It's Nannying Time!!

Quick & Delicious

2011-09-09T20:57:00.003-04:00

I love couscous! That may be a silly thing to say, but it's just so yummy, I can't help it. ;) I have recently discovered Israeli/Pearl couscous, and it has quickly become my favorite. While it is super delish eaten hot with meat and veggies, I love to turn it into a cold salad, because it's soooo yummy and healthy!

Alright so here is my "recipe" for a quick and delicious Couscous salad:

~ 1 box of Israeli couscous, cooked, and cooled down
~ 2-3 grilled chicken breasts, cut into bite size pieces, cooled
~ fresh crisp veggies, diced (I love cucumbers, red or yellow peppers, and white or red onion)
~ your favorite creamy salad dressing (Trader Joe's Greek Feta Dressing is the shiz, and will pretty much season the salad perfectly. Ranch dressing works well too, but I found I needed to add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and white vinegar for the flavor to really pop.)
~ crumbly cheese, like feta, blue, or parmesan (optional)

Combine the couscous, chicken, and veggies in a large bowl and mix together.
Add the dressing a little bit at a time, stirring everything together, until it's as moist as you would like it to be.
Taste test - add any salt, pepper, garlic, etc. if needed.
Add/top with cheese, if using.
Refrigerate for at least an hour, so the flavors can really soak in. I'm not quite that patient, but I definitely notice better flavors when I have the left-overs the next day.

You can serve it with some bread, or on top of some leafy greens, if you like, but I just like it served in a mug with a spoon. :)
Bon Appetit!

Today

2011-09-01T13:06:00.002-04:00

This video is stunning, Kristen Stewart is lovely in it, and the song itself really resonates with me today...

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href='http://video.msn.com?vid=2e3fd9ff-87ef-410c-b40b-b01e5613f334&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;mkt=en-gb&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;src=FLPl:embed::uuids' target='_new' title='MSN Exclusive: Marcus Foster - I Was Broken' &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Video: MSN Exclusive: Marcus Foster - I Was Broken&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Recipe Update

2011-08-26T19:46:00.003-04:00

So I tried this recipe again tonight, and went for a "primavera" style with grilled chicken on top. It turned out amazing! :)

After reading the pasta boxes, I decided to go with a linguine noodle - it's not as thick as the fettuccine, but not as thin as the angel hair, and is a good fit for cream sauces. I made the sauce just like the last time, but this time, when I returned the sauce to the skillet I added corn, peas, and carrots (which I sliced into strips and blanched in the water with the pasta, for the last 5 mins) before adding the parmesan cheese.

Add a couple of slices of french baguette and you are set for a great meal! My mom loved it too. ;)

Thank You Trader Joe's Cashier...

2011-06-01T10:44:00.003-04:00

So the other day when I was out grocery shopping, I never expected to be told about a life changing sandwich... But that is truly what happened.

Patrick, my cashier at Trader Joe's (who hopefully doesn't mind me using his real name), noticed I was buying pimento cheese (srsly TJ's is THE SHIZ!), and he asked me if I'd ever made a.... wait for it... GRILLED PIMENTO CHEESE SANDWICH!!

I know, right?! I too was struck by the "why did I not think of that before?!" factor. I mean it is cheese after all, and the grilled cheese is the all-American sandwich. Well Patrick continued to tell me that he, like "most Yankees," doesn't really like pimento cheese (Attention any Yankee readers: Is this true?! Y'all ARE CRAZY! Go eat some pimento cheese for goodness sakes!). But, his wife convinced him to try the Grilled Pimento Cheese Sandwich at their local pub, and he was converted right then and there! So, of course I HAD to have it for dinner that night! Now, the only bread I had at home was Russian black bread, which I was afraid would over power the pimento cheese, but TJ's is really flavorful because they use aged white cheddar and a bit of cayenne pepper, so I took the chance...

First I had to decide between my George Foreman Grill, or my cast iron skillet. I decided to go pure old school, and picked the skillet. I put it on the stove to heat up, and melted a little butter in it to swirl my bread around in (I think it works better than trying to spread the butter on the bread, because my bread always crumbles). Then I assembled my sandwich, placed it in the heated skillet, and put a lid on top. I find this helps make sure all the cheese melts, and you don't end up with a cold, un-melted middle.

So each side needs about 2-3 mins depending on the type of bread you use and the thickness of the slices. Russian black bread can be a little dry, compared to other bread, so a little more time with the lid on helped soften it as well. Ok once the sandwich was cooked, I removed it from the skillet and placed it on my bamboo cutting board, where I let it set for a minute before cutting it in half, on the diagonal of course. I seriously could not wait to taste it... and it was AMAZING!

Seriously, I want to try so many other combos now - different bread, different pimento cheese. I think it would be amazing on sourdough or Italian bread, with a more traditional pimento cheese... Yum! Leave a comment if you have a combo you think I should try - especially if you've made one before or had one out at the pub. I want to hear your experience!

A Recipe...

2011-05-31T00:35:00.002-04:00

or as I am now calling it - A Revelation!

Do you like guacamole? You know, the yummy green stuff at Mexican restaurants made from avocado?! Ok good. Now, how you ever made it yourself?! Oh you have... well then I guess I'm the only doofus that hadn't until this month! Seriously, what took me so long?! Best. Snack. Ever!

So, on the off chance there are other people out there like me who have not make their own guac (yeah it's cool enough to get it's own nickname), I present you with my simple, versatile, and extremely delicious recipe!

Simple & Delicious Guac

Ingredients:
1/2 onion, roughly chopped
2 extremely ripe avocados*
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 lime
dash of salt
dash of black or white pepper
1 tblsp. olive oil**
splash of white vinegar**

Appliances:
Food processor

Step 1: Put the onion in the food processor and pulse the life out of it. You want the onion to basically be pulversized, so all the juices come out, and so you don't get a giant bite of onion (unless you like that, then you can mince up some extra onion to stir in at the end).

Step 2: Peel and remove pit from avocado. Place the avocado in the food processor; add the garlic. Pulse until smooth.

Step 3: Place avocado mixture into bowl (preferably one that has a tight fitting lid). Squeeze the juice of the lime, salt, and pepper into guac and stir. If using, add oil and vinegar as well. Cover with lid (if possible let out as much air as you can), and refrigerate for 10-15 mins, or until cold.

Step 4: Serve with chips and enjoy!

*My avocado was in the fridge for like two weeks, because I kept forgetting to use it. Best accident ever actually, so you're going to want to buy your avocados in advance. It seems to be difficult to find soft ones at the store, so don't expect to go out today and have guac tonight. Apparently you can quicken the ripening process by placing the avocados in a paper bag with an apple or banana (or both). I have not tried this, but many people on Google tell me it is so (and the internets never lie, right?!).

**If you don't expect any leftovers, omit these ingredients, as they are for preservation purposes only. The oil and vinegar slow down the browning of the avocados.

Now, that was just my recipe using what I had around the house. This recipe is pretty versatile, IMO, so here are some suggestions of things to add:

-Cilantro: I actually have cilantro now, and plan to add some to the next guac I make.
-Jalapeno (or any other peppers): Want an extra kick? Throw in some peppers!
-Tomato: This is a fairly common addition to some guacamole. I don't really like them, so I didn't add them.
-Black Beans
-Corn

Really, you can add pretty much whatever you think will be tasty! :)

Leave a comment if you have a guac recipe I should try, or an extra ingredient I just have to add. Enjoy!

