that colour) and got the new Cooper S All4 Countryman in white with the cool black roof and piano black interior and black headlights with all those fancy bells and whistles. The black around the lights was a wonderful safety feature to be seen in the snow. Safety is always first - but it was also imperative that I HAD to have the sound system (Harman Kardon) and navigation packages because I enjoy getting lost in the country on a warm summers eve from time to time... and incase my phone died while I was out - I could rely on this ;)<br />
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Like the original Cooper, I am equally - if not more blown away and in love with my new ride. The nostalgia from the first car I will always keep close to my heart - but I don't miss him deeply as much as I thought I would after getting used to his bigger brother. :)<br />
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The last post before my music one about wanting another child was really an idea that was going around ( one of the reasons I wanted a 4 door) - but I am very happy with miss Edie at the moment. Who knows what the future may hold for us - but for right now I'd like to focus on my music and just being a good mother to the little blessing and joy that I already have :)<br />
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Here is a picture (posted above) from my instagram account www.instagram.com/ellemusic if you care to follow! It's been 6 months with this beauty already...Time does fly!<br />
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So, if you stumble upon my blog in perhaps a quest for a new car or just wanting a perspective from a MINI driver with a few years of experience under her belt - the countryman is the way to go for a bigger alternative if you need the space, but don't want to give up the MINI lifestyle ;)<br />
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If you have any questions, as always - I'd be more than happy to answer :)<br />
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From now on, I will try and be better at posting more on here!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-80204072389071203742013-07-18T17:00:00.002-04:002013-07-18T17:02:54.043-04:00New Song! "Control of Me" Ellemusic & Gerald Joseph Gardiner <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzaEvsLF2sn2Gt3r8o5Vob_nCtcHl0WStl68GKuS0fxID9q69TcLQiN3uHjbsNqpLHDYIVaSwEw9GzfoUNVkkCEJu1CT6rE-bSHOEk_G0RIn6_7W9WpyUd7v1YR1CKVtighvNQk8yB6XH_/s1600/controlofmeellemusic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzaEvsLF2sn2Gt3r8o5Vob_nCtcHl0WStl68GKuS0fxID9q69TcLQiN3uHjbsNqpLHDYIVaSwEw9GzfoUNVkkCEJu1CT6rE-bSHOEk_G0RIn6_7W9WpyUd7v1YR1CKVtighvNQk8yB6XH_/s640/controlofmeellemusic.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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Hey Sweethearts!<br />
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Finished another song this week with Gerald Joseph Gardiner! He's been a long time friend and producer of my music since I was 13. We always find a way to come together to make sweet beats - sharing our huge love for Depeche Mode and other great New Wave bands.<br />
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We collaborated on "Control of Me" and really hope you enjoy it! :)<br />
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<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F101625295&color=ff6600&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-10603027912463107452013-06-04T11:41:00.003-04:002013-06-04T11:43:01.134-04:00Officially saying Ta Ta for now to my MINI Cooper! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.automotivespecialistsoshkosh.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/mini-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://www.automotivespecialistsoshkosh.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/mini-logo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Today I officially say goodbye, as I sold my MINI cooper and purchased myself a 4-door. I love my car dearly, but I've been seriously contemplating adding a little person (Yes! Crazy! I know!) at some point soon in my life - and I don't think I could put 2 children in car seats this way. I will say it was ok with just one, but the first year and a half wasn't easy as pie. (Pie is not easy)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6M2v1kPja9KfI1YDzvYGO41bsfyjTdXQ1ItdV41CTO5VQgZyN_21eJUEbYZuGAIgY3usufpVPom8yUEPwjRaeXIjX7lIJI3lir8ZMo6iSMPqJ3ekVFGpnPmqj8Q_5PWiSaC_hk4gMgUfN/s1600/IMG_6165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6M2v1kPja9KfI1YDzvYGO41bsfyjTdXQ1ItdV41CTO5VQgZyN_21eJUEbYZuGAIgY3usufpVPom8yUEPwjRaeXIjX7lIJI3lir8ZMo6iSMPqJ3ekVFGpnPmqj8Q_5PWiSaC_hk4gMgUfN/s640/IMG_6165.JPG" width="640" /></a>It's weird to say I have this emotional bond to my Agent Cooper. (Yes, huge Twin Peaks fan here!) but not to the point I want to make-out with it like TLC "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0S642NtHtE">My Strange Addiction</a>" styles. Click that link if you don't know what I mean ;)<br />
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I mean - just see at how awkward our relationship looks. We can't explain the connection - but it's there. ;)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother-in-law took this photo for me. She did a great job in all my awkward glory last night ;)</td></tr>
