tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24817288986075856122024-03-14T01:05:37.867-04:00Polka Dot PancakesMy art, photography, digital scrapping, recipes, and life in general!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-12345550068647619822013-03-14T12:07:00.000-04:002013-03-14T12:07:20.120-04:00March Daybook: Savannah Edition For Today ( make sure you join the fun! Participate over at <a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Simple Woman's Daybook Blog</a>!)<br />
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<i><b>March 14, 2013</b></i></div>
<b>Outside my window...</b> a beautiful, even though it's a little chilly, Savannah morning!
I am thinking...about what project I need to begin. I feel a painting coming on, but I'm not sure where to start.<br />
<b>I am thankful...</b>for friends. It's so true that friends are the family you choose. I am so blessed to have a friend who was willing to pick me up, then drive me to South Carolina when I didn't have another way to make it to see my grandmother on her 86th birthday. Thank you, Deanna!<br />
<b>In the kitchen...</b>I made grits this morning! It's the first time Mary and Deanna have had what I call REAL Southern grits. They enjoyed them, so breakfast was a success! <br />
<b>I am wearing...</b>jammies! Lay-around-and-be-lazy days are awesome.<br />
<b>I am creating...</b>well, just writing right now. My brain is stewing something up, though.<br />
<b>I am going...</b>nowhere unless I feel like it!<br />
<b>I am wondering... </b>Oh, I am always wondering - well, worrying - about what's happening next. I try and try to live in the moment, but my pre-planning gene is too active sometimes!<br />
<b>I am reading...</b> <i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8868692-spirited" target="_blank">Spirited: Unlock Your Psychic Self and Change Your Life</a></i> by Rebecca Rosen, Samantha Rose<br />
<b>I am hoping...</b> to keep up with my "training". I found three or four FIRM workouts that I love, so I hope I can keep gaining strength (and eventually see pounds come off. They weren't kidding; after 30 it's so much harder!)<br />
<b>I am looking forward to...</b> seeing what else we get into while I'm here in Savannah!<br />
<b>I am learning... </b>to take every single thing moment by moment. Still. You'd think that lesson was easier to grasp.<br />
<b>Around the house...</b>sleeping puppies. It's so cute when they dream and snore!<br />
<b>I am pondering...</b>nothing deep. Just thinking about another cup of coffee.<br />
<b>A favorite quote for today... </b><i>"Isn't it funny how, day by day nothing changes, but when you look back, everything is different."</i> ~C.S. Lewis<br />
<b>One of my favorite things...</b>spending time with friends!<br />
<b>A few plans for the rest of the week: </b>The plan this week is to make no plans! It's a do-whatever kind of thing!<br />
<b>A peek into my day...</b>well, this was from yesterday, but it still made my day. My best friends Deanna and Mary took me up to Aiken, SC for the day so I wouldn't miss visiting my grandmother for her 86th birthday! Not only did it make my day, but it was the best present they could have given her (her words!). I love this shot of her blowing out her candles. Nothing better than a day full of family and friends!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xKUQoD9MUJQ/UUHz3OVldKI/AAAAAAAABPg/tnT3GOCm_Cw/s1600/IMG_1751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xKUQoD9MUJQ/UUHz3OVldKI/AAAAAAAABPg/tnT3GOCm_Cw/s1600/IMG_1751.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I will always cherish this shot! She was so happy when I made it to visit for her birthday, and then we were surprised again with a big family crowd for her birthday lunch! She said "I've had a wonderful day ever since my feet it the floor!"</td></tr>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com4Savannah, GA, USA32.0835407 -81.09983419999997531.6528327 -81.74528119999998 32.5142487 -80.454387199999971tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-24645970967892417192013-01-02T18:22:00.000-05:002013-01-02T18:22:59.069-05:00Welcoming the New Year!<b>Welcome, 2013!</b><br />
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The New Year is always a crazy time of change for me for some reason. Some of it might be the sudden halt we skid to after the build up of the holidays ever since October. I suspect the rest of it is the huge anticipation of the year to come, not to mention looking back on what I may not have accomplished.<br />
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We always put so much pressure on ourselves to stick to resolutions! I haven't officially made any, but you know I have things in mind I want to change, make better, learn...insert any word you want there, really. SO, instead of stressing (like I am usually prone to do) I decided to start my blogging year off with <a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Simple Woman's Daybook</a>; it always makes me slow down and appreciate the little things. (If you want to participate, make sure you click the link!)<br />
<br /><b>FOR TODAY - January 2, 2012</b><br /><br /><b>Outside my window... </b>it's already getting dark! I can't believe how late it feels, but I'm glad it isn't cold. I am so thankful I moved to Florida!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am thinking... </span>I am really hard on myself, even though I am better than I used to be. Why is it so hard to be nice to yourself?<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am thankful...</span>for my loving husband, Rob. It doesn't matter what is going on in my day, he always knows just what to do to make me feel better. That means the world to me.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">In the kitchen...</span>thawing out some chicken for dinner. I don't know how I'm going to top Rob's BBQ grilled pork chops from yesterday though!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am wearing...</span>my jammies, still. Ah, the luxuries of being a house wife, huh? Yeah, I don't do it every day, so don't judge!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am creating...</span> undue anxiety for myself. I always feel pushed to get paintings started so they will be closer to a finish point. I always rush myself to learn new things faster than humanly possible. This year, I will really work on allowing myself to be human.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am going... </span>to keep on trying, even if I don't get it right the first time. Or the fifth. Everyone was a beginner at some point.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am wondering...</span> which project to start first!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am reading...</span> <i>Discover Your Psychic Type</i> by Sherrie Dillard and <i>Spirited</i> by Rebecca Rosen<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am hoping...</span> to find being more assertive easier than I anticipate.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am looking forward to...</span> learning more about my new camera. I've only had it since Christmas, so I'm being too hard on myself about not knowing everything I think I should.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am learning...</span> to give myself time and space. I'm also learning to slow down and teach myself that I don't have to finish a project in one day, or do something "right the first time." It's hard to remember that life is about learning, so mistakes happen.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Around the house...</span>ugh. I have post holiday clean up waiting on me. Why does laundry multiply exponentially during the holidays?<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am pondering...</span>which photography course to take first. I'm pretty excited about starting this new journey! If you have a suggestion, please share!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">A favorite quote for today...</span> <i>Those who wish to sing always find a song.</i> ~Swedish Proverb<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">One of my favorite things...</span> a warm cup of French Vanilla coffee on the couch with my cats snuggled around me. Nothing much better than that!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">A few plans for the rest of the week:</span> in an effort to live in the moment, I'm not going to make any hard plans!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">A peek into my day... </span>I'm<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>learning how to do some interesting things with my new camera. I love the Bokeh effect, so I tried and tried, and I think I finally got the basics down! Now if I could just get my beach pictures in focus...<br />
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-55651675230329822272012-11-21T20:01:00.002-05:002012-11-21T20:01:55.873-05:00What the Heck is a Hoecake, Anyway?Ah, the humble, oh-so-yummy <b>hoecake</b>. It's just a part of my Southern heritage, so the word rolls off my tongue easily, but it's drawn some pretty funny looks quite a few times for me as well. So, since it <i>is</i> Thanksgiving Eve, I thought there was no better time to explain one of my favorite holiday traditions.<br />
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<b>A Little Hoecake History...</b><br />
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It's isn't so much of a cake as a bread really. This most humble of breads goes by many names: Johnny cake, Shawnee cake, ash cakes and even <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corn_pone#Corn_pone" target="_blank">corn pone</a>...but it will forever be a <b>hoecake</b> to me. Hoecakes have a long heritage in the South. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johnnycake#Hoecake" target="_blank">According to one source</a>, they were called johnny cakes in South Carolina as early as 1739, but the word <i>hoecake</i> first showed up around 1745. I've read loads of different stories and tales about the origins of the hoecake, but nothing seems to pin down exactly where they came from. Suffice it to say, Native Americans had a long tradition of using corn and slaves carried on that tradition and are usually credited with making these Southern treasures.<br />
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<b>So, what the heck is a hoecake, anyway?</b><br />
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It's different the world over now, but the traditional Southern hoecake is basically a cornbread pancake. These yummy little boogers get their name from the method used to cook them. Shovels and other farming tools were regularly used for cooking throughout the South in the 1700's, and one such utensil was the garden hoe. The large, flat spade on the hoe made it perfect for using as a griddle. Now that's ingenuity, people! Don't tell <i>me</i> necessity isn't the mother of invention! Slaves would make a batch of corn mash (at it's simplest, ground corn meal mixed with hot water or milk, then fried in some sort of fat. I mean, it is a Southern thing, remember?) and then cook them on the blade of a hoe over an open fire. If you were super lucky, they might have even been served with a side of honey or maple syrup. Yum!<br />
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Nowadays, the recipe is a tad more involved (and the cooking surface is much improved) but the tradition is still one of my favorites. My sister loves herself a hoecake, and whoever makes the dressing always has to save one for her...if she isn't on hand to snatch one, that is! I remember listening to my grandmother talking about her recipe while I helped with preparations. We never had an educational discussion about <i>why</i> they were hoecakes. They were simply hoecakes and part of our Thanksgiving dressing recipe.<br />
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I think I was in 2nd grade before I learned why they had such a name. Mrs. Risher was awesome, and I spent a lot of time just talking to her at recess...yeah, I was that kid. It was Mrs. Risher that ended up explaining what a hoecake was during a class discussion/coloring worksheet session about blessings we were thankful for at Thanksgiving. (That was back around 1988. You know, when you could still talk about being thankful for <i>blessings</i> in school.) She had asked the class to raise our hands if we wanted to share a family tradition and I volunteered hoecake dressing. Yep, I was that kid too...always thankful for food.<br />
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Anyway, ever since then I was in love with anything about the past, so I cherished the fact my grandmother's recipe was centuries old...kind of. Who knew a little thing like a hoecake could hold so much history! So, now you know what a hoecake is and how it came to be. I guess you want the recipe to try your own, right? OK!<br />
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<b>The Recipe</b><br />
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Now, I have to warn you of something: this recipe is like a lot of my grandmother's recipes. She doesn't measure. Ever. I don't think I've ever seen a measuring cup in her kitchen. She is an on-the-fly, just-gonna-eye-it kind of gal so I'm sorry in advance for the vague directions. This is as close as I could get after making it right along with her and writing things down every 5 to 10 seconds.<br />
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You're welcome.<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1 cup self-rising corn meal (*corn meal + a sprinkle of baking powder)<br />
1 1/4 cup self rising flour (*I used the same amount of <a href="http://pamelasproducts.com/products/baking-mixes/pamelas-baking-pancake-mix/" target="_blank">Pamela's GF Baking and Pancake Mix</a>)<br />
1 egg<br />
8 TBsp butter, melted (1 stick)<br />
about 3 cups chicken broth (you may or may not use it all)<br />
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*Special note! Follow the starred suggestions for gluten free hoecakes, like me!<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