MC: Day 30

2011-04-28T10:31:00.000-04:00

day 30 - your favorite song at this time last year

Ack, seriously? My brain can't remember that far back!! Lol *Goes checks iTunes downloads and YouTube favorites* Ok so I'll have to do two, 'cause yeah...

#1: I thought the girl was Haley from Paramore the first time I heard this song on the radio. When I found out it was Demi I had to give the girl props...

#2: I know what everyone says about this girl and this movie, but honestly, I loved this song and the movie... Still do. Don't hate! :P

And thus ends another 30 Day Challenge. Hope you all enjoyed my music choices, and even if you didn't, I hope you at least enjoyed checking them out every day. ;) Thanks for joining me on this adventure - it was a blast!

MC: Day 29

2011-04-27T10:26:00.002-04:00

day 29 - a song from your childhood

Come on now, you know you loved this song too! When my local radio station does '90s weekends now, they play this song and I roll down my windows and BLAST it! It makes me super happy... ;)

MC: Day 28

2011-04-26T10:20:00.002-04:00

day 28 - a song that makes you feel guilty

So I used to have to sing this when my family was going around raising support for the mission field. The second verse ALWAYS made me feel guilty, and I would try and sing it softer. Lol

MC: Day 27

2011-04-25T10:17:00.000-04:00

day 27 - a song that you wish you could play

I really looove this song. Not only do I wish I could play it, but I wish I could sing it as amazingly as she does. *sigh*

MC: Day 26

2011-04-24T10:15:00.002-04:00

day 26 - a song that you can play on an instrument

Why yes, I can play this on the flute. ;) Have a whole book of Disney songs, but this is the one that I conquered first.

MC: Day 25

2011-04-23T10:10:00.002-04:00

day 25 - a song that makes you laugh

Lmao oh man this song makes me laugh like CRAY CRAY!! Mostly 'cause it's true, and just because he's so ridiculous. ;)
(FYI: Contains some language that is not suitable for work or small children.)

MC: Day 24

2011-04-22T10:42:00.001-04:00

day 24 - a song that you want to play at your funeral

I think it speaks for itself...

MC: Day 23

2011-04-21T12:05:00.001-04:00

day 23 - a song that you want to play at your wedding

And cue the swoonage... Because really, this song and this man are AMAZING!

MC: Day 22

2011-04-20T09:58:00.003-04:00

day 22 - a song that you listen to when you’re sad

Apparently I love angsty songs when I'm sad...

MC: Day 21

2011-04-19T10:46:00.002-04:00

day 21 - a song that you listen to when you’re happy

How can you not feel happier listening to this song?! It's just so fun and peppy!!

MC: Day 20

2011-04-18T11:09:00.001-04:00

day 20 - a song that you listen to when you’re angry

Ah teen angst... Seriously, Avril has the best songs for when you're angry. Lol I typically blast her entire Under My Skin album, because it takes more than one song to get me out of my funk when I'm angry. Honestly I don't get angry that often though. ;)

MC: Day 19

2011-04-17T10:25:00.003-04:00

day 19 - a song from your favorite album

Wow another tough challenge! One favorite album?? Really?! Me thinks that is impossible. So I decided to pick two albums. ;) Hey, my blog, my rules, right? Lol

#1: Spring Awakening Soundtrack - Original Broadway Cast of course
(And I have to post two songs, so enjoy!)

I mean seriously Lea Michelle?! A-freakin'-mazing!

#2: Just Say The Word - Josh Kelley
Really, I love every album by this man, but I think this one is top of the list. And of course the title track is completely swoon worthy.

MC: Day 18

2011-04-16T11:15:00.001-04:00

day 18 - a song that you wish you heard on the radio

So this band is a newer discovery for me, but I ADORE their album!! You should definitely check them out if you've not heard them. :)

MC: Day 17

2011-04-15T11:12:00.002-04:00

day 17 - a song that you hear often on the radio

Ok this song is really getting overplayed...

MC: Day 16

2011-04-14T10:48:00.003-04:00

day 16 - a song that you used to love but now hate

I don't really have songs that I hate, just ones that I get tired of because their over played/used/etc. So this was really a challenge for me, and while I don't hate this song, it's just kind of become comical now... *hits chest with fist overly dramatically*

Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Titanic, and Celine, but I dunno it's just not the same. Please don't hate me... ;)

MC: Day 15

2011-04-13T10:13:00.001-04:00

day 15 - a song that describes you

MC: Day 14

2011-04-12T11:48:00.000-04:00

day 14 - a song that no one would expect you to love

I don't know why, but I really love this song, and I don't think people would expect that of me. LOL

MC: Day 13

2011-04-11T11:39:00.004-04:00

day 13 - a song that is a guilty pleasure

Hehehe I know, I know, but come on it's such a fun song! Even if she's kind of a wreck in the video... ;)

MC: Day 12

2011-04-10T11:27:00.001-04:00

day 12 - a song from a band you hate

I won't say that I "hate" this band, but I definitely change the station when one of their songs comes on the radio. LOL

The random "I'm Bored" post:

2011-04-10T00:17:00.004-04:00

Yeah so I'm bored, but it's Saturday night and I'm not quite ready for bed. Hence this post of randomness. Bear with me, and really, I'll understand if you choose not to read any farther, because honestly I can't tell you what to expect...

I like to talk in a British accent sometimes (but really, who doesn't?!). I think I sound a bit like Russel Brand though, which is just...well awkward really, because I'm not a dude.
I need to buy a bookcase from Ikea. I've been meaning to buy it for like a year now. They bumped the price down by $10 from last year (2009 really), so I wonder if they'll do that again this year... Maybe I should wait, 'cause I'd be really pissed if I buy it and like a month later it goes down $10 more.
I'm job searching. It sucks. Wish I could win the lottery instead.
I missed my mom a lot this week. Mainly because it seems to be the week of weird things happening to me, her, other people, etc. So yeah...
Anyone want to clean my house for me? I'm highly allergic to dust, and cleaning makes me sick... I don't wanna be sick... Anybody? Yeah didn't think so...
My friend invited me to go to Kazakhstan with her... I wish I could go... It would feel weird after all these years, but at the same time it could be fabulous.
I'm feeling dissatisfied quite a bit these days...
I need to find someone to mow my lawn. It's not a large lawn, so I don't want to pay like $100/month for 20 mins of work. What happened to the neighborhood kid that would mow your lawn for $5 and a glass of lemonade? If you know one, 'could you send him my way? Thanks.

Ok I think that's all for now. My brain is starting to shut down and head towards sleepy town... Good night y'all <3

MC: Day 11

2011-04-09T11:14:00.000-04:00

day 11 - a song from your favorite band

Seriously, this song just speaks to my soul.

MC: Day 10

2011-04-08T11:12:00.001-04:00

day 10 - a song that makes you fall asleep

This artist is a new discovery, but his music relaxes me so much that I have it on my playlist that I listen to at night to fall asleep. This is one of my faves. :)

MC: Day 09

2011-04-07T10:41:00.002-04:00

day 09 - a song that you can dance to

I love this song so much, and Shakira is an amazing belly-dancer and performer.

