Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Art I Heart

Stripes, dots, strawberries, and spots — I love them all! 
A few colorful prints to remind you to make time to play and inspire you to do something colorful with this day.

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Monday, July 29, 2013

Life's Little Details

Here's a glimpse of what's been going on around Lil' Puna lately...
"The details are not the details. They make the design." — Charles Eames
Hap-Hap-Happy Monday, m' dears! How goes it? All is swell on Lil' Puna. I had an awfully relaxing weekend; however, I have a terrible confession to share with you. I didn't make it to the beach. Oh, the horror! With two months left, I realized on Sunday afternoon — as I was washing the car no less — that I have to lay down the law and ensure we're seaside at least once each weekend until we leave. It just seems like a no-brainer. Come October, I know I'm going to miss those days more than anything else! Now, I must admit that this past weekend wasn't a complete wash because I dominated my to-do list, and I managed to visit one of my favorite little boutiques in the heart of Honolulu called Owens & Co and then skipped on over to Target for some mindless browsing and a much-needed Caramel Macchiato. I mean, what's a girl to do when her wingman is MIA and she's got to find a way to keep busy?

A few insta-update notes...
  • Hump-Day Hues // A few Wednesdays ago I realized that a pop of hot pink seems to solve everything.
  • Closet Confessions // It's a bit alarming how much clothing I've accrued (or ac-Crew-ed, wink, wink) since we moved to Hawaii. In my defense, our closets are rather small, and it's hard to cram everything in there. In an effort to prep for the upcoming move and clear my mind, I sorted through my closet and stored pieces I don't currently wear in Space Bags. These sorts of organizational tasks are so relaxing to me. It's my idea of a peaceful afternoon. Serenity now... insanity later!
  • Double Up // I'll be honest, I still haven't gotten the hang of layering necklaces. I see other people do it, and it looks terrific. I try it, look in the mirror, and feel silly. I realized recently that the Crystal Venus Flytrap Necklace is the best way to ease into piling it on. It's probably one of my favorite necklaces.
  • Lovely Loot // I received these adorable bookends from my mom, and I managed to score some seriously sweet Rifle Paper Co. stationery and colorful writing utensils from Target to get all creative.
  • A Room with a View // Why does it take me two years to REALLY appreciate the view from Lil' Puna? Don't get me wrong, I've enjoyed it, but it means so much more to me now that our days are numbered.
  • A Spot of Tea // Prince George's arrival was enough of a reason to finally use these precious tea bags.
  • A Sweet Message // After catching up with my dad, I woke up the next morning to a text that warmed my heart. There are really no words to express just how much I love and adore that man.
  • Queen B // Beesly is probably the sweetest and most patient dog ever. I'm sure you feel the same way about your pet(s), but I love that she'll play dress up with me whenever Flyboy's away.
  • Tedious Tasks // Boring to-dos like grocery shopping are better when there are ribbons of caramel in your iced coffee drink, and when you roll up to your car and discover another Jetta has parked next to you. Um, did we just become best friends? It's like a subtle wink or nod that we're BFFs.
  • I'm Flossie // There's a tropical storm headed toward Hawaii, and she goes by Flossie. Of course, this made me want to unleash my inner Kelis and replace bossy with Flossie. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to come up with any other witty lyrics, besides "I'm Flossie", but I did stock the house with batteries, water, candles, and granola bars, just in case we have to hunker down. In the event the storm hits and the power goes out, coming up with alternative lyrics will be priority number one. I promise!

I hope you had a fabulous weekend. What's made you grin from ear to ear lately?

