tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90925676653766233962024-02-19T08:52:07.864-05:00The Dirt Diva, her Dynamo, and her trusty SteedRachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.comBlogger899125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-11501733257573958832017-10-30T07:00:00.000-04:002017-10-30T07:00:18.141-04:00Find our soaps locally...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_S5YLzxFzgzQ6vmstnt0qYM8ftajUyZfKT9PTn5M2gsURhHpY0E1DJlCzQo-lspj2Qrqx_iJBUeHttB9xFxkQdDU86_e87xQHkUmDyLQ9Utn4JTIWEUU1Vtrx7atkY-1hG6nq4ANLSk/s1600/thumb_IMG_4789_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_S5YLzxFzgzQ6vmstnt0qYM8ftajUyZfKT9PTn5M2gsURhHpY0E1DJlCzQo-lspj2Qrqx_iJBUeHttB9xFxkQdDU86_e87xQHkUmDyLQ9Utn4JTIWEUU1Vtrx7atkY-1hG6nq4ANLSk/s640/thumb_IMG_4789_1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Our soaps can be found at some local shops in VA. Look for them at Sweet Dixie in Petersburg, Fireflies at Bennetts Creek in Suffolk, and Shirley Plantation in Charles City. Shop local this holiday season!<br />
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<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-22686567808612428152017-10-23T07:00:00.000-04:002017-10-23T07:00:26.796-04:00Pumpkin Spice is oh so nice!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our pumpkin spice sea salt soap bars are made with our traditional recipe, but have pumpkin puree and pink himalayan sea salt. This bar is super exfoliating and full of antioxidant rich pumpkin. It's an all around great bar!<br />
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<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-81473576084426473432017-10-16T21:37:00.002-04:002017-10-16T21:37:18.231-04:00Fun times at Crafted Hampton Roads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We had a great time this past weekend at Crafted Hampton Roads in Norfolk at O'Connor Brewing! Lots of shoppers braved the misty rainy weather to shop with us.<br />
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Our bath bombs have been a customer favorite. We offer several different fragrances.<br />
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If you haven't tried our salt bars you really should! They are exfoliating and great for your skin.<br />
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Our sea sponges seen below are super fun! The extra soft sponges act like a built in poof! These sponges are harvested in the Gulf of Mexico and after cleaning are hand cut.<br />
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<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-83797844976227438792017-04-21T16:28:00.003-04:002017-04-21T16:28:58.304-04:00It's time to Spring Bada-Bing!! See you there!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We are so excited to be a part of Spring Bada-Bing by the Richmond Craft Mafia! Come see us and our amazing soaps at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in RVA, Saturday, April 29, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.<br />
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<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-41402512697172623302017-03-08T17:07:00.001-05:002017-03-08T17:07:44.486-05:00Norfolk....Here we come!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Look for us at the upcoming Spring Crafted event at O'Connor Brewing Co. in Norfolk, VA!! Saturday, April 8, 2017, from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. Find a large selection of our handcrafted vegan artisan soaps along with our bath bombs and bath bubble bars! See you there!Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-56855418902197108032017-01-25T07:00:00.000-05:002017-01-25T07:00:18.381-05:00Won't you be my valentine?Looking for that perfect Valentine's Day gift for that special someone? Who doesn't love a beautiful bar of handmade soap? Check out our beautiful Here's My Heart soaps...<br />
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Find these bars and many more scents at the upcoming <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/921443761290841/" target="_blank">Over the River Maker's Mart Valentine's Vend on Sunday, February 5</a>!!!</div>
<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-23642889822990388312017-01-20T10:20:00.002-05:002017-01-20T10:20:09.892-05:00Valentine's Vend - February 5th!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Daily Scrub is excited to be a part of a great event on February 5, 2017, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The Over the River Maker's Mart will feature local artisans with some pretty amazing items. Find the event at 2620 Buford Road, Richmond, VA 23235! </div>
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Check out all of the great vendors here...</div>
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<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-57167941711858660132016-12-15T09:32:00.002-05:002016-12-15T09:32:36.939-05:00The new look of The Daily Scrub!!!I'm so excited that we have a new look for our shows! Dynamo has been working so hard on designing a new display for us, and it is absolutely beautiful!!<br />
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The natural butcher block tops allow the beautiful colors to shine. The look is industrial in nature, with clean lines allowing the soap to be the centerpiece of the display.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJW3D54kq5CyiViJvexHUHhhd9LD2WMHb_CL6t5T4WggmaH1BKeLzrdEOBFh7Kyx5mrXvDKpJ6DF9vwUAkmDqUpDApOeoQJsK464dlgyOqiAqqdHCgAhe-SmVKRqrAkLADRnAGbzoNHw/s1600/15391227_1462654327081394_2351193656442113096_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJW3D54kq5CyiViJvexHUHhhd9LD2WMHb_CL6t5T4WggmaH1BKeLzrdEOBFh7Kyx5mrXvDKpJ6DF9vwUAkmDqUpDApOeoQJsK464dlgyOqiAqqdHCgAhe-SmVKRqrAkLADRnAGbzoNHw/s640/15391227_1462654327081394_2351193656442113096_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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With multiple tables it allows customers to spread out and shop both sides of the display. When they are ready to checkout they can come to the center table to do so.<br />
