One of my friends and former roommates, Claire, told me about this list she had made with 30 things to accomplish before she turns 30. When Claire told me about this, she was 23. I was 28. Darn it. I loved the idea but felt like it was too late to make a list of 30 things with less than two years to do it. Fast forward about 18 months. 30 is almost a mere six months away. Whoa. It's definitely not happening now.
Well, I was watching a Lifetime movie (shocking, I know) a couple of weeks ago called "7 Things to do Before I Turn 30". Now, the girl had made the list when she was in high school, but I thought that I could adapt it so that I could list 7 specific things to achieve in the next six months.
Here's the List:
1. Start an Etsy store. I would love to figure out a way to combine my new love of sewing and crafts with a way to make some extra money.
2. Learn how to serve a tennis ball. I took lessons for a few years but I've always had trouble serving. I am going to take some lessons and maybe even join a league or something. Tennis was such a fun part of my childhood and I didn't realize the other day how much I missed it!!
3. Take the GRE and start applying to grad school.
4. Run a 5k in 24 minutes or less.
5. Skydive.
6. Finally redo my fireplace!!!
7. Purchase a Roth IRA
I am bound and determined to cross all of these off of the list by Sept. 12 (:
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Thursday, February 19, 2009
thankful thursday
I thought I would revive this tradition again, just for today. The best way to get out of a funk is to focus on all of your blessings. So here goes....
1. My little (not so little...he just turned 27!) brother, Matthew, is back safely from India. He will be in Dallas this Monday for about two weeks. My goal is to get him some dates...any takers ladies????
2. I have great people to work with. Honestly, I don't always enjoy teaching, but I am so thankful for wonderful colleagues who are great friends. That keeps me going each day.
3. Curly hair. Once again, I am reminded of how nice it is that I can just put some product in my hair and go to work while it dries. It may not always look great, but it is fine for work and that allows me some extra sleep. And that is always a good thing (:
4. Tomorrow is FRIDAY!!! I am so pumped for the weekend!! Nothing particularly exciting is happening, but I just need some time to rest. I'm looking forward to sewing a few test products for my future Etsy store. Good times!
1. My little (not so little...he just turned 27!) brother, Matthew, is back safely from India. He will be in Dallas this Monday for about two weeks. My goal is to get him some dates...any takers ladies????
2. I have great people to work with. Honestly, I don't always enjoy teaching, but I am so thankful for wonderful colleagues who are great friends. That keeps me going each day.
3. Curly hair. Once again, I am reminded of how nice it is that I can just put some product in my hair and go to work while it dries. It may not always look great, but it is fine for work and that allows me some extra sleep. And that is always a good thing (:
4. Tomorrow is FRIDAY!!! I am so pumped for the weekend!! Nothing particularly exciting is happening, but I just need some time to rest. I'm looking forward to sewing a few test products for my future Etsy store. Good times!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
help!!
Is anyone watching "The Bachelor" this season? I shamefully admit that I have been sucked into this particular dark, dysfunctional, unrealistic-reality show. I actually care who stupid Jason chooses to be his wife in the "Most dramatic rose ceremony in 'Bachelor' history!" But friends, that is not why I need your help.
I am in a rut. A funk. Call it what you will, but I need to get out of it and start having some fun!!!
The reason I started this blog with a reference to the most ridiculous reality show ever was because last night, Jason 'The Bachelor' got rid of Jillian. I grew to like Jillian because I thought she was a fun girl who knew how to have fun while waiting for the next phase in your life. Additionally, the name 'Jillian' is on my girl-baby-name list(: But I digress. I basically need some ideas for fun things to do that will get me out of the house and allow me to meet some new people...and perhaps a new gentleman caller--haha. Sorry, I love Jane Austen so I had to work that term in there. But seriously, if I want to be living it up while I have the chance!!
My hobbies currently consist of running, sewing, reading, crafting, watching "Reba" (shout out to Tara and Claire), cooking, sleeping, and eating. If you notice the list, it is difficult to work these into social events outside of the 60-80 year old woman circle. When I was growing up, my main interests were sports. I tried the co-ed flag football league and the co-ed basketball league last year and had an okay time. I guess I need some new grown-up interests. It's difficult to get plugged in at church ever since my small group parted ways, but I don't think a new church is the answer (although I daydream about Sunday School classes and a Singles' ministry). My job is kind of limiting as far as meeting new people.
I hope this blog doesn't come across as desperate...because I'm not. But I just need to tap into some other minds because the creative ideas are eluding me. I'm open for suggestions and trying new things. I've thought of helping with Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics and things like that. Has anyone had experiences with those?
I would love to have some fun adventures to enrich my life. Any ideas are most welcome (:
I am in a rut. A funk. Call it what you will, but I need to get out of it and start having some fun!!!
The reason I started this blog with a reference to the most ridiculous reality show ever was because last night, Jason 'The Bachelor' got rid of Jillian. I grew to like Jillian because I thought she was a fun girl who knew how to have fun while waiting for the next phase in your life. Additionally, the name 'Jillian' is on my girl-baby-name list(: But I digress. I basically need some ideas for fun things to do that will get me out of the house and allow me to meet some new people...and perhaps a new gentleman caller--haha. Sorry, I love Jane Austen so I had to work that term in there. But seriously, if I want to be living it up while I have the chance!!