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Friday, July 26, 2013

Lurve Loave Luff


Let's get right to it, shall we?
Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.
Cheers to a snazzy weekend! Make it count.
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Thursday, July 25, 2013

Thursday's Thoughts

It's no secret that I'm OBSESSED with the show, Big Brother. Each summer, my family and I look forward to seeing Julie Chen greet the unruly house guests on a weekly basis as they battle it out for the coveted role as Head of Household. It's especially fun to pick the players apart and predict which one will play the best social, physical, and mental game. After watching the show devotedly for years, I sometimes think about what it would be like to compete. As a non-athlete, I probably wouldn't rely on my physical game. It would be laughable! The mental portion could go either way (I'd like to think I'm a smart cookie), but I get easily frazzled when I'm under pressure and I absolutely HATE puzzles. I guess that means I'd have to rely on my social game, which makes me chuckle a tad. I can be overly awkward around new people, but I'm sure they'd grow to love me as we'd be confined to the Big Brother House 24/7. In the event that I won HoH, I thought about what I'd request in my basket. Here's what made the list...

Ashley's HoH Basket Booty:
  • Mrs. Meyer's Lemon Verbena Counter Spray // I would totally cash in on my love for cleaning in hopes the house guests might keep me around. Naturally, I need my favorite cleaning products!
  • Striped Straws // Fact: The party doesn't start unless there are striped straws.
  • Boom Chick A Pop // Because snacking is aplenty in the BB Household, it might be nice to mindlessly nosh on something that's low in calories.
  • Oscar Blandi Dry Shampoo // All of those crazy competitions would take a toll on my hair color, so I'd try to wash it as little as possible. Of course, I'd need as much of this as possible!
  • Hendrick's Gin & a Lemon // There's nothing like a little social lubricant to put Awkward Ashley at ease.
  • Mike & Ike Candy // It's my favorite non-chocolate candy. I'd plan to eat these while the other house guests aren't around. I'm not big on sharing candy! Just ask Flyboy or my sister, Aubrey.
  • Mixed CD // One of the perks to winning HoH is listening to music of your choice. You can bet my selection would be abnormal with artists ranging from George Strait to Biggie Smalls.
  • Smith's Rosebud Salve // Love this stuff! It can be used for almost anything.
  • Illume Body Butter in Thai Lily // It might be nice to get away from the crazy and pamper myself.
  • Essie Polish // I'd take any new shade! I'm sure the other house guests wouldn't mind a mani/pedi.
  • Washi Tape // Lord knows I'll be going through withdrawal, and you never know how it might come in handy around the BB House. Not to mention, it might be a great opportunity to introduce the wonders of Washi to my house mates. They'll thank me later!
  • San Pellegrino Limonata // Because I'll need something fizzy to mix with m' Gin.
  • Party Time Headband // To wear while imbibing. 
  • Framed Photos // Time away from family is always a bit rough, so these will serve as the perfect pick-me-up (frame sources here and here, family members are my own).   

    Do you watch Big Brother? What would you request in your HoH Basket?
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Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Art I Heart

In a midweek slump? I've got five artists whose work will make you flip!
  1. Xochi Solis // I Was Supposed to be Having the Time of My Life, 2011
  2. Kelly Reemsten // Green with Envy, 2010
  3. Chad Wys // Absent 17, 2011
  4. Jaime Derringer // The Thief of Joy, 2013
  5. Anthony Zinonos // Thoughts, 2009 

Arranging images for today's post has been an absolute bright spot to my week. 
I can't help but feed off of the creative energy that radiates from each of these spectacular artists.
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Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Hip Hip Hooray!

The Kate wait is over, so naturally I felt it was necessary to shower the future king with the most brilliant of gifts.

Wild Things Crown // He ought to get used to wearing one and soon.
Vintage Pedal Plane // To follow in his father's footsteps.
Leather Moccasins // Because we all know how much his 'mum' loves Zara.
Silver Rattle // A shiny and luxurious nursery necessity.
London Print // A print devoted to the city he'll grow to adore.
Heart Pin // With parents like his, he will undoubtedly be loved.
London Bus // It's a symbol of London. Of course, he needs one!
Rain Jacket // A slicker to stay dry on those rainy days in England.
Soccer Ball // Because he'll be kicking it with the Beckhams in no time.
Hunter Wellies // He'll need a pair to match his parents. A-dorable!
Cashmere Stripe Blanket // This royal baby NEEDS to be swaddled in something heavenly.
Bow Tie // This will make him look as dashing as his Uncle Harry.
Dual Match Polo Shirt // If he's going to frequent matches, he might as well look the part.
Steiff Stuffed Horse // For the future king to play with at the polo tournament.
Classic Pram // His Royal Highness deserves to be pushed around in the poshest of prams.