MC: Day 08

2011-04-06T11:00:00.000-04:00

day 08 - a song that you know all the words to

I sing my little heart out to this song!!

MC: Day 07

2011-04-05T23:38:00.002-04:00

day 07 - a song that reminds you of a certain event

This song reminds me of my road trip to Dallas, TX with Justin! We had a little car karaoke to this song on the way home. ;) It was fun times...

MC: Day 06

2011-04-04T23:31:00.002-04:00

day 06 - a song that reminds you of somewhere

So this song reminds me of being in the van on the way to senior retreat, with half my HS senior class. Oh, good times!!

MC: Day 05

2011-04-03T22:23:00.003-04:00

day 05 - a song that reminds you of someone

So, when this album came out, I bought it, listened to it, and went, "Omg did Avril steal Nicole's life?!" This song especially reminded me of Nicole at the time. ;)

Rock out y'all!

MC: Day 04

2011-04-02T23:41:00.004-04:00

day 04 - a song that makes you sad

Whenever I need a good cry, I put on this song and grab the tissues.

MC: Day 03

2011-04-01T23:07:00.002-04:00

day 03 - a song that makes you happy

This song never fails to make me happy!

Hit play and prepare to SMILE! :D

MC: Day 02

2011-03-31T23:11:00.002-04:00

day 02 - your least favorite song

Well yet another day I risk the wrath of my readers... LOL

So I don't know if it's just from years of singing this song in church or what, but to this day I cannot stand this song! Call it blasphemous, I do not care, but here is my least favorite song for your..er..."enjoyment."

MC: Day 01

2011-03-30T23:02:00.006-04:00

day 01 - your favorite song

Ok, so I have a ton of favorite songs, because well MUSIC in general is my favorite thing ever! However, I will only post two, but I'm posting two because I know I'm gonna get flack for the first one, so I hope to redeem myself with the second song. ;)

Favorite song #1:

Don't hate...

Favorite song #2:

Really, anything by this man is amaaazing, but I had this one on repeat for weeks after the CD came out. :)

30 Day Challenge: Music Edition

2011-03-30T22:35:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I'm lacking inspiration since my previous 30 day challenge... It's been cold and rainy here in the great state of Georgia, and it drained all my happy-beach-time-tanning-goodness out of me, like WHOA. So I'm stealing this from Facebook (of course), in the effort to supply some musical inspiration for you and me! Wish me luck, and join in if you feel inclined. :) Leave a comment if you do, so I can be inspired by your music as well.

30 Day Song Challenge:
day 01 - your favorite song
day 02 - your least favorite song
day 03 - a song that makes you happy
day 04 - a song that makes you sad
day 05 - a song that reminds you of someone
day 06 - a song that reminds you of somewhere
day 07 - a song that reminds you of a certain event
day 08 - a song that you know all the words to
day 09 - a song that you can dance to
day 10 - a song that makes you fall asleep
day 11 - a song from your favorite band
day 12 - a song from a band you hate
day 13 - a song that is a guilty pleasure
day 14 - a song that no one would expect you to love
day 15 - a song that describes you
day 16 - a song that you used to love but now hate
day 17 - a song that you hear often on the radio
day 18 - a song that you wish you heard on the radio
day 19 - a song from your favorite album
day 20 - a song that you listen to when you’re angry
day 21 - a song that you listen to when you’re happy
day 22 - a song that you listen to when you’re sad
day 23 - a song that you want to play at your wedding
day 24 - a song that you want to play at your funeral
day 25 - a song that makes you laugh
day 26 - a song that you can play on an instrument
day 27 - a song that you wish you could play
day 28 - a song that makes you feel guilty
day 29 - a song from your childhood
day 30 - your favorite song at this time last year

Home, & A Recipe

2011-03-05T16:23:00.004-05:00

Well, I am home from Thailand and crazy exhausted/jet-lagged, of course. I pretty much slept all day Friday, which wasn't the best idea, but like I said, I was exhausted. LOL Anyways, today I'm just relaxing at home, doing laundry, unpacking, etc. But a girl's gotta eat, right?
So I go to the fridge/freezer to see what I have - not much, obviously, since I just got back from a two week trip, but enough that a plan forms in my head. This plan turned out to be pretty darn amazing, if I do say so myself, and so I thought, "I must share this "recipe" with the world!!" Of course, I don't really have world-wide domination [yet], but onto to blog it goes. :)

I'm going to call this the "Creamy, Hearty Pasta Sauce" because well, I'm jet-lagged and that's about as creative as I can get at this point... ;)
Ingredients:
water
1 tomato
1 tblsp. olive oil
1 tblsp. butter
1/4 onion, diced
basil
oregano
black pepper
salt
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 pint of heavy cream
1/2 yellow pepper, diced
chicken stock or broth
parmesan cheese

*Also, you'll need a blender*

Step 1: Boil enough water to cover the tomato. I used an electric kettle, then placed the tomato in a measuring cup (bowl works too) and poured the water on top. Cover with a plate or something to keep the heat in. Leave it soaking while you prep everything else. You're doing two things: 1) softening the tomato skin so you can peel it & 2) warming up the tomato.

Step 2: Heat oil in skillet on med-high heat. When hot add onions & stir. Add butter & stir. Cook 2-3 mins, stirring occasionally so they don't stick or burn. Add salt, pepper, oregano, & basil. Keep stirring. Cook approx. 5 more mins, until the onions have softened a bit and the spices are smelling really good. Add the garlic, stir and cook another 2-3 mins.

Step 3: Add the heavy cream. Bring up to a boil and reduce heat to med. Keep stirring, and watching, because cream will boil over if you're not careful. Add yellow pepper, stir and bring back to boil again. Continue cooking the cream mixture for approx 8-10mins until it thickens up a bit.
While sauce is thickening, remove the tomato from its bath, pull the skin and top off, and place it in the blender.

Step 4: Add a splash of the chicken stock/broth to the thickened cream mixture (approx. 2-3 tblsps.), and stir. Pour cream mixture into blender, over the tomato. Blend mixture on the "Puree" setting, until everything seems mixed together well (2-3 mins). Pour back into skillet. Stir in 3-4 tblsp. of parmesan cheese, add to your pasta, top with a little more parmesan, and voila!

I had mine with ravioli, and while good, I think the filling over powered the sauce a bit. So, here are a few suggestions on how to use this sauce:
~ Toss with steamed veggies (peas, carrots, asparagus, etc.) and angel hair pasta, for a "Pasta Primavera" style meal.
~ Toss with linguine or fettuccine pasta, and top with grilled chicken.
~ Add some ground sausage or turkey and toss with spaghetti pasta.

Let me know if you try this out, if you enjoyed it, and what kind of combo you used or came up with! Bon Appetit!

PC - Day 30

2011-02-26T10:02:00.001-05:00

Day 30 - A picture of someone you miss:

I miss you... I miss this. Bffs 4 ever <3

So that completes this 30 Day Photo Challenge! Thank goodness for scheduled posts, or I don't think I would have succeeded... Hope you all have enjoyed this little photo experience. :) See you when I get back from Thailand!

