Hi everyone,
I don't have a whole lot to say today.
I just wanted to pass along a link. I hope you all will take the time to watch it and then consider becoming a supporter. You don't have to give millions of dollars. All you have to do is spread awareness and be a champion for these children.
Carol of the Bells
This is why I moved to Memphis. They are why I get up and come to work everyday.
"No child should die in the dawn of life" Danny Thomas.
Pass the message along. You never know who may see it.
Love you,
Lindsy
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
Love, Change, and Sacrifice
Sometimes it isn't the big, life altering, major, things that can show you are actually in love. Sometimes it is the tiny battles that you concede, the witty comebacks you swallow, and the traditions you alter that show you are willing to be a "we".
In the past 6 months I have come to realize that, although I did make a HUGE, life changing, major, sacrifice by moving 5+ hours away from my family, it is the little things that show me I've changed.
Packing up my life and moving to Memphis was, in part, about being near RJ but it was also about the opportunity to work where I do. It was a tough decision, but it wasn't selfless by any means. I see the "we" in the sometimes forgotten little things that inhabit our every day lives.
It's the fact that this year I will have a REAL Christmas tree in my home. I have never, and never wanted or planned to have anything other than beautiful plastic. RJ had never, and never wanted or planned to have anything other than pollen laden, fire causing, straight from nature, pine. Thus, I conceded and I am giving the real thing a try, against my mother's wishes. Hopefully we won't die in a tragic house fire.
In the past 6 months I have come to realize that, although I did make a HUGE, life changing, major, sacrifice by moving 5+ hours away from my family, it is the little things that show me I've changed.
Packing up my life and moving to Memphis was, in part, about being near RJ but it was also about the opportunity to work where I do. It was a tough decision, but it wasn't selfless by any means. I see the "we" in the sometimes forgotten little things that inhabit our every day lives.
It's the fact that this year I will have a REAL Christmas tree in my home. I have never, and never wanted or planned to have anything other than beautiful plastic. RJ had never, and never wanted or planned to have anything other than pollen laden, fire causing, straight from nature, pine. Thus, I conceded and I am giving the real thing a try, against my mother's wishes. Hopefully we won't die in a tragic house fire.
The second reason that I know I love RJ is because I made his very favorite meal for dinner last week. Chicken and Dumplings. To some this may not seem like a sacrifice or a big deal at all, but they do not know my history with this food. Once upon a time when I was about 12 years old my mom made Chicken and Dumplings for dinner and they were good, delicious actually. However, that night I was more sick than I have ever been in my life. Although I cannot be sure it was the dumplings that made me this sick, after that night spent in pain on the bathroom floor, I vowed to NEVER eat them again. So when he begged and got his grandma's recipe I very reluctantly agreed to make but not eat them. Then I tried just a little bit of the broth, and then just a piece of the chicken, and then just one dumpling, and then a whole bowl. They were amazing and I did not get sick. If it had not been for RJ and giving in to HIS wants I would have missed out on this comforting and delicious food for the rest of my life.
Last but not least, I have somewhat altered my sassy personality. I think we all know that my lack of care for what people think and extreme love of snarkasm is not always well received. The first time I saw the honestly hurt look in his eye after, what I thought, was an awesome remark I realized that I had to the power to hit the buttons no one else could. Having this power comes with the responsibility to not use it, no matter how funny it may be.
There are a million little things that make up the person we are and I am not saying that to be in love is to completely lose yourself to the other person. What I am saying is that sometimes it takes love to point out and help improve the things about you that you need to change regardless. For me it is giving up a little control, realizing that my way is not the only right way, being OK with change and spontaneity, and having ever lasting patience and tolerance.
The best lesson I ever learned about relationships is to spend each day loving and making the other person happy and to find someone who does the same. In our relationship if each of us put the other before ourselves we will surely live a blessed life.
Here's to the little things.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Scratch that
I don't know how my life can sometimes be so boring and hectic at the same time, but it is.
That being said, I am not the greatest at remembering to blog about the things that I mean to, and have the best intentions to, so I give up.
Not on the blogging world as a whole, but on set deadlined topics.
You get what you get when you get it. AND YOU'LL JUST HAVE TO LIKE IT!
That being said, I am not the greatest at remembering to blog about the things that I mean to, and have the best intentions to, so I give up.
Not on the blogging world as a whole, but on set deadlined topics.
You get what you get when you get it. AND YOU'LL JUST HAVE TO LIKE IT!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Comfort Without the Calories
I think I have probably bored you all to death with my cheerful optimism lately, but I AM happy.
If I had to pick one problem that comes with being happy it is that you also start to get a little too comfortable. I have seen it happen all too many times, same scenario different friend or acquaintence. Let me break the equation down for you: happy relationship= fatty foods=FAT newlywed/girlfriend or boyfriend.
It's only natural to want to lavish your best(read: worst for you) creations on your significant other and pair that with dinner date nights and popcorn at the movies and your normal 1,500-2,000 calorie diet just exploded. Couple this "new love cooking" style with the desire to do nothing but cuddle in your new house and the pounds basically jump onto your body. I'm not saying that I have merely seen this, I admit I have been there too.
However, I have also learned how to get the same comfort without the calories. You don't have to add sour cream, cream soup, shredded cheese, butter, mayo or any other Paula Dean endorsed food to every meal. It can taste just as good if you make an effort to find alternatives and expand your culinary point of view.
I LOVE to cook. I would cook even if no one was there to eat it. Even after a long day I still go home and make dinner, not because I feel obligated, but because I honestly enjoy it. Therefore, I wanted a way to document and share my healthier versions of classic comforting meals.
This week's menu: They are easy!
Monday: Spaghetti and Meatballs with wedge salad
Tuesday: Salmon Croquettes with roasted ranch potatoes and 7-layer salad
Wednesday: Roast Chicken with fried green beans and praline sweet potato
Thursday: Chicken salad and zuchhini cakes
Friday: Homemade calzones
Saturday: Buffalo wings with bleu cheese dipping sauce
As you can see, we are not restricted to celery and water in our home. We love food and we like to eat, but even the seemingly calorie laden dishes are tricksters.