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Monday, July 22, 2013

Monday Moodboard

Happy Monday, sweet readers! I created today's post with the intent to surround myself with as much happy as humanly possible. I guess that's kind of the point of this little ol' blog, and it's also one of the main reasons many of you stop by devotedly. So why is it that I feel the need to reiterate this, you ask? Well, when I started blogging, I posted for ME. I like to think that's the way it should be; however, after awhile a little community started to form and it's been bloggie bliss. As a result, I also blog with YOU in mind. Your kindness and support mean so much to me; it's the very least I could do! As a group of like-minded people, it never feels like a chore. Chances are, we're all smitten with the same artist and we're drooling over the same chocolate-peanut butter delicacy or handbag.

One of the reasons I hesitated to create a blog for so long dealt mainly with the fact that putting yourself out there isn't easy. Once you hit the magic publish button, your work is out there for others to dissect and judge. While this feeling is valid, it's not enough of a reason to NEVER take the plunge and go for something. Overall, I've received a warm and cheerful welcoming in the blogosphere, but that doesn't mean that there hasn't been criticism over the past two years. As someone who'd like to believe she's tough like a little Bulldog (think Caroline Manzo on RHONJ), I'm more of a tender heart than I'd like to admit. On Saturday morning, I was reminded of my sensitive side when I woke up and read an email with 'feedback' I just couldn't shake off. I wish I could describe myself as thick-skinned; however, the individual's two-cents really got to me. It was enough to ruin my entire day. I know that sounds dramatic, but just when I thought I was over it, the idea of someone emailing me like this got me riled up once more. Who does that? This is my little corner of happy. When I say "Hello, Sunshine!", I mean it. I would never try to steal someone else's joy at the expense of giving my own aesthetic input regarding blog design and layout.

The beautiful thing about the blogosphere is that there are a gazillion other blogs you can visit to satisfy your aesthetic, interests, and viewpoints. If pom-pom trim and stationery aren't quite your thing, I get it. A splash of hot pink and a crystal-encrusted collar aren't for everyone. You do you. Around here, I get to wear my Washi tape crown and sprinkle stripes and polka-dots wherever my heart desires. That's the very reason I call it One Fine Day.

How about a little visual sunshine to help set the tone for the week?
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Friday, July 19, 2013

Lurve Loave Luff


Let's get right to it, shall we?
Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.
  • Diana Vreeland by Richard Avedon // Although it was exciting to start blogging again, I have to admit that I needed a little help in the inspiration department. When I felt stuck, I turned to my favorites. Of course that meant images and quotes of DV herself. She epitomizes fabulosity!
  • Salted Caramel Treats // What the what? These little squares of heaven look incredible.
  • Washi Inspiration // I never thought it was possible to find such delight in colorful strips of tape. Tape!!
  • Crystal Shimmer Earrings // What's not to love?! I passed on a similar pair of earrings last year and I've regretted it ever since. I'm certain these need to be mine.
  • Cooper Beryl Green Strap Watch // When it comes to this ticker, I'm SO green with envy!
  • Panama Hat & Sunnies Print // The perfect pair of summer accessories in a charming watercolor print.
  • Hello? iPhone Case // Over the past few months, my phone case has taken a beating. I'm in the market for something new; however, it's not easy to find a case for the iPhone 4/4s. What's up with that? Sarah's designs are beckoning, but it's slightly hard to make a decision. They're all so cute!
  • La Jolla Triangle Basket // As if I really needed another tote or bag, I could see this one at a beach in Hawaii or running errands in Swell Rio. The yarn tassel sweetens the deal.
  • Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner // I finally found an eyeliner that I feel comfortable using and that I can't mess up. I totally understand why this is a bestseller. I just don't know why it took me so long to add it to my makeup bag. Try it! I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
  • Kale Walnut Pesto // This recipe sounds divine; I can't wait to try it! I'm also Love & Lemons new biggest fan. The design is flawless. It's been awhile since I stumbled upon a blog that made me this excited!
  • Cubist Retro Modern Wall Clock // Ever since I saw this featured in Matchbook's July issue, I can't stop thinking about it. The color makes me drool, and I can already see it in our kitchen.
  • Jorey Hurley's Dot Meditation // I could stare at this little illustration for hours. The dots make me happy!
  • Daily Metaltations by Stephen Powers // I'm hooked on these incredible signs. Check out Steve's work.
  • Mr. Finch by Emma Gale // I hate birds, but I could warm up to this colorful fella.
  • Do What Matters Print // A beautiful reminder to focus on what's important in life.
  • Red Heart Tee // A playful and quirky tee that I believe was created for The Love List. Who's with me?
  • Kindness is Fashionable // Emily's designs are beautifully created. I'm constantly inspired by her talent. Somehow, the quotes she chooses to share each week always hit so close to home.