PC - Day 29

2011-02-25T10:30:00.003-05:00

Day 29 - A picture that can always make you smile:

This is me and my friend Justin, and we call this look "Extreme Botox Face!" LOL What can I say? It's our "thing." ;)

PC - Day 28

2011-02-24T10:30:00.000-05:00

Day 28 - A picture of something you're afraid of:

So I have this slightly illogical fear of drowning. It's not debilitating, thank goodness, because I love the water! Also, I'm an excellent swimmer. So, I don't really know why I have this fear, it's just that I think it would be an awful way to die...

PC - Day 27

2011-02-23T10:30:00.003-05:00

Day 27 - A picture of yourself and a family member:

Mom and I riding an elephant on my 2009 visit to Thailand. :)

PC - Day 26

2011-02-22T10:30:00.003-05:00

Day 26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you:

Right now my passport means a lot to me, because it has helped me travel to some pretty amazing places! :)

PC - Day 25

2011-02-21T10:30:00.003-05:00

Day 25 - A picture of your day:

Spent the morning at this beach in Thailand... Amazing.

PC - Day 24

2011-02-20T10:30:00.003-05:00

Day 24 - A picture of something you wish you could change:

I'm single, and mostly good with that...But I have life dreams and goals that I can't achieve alone. So I would like to change my "relationship status." So, I'm looking for love and hoping it's my time, my turn...

PC - Day 23

2011-02-19T10:30:00.001-05:00

Day 23 - A picture of your favorite book:

Do I really have to explain this one? ...Didn't think so. If you've never read this series, RUN, do not walk, to your local bookstore/library and get this series. You will not regret it!

PC - Day 22

2011-02-18T10:16:00.001-05:00

Day 22 - A picture of something you wish you were better at:

Dance is something I love and wish I had been given the opportunity to pursue from childhood. Alas it was something out of my control, so now I take classes for fun, live for So You Think You Can Dance, and enjoy dance as a spectator.

PC - Day 21

2011-02-17T10:30:00.004-05:00

Day 21 - A picture of something you wish you could forget:

I don't want to forget anything. I want to remember everything, because even in the darkest moments there's something to be learned. If we forget, then we lose what might have made us that much better.

PC - Day 20

2011-02-16T10:30:00.004-05:00

Day 20 - A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel:

Venice, Italy... Need I say more?

PC - Day 19

2011-02-15T13:11:00.002-05:00

Day 19 - A picture and a letter:

Dear Khao Lak Beach,
I am so looking forward to getting to know you next week. Your beauty is overwhelming, and I am so blessed to be able to visit you. Please save me a perfect spot for relaxing on your lovely sand. I also plan to do some snorkeling, and if you could inform the fish so they can prepare for my arrival, I would be oh so obliged. See you soon!
With love and excitement,
Christin

PC - Day 18

2011-02-14T20:21:00.003-05:00

Day 18 - A picture of your biggest insecurity:

...Yeah we have a no love relationship...

PC - Day 17

2011-02-13T21:02:00.002-05:00

Day 17 - A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently:
Discovering belly dance has made an impact on my life! I love taking classes, and it's a form of exercise I actually look forward too. I haven't been able to take classes the past few months, but I cannot wait to get back to it asap. :)

PC - Day 16

2011-02-12T21:06:00.003-05:00

Day 16 - A picture of someone who inspires you:

Mia Michaels - Amaaaazing choreographer! I love her on SYTYCD. She is my favorite judge, and her pieces usually make me lose my breath or cry. I am not a dancer, but she inspires me so much!!

PC - Day 15

2011-02-11T21:52:00.004-05:00

Day 15 - A picture of something you want to do before you die:

Spend the summer in Santorini, Greece! Ever since watching Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, it has been my dream to visit the Greek Isles, especially Santorini. *sigh* Now if only I had Greek relatives...

PC - Day 14

2011-02-10T13:25:00.001-05:00

Day 14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without:

Once again that would be my mom. She has been a great influence on my life, and I've had some amazing adventures thanks to her. This is from my trip to visit her in Thailand over Christmas Break 2009. I think it's my favorite picture of her, because even the elephants love her!

PC - Day 13

2011-02-09T16:35:00.002-05:00

Day 13 - A picture of your favorite band or artist:

It's *Nsync, for those of you going, "Whoooo?!" LOL I know they don't make music anymore, but they will forever be my favorite band. However, I feel like there should be a disclaimer just to let you know that I also love other musicians such as Josh Kelley, Lifehouse, Andrea Bocelli, Rihanna, etc. etc. So don't hate, kthnx!

PC - Day 12

2011-02-08T23:09:00.002-05:00

Day 12 - A picture of something you love:

I love: Puppies & Funny Captions

There's nothing better to brighten up your day then cute puppy pictures with funny captions! Thank you LOLDogs for this brilliantly simple idea. :D

PC - Day 11

2011-02-07T17:43:00.003-05:00

Day 11 - A picture of something you hate:

Ugh... Seriously there are very few things I actually hate, but BUGS top the list. Especially roaches and spiders! *shudder*

PC - Day 10

2011-02-06T18:38:00.005-05:00

Day 10 - A picture of the person/people you do the craziest stuff with:

Pic #1: Take a road trip to Dallas, TX just to eat at Central 214? CHECK!
Pic #2: Hit up a "prom" theme corporate Christmas party in over-the-top attire? CHECK!
Pic #3: ...Well this one kind of speaks for itself...

To summarize, my friends are the people I do the craziest stuff with, because that's what we are - C.R.A.Z.Y!!

PC - Day 09

2011-02-05T15:04:00.003-05:00

Day 09 - A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most:

That would be my mom. :) Seriously, she's the best! We may drive each other nuts sometimes, but I wouldn't be who I am today without her.

PC - Day 08

2011-02-04T22:06:00.000-05:00

Day 08 - A picture that makes you laugh:

I wish I could take credit for this photo, but alas this was sent to me from from my friend Mandi while she was bored one day at work. The caption: "It's hunting time!" LOL Seriously best thing to brighten a crappy day...

PC - Day 07

2011-02-03T23:28:00.003-05:00

Day 07 - A picture of your most treasured item:

I know, technically these are "items," but my personal library is my most treasured item. I was going to get all cheese-tastic and post pictures of my friends, but they know how freaking fantastic they are already... At least I hope they do! {Psst, peeps: YOU'RE FREAKING FANTASTIC!!}

PC - Day 06

2011-02-02T23:30:00.004-05:00

Day 06 - A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day:

Ok so I'm going to be totally silly and fan-girlie with this one. This is Bar Refaeli. Aside from being a beautiful model, she just happens to be Leonard DiCaprio's girlfriend!! Oh yeah I went there - it would be a tween dream come true... LOL

PC - Day 05

2011-02-01T22:17:00.000-05:00

Day 05 - A picture of your favorite memory:

Obviously it's way too hard to pick just one favorite memory! So, I decided, since it's been over a year since I blogged, I would pick one of my favorite memories from that time.
On Thanksgiving Day 2009, my mom moved to Thailand for work. That Christmas I got to go and spend two weeks with her. The above picture is me with two baby elephants at the elephant camp we visited. They were SO precious!! I wish I could have brought one home with me... Anyways, each elephant is paired with their own trainer, for life, and they form this amazing bond. Also, we got to see them paint, which was pretty fantastic as well!