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Anyways, I wanted to devote a post just to my first car and how amazing the MINI cooper is! I'll post my new car tomorrow - if I don't instagram it this evening. I'll give you a giant hint though - I didn't leave the MINI world! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocLKEIsiJK4-mcxH6PMzLAQSDqMTjqo1TGZjYNg-Gwk85vfun5EJhN0xCsjagbq725URwebqaN3td52B9JG4z7g7b4FgnoGInZUPAUCR9-NLnA7eMxdhi5En3wCsW0dRSRpATEpW7Ze6t/s1600/IMG_6166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocLKEIsiJK4-mcxH6PMzLAQSDqMTjqo1TGZjYNg-Gwk85vfun5EJhN0xCsjagbq725URwebqaN3td52B9JG4z7g7b4FgnoGInZUPAUCR9-NLnA7eMxdhi5En3wCsW0dRSRpATEpW7Ze6t/s640/IMG_6166.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Going to miss you, cute car! Enjoy 100x more driving from someone who can really drive you good and hard! xo<br />
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I'll also link the first time when I <a href="http://ellehermansen.blogspot.ca/2010/04/my-new-ride-officially-part-of-mini.html">bought</a> it! Good memories! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-F6035kr9-jEO0yIEJUP5wEl2OQFRItKPJH4TKYScE8RYgP_U_FdQN7Qj0ayeaN6dkAI7LX4AFX6ZzkqMq3gGw-FMizEu5YTtiUul09YJCTil86dJ2LYWo1_5w4_0nnUQeVhhs8bMKvbo/s1600/IMG_6167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-F6035kr9-jEO0yIEJUP5wEl2OQFRItKPJH4TKYScE8RYgP_U_FdQN7Qj0ayeaN6dkAI7LX4AFX6ZzkqMq3gGw-FMizEu5YTtiUul09YJCTil86dJ2LYWo1_5w4_0nnUQeVhhs8bMKvbo/s640/IMG_6167.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So long, chap. <3></3><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-1615038401639388682013-06-01T23:38:00.000-04:002013-06-01T23:38:34.720-04:00Crystal Fighters - Cave Rave!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Heck YES! This is some fantastic summer music to dance/drive to! Crystal Fighters (British/Spanish) formed in Spain in 2007 and are making quite the impression with their "Cave Rave" album! It was just released May 27th 2013 - and I feel giant things are going to happen with this amazing group.<br />
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Some really wonderful production on these tracks that implicate a sweeter acoustical sound of the 60s/70s era with it's ghostly, soulful melodies - then it surprisingly pierces your soul with 80's synths that satisfy :) <br />
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<a href="http://www.clashmusic.com/sites/default/files/styles/article_feature/public/legacy/files/Crystal%20Fighters_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="http://www.clashmusic.com/sites/default/files/styles/article_feature/public/legacy/files/Crystal%20Fighters_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some magical electronic music happening! It's hard NOT to dance around and jump in circles to this album... If you can't understand that - Where's your soul? ;) <br />
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Here's one of their tracks - WAVE - the track that took my heart out into the ocean of Crystal Fighters! <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/C8VK28eCuQ0" width="560"></iframe><br />
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"Separator" was the other song that I really enojyed as well! I see they have a video for this as well!<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Zxdw7KTF-bM" width="560"></iframe><br />
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You HAVE to buy this album. I promise you won't regret it :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*review based on my honest opinion as I purchase everything myself. </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-46207589629529450662013-05-28T22:43:00.002-04:002013-05-28T22:43:21.287-04:00Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Pt. Deux! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee503/Shaunna-PerfectlyImperfect/Current%20Sponsor%20Buttons/chalkpaintlogo_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee503/Shaunna-PerfectlyImperfect/Current%20Sponsor%20Buttons/chalkpaintlogo_300.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It would be a disservice to my mother if I didn't write a post about the vanity piece we both worked on together, a couple months ago!<br />
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The original pine, varnished desk was my gramma's and it wasn't in-use at my parents house. My dad could not bare to part with it, and wanted to keep it within the family. One evening my mother called to tell me she had the wonderful idea of painting it to use in my room. "As long as it's in the family" she said. I thought it was nice keepsake to have with me, too. :) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDp8xmosiMdk99Sq-XUAHfokhtJdBcjKYsVnxr97xyu_9ijUfNvsuHH9uxZVWOmq2WrjrJbyfAHeLKGbxsQD0WU0yUv5aqdt2UyV5vGluOJ7mp8y72-EmUwfSREbk4VQJNZyu2pzxWDJjC/s1600/IMG_6146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDp8xmosiMdk99Sq-XUAHfokhtJdBcjKYsVnxr97xyu_9ijUfNvsuHH9uxZVWOmq2WrjrJbyfAHeLKGbxsQD0WU0yUv5aqdt2UyV5vGluOJ7mp8y72-EmUwfSREbk4VQJNZyu2pzxWDJjC/s640/IMG_6146.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
The chair we left natural (thrifted), the mirror we used "French Linen" and a touch of "Old White" mixed together to match the desk. We watered it down a lot to give it a milky finish. Then taking a gold dust sheet - we rubbed it all over the edges to highlight the detailing.<br />