Cheers to a snazzy weekend ahead! Make this one count, my friends.
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Thursday, July 18, 2013

Thursday's Thoughts

"To send a letter is a good way to go somewhere without moving anything but your heart." — Phyllis Theroux
FEELING: Between sporadic work schedules and family members time zones apart, I feel somewhat out of touch this week. I haven't talked to my parents and sister in days, and Flyboy's been working the evening shift. I miss my people, and I can't wait until we're all back to our regular routines.

READING: I bought a boat load of glossies before my in-laws visited, and there's one particular magazine I just can't bring myself to read and it's Vanity Fair's July issue. I have nothing against the publication. In fact, I usually look forward to reading it each month. I guess I just can't get past the scenario I associate with purchasing the magazine. You see, I stood in line at Barnes & Noble with approximately five different titles and Vanity Fair was placed on top. The line to the cash register was a bit long, and as I waited for my turn, the gentleman behind me made eye contact with me and asked loudly if I was a Channing Tatum fan. He also said, "I bet you liked that Magic Mike film!" I looked down at my stack of zines and saw a hunky Tatum on the cover. Since when did VF become Beefcake Monthly? Oy! I was actually looking forward to Pippa Middleton's column, and Channing Tatum is SO not my type of celebrity crush. I haven't even seen that movie! You have to understand that I ABHOR this kind of public attention. There were about a dozen people in line and they all started to laugh. I blushed as though I was guilty and got all flustered. It was ridiculously awkward and embarrassing, and I couldn't wait for the cashier to say "next in line." As a result, this issue of VF has remained untouched and buried underneath a stack of old magazines. 

LISTENING TO: This past Sunday, I was talking to my mom and she was raving about her Matchstick Jeans from J.Crew. She was getting her nails done and a stranger commented on her denim duds. It took me awhile to convince my mom to try this particular style of jeans, and now she's a devoted fan. Anywho, my mom proceeded to tell the stranger about her jeans and the woman commented that she didn't think she could wear them because of her flat derriere. My mom insists that she, herself, has a flat backside, but the lady couldn't tell because of the Matchstick Jeans. My mom was incredibly flattered that the woman thought she had some junk in her trunk. Naturally, I asked the following: "Did you turn around, stick it out, show the world you got a Bubble Butt?" I didn't really expect her to get the reference and this sort of meaningless Gilmore Girl commentary is quite normal in our conversations; however, this terribly catchy song has been stuck in my head all week long. I can't say I'm proud to share this song selection with you, but it's quite the ear worm. And honestly, it's just kind of fun to say Bubble Butt.

THANKFUL FOR: There's nothing quite like a piece of snail mail from a dear friend or family member to serve as the perfect pick-me-up. This week, I was so grateful to open our mailbox and find a few little envelopes addressed to moi. Naturally, it was a great reason to visit Snail Mail Station and sit down at my desk to return the favor.