PC - Day 04

2011-01-31T17:12:00.001-05:00

Day 04 - A picture of your night:

So, I don't have an actual picture of my night, but this basically covers it. LOL I am working overnight through Thursday and this is what I deal with... Yeah exactly. Pray for me! ;)

PC - Day 03

2011-01-30T13:18:00.004-05:00

Day 03: A picture of the cast from your favorite show:

Grey's Anatomy: I've been a fan since the beginning, and will continue to be a fan... Well for as long as the main cast members stay around anyways!

PC - Day 02

2011-01-29T22:46:00.003-05:00

Day 02 - A picture of you and the person you have been closest with the longest:

So, this is my best friend Crystal & I at my 26th B-Day celebration! We've been friends since forever, sisters from another misses/mister even! I don't know what I would do without her in my life, and I'm so glad she decided to befriend the "new kid" that day in the 4th grade. ;) Oh and in case you're wondering, yes we just might be lushes, but at least we're lushes together!! CHEERS!

Photo Challenge - Day 01

2011-01-28T17:42:00.005-05:00

Day 01: Picture of yourself & 10 facts:

01. I love 80s movies! Particularly 16 Candles, The Goonies, The Princess Bride, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, & Back to the Future I-III.
02. I love books, and it's an addiction I'm proud of.
03. I'm an optimistic realist.
04. I suck at math & science.
05. I love the flexibility my job provides, but not the financial insecurity.
06. I am SO over Winter - bring on Summer!
07. I could never live without music.
08. I've always wanted to learn sign language - I know my alphabet, and a few minor signs, but I'd love to know more.
09. I love to cook, but hate the clean up.
10. Sometimes I wish I was a mermaid.

30 Day Photo Challenge

2011-01-28T17:10:00.004-05:00

In an effort to get back into the habit of blogging, I am undertaking this 30 Day Photo Challenge posted by Random Thoughts ! This will be fun! Leave me a note if you start your own Challenge.

Days:
01 - A picture of yourself with ten facts

02 - A picture of you and the person you have been closest with the longest

03 - A picture of the cast from your favorite show
04 - A picture of your night
05 - A picture of your favorite memory
06 - A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day
07 - A picture of your most treasured item
08 - A picture that makes you laugh
09 - A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most
10 - A picture of the person you do the craziest stuff with
11 - A picture of something you hate
12 - A picture of something you love
13 - A picture of your favorite band or artist
14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without
15 - A picture of something you want to do before you die
16 - A picture of someone who inspires you
17 - A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently
18 - A picture of your biggest insecurity
19 - A picture and a letter
20 - A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel
21 - A picture of something you wish you could forget
22 - A picture of something you wish you were better at
23 - A picture of your favorite book
24 - A picture of something you wish you could change
25 - A picture of your day
26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you
27 - A picture of yourself and a family member
28 - A picture of something you're afraid of
29 - A picture that can always make you smile
30 - A picture of someone you miss

FAIL

2010-10-17T23:49:00.003-04:00

Wow I can't believe it's been over a year since I blogged last. That's pretty depressing, actually...
I've been busy, life's a changing, so I will have to catch y'all up (if there's anyone left out there)! Give me some time to gather my thoughts and check back again for the full scoop.

Song I'm kind of in love with...

2009-10-08T00:14:00.003-04:00

Yes I realize it's the Hannah Montana movie, but I just love this song, and can't stop listening to it! This whole scene made me cry, but it's just a really sweet moment... Enjoy!!

Movie Time!

2009-10-03T00:11:00.004-04:00

So I went to the movies tonight and before my movie they showed this trailer:

Looks AMAZING! And it was filmed here in Atlanta... :)

What I saw was "Whip It" -

SO AMAZING!! Go see it! Seriously, it's wonderful!!

Yet another year. . .

2009-08-18T23:17:00.003-04:00

Today was my birthday. I'm officially 27. . . It was one of those weekday birthdays where you can't really do much. On top of that I had to work in the morning, and on top of that I felt like crap. I did something to my back Sunday afternoon, and I haven't had time to go to the chiropractor. Also, all last week my allergies were CRAZY and now it's changed into a sinus thing - watery eyes, clogged nose - you know all the really fuuun stuff. . . I told the OC, "If I was a horse, they'd shoot me!" LOL

All in all though, it's been a decent birthday. All my friends have been texting/calling/facebooking me birthday wishes, my mom took me out for a good dinner (after a little birthday nap, of course) where I got a free dessert, which as you know makes everything so much better, and I'm feeling the love. :) So here's to another year, y'all!

And Happy Birthday to all you other August birthdays!! ♥♥

Hmmm. . .

2009-08-14T03:02:00.008-04:00

So, the decision has been made in regards to the YC's school placement. It was a last minute decision, that then changed again the next morning. . . Yes, you read that right! Monday night the decision was School B & K-prep class. Tuesday morning the husband called from the airport and had changed his mind. So now YC will be returning to School A, and their "4 yr. old" class. This throws a little bit of a wrench into my plans, but adjustments have been made, and it's going to be a busy year.

To be honest with you, I don't agree with the decision. Now before you get upset, I recognize that he is not my child, and so it doesn't really matter what I think, but I am his nanny, and I do think about these things. I'm afraid he's going to be completely bored and that this boredom will create more issues than were present last year. Maybe I'm wrong - in fact I hope that I am wrong, because as much as he can bring out the worst in me at times, I care about that little boy and his future. However, let's just say I'm glad I'm not the one taking him to school on the first day. I'm not really sure how he's going to react, because he's visited two other schools and told (at different times) that he's going to them. So it'll be interesting to see his reaction. He may not care, or even realize what's going on, but heaven help up if he does and doesn't like it! LOL

I will try and keep you posted! School A starts in two weeks, so he's got a little more summer left. The other two kids started on Monday and are getting back into the swing of things. The OC has an AP class this year, and she's freaking out that they already have a quiz [or test] tomorrow over their summer reading. The MC started middle school this year and everyday comes home with another "boy story!!" It's gonna be a fun ride this year. . . Stick around for it - I might need to hold your hand!!

It's been a while...

2009-08-08T20:16:00.003-04:00

Hello out there to anyone still stopping by this poor, neglected blog. ;) I realize I've been terrible at keeping this thing updated - so yes that means I failed one of my New Year's Resolutions... dang that makes me kind of sad... Oh well we live and learn, right? Honestly, one of the reasons I haven't written, is that things have been going well, Nanny wise. I tend to use this blog as a way to vent and get advice about situations, but things have been pretty smooth. Also, summers are always soooo sloooow, when it comes to work. The Fam goes out of town, and I turn into dog/house sitter. Which is actually pretty great, for me, because it's like my own little mini vacation! This summer has been pretty fun and amazing, and I cannot believe that school starts in two days!! *Shakes head in disbelief*

Things are still in a bit of a jumble, in regards to this school year. It's been determined that the YC, though now 5, is not yet ready for Kindergarten. For him it's more a maturity issue, then an academic one. And, as per usual, a decision has yet to be finalized as to where to send him. Private School A - where he went last year, and would yet again be in a "4 yr. old class" - originally considered by his mother until she discovered Private School B. Private School B has a "K-Prep" class where he would still get some of the kindergarten experience, but at a slower pace and with more free time. So now it's just a discussion between herself and her husband so they can come to a decision together. . . This is my least favorite part of being a Nanny. I've already lined up another nanny job (3 mornings/week) to make up for the time that I miss with YC in school, and I need to work out a start date with both families. This is my job, my livelihood, but I am left hanging on the edge waiting to see what's going to happen with this school decision.