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The chalk paints are gorgeous to work with - no joke! We also took the same gold dust and darkened the corners of the desk drawers and their edges with the same golden sparkle. This was after it was clear waxed and dried. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMQmpuALs37MnEmNaq5RwJdvWhMZF2suUZT9ylMUEg2rQ0ehedTegwLjgprhtNKRSoIUYHyVNHVGq8nbRtMt3kFghu3mldGKQWaQImsbEpvURMVN0txJMwEfoLAq7SdwWxBaOZt1lTyC2g/s1600/IMG_6147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMQmpuALs37MnEmNaq5RwJdvWhMZF2suUZT9ylMUEg2rQ0ehedTegwLjgprhtNKRSoIUYHyVNHVGq8nbRtMt3kFghu3mldGKQWaQImsbEpvURMVN0txJMwEfoLAq7SdwWxBaOZt1lTyC2g/s640/IMG_6147.jpg" width="430" /></a></div>
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It was good fun to do! Here are a couple art pieces I have in SUPER old frames! The top illustration is "Cat Woman" by Sandra Dieckmann and below was an extra little surprise gift I received from the lovely, and equally talented Kelli Murray! She made her hair brown as well! So sweet! You might have seen this same girl with blonde hair in my brother and sister-in-laws wedding video ;) <br />
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Hope to paint some other little things, soon!<br />
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Are you a first time Annie Sloan chalk paint, painter? How do you like it? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-55730465763153628252013-04-17T10:27:00.000-04:002013-04-17T10:40:33.714-04:00Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgie11f-RPrHReI0JwxhEk9TUR_fsh4A5blH9ej7lIYk2PsFhfdp8u0vjGwT8Vu69kAI1ytEDn8FzyWY_dqWrHL2BfP2z7vJd9wkNsXg7VCgZiJ2h_g2LkVz3ehTsIho08sB0w18fVh1M7V/s1600/Annie+Sloan+Hands+Picture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgie11f-RPrHReI0JwxhEk9TUR_fsh4A5blH9ej7lIYk2PsFhfdp8u0vjGwT8Vu69kAI1ytEDn8FzyWY_dqWrHL2BfP2z7vJd9wkNsXg7VCgZiJ2h_g2LkVz3ehTsIho08sB0w18fVh1M7V/s640/Annie+Sloan+Hands+Picture.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yrBT1kzIeOZfMkzDucKFIzADbEHlMDynYuWBzSUdzv2nNoPmqccVnxhBHCctvnHXxGiIWuo7k0c78PBYx5X-168cW0TDfTxveu8Ohi9rH0LbDeXllWFGFMutxbE98mzyMDFd_ISG0tGW/s1600/Annie_Sloan%E2%84%A2_-_signature_logo_2010_VECTOR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yrBT1kzIeOZfMkzDucKFIzADbEHlMDynYuWBzSUdzv2nNoPmqccVnxhBHCctvnHXxGiIWuo7k0c78PBYx5X-168cW0TDfTxveu8Ohi9rH0LbDeXllWFGFMutxbE98mzyMDFd_ISG0tGW/s640/Annie_Sloan%E2%84%A2_-_signature_logo_2010_VECTOR.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A couple weeks ago, I posted a "before" or "while-working-on" projects - and then some events happened <br />
in my life that just made me not in the mood to post, not to mention busy with the little one. :)<br />
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I will say, I am not a painter - I love to paint my nails and face as I find it therapeutic when I can concentrate on one thing and focus - because focusing isn't second nature to me most of the time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XunE27hBbffmdJcp2LBOUeJwdrCCIEjtOORWW-Jgv4SidQouYSZbzkC5gwsOwuBhl5NV7lOUzUJnvWKMS9Bv0fjNBuRU8eAdEOlwkfCy-qv3I2H2PwUpI2laURzUaaalfmRObxvg_Wf9/s1600/anniesloanchalkpainthaul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XunE27hBbffmdJcp2LBOUeJwdrCCIEjtOORWW-Jgv4SidQouYSZbzkC5gwsOwuBhl5NV7lOUzUJnvWKMS9Bv0fjNBuRU8eAdEOlwkfCy-qv3I2H2PwUpI2laURzUaaalfmRObxvg_Wf9/s400/anniesloanchalkpainthaul.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It wasn't easy to make the decision to try and paint because I was afraid of failing! My painting skills are really that bad! Or, I just never applied myself.<br />
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One night my mom was showing me all these beautiful Pinterest ideas using her paints and the colours looked divine she was saying "Oh this is all Annie Sloan Chalk Paint!" both of us were getting way too over-excited and giddy! We'll simply blame the wine ;) <br />
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We ended up finding a local retailer in St. Thomas called Diamonds & Toads (they are super <br />
amazing!) and we brought home "Duck Egg", "Scandinavian Pink", "Old White" a small container of "Antoinette" and couple of her signature brushes and one for waxing along with her clear soft wax. It made it easier on the pocket because my brother and his wife also chipped in some money for my mom for Mother's Day, too! <br />
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We started on a little stool, and chair and end-table for Edie's room! The end-table started out a lighter Scandinavian pink, but once I brought it into her room it just became too much. Personally, I feel she wouldn't be able to grow with the piece as much as she could with the duck egg blue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZVZG7sh3pqrX92UHYfURfJInVb6W08hbdQTKEcAvptHYOyzfqpkNxHFcLaoDLhHBeoACDkWf3ZkzRcEss2BAN7SDe_84jboYHiv3ZqMG__yI5noAMbAy4M7PwBIY8K6kqEqeq3L00rJ2/s1600/workinganniesloan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZVZG7sh3pqrX92UHYfURfJInVb6W08hbdQTKEcAvptHYOyzfqpkNxHFcLaoDLhHBeoACDkWf3ZkzRcEss2BAN7SDe_84jboYHiv3ZqMG__yI5noAMbAy4M7PwBIY8K6kqEqeq3L00rJ2/s320/workinganniesloan.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