THINKING ABOUT: As the move to Texas gets closer, the reality of selling our Jetta (aka The Black Flash) is starting to set in. I can't help but feel a little emotional because we bought this car days before we got married. It's been with us our entire married life — that's over five years!!! We drove it to Denver on our honeymoon. It was with us when we made our trek to Texas for Flyboy's first assignment. Despite the tight squeeze, I still see Tripp and Beesly snuggled up in the back seat. It's been such a great car, and the idea of parting with it gets me all choked up. I know it's the right thing for us to do and it's time to move on to something else, but it's been a constant that we could always rely on to make somewhere feel like home. While I hate to put such emphasis on material "things", I think anyone in the military would agree that it's your household goods or your vehicle that make you feel settled. All of this change is going to lead to other great adventures, but that doesn't mean it's not a lot for ol' Rain Man (that's me) to digest. I've got a few more months to give The Black Flash the attention she deserves, so I'll continue to make her exterior shine and belt obscene and silly lyrics at the top of my lungs. It only seems fair...

EATING: Flyboy recently brought home some Bison Chili from Whole Foods, and I couldn't stop thinking about how tasty it was. Naturally, I was eager to recreate the recipe, so I picked up a pound of ground bison meat and incorporated it into my FAVORITE chili recipe from Dinner: A Love Story. I realize it's a bit toasty for chili, but the flavor of the bison was just so delicious, I had to try it!

WATCHING: A few months ago, I got sucked into a black hole known as The Bachelorette. I blame Flyboy's absence and a lack of quality summer TV shows, but I'm embarrassed to say that I'm hooked this season. I think Desiree is an incredibly sweet girl, but I have this odd feeling she won't pick the guy I wish she would. Does anyone else watch? It's silly, but I'm crazy for Chris. I think he's a genuinely great guy, but something in my gut tells me it's not going to happen. The fact that he can compose poems without coming across as creepy is deserving of the final rose.

LOOKING FORWARD TO: This week has felt like FOREVER. Maybe that's because it's my first full week back at work and blogging since vacation, but I'm so ready for the weekend. I think I deserve an Iced Caramel Macchiato and some quality time in the sand. Hopefully, Flyboy will be around to join me. If not, I always have the company of Vanity Fair and my boy, Channing. Ha Ha!

LOVING: I've wasted a lot of money on lipstick and lip gloss over the past few months, and I'm happy to say that I finally found a great nude/pink that's suitable for an everyday natural look. I'm obsessed with Bobbi Brown's Sheer Lip Color in Tutu. It's moisturizing and provides just the right amount of color that lasts for hours. The best part? You don't have to worry about feathering or the dreadful lipstick on teeth. I'm hooked!

What about you? How are you feeling today? What are you up to?
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Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Summer Accessories

Happy Wednesday, sweet readers! I'm so excited to collaborate with this fabulous group of bloggers. Each month, you can look forward to a post in which we all weigh in with our latest finds, tips, and tricks. For our first post, we thought we'd share our favorite summer accessories. See what made the list! You won't be disappointed.

  1. Laura of Beauty & The Beard // My favorite summer accessory is this over-the-top coral flower necklace! I feel like it goes with everything, and it's so dang bright you can't be unhappy wearing it!!
  2. Ashley of One Fine Day // For an instant splash of cheer and color, you'll find me sporting my go-to accessory, ban.do's Pom-Pom Flower Pin in Hot Pink. I attach them to my t-shirts, button downs, cardigans, blazers, etc. They also look adorable pinned to your favorite clutch or tote. It's a no-brainer!
  3. Lauren of La Petite Fashionista // I love an ultra-colorful statement necklace to pair with all of my favorite white summer dresses.
  4. Samantha of The Brunette One // Summer in the Midwest often means scorching hot temperatures. I usually reach for a breezy slip dress and the simplest of accessories. This gold bangle goes with everything!
  5. Katherine of The Duchess of Plumewood // I'm so pale that I need a hat to cover my face in addition to sunscreen! Besides, how could you resist a classic accessory like a Panama Hat? You can't really go wrong with an accessory worn by kings, presidents, and my personal favorite, Winston Churchill!