It's a wee bit frustrating, to be perfectly honest. I need this year to be better. My mom plans to move to Thailand full time, in November, and that means I get full responsibility for the house, bills, etc., financially. I worked out a budget, planned out the hours, and was feeling really good about the decision to continue as a nanny this year. However, I need to be able to work for both families in order to be okay financially, and now I'm worried that some thing's going to happen to mess it all up. I'm just praying that by next week, all this will be worked out, smoothed out, and all will be back to "normal." (You know, whatever that means!)

Music

2009-05-24T00:15:00.003-04:00

So if you know me you know that I love music, like more then life itself really. iTunes is super dangerous for me because of all the wonderful music out there. Like seriously, I would go broke if my CC was linked up with them. Fortunately I am smartical and only use iTunes cards. Anyways I digress. . .

I recently got the Missy Higgins cd On A Clear Night and can I just say it = ♥ like majorly. The song I'm really feeling lately is called "Forgive Me." It's just an amazingly passionate song and it's a raw recording of it on the cd, so you really feel the passion and the desperation. I just had to share. Here's a good link for a live performance of this song (she's amazing!) -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSRKZHxdnnI

Here are the lyrics:

"Forgive Me"

Oh my son look at what I've done
But I am learning still
Learning still
Know that I am learning still
And oh my wife you are my life
And I am burning still
Burning still
Know that I am burning for you still

And all, all, all of my light is for you
And home, home's anywhere you are too
So take this one fallen man on his knees
Saying please forgive me

Oh my God how you make it hard
Not to pick the apple
Pick the apple
And Lord I long to give it back

And I was on shaky land
Lost and unsure I opened my hand
And she held it like sinking sand

And all, all, all of my light is for you
And home, home's anywhere you are too
So take this one fallen man on his knees
Saying please

All, all, all of my light is for you
And home, home's anywhere you are too
So take this one fallen man on his knees
Saying please forgive me
Forgive me
Forgive me

Week-long stay. . .

2009-04-24T00:20:00.002-04:00

Well this week I will be having a week-long overnight stay at work. I am keeping the kids while my boss goes out of town. It's been a while since I've done one of these, and I'm tired already just thinking about it! LOL I think things will go fine, it's just trying to remember who has which activity at what day/time/field/etc! My brain has been functioning at half power this week already, thanks to all the lovely yellow pollen outside. . . Can you feel the sarcasm there?
Anyways wish me luck, and if anything exciting happens I'll be sure to let you know!
Ciao all you lovely people!

Cuteness!!

2009-03-28T20:31:00.004-04:00

Ok yes I realize that I haven't been posting like I said I was going to, but honestly things are good. Of course there's always a taxing day (or 3), but overall, things in Nannyland are going well. However, I could hear my blog feeling all neglected, so I thought I'd post some things for fun and cuteness factor. :D Enjoy!!

see more dog and puppy pictures

see more dog and puppy pictures

And for any lurkers who are fans of the Spunk Ransom, I give you this:

Thank you GQ stylist. Thank you for putting this man in that suit, because it makes his eyes that much more glorious.

Want to join a book club??

2009-01-25T17:35:00.004-05:00

Have you always wanted to join a book club, but don't have time to attend meetings in person? Maybe all the friends you'd like to be in a club with, live far, far away from you. Well today I have your solution!! Come join a new ONLINE book club!!

We're brand new - just got set up last night, and we are looking for new members!

Come check us out!!

Butterfly's Dawn: A Book Club Community

We're taking book suggestions right now in our List thread.

Also, even if you don't have time to read, please consider joining anyways. You're more then welcome to be a "lurker" and just read our discussions, or relax a bit with our on-site chat box. Everyone needs a place for some "adult" conversation - believe me, my brain's been screaming for some!

If you decide to join, let me know in the comments and I'll look for you when I'm on too. Know anyone else who'd be interested? Please pass on the link! Thanks so much! I hope to see some of you there.

Rant of the week!

2009-01-13T01:58:00.003-05:00

**This is personal, not nanny related, just FYI**

So today started off good. I had a doctor's appointment at my Alternative Health Doctor, and everything checked out great. We're sticking with once a month rechecks, unless something gets out of balance, and I have a good supply of supplements that shouldn't change. So then, since I didn't have to work today, I had time to go to the bank. Well, I decided to go to a branch of my bank that's close to my doctor's, but I've never been there before. So the parking lot is really weird, and as I'm navigating it to pull into the drive up ATM, this curb comes out of no where!! (OK so I know the curb doesn't move, but seriously, I did not see it!!) I hit it pretty bad, and felt like a complete novice driver, but then, guess what . . . it busted up my tire!! Yep, tore it and it was completely flat.

PTL I had just gotten new tires within the last year, so I had a new, full-size tire in the trunk. So I pull into a parking spot, and get out, pissed off, frustrated, and so not wanting to change a tire in the middle of the bank parking lot! LOL But I pull out all the stuff and get started. Now I'm very proud of the fact that I can change a tire, and not have to call AAA (and wait 2+ hours) or try and find some random guy to change it for me. But can I tell you that in the 20 or so mins that it took me to change the tire NO ONE STOPPED TO ASK ME IF I NEEDED HELP!! And to make it worse, two, yes I repeat TWO men walked right by me in the parking lot and said nothing.

*pauses for appropriate gasps*

I know, right?! I mean I freaking live in the south - supposedly the land of gentlemen who help damsels in distress!! Ok, so I wasn't exactly a damsel in distress, but I was covered in black junk from the tires/bolts/jack and that was not making me happy at all! I mean come on people!! Help a girl out why don't ya?!

So, for any parents reading this blog, I have two requests:

Please teach your boys to grow into helpful, courteous men that will at least offer to help a girl change her tire, even if it looks like she's got everything under control. She may decline the help, but she'll still appreciate the offer.
Please make sure your daughters know how to change a tire before you let them get their driver's license. I learned, because the summer before my senior year of high school, I was at Summer Honors (Lee University - holla'!!), and on a trip into Chattanooga, one of the cars got a flat. Out of about nine girls, only one knew how to change the tire, and no one stopped to help us. So, I watched and I learned how to change a tire, and I'm so glad I did.

So, that's my rant for now. I just had to get it out there. I mean I know that it's very rare to find a gentleman these days, and I'm still impressed when the door is held open for me by a random guy, but in an (for lack of a better word) extreme situation, I would hope they would rise to the occasion.

WWWAT: Goals, Change, etc.