A little of this paint goes a LONG way! While you're painting, you'll notice it getting thicker an unless that is what sort of look you're going for - just simply add a few drops of water and mix it up again. You can also water it really down and have it more as a milk paint style. Her paint is just that versatile!<br />
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Using the Annie Sloan brushes made this project a breeze, and actually quite fun that I didn't have to paint my pieces a certain way. I think that is where my ADD creativity really got to shine on this one :)<br />
<a href="http://www.annie-sloan.appspot.com/acatalog/brush12250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="http://www.annie-sloan.appspot.com/acatalog/brush12250.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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The pieces are lighter than the actual colours because we mixed 2 parts Duck Egg Blue to 1 part Old White and the same for Scandinavian Pink - just to make it softer for a little girl's room. <br />
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Mom (she's helped me so much!) and I recently did a project by painting my Gramma's old desk in "French Linen" mixed with "Old White" with the same mixing ratio - but I will post that one another day :)<br />
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The other WONDERFUL thing (there are so many!) about this paint is that it has no smell! I was happy to work with Edie talking and playing right beside me. So, it's very safe :) <br />
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Here is her stool and chair. We did the "Louboutin" idea and threw Duck Egg Blue under the chair so when she rocked, it was an extra little surprise :) I didn't capture it, but I am sure there will be more pictures of her on it, soon! Her little Maileg bunnies enjoy the newly painted pieces, very much! <br />
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Here is the end table with her other Maileg characters. The bed inside is even called "Duck Egg" and seem to match pretty close but a little lighter and a touch more green.<br />
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The little girl loves that small cubby for a mini bedroom for her mice and bunnies. <br />
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The stool is a little darker, because we used the dark wax instead of clear - so you can really see the colour difference. Both are gorgeous and classic either way :) (and obviously didn't get the stool in the shot, but you get what I mean ;) <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURLSnh0exeSon_nQ6e7J4tY74KGI032RlTLytm9JC5tRYSMz7tMEFMDHCxUB4C4l9wOV3Hn8c53-hLfKK1gpPAcEiLXIhfKuzaXwD0IXQxe0HPQHKPJhKvu7sww5VcndzaIgd8Gz3qPHJ/s1600/IMG_6139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURLSnh0exeSon_nQ6e7J4tY74KGI032RlTLytm9JC5tRYSMz7tMEFMDHCxUB4C4l9wOV3Hn8c53-hLfKK1gpPAcEiLXIhfKuzaXwD0IXQxe0HPQHKPJhKvu7sww5VcndzaIgd8Gz3qPHJ/s640/IMG_6139.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is her room to see how it looks with everything else. :) </td></tr>
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Tobias, our Ragdoll cat is a huge fan of the newly painted pieces. It's his favourite room, now. He gives this paint 5 paws up! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErYJF6LbRbE4WRVn7weh_uN0gB51vXb3ya0zqUM_WTeySmcWiFx5P832GQgwCwu4tdwIkjTCXzvVkkWErsi7EsEV-rmRto82m-PITWkYp5s3xMn9XdRLq0PqZZN0cC-eEWyBSF9fcAuQG/s1600/IMG_6140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErYJF6LbRbE4WRVn7weh_uN0gB51vXb3ya0zqUM_WTeySmcWiFx5P832GQgwCwu4tdwIkjTCXzvVkkWErsi7EsEV-rmRto82m-PITWkYp5s3xMn9XdRLq0PqZZN0cC-eEWyBSF9fcAuQG/s640/IMG_6140.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Get some Annie Sloan paint! You'll love it and best of all, you'll be able to work with it effortlessly!<br />
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Also! This is my 600th blog post, on Ellehermansen.com! Woot!<br />
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Thank you all for reading :) <br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*This review is genuine and out-of-pocket paid for. </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-32821659658468562472013-03-08T12:24:00.001-05:002013-03-08T12:24:18.134-05:00Happy International Women's Day! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6P1BMK6YngWDn7pe6J38PiNw-9vK-79Udup_uwyyGYht9Il2XiVkYgp323JN9qW0uPLSuXg33ZWoWNeJPyOVkPNIibut0RweG-XKyvaUOFWhQISUb5n76JES1HShZURapWhRRRp0zqLf/s1600/international-women's-day-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6P1BMK6YngWDn7pe6J38PiNw-9vK-79Udup_uwyyGYht9Il2XiVkYgp323JN9qW0uPLSuXg33ZWoWNeJPyOVkPNIibut0RweG-XKyvaUOFWhQISUb5n76JES1HShZURapWhRRRp0zqLf/s400/international-women's-day-g.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Leave it to google to make such a cool image! Let's celebrate us ladies of the world! :) </div>