My hobbies currently consist of running, sewing, reading, crafting, watching "Reba" (shout out to Tara and Claire), cooking, sleeping, and eating. If you notice the list, it is difficult to work these into social events outside of the 60-80 year old woman circle. When I was growing up, my main interests were sports. I tried the co-ed flag football league and the co-ed basketball league last year and had an okay time. I guess I need some new grown-up interests. It's difficult to get plugged in at church ever since my small group parted ways, but I don't think a new church is the answer (although I daydream about Sunday School classes and a Singles' ministry). My job is kind of limiting as far as meeting new people.
I hope this blog doesn't come across as desperate...because I'm not. But I just need to tap into some other minds because the creative ideas are eluding me. I'm open for suggestions and trying new things. I've thought of helping with Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics and things like that. Has anyone had experiences with those?
I would love to have some fun adventures to enrich my life. Any ideas are most welcome (:
Sunday, February 8, 2009
jumping on the bandwagon
You've seen this all over Facebook, but I thought I would just do it on my blog. This way, I don't have to tag anyone. Pretty sure everyone has personally been tagged about 15 times each. So, Hillary, since you were the first one to tag me, this is for you!
1. I love drinks...coffee, tea, diet drinks, etc.
2. I probably cried about my super-curly hair daily from the age of 13-17. Not
even exaggerating there. Now, I sometimes cry about it for other reasons...
3. I don't think I come across as very maternal or nurturing, but all I want to be in life is a wife and mommy.
4. I love to watch cheesy Lifetime movies while working on other stuff around the house. Shoot, I love to watch just about anything on Lifetime...esp. 'Reba'.
5. I have always had three or four really close friends through most stages of my life. My theory is quality over quantity, which means I've never been popular.
6. I have a crazy memory for trivial things. My dream is to be on Jeopardy one day so I don't feel like reading all of those History books and 'People' magazines wasn't done in vain. I also remember people's names, where I met them, where I was when certain conversations were had, etc. It's borderline stalker-ish. It also makes me frustrated when people don't remember meeting me.
7. I was obsessed with Pete Sampras for about 8 years. I would hang his "Got Milk" ads in my locker at school, in my room at home and other places. I would watch him play tennis whenever I got the chance. I even wrote him a couple of letters when I was in 8th grade.
8. If i eat a bagel, I have to peel the outside 'crust' layer off first. Weird.
9. I played the violin for 5 years and took piano lessons for 6. I regret quitting both of those.
10. I have run a marathon and 5 half-marathons.
11. If I can't check my email several times a day I start to feel cut off from the world. Usually, I have nothing interesting in my inbox.
12. I want to live in the mountains someday.
13. I would like to have 3-4 kids.
14. I love cottage cheese and could eat it at least twice a day.
15. As much as I love cottage cheese and dairy, I am really interested in the vegan lifestyle.
16. My parents threw me a "Double-Dare" themed birthday party for my ninth b-day, complete with physical challenges and an obstacle course. It was AWESOME!!
17. I get uncomfortable when people ask me where I went to college.
18. My favorite movie is "Meet Joe Black".
19. I could read books when I was 4. Thanks, Mom!
20. I've never liked dolls or girly things, however, my bedroom growing up was full of Madame Alexander dolls and handmade porcelain ones that my grandmother made.
21. I need a lot of alone time or I start to feel stifled. It would be easy for me to become a hermit.
22. I've worked at Putt-Putt, Target, Cheddar's and a whitewater rafting shop. If I could make a living working at Rapid Transit Rafting, then I would do it in a heartbeat.
23. I hate looking in mirrors and avoid them after I have gotten ready for the day.
24. I like to drive a stick and don't enjoy automatic transmissions because my right hand doesn't know what to do.
25. I was also the antithesis of a procrastinator until a few years ago. I was the girl who would be done with her term papers at the end of the first week of each semester. Something has seriously changed, though. I don't like it....makes me feel out of control.
1. I love drinks...coffee, tea, diet drinks, etc.
2. I probably cried about my super-curly hair daily from the age of 13-17. Not
even exaggerating there. Now, I sometimes cry about it for other reasons...
3. I don't think I come across as very maternal or nurturing, but all I want to be in life is a wife and mommy.
4. I love to watch cheesy Lifetime movies while working on other stuff around the house. Shoot, I love to watch just about anything on Lifetime...esp. 'Reba'.
5. I have always had three or four really close friends through most stages of my life. My theory is quality over quantity, which means I've never been popular.
6. I have a crazy memory for trivial things. My dream is to be on Jeopardy one day so I don't feel like reading all of those History books and 'People' magazines wasn't done in vain. I also remember people's names, where I met them, where I was when certain conversations were had, etc. It's borderline stalker-ish. It also makes me frustrated when people don't remember meeting me.
7. I was obsessed with Pete Sampras for about 8 years. I would hang his "Got Milk" ads in my locker at school, in my room at home and other places. I would watch him play tennis whenever I got the chance. I even wrote him a couple of letters when I was in 8th grade.
8. If i eat a bagel, I have to peel the outside 'crust' layer off first. Weird.
9. I played the violin for 5 years and took piano lessons for 6. I regret quitting both of those.
10. I have run a marathon and 5 half-marathons.
11. If I can't check my email several times a day I start to feel cut off from the world. Usually, I have nothing interesting in my inbox.
12. I want to live in the mountains someday.
13. I would like to have 3-4 kids.
14. I love cottage cheese and could eat it at least twice a day.
15. As much as I love cottage cheese and dairy, I am really interested in the vegan lifestyle.
16. My parents threw me a "Double-Dare" themed birthday party for my ninth b-day, complete with physical challenges and an obstacle course. It was AWESOME!!