Stay tuned for the recipes!
If I had to pick one problem that comes with being happy it is that you also start to get a little too comfortable. I have seen it happen all too many times, same scenario different friend or acquaintence. Let me break the equation down for you: happy relationship= fatty foods=FAT newlywed/girlfriend or boyfriend.
It's only natural to want to lavish your best(read: worst for you) creations on your significant other and pair that with dinner date nights and popcorn at the movies and your normal 1,500-2,000 calorie diet just exploded. Couple this "new love cooking" style with the desire to do nothing but cuddle in your new house and the pounds basically jump onto your body. I'm not saying that I have merely seen this, I admit I have been there too.
However, I have also learned how to get the same comfort without the calories. You don't have to add sour cream, cream soup, shredded cheese, butter, mayo or any other Paula Dean endorsed food to every meal. It can taste just as good if you make an effort to find alternatives and expand your culinary point of view.
I LOVE to cook. I would cook even if no one was there to eat it. Even after a long day I still go home and make dinner, not because I feel obligated, but because I honestly enjoy it. Therefore, I wanted a way to document and share my healthier versions of classic comforting meals.
This week's menu: They are easy!
Monday: Spaghetti and Meatballs with wedge salad
Tuesday: Salmon Croquettes with roasted ranch potatoes and 7-layer salad
Wednesday: Roast Chicken with fried green beans and praline sweet potato
Thursday: Chicken salad and zuchhini cakes
Friday: Homemade calzones
Saturday: Buffalo wings with bleu cheese dipping sauce
As you can see, we are not restricted to celery and water in our home. We love food and we like to eat, but even the seemingly calorie laden dishes are tricksters.
Stay tuned for the recipes!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
On the wagon.
So, I'm not much of a bandwagon person. In fact, I am pretty much the opposite. If I notice that something is becoming increasingly popular I tend to stray from joining in. Thus was the reason I intentionally did not join in on the "things I am thankful for" daily posts on Facebook or my blog. I don't discredit the idea, in fact I think it is an amazing way for people to step back and actually find the things that are good in their lives instead of always dwelling on the negative.
Bringing me to my point...I give in, on this one. I suppose if you truly believe in what you are doing it shouldn't and doesn't matter if the whole world (or no one else) is doing it. Instead of making a daily list, I promise to post 10 things every 10 days 3 times in November.
Ten Thanks God Things
1. Thank you for my life. In the most true sense, I am thankful to be alive. I am thankful that I have lived 26 years on this Earth. I am reminded daily that not every child gets to grow up to experience all other things that one could be thankful for, but I have.
2. Thank you for my family. My mother and father chose to bring me into this world and then chose to raise me to be the person I am today. I have been blessed with 3 built-in best friends as siblings and I love each one with every fiber of my body and soul. I am thankful for the unconditional love that I receive daily from all of them.
3. Thank you for my education. I am blessed with knowledge and that knowledge has led me down the path that I am meant to be.
4. Thank you for love. I was never one to really dream about Prince Charming. Don't get me wrong, I dreamed about the perfect life as a wife and mother, but never about the man in particular. Never-the-less, I have been given a man that most of the time I don't deserve. I am admittedly difficult but he loves me anyway and always tries his best to give me what I want and make me happy. His love makes me a better person.
5. Thank you for giving me friends who get me. Looking back I cannot imagine my life without them in it. I did not know as I went through all of grade school and high school that there were actually REAL friends waiting for me in college, but I am eternally grateful.
6. Thank you for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. I am amazed daily that this place exists and that I am a part of it. For anyone operating on the belief that it is just another really great charity, I BEG you to read the story of its founding, read the stories of its patients, and then realize that it is a place that is completely unique. The dream, the vision, and the promise all began in a church, so I dare you to argue that it was not some kind of divine intervention that created the place I am lucky enough to call my professional home.
7. Just to lighten the list...Thank you for food. Food is my outlet for creativity and my means of expressing myself. It gives me pleasure to be able to create something that brings others joy.
8. Thank you for making me stubborn. As funny as it is I love that I am stubborn. Some may view it as difficult, but I am who I am and sometimes I want what I want. This trait may get me in trouble in some situations, but it has also gotten me to where I am today and today is where I am happy.
9. Thank you for my struggles and sadness. Without them I would have no reference point to feel true joy or accomplishment. The road has not been easy, I have felt real pain in my life but I have also felt real love and joy and I could not have had one without the other.
10. Thank you for giving me something greater than myself to believe in. I need that more than I let on.
So, a little introspective reflection goes a long way. I am happy to share my thoughts and blessings. It makes them real, gives credit where credit is due, and allows me to remember, not just today, but whenever I need a reminder that my life is blessed.
Bringing me to my point...I give in, on this one. I suppose if you truly believe in what you are doing it shouldn't and doesn't matter if the whole world (or no one else) is doing it. Instead of making a daily list, I promise to post 10 things every 10 days 3 times in November.
Ten Thanks God Things
1. Thank you for my life. In the most true sense, I am thankful to be alive. I am thankful that I have lived 26 years on this Earth. I am reminded daily that not every child gets to grow up to experience all other things that one could be thankful for, but I have.
2. Thank you for my family. My mother and father chose to bring me into this world and then chose to raise me to be the person I am today. I have been blessed with 3 built-in best friends as siblings and I love each one with every fiber of my body and soul. I am thankful for the unconditional love that I receive daily from all of them.
3. Thank you for my education. I am blessed with knowledge and that knowledge has led me down the path that I am meant to be.
4. Thank you for love. I was never one to really dream about Prince Charming. Don't get me wrong, I dreamed about the perfect life as a wife and mother, but never about the man in particular. Never-the-less, I have been given a man that most of the time I don't deserve. I am admittedly difficult but he loves me anyway and always tries his best to give me what I want and make me happy. His love makes me a better person.