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Maybe over some tea, perhaps? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDope3VYQXfamVqNQpRAx-sTa6BjBD1IZcoL9JW-rTTcOASjjzCbsl9jVSNsEjbZWQysmf920g0ubRGezFvQxtmDI988Qv4-IE5gmLMGm6Cf34BGzd6la1uANGc-qnYg1moCg1WKww8WIu/s1600/womensday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDope3VYQXfamVqNQpRAx-sTa6BjBD1IZcoL9JW-rTTcOASjjzCbsl9jVSNsEjbZWQysmf920g0ubRGezFvQxtmDI988Qv4-IE5gmLMGm6Cf34BGzd6la1uANGc-qnYg1moCg1WKww8WIu/s640/womensday.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-79744395749213226732013-02-20T19:11:00.001-05:002013-02-20T19:11:25.538-05:00A Sloth Offers A Gift! This sloth melts me!!! The cutest fur face, ever! <br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ry77_7xFc6c" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-27937710931788367952013-02-15T09:32:00.000-05:002013-02-15T09:32:01.361-05:00Canada Prioritizes Zombie Apocalypse!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://studenthost.sehsapps.net/barcus/images/zombiez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://studenthost.sehsapps.net/barcus/images/zombiez.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love this clip so much, I have to share it everywhere!<br />
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"Canada will never be a safe haven for zombies" because we're "Dead-i-cated" har har har!!! <br />
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Love you crazy canucks! <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-NXeXbCUiFE" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-68315017698864095352013-02-14T15:33:00.000-05:002013-02-14T15:40:49.211-05:00Happy Valentine's Day! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK9jmC1zaQoa_lz-qIsoiKVk96xpxwSpqJCBERSlIM9wjoLI0DwAMURBiii5ynP3LJzF_y1ig6AGjj_XttOWWgVEPlExWcEacb7S8cZYLmesJ9RaFmwF7JJ_V1aFYQYm1unmgcKtAVYWXh/s1600/victorianvalentine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK9jmC1zaQoa_lz-qIsoiKVk96xpxwSpqJCBERSlIM9wjoLI0DwAMURBiii5ynP3LJzF_y1ig6AGjj_XttOWWgVEPlExWcEacb7S8cZYLmesJ9RaFmwF7JJ_V1aFYQYm1unmgcKtAVYWXh/s640/victorianvalentine.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Happy Valentine's Day! </div>
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Technically, I spent my Valentine's celebrations in Niagara Falls last weekend. It was quite sweet because the husband treated me to a spa day at the "<a href="http://www.sheratononthefalls.com/niagara-falls-spa.php">Christienne Fallsview Spa</a>" in the Sheraton On The Falls hotel where we were staying and also where we had our first date 5 years ago after meeting earlier that day in my small town - having a quick fish dinner and the "OK" from my parents to let me go off with this stranger man ;) </div>
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The spa was amazing despite the mixed reviews on tripadvisor, which I am about to change. These girls are lovely, and educated! I got to watch the falls at sunset and the view was gorgeous :) </div>
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You also HAVE to eat at WINDOWS by <a href="http://windowsbyjamiekennedy.com/">Jamie Kennedy</a>! The winter menu was divine with amazing preparation of the pork. A MUST-TRY are his famous french fries. Delightful! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hQr3xyQZ4oXgSHzmtyVMkWLk6dxsdR5GLdwiQldtAn8737HWK6NLAXiJs2eR5WQUkMjS6N5FeHEE5_lQ2rNGtm62JwozuMpzidHA7zsasGQrkJy0SDxsGiAB_UL_hP31HINGyZVjoRvk/s1600/windowsbyjamiekennedy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hQr3xyQZ4oXgSHzmtyVMkWLk6dxsdR5GLdwiQldtAn8737HWK6NLAXiJs2eR5WQUkMjS6N5FeHEE5_lQ2rNGtm62JwozuMpzidHA7zsasGQrkJy0SDxsGiAB_UL_hP31HINGyZVjoRvk/s400/windowsbyjamiekennedy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here I am in all of my over-exposed glory - The man refuses to take more than one photo in public - so it's one and that's all I get! I have a nose, I swear! ;) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNczxPX6AhYlhiL3N42chFB08vdpVXd9Fn61gcRcAm8ZG6dMiXGfiv12Sc5jX6g2n_o2PlFQuSXVVU0CvEUUKCHxOT7v7iU6ZyZruaRflVvsXP_DNXZoz0YwESaTqvtp8TbwLicztpIaC/s1600/niagarafallsfromroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNczxPX6AhYlhiL3N42chFB08vdpVXd9Fn61gcRcAm8ZG6dMiXGfiv12Sc5jX6g2n_o2PlFQuSXVVU0CvEUUKCHxOT7v7iU6ZyZruaRflVvsXP_DNXZoz0YwESaTqvtp8TbwLicztpIaC/s640/niagarafallsfromroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also took an early morning photo without any cars to enjoy the falls in it's powerful abundance of crashing waters. So magnificent! </div>
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<a href="http://www.nearof.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/0214-cinnahearts-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.nearof.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/0214-cinnahearts-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.nearof.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/0214-cinnahearts-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://www.nearof.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/0214-cinnahearts-01.jpg" width="640" /></a>Our unconventional relationship obviously worked out, because here we are - married and with a little girl who partied her "friendship" day to it's fullest. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCe0cxu5gCQvAYaP-j8J1ZQvEf2Ta77MKRqfYX5FMnqt3sfR53rgI3qFrWBrLiOHU8OqP_cESiPVytAbaZQDz6CX8tIVha29Z1_c-7e_NturYi-1Sf7qkRqDdtt7f7KXKz9Aqj7zb92TV/s1600/EdieValentinessleeping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCe0cxu5gCQvAYaP-j8J1ZQvEf2Ta77MKRqfYX5FMnqt3sfR53rgI3qFrWBrLiOHU8OqP_cESiPVytAbaZQDz6CX8tIVha29Z1_c-7e_NturYi-1Sf7qkRqDdtt7f7KXKz9Aqj7zb92TV/s200/EdieValentinessleeping.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I was also blessed with some really sweet Valentine's day cards that were decorated to the nines in stickers :) </div>