17. I get uncomfortable when people ask me where I went to college.
18. My favorite movie is "Meet Joe Black".
19. I could read books when I was 4. Thanks, Mom!
20. I've never liked dolls or girly things, however, my bedroom growing up was full of Madame Alexander dolls and handmade porcelain ones that my grandmother made.
21. I need a lot of alone time or I start to feel stifled. It would be easy for me to become a hermit.
22. I've worked at Putt-Putt, Target, Cheddar's and a whitewater rafting shop. If I could make a living working at Rapid Transit Rafting, then I would do it in a heartbeat.
23. I hate looking in mirrors and avoid them after I have gotten ready for the day.
24. I like to drive a stick and don't enjoy automatic transmissions because my right hand doesn't know what to do.
25. I was also the antithesis of a procrastinator until a few years ago. I was the girl who would be done with her term papers at the end of the first week of each semester. Something has seriously changed, though. I don't like it....makes me feel out of control.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
i'm just a little creeped out...
....by this:
If you are interested in purchasing a pair of these earrings and learning more about them, then visit here. Sure, I get the irony of it all, but I still find them a tiny bit disturbing.
If you are interested in purchasing a pair of these earrings and learning more about them, then visit here. Sure, I get the irony of it all, but I still find them a tiny bit disturbing.
Monday, February 2, 2009
it's a right-handed world
I have been working on some new crafts lately. One of the things I've been playing around with are little appliques. Tonight, I applied one of my creations to a onesie. To secure the applique, I attempted to do a blanket stitch. It gives it a more handmade look than the sewing machine and I like it. So, I watched a tutorial online to learn how to do this stitch. I watched, and I practiced. The stitch is supposed to look like an 'L'. Mine were not turning out so well. I watched the video again. And again. Then I practiced some more. Then I failed again.
Frustrated, I walked away from the project for a couple of hours. After getting tired of watching the ridiculousness that is "The Bachelor", I decided to turn off the TV and watch the video just one more time. As I watched, I realized that the lady demonstrating the stitch was right handed. Eureka! As a lefty, I as doing the stitch the same way but not getting the same effect because I was coming at it from the wrong direction. So, I tried doing the stitch just like the lady but in reverse and it worked...Hooray!!! Most of the time I love being left-handed. It is one of those things that makes you different from most of the population but without it being something weird like an eleventh toe. But, this little experience reminded me of some painful kindergarten memories. We only had right-handed scissors in that class so my cutting and pasting was always a little sub-par which drove me crazy. I am sure a counselor would pinpoint this moment as the beginning of my perfectionist personality--haha.
But I digress...
I'll try to get a picture of this project. Crafts and sewing have been such a release for me lately. I love love love creating stuff. Ultimately, I would love to figure out a way to parlay this into a side-job. There are a ton of Etsy shops out there, so I would need something really unique and special. Anyone have any ideas or want to go into business with me????
Frustrated, I walked away from the project for a couple of hours. After getting tired of watching the ridiculousness that is "The Bachelor", I decided to turn off the TV and watch the video just one more time. As I watched, I realized that the lady demonstrating the stitch was right handed. Eureka! As a lefty, I as doing the stitch the same way but not getting the same effect because I was coming at it from the wrong direction. So, I tried doing the stitch just like the lady but in reverse and it worked...Hooray!!! Most of the time I love being left-handed. It is one of those things that makes you different from most of the population but without it being something weird like an eleventh toe. But, this little experience reminded me of some painful kindergarten memories. We only had right-handed scissors in that class so my cutting and pasting was always a little sub-par which drove me crazy. I am sure a counselor would pinpoint this moment as the beginning of my perfectionist personality--haha.
But I digress...
I'll try to get a picture of this project. Crafts and sewing have been such a release for me lately. I love love love creating stuff. Ultimately, I would love to figure out a way to parlay this into a side-job. There are a ton of Etsy shops out there, so I would need something really unique and special. Anyone have any ideas or want to go into business with me????
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Aprons, aprons, and more aprons!!
Hello friends! Yes, it's 11 pm on Saturday night and I am home blogging. Fear not--I am not becoming an agoraphobic spinster. Although, Paula Deen was agoraphobic for several years and she turned out okay. But I digress....I do have social plans tomorrow afternoon--a movie and dinner--with a boy. So there *grin*
I spent a good chunk of the day making aprons!!! I just love them. And I find sewing and the act of creating something practical so therapeutic. Here is a picture of my very first apron, modeled by the lovely Melissa:
Today, I found this super-cute Amy Butler fabric at a store in Lewisville.
I couldn't believe it--it is perfect for that 'vintage' look! I ended up making an apron out of it and I think I'll keep it for myself (: BUT, I made two more that were also cute so maybe I'll have a giveaway soon.
That's all for today. "Beauty Shop" just came on E! so I might just watch that for a while. I love that Queen Latifah and how she rocks her plus-size body with confidence!!
Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
I spent a good chunk of the day making aprons!!! I just love them. And I find sewing and the act of creating something practical so therapeutic. Here is a picture of my very first apron, modeled by the lovely Melissa:
Today, I found this super-cute Amy Butler fabric at a store in Lewisville.