5. Thank you for giving me friends who get me. Looking back I cannot imagine my life without them in it. I did not know as I went through all of grade school and high school that there were actually REAL friends waiting for me in college, but I am eternally grateful.
6. Thank you for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. I am amazed daily that this place exists and that I am a part of it. For anyone operating on the belief that it is just another really great charity, I BEG you to read the story of its founding, read the stories of its patients, and then realize that it is a place that is completely unique. The dream, the vision, and the promise all began in a church, so I dare you to argue that it was not some kind of divine intervention that created the place I am lucky enough to call my professional home.
7. Just to lighten the list...Thank you for food. Food is my outlet for creativity and my means of expressing myself. It gives me pleasure to be able to create something that brings others joy.
8. Thank you for making me stubborn. As funny as it is I love that I am stubborn. Some may view it as difficult, but I am who I am and sometimes I want what I want. This trait may get me in trouble in some situations, but it has also gotten me to where I am today and today is where I am happy.
9. Thank you for my struggles and sadness. Without them I would have no reference point to feel true joy or accomplishment. The road has not been easy, I have felt real pain in my life but I have also felt real love and joy and I could not have had one without the other.
10. Thank you for giving me something greater than myself to believe in. I need that more than I let on.
So, a little introspective reflection goes a long way. I am happy to share my thoughts and blessings. It makes them real, gives credit where credit is due, and allows me to remember, not just today, but whenever I need a reminder that my life is blessed.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Slacker............I know
Don't worry folks, I'm not dead in a gutter somewhere. I actually have some reasons(excuses) for having abandoned you these past few weeks.
First, I have written some posts and not published them because they need the pictures to accompany them. I have had the best of intentions to upload the pictures every night, but somehow I never actually make it so far as to plug in chord and do it. So, hopefully, I will do that soon and I can update you on all that has been going on.
Bringing me to my second "reason". I have been moving at the speed of light lately. I feel like 2 weeks have flown by and I didn't even realize it. It was my birthday, Halloween, and Bri's wedding, all while also being crazy, busy at work. So, my focus has not been on all of you and updating...sorry kids.
Keep an eye out, you may just get 3 billion posts at once.
Lots of love to you all from the not-as-pretty-as-Chattanooga western side of the state.
First, I have written some posts and not published them because they need the pictures to accompany them. I have had the best of intentions to upload the pictures every night, but somehow I never actually make it so far as to plug in chord and do it. So, hopefully, I will do that soon and I can update you on all that has been going on.
Bringing me to my second "reason". I have been moving at the speed of light lately. I feel like 2 weeks have flown by and I didn't even realize it. It was my birthday, Halloween, and Bri's wedding, all while also being crazy, busy at work. So, my focus has not been on all of you and updating...sorry kids.
Keep an eye out, you may just get 3 billion posts at once.
Lots of love to you all from the not-as-pretty-as-Chattanooga western side of the state.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Weekend Wants: Birthday Style
Come Monday I will be another year older and almost 6 months into my new life in Memphis. I don't know which shocks me more, that I will be past my mid-20s or that it has now been close to a half a year since I left Chattanooga. Crazy.
Moving on. I feel that I am a very giving person. I like to make a big deal of people's birthdays and special occasions because I love them and I want more than anything for them to feel my love and for them to feel special. In turn, I reserve the right, once a year, on my birthday, to be completely and totally selfish. I want to be a pretty pretty princess and have a day that is all about me. Sorry I'm not sorry.
Bringing me to my Weekend Wants: October 21, 2011, Birthday Style:
1. You know you are getting older when first and foremost I want my house cleaned for my birthday. I don't want to have to worry about dishes, dusting, sweeping, bathrooms, etc. I just want my house to be showcase ready so that I can relax and not feel like I need to be doing something. Except laundry, I will do that myself to avoid the fights that come with ruined clothes.
2. I don't want to have to tell the people in my life what I want to do. I spend my entire life planning. I make all the plans for trips. I make all the meal plans. I usually come up with an idea or two for date nights. Admittedly this may or may not be because I have control issues. Regardless, I don't want to have to think, I just want it done for me. I want RJ to remember the things I say in passing and plan our entire weekend with my likes and dislikes in mind. He is normally pretty great at this stuff, so let's hope he doesn't disappoint. Ideally this would include a corn maze, a bonfire, hot apple cider, lots of kisses and plenty of waiting on me.
3. I want to have a Halloween party. This possibly does not fall into this weekend, as it would actually have to take place next weekend, but whatever. I want to start getting things together and see if it is even possible to throw this party. I have more than one costume idea in mind and I would like to be able to put them to good use.
4. I want to eat cake. Lots of yummy cake. Although I can't make my mind up between cookie cake, cheesecake, carrot cake or a good ole yellow with chocolate frosting.
Happy Birthday to me!
Moving on. I feel that I am a very giving person. I like to make a big deal of people's birthdays and special occasions because I love them and I want more than anything for them to feel my love and for them to feel special. In turn, I reserve the right, once a year, on my birthday, to be completely and totally selfish. I want to be a pretty pretty princess and have a day that is all about me. Sorry I'm not sorry.
Bringing me to my Weekend Wants: October 21, 2011, Birthday Style:
1. You know you are getting older when first and foremost I want my house cleaned for my birthday. I don't want to have to worry about dishes, dusting, sweeping, bathrooms, etc. I just want my house to be showcase ready so that I can relax and not feel like I need to be doing something. Except laundry, I will do that myself to avoid the fights that come with ruined clothes.
2. I don't want to have to tell the people in my life what I want to do. I spend my entire life planning. I make all the plans for trips. I make all the meal plans. I usually come up with an idea or two for date nights. Admittedly this may or may not be because I have control issues. Regardless, I don't want to have to think, I just want it done for me. I want RJ to remember the things I say in passing and plan our entire weekend with my likes and dislikes in mind. He is normally pretty great at this stuff, so let's hope he doesn't disappoint. Ideally this would include a corn maze, a bonfire, hot apple cider, lots of kisses and plenty of waiting on me.