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I am so blessed to have such a talented husband with a vision and dedication to our business. I LOVE our new look, don't you?!?!Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-86294251806962179732016-12-08T13:39:00.003-05:002016-12-08T13:39:48.433-05:00Christmas in Smithfield - Come See us!Come out and see us this Saturday, December 10, 2016, at the Evening Christmas Market in Smithfield from 3 - 9 p.m. We will be around 330 Main Street!! We will have lots of soaps to choose from!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbibABmYlCYgD31k5WY5YvOjQZwFuiT8c5FIlF6enWsXXAhTZS8Ezs3YyWOoFNdetPoQowliD18V1q1zq24Yr5YVahOoccHSNsN6nP3cz5rosUrHPcG6coiSgrLn3Sc2bOefrNgSECF4/s1600/soapcollection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbibABmYlCYgD31k5WY5YvOjQZwFuiT8c5FIlF6enWsXXAhTZS8Ezs3YyWOoFNdetPoQowliD18V1q1zq24Yr5YVahOoccHSNsN6nP3cz5rosUrHPcG6coiSgrLn3Sc2bOefrNgSECF4/s640/soapcollection.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-61612254654072668572016-05-11T08:34:00.000-04:002016-05-11T08:34:01.021-04:00Come find The Daily Scrub at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery on May 29!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.hardywood.com/content/spring-yart-sale-hardywood" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7D82H23AMk9mATMu__GP7DTUaA-G9ND6ssNStFRTkZCy5XBDrYj7h6vTo6jvtbIYoCLiSDsevrpm2R1VADo-NJ0paUStPPDElun81jJltYfZyGd6003n4QlhgPMhk3VcCVYUd9uv7wbk/s640/yart.jpg" width="451" /></a></div>
<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-18926868509297036072015-12-04T11:29:00.004-05:002015-12-04T11:29:43.108-05:00Handmade Holiday TomorrowWe are so excited to be participating in the Richmond Craft Mafia's Handmade Holiday event tomorrow, Saturday, December 5, at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in Richmond. Come see us from 10 - 5!<br />
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Many thanks to RVA News for this <a href="http://rvanews.com/features/handmade-holiday-the-daily-scrubs-rachel-chieppa-on-scents-colors-and-crafting-cleanliness/131911" target="_blank">great piece</a> on The Daily Scrub!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7rNCLmqPKU8s6ky-UWhN-uDNG7mGveVh8BzW3sSIrebdl-GbG_rpbLuJvrr6PmTw1ddTT0xWWf4qdm9rY8ITtfQwLrRxxBdxsr0bVsWhBWN4VmkfT7gUzh1cpcqlkH-v1K2-BZtSZSU/s1600/12250168_1147916905221806_3484601587980282084_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7rNCLmqPKU8s6ky-UWhN-uDNG7mGveVh8BzW3sSIrebdl-GbG_rpbLuJvrr6PmTw1ddTT0xWWf4qdm9rY8ITtfQwLrRxxBdxsr0bVsWhBWN4VmkfT7gUzh1cpcqlkH-v1K2-BZtSZSU/s400/12250168_1147916905221806_3484601587980282084_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's the intro written by Susan Howson...<br />
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<div style="-webkit-hyphens: auto; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22.5px; margin-bottom: 20px;">
"Rachel Chieppa found an unexpected outlet for her artistic leanings when her favorite soapmaker showed her the ropes. Now, she’s hooked on the endless possibilities of swirling colors and scents, making something truly unique every single time.</div>
<div style="-webkit-hyphens: auto; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22.5px; margin-bottom: 20px;">
She is so very bubbly and cheerful about soap, that it made me remember how I used to insist on handmade soaps in fun fragrances. It truly does turn each morning shower into something that feels very luxurious and ends up making your skin feel perfectly nice.</div>
<div style="-webkit-hyphens: auto; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22.5px; margin-bottom: 20px;">
Well, dang it, now I’m going to quit and become a soapmaker myself. Here’s what I learned after speaking with Rachel."</div>
<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-39360059126115585182015-11-18T10:19:00.002-05:002015-11-18T10:19:33.063-05:00A Fall Cabin RetreatWe headed out to James River State Park for a little retreat over Halloween weekend!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22456916547/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/588/22456916547_64a7a0743c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22886400451/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/621/22886400451_8773f49548_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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We love the little cabins at the Park and had such a great time last year that we decided to go back again. The first thing we decided to do on Friday was take a hike!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22687350900/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/737/22687350900_cd92a8354b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Charlie was so excited to venture into the woods. He loves to hike on the trails. We hiked to the Tye River Overlook where the Tye and James Rivers meet.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22456995777/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/581/22456995777_e1f0e1e1be_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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We never get tired of this beautiful view!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22254188563/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/696/22254188563_4d35b11f92_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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The scenery is gorgeous!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22886444271/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5670/22886444271_3d412c2f18_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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We attempted a group photo!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22849343166/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/609/22849343166_863f386dc1_z.jpg" width="427" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22456960977/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5734/22456960977_a79f289886_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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It was a beautiful day for being outside! <br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22456975558/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5663/22456975558_7bb1143a09_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Charlie really enjoyed the leaves as he always does!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22886370211/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/709/22886370211_43f42b3d7e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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We hiked over 7 miles that first day and then on the next day we took a little road trip up past Crabtree Falls to hike Spy Rock.<br />