I couldn't believe it--it is perfect for that 'vintage' look! I ended up making an apron out of it and I think I'll keep it for myself (: BUT, I made two more that were also cute so maybe I'll have a giveaway soon. That's all for today. "Beauty Shop" just came on E! so I might just watch that for a while. I love that Queen Latifah and how she rocks her plus-size body with confidence!!
Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
no picture yet....
...but I finished my first sewing project: an apron!!!!
Yes, it's true! I really made an apron on my little sewing machine. My mom spent most of last Friday with me and we played around and I watched her make a practice one. It was a fun time with her, but I was a little discouraged and thought that I could never do it. Well, I tried it on Monday and I guess the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr. helped me along. I am kidding about MLK, but it did turn out better than I had hoped it would. It has mistakes, I'm sure. However, I am hoping that Melissa (the recipient of the apron) will not inspect it too closely (:
Anyway, we took some pictures last night of Melissa modeling her apron so I'll gladly share those as soon as I get them. I am loving to sew....sew (ha) let me know if you'd like to get on the apron list since that's pretty much all I can do right now!
Yes, it's true! I really made an apron on my little sewing machine. My mom spent most of last Friday with me and we played around and I watched her make a practice one. It was a fun time with her, but I was a little discouraged and thought that I could never do it. Well, I tried it on Monday and I guess the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr. helped me along. I am kidding about MLK, but it did turn out better than I had hoped it would. It has mistakes, I'm sure. However, I am hoping that Melissa (the recipient of the apron) will not inspect it too closely (:
Anyway, we took some pictures last night of Melissa modeling her apron so I'll gladly share those as soon as I get them. I am loving to sew....sew (ha) let me know if you'd like to get on the apron list since that's pretty much all I can do right now!
Monday, January 19, 2009
simplify
I am really motivated right now to de-clutter every area of my life. So, I am making some changes and please feel free to ask me how the process is going at any time to hold me accountable. I will need it (: So...I am making some specific goals and breaking them into categories.
Here are my financial goals:
I have always been pretty good with money. Perhaps that is because I grew up with a banker/CPA dad who led by example on how to save and be wise with finances. Lately, I feel like I've kind of been nickel-and-dime-ing a little too much. Those little purchases add up. I want to be fully aware of where my money is going and exactly how much I'm spending each week.
**No more new clothes purchases for the next 2 months. I will mix and match what I already
have and use some creativity with accessories.
**Eat at home except for maybe one meal out per week. I have been getting in a bad habit of
grabbing something at the last minute for dinner. A little forethought will keep this from
happening...like remembering to thaw out some chicken before I leave for work.
**Cash budget. Each week I'll get out a certain amount of money and once that is gone, it's
gone and I'm done spending.
**Use what I have already have. I have a TON of Bath and Body lotions, bath gels, sprays,
etc. I also have a lot of makeup that I need to use up (with the exception of my Bare
Escentuals--I have to replace that!). But, each Christmas my om buys me this little makeup
kit thing from Ulta with so many little eyeshadows and such. I could use these for probably
2 years without having to buy new makeup.
Personal Growth Goals
**Workout at least 5 days a week
**Eat healthy 80% of the time but allow for a few guilt-free splurges
**Train for another half-marathon and maybe shoot to do another full
**Spend less time on the computer or watching tv
**Get better at sewing
**keep a personal journal
**Write more handwritten letters
**Stay organized and know where everything is at all times
**Have more consistent quiet times
**Become more assertive and not care what other people think of me
**Get married (haha)
That's all I can think of now...I hope to look back on this in a year and see that I followed through on some of these things. I guess the title of "simplify" only really applies to the financial goals, but my hope is that I will slow down and take time to enjoy the people and things that are already around me.
Here are my financial goals:
I have always been pretty good with money. Perhaps that is because I grew up with a banker/CPA dad who led by example on how to save and be wise with finances. Lately, I feel like I've kind of been nickel-and-dime-ing a little too much. Those little purchases add up. I want to be fully aware of where my money is going and exactly how much I'm spending each week.
**No more new clothes purchases for the next 2 months. I will mix and match what I already
have and use some creativity with accessories.
**Eat at home except for maybe one meal out per week. I have been getting in a bad habit of
grabbing something at the last minute for dinner. A little forethought will keep this from
happening...like remembering to thaw out some chicken before I leave for work.
**Cash budget. Each week I'll get out a certain amount of money and once that is gone, it's
gone and I'm done spending.
**Use what I have already have. I have a TON of Bath and Body lotions, bath gels, sprays,
etc. I also have a lot of makeup that I need to use up (with the exception of my Bare
Escentuals--I have to replace that!). But, each Christmas my om buys me this little makeup
kit thing from Ulta with so many little eyeshadows and such. I could use these for probably
2 years without having to buy new makeup.
Personal Growth Goals
**Workout at least 5 days a week
**Eat healthy 80% of the time but allow for a few guilt-free splurges
**Train for another half-marathon and maybe shoot to do another full
**Spend less time on the computer or watching tv
**Get better at sewing
**keep a personal journal
**Write more handwritten letters
**Stay organized and know where everything is at all times
**Have more consistent quiet times
**Become more assertive and not care what other people think of me
**Get married (haha)
That's all I can think of now...I hope to look back on this in a year and see that I followed through on some of these things. I guess the title of "simplify" only really applies to the financial goals, but my hope is that I will slow down and take time to enjoy the people and things that are already around me.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
a little bit of this...a little bit of that
Yesterday was such a fun day. We didn't have to go to school, so that was the best part! Who would have thought that I would need another break so soon after Christmas? Well, I did (:
I popped right out of bed at 6 on my very own. As much as I wanted to stay in bed, I couldn't get back to sleep. So I worked out, got ready, and started out the day by running some errands. Most of the errands that I had to run were returning items. I HATE to return stuff. Mostly because the sales people kind of suspect that you have been less than honest about why you're returning things. As much as I hate returning things, I hate trying things on even more. Hence, the need to return.