-Get yourself a skillet or griddle and heat it to medium or medium high.<br />
-I spray my pan with cooking spray, but you can go all Southern Traditional and use butter.<br />
-Whisk your corn meal and flour together, then add your egg and butter and mix until combined.<br />
- Begin to add your chicken broth, stirring until combined. Add as much as you need to make a batter the consistency of thick pancake batter. It shouldn't be too runny.<br />
-Use a medium spoon (I use a 1/4 measuring cup for larger ones, a tablespoon for smaller ones) and drop small to medium puddles of batter into your hot pan. Brown, then flip when you start to see bubbles. This is basically when you cook them just like regular pancakes.<br />
-ENJOY! These are great with just a pat of butter, or you could go old school and eat them drizzled with honey or maple syrup.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Thanksgiving from 2010! These pictures were better than 2011, haha!</td></tr>
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Thanks for listening to my ramblings, y'all. All this aside, make sure to take time tomorrow between the gravy and the cranberry sauce to be thankful for the fact you have both those things and more. I am so very thankful to be blessed with family and friends I adore, a roof over my head, a caring husband with a wonderful career, and food on our table...and much much more. I'm thankful you decided to share a moment here with me and I wish a Happy Thanksgiving to each and every one of you! God Bless!<br />
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-15198014598408178212012-08-02T14:52:00.000-04:002012-08-02T14:52:25.435-04:00August 2nd Daybook Thoughts<br />
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FOR TODAY - August 2, 2012</div>
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(want to participate? Visit the <a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simple Woman's Daybook</a>!)</div>
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Outside my window...it's partly sunny and I've been enjoying the butterfly that has decided to show love to my Parade roses. I always feel like my mom is visiting when I get to see a butterfly.<br />
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I am thinking... why must people hold so much hate? Just treat others how you would like to be treated, people! It might sound childish, but it's as simple as that.<br />
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I am thankful... for all the loving, supportive people I am blessed to have in my life. You know who you are, and thank you. If you think it isn't you? You're probably wrong. Thank you (yes you) for being in my life.<br />
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In the kitchen... yummy gluten free chocolate cake is calling my name.<br />
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I am wearing... my favorite over sized, long sleeve t-shirt and cotton gauchos. Bumming it today!<br />
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I am creating... fanciful things in my head! I have a few projects I need to get rolling. Namely, a birthday card and a new painting.<br />
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I am going... to have to give in and have a piece of cake.<br />
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I am wondering... why we can't all just get along.<br />
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I am reading... <i>The Hobbit</i> by J.R.R. Tolkien, pretty much because I'd like to say I have read it when the movie comes out in December. It was one of my favorite <a href="http://youtu.be/yLEEvPMA54E" target="_blank">cartoon movies</a> when I was little. Right up there with <i><a href="http://youtu.be/t-UpwWauZ50" target="_blank">The Last Unicorn</a></i>!<br />
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I am hoping... I can just be the best me I can be, and that touches even one person at some point in a positive way.<br />
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I am looking forward to... oddly enough, that piece of cake. Haha!<br />
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I am learning... continually, patience and tolerance.<br />
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Around the house... I actually finished up my chores BEFORE sitting down! Somehow, dishes multiply while you are out of the kitchen. I think dishes are secretly like rabbits.<br />
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I am pondering... what to paint next. So many things in my brain!<br />
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A favorite quote for today...<i> Just going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than just standing in a garage makes you a car</i>. This can go for any religion, and is right in line with <i>Religion doesn't make you a better person, you actions make you a better person</i>. Treat people the way you'd want them to treat you, people! You get what you give!<br />
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One of my favorite things... cat feet. My little Charlie Bug has the most precious jellybean-like toes. Squee!<br />
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A few plans for the rest of the week: I want to get a new painting started, I need to put my toes in the ocean, and I need to make time for meditation every day, no matter what!<br />
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A peek into my day... my sweet Charlie Bug didn't want to cooperate and share he toes today. But here's her favorite nap position!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlie Bug decided she didn't want to share he toes, but here's her belly!</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-46548876662794327252012-06-24T14:26:00.000-04:002012-06-24T14:26:51.397-04:00My First Sea Turtle Nest!I found my first sea turtle nest on our favorite beach! Ok, so I might not have <i>actually</i> discovered the crawl, or the nest for that matter, but I can still call it my first. I mean, I have never seen an actual sea turtle nest on the beach before...<br />
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It'd been a few weeks since I'd had my feet in the ocean, so we headed out to our favorite oceanfront park in Wilbur-by-the-Sea, just up the road from the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. Of course, Rob had to stop by the Little Boys' Room, so I made it to the beach first. It was a gloomy day, and we were there around 6 o'clock, so we pretty much had the beach to ourselves.<br />
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While I snapped some pictures and waited on Rob, I spotted a section of sand marked off with tape and cones. I'm sort of used to seeing cones on the beach, since you are allowed (in most places) in the Daytona area to park on the beach. The Winter Haven Park area is a no traffic beach, but there are still cones for the Beach Patrol areas. Anyway, these weren't Beach Patrol cones. I ran down to see it it was really what I hoped.<br />
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<i>Cha-ching!</i> A marked sea turtle nest!! I couldn't contain myself, I ran halfway up the boardwalk to Rob and started jumping up and down and hyperventilating. I couldn't regain composure, so I just drug him down to the beach. This nest wasn't exactly in the dunes (mere steps from the public beach walkover actually) so they had extra cones for added warning. See the little<br />
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Sea Turtle spray painted on the cone? I wish I knew the details, like if it was relocated or what type of turtle made the nest, but I'm just happy knowing there will be baby sea turtles on my beach soon!<br />
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We strolled the beach until rain drops began to chase us back to the walkover. I didn't think that trip to the beach could get much better...then on our way back, we spotted another nest! TWO sea turtle nests on our beach!<br />
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We noticed numbers on the markers and decided some of them were dates. One nest was found June 12th, the other June 20th. I hope we are lucky enough to see the babies when they hatch! <a href="http://www.seaworld.org/infobooks/SeaTurtle/sthatch.html" target="_blank">Sea turtle nests can incubate for anywhere from 65 to 80 days</a>, depending on the species, so I have some calculating to do! How exciting would it be to watch the babies make it to the ocean!!! I think I'd cry the whole time...I'm just like that.<br />
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According the the <a href="http://turtlepatrol.com/" target="_blank">Volusia County Turtle Patrol</a>, our county has 173 Loggerhead and 5 Leatherback nests so far! Woohoo! This ought to be an exciting season! I'm so glad we decided to hit the beach yesterday; I'm sure I'll annoy Rob every free day he has to return, especially since it's sea turtle season. At least it's the beach and not the mall, right babe? <i>Right?</i><br />
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-32724473658477349112012-02-26T17:41:00.000-05:002012-02-26T20:44:58.045-05:00Act of ValorFebruary 25th was my husband's birthday. It was his day and I wanted us to celebrate exactly how he wanted. Well, he's sort of the home-body type, so we slept in and messed around the house for a while. We talked about mini golf, or maybe heading into Orlando for some touristy fun, but then he decided he wanted to see the new movie, <a href="http://actofvalor.com/">Act of Valor</a>.<br />
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Our favorite local theater had it, so we headed out to Port Orange and got two tickets for the 4 o'clock showing. If you haven't heard of this movie, the idea is pretty awesome. It took forever to film because they used actual Navy Seals, and filming had to be worked around their deployment. Wow, right? That's exactly what I thought. Now, I know a lot of people (especially most girls out there) will probably not go see this movie because you aren't action movie fans. I wasn't looking too forward to it myself, but I was sorely mistaken to think it wasn't something I'd like. Granted, it's definitely not a chick flick, but <a href="http://actofvalor.com/official/">Act of Valor</a> should be on everyone's must see list.<br />
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My immediate family isn't a military family. Growing up in an all female household, I didn't really have any experience with the military past knowing they protected our country, and that Fort Gordon was more than a highway in August, GA. It was also an army base. Sure, my high school had an NJ-ROTC program, and I even waited on soldiers at my family restaurant, but as for an intimate knowledge of anything military, forget it. I knew my maternal grandfather had served in the Navy in World War II, and I had friends that went into all branches of the service. I wholeheartedly respect anyone brave enough to commit to serve our great country. But like most Americans, I had no idea what that service entails.<br />
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Act of Valor has an intriguing plot, just like you'd expect any good action move to have. The difference? This one is based on actual missions. Actual people. Actual men and women putting themselves in harms way to protect my freedom, and yours. It's raw, real, and very graphic. You will follow a team of Navy Seals as they work to stop terrorists from harming Americans, on American soil. February 25th started out as a regular evening, but the simple act of catching a movie changed my life.<br />
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I won't reveal anything about the film; you have to watch if for yourself. But if you can watch that movie without being touched to your core, without gaining a whole new level of appreciation for your rights and freedoms, then my friend, you aren't human...much less American.<br />
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Everyone in that theater was speechless. Popcorn and candy was left uneaten, drinks remained untouched in their cup holders, and when the credits rolled? Well, they were few, and they ended with a list of soldiers that have given the ultimate sacrifice since 9/11 protecting the freedoms we as Americans take for granted every moment we breathe. People left the theater in silence. I didn't see a single person that hadn't wiped a tear away, or somehow looked deeply affected. It was the most reverent, orderly, respectful thing I've ever seen.</div>
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Of course, being my usual self, I had to sit there for a few minutes and get my sobbing under control. The swelling of pride I had (and still have) for our country's military is beyond words. The respect I had for our armed forces before that movie seemed small and insignificant as those credits rolled. I was at once overwhelmingly grateful for their sacrifices and just taken aback at the fact someone I don't know could ever put themselves in that much danger, just to protect me.<br />
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My mind couldn't stop spilling over the things people just don't get. Acts of valor like that go on so much more often than we civilians will ever know, and that is why we still have our freedoms. <b><i>That</i></b> is why I can say and do what I want. <b><i>That</i></b> is why I enjoy every single thing I enjoy, right down to the freedom to write this post unedited and uncensored. That movie shook me to my core.<br />
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I've always respected our soldiers...past, present, and future. But that respect has deepened to unbelievable levels since yesterday. I don't think there will be a day, probably not even a moment of my day that will pass that I don't think how blessed I am to live in the United States of America. To all our armed forces out there, and their families, thank you from the very depths of my being, and then some. <b><i>You are all heroes.</i></b><br />