3. I want to have a Halloween party. This possibly does not fall into this weekend, as it would actually have to take place next weekend, but whatever. I want to start getting things together and see if it is even possible to throw this party. I have more than one costume idea in mind and I would like to be able to put them to good use.
4. I want to eat cake. Lots of yummy cake. Although I can't make my mind up between cookie cake, cheesecake, carrot cake or a good ole yellow with chocolate frosting.
Happy Birthday to me!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
All the love in my life
Just a quick post to reflect and be thankful. I rarely ever stop and dwell on the fact that I am a lucky little girl, usually I'm dwelling on all the things I need to do, didn't get done, or don't have.
This week is different. Maybe it's because I'm about to turn another year older, maybe it's because this is the first year in my life I won't be with my mommy and daddy on my birthday, or maybe it is just that my life is actually turning out to be pretty great. Regardless of the "whys", I am happy and thankful for my life and everyone in it.
I have a boyfriend who thinks I am pretty when I am definitely not, takes care of me when I am sick and whiny, and works so hard so that our future will be everything we have dreamed of. AND he washes all the dishes and mops and sweeps because he know those are the things I hate the most. I'm not the easiest person to deal with all the time, but he does it without compaint.
I have the best family in the whole wide world. My mom made it her number 1 rule our whole lives that family came first. I don't know many families that have adult children who are as close as we are still to this day. We play together, fight with each other, love together, and support each other no matter what. There are EXTREMELY few times in my life that being a lady gets thrown out the window, if you would like to see it happen you can either put my life in actual danger, or mess with one of my siblings.
My mom and dad could not have been better parents. They made sure they were at everything, they sacrificed to give us private school educations, family vacations, and more memories together than most people get in a lifetime. They taught us right from wrong but let us find our own ways in the world, not with judgement, but with guidance. They still hold us when we are sick and keep the traditions we have had since birth. We may have grown up, but we will never stop being their babies.
And friends...PLEASE. My friends are amazing. Perfect for me in every way. In case you missed how much I love them and how awesome they are, feel free to read, or re-read THIS .
Thanks God. I know I don't say it enough, but you have given me much more than I deserve.
This week is different. Maybe it's because I'm about to turn another year older, maybe it's because this is the first year in my life I won't be with my mommy and daddy on my birthday, or maybe it is just that my life is actually turning out to be pretty great. Regardless of the "whys", I am happy and thankful for my life and everyone in it.
I have a boyfriend who thinks I am pretty when I am definitely not, takes care of me when I am sick and whiny, and works so hard so that our future will be everything we have dreamed of. AND he washes all the dishes and mops and sweeps because he know those are the things I hate the most. I'm not the easiest person to deal with all the time, but he does it without compaint.
I have the best family in the whole wide world. My mom made it her number 1 rule our whole lives that family came first. I don't know many families that have adult children who are as close as we are still to this day. We play together, fight with each other, love together, and support each other no matter what. There are EXTREMELY few times in my life that being a lady gets thrown out the window, if you would like to see it happen you can either put my life in actual danger, or mess with one of my siblings.
My mom and dad could not have been better parents. They made sure they were at everything, they sacrificed to give us private school educations, family vacations, and more memories together than most people get in a lifetime. They taught us right from wrong but let us find our own ways in the world, not with judgement, but with guidance. They still hold us when we are sick and keep the traditions we have had since birth. We may have grown up, but we will never stop being their babies.
And friends...PLEASE. My friends are amazing. Perfect for me in every way. In case you missed how much I love them and how awesome they are, feel free to read, or re-read THIS .
Thanks God. I know I don't say it enough, but you have given me much more than I deserve.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Weekend Wants
Happy Happy Friday!
Sorry for missing last week, but I was in my car most of the day on my way to Chattanooga for a little birthday visit with Alex!
This Friday and weekend will be one of the few that I will actaully be in Memphis with no set plans. Next weekend is homecoming(Go MOCS), the next is my birthday, the weekend after my birthday is Halloween, and then comes Bri's wedding. So, although October is my favorite month, it is also proving to be the busiest!
Sorry for missing last week, but I was in my car most of the day on my way to Chattanooga for a little birthday visit with Alex!
This Friday and weekend will be one of the few that I will actaully be in Memphis with no set plans. Next weekend is homecoming(Go MOCS), the next is my birthday, the weekend after my birthday is Halloween, and then comes Bri's wedding. So, although October is my favorite month, it is also proving to be the busiest!
When I say I have no set plans by no means does that mean I will lounge around and do nothing...that's just boring, not relaxing. So my weekend wants for October 7, 2011 are as follow:
1) I want curtains for my kitchen windows and back door. This is for multiple reason. First, I have a very useful shelf in my laundry area where I store paper towels, cleaning products, etc; the only issue is that the shelf is in a window and these household necessities do not look very nice when you are on my patio. Second, I have 2 giant windows in front of my kitchen sink and 2 more by my table that sit with the blinds drawn all day and they are very sad and plain. I want to let some light in! My house is not very big or fancy, so natural light goes a long way in making it look more open. No clue what colors or patterns I want, I guess it will just hit me when I see it.
2) I want NEED an ottoman to complete my living room. I got the couch, got the rug, set-up the bar table, put out the new fall decor, but there is still an ugly coffee table in the middle of my room. The problem here is that the perfect ottoman is too expensive or doesn't exist. I just want a 3.5 ft sqare ottoman, not too high, sturdy, tufted, and upholstered in a fun, yet neutral fabric, or a rich leather with nail-head trim. Obvisouly I am not asking for much here!
They exist on Pinterest! They need to exist in Memphis!