Then I headed over to my mom's and we had a sewing day. ell, I basically just watched her teach me some basics about cutting out patterns, pinning, stitching, etc. It was a fun time with my mom. I do feel badly that I am just now becoming the little girl that she probably always wanted. I was a tomboy through and through and wanted nothing to do with dolls, crafts, sewing, etc. No that I'm almost 30, I am interested in this stuff!! Sorry Mom!
While I was with my mom, my dad called and wanted to take us out to dinner. Yesterday would have been my grandmother's 78th birthday and this is the first birthday since she passed away. So, we tried out a new restaurant in Flo Mo called Agave. It is owned by Tony Casillas, who some of you may remember from the Cowboys' glory days when they would win Super Bowls and stuff. The funniest moment of the night was while we were waiting, my mom and I walked over to Hobby Lobby to pick something up. When we returned, my dad said that they were handing out free margaritas because they don't have their liquor license yet and that I should get one because he was driving. Some of you don't know my parents but this was shocking! My parents have never had anything to drink and for them to suggest that I have one is unbelievable. I mean, I still can't get over it. So, I drank my free beverage with my parents and it was great! I feel like the door might be opening to tell them about a few other little things that I am not ashamed of but have been afraid to share. Anyway, the food was great and it was a fun night.
Today I am running a few more errands and am going to work on a sewing project that I will hopefully be able to post soon if it turns out as it should (:
I popped right out of bed at 6 on my very own. As much as I wanted to stay in bed, I couldn't get back to sleep. So I worked out, got ready, and started out the day by running some errands. Most of the errands that I had to run were returning items. I HATE to return stuff. Mostly because the sales people kind of suspect that you have been less than honest about why you're returning things. As much as I hate returning things, I hate trying things on even more. Hence, the need to return.
Then I headed over to my mom's and we had a sewing day. ell, I basically just watched her teach me some basics about cutting out patterns, pinning, stitching, etc. It was a fun time with my mom. I do feel badly that I am just now becoming the little girl that she probably always wanted. I was a tomboy through and through and wanted nothing to do with dolls, crafts, sewing, etc. No that I'm almost 30, I am interested in this stuff!! Sorry Mom!
While I was with my mom, my dad called and wanted to take us out to dinner. Yesterday would have been my grandmother's 78th birthday and this is the first birthday since she passed away. So, we tried out a new restaurant in Flo Mo called Agave. It is owned by Tony Casillas, who some of you may remember from the Cowboys' glory days when they would win Super Bowls and stuff. The funniest moment of the night was while we were waiting, my mom and I walked over to Hobby Lobby to pick something up. When we returned, my dad said that they were handing out free margaritas because they don't have their liquor license yet and that I should get one because he was driving. Some of you don't know my parents but this was shocking! My parents have never had anything to drink and for them to suggest that I have one is unbelievable. I mean, I still can't get over it. So, I drank my free beverage with my parents and it was great! I feel like the door might be opening to tell them about a few other little things that I am not ashamed of but have been afraid to share. Anyway, the food was great and it was a fun night.
Today I am running a few more errands and am going to work on a sewing project that I will hopefully be able to post soon if it turns out as it should (:
blogs blogs blogs
hi friends! I hope that no one got too depressed by my lack of posting these past couple of weeks (insert sarcasm here). I am back! And I really don't have a lot of fun things to share, but do have a few little random things.
One of the reasons I decided to take a break from blogs was because I realized that I kept having conversation that started with "Well, I was reading this blog...." or "So and so posted such and such" on her blog". The funny thing is that I sometimes don't even personally KNOW these people. However, I feel like I do because I read about their lives because they are so free in sharing it.
So, here are some favorite blogs from people who don't know me from Adam.
Bring the Rain--This one gets a lot of comments so I am sure some of you have seen it already. All I know is if you read the whole story of Audrey Caroline, you had better have a box of tissues handy.
Kelly's Korner--I found Kelly's blog a little over a year ago through someone else's. She has the cutest posts and I think I am encouraged by her because she was a little older when she got married (: Well, she had a lot of struggles with infertility but finally got pregnant and had her baby girl, Harper, yesterday. Harper is in very critical condition and my heart breaks for this sweet family, but they are praying and staying strong in their faith.
Pioneer Woman--This lady is hilarious! Her posts about life on her ranch are entertaining. I particularly enjoyed reading the story of her romance with "Marlboro Man". It takes a while to read through the whole thing, but it was so fun to read. I hear that her recipes are incredible, but i haven't tried any...yet.
So, go check some of these out. You'll laugh, you'll cry. Blogs are great fun but like everything else in life, moderation is key.
One of the reasons I decided to take a break from blogs was because I realized that I kept having conversation that started with "Well, I was reading this blog...." or "So and so posted such and such" on her blog". The funny thing is that I sometimes don't even personally KNOW these people. However, I feel like I do because I read about their lives because they are so free in sharing it.
So, here are some favorite blogs from people who don't know me from Adam.
Bring the Rain--This one gets a lot of comments so I am sure some of you have seen it already. All I know is if you read the whole story of Audrey Caroline, you had better have a box of tissues handy.