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-89948212888850898912012-01-19T15:00:00.000-05:002012-01-19T15:00:04.141-05:00Healthy Habits & Family: One Girl's Take on Dieting Sabotage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been a while since I've posted! I might be 19 days late (I <b>did</b> make a resolution and all), but here I am! Really, I would have to thank <a href="http://blogilates.com/about-me">Cassey Ho</a>, over at <a href="http://blogilates.com/">Blogilates.com</a> for spurring my post today. While surfing Facebook, I saw a link to her post <i><a href="http://blogilates.com/diet-2/how-to-start-healthy-habits-when-your-family-is-not-supportive#comment-13838">How to Start Healthy Habits When Your Family is Not Supportive</a></i>. Ever the weight-loss warrior, of course I clicked the link. <b>Boy</b> could I relate!<br />
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Now, don't get me wrong, I have some super supportive family members. Of course, it helps a lot when your twin sister is also on the Healthy Habit Bandwagon. It helps even more when your husband is, too. The problems arise when you have to return home. My grandmother, bless her heart, is one of the sweetest people I know. But, she doesn't know what being supportive means when it comes to life choices...especially if they involve food.<br />
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For those of you that don't know it, my roots are Southern Baptist. We grew up showing people, and one another, how we felt with food. Somebody in the church have a baby? Send them some fried chicken. Someone’s grandfather pass away? Hurry up, make up a casserole! And God forbid having to attend the dreaded Covered Dish dinner. <i>(Don't even get me started!) </i>I swear, every time I hear that someone is out of work with the flu, or might have any other ailment or celebration of any kind going on, I have this knee-jerk reaction to cook or bake something, <b>anything</b>, to take to them. It's so bad, it's even a running joke between me and my husband.<br />
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It's difficult enough to make any changes to your routine, but when my husband and I return home <b>and</b> have to eat, it isn't any easier. We both have to really struggle to lose, then keep off the weight. (We <a href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/187001/endomorph">Endomorphs</a> got the short end of the stick on that one.) Returning for a visit home is a mine field of lifestyle pitfalls and arguments waiting to happen. And it starts when you walk in the door. There's always a cake or some sort of dessert waiting. (Of course, we love it, who wouldn't?) We try the good ol' <i>"Oh, we just ate before getting here, maybe later!"</i> stand by first. That might help until actual meal time...then it's no holds barred.<br />
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And it starts with breakfast. I don't know if she just wants to make him happy, or if she thinks he's heading out to hand-plow rows all day in a field somewhere, but she starts the morning plying my husband with <b>unholy</b> amounts of slab bacon or fatty sausage for breakfast. Not to mention eggs, and toast, and grits and, and,and...<br />
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She’s even gone so far as to wake up super early and cook it all before we get up so she can then say, “Don’t let this go to waste now,” when we won’t eat her outrageous portions. If, by chance, it isn't already cooked, she stands close by hovering and saying "You're going to eat more than <i>that,</i> aren't you?" or "Remember, you can have as much as you want!" Even worse? I've had more food magically appear on my plate as I sit there!<br />
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It doesn't stop at portions either. I don't think she even hears things like "I can't have gluten," or "Nanny, I can't eat corn anymore, for reasons I can't discuss at the table." Really, telling her <b>No Wheat No Corn</b> translated immediately to <b>I Choose to No Longer Eat Fiber</b> in her brain. I spent the rest of the day explaining the amount of varied vegetables I love and deflecting taking home large bottles of those nasty chewable fiber tablets she swore I needed. I thought I was home free until I caught her stuffing the bottle in my over night bag.<br />
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<a href="http://blogilates.com/diet-2/how-to-start-healthy-habits-when-your-family-is-not-supportive#comment-13838">Like Cassey mentions in her article</a>, sometimes saying no equals getting served bigger portions. Telling my grandmother no over food isn't easy. She takes it very personally, and of course that gets to me. I'd never want to purposely hurt her feelings, but sometimes, you just can't help it. Suddenly, a simple No Thank-you turns into a question and answer session, and usually I end up wondering out loud why in the world it's so damn hard to respect my personal decisions. I think anyone with a Diet Saboteur in their midst has put up with any or all of the following...<br />
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Yeah...not fun, is it? I admit, it was comforting to know someone else has a family like that. I'm glad Cassey decided to share her story, because it's actually a really important topic. Most people I know are concerned, in some way, about their health or weight and, in my opinion, there are three types of players in the game: the Habit Changers, the Supporters, and the Saboteurs. And that extends to any situation, not just dietary changes. I have learned again and again how important it is to surround yourself with supportive, encouraging people, especially when it comes to things like this. Negativity just doesn't help anyone. Reading <a href="http://blogilates.com/diet-2/how-to-start-healthy-habits-when-your-family-is-not-supportive#comment-13838">Cassey's story</a> made me even more grateful for the Supporters in my life. How about you?</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-32596964284082950392011-10-26T16:22:00.000-04:002011-10-26T16:22:21.341-04:00Sunshine On my Shoulders...Soon!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can't believe October is almost a memory! So much has happened in the last few months, it's hard to believe I am the same person. The biggest news also happens to be the biggest life change I've ever had...yes, even bigger than picking up and moving to Pennsylvania! OK, hold on tight, there's a lot to tell!<br />
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My husband official finished school at the end of September with his Associates of Specialized Technology degree in Bio-medical Equipment Repair! He thoroughly enjoyed his internship with <a href="http://www.davita.com/?source=google_davita&9gtype=search&9gkw=davita&9gad=9426293840.1&9gpla=&9gag=675319208&gclid=CLve7YqLh6wCFQ175QodOUj__Q">DaVita</a> and really wanted to go after a position with that company, so he put out his resume at the beginning of October and we crossed our fingers.<br />
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October 11th came out of nowhere and we were celebrating our third wedding anniversary before we knew it! Animal lovers that we are, we headed to the <a href="https://www.eriezoo.org/default.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1">Erie Zoo</a> for the day, but before we left the house, Rob's phone rang. It was DaVita! He chatted a moment or three and when he got off the phone, he had the biggest smile on his face! They had scheduled an interview for the following day for a position with their company. Of course, besides spending the day together, there wasn't a better way we could have though of to celebrate our anniversary!<br />
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Fast forward to today and we are packing our lives into boxes to move once again. Why? Well, Rob has been hired for a position with DaVita and we are ecstatic! I can't pack fast enough either. I have enjoyed Pennsylvania while I have been here, but I have missed my beloved South something awful. The thing I have missed the most (besides my family and friends, of course) is the ocean. We moved here in February of 2010 and I have seen the ocean exactly <b>once</b> during that time...and for only about thirty minutes. That? is unacceptable. <i>Unacceptable I say!</i><br />
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But all that is about to change, because the position Rob was hired for is in beautiful, sunny <b>Florida</b>! We will be moving close enough to Orlando to smell the non-stop fun, and I am super excited. Not only will we be close enough to enjoy the touristy theme parks for a weekend if we choose...THERE'S AN <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/">IKEA</a>!!! (Yeah, I'm a shameless Ikea lover, so what?)<br />
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The down side is that we aren't very close to any of our parents or siblings, but I'm trying to remind myself that there are a lot of families in that situation. For goodness sake, think of the traveling military families go through. I'm sure we will be just fine. I am super excited that I will be within about two hours or so of my Florida family members...people I next-to-never get the chance to see! I've got a lot of catching up to do!<br />
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So, I suppose that's it. It's been a whirlwind few weeks, but I wouldn't have had it any other way. The final pages of this chapter of our lives are here, and I can't wait to see what the next chapter will bring!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">The beautiful beach I was lucky enough to see last October in Florida...A year is too long to go without the ocean!</span></td></tr>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-52986678829085705682011-08-02T19:00:00.001-04:002011-08-04T01:43:15.640-04:00For Today, August 3rd<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wow, is it really <b>August</b>? <i>Already?</i> I just can't believe it. It seems like just yesterday I was taking down the Christmas decorations and making sure I had plenty of blankets out to buffer against the cold wind blowing in through the cracks in this old house. Summer seems to have flown right past me this year! Sure, it's still plenty warm enough outside here in Pennsylvania, but the way this year is flying by, it'll be cold again before I know it. I mean really...there are only four months until December! That sort of puts things into perspective...<br />
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So much has happened in the past few week, and I have definitely been super slack about getting around to my personal passions. I know life sometimes gets demanding, but I feel so out of touch lately with myself. I really can't wait for the tides of life to leave something new in the sand at my feet. I can feel things coming! My hubby graduated last month! It seemed so far away last year, when we picked up everything and moved to Pennsylvania for him to return to school. Now, I can't believe how fast the time has flown by. He's starting his internship in the coming days, and after that, we have the whole world ahead of us. There's no telling where we could end up since he will be looking for a position in his new field. It has been difficult not to hope that we can return to my beloved South Carolina. Pennsylvania is beautiful, but it certainly hasn't been home. One thing I learned from my first-ever huge move was that I am Southern to the core...and always will be. I know our future location will be up in the air, but I can't help but hope I land somewhere near home. Hopefully near the ocean.<br />
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It feels good to get back to writing for myself again. I have missed this outlet, and I am resolving right now to make more time for it, which means making more time for myself. The best way I could think of to start is by sharing a Daybook entry! I love The Simple Woman's Daybook. Doing an entry really helps you slow down, take a moment, and really be present in the here and now...<br />
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<i><a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/">(To participate in the Daybook, just click here!)</a></i></div>
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<b>Outside my window</b>... the sun is coming and going. Mostly going. We certainly need some rain around here though, so bring on the showers!<br />
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<b> I am thinking</b>...about the future. Yeah I know, I should try not to do that so much since I tend to worry and freak out, but I can’t help it. Honestly, I am trying a new approach to it. I’m consciously making a choice to release strict plans and try to be more open to whatever the universe has coming to me.<br />
<br />
<b> I am thankful</b>...for my supportive, loving husband. I don’t know how I got so lucky. He truly supports me and encourages me no matter what. If you look up perfect husband in the dictionary, you’ll find his picture. I am thankful for him every second of every day!<br />
<br />
<b> From the learning rooms</b>…life is a learning room around here these days! My hubby graduated in July and I am so proud, I can’t find the words to express it. We are both learning daily that life only gets better when you are lucky enough to spend it with your best friend. I can’t imagine facing the future without him. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b> In the kitchen</b>...blueberries, blueberries, and more blueberries! We can’t get enough of the amazingly huge blueberries from our local <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Conns-Blueberry-Farm/244212052273973">Conn’s Blueberry Farm</a>. We’ve been three times this season to pick. It’s a good thing you aren’t literally what you eat, because we’d both have turned into giant blueberries by now! We’re going again Thursday and can’t wait!<br />
<br />
<b> I am wearing</b>...yoga pants and a t-shirt. Hopefully, they will inspire me to work out more than being in jeans, hehe!<br />
<br />