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There was a field full of pumpkins on our way...<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22482241979/in/datetaken/" title="James River state park 2015"><img alt="James River state park 2015" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5782/22482241979_488c6f4cdd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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We parked and then started our journey!<br />
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The hike was a pretty steady uphill climb for almost 2 miles! <br />
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We even saw horses on the route!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22456868238/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5671/22456868238_c724b7bce5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Then there was the fork in the road...<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22849220806/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5752/22849220806_8f1d135cce_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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My guys...<br />
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A little more...<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/22861707752/in/datetaken/" title="James River State Park Cabin 2015"><img alt="James River State Park Cabin 2015" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5772/22861707752_10e5ff66c9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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And, we arrived...<br />
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Picture time...<br />
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Look at these smiles!<br />
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We made it to the top of the rock!<br />
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360 degree views!<br />
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And, then we had to make our way back down...<br />
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We choose a slightly easier route down than these folks...<br />
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I wasn't moving fast enough for Charlie!<br />
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The rocks were amazing...<br />
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Going down was a lot faster!<br />
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The faces after the hike!<br />
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On our way down we stopped at the Montebello Fish Hatchery! Really cool!<br />
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And, then a quick stop at the parking lot at Crabtree Falls!<br />
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And, another quick stop to check out the rushing water!<br />
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I just love our time together!<br />
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Such a magnificent view!<br />
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This was a little fuzzy, but we'll take it!<br />
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And, I asked Dynamo to stop so I could snap a picture of this beautiful church!<br />
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And, this sign down the road...<br />
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What a way to end a great day and trip! The little man enjoyed roasting like a marshmallow!<br />
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We really enjoyed our time relaxing and getting fresh air! The state parks are amazing and we are so blessed to have access to such beautiful sights. Be sure to check out Spy Rock and James River State Park. You won't be disappointed!Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-44189063055921152802015-08-31T13:16:00.004-04:002015-08-31T13:16:48.320-04:00Mint Chocolate Chip is here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/20851036459/in/dateposted-public/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Mint Chocolate Chip soap by The Daily Scrub"><img alt="Mint Chocolate Chip soap by The Daily Scrub" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5762/20851036459_55ed4e2ce9_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The latest batch smells good enough to eat...literally!!<br />
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This mint chocolate chip is true to its name offering a delightfully chocolate fragrance with a hint of mint!<br />
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These bars were made as a favor for a recent bridal shower, and because they were such a hit we made more!!<br />
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<a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/20415164854/in/dateposted-public/" title="Mint Chocolate Chip soap by The Daily Scrub"><img alt="Mint Chocolate Chip soap by The Daily Scrub" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/779/20415164854_bdb7e8b1a1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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We also added some coffee grounds for exfoliation! Yummy!<br />
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-39120961148262607402015-08-05T08:38:00.000-04:002015-08-05T08:38:00.271-04:00A little lavender chamomile...<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/19900075389/in/dateposted-public/" title="Lavender Chamomile soap by The Daily Scrub"><img alt="Lavender Chamomile soap by The Daily Scrub" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/418/19900075389_8a4c4ccc72_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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This lavender chamomile is a lovely soap. It's so light and fresh with lots of yellow Brazilian clay for detoxification.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/19898753650/in/dateposted-public/" title="Lavender Chamomile soap by The Daily Scrub"><img alt="Lavender Chamomile soap by The Daily Scrub" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/457/19898753650_b743502838_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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The lavender buds serve as exfoliants.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/20086783605/in/dateposted-public/" title="Lavender Chamomile soap by The Daily Scrub"><img alt="Lavender Chamomile soap by The Daily Scrub" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/418/20086783605_4bd8145c84_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-5773521292910911752015-07-31T08:30:00.000-04:002015-07-31T08:30:00.557-04:00Cupcakes Anyone?It's always an honor to be asked to make favors for special occasions. Most recently I was asked to make pink soap cupcakes for a friend's wedding. They will be her favors this coming weekend!<br />