2009-01-07T23:25:00.007-05:00

Yay it's time for the first WWWAT for 2009! And I totally remembered! So our theme this time is change, goals, new beginnings, etc. You know, all the things having to do with the new year and resolutions. So, I thought the first picture should be a self-portrait of me now, because I hope to change myself this year. Not just physically, but also behaviors, etc. I feel very work focused right now, and I hope to change that to become more people focused. My New Year's resolution is so be able to make that time for friends and family, that seems to be taken over by work (because I can't say no). So here I am, flaws and all.

My next resolution is typical, yet not. Yes I want to lose weight, get healthy, etc., but I also don't want to be ruled by this thing we call "the scale" (said in a deep voice with a hint of doom to the tone). I don't want my mood, emotions, or the way I feel about myself on any given day to be dictated by a few numbers on a scale.

Then comes the big one. To be more financially responsible. At this point I don't really have a choice, I'm being thrown into it head first. My mother is going on a four month mission trip, and I'm left to take care of myself and the house by myself. Of course I've lived on my own, so this is nothing horrifically new, but this feels different.

And last, but not least, my goal this year is to put myself out there. To be open to love, and see what God's plan for my relationship status is. I believe God has put desires in my heart that cannot be fulfilled by sitting on the couch. So I'm stepping out in faith.

I also want to start blogging more consistently. Not only about the hard things, but the really great things. I figure you're looking at my blog now, so I don't need a picture for that. Please come back and visit, and see if I accomplish this goal. I don't promise it'll be interesting, but I'm going to try.

Now head on over to Rachel's blog to check out the rest of the WWWAT participants.

Giggle fit

2009-01-04T00:59:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas y'all!!

2008-12-25T23:26:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-11T20:42:00.003-05:00

So for those of you that know me, you know that I am currently obsessed with any and all things Twilight!! So let me present me and my Cullen boys:

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Go Elf Yourself!!

It's that time of year!!

2008-11-30T21:09:00.001-05:00

Go check out the rest of these hilarious videos!! They will definitely make the start of your season bright!

California

2008-10-18T23:52:00.003-04:00

Ok, ok so I only did one entry about my California trip!! I'm so sorry, but we were really busy and then when I got home it was back to life (a.k.a work)! However, I wanted you to know that I made a few videos on my trip, so you can see all the trips we made. To see these videos just go to my Youtube channel. Please check them out and rate/comment if you feel so moved! LOL I had lots of fun making the videos (and I discovered my computer has a nifty little movie making program, so I was able to add effects and transitions!! Yay me!! LOL), so enjoy!!

Also, I took tons of pictures, which you can still find on my Myspace page. Just click on my picture and then go to the California photo album!! I meant to post a bunch of them for WWWAT, but I got back late Tuesday night and Wednesday was insane, so alas, I did not get to post. :( Oh well, maybe next time. :D

Napa Valley, California

2008-10-11T00:57:00.013-04:00

So, today (Friday) we headed out and went to wine country - Napa Valley, California!! The land here is much different then I remember/thought it would be. It's insanely flat around Modesto, being the valley, but as we drove towards Napa we encountered the hills, and saw the mountains in the distance.
Our first stop was Sweetie Pies, a cute little bakery/cafe in downtown Napa. They have an amazing selection of individual pies, cakes, tarts, and other homemade goodies that all look so amazingly good! Then we walked around downtown a bit. I took this picture of a cute church in downtown:

We'd planned to go see a geyser not too far from Napa, so we decided it was time to head that way. The geyser is called the Old Faithful Geyser of California. As the geyser erupts it makes beautiful rainbows!

Here we are in front! The sun was shining and, try as we might, we just could not escape the shadow on the face shots! LOL

They also run a "petting zoo" at the geyser sight, so we saw . . .

Fainting Goats, that sadly did not faint for us:

Four Horned Sheep:

And Llamas!!

Afterwards we decided to head back to Modesto, and that's when we saw the smoke. Yes, a wildfire had broken out in the 45 mins we were at the geyser. It was kind of sad, because it was near houses (beautiful houses), but being the tourist I took a few shots (yes morbid, I know). So here's the plume:

So as we left the sun was setting over the vineyards . . .

and the windmills . . .

And that was our day in Napa! Tomorrow we're off to Lake Tahoe. It's going to be cold, with possible snow in the morning! Needless to say I didn't exactly pack for this kind of weather, so layers are my friends! But they're having an Oktoberfest celebration in Tahoe City, so we'll be checking that out. I can't wait, and will take tons of pictures, so come back later to check them out!!

P.S. For more pictures of Napa, check out my MySpace page and the California picture album!

Greetings from . . .

2008-10-09T15:40:00.003-04:00

CALIFORNIA!

Yes I am officially on vacation in the lovely state of California, visiting a friend for 6 days. I hope to have lots of things to tell you and lots of pictures to post. Nothing today, as I just arrive very late last night. However, I wanted to share my excitement with those that come upon my blog. :D So enjoy your week, and I'll keep you posted!!

WWWAT: Beginnings & Endings

2008-09-17T21:07:00.004-04:00

I'm very proud of myself this episode of WWWAT. I actually knew, almost immediately what I would post. Fortunately my niece had her first birthday not too long ago, so I thought she'd make the perfect subject! Check out Crystal's Blog for more great stories about this cutie, and some great makeup tips & reviews too!!

Ok so, I can't take credit for this one, but you can't talk about beginnings without having a picture of her immediately after birth.

Here's the cake at the beginning of the celebration. Looks good, right?

Yeah, she thought so too!

Yum, yum! The end of that cake, and the beginning of her first sugar rush.

New clothes before opening the wonderful presents.

So this is the end of my post of her beginnings! For more great entries rush over to Rachel's Blog and check out Mr. Linky!

Another day older, another second wiser. . .

2008-08-18T15:18:00.002-04:00

MySpace Graphics at GlitterBell.com
Birthday Comments

Yep, that's right today is THE day. I am officially 26, and starting that gumption thing I mentioned earlier. LOL It's not as easy as it sounds, but I'm determined to try and take it day by day. So, wish me luck, blow out a candle for me, and have a wonderful day, on me!!

I know I'm late. . .WWWAT!!

2008-08-14T01:13:00.005-04:00

So, my "different view" is not different for me, but rather different for you. Yes you, all you bloglanders, who can't see what I see. Now you can!!

Reading

Blogging

Texting

(yes, I was typing nonsense)

The inner sanctum

a.k.a inside my purse

For more different views, head over to Rachel's Blog and check out the other, on time, entries. ;)

Another year, another plan.

2008-08-12T13:08:00.004-04:00

Well, in exactly 6 days is my birthday. 26 - it's just a number, right? Honestly, I've never been overly obsessed/depressed with getting older, but this year it seems extra hard. I just want to stay 25, is that okay? It's not so much the number, I guess, but rather the personal expectations that I had placed on my life and these numbers. You know, the mental conversations you have at ages 18-20, "Oh by the time I'm 25 I'll have a fabulous job, I'll be traveling, I'll have a boyfriend/fiance/husband, blah blah blah blah. . ." Then reality hits at ages 23-25 and it sucks!! LOL

Now the mental conversation is, "OMG I'LL BE 30 IN FOUR YEARS!!!!" Which is not old, nor the end of the world (and we all know that 30 is the new 20), but you know that time flies, and if you want to achieve the goals in life that you wanted to achieve at 25 (which have now been pushed to 30) you'd better get rolling!! It's at this point in time that it's good to be reminded that God is in control of every little detail. It's His timing our life's clock is set to, not our own.