<b> I am creating</b>...a whole lotta nothing right now. Life got the best of me, but I plan to get back on my creative streak as soon as possible. Starting with writing, right?<br />
<br />
<b> I am going</b>...to resolve to make more time for the things I love. Work, even if it is part time, feels like it has taken over around here! I have to make myself realize that my art isn’t just a hobby, it’s my passion. And, as my passion, it is just as important (if not more so) than things that might hold me back.<br />
<br />
<b> I am wondering</b>...if I have the nerve to step out and risk it.<br />
<br />
<b> I am reading</b>...<i>Duma Key</i> by Stephen King. You should be too.<br />
<br />
<b> I am hoping</b>...that everything works out for the best. <br />
<br />
<b> I am looking forward to</b>...what is ahead. I have a feeling September and October are going to be big around here!<br />
<br />
<b> I am hearing</b>...three sleeping cats. I just love that one sort of snores and the other two purr on their exhales. A napping cat is the picture of perfect relaxation.<br />
<br />
<b> Around the house</b>...chore have piled up again. Is it weird I miss doing them? I am so ready to dig in now that I have an afternoon or two free to actually spend time on our nest.<br />
<br />
<b> I am pondering</b>...this quote from one of my go-to inspirational books, <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fit-Within-Secrets-Starting-Lasting/dp/0071412603/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1312408385&sr=1-1">Fit from Within</a>: “Forever and next weekend can take care of themselves. You take care of today.”</i> <br />
<br />
<b> One of my favorite things</b>...hearing my little Charlie Bug’s sing-song meow as she plays with her all time favorite toy - her pink milk jug ring. Yeah…she has loads of toys and her favorite is a free piece of plastic. She always gets a look of sheer bliss when she walks around the house with it in her mouth. Silly kitty…<br />
<br />
<b> A few plans for the rest of the week</b>… Well, I am trying not to make too many. The general plan will be to get work done early so I can do at least one or two chores, then at least one thing for myself each day. <br />
<br />
<b> Picture for thought</b>… I have had SO much going on! Here’s a storyboard of just a few things that happened in the past month!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vagiTt95nO0/TjnOyF7wSAI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/Tb4xn7OInHw/s1600/julyhappenings-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vagiTt95nO0/TjnOyF7wSAI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/Tb4xn7OInHw/s1600/julyhappenings-WEB.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used an awesome Template by <a href="http://www.allisonkimball.com/my_weblog/about-me.html">Allison Kimball</a> for this layout!</td></tr>
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Thanks for stopping by, and if you made it this far, thanks for sticking with me! I really appreciate your visit!</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-77566208546832044472011-05-27T19:33:00.000-04:002011-05-27T19:33:31.065-04:00For Today...May 27thIt has been far too long since I blogged. I can't believe it, and I am going to strive to make it not be this long ever again! I have got to start taking time for me! So, the perfect way to focus and be present in the moment is the <a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/">Simple Woman's Daybook</a>. Make sure you visit the blog to participate yourself!<br />
<br />
<b>Outside my window...</b>the rain has stopped, but I think it may return.<br />
<br />
<b>I am thinking...</b> that being positive is the hardest thing on Earth to do most of the time. Why is that?<br />
<br />
<b>I am thankful for...</b>my home and family. A lot of people have lost it all in the last few weeks and I know how blessed I am to have a roof, my family, and the things I love around me.<br />
<br />
<b>From the learning rooms...</b>the end of school is drawing ever closer for my hubby. I'll be glad when he finishes because he works so hard at school and work. It's like having <i>two</i> full time jobs. He's burned out most of the time and I don't know how to help. I'll be very happy for the change and the new things (hopefully) coming after graduation.<br />
<br />
<b>From the kitchen...</b>more coffee. Yes, that addition is hard to break! It's like a warm hug from a friend -something I could really use right now.<br />
<br />
<b>I am wearing...</b>jeans and a sweatshirt. No matter how it tries, the weather can't quite shack off the cool temperatures around here! Get with the program PA weather...it is almost June!<br />
<br />
<b>I am creating...</b>well, that's a loaded question! I have been painting and drawing, but I have also been working on the behind-the-scenes efforts of opening an Etsy shop. Why must fun things be made so difficult by taxes and licenses. So discouraging!<br />
<br />
<b>I am going... </b>to take it minute by minute and one day at a time. It's all I <i>can</i> do.<br />
<br />
<b>I am reading... </b><i>Duma Key</i> by Stephen King. Wonderful so far, but it is making me more and more aware of how much I miss the ocean.<br />
<br />
<b>I am hoping... </b>things won't stay this hard for much longer.<br />
<br />
<b>I am hearing...</b>my new kittens making thunder upstairs. So full of energy!<br />
<br />
<b>Around the house...</b>same old stuff, different day. So many chores but I put my personal stuff behind other business. Sigh...<br />
<br />
<b>One of my favorite things...</b> how soft and warm Charlie and Bean (my new little girl and little boy) are when they beg to be cuddled. They've only been here a month and already I'm wrapped around their little paws.♥<br />
<br />
<b>A few plans for the rest of the week... </b>see "I am going..."! I'm going to breathe and take things one day at a time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b>Here is picture for thought I am sharing...</b> my sweet babies, Charlie and Bean. the story behind Charlie's name is this: we were told she was a boy, but upon further investigation when we made it home...she was definitely a girl. Charlie really has a rambunctious, tom-boy like personality, so the name still fits her very well! Bean is the sweetest momma's boy ever, with a curious streak a mile wide! They make me laugh when nothing else can. ♥<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YSprrjxin1I/TeAy8ivyfjI/AAAAAAAAA04/qroS3HHLZBk/s1600/charlieandbean_storyboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="406" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YSprrjxin1I/TeAy8ivyfjI/AAAAAAAAA04/qroS3HHLZBk/s640/charlieandbean_storyboard.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Charlie and Bean, our brand new babies...11 weeks old now!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-69258697250194298182011-04-07T21:19:00.000-04:002011-04-07T21:19:15.615-04:00For Today...April 7th<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/">To participate in the daybook, click here!</a></i></b></span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Outside my window</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...the day has faded to night and the traffic light is blinking at me from the corner.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am wearing</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> torn up jeans and a tee, did more painting today!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>I am thinking</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... how wonderful it is to have family and friends that support your dream. You know who you are, and I love you!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am thankful for</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> well, see above!!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>From the kitchen</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... hmm. Wasn't thinking about it until I read that! Now I'm hungry.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am creating</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... every day. I don't have to finish the project or painting, it's the process. Creating makes me feel alive and happy. It's my drug and I love it!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am reading</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... <i>Duma Key</i> by Stephen King. It's really making me miss the beach.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">From the learning rooms</span>...my hubby had a speech today in class! I wish I could have seen him, but I know that would make him nervous. I am SO proud of him, especially for his speech class. I can not tell you enough how much I fear/loath/avoid-at-all-costs speaking in public...or large groups of people. Ok, pretty much any social situation.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am hoping</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...I can keep this train on the tracks!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am hearing</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... the TV, both my and my hubby's typing. Yeah, we're that couple.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am going</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...to take this one day at a time. I deserve this!</span></div><div style="line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Around the house</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...laundry,dishes,general tidying...and creating, though I wouldn't call that a chore! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am remembering</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...to tell myself that I AM worth it, I AM valuable, and I DO deserve good things. I shouldn't be so hard to believe that stuff, right?</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Quote to commit to memory</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony." ~Gandhi ....and I am SO working on that!</span></span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small; line-height: 24px;"><br />
</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>A few plans for the week</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... getting some necessary things out of the way so I can get more paint on my hands and in my hair!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>One of my favorite things</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...spending a lazy afternoon with my hubby ♥</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>Photo for Thought</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... Today was beautiful, and warm enough to go check out the lake, post-winter. Since the weather is warming up, but the water hasn't, there was an odd ring of fog surrounding town all day. It was clear and beautiful right in town, but by the lake, a defined wall of fog. We walked along the water, so I decided to take a shot or two. </span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Also, I finished a mixed media piece today that I was pretty excited about., so I'll share that too! Thanks for stopping by my blog, have a great night!</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kXXnxxykkNQ/TZ5gar6VT2I/AAAAAAAAA0I/8q3LqhaZdSY/s1600/005-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="347" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kXXnxxykkNQ/TZ5gar6VT2I/AAAAAAAAA0I/8q3LqhaZdSY/s640/005-WEB.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">You can usually see for miles and miles, but today, you couldn't see the water until you were right up on the edge!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k1GTT_l_Zj8/TZ5gbLEMuuI/AAAAAAAAA0M/7RgqrgeLa2M/s1600/010-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="468" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k1GTT_l_Zj8/TZ5gbLEMuuI/AAAAAAAAA0M/7RgqrgeLa2M/s640/010-WEB.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">There's still some 'burgs in the lake, and the birds were taking advantage!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdKO74T_Kes/TZ5gbrk5W2I/AAAAAAAAA0Q/GitTq6hBlDg/s1600/016-WEB01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdKO74T_Kes/TZ5gbrk5W2I/AAAAAAAAA0Q/GitTq6hBlDg/s1600/016-WEB01.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Find Magic</i>, original mixed media (by me!) on 5x7 art board.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-65571065468384867342011-03-29T14:48:00.002-04:002011-03-29T22:58:42.341-04:00For Today...March 29th It feels so good to have a minute for myself, to sit down and round up my thoughts! I think I may have only blogged once this entire month, not counting today, and that is not OK for me. I really need to carve out more time for myself.<br />
I have been trying to do just that as far as my art! It feels amazing to be creatively active again on canvas, and I have big plans coming up, if I can work out the logistics. It's such an exciting time for me right now when I stop to think about it. I'm painting again, my hubby graduates in six months with his degree in Biomedical Electronics, which means we are that much closer to finding another place to move as he applies for placement in his new career...no wonder I feel so wobbly. I don't know about you, but the change of seasons, coupled with daily life occurrences, always makes me feel like I'm in a tailspin. Meh...that could just be my weird mind at work too, though. Who knows!<br />