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It's very special to be a part of someone's special time.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/19900093829/in/dateposted-public/" title="Cupcake soaps by The Daily Scrub"><img alt="Cupcake soaps by The Daily Scrub" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/286/19900093829_e9caee35c0_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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The soaps turned out lovely and they really do look like edible cupcakes.<br />
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/19465807333/in/dateposted-public/" title="Cupcake soaps by The Daily Scrub"><img alt="Cupcake soaps by The Daily Scrub" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/388/19465807333_5d628b0b87_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-48082888025138794642015-07-29T08:25:00.001-04:002015-07-29T08:25:29.778-04:00Tandem TimeA few days ago we brought out the bicycle built for two!<br />
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We ventured over to the Petersburg National Battlefield!<br />
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At times it gets a little tricky taking groupie pics while trying to ride!<br />
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We had a great time on our spin even in the heat!<br />
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It is always so beautiful in the woods. It's quiet and so peaceful.<br />
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We should all stop to smell the trees every once in a while even if it means we might see an unwanted friend or two...<br />
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We are very grateful for our health to be able to ride and enjoy the time together!Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-24425808944030481942015-07-13T11:00:00.001-04:002015-07-13T11:00:10.545-04:00Mountain Bike Monday - See Spot RideI dusted off my Spot single speed over the weekend and we hit the trails at Poco.<br />
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It was a beautiful afternoon for a Sunday ride together in the park.<br />
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Spot was so glad to be out and about again. And, I felt really good on the bike after all this time.<br />
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I just love these big rocks on the green trail. Dynamo rides right up like it's no big deal!<br />
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Of course we ventured over to the dam where the snake family lives. Can you see him poking his head out of the bottom crack of the pipe?<br />
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And, there was another one!<br />
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Last week on our ride we ventured over to the new trails at Poco, the Blueberry Trail. It was a nice flowing ride with an awesome downhill!<br />
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Did I mention we rode Blue and Green too?<br />
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We checked out all of the new stuff on Forest Exploration side of the park.<br />
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And, we even saw a garter snake...<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="true" data-header="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/19430996705/in/dateposted-public/" title="Poco 6.28.15"><img alt="Poco 6.28.15" height="480" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3745/19430996705_937e7fe308_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Even though I've been a little delayed in posting, we are still out and about riding the trails together! It's always a good day when we can be together riding!Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-39540085318253486892015-06-03T08:35:00.001-04:002015-06-03T08:35:55.510-04:00Family HikeOver the weekend we decided to go for a hike at the Petersburg Battlefield. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18320495466" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8851/18320495466_fc0fcd11fb_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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The little man loves to hike and even when it's hot the trails are nice a shady.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17726229763" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/459/17726229763_8479db1eb0_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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The minute we started that way Charlie just knew where he was headed. He started whining!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17726235143" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8874/17726235143_690f51ceb1_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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His excitement is contagious! The Battlefield is a beautiful place!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17726247483" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8873/17726247483_14ac8eb197_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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The bridges are neat and the perfect opportunity for a picture. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18348395391" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/362/18348395391_ab40dd54f6_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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He poses but it's not his favorite thing to do!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17726261853" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8857/17726261853_9fd27e943c_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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The best part for Charlie is the chance to play in the water!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18342913812" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7767/18342913812_5ca3dfd6a0_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17726246583" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8763/17726246583_31ea5d21c5_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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He just splashes away!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17724283884" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7731/17724283884_5ff9f594cc_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17724284674" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7784/17724284674_03dc72db83_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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He sure can make us laugh!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18160731739" title="Battlefield hike 5.30.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/395/18160731739_f78f0662fa_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Battlefield hike 5.30.15"></a><br />