Slight topic change! LOL

I've been thinking a lot about gumption. If you've seen the movie, "The Holiday," you know that gumption is the main theme of this movie. I LOVE that movie. I saw it again recently and that whole idea of gumption really resonated with me. My favorite scene is when Iris is having dinner with Arthur and part of their conversation goes like this:

Arthur: "Iris, in the movies we have leading ladies and we have the best friend. You, I can tell, are a leading lady, but for some reason you are behaving like the best friend."

Iris: "You're so right. You're supposed to be the leading lady of your own life, for god's sake! Arthur, I've been going to a therapist for three years, and she's never explained things to me that well. That was brilliant. Brutal, but brilliant."

Then the other day I finished reading Gone With The Wind (longest read of my life, btw!) and as I read the "About the Author" section, they had a quote from and interview Margaret Mitchell had with her publisher. When the publisher asked her what the novel was about, she replied, "if the novel has a theme it is that of survival. What makes some people come through catastrophes and others, apparently just as able, strong and brave, go under? It happens in every upheaval. Some people survive; others don't. What qualities are in those who fight their way through triumphantly that are lacking in those that go under? I only know that survivors used to call that quality 'gumption.' So I wrote about people who had gumption and people who didn't."

So my goal for this 26th year of mine is to be the leading lady of my own life and to have more gumption. I think I've lacked some of that in my life, and it's time for some change. It's now or never, right? I don't really know what this will look like completely, but part of it is that I'm not going to be afraid to go for what I want. For the present that means applying for jobs that maybe I don't feel like I am capable of getting, but would love to get. If the job is meant to be, God will open the door. If it's not meant to be, then He'll close it, and I'll try the next one.

What's your blog rated?

2008-08-05T14:21:00.004-04:00

Created by OnePlusYou - Free Dating Sites

Nothing too bad here! My life is pretty boring. . . LOL

Just something pretty.

2008-07-18T15:31:00.004-04:00

So for those of you who don't know me as well as others, I am OBSESSED with So You Think You Can Dance during the summer. I think there is a hidden dancer inside of me that never had the opportunity to be released (long story. let's just say I had a sheltered childhood) and now I have to live vicariously through the dancers on SYTYCD. Last season was really amazing, and I am a HUGE fan now of the choreographer Mia Micheals. I think lyrical dance is my absolute favorite, and I just wish I could move like they do. So here's my favorite dance from last season featuring a song by Elisa called "Dancing."

The girl in the previous video, Lacey Schwimmer, was one of my favorite dancers. Well now Elisa is releasing a new U.S. album, and in honor of that her website has created a new video featuring Lacey. It's so pretty too, that I had to share, so enjoy!!

Hope your summer is full of beauty and art!!

WWWAT - Summertime

2008-07-16T23:49:00.006-04:00

Summer is my favorite season and my favorite time of year. As a southerner summer always seems to bring lazier days, and life as I wish it could always be. My favorite part about southern summers are summer storms. Sadly I have no pictures of these glorious storms, but I do have a few other favorite things about summer, so they'll have to do.

Bright Colors!!

Fabulous sandals!!

Barefeet AND dips in the pool!!

Enjoy your summer and hop on over to Rachel's blog to check out the other entries!

R. Kelly found Not Guilty.

2008-06-13T17:04:00.004-04:00

Not having actually been in the courthouse, is it awful that I am shocked and disappointed in this verdict? I think he's guilty. There I said it. Maybe I bought into the hype, or maybe he really was framed. I guess the only thing we'll really know was that there was enough doubt for the jury to find him not guilty.
Care to discuss/share your opinion? Please do, I'm all ears.

Warning

2008-05-30T14:33:00.003-04:00

*The following is me, venting. I admit there are other things *cough*hormones*cough* going on with me right now, but this is how they manifested, so I'm venting.*

You know, I try to let little comments roll off my back, mainly because they're coming from a toddler and so I recognize that he is venting his frustrations the only way he knows how, but turning four made things worse. I hoped things would get better, but turning four has gone to his head. He thinks he's all grown up now, Mr. Independent, and therefore takes tones when he speaks, does things without telling anyone, and yeah basically acts like he's twenty-four. The way he talks now is what is very irritating. He's so rude! Not foul mouthed, yet, but just the tone of his voice and the way he says things, it's like having a sulky teenager in the house.
I didn't let the running away when he saw me pull up to the house, effect me, because I knew he was just upset that the parents were leaving, but you know when he looks right at you and says, "I don't like you" it kind of hurts, especially when it happens not 5 minutes after walking into the house, and you haven't even spoken to him. Honestly it makes me want to quit right now. Who cares if I have another job lined up, screw it all!! (OK I'm too "responsible" for that, but seriously, would you stay at a job where you're put down?)
I know, I know, tomorrow is another day and sure enough he'll do something completely sweet and win me over again, but I just needed to vent, and not keep it inside. So I hope all you out there are having a wonderful day, and just know, even if I don't know you, I like you. :)

Too sad for words.

2008-05-22T12:29:00.004-04:00

For those of you familiar with the world of Christian music, the name Stephen Curtis Chapman will be known to you. Sadly, his youngest daughter was hit and killed by a car yesterday. As if that couldn't get any worse, the car that hit her was being driven by her teenage brother. Those of you that believe in prayer, please pray for this family. She was only 5 years old, and one of the three little girls the Chapman family has adopted from China.
My hearts and prayers go out to them.

Mother's Day

2008-05-13T01:40:00.004-04:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day! Mine was excellent. Everything I had planned for my mom went smoothly, and I was completely exhausted afterwards! LOL The entire weekend was rather busy for me. The two older kids had multiple sporting events, and Sunday was not only Mother's Day it was also the little one's 4th birthday!
Monday was the 14th birthday of the oldest, and we all celebrated with a dinner out. Do you know how difficult it is to shop for a 14 year old? It's that age where everything they use to like they hate, and everything they want to like is not quite age appropriate for them yet. Thankfully in times like this, girls always love jewelry!
Well I hope y'all enjoy the rest of this month, as school ends and summer officially approaches!

Tag!

2008-05-08T16:14:00.005-04:00

Rachel tagged me, so here it goes. :)

What I was doing ten years ago: I was 15, back from the mission field for 7 months, hating high school and wishing I was back in Kazakhstan. Not a great year for me. Had my first "emotional breakdown."

Five things on my to-do list today: Work, e-mail Crystal, get M to bed on time with minimal fuss, get organized for Mother's Day, watch Grey's Anatomy.

Things I would do if I were a billionaire: Pay off bills, buy new cars, buy own place, and travel.

Three of my bad habits: Reading late at night, "grazing" (a.k.a mindless eating), running late.

Five places I've lived: Abbeville, AL; Karaganda, Kazakhstan; Columbus, GA; Cleveland, TN; Athens, GA.

Five jobs I've had: PK/MK (oh yeah, it's a job), TA at a day care, babysitter, cashier at Garden Ridge, and nanny.

Five people I want to know more about: Anyone who wants to post this on their blog.