I thought this would be a great time to start my Daybook up again. you know, sometimes a list to fill out gets the creative juices flowing. It's sort of like meditating. It gives your mind something to focus on! So, with no further ado, here's my March daybook:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Outside my window</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...it is bright and sunny, finally! A bit misleading since it is only 26°F out today! I can't wait for warm weather...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am wearing</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> torn up jeans and a tee. Getting ready to paint!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>I am thinking</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... short term. I need to live more in the moment and not worry about tomorrow. While those close to me know, I never stop worrying, trying to just think moment to moment is getting easier all the time. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am thankful for</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> my loving, supportive husband. I can't say it enough! I'm also super proud of him for his hard work in school. My A student is really going places!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>From the kitchen</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... coffee! French Vanilla, you are my warm and comforting friend.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am creating</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... again! It feels wonderful. I have a process,which really is a moody one, but as long as I keep plodding forward in the process, I always work it out! I love mixed media, so I'm trying to get more into that realm as much as I can.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am reading</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... <i>Duma Key</i> by Stephen King. Thought I'd give this one my free time since it's about a painter! I just finished <i>Bright Lights, Big Ass</i> by <a href="http://www.jennsylvania.com/">Jen Lancaster</a>. You simply must pick up one or all of her books. She is so hilarious! Oh, and follow her blog. Do it now!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>From the learning rooms</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">... my hubby is on the cusp of his next school term! After this next term, he starts his extern-ship, and we are super duper excited about the wonderful company he will be working with! </span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am hoping</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...I can make my plans a reality soon. I don't want to jinx it, so no hints right now.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am hearing</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... The Bold & The Beautiful. Yeah, guilty pleasure. I grew up watching that and The Young and the Restless with my mom. I like to watch them...feels like girlie time with my mom. Is that weird?</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am going</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...have a great day today. I will, I will, I will!</span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Around the house</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...laundry,dishes,general tidying...repeat. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am remembering</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...taking time for me is not a luxury. We all got that idea somewhere along the way, and it isn't true. Taking time for yourself is so important for your mental health. Believe me, I know!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Quote to commit to memory</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... <i>"An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind." ~Gandi</i></span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; line-height: 24px;"><br />
</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>A few plans for the week</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... finish up this piece on the easel and start at least one more, then just general duties about the house (made easier because we got the dryer replaced! Yay clean laundry!)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>One of my favorite things</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...glue and paper on canvas!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>Photo for Thought</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...I have been so excited about painting again. I've been a busy bee, so I thought I'd share. I don't really have a theme, I just paint things I love or that I feel drawn to at the moment. Anyhow, these are what I have been up to since February!</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ylQo5EI4I6Y/TZIahRpafJI/AAAAAAAAAzs/anp_gWXihA4/s1600/paintingstoryboard_march2011+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="437" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ylQo5EI4I6Y/TZIahRpafJI/AAAAAAAAAzs/anp_gWXihA4/s640/paintingstoryboard_march2011+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">I did a portrait of a good friend's cat, Bandit, then went out on a limb with an abstract. I then painted one of my favorite places in the world, The Angel Oak in Charleston, SC.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> Thanks for stopping by today! If you want to participate in <a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/">The Simple Woman's Daybook</a>, head on over to the site and get to writing. If you don't blog, but love reading, you can read other women's daybook entries there, too. Enjoy and have a wonderful day!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-49049851192804388712011-03-08T13:30:00.005-05:002011-03-08T13:30:00.521-05:00Finding my Muse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AYvqcVWUxCE/TXZ0os-hf0I/AAAAAAAAAzk/DCSPTUxTQdo/s1600/Paintings+007-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AYvqcVWUxCE/TXZ0os-hf0I/AAAAAAAAAzk/DCSPTUxTQdo/s400/Paintings+007-WEB.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> I've been so bogged down in work and running around lately. Lately meaning, as far back as I can think right now. All the while, I've been trying in earnest to be more present and mindful in each day and moment. I always seem to fall right back into worries and stress, no matter how hard I try not to. I know life comes with stress, and that a lot of it simply can't be avoided...but sometimes I feel like I am wearing concrete boots in the middle of a sea of quick sand. Have you ever felt like that?<div> Thankfully, my husband is the best possible supporter I could have been blessed with. Rob never stops picking me up, dusting me off, and placing me back on which ever shelf from which I fell. He is my everything. And, he is the one that encouraged me to start painting again. I never stopped on purpose you see. It's one of those things that happen when you grow up. I just sort of never got around to it anymore. Sure, scrapbooking or baking occupy me and make me smile. Photography is fun, and I have a penchant for covering anything I can get my hands on with paper, but there's something about painting. Creating something from a blank slate.</div><div> Maybe it's the fear I have of not liking anything I do, but I think its a combination of all of my emotional issues. I tend to implode and become still when I am stressed or scared...which is most of the time. So painting something seemed like a lost cause. Why, you know? Why start something I might hate, waste all that time or money on materials? That's just how my brain works. </div><div> Well, Rob doesn't see life that way. He keeps nudging and encouraging me, and so a few weeks ago he made me do something <i>for me</i>. That's the problem. I have an extraordinarily hard time doing something simply for me...past taking a walk or making a cup of coffee, that is. So when I had a single small pay check from my job at the restaurant, he drove me to the art store and told me to buy myself some paint. The universe had the same idea since the forty-eight tube set of acrylics was on sale for 50% off. After a mini-breakdown in the paint aisle over saving the $24 for something we needed more, Rob marched up front and paid for the paint before I could change my mind.</div><div> Thank God for my husband. Paint might not cure anxiety or depression, but there is definitely something to this art therapy stuff. Sure, I still have the ups and downs that come with working on the painting...pressing forward to find the piece in that blank space, but I feel so much better after I spend time doing nothing but moving colors around on that canvas. Life goes away for a while and I get to be happy in my own little world. I like that. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BXkCF6I1uhU/TXZ03U3lgCI/AAAAAAAAAzo/cQJRhbn7Hpk/s1600/mermaidpaitning_storyboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BXkCF6I1uhU/TXZ03U3lgCI/AAAAAAAAAzo/cQJRhbn7Hpk/s640/mermaidpaitning_storyboard.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div> So, my point is that I have been diving into my painting again! Living here in northwest Pennsylvania and so far from my beloved ocean, I naturally gravitated toward the nautical. I like to think I have an inner mermaid, so I decided to try my hand at letting her come out. I'm pretty happy with the outcome...</div><div> I hope you have something in your life that brings you joy, like painting. It can be anything...gardening, reading, travel. What ever it is, do it. Taking time for yourself is not a luxury, it is a requirement. One I'm learning about daily. Go find your inner mermaid...I sure am.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-76752465412003043442011-02-20T14:41:00.000-05:002011-02-20T14:41:32.102-05:00For Today...February 20, 2011<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/" style="color: #bba021; text-decoration: none;"><b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small;">To participate in the Daybooks, head to the blog!</span></i></b></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222;"><i></i></span></div></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i><b><br />
</b></i></div></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Outside my window</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...the snow has all but melted, though it is still really cold. I remember last year, we didn't have any snow past the end of February. I love to watch it snow, but right now, I am so ready for warm weather so I can head to the water's edge in my flip flops.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am wearing</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> jammies. I think I have come down with the icky sinus funk going around up here.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>I am thinking</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...random thoughts. Warm sunshine, flowers, loved ones, not wasting a moment with those we cherish. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am thankful for</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">life. No matter how hard it gets sometimes. There might be long periods of darkness or down times, but just at my lowest point, there's a break in the clouds. If even for a second, to remind me to cherish life.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>From the kitchen</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...nothing much today. Being stuffy doesn't inspire much hunger.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am creating</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...slowly. And in spurts. I did actually do some painting this month and got two pieces I am pretty happy with. I'll share a picture of one of them, made for my hubby as a Valentine gift. The other is for a project of sorts. I had posted a status on my personal Facebook about a handmade exchange. I didn't get many takers, since the catch was you then had to repost offering your handmade goodies. But I did have one commenter...and if she's reading this I don't want her to see her surprise!</span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tVckgOClEAM/TWFmx50VCBI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/6M8zUWm6w0M/s1600/february+011-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tVckgOClEAM/TWFmx50VCBI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/6M8zUWm6w0M/s1600/february+011-WEB.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rob's gift on my easel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am reading</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... well. I started <i>Digging Up Otis</i> by T. Dawn Richard and <i>You're Not Who You Think You Are</i> by Albert Clayton Gaulden. I usually only do one book at a time, but sometimes, if they are different enough, I read two. These two aren't really that engaging...so I picked up a Jen Lancaster book at Borders here in town, and LOVE it! <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bright-Lights-Big-Ass-Self-Indulgent/dp/0451221257">Bright Lights, Big Ass</a></i> is too hilarious and you should go get it. NOW. And while you're at it, read <a href="http://www.jennsylvania.com/">Jen's Blog</a>. it's just as hilarious!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>From the learning rooms</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...I'm learning to give myself time. For some reason, I have this thing in my brain that I have to do a perfect, finished painting in one sitting. yeah, sometimes it takes more time! My hubby is still doing very well in his classes. I still can't believe it's been a year since he began and that he graduates in September! Right now, September feels like a lifetime away, but I know it's just right around the corner. I'm so proud of him!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am hoping</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...to figure out what the heck the deal is with my hormones. It's been going on for a while, but since turning the big 3-0, it seems so much worse. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am hearing</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...a cat purring in her sleep and the best cooking show on PBS, Cooks Country!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am going</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...give myself a break...I swear I will. After doing some writing work, I'm going to make a big pot of tea and cuddle up with my cat and my book for the rest of the day.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Around the house</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...laundry,dishes,general tidying...how does this much crap pile up so quickly?</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am remembering</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...Rob's grandmother, known to most of the family as Grandma Great. She passed away this past Tuesday, and the funeral was Saturday. Since we lived in South Carolina, I didn't see her much. But, the times I did, I enjoyed thoroughly! She was a vibrant spirit that never lost her childlike fun side. Her apple dumplings were out of this world, and she loved everyone she met. We were still about 4 hours away living here in North East, so we didn't see her much, but when she got sick we planned a trip to see her on Rob's next day off. She passed before then, so our last visit was the family reunion last September. I am so thankful I could call her family, and that I met and got to know such a wonderful lady. </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0r5eFTBREjY/TWFtXoUIEQI/AAAAAAAAAzY/5dNoRsQjPXs/s1600/185987_1540289918583_1574988079_31127753_2445043_n-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0r5eFTBREjY/TWFtXoUIEQI/AAAAAAAAAzY/5dNoRsQjPXs/s400/185987_1540289918583_1574988079_31127753_2445043_n-WEB.jpg" width="393" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Quote to commit to memory</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... <i>"There are two ways to live your life. One, as if nothing is a miracle. The other, as though everything is a miracle." ~Albert </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><i>Einstein</i></span></span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; line-height: 24px;"><br />