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Our days in the parks are just the best time ever! We love being together and just enjoying the beauty around. No hurry. No schedule. Just being together. Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-9509786389410575632015-05-30T07:00:00.000-04:002015-05-30T07:00:00.920-04:00Mountain Biking LakeviewIt had been quite some time since we biked the Lakeview Trails at Pocahontas Park.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18094492026" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7794/18094492026_4e6a36cf2f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Mountain Bike Mike joined us for the Memorial Day spin and Dynamo was our talented photographer.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18117452902" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7793/18117452902_ef5d53e934_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18117475102" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7718/18117475102_49d1d16b42_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It was a beautiful morning for a ride! <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18117448582" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7722/18117448582_d2225f8cc0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We had so much fun! And, even took advantage of the beautiful new benches on the trail!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18120930775" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7692/18120930775_fbdd1a3e12_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The trails were in great shape! It was just a gorgeous morning for a ride!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18094420076" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8781/18094420076_bf16c1dd8c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18117437602" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7730/18117437602_e3d46a4b59_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18094401906" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8830/18094401906_405c43879c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And, sure enough...our snake family was back this year at the creek. Eek! I think we counted between 3 and 4!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18121933951" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8791/18121933951_ed06888c91_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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One just sunning on top of the rock!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18195268051" title="Bike Poco 5.25.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Bike Poco 5.25.15" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8895/18195268051_0b9227e06c_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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I guess we weren't the only ones enjoying the morning at the park. So were the creatures!Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-40157883743709781002015-05-28T19:02:00.001-04:002015-05-28T19:02:07.658-04:00Hiking Texas Beach Over the weekend we decided to head to downtown Richmond to check out Texas Beach. We had heard it was a great place for hiking and for fur-children to enjoy the water.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17574255173" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="640" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7757/17574255173_001c1a8a64_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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We headed out first on North Bank Trail...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18196032571" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8774/18196032571_ea7dd7cec8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And then over the walking bridge to Texas Beach...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18191231012" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8839/18191231012_27492e704b_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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Charlie loved the rocky waters<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18191226792" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7782/18191226792_8cfa6dae4c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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There were lots of big rocks to climb and navigate over.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18006966598" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7739/18006966598_270158a0e0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And, some really neat sights...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18007103550" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7749/18007103550_24548b98d4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The trail was lush and green on the island.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18194824855" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7747/18194824855_72e8f1477c_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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It's amazing that this beautiful rocky river runs right through the big City of Richmond.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18006958238" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8853/18006958238_ac8de25d6d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17574217083" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8874/17574217083_b7afc95f5e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Really neat ruins in places...