3) I want and I am making RJ take me to a pumpkin patch. I have always always always wanted to go to pick my own pumpkin, and drink apple cider. It is going to be in the 80's this weekend but I am still going to pretend it feels like fall. The pumpkin's at Jone's Orchard, first discovered HERE, are only $0.39/lb and they have blue, cinderella, and traditional. AH! I'm so excited. I want a million to put all over my front porch, my fireplace hearth, and my patio!
4) As I mentioned all of the events coming up this month I would like to throw away all my clothes and restock my closet from scratch. Yea. I know. Completely unrealistic. BUT wouldn't it be amazing to have unlimited funds to restyle yourself how you are now instead of making what you've bought over the years fit your new life. I would buy more seperates and structured dresses. Maybe even some pants. What would you get?
Ok so! Thus is my life for this weekend! Maybe I'll even post pictures of my pumpkins and house if I complete my tasks....
Friday, September 23, 2011
What's that you said?
Today is the first day of fall!!!
This has turned my day from ho hum to amazing. Fall is by far my very favorite time of year and the last couple years it seems we have been skipping it as longer summers ran straight into cold winters. However, this year already has promise. I woke up this morning to take my little babies outside only to find it not cool, but a little chilly and I just stood on my patio and smiled like an idiot (in nothing but an oversized t-shirt mind you).
Last weekend I had grand plans to get fall started early but let's be honest, it didn't happen. Instead we went to hang out on Tiger Lane and tailgate for the U of M football game that the Tigers actually won, they're not so good...
This has turned my day from ho hum to amazing. Fall is by far my very favorite time of year and the last couple years it seems we have been skipping it as longer summers ran straight into cold winters. However, this year already has promise. I woke up this morning to take my little babies outside only to find it not cool, but a little chilly and I just stood on my patio and smiled like an idiot (in nothing but an oversized t-shirt mind you).
Last weekend I had grand plans to get fall started early but let's be honest, it didn't happen. Instead we went to hang out on Tiger Lane and tailgate for the U of M football game that the Tigers actually won, they're not so good...
I did make the Whiskey Sour Slushies to share and let's just say the gallon pitcher was empty, I highly recommend them. Of course I added a little more whiskey than the recipe called for.
I also made what I believe will become a new favorite found on Pinterest. It was cheesy bacon ranch pull apart bread and it was phenomenal, seriously so so so so good, easy and adaptable to as many different flavors as you can dream up.
Here's the method:
- Buy large round loaf of UNSLICED bread. You can use sourdough, country bread, whatever you like.
- Slice about 1 in thick slices almost through, but leave about 1/2 to 1 inch unsliced at the base. Rotate 90 degrees and repeat so that you now have little cube looking pieces.
Here's some filler ideas:
- Chicken, bacon, ranch: Melt 1 stick butter and dissolve 1 packet dry ranch seasoning. Pour over sliced loaf, top with crumbled bacon and cheddar cheese, making sure to push down into the slices.
- Pizza: Melt 1 stick butter and dissolve 1 packet Italian seasoning mix (light version use Italian dressing) pour over sliced loaf, top with mozzarella and chopped pepperoni. Side of marinara for dipping.
- Buffalo Chicken: Mix 1/2 stick melted butter and 1/2 c Frank Buffalo Sauce. Pour over sliced loaf, top with shredded chicken and cheese of your choice. Serve with Bleu Cheese or Ranch dipping sauce.
- Cinnamon Bun: Mix 1 stick melted butter with cinnamon and sugar, chopped pecans optional. Pour over sliced loaf. Top with frosting drizzle. Serve with extra frosting for dipping.
- Anything that would be good on a sandwich. Hot ham and cheese with Dijon, taco, etc.
Baking Instruction: Preheat oven to 375, bake uncovered until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
Best "Bring Whatever" ever.
I was not very productive last weekend but RJ doesn't work much this weekend so hopefully it will be a fun-filled, perfect weather, couple of days!
What are your plans?
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Handy little household helpers
I would HAPPILY spend my entire day keeping house, cooking meals, and raising children; however, that is not my current reality. So to keep me sane and save me precious time and energy I employ a few little tricks to make me seem like a domestic goddess even if it is not a full-time occupation. Maybe they can help others of you that are in my same boat!
Probably my very favorite multitasker is the laundry basket. So much in fact that they were on my Christmas list last year and my brother bought me three. Laundry baskets are great for their intended purpose of gathering, sorting and carrying clothes; but they also have become household helpers in numerous other ways.
I keep a laundry basket in my car at all times. This may sounds crazy but you have no idea how fabulous an idea this is. Instead of making multiple trips from car to house with armfuls of groceries, I instead load the bags into the basket and make one, safe and stable trip from car to kitchen to fridge. No more dropping things along the way or getting injured from overloading your arms in the attempt to get them all inside at once. You have all done it, don't lie.
I also use my laundry basket as a weekend travel bag. I know I'm not alone on this one because a weekend visitor I had, not too long ago, showed up not with a duffel bag, but a basket. This is smart if you are traveling to a friends house, in your own car, where you will not be judged. A basket allows for more space to pack without any shoving or squishing and also makes it a whole lot easier to find stuff once you have reached your destination.
I love my laundry baskets. They are amazingly useful things. Enough on that.
I also go through a ridiculous amount of Swiffers. Seriously, I buy them in bulk at Sam's. I love them and I use them for everything and not always on the actual broom thingy. The pick up everything, including the carpet of dog hair that tends to cover everything in my home. I dust counter tops, electronics, car dashboards, obviously floors, you name it and I swiffer it. Attached to handle they are also amazing at getting cobwebs out of corners and dusting the tops of fan blades. If you want to pick up dust and dirt from a surface use a swiffer in conjunction with pledge.
Another little multi-tasker are dryer sheets. Fabulous for laundry to keep static from taking over your wardrobe but also fabulous for inconspicuously masking odors or freshen spaces.
I tuck dryer sheets on the under side of my vents so that all the air flowing through takes on the wonderful fresh laundry scent. I also throw a few in all of my drawers so my lesser worn clothes never get musky. If you are like me and have a few pairs of shoes you have worn to death and that don;t smell their freshest...pop a dryer sheet in each one while you aren't wearing them to help deodorize.