Kelly's Korner--I found Kelly's blog a little over a year ago through someone else's. She has the cutest posts and I think I am encouraged by her because she was a little older when she got married (: Well, she had a lot of struggles with infertility but finally got pregnant and had her baby girl, Harper, yesterday. Harper is in very critical condition and my heart breaks for this sweet family, but they are praying and staying strong in their faith.
Pioneer Woman--This lady is hilarious! Her posts about life on her ranch are entertaining. I particularly enjoyed reading the story of her romance with "Marlboro Man". It takes a while to read through the whole thing, but it was so fun to read. I hear that her recipes are incredible, but i haven't tried any...yet.
So, go check some of these out. You'll laugh, you'll cry. Blogs are great fun but like everything else in life, moderation is key.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
fast
Over the past few days, I've realized that I'm a little too wrapped up in the blogosphere. So, I am taking a week off from writing blogs, reading blogs, Facebook, etc. Really, I want to only use my computer to check email.
I am looking forward to this break to use my time for other endeavors. I will be back soon with something exciting and fun (:
I am looking forward to this break to use my time for other endeavors. I will be back soon with something exciting and fun (:
Thursday, January 1, 2009
here's to a new year
I don't have a lot that I want to blog about right now, but I thought I should start off the new year with a fresh post. This is just going to be random, but then again, I'm pretty random.
**I did get a sewing machine for Christmas and it's so cool. Now I have to learn how to make something!
**I am still sore from a weight-lifting class I took at the gym on Monday...what the heck?!?!?
**Allison came for a visit this past weekend and it was so fun! We made our annual trip to Starbucks, went shopping, ate at Blue Goose, and went to Pete's Piano Bar. Oh, and she introduced me to this cool website: http://frugal-fashionistas.com/
**I bought leggings. We'll see if I have the courage to ever wear them.
**Went to coffee and to the movies with Hollie O today. Bawled like a baby during "Marley and Me".
**I redecorated a wall in my room. Scrapbook paper is the best stuff ever!
**My Aunt Gina gave me an apron for Christmas...she had no idea about my recent fascination with them.
**I am having a sleepover with Emily and her 4 kiddos tomorrow night...fun!
**Tis the season for engagements. Congratulations to Melissa, Hillary and Brooke!
**I basically accomplished nothing on my Christmas-Break 'To-Do' list.
I am hopeful that this new year will bring a lot of great things. I hope for this every year, and great things do happen. But it's just not usually the things that I specifically hope or pray for at the beginning of each year. With all of that said, I am looking forward to a wonderful 2009 (:
**I did get a sewing machine for Christmas and it's so cool. Now I have to learn how to make something!
**I am still sore from a weight-lifting class I took at the gym on Monday...what the heck?!?!?
**Allison came for a visit this past weekend and it was so fun! We made our annual trip to Starbucks, went shopping, ate at Blue Goose, and went to Pete's Piano Bar. Oh, and she introduced me to this cool website: http://frugal-fashionistas.com/
**I bought leggings. We'll see if I have the courage to ever wear them.
**Went to coffee and to the movies with Hollie O today. Bawled like a baby during "Marley and Me".
**I redecorated a wall in my room. Scrapbook paper is the best stuff ever!
**My Aunt Gina gave me an apron for Christmas...she had no idea about my recent fascination with them.
**I am having a sleepover with Emily and her 4 kiddos tomorrow night...fun!
**Tis the season for engagements. Congratulations to Melissa, Hillary and Brooke!
**I basically accomplished nothing on my Christmas-Break 'To-Do' list.
I am hopeful that this new year will bring a lot of great things. I hope for this every year, and great things do happen. But it's just not usually the things that I specifically hope or pray for at the beginning of each year. With all of that said, I am looking forward to a wonderful 2009 (:
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
i'm so excited!!!!
I have a deep love for Amy Grant that goes back to when I was about 3 or 4 years old. My Aunt Gina and I would sing "Sing your praise to the Lord" together and it was always a hit for the family! Anyway, I discovered that Amy herself has a blog...yippee!! I know that Amy has been the subject of a lot of scrutiny in the Christian realm, and we don't know all of the details of her situations. And it's not our place to pass judgment. But I treasure so many of her songs, have been to numerous concerts, own just about every album, and I will always love her.
Here's the link if there are any more fans out there!!!
http://amygrant.typepad.com/
Here's the link if there are any more fans out there!!!
http://amygrant.typepad.com/
waxing philosophically
I'm in search of the perfect skin-care regime. So, after some careful research, I went to Sephora today and bought this kit by Philosophy:
The description on the website says that you need this product if...
**you want to restore your skin's radiance
**you seek skin confidence
**you want to look 100% better wearing 50% less makeup
**you want your skin to look the best it has has ever looked
Um, yes please!!!
It's a little pricey but even having just used it once today, I like it. I will report back in a few weeks to see if I am really able to pull off the "makeup optional" claim (:
The description on the website says that you need this product if...
**you want to restore your skin's radiance
**you seek skin confidence
**you want to look 100% better wearing 50% less makeup
**you want your skin to look the best it has has ever looked
Um, yes please!!!
It's a little pricey but even having just used it once today, I like it. I will report back in a few weeks to see if I am really able to pull off the "makeup optional" claim (:
Sunday, December 21, 2008
aprons
Lately I have been obsessed with aprons. It started back in the spring when I saw some cute vintage aprons at a craft/antique mall. One of the reasons I have asked Santa for a sewing machine and want to learn how to sew is to be able to make them. I am convinced that people would love to get them for gifts!