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17574215983" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8837/17574215983_c80120bb82_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And, then we got to the Nickel Bridge...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18168323096" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7771/18168323096_a270dfb79c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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How amazing to be underneath it!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18194808755" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8834/18194808755_bb15fa3460_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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The City has so many treasures waiting to be discovered.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18008585759" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8870/18008585759_3726f1971e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/18168307376" title="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Texas Beach Hike 5.23.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8801/18168307376_ff6fbe8a4b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It was a beautiful day for a hike! We did about 5.5 miles and enjoyed being together soaking up the fresh air and getting some great exercise.Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-65230660674159117922015-05-21T08:00:00.000-04:002015-05-21T08:00:04.528-04:00Spearmint Eucalyptus Goodness<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17853190052" title="Spearmint Eucalyptus Soap by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Spearmint Eucalyptus Soap" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5341/17853190052_9ed1c1b73c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>d<br />
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I just love the fresh clean scent of the spearmint eucalyptus soap.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17233568464" title="Spearmint Eucalyptus Soap by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Spearmint Eucalyptus Soap" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7745/17233568464_d1b3e94cdb_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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The smell is just enough to pick you up!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17668289288" title="Spearmint Eucalyptus Soap by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Spearmint Eucalyptus Soap" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5323/17668289288_360fc5e45c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Mint is such a delightful cleaning fragrance! And, the activated charcoal inside is an added bonus!<br />
<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-41019405070303116752015-05-19T07:47:00.003-04:002015-05-19T07:47:34.303-04:00Mountain Bike Monday - Some single track ridingFinally, we were able to get back to some single track riding at Poco over the weekend. We even caught up with our friend, Mountain Bike Mike!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17793427352" title="Poco Ride 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco Ride 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7745/17793427352_caaa9b44fa_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The boys were all smiles! It was good to be back out in the beautiful green woods! What a great time of year to be riding.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17796165905" title="Poco Ride 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco Ride 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5450/17796165905_d73c7f5a68_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The trails were so smooth and packed. They were fast and flowing. I just love the green and blue trails at Poco.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17820167551" title="Poco Ride 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco Ride 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8797/17820167551_6ba350ced3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Even though the weather was really warm, it wasn't too bad under the tree canopy.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17632150200" title="Poco Ride 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco Ride 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8876/17632150200_641dabb80c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We snapped some pics of Dynamo rolling over the rocks!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17667889088" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5345/17667889088_5ce80494ef_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17855699265" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5442/17855699265_0df7e1d666_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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What a star! Like it was nothing to it!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17235292533" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7664/17235292533_ccacefba3f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Look at the smile!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17235290993" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7712/17235290993_6e2d47c7f5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17820183281" title="Poco Ride 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco Ride 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7708/17820183281_77a1135eb2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We have been mostly riding on the road and trying out our new bicycle built for two, so it was a lot of fun to explore the park again!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17233163294" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8839/17233163294_510e48e094_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We ventured over the boat ramp to the Forest Exploration side of the park. We wanted to try and find the new trails that are part of the IMBA Richmond Ride Center.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17852773192" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7782/17852773192_03c70a136d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And, there it was! The new trail!