Confession: The strangest thing I have used dryer sheets for is freshening my pet. Yep, you heard me, sweet little Gus got rubbed with a dryer sheet when I didn't have time to give him a bath before company came over...AND IT WORKED. Not as well as a bath, but in a pinch it took away the puppy smell for a little while.
Judge if you will, we all do what we have to do in the time we have. Using some of these things save me time and hassle, however crazy they may sound. Try them and you'll be converted.
Happy Wednesday and here's to the housewives!
Probably my very favorite multitasker is the laundry basket. So much in fact that they were on my Christmas list last year and my brother bought me three. Laundry baskets are great for their intended purpose of gathering, sorting and carrying clothes; but they also have become household helpers in numerous other ways.
I keep a laundry basket in my car at all times. This may sounds crazy but you have no idea how fabulous an idea this is. Instead of making multiple trips from car to house with armfuls of groceries, I instead load the bags into the basket and make one, safe and stable trip from car to kitchen to fridge. No more dropping things along the way or getting injured from overloading your arms in the attempt to get them all inside at once. You have all done it, don't lie.
I also use my laundry basket as a weekend travel bag. I know I'm not alone on this one because a weekend visitor I had, not too long ago, showed up not with a duffel bag, but a basket. This is smart if you are traveling to a friends house, in your own car, where you will not be judged. A basket allows for more space to pack without any shoving or squishing and also makes it a whole lot easier to find stuff once you have reached your destination.
I love my laundry baskets. They are amazingly useful things. Enough on that.
I also go through a ridiculous amount of Swiffers. Seriously, I buy them in bulk at Sam's. I love them and I use them for everything and not always on the actual broom thingy. The pick up everything, including the carpet of dog hair that tends to cover everything in my home. I dust counter tops, electronics, car dashboards, obviously floors, you name it and I swiffer it. Attached to handle they are also amazing at getting cobwebs out of corners and dusting the tops of fan blades. If you want to pick up dust and dirt from a surface use a swiffer in conjunction with pledge.
Another little multi-tasker are dryer sheets. Fabulous for laundry to keep static from taking over your wardrobe but also fabulous for inconspicuously masking odors or freshen spaces.
I tuck dryer sheets on the under side of my vents so that all the air flowing through takes on the wonderful fresh laundry scent. I also throw a few in all of my drawers so my lesser worn clothes never get musky. If you are like me and have a few pairs of shoes you have worn to death and that don;t smell their freshest...pop a dryer sheet in each one while you aren't wearing them to help deodorize.
Confession: The strangest thing I have used dryer sheets for is freshening my pet. Yep, you heard me, sweet little Gus got rubbed with a dryer sheet when I didn't have time to give him a bath before company came over...AND IT WORKED. Not as well as a bath, but in a pinch it took away the puppy smell for a little while.
Judge if you will, we all do what we have to do in the time we have. Using some of these things save me time and hassle, however crazy they may sound. Try them and you'll be converted.
Happy Wednesday and here's to the housewives!
Friday, September 16, 2011
Weekend Wants
Well kiddos, another week has come and gone here is Memphis and thankgoodnesstosay it has been a quiet one.
I don't know about everywhere else in the south, but we have FINALLY gotten some cooler weather and I am absolutely loving it. FALL is the BEST season after all.
This weekend my wants are stemming from the weather, even if it is 75 not 50 degrees I am still ecstatic to be out of the 100's and 90's.
1. I want to pull my down comforter out of storage and have it dry cleaned. If you do not have a down comforter you are missing out in two separate arenas. First, you are missing out on the extreme cuddle factor a down comforter can bring to your bed. When the mornings are cool and you are cuddled up in a down comforter's squishy, cocoony glory the snooze button gets a whole lot of action. Secondly, you are missing out on the nightmare that it is to clean them... They are HUGE, you can't fit them in a normal washing machine and then if you do take them to an industrial size washer at the laundromat, you CANNOT, under any circumstances, put them in a dryer. You have to find somewhere to drape it to dry for literally days and every 5 hours or so you have to rotate it so that your blanket retains it fluffy feathers. Therefore, I will pay the money to miss the hassle.
And then, I will wash my softest sheets with extra fabric softener put on my fresh comforter and hole up in bed for an afternoon nap, read, or some trashy reality TV. Heaven.
2. I want a fire. We bought a fire pit back in the dog days of summer, but have not actually used it. Standing next to a roaring flame when it is still over 100 degrees at 10:00 pm is not my idea of fun.
This weekend nights will be cool enough to where a fire would feel nice along with some yummy drinks and good company to share an evening with. Bringing me to 3.
3. What would be better for the in-between season than these. A big pitcher of whiskey sour slushies. Cooling and warming all at the same time. FYI...if you are not the biggest fan of whiskey, you can use amaretto.
I don't know about everywhere else in the south, but we have FINALLY gotten some cooler weather and I am absolutely loving it. FALL is the BEST season after all.
This weekend my wants are stemming from the weather, even if it is 75 not 50 degrees I am still ecstatic to be out of the 100's and 90's.
1. I want to pull my down comforter out of storage and have it dry cleaned. If you do not have a down comforter you are missing out in two separate arenas. First, you are missing out on the extreme cuddle factor a down comforter can bring to your bed. When the mornings are cool and you are cuddled up in a down comforter's squishy, cocoony glory the snooze button gets a whole lot of action. Secondly, you are missing out on the nightmare that it is to clean them... They are HUGE, you can't fit them in a normal washing machine and then if you do take them to an industrial size washer at the laundromat, you CANNOT, under any circumstances, put them in a dryer. You have to find somewhere to drape it to dry for literally days and every 5 hours or so you have to rotate it so that your blanket retains it fluffy feathers. Therefore, I will pay the money to miss the hassle.
And then, I will wash my softest sheets with extra fabric softener put on my fresh comforter and hole up in bed for an afternoon nap, read, or some trashy reality TV. Heaven.