</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>A few plans for the week</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... well, just getting well is first. I'm not what my family always called "Sick-sick". I'm that nagging, stuffy, wipe-your-nose-every-two-seconds kind of sick. So resting and lots of fluids for me. I'm sure the housework will still be here in a few days...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>One of my favorite things</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...waking up to see my cat all snuggled up next to me. She is mommy's precious little snuggle bug!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>Photo for Thought</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...I have to share this picture of Rob and his grandmother from our wedding. I just love the story behind it! See, after the wedding ceremony, the wedding party and the family had to gather for the posed shots before the reception. Well, Grandma Grape <i>(as the younger kids called her) </i>had misplaced her teeth in the flurry of getting ready at the house before the wedding. Rob's mom had told him about it...they had almost been late looking for them! Well, when it was her turn to stand and smile with Rob, he looked down and said, "I guess you found your teeth!" and she just blushed, then smacked him and said, "Oh, Robbie!" Our fabulous photographer, Brendon Sharpe, caught the moment and we cherish this photo! I thought it was a fitting memory to share in Grandma Peck's honor. She is greatly missed!</span></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7xVb9oVpv9U/TWFsrGu9xgI/AAAAAAAAAzU/rvrBsQ3tJDU/s1600/atRobsWedding2008_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7xVb9oVpv9U/TWFsrGu9xgI/AAAAAAAAAzU/rvrBsQ3tJDU/s640/atRobsWedding2008_02.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-90042912988183534412011-01-31T17:22:00.000-05:002011-01-31T17:22:50.037-05:00February Desktop Freebie!It's almost February, so heeeeeeere's your freebie! I hope you enjoy it! Happy February and have a great Valentine's Day. The weather people here are calling for a "doozie of a snow storm" tonight, but I'm going to wait and see. Hopefully the power stays on, so I can tell you all about it! Enjoy your desktop and thanks for stopping by!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.4shared.com/file/BJ8n1-iM/Feb_Freebie_Polka_Dot_Pancakes.html">Download Here!</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TUc1b5XLlWI/AAAAAAAAAzI/9v490FkNm3k/s1600/PREVIEW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TUc1b5XLlWI/AAAAAAAAAzI/9v490FkNm3k/s640/PREVIEW.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Remember, I only assemble the desktops. there are a lot of wonderful designers who are very generous! Read the TOU and make sure t visit them!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-48996656882218315772011-01-27T09:30:00.000-05:002011-01-27T09:30:01.378-05:00The Two Pots...and More Life Lessons. I often need a reminder to be more kind to myself. Ok, more than <i>often</i>! I am, according to my husband, more than a little harsh with myself most of the time. I beat myself up a lot, hold myself to extremely high (sometimes unattainable) standards, and am pretty much my Own Worst Enemy. Aren't we all a little like this? I hope I'm not the only one...but then again, I hope no one else's own-worst-enemy is as harsh as mine, either. Because of this, I really seek encouraging, supportive things out. Whether they be friends, websites, books, art, or the like. Well, fellow blogger <a href="http://www.fififlowers.com/">Fifi Flowers</a> posted the best story the other day, and it was just the reminder I needed. I am always amazed at where and when the universe places these little bits of sunshine in my life. I was just reading through a few blogs I follow, and there it was, just what I needed...just when I needed it. I had to share it with you! I couldn't find a place on her post to comment, so I'll thank her here for posting this story. Thanks <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1273003379">Fifi</a>!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The Two Pots</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;">a story</span></i><br />
<div style="color: #073763;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #073763; text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TUDPAaNnA0I/AAAAAAAAAzA/XqnxLf79xhQ/s1600/broken-pot+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TUDPAaNnA0I/AAAAAAAAAzA/XqnxLf79xhQ/s320/broken-pot+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> An elderly Chinese woman had two large pots, each hung on the ends of a pole which she carried across her neck. One of the pots had a crack in it while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water. At the end of the long walks from the stream to the house, the cracked pot arrived only half full. For a full two years this went on daily, with the woman bringing home only one and a half pots of water. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments. But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it could only do half of what it had been made to do. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> After two years of what it perceived to be bitter failure, it spoke to the woman one day by the stream. "I am ashamed of myself, because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house."</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> The old woman smiled, "Did you notice that there are flowers on your side of the path, but not on the other pot's side? That's because I have always known about your flaw, so I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you water them. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table. Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house."</span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Each of us has our own unique flaws...we are all cracked pots. But it's the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and rewarding. You've just got to take each person for what they are and look for the good in them, and don't be afraid of your cracks.</span></i></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TUDPN1bhbJI/AAAAAAAAAzE/XFrr0AxPu4w/s1600/IS098QX0N.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TUDPN1bhbJI/AAAAAAAAAzE/XFrr0AxPu4w/s320/IS098QX0N.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> It's OK. I can admit... I cried a little when I finished reading it, too. How beautiful; the little cracked pot was making the world beautiful and didn't even realize it! This made me stop and think how grateful I am for the people in my life that accept me, cracks and all. It reminds me to be that sort of friend to myself. I hope I am making a difference, just like the little flawed pot. Make sure you slow down and notice the world around you today. Tomorrow too, because one day, you will realize the little things in life we try to squeeze into our busy schedules are really the big things! </span></span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-88912666193976608832011-01-20T10:00:00.041-05:002011-01-20T10:00:02.265-05:00A Lesson from a Carrot, an Egg, and a Cup of Coffee<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif;"> I was in search of some quotes last night and remembered <i>Hey! I follow <a href="http://twiceremembered.blogspot.com/">The Twice Remembered Cottage</a>!</i> A beautiful blog full of inspiration, motivation, and...quotes! I was having fun reading through posts when one in particular caught my eye. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif;"> Now, I have to explain something. I feel like this year is a time of change and metamorphosis for me for some reason, and I have been antsy, almost tortured, by the fact that I don't let my creativity out to play enough. I know I have a whole galaxy of creative... <i>oomph</i> inside me, and I could be doing more, but fear (among other things) stops me. I like to think I'm strong, but sometimes (and I know we all do this at some point) I just want to throw up my hands, throw in the towel, and give up. I'm not quite there yet, but I've been there many times. Right now, I am just...I don't know. I think the universe is working around me and I just don't know where it's taking me right now. I feel fragile right now and in need of some motivation and inspiration to propel my creation. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif;"> That's where this post from <a href="http://twiceremembered.blogspot.com/2006/06/carrot-egg-and-coffee-message-to-share.html">The Twice Remembered Cottage</a> comes in. I truly believe the universe puts things in front of me when I need it, and this is one of those things. This story is so simple, but it's essence is wonderful. Well here, let it speak for itself.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TTeW-cr1aGI/AAAAAAAAAy4/22sh8nzjJJ8/s1600/carrot-egg-coffee11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TTeW-cr1aGI/AAAAAAAAAy4/22sh8nzjJJ8/s640/carrot-egg-coffee11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Carrot, Egg, and Coffee</span></i></b></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><br />
</span></i></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-style: normal;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee...You will never look at a </span></i></span></span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-style: normal;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">cup of coffee the same way again.</span></i></span></span></i></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.<br />
Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil, without saying a word.<br />
In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> Turning to her daughter, she asks, "Tell me what you see."<br />
"Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.<br />
Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.<br />
Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma. The daughter then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"<br />
Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.<br />
"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?"<br />
Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?<br />
Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a break-up, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?<br />
Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavour. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?<br />
May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.<br />
The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.<br />
When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.</span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif;"> Isn't that beautiful? There are so many things in there that I need to be reminded of and retaught daily. I have been, and probably continue to be, all three from time to time. What this little story was put in my path to tell me was that I should strive to be the coffee. Thank goodness I will never see these three objects in the same way again. From my heart, I repeat these beautiful words: May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong,enough sorrow to keep you human, and enough hope to make you happy. And, may we all be coffee.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-16792912042561984752011-01-12T18:10:00.000-05:002011-01-12T18:10:30.223-05:00For Today...First Daybook for 2011<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">To participate in the Daybooks, head to the blog!</span></i></b></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222;"><i></i></span></div></div><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i><b><br />