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17668126050" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7727/17668126050_369fa4b05e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It was hard packed clay and was fast!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17829320886" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7724/17829320886_b4dfafc68c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17233131894" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5341/17233131894_23a2e19735_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We had a ball flying through!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17235243363" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8846/17235243363_10d68ebb23_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It will really be awesome when it's finally completed. Such amazing things going on at our favorite park!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/17235241013" title="Poco 5.17.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="Poco 5.17.15" height="480" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8836/17235241013_3f6d851a1c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It was such a great time being back out there together. I love riding with my Dynamo! And, it was a bonus having our friend, Mike, there too!Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-35601701277624838442015-04-28T22:04:00.001-04:002015-04-28T22:04:15.451-04:00Arts in the Park this Weekend!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdw3jgDHokGUVSz3sWjTt9UmuSSvsn988Th_hpaK5VtukdkQF-b02ryQCakGKTrm-UxB-82-2i-_CR2y_fZikEXEJ1ARVyV2ZT3O9gox02pVMcBD2Kv-SvqchvUsSurRhtkUIRJlEerOQ/s1600/logo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdw3jgDHokGUVSz3sWjTt9UmuSSvsn988Th_hpaK5VtukdkQF-b02ryQCakGKTrm-UxB-82-2i-_CR2y_fZikEXEJ1ARVyV2ZT3O9gox02pVMcBD2Kv-SvqchvUsSurRhtkUIRJlEerOQ/s320/logo.gif" /></a></div><br />
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Be sure to swing by and see us this Saturday and Sunday at Arts in the Park in Richmond, Virginia at Byrd Park. We are in space #429! Hours are Saturday from 11 - 6 and Sunday from 11 - 5. Looking forward to seeing you!!<br />
Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-1075968894682768542015-03-23T09:40:00.001-04:002015-03-23T09:40:40.209-04:00Mountain Bike Monday - On being the "stoker"<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16905312835" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8739/16905312835_745c2fb0a1_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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We headed out over the weekend to take Dreamwork (the tandem) on its first serious ride at the Battlefield. This was the true first test. Things started out great when the bike actually fit on the rack on the jeep! Hooray! First obstacle complete!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16904324451" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8743/16904324451_d76f5eda81_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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When we arrived we decided to start out on some of the smooth gravel paths just practicing terminology with one another and getting the initial feel for riding together and the bike itself! We eventually popped out onto the main park tour road and decided to try some road riding. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16905312585" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7282/16905312585_bf65b9c0b1_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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Keep in mind that pictures will be from a new perspective with this bike! And, speaking of perspective I think it's a great time to talk about being the stoker. In last week's post I talked about my job as simply providing the pedal power. That's the truth. My job as stoker is to pedal. If my captain is pedaling then I'm pedaling. There's no free ride here. We have to work together on the right gearing at the right time, when to stand on a climb, when to stop, how to start, and every other aspect of riding that you usually only think of subconsciously when you ride your own bike alone. After riding your own bike you don't have to give as much thought to the gear shifting, standing, stopping, etc. You just know how and when to do it. Your brain just remembers it I guess. Now, we have to re-train our brains and muscles to ride a little differently. We have to work in sync. As a team. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16719152819" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7622/16719152819_443f59b0ca_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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And, I think we did pretty good! The key was to be patient with one another. We each have to communicate with the other about our needs and concerns. Every movement I make in the back affects the balance of the bike and Dynamo's steering. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16282941734" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7281/16282941734_dab6980c0e_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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All I see is what's to my left and right. I had to lean around to snap the above pic. Riding a tandem is all about trust. I have to have complete trust in Dynamo. And, I do. We have ridden together over the years and he has patiently waited for me and supported me. He never left my side always encouraging me and wanting to help me do my best. So, we are pretty comfortable being together on the ride except now we will be on the same bike. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16717898330" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7638/16717898330_fbdfa84c52_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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The way I see things is that two are better than one. In any aspect of life. Wouldn't you agree? I'm a better biker with Dynamo by my side. He makes me better every single day. We are two peas in a pod. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16282940714" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8695/16282940714_a96cb438bb_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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We had a great ride! A little over 20 miles. We were feeling great! We aren't breaking any speed records, but it was a nice steady ride. We got to stop and watch the water ripple and observe the squiggly line in the sand...