2. I want a fire. We bought a fire pit back in the dog days of summer, but have not actually used it. Standing next to a roaring flame when it is still over 100 degrees at 10:00 pm is not my idea of fun.
This weekend nights will be cool enough to where a fire would feel nice along with some yummy drinks and good company to share an evening with. Bringing me to 3.
3. What would be better for the in-between season than these. A big pitcher of whiskey sour slushies. Cooling and warming all at the same time. FYI...if you are not the biggest fan of whiskey, you can use amaretto.
Whiskey Sour Slush
- 1 (12 oz.) can frozen lemonade concentrate, undiluted
- 1 (16 oz.) frozen orange juice, undiluted
- 1/2 c. lemon juice
- 1 1/2 c. bourbon
- 2 liter bottle Seven Up
Mix well. Freeze. Then serve.
4. I want to Fall-ize my house. On the list: fall scented candles, some little pumpkins or gourds to decorate around the house, some potted plants for the front porch, wreath making materials, and this throw from Ikea.
Oh, and God to make the weather stay cool and even get a little cooler. That would be awesome.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Weekend Wants
So...Last weekend didn't work out.
Let's try this again.
1-5. I want every single person reading this to say a quick prayer and send all your love to 2 of my very very very best friends. Austin and Rikki. They are hanging out in Nashville at Vanderbilt waiting to get better.
That is it.
I just want my friends to be happy and healthy.
Let's try this again.
1-5. I want every single person reading this to say a quick prayer and send all your love to 2 of my very very very best friends. Austin and Rikki. They are hanging out in Nashville at Vanderbilt waiting to get better.
That is it.
I just want my friends to be happy and healthy.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Making time for me, Making time for us, and Making time for dinner
Every now and then something happens in life that makes you take a step back and prioritize. What is important? Who is important? Am I actually making time for these people and things amid the crazy clutter that runs my life?
Although I try, sometimes I allow the clutter to take precedence while pushing all of the things that matter to the back burner and it takes something drastic to snap me back to where I need to be. This weekend I got a wake-up call and my Pollyanna complex found the silver lining in what otherwise was a pretty horrible weekend. What did I learn you ask? MAKE TIME.
Lesson number one that I have to learn over and over again: Put myself first every now and then. This is difficult since I am the 2nd of 4 kids and also a habitual people pleaser. I take care of anyone and everyone, then I feel guilty when someone puts me first and even guiltier asking for what I want. I am learning that my indecisiveness not the inability to decide, but rather it is complacency and agreeableness. I know what I would prefer in any given situation(for the most part), I would just rather give in or not speak up than hurt someone's feelings.
So... I am making myself a priority. What I want, What I think, What I need. I need rest. I need to listen to my body more. I want to be waited on hand and foot and feel special every once and awhile. I am lucky, I have someone in my life who wants to do these things for me, I just get in my own way and won't allow it. This is going to be a slow transition, but hopefully one that will make me healthier, happier, and a better person.
The second thing that I have come to understand is that relationships, of all kinds, are not magically perfect; they require real time, effort, and work to make them what you want them to be. This is true with family, friendships, and romantic relationships; the more you put in, the more you get out.
As much as I can say that there is always something more pressing going on in my life, until I take the time to nurture these relationships they are not going to grow. Phone calls, text messages, and emails are all I have to communicate with my loved ones now that we're far apart, but these can be powerful things when used properly. Little things make big impacts and are how you can show people you truly care. My relationships are what make me who I am and they are worth fighting to keep.
Disclaimer: I am not a licensed couples counselor, this is solely my perspective. As for romantic relationships the biggest hurdle that we are overcoming is getting over the notion that every day is a walk in the park full of rainbows and butterflies. We have amazing days, mundane days, and we have not so great days, but this is what having a life together is and a LIFETIME is what I'm planning for. However, making time to focus solely on each other is key to getting us through the rough patches. Bringing me to the third topic in the title line...
Making time for dinner. The dinner table used to be the meeting spot, the time when you put aside all other distractions and focused completely on those around you. The TV, cell phone, computer, even school work took a back seat once the food hit the table. All your problems seem magically lighter after you share them with someone else and talk through everything you have been thinking and holding in all day.
For RJ and me dinner is the one constant in our increasingly crazy lives. Even if we have to wait until 10:15 at night when he gets home, we have dinner, together, at the table, no distractions. It is the time when we can really talk. Talk about our days, our frustrations, our accomplishments, everything. The dinners aren't always fancy but they are normally home cooked and shared with just the two of us. Even when we are not so happy with each other, 30-45 minutes of uninterrupted time will usually heal all hurts.
I encourage you all to institute "Dinner Time" back into your everyday. It could be as simple as a sandwich, but taking the time to invest in your personal life will yield amazing returns. Tonight we are taking advantage of the weather and having dinner on the porch with a bottle of wine.
There will always be laundry to do, re-runs to watch, and errands to run, that I can guarantee. What is not guaranteed is the time you have to make yourself truly happy.
Although I try, sometimes I allow the clutter to take precedence while pushing all of the things that matter to the back burner and it takes something drastic to snap me back to where I need to be. This weekend I got a wake-up call and my Pollyanna complex found the silver lining in what otherwise was a pretty horrible weekend. What did I learn you ask? MAKE TIME.
Lesson number one that I have to learn over and over again: Put myself first every now and then. This is difficult since I am the 2nd of 4 kids and also a habitual people pleaser. I take care of anyone and everyone, then I feel guilty when someone puts me first and even guiltier asking for what I want. I am learning that my indecisiveness not the inability to decide, but rather it is complacency and agreeableness. I know what I would prefer in any given situation(for the most part), I would just rather give in or not speak up than hurt someone's feelings.
So... I am making myself a priority. What I want, What I think, What I need. I need rest. I need to listen to my body more. I want to be waited on hand and foot and feel special every once and awhile. I am lucky, I have someone in my life who wants to do these things for me, I just get in my own way and won't allow it. This is going to be a slow transition, but hopefully one that will make me healthier, happier, and a better person.