What's your go-to summer accessory?
P.S. Are you a blogger interested in joining the fun? Email me. The more the merrier!
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Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Shop Spotlight


You can only imagine after two weeks without blogging, my brain is exploding with things that I've been itching to share with you. I believe that's the sweet thing we've got going on at One Fine Day. It's the kind of bond that makes me giddy to share new shops, artists, articles, etc. When I sat down to prioritize upcoming blog posts, I knew this one topped the list. Please tell me your interest was piqued the moment you saw the punchy threads and shiny stones. These beautimous bracelets can be found at Ana Karolina, an online shop created by Ana Carolina, an 18-year-old designer and entrepreneur. Her collection includes headpieces, necklaces, and bracelets, which are hand crafted using flowers, fabric, Swarovski crystals, and gemstones. I'm certain I need to add one of Ana's pieces to my growing jewelry collection. The hardest part would be deciding which one to choose. They're all so fabulous!

Check out Ana's collection and share your favorite(s)! I'm a big fan of the Amiga and Bikini and Sand bracelets.
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Monday, July 15, 2013

Life's Little Details

Souvenirs from our trip to Maui.
Aloha! Howdy! Happy Monday! I missed you! I think that about sums it all up. When I last posted TWO weeks ago, I never envisioned these past 14 days would unravel as they did. I had only planned on taking a bloggie vacay for ten days tops. In fact, I had great hopes to post last Monday and brag (kindly and excitedly) about our trip to the Valley Isle. Unfortunately, I managed to get the flu on the first night. Can I get a giant womp womp?! Besides the occasional migraine, I NEVER get sick. Much to my dismay, it took me a week to bounce back to my regular Type-A self. I felt pathetic, and I may have been guilty of throwing a toddler-like tantrum in the hotel room because I couldn't believe this was happening. I was stuck in bed playing Candy Crush, noshing on Tums, and the only cocktail I was sipping was Pepto-Bismol and Sprite. Flyboy and my in-laws were gracious and rolled with this minor snafu. 

Although it wasn't quite like I'd imagined a few months ago, I'm certain we must go back before we move. The time spent in Maui was amazing! It's absolutely gorgeous, and it was fun to feel like a tourist. I felt so relaxed and giddy; it was the kind of getaway you dream of. On a daily basis, I meet people who are so ecstatic to visit Hawaii. Their joy is genuine and contagious. For a lot of people, this is a trip of a lifetime, and I kind of forget that! As awful as it sounds, it's quite easy to get jaded when you live here. In fact, tourists can be irritating and many of us will do anything to avoid Waikiki. With an imminent move in our future (Hello, October!), it's become more evident than ever that we need to appreciate this blessing in its entirety. The trip couldn't have come at a better time because it was a wonderful reminder that there's been a lot of joy in this Hawaiian journey — it's just a matter of acknowledging it and being grateful. Our time is limited and the moving to-do list is starting to get rather lengthy. Whenever it gets a little overwhelming, I plan on revisiting the photos from our trip to Maui. I hope they serve as a reminder to embrace these last months with the same kind of zeal and affection as any tourist might. If you're interested in some of the little moments I captured, then buckle up buttercup and prepare yourself for all sorts of touristy shenanigans ahead.
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Monday, July 1, 2013

Blogcation

Aloha Maui: Pineapple // Panama Hat // Swimsuit // Fruity Drink // Lobster iPhone Case // Beach Tote //
Sea Salt Spray // Sun Bum SPF // Sunnies // Lip Balm // Beach Towel // Flip Flops // Book // Journal // Essie Clambake
As you've probably already gathered, I'm taking the week off. That's right, it's a bloggie vacation! Can you hear me shouting with excitement from the tiptop of Lil' Puna?! We plan to hop around Oahu and take a quick trip to Maui. There will be all sorts of touristy shenanigans, and I'll probably reek of suntan lotion and Gin. Do me a favor and have a fabulous week! We'll catch up after the 4th of July holiday. Go on and indulge and imbibe m' dears!
P.S. Google Reader is kaput, so don't forget to make the jump to Bloglovin or Feedly!
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