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My sweet addiction to cinnamon tasting everything might have me at my weakest this week. I may have to grab a small bag of cinnamon hearts even though I have cut out sugar from my life. Maybe I can make it our last official break-up fling before properly quitting it ;)</div>
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<a href="http://www.magicnorm.com/kids%20laughing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://www.magicnorm.com/kids%20laughing.jpg" width="320" /></a>Apparently anything cinnamon tasting in candy form is considered "Joke-candy" in Norway. It was so hard to find proper Valentine candies when I lived there or anything cinnamon-ish. Basically we get our Valentine treats from England because the queen loved the cinnamon flavoured treats, they were brought over to Canada (North America) </div>
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I write cinnamon... a lot! It's a cinnasin! Oh dear.</div>
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This post is obviously going nowhere - but I wanted to wish you all the most loveliest of V-days and if you're a singleton I raise my glass to you, sweethearts! ;) (But not over my <a href="http://ellehermansen.blogspot.ca/2009/10/dear-mr-dell-dont-die.html">laptop</a>, like last time ;)</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-60078419972138979962013-02-06T11:01:00.001-05:002013-02-06T11:12:13.728-05:00King Richard III: Facial Reconstruction and Who I Think He Was! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/news/world/2013/02/05/facial_reconstruction_of_king_richard_iii_revealed/king_richard_iii.jpg.size.xxlarge.promo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/news/world/2013/02/05/facial_reconstruction_of_king_richard_iii_revealed/king_richard_iii.jpg.size.xxlarge.promo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After the discovery and announcement of King Richard III's body the other day, I couldn't help but get more involved in his story!<br />
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I found this King Richard III facial reconstruction video. Watching his face come to life really made him look like quite a kind man. Maybe history wrote him an awful man because they were jealous of his lovely looks ;)<br />
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I honestly feel that this King had a great heart, and that there was some sort of propaganda by the tutors after he had passed to sort of rewrite his history - because he was King at quite a young age and was hated for that. He was actually quite involved with the "commoners" and made changes so that poor people could also be heard in court hearings - even though they didn't have the money to back them. I want to read more about this King, but from someone who isn't swayed either way. If only I could call on my past lifes ;) <br />
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<a href="http://www.nndb.com/people/618/000022552/walken-hs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.nndb.com/people/618/000022552/walken-hs.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/thumb/msid-18334146,width-300,resizemode-4/Experts-find-remains-of-Englands-King-Richard-III.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/thumb/msid-18334146,width-300,resizemode-4/Experts-find-remains-of-Englands-King-Richard-III.jpg" width="160" /></a>The similarities of him in this one painting to the right, and of Christopher Walken (left) are uncanny! It could totally be his <span class="st">doppelgänger</span>! Wouldn't you agree?<br />
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Richard III obviously had swag, and everyone else around him couldn't handle it.<br />
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<a href="http://0.tqn.com/d/womenshistory/1/0/E/p/2/Anne-of-Warwick-Richard-III.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://0.tqn.com/d/womenshistory/1/0/E/p/2/Anne-of-Warwick-Richard-III.jpg" width="233" /></a>I don't think the King would have poisoned his wife, Anne neither - if anything I feel she might have poisoned herself out of depression. This was also her second marriage. <br />
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These are my thoughts and as outrageous as they are - I feel compelled to know a little more about King Richard III.<br />
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It's truly exciting that they found his remains and to sort of bring his legacy back to life again :) <br />
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Enjoy this video of how they reconstructed the young King's face, below! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-3281598076623965402013-02-01T09:10:00.003-05:002013-02-01T09:11:09.593-05:00Church Sells Silence CD! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/01/27/article-2269026-17314084000005DC-58_634x632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="636" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/01/27/article-2269026-17314084000005DC-58_634x632.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This 800 year old church in England is the next big recording star to hit the big time! What is it offering? 28 minutes of silence. This gem is being sold out quicker than they can keep up with! Pretty amazing! I actually want to buy a copy, because there is something to be said about the calmness of chapel quietness.