The second thing that I have come to understand is that relationships, of all kinds, are not magically perfect; they require real time, effort, and work to make them what you want them to be. This is true with family, friendships, and romantic relationships; the more you put in, the more you get out.
As much as I can say that there is always something more pressing going on in my life, until I take the time to nurture these relationships they are not going to grow. Phone calls, text messages, and emails are all I have to communicate with my loved ones now that we're far apart, but these can be powerful things when used properly. Little things make big impacts and are how you can show people you truly care. My relationships are what make me who I am and they are worth fighting to keep.
Disclaimer: I am not a licensed couples counselor, this is solely my perspective. As for romantic relationships the biggest hurdle that we are overcoming is getting over the notion that every day is a walk in the park full of rainbows and butterflies. We have amazing days, mundane days, and we have not so great days, but this is what having a life together is and a LIFETIME is what I'm planning for. However, making time to focus solely on each other is key to getting us through the rough patches. Bringing me to the third topic in the title line...
Making time for dinner. The dinner table used to be the meeting spot, the time when you put aside all other distractions and focused completely on those around you. The TV, cell phone, computer, even school work took a back seat once the food hit the table. All your problems seem magically lighter after you share them with someone else and talk through everything you have been thinking and holding in all day.
For RJ and me dinner is the one constant in our increasingly crazy lives. Even if we have to wait until 10:15 at night when he gets home, we have dinner, together, at the table, no distractions. It is the time when we can really talk. Talk about our days, our frustrations, our accomplishments, everything. The dinners aren't always fancy but they are normally home cooked and shared with just the two of us. Even when we are not so happy with each other, 30-45 minutes of uninterrupted time will usually heal all hurts.
I encourage you all to institute "Dinner Time" back into your everyday. It could be as simple as a sandwich, but taking the time to invest in your personal life will yield amazing returns. Tonight we are taking advantage of the weather and having dinner on the porch with a bottle of wine.
There will always be laundry to do, re-runs to watch, and errands to run, that I can guarantee. What is not guaranteed is the time you have to make yourself truly happy.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Weekend Wants
So, here is my first attempt at starting a regular Friday post.
My Weekend Wants will hopefully chronicle 4 things I want to do, wear, buy, or make over the course of my weekend. Lucky for me, the first post falls on the eve of a three day weekend giving me ample time to complete my list.
1. I am ecstatic to wear some of my favorite white dresses before it turns to autumn and they are no longer relevant.
How cute would this be paired with my tan cowboy boots.
My Weekend Wants will hopefully chronicle 4 things I want to do, wear, buy, or make over the course of my weekend. Lucky for me, the first post falls on the eve of a three day weekend giving me ample time to complete my list.
1. I am ecstatic to wear some of my favorite white dresses before it turns to autumn and they are no longer relevant.
Or this...I will need to find a colorful blazer.
2. I WILL be making some Oreo Truffles, Peanut butter truffles, and spinach and artichoke dip in order to satisfy the requests of my weekend visitors.
Spinach & Artichoke dip:
1 box frozen CHOPPED(not cut-leaf) spinach, thawed and drained
1 jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
1 block cream cheese, softened
1 C crumbled feta, more if you love feta like we do
1 C shredded mozzarella
8oz sour cream
salt, pepper, garlic to taste.
Combine spinach, cream cheese, cheeses, and sour cream in large mixing bowl. Once well combined mix in artichoke hearts, salt, pepper, garlic. If you prefer a thinner dippier consistency you may want to add more sour cream. Transfer to a baking dish and bake in the oven at 400 for at least 20 min or until it is bubbly and hot throughout.
In a pinch, you can microwave until the dip is hot and smooth.
Serve with chips and enjoy!
3. My nails have been through hell the past week or 2 with the moving of furniture and cleaning of my house, etc. Therefore, I think that they and I need a little TLC. While I normally prefer subtle and semi-neutral colors on my nails, I feel this falls into the realm of work appropriate fabulous. Manicures this weekend are a must.
4. The last and most important thing that I want to do this weekend is enjoy my time with our very best friends and actually show them around my new city.
No tourists spots if I can help it, just the things that I have actually come to love about Memphis that you cannot find anywhere else.
Woo. Friday!
Monday, August 29, 2011
It's a illness really
This weekend I have finally accepted the fact that I am OLD.
OK, not geriatric in a nursing home quite yet, but definitely not 21 and ready to party. The symptoms had been showing themselves more and more and then this weekend solidified the diagnosis.
So in the spirit of another famous doctor, Jeff Foxworthy...
You might be getting old if:
Also, please feel free to add any symptoms you yourself have felt so that others may benefit and self diagnose.
Separate note: I LOVE MY NEW COUCH and it would love visitors!
OK, not geriatric in a nursing home quite yet, but definitely not 21 and ready to party. The symptoms had been showing themselves more and more and then this weekend solidified the diagnosis.
So in the spirit of another famous doctor, Jeff Foxworthy...
You might be getting old if:
- Instead of getting invited to keg parties, your invitation list is full of wedding and baby showers.
- You have come full circle and have an early bed time and also need your afternoon nap
- You get really excited about a couch, and appliances, and anything you once could have cared less about
- The kids you used to babysit are now in college and can legally drink
- Sleeping in is now considered 9:00
- Staying out past midnight is crazy and you pay dearly for it the next day
- A bottle of wine will get you hammered, no longer a bottle of liquor, that would kill you
- You hear your mother's voice come out of your mouth every now and then
- A trip to the grocery store wears you out and seems to be the most frequent shopping trip you make
- You clean out your closet and realize that most of it is too short for you to actually wear anymore
Also, please feel free to add any symptoms you yourself have felt so that others may benefit and self diagnose.
Separate note: I LOVE MY NEW COUCH and it would love visitors!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Making this little house a home (and city