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16904075052" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8731/16904075052_a9173e9d1a_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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And, we stopped and smelled the daffodils...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16717647308" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8713/16717647308_b0000db3fc_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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And, looked at the beautiful trees...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16719152659" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8715/16719152659_c5ba5aec85_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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Spring is on its way!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16904071052" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7283/16904071052_75ef654764_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a><br />
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I'm looking forward to many more adventures on Dreamwork! We make a great team!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16905312155" title="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8703/16905312155_ec9c18abd9_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tandem Biking Battlefield 3.21.15"></a>Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9092567665376623396.post-6061264195894802712015-03-16T13:28:00.003-04:002015-03-16T13:29:52.541-04:00Dreamwork's Maiden VoyageOn March 10, we celebrated our 8 year wedding anniversary and 11 year together anniversary. We were in Florida visiting Dynamo's parents for the week, but we are now back in town and picked up our anniversary present. It's a Cannondale Tandem 29er. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16647606258" title="DW2 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="DW2" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7655/16647606258_8fa3c5be00_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
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For years I've been asking Dynamo for a tandem bike so we can do some rides truly together, and finally he surprised me with one. I was so surprised that I started to cry. At first I just couldn't fathom how I deserved such goodness. I just couldn't believe it. What a huge blessing God gave me and us. Dynamo continues to shower me with so much love and kindness truly exemplifying God's love. Once I stopped crying I remembered what Joel Osteen says about learning to accept God's blessings and favor and how we deserve goodness. That is part of our journey here. We have to accept goodness. And, we have to have grace for ourselves. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16834060382" title="DW4 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="DW4" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7624/16834060382_a8dbe0fe5f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Not only has God given me the most wonderful man in the world, but He also continually blesses us with all that we need and more. As I reflect on our years together and us taking our first ride yesterday, I am reminded of just how similar riding a tandem is to trusting God. When we ride the tandem, Dynamo is the captain, which means he rides in the front. He is stronger and makes all of the decisions. When to stop. When to start. When to stand. When to shift. Where to steer. EVERYTHING. My job is to be the stoker in the back. I just sit down and pedal. That's it. All I can see is what's on either side of me and his cute backside and I have no idea where we are going. I have to have complete trust. Trust in my captain and partner. Do you find that sometimes you struggle to have complete trust in your captain? I think most of us do. It's about learning to grown in our faith and ourselves. And, it ain't always easy!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16835281705" title="DW1 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="DW1" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7624/16835281705_576ed1869f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Marriage, too, is much like riding a tandem. You just have to trust one another. Sometimes one of you will need to be the captain using all of your strength to pedal forward, make the decisions, and pull the other along...and sometimes you'll be the stoker. Either way, it's about teamwork. It's okay that sometimes one person is going to need the other more. That's just life. I've learned that most of the time things aren't 50/50. That's just not how life is. No relationship is 50/50. Love doesn't keep score. Whether it's your husband, your friend, your parents, etc. just let it go. Don't always keep track of who called who and who did or didn't do what. Just pick up and always focus on giving more. Give of yourself completely and with your whole heart. For your whole life. Our favorite pastor said years ago that a good and successful marriage has two givers. So, I'm going to give my heart out and just enjoy the ride. We are only given this very moment, nothing more, nothing less. I'm learning to live in the present and see where this journey takes us.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shopcuriosities/16649173289" title="DW6 by Rachel Chieppa, on Flickr"><img alt="DW6" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7591/16649173289_bebb01f4e9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And, our beautiful new tandem has a name. It's called "Dreamwork." Dynamo named it. If you want to know why, check out this <a href="http://www.destinationwired.com/watch/where-youre-going-matters/teamwork-dreamwork.html">church sermon</a> from the church we've recently been attending. Whether you're married or not, it's all about how it takes teamwork to make the dream work! The dream should always bigger than the team! Enjoy! Be blessed! <br />
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Dynamo, I thank you for loving me when I needed it the most. I thank you for being my rock. I thank you for being my soulmate. You make me a better person every. single. day! I can't wait to ride off into the sunset with you on Dreamwork! I love you forever and always. <br />
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<br />Rachel Chieppahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02869643365725490400noreply@blogger.com2