So since parents are so hard to buy for, I decided to go with a 'theme' for my mom. (don't worry, they don't read the blog). The theme is "Things that you would not buy for yourself". So, I figured that one of the things I would get her is a fun apron.
I think that Melissa is the one who told me about Anthropologie having some cute ones. Off I went to the Shops at Willow Bend and I found a lot of cute aprons (and picked up a few other little gifts and a couple of plates for myself that were on sale). This is the apron that I bought for her, except that hers is turquoise and green:
Dad is getting the same boring stuff...gifts aren't his love language anyway so he really won't care (:
So since parents are so hard to buy for, I decided to go with a 'theme' for my mom. (don't worry, they don't read the blog). The theme is "Things that you would not buy for yourself". So, I figured that one of the things I would get her is a fun apron.
I think that Melissa is the one who told me about Anthropologie having some cute ones. Off I went to the Shops at Willow Bend and I found a lot of cute aprons (and picked up a few other little gifts and a couple of plates for myself that were on sale). This is the apron that I bought for her, except that hers is turquoise and green:
Dad is getting the same boring stuff...gifts aren't his love language anyway so he really won't care (:
Thursday, December 18, 2008
goals
I cannot tell you how excited I am to have a two week break from school. Beginning at 12:30 tomorrow, am a free woman. Wahoo!
In order to not waste-away the time off, I am going to set some little goals for myself. Here are a few.
**Finish the 'Twilight" series. I just can't get into the third book but I need to know how it all ends so I can just be done with it!
**Do some kind of workout everyday. I will probably run a lot but I need to get back into the weights.
**Organize my closet for GOOD!!!
**Figure out to do with the third bedroom (and I might paint it)
**Get my hair cut and colored
**Deep clean my house
**Get my plate back (only a couple of you will understand this one!!!)
That's all I've got for now....good night!!!
In order to not waste-away the time off, I am going to set some little goals for myself. Here are a few.
**Finish the 'Twilight" series. I just can't get into the third book but I need to know how it all ends so I can just be done with it!
**Do some kind of workout everyday. I will probably run a lot but I need to get back into the weights.
**Organize my closet for GOOD!!!
**Figure out to do with the third bedroom (and I might paint it)
**Get my hair cut and colored
**Deep clean my house
**Get my plate back (only a couple of you will understand this one!!!)
That's all I've got for now....good night!!!
Monday, December 15, 2008
God with us
I must have sensed when I woke up this morning that today was going to be a heavy day for my heart. When I got dressed, I wore my little "Peace On Earth" long-sleeve T-shirt from Old Navy (everyone at school is wearing Christmas shirts with jeans). Then, I put my silver necklace on that has the word "Rest" engraved on it. When I paid for my coffee at Quik Trip, the cashier asked about me what my necklace meant. I simply told him that it was a reminder for me to just relax and to not worry about every piece of minutia. He then said, "And gurrrl, your shirt has the word 'peace' on it. You must really need to be reminded to chill out!" Thank you random convenience store man who can apparently see right into my soul.
So I went to school. Nothing went horribly wrong. In fact, it was a busy, but good day. My mind is so pre-occupied with things when I am there that I don't have time to obsess over my personal issues.
But something hit me on the way home and I suddenly was overwhelmed. I started crying. What was going on here??? That's not really like me at all.
Thoughts started flooding my mind about how I was all alone. I am just a teacher and school is the only thing I have in my life. And a lot of the time, I question whether I'm even good at teaching. I will never get married because I don't work hard enough to meet people and would rather stay at home and make crafts (ha). My friends care for me but will eventually move on into other phases of life and won't be able to relate to me. My health issues are getting worse (some of you know more about that than others--it's not serious, but causes cosmetic changes). I have made so many mistakes and am destined to fall into old patterns. People from my past will never believe that my life has been changed. And on, and on it goes.
In an effort to drown out the noise, I put on some music. My ipod was on shuffle, but the first thing that came on was "Emmanuel: God with us" off of Amy Grant's "Home for Christmas" album. (stop hating on Amy, Michelle ;)
The verses are not particularly powerful and the chorus is simple. But hearing "Emmanuel, God with Us" over and over again brought such comfort to me today. What an amazing truth to know that God is with us. It is something that I have heard for most of my life but today, my heart took refuge in knowing that He is here. All of the time. With me. With you.
Nothing has magically changed. I will still battle thoughts of fear and inadequacy. I will still struggle with disappointment and dreams that are locked-down in a holding pattern for an indefinite amount of time. But I do not have to battle them alone. I am so thankful to have been given a simple reminder during this season about how the Word became flesh and lived among us (John 1:14).
So I went to school. Nothing went horribly wrong. In fact, it was a busy, but good day. My mind is so pre-occupied with things when I am there that I don't have time to obsess over my personal issues.
But something hit me on the way home and I suddenly was overwhelmed. I started crying. What was going on here??? That's not really like me at all.
Thoughts started flooding my mind about how I was all alone. I am just a teacher and school is the only thing I have in my life. And a lot of the time, I question whether I'm even good at teaching. I will never get married because I don't work hard enough to meet people and would rather stay at home and make crafts (ha). My friends care for me but will eventually move on into other phases of life and won't be able to relate to me. My health issues are getting worse (some of you know more about that than others--it's not serious, but causes cosmetic changes). I have made so many mistakes and am destined to fall into old patterns. People from my past will never believe that my life has been changed. And on, and on it goes.