</b></i></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Outside my window</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...it is beginning to snow again! Most people around here think I'm crazy, but I sure do love watching it snow. It makes everything so beautiful!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am wearing</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> yoga pants and long sleeve tee, getting ready to tackle my Pilates!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>I am thinking</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... a lot of different things. I think I need to do more for myself and not give everything I have to others before giving time to myself. Sounds like a late addition to the resolution list, huh?</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am thankful for</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> my loving, supportive husband. I can't say it enough!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>From the kitchen</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... well, today's lunch was the last serving of my homemade pot pie, and I already want to hit up the grocery store for more pot pie supplies! I think for now though, I'll put on some coffee for a little coffee break after my workout.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am creating</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... well, nothing for myself, but I am working on some Facebook and blog stuff for work. I hate code. Did I mention that? yeah...I hate code.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am reading</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... a few things! I started a book for our Christmas drive, left that book at my Grandmother's, so I got a book at an outlet. Now I am reading both...<i>Digging Up Otis</i> by T. Dawn Richard and <i>You're Not Who You Think You Are</i> by Albert Clayton Gaulden. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>From the learning rooms</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... my hubby has started Anatomy & Physiology class, among others, and he was very scared about his first test. But I knew he could do it and...he mad an A!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am hoping</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...I can keep my promise to myself to take time for my ventures.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am hearing</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... Dr. Phil. Why haven't I changed the channel yet?</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am going</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...to do my pilates workout right after posting...I swear I will.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Around the house</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...laundry,dishes,general tidying...repeat. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>I am remembering</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...My Great Uncle Homer. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">My Uncle Homer passed away a few days ago and he will be laid to rest tomorrow. I just hate that I can't make it home, but my heart is with them all. My favorite memory will always be Christmas time with him. Every year, when we visited his house, he had a red bulb in his freezer. He told us Santa was going to have a harder time getting around, because he finally got Rudolph! He got me every year with that! I won't even tell you how old I was when I finally figured out the trick...He will be greatly missed.<br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Quote to commit to memory</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... <i>"For whatever we lose (like a you or a me), it's always our self we find in the sea." </i>e.e. cummings</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 24px;"><br />
</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>A few plans for the week</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... I have a lot of work to do actually, but I also need to get this house cleaned up. I made a deal with my hubby. I got the cutest note on my desk last week: "PLEASE don't take the tree down yet...I love it!" Well, the deal was I take the tree down when our neighbors take their down, or by the 15th or 20th. Which ever comes first. It looks like we might be going for the 20th because my husband pouts when ever i mention it!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>One of my favorite things</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">...enjoying a nice cup of coffee and watching it snow!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>Photo for Thought</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">... well, i thought I'd share a snow picture with you, since we got our share of it today!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TS4z9T542LI/AAAAAAAAAyM/u0XOgdiHpRs/s1600/January+12+Snow+Fall+002-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="448" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TS4z9T542LI/AAAAAAAAAyM/u0XOgdiHpRs/s640/January+12+Snow+Fall+002-WEB.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our front yard...nearly 8 inches! Yay!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TS4z-HU3M9I/AAAAAAAAAyQ/uc6V1etKCfI/s1600/January+12+Snow+Fall+009-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TS4z-HU3M9I/AAAAAAAAAyQ/uc6V1etKCfI/s640/January+12+Snow+Fall+009-WEB.jpg" width="578" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My own little collection of snow cones, complete with holder! </td></tr>
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</span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-15101093049065212022011-01-10T20:23:00.024-05:002011-01-10T22:43:30.724-05:00Weight Watchers & Homemade Goodness...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TSu8PN6CoeI/AAAAAAAAAxk/A-4-rByNj0A/s1600/IS098R1AB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TSu8PN6CoeI/AAAAAAAAAxk/A-4-rByNj0A/s320/IS098R1AB.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">imagesource.com</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> January and 2011 has started out pretty good around here, and that makes me feel...well, awesome! The hubs and I are doing well with our renewed commitment to healthy and long lasting weight loss. Ok, back up a second...I guess I should mention my Christmas gift! All I could think of when Rob asked me what I might want for Christmas was the new kit from <a href="http://www.weightwatchers.com/index.aspx">Weight Watchers</a>.<br />
This was more difficult than it sounds. Neither of us are members, nor do we have the money to join. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(Yeah, yeah. We'd love to, but the whole pay-your-bills thing was more important.)</i></span> Anywho...we have a few friends at work that are members that we were talking with and were totally willing to pick up a kit for us. Of course, we never got around to coordinating it all. So, I told my hubby all I really wanted was the new <a href="http://www.weightwatchers.com/plan/apr/index.aspx">PointsPlus</a> kit. I even looked up a local store, but I figured we'd either have to go to a meeting, or have a member get it for us. Those of you who know me know one thing...I don't do meetings. It's the whole public speaking/ fear of groups thing, and frankly, it's a huge problem I'll talk about at some point. Just not now... So Christmas came and I get the most beautiful card from my hubby promising to commit to being healthy and growing old together. And the new Weight Watchers PointsPlus Kit!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TSu8kcBYSsI/AAAAAAAAAxo/YUjj3BjMvX0/s1600/IS098UW56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TSu8kcBYSsI/AAAAAAAAAxo/YUjj3BjMvX0/s320/IS098UW56.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">imagesource.com</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> We officially started our journey on New Year's Day, and I have to say it's great! It was easy the first time, but I tended to crave things. This time around, I have to remind myself to eat! I think my favorite part if that fruit is now "free". I'm much more likely to reach for a banana or grapes as a snack now instead of a granola bar. The wonderful thing is, this new program helps me to manage my protein to carbs ratio and I feel so much better! The first week's weigh in was January 8th and I'd lost nearly 3 pounds, and Rob lost 7.2 pounds. Needless to say, we are two pretty happy campers.<br />
Because it's easier, and more affordable, to eat at home, I've been cooking even more, so I've been a recipe hound. Also, I'm a sucker for homemade anything! Well, I found this recipe posted on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/weightwatchers">Weight Watcher's Facebook page</a> and stopped cold.<br />
I love chicken pot pie. No, seriously... I <i><b>LOVE</b></i> it. Alas, most all of them are so loaded with fat and calories that they are a huge no no. I was skeptical...Weight Watchers or not, is a light pot pie recipe worth the trouble? Well, I'm here to tell you it absolutely is! I was so excited, I decided to document making it, so get your napkin, it's time for tempting to begin! <a href="http://www.weightwatchers.com/food/rcp/index.aspx?recipeid=135821">Here's the recipe link</a>, but I'll list it here for you too. Complete with my advice of course!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TSvJw6FxhWI/AAAAAAAAAxs/2oG9-ronK6M/s1600/Pot+Pie+018-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TSvJw6FxhWI/AAAAAAAAAxs/2oG9-ronK6M/s1600/Pot+Pie+018-WEB.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The result...I can't tell you how happy I am. That's one more photogenic pot pie!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Homemade Chicken Pot Pie</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">from Weight Watchers</span></i></b></div><blockquote>Cooking Spray <i>(I like Pam)</i></blockquote><blockquote>1 tsp butter</blockquote><blockquote>1 small onion chopped</blockquote><blockquote>2 cups mushrooms, sliced <i>(I cut this...not too big on mushrooms)</i></blockquote><blockquote>1/4 tsp paprika</blockquote><blockquote>1/4 tsp dried thyme, crushed</blockquote><blockquote>1/4 tsp black pepper</blockquote><blockquote>1/2 tsp salt, or to taste</blockquote><blockquote>2 cups frozen mixed veggies</blockquote><blockquote>1 cup chicken broth <i>(I like Swanson's)</i></blockquote><blockquote>3 cups roasted chicken, chopped <i>(again, I used Swanson's White Meat canned chicken)</i></blockquote><blockquote>2 TBsp all purpose flour</blockquote><blockquote>1/2 cup fat free evaporated milk, divided</blockquote><blockquote>4 reduced fat crescent rolls <i>(8 come in a can, I used 6...more on this later)</i></blockquote><br />
<ul><li>Preheat your oven to 375° and find a 9 to 10" pie plate. The recipe calls for a 10" but I used a 9" and it came out just find. Spray the pie plate with your cooking spray and set it aside.</li>
<li>In a large sauce pot, melt your butter over medium heat then add your onion and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until tender.</li>
<li>Stir in your spices, veggies, broth, and chicken. Cover and simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes.</li>
<li>Meanwhile, combine 1/4 cup evaporated milk and your 2 TBsp flour in a small bowl. Pour into your sauce pot and mix over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly. ( about 2 minutes)</li>
<li>Stir in remaining evaporated milk and cook to slightly thickened. (2 or 3 minutes more)</li>
<li>Remove from heat and pour into your prepared pie plate.</li>
<li>Unroll the crescent rolls and arrange on top (I put four around the edge, corners touching, then covered the hole with two more. That makes six.)</li>
<li>Brush top lightly with a small amount of egg white. (I used a teaspoon or so of Egg Beaters)</li>
<li>Bake in your preheated oven until the crescents are golden brown, and filling is bubbly. Enjoy!</li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TSvOhCX9-oI/AAAAAAAAAxw/72dX3u7FncM/s1600/potpie_collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TSvOhCX9-oI/AAAAAAAAAxw/72dX3u7FncM/s640/potpie_collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> This recipe makes six servings, and they are huge. <i>Huge!</i> Seriously, it's not a skimpy portion at all, and it is totally worth the Points! Just to put it in perspective...my favorite store bought pie is something like 18 Points...for <b>half</b> the small pie. It's a measly amount of food for the Points, believe me. I get 29 daily Points total. This recipe is <i>6 Points</i> per serving as they posted it. Adding the two extra crescent squares makes each serving 8 Points, according to some of the comments on their website. Yeah, I was <i>super</i> excited about that...Chicken Pot Pie is my <i><u>favorite</u></i> comfort food! I must say, I had one happy hubby on my hands as well, which is always a bonus.<br />
As you can tell, I love this recipe and I will definitely be making it regularly. I can't wait to try different takes on it, and play around with it a little. I think this would be amazing as a beef dish...I'll let you know when that happens! I'd love to know if you take this recipe for a test drive, too! I'm all about sharing a good thing! For now though, I need to put the leftovers away....in the fridge.<br />
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-62577620121263733672011-01-01T19:32:00.000-05:002011-01-01T19:32:03.184-05:00A New Year, a New Freebie! Hello everyone! I hope your Christmas season was amazing! Our sure was...I was so busy I didn't write anything all month! Well, I'm resolving to get back to writing in this new year. My husband and I also resolved to get back to our healthy habits. When we were planning our wedding in 2008, we followed the Weight Watchers plan and had success. As life will do, we got busy, moved, rushed, and lost track of our good habits, but no more! My sweet husband got the brand new <a href="http://www.weightwatchers.com/index.aspx">PointsPlus Weight Watchers</a> program for us this Christmas and we are heading back to our healthy habits for good. Sure, there will be bumps, but I just know this time we will make sure to live the healthy life and not get off track. You can even follow his weight loss journey over on his blog, <a href="http://www.averagerob.blogspot.com/">Just Your Average Rob</a>! He'll tell you himself, he has more to lose than me. But that doesn't matter, because we will be doing it together! I couldn't be more proud of him, and I can't wait to update as we go.<br />