Hear (or not) and read more about it <a href="http://www.3news.co.nz/Church-sells-silence-CD/tabid/313/articleID/285311/Default.aspx">here</a>. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-46418879736517445832013-01-19T00:51:00.002-05:002013-02-06T22:28:08.199-05:00Family Of The Year: Hero<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every time I hear this track on CBC Radio 2. I can't stop singing it, while prancing around like a total lush at work. If anyone could see me from outside (which they probably do) or my boss who has zero idea I am doing this. This is a "hold your chest so your heart doesn't burst" kind of love connection.<br />
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This track is special, and I adore this live recording so much I thought I would share it with you all!<br />
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This Californian band is finally getting the credit they deserve! <br />
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Enjoy :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-20382413393670227742013-01-09T09:57:00.002-05:002013-01-09T09:59:18.694-05:00Giant Squid Caught on Tape for First Time for Discovery Channel's 'Monster Squid: The Giant Is Real'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1x6rH2S2flVnXCgdcJfMI_tthIgWAkRqf0xXysL9KQSzwedPRVYHlJaZy86GsnnkxqIJBQqrW8NKuJRJOS0ZBXU2h1rBcT5TC7x0MYU_zr82sZfJ0uWXGDwntJTBzkOLv56sLsrxqTxkC/s1600/Giant_squid_catalina2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1x6rH2S2flVnXCgdcJfMI_tthIgWAkRqf0xXysL9KQSzwedPRVYHlJaZy86GsnnkxqIJBQqrW8NKuJRJOS0ZBXU2h1rBcT5TC7x0MYU_zr82sZfJ0uWXGDwntJTBzkOLv56sLsrxqTxkC/s640/Giant_squid_catalina2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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AMAZING! I cannot wait to see this! ABC and Discovery released this little teaser of a rare video capture of a Giant Squid. <br />
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Enjoy! :)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1KN5N1QDaRQ" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rUqlMgtPn9sM66dw3G8mO79NgLI6peJDTgjn_cEbo5y20PNA_2CidiZ6JBYncwec55vPqZXDkx-MJ59RSV7aKbMtOLSrndrM3TY9Zr4GDlz2q7raELpF4FLglhUBoj6H-UelsKwpWAXR/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-31709900271733167902013-01-01T19:48:00.000-05:002013-01-01T19:50:06.042-05:00Happy New Year! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgjAhhoFWYeDbQdd2h6D6FB8WsB2S14rmOPdvXhEex6P-8YYNdcRRHSSupFOjODJWb8sorxdD_S_YhpJO_TW975QHZKSIzunHUlw_b3iVstZgl9asboFpJVuo8btvL_AfeK2X1GTFy6yV/s1600/happynewyearelle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgjAhhoFWYeDbQdd2h6D6FB8WsB2S14rmOPdvXhEex6P-8YYNdcRRHSSupFOjODJWb8sorxdD_S_YhpJO_TW975QHZKSIzunHUlw_b3iVstZgl9asboFpJVuo8btvL_AfeK2X1GTFy6yV/s640/happynewyearelle.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf2ne4VpRsQjQsJ453LgDTnbKH_QcuXvBW2PUDvzaijoF5gONGQ84LNlRIRK1tPHXf1ltQhhGkdpn92X2GCmeYSO2baSiM_8JM-bNQ1MEmRrSjv8V4D3WwRj4U4ggH60-o_a-VMgBgb7vf/s1600/happynewyearloveelle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf2ne4VpRsQjQsJ453LgDTnbKH_QcuXvBW2PUDvzaijoF5gONGQ84LNlRIRK1tPHXf1ltQhhGkdpn92X2GCmeYSO2baSiM_8JM-bNQ1MEmRrSjv8V4D3WwRj4U4ggH60-o_a-VMgBgb7vf/s640/happynewyearloveelle.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