In an effort to drown out the noise, I put on some music. My ipod was on shuffle, but the first thing that came on was "Emmanuel: God with us" off of Amy Grant's "Home for Christmas" album. (stop hating on Amy, Michelle ;)
The verses are not particularly powerful and the chorus is simple. But hearing "Emmanuel, God with Us" over and over again brought such comfort to me today. What an amazing truth to know that God is with us. It is something that I have heard for most of my life but today, my heart took refuge in knowing that He is here. All of the time. With me. With you.
Nothing has magically changed. I will still battle thoughts of fear and inadequacy. I will still struggle with disappointment and dreams that are locked-down in a holding pattern for an indefinite amount of time. But I do not have to battle them alone. I am so thankful to have been given a simple reminder during this season about how the Word became flesh and lived among us (John 1:14).
Sunday, December 14, 2008
i should be sleeping
However, I'm still awake and watching the Cowboys. ***By the way, if you go to the Lewisville Albertson's on a game day and wear a jersey, you get 10% off of your purchase***
The weekend just flew by and I really feel that I have anything to show for these past two days. However, I guess it's important to rest up and prepare for the LAST SCHOOL WEEK of 2008. Wahoo!!
My roommate, Corrie, ran the White Rock Half today. I was going to do it but waited too late to register. Apparently, they had to close it down this year! So, I was sad that I couldn't do it but decided today that I am going to enter one race a month. It looks like the first one will be the "Too Cold to Hold" in January. It's a 15k. Anyone interested? After that, I think I'll do the Cowtown half marathon at the end of February. So, that's that! I have got to get serious about amping up the workouts if I want to achieve my purely superficial goal of being hot-at-30. ;)
Just a little update on the "hope deferred". Yes, Rebekah--it involved a boy. But, I am really at such peace about my decision and God has been so sweet. I am just trying to remember that He is better. But, it's still sucks sometimes.
This blog is a bit random but what can I say? I was just in the mood to blog. Oh wait! The Cowboys just scored again!! This game is going better than expected.
Ok. Hope you all have a great week!!
The weekend just flew by and I really feel that I have anything to show for these past two days. However, I guess it's important to rest up and prepare for the LAST SCHOOL WEEK of 2008. Wahoo!!
My roommate, Corrie, ran the White Rock Half today. I was going to do it but waited too late to register. Apparently, they had to close it down this year! So, I was sad that I couldn't do it but decided today that I am going to enter one race a month. It looks like the first one will be the "Too Cold to Hold" in January. It's a 15k. Anyone interested? After that, I think I'll do the Cowtown half marathon at the end of February. So, that's that! I have got to get serious about amping up the workouts if I want to achieve my purely superficial goal of being hot-at-30. ;)
Just a little update on the "hope deferred". Yes, Rebekah--it involved a boy. But, I am really at such peace about my decision and God has been so sweet. I am just trying to remember that He is better. But, it's still sucks sometimes.
This blog is a bit random but what can I say? I was just in the mood to blog. Oh wait! The Cowboys just scored again!! This game is going better than expected.
Ok. Hope you all have a great week!!
Saturday, December 13, 2008
i'm it!!
Melissa tagged me with this fun little Christmas Survey, so here goes....
- 1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? gift bags....i can't properly wrap a present to save my life. My brother, Matthew, always has to wrap my presents for me.
- 2. Real tree or Artificial? artificial. I am too afraid of a fire with the real ones.
- 3. When do you put up the tree? The Friday or Sat. after Thanksgiving
- 4. When do you take the tree down? after New Year's
- 5. Do you like eggnog? Yes. I first tried it during a Hall meeting in college. I have never had "real" eggnog, though. Just the stuff from the grocery store
- 6. Favorite gift received as a child? I would have to say my ten speed bike when I was about 10 years old.
- 7. Hardest person to buy for? Parents
- 8. Easiest person to buy for? Matthew
- 9. Do you have a nativity scene? I had a little ceramic one but I recently broke the Baby Jesus. He is kind of an important part of that whole thing so I took everything else down :(
- 10. Mail or email Christmas cards? By mail
- 11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? silk, flowered lounging pajamas. Seriously, they look like something Bea Arthur would wear on the "Golden Girls".
- 12. Favorite Christmas Movie? National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. I just watched it last night with Hillary and Martin ;)
- 13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Good question. Usually the day before Christmas Eve. Matthew and I buy our parents' gifts together but I have to wait for him to get into town. We don't really have anyone else to buy for so that's about it!
- 14. Have you ever re-gifted a Christmas present? No
- 15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? I just kind of graze on the snack foods....party trash, these little cheese crackers, and my Aunt Gina's caramel corn.
- 16. Lights on the tree? White
- 17. Favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night
- 18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? stay home fo sho
- 19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Rudolph, Donner, Blitzen, Cupid, Vixen, Dancer, Prancer, Comet...is that all??? And no, I did NOT Google.
- 20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star
- 21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning
- 22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?people just seem to be shorter with you at the stores...everyone seems to lose perspective on the reason for Christmas
- 23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I have a teal/aqua/light blue theme on the tree. I am kind of anti-red & green
- 24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? I guess green bean casserole or stuffing...again, I'm a snacker!
- 25. What do you want for Christmas this year? a sewing machine
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