But now, for what most of you came here looking for...your January 2011 Desktop Freebie!! I made it just in time for the first day of the year! Guess I should also resolve to plan ahead more as well, huh? Anyway, here it is squeaking in at the last minute. As always, there are two popular sizes I hope fit your needs. I hope you enjoy it and that your 2011 is the best year yet! Happy New Year everyone! Love and light to you all!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.4shared.com/file/qBV4CEFG/PolkaDotPancakes_JanuaryFreebi.html">download here</a></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TR_E9ALdPWI/AAAAAAAAAwY/O0rIGORvHCM/s1600/PREVIEW.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TR_E9ALdPWI/AAAAAAAAAwY/O0rIGORvHCM/s1600/PREVIEW.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">As always, I just made the desktop, not the elements or papers, so please visit these amazingly generous designers, OK!</span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">template: Lauren Grier</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">papers: Allison Kimball, Friendly scrap Designs, Alana Designs, FarFar Hill Designs</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Calendar and Month text: Biograffiti</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Pine: Raspberry Road Designs</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">tag: 3 Paper Peonies</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">snowflakes, brads, and frame: Delicious Scraps</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Ribbons: LilliMou Designs, Elo Designs, Ali Edwards, and Corina Neilson</span></span></i></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-6422615405729351702010-12-01T11:06:00.000-05:002010-12-01T11:06:02.987-05:00December 2010 Desktop Freebie!!! It's here! December has made it...seems like it was just yesterday I was picking July blueberries with my friends from Savannah (Hi Deanna and Mary!). Now Christmas is coming up fast, then 2011...WOW!<br />
Anyway...I made a desktop for the last month of 2010 and I hope you enjoy it! There are two popular sizes, so hopefully, you will find one that works for you. I want to wish you a happy holiday season, no matter what holiday you celebrate! And Merry Christmas...and don't forget the real reason for the season!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.4shared.com/file/bW6UoOg9/Dec2010Freebie.html">Download here!</a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TPZvRoOaweI/AAAAAAAAAwM/D5T-EuJyICY/s1600/PREVIEW_MelissaSherbon_PolkaDotPancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TPZvRoOaweI/AAAAAAAAAwM/D5T-EuJyICY/s1600/PREVIEW_MelissaSherbon_PolkaDotPancakes.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I only make the layouts with beautiful freebies from these generous designers...make sure you visit them!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Raspberry Road Designs</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"> joy of christmas add-on kit (papers, elements)<b>Sabrina's Creations</b> (template)<b>Katie Pertiet </b>(Deck The Halls tab)<b>Miss Cutie Pie</b> (Vintage Santa pic)<b>Mini Calendar</b> (Gypsy Designs)<b>Jessica Art Design</b> (music WA on background)<b>Shabby Princess</b> (safety pin and polka dot ribbons)<b>Dani Mogstad</b> (Bow)</span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Thanks for visiting...don't be a stranger!</div></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-3278769631692499422010-11-15T12:45:00.001-05:002010-11-15T12:47:01.549-05:00For Today...November 15th<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Outside my window:</b> it is sunny and chilly. Winter is fast approaching, especially since the news just said there will be rain snow mix this weekend.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>I am hearing:</b>well, aside from the news, my cat is sitting in the window in front of me purring and enjoying a sun puddle. Best sound ever!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>I am wearing:</b> yoga pants and a t-shirt...thinking about a sweater though!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>From the kitchen:</b> i had an Activia Peach yogurt (yummy!) and a banana</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>I am thankful for: </b>life reminding me in little ways everyday to be mindful and present in each moment.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>I am going:</b> to have to get a sweater! Then, who knows.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Noticing that: </b>yoga is harder than it looks, but the hardest part is being kind and nonjudgmental to yourself while practicing. </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>I am reading: </b><i>My Lobotomy</i> by Howard Dully (a birthday gift and a great book!)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>From the learning rooms:</b> My hubby is still doing very well in his school work! As for me, I am trying daily...well, minute by minute actually, to be mindful. I am really trying to be kinder, more patient, and nonjudgmental toward myself. It's really hard.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>On my mind:</b> my grandmother and my family in Florida. </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Quote for Thought:</b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"Whenever something negative happens to you, there is a deep lesson concealed within it." -Eckhart Tolle</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>One of my favorite things:</b> the moment right after my hubby walking in the door from school or work. I love seeing his smile and getting a great big warm hug!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>I'm creating:</b> a new routine. I feel like I need to work on my spiritual and physical self a little before I can do much creative work.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Around the house:</b> the usual to-dos of laundry and dishes of course!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>A few plans for the week:</b> taking it day to day, but I am planning to practice with my AM yoga and PM yoga daily for starters.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>From my lens: </b>this is just a beautiful picture I found on a positive thoughts website. Sorry I forgot to write down the address. This is very calming isn't it? Love this!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TOFwluAteFI/AAAAAAAAAvM/ks0KMgG52i8/s1600/positivethoughtsblog_starfishpicture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TOFwluAteFI/AAAAAAAAAvM/ks0KMgG52i8/s640/positivethoughtsblog_starfishpicture.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">You can participate in The Daybook too! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Head over to <a href="http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/">The Simple Woman's Daybook</a> and join in today!</span></div></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-52391985746118186282010-11-14T18:16:00.000-05:002010-11-14T18:16:27.381-05:00Love, Loss, and Saying Goodbye<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/S1jqjPdaxBI/AAAAAAAAAEs/o1XYsYbynkE/s1600/sunsetonjhutchinsonisland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/S1jqjPdaxBI/AAAAAAAAAEs/o1XYsYbynkE/s400/sunsetonjhutchinsonisland.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Life is so fragile. Most of the time, we go through our day to day life in a rush, never slowing down to just be. Just enjoy this thing called life. Losing someone you love really makes you slow down and remember what is important in the world. I try to be mindful, to be present in the moment, but too often I get bogged down in worries that just aren't important. It's times like this that remind us to be present, every moment.<br />
It's been a tough few weeks for our family. Just a few days shy of the end of October, we got the news that my grandmother's brother had advanced bone cancer. The universe works in amazing ways, and it just so happened I was already headed south for a visit. Our family has always been a close knit one, so there was no two ways about it. The minute I hit the ground in Charlotte, we headed for my grandmother's house, then drove to Florida. The first day was spent chatting and hugging, and listen to Nanny and Uncle JM talk about their childhood. We made it just in time for that blessing of a day, because that was the last day he was really able to interact with us. The rest of our visit was spent enjoying our family and just being with Uncle JM.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TOBtjYbtUBI/AAAAAAAAAvI/uAsik3gucOw/s1600/2008_0118florida080033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TOBtjYbtUBI/AAAAAAAAAvI/uAsik3gucOw/s400/2008_0118florida080033.jpg" width="293" /></a></div> I had never really been in this situation before. When my mom passed, it was sudden and I didn't have the chance to say goodbye. I was far too young to remember much of the process when my grandfather passed away. The hospice that was helping had the most beautiful, comforting pamphlet about the process. It really did help a lot. I took it to heart and, when we had to say goodbye and return to South Carolina, I made sure I helped my grandmother understand that it was OK. It was OK to cry, OK to tell him you will miss him, and OK to tell him you'll be just fine. It took us four or five trips in and out of his room...Nanny just couldn't bare to let him hear her tears, but the moments I was blessed enough to share with the two of them were beautiful. She stroked his forehead, held his hand in hers, and told him she loved him, that her world was a beautiful place because of him, and that she wanted him to give Dana (my mom) a hug for her. That was about all she could manage before she just couldn't say anymore. All the while, I could tell he could feel her there, tell he wanted to say something. I had a moment alone and I made sure to tell him what I knew he wanted to hear, but Nanny just couldn't find words for. I told him I was going to take good care of Nanny. That she was in good hands and that we'd miss him so much, but that we would be OK. I felt the peace that gave him, and being in that moment was beautiful.<br />
I returned home, and I got the call the next day that he had passed. I can't tell you how thankful I was for the moments I shared, then and through my life, with him and the rest of my family. I can't stop thinking of the wonderful times. I remember being a very young child and thinking my Uncle JM was just the tallest man I'd ever seen! I loved our visits to Florida...he would hoist me or my sister up on his mighty shoulders and we'd head out to his back yard to pick oranges until we couldn't hold them all. Later, when I was older, I saw him as the best example of a husband and father anyone could ask for. The love and tenderness he never ceased to show made him a ray of sunshine to everyone that knew him.<br />
I guess the thing I am most thankful for is that I had the chance to say goodbye. I am so thankful that life constantly reminds me to cherish ever moment I have with those I love. Though I have tears rolling down my face as I type, they are a mix of sad and happy tears. Sad because I miss him, but so happy that I had him for a little while, and that he made this world a better place just by being in it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TOBqrDmVkZI/AAAAAAAAAvE/wlXGlqbywoM/s1600/012+copy-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TOBqrDmVkZI/AAAAAAAAAvE/wlXGlqbywoM/s1600/012+copy-WEB.jpg" /></a></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-35523917651096383832010-10-31T11:00:00.002-04:002010-10-31T11:00:04.184-04:00November Desktop Freebie!!!WOW, I can not believe it's already November! Well, almost, but close enough! As this posts, I am traveling, so I hope the scheduling system throws me a bone and helps me out. This is the freebie I made for you, and I made the two popular sizes (1024x768 and 1366x768 resolutions). I hope you like it, and thank you for visiting and downloading! I hope your Halloween was amazing, and I pray your November is fabulous...talk to you soon!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.4shared.com/file/bU1rEYOH/November_Desktop_Freebie.html">Download HERE!</a></i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TMrm4GuxJxI/AAAAAAAAAvA/RgdNvs81a-Y/s1600/November2010_DesktopFreebie_WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="359" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TMrm4GuxJxI/AAAAAAAAAvA/RgdNvs81a-Y/s640/November2010_DesktopFreebie_WEB.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2481728898607585612.post-26996521536390196122010-10-25T19:03:00.000-04:002010-10-25T19:03:55.797-04:00Great News! Ooo la la!! The voting is closed, and the winners of the first Cat Portrait Contest have been announced over at <a href="http://www.fififlowers.com/">Fifi Flower's blog</a>...and my baby girl was one of the winners! I was so excited I could hardly contain myself! I just love the whimsical style Fifi has, and I couldn't wait to see the portrait of my sweet Pumpkin. Well, the winning kitties' portraits are all posted on Fifi's blog, and I wanted to share them with you!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TMYJ1Os98EI/AAAAAAAAAu8/f7FwkeSvjTo/s1600/CatContestWinners+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="505" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gFpPEq2XtSk/TMYJ1Os98EI/AAAAAAAAAu8/f7FwkeSvjTo/s640/CatContestWinners+copy.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Aren't they fabulous? Of course, the one on the left is my Pumpkin! I just love these paintings and I can't wait to see the note cards when they get here. I smell a frame shopping expedition coming soon!<br />
Thanks to Fifi for having such a fun contest, and congratulations to the other three fabulous felines. Make sure you visit Fifi at her <a href="http://www.fififlowers.com/">website</a> and explore <a href="http://fififlowersdesign.blogspot.com/">her galleries</a>, she has so many wonderful paintings for sale! You can also see the before and after process of the cat portraits <a href="http://www.fififlowers.com/2010/10/andddd-4-winning-kitty-cats-are.html">here</a>. Have fun <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/fififlowers">shopping at her Etsy Shop</a> too! It's simply fabulous!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07455084448278007236noreply@blogger.com3