2013 is going to be a great year! Apparently I didn't take note to know the difference between one and plural year(s) while scribbling my chicken scratches! ;) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGg2bx-z4eCd_TDXLtwMlecmBa2FgxlEj5YjguSGWH14HaAfvtxBb8tPXDg6tsVxgklXmk0a67bebysvUp-S6dMmoQJ9_o8Q0W2_BnRUDwmQOHG3_HaJIiiUjSs2UlxVpm-ps6HvZh-Ud3/s1600/small_signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00033455373276187590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-454263557420626039.post-39820422511144173732012-12-30T22:13:00.001-05:002012-12-30T22:15:13.993-05:00Christmas Cheer! (A few days late ;) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVyc30uOpENEOpAzXK-l-5IkGm1LjFNqMtMjXBi8Y-twS_pgKQePGxoaKvBwg3y4PrKFU2jJjCRaG3NoWnpVTJHaRl_YeT04rsyUI18ofL0Bxm6AHvJ5tGpLG0TmCgxwSwPUgNPMXalCU/s1600/IMG_6093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVyc30uOpENEOpAzXK-l-5IkGm1LjFNqMtMjXBi8Y-twS_pgKQePGxoaKvBwg3y4PrKFU2jJjCRaG3NoWnpVTJHaRl_YeT04rsyUI18ofL0Bxm6AHvJ5tGpLG0TmCgxwSwPUgNPMXalCU/s640/IMG_6093.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My goodness! I am embarrassingly late at writing another post! I am going to try much harder in 2013 by blogging a little bit more.<br />
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It's been quite busy with a little one, and by the time you're done with your day - you just want to enjoy it alone, huddled up by the fire place, under a blanket playing on the iPad and wondering where the day went :) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10rMOuvck9ufbX9bM7lxjH-gfRM8dr8giGFhyphenhyphenssQLbakdiUbqcZPE3MMx-SzHxNUrd3buuFuxS3wtasNpKTYk084-JNy1AvB75w0AGd2FwhAYSrbyGFZ4KurzPcFeWkBCyHlGQrjMJhpt/s1600/IMG_6087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10rMOuvck9ufbX9bM7lxjH-gfRM8dr8giGFhyphenhyphenssQLbakdiUbqcZPE3MMx-SzHxNUrd3buuFuxS3wtasNpKTYk084-JNy1AvB75w0AGd2FwhAYSrbyGFZ4KurzPcFeWkBCyHlGQrjMJhpt/s640/IMG_6087.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I'll post some holiday photos that I never had a chance to post of little decorated areas around my house. Here are my little Alessi Christmas characters (above) and my Alessi Nativity Scene! (below)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgZlw1jiaAJn5OoKjsWXxcl3_B0bKbqkzgZkrizRZh-dKuKHKLtsuvZ5tSbUOL5dhpoxS3QtdHpZ4HBPAgD0qjl0pPOcQExuBHthVin3nOPNmgJwKBHmLGEW2UssQ_9JAcyb1n6oF8xVu/s1600/IMG_6090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgZlw1jiaAJn5OoKjsWXxcl3_B0bKbqkzgZkrizRZh-dKuKHKLtsuvZ5tSbUOL5dhpoxS3QtdHpZ4HBPAgD0qjl0pPOcQExuBHthVin3nOPNmgJwKBHmLGEW2UssQ_9JAcyb1n6oF8xVu/s640/IMG_6090.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFr0sEqOYHnFA7AumVroMoXXXJclIUkN9QHWZ51Tv42HmQTuQxkuGBUE9w3Lr3p-MTMywEceew5Y2Yn_2fEEtEfLZ36aIl81twOUdNSC48dceKvG8rjK5gJyOiPStcSKmPP5cRrTyPMH__/s1600/kellymurrayantergirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFr0sEqOYHnFA7AumVroMoXXXJclIUkN9QHWZ51Tv42HmQTuQxkuGBUE9w3Lr3p-MTMywEceew5Y2Yn_2fEEtEfLZ36aIl81twOUdNSC48dceKvG8rjK5gJyOiPStcSKmPP5cRrTyPMH__/s400/kellymurrayantergirl.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
This next photo I finally hunted down a proper sized frame for. The original photo (above) spoke volumes to me, that I contacted artist <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/KelliMurrayArt?ref=seller_info">Kelli Murray</a> to customize her work to look more like me - and she did an amazing job! I love it so much! <br />
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These Christmas boxes below, I used to put Edie's Christmas calender gifts in. She was so excited to wake up every morning to see which box I would pull out to reveal a little surprise. :) <br />
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As you can tell I love deer, and I have to personally thank my mom for also spraying these white, and making these wicked vintage looking trees! She's so damn talented! Thanks mom! <br />
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Did you all have a good Christmas? Was Santa good to you? How will you be ringing in the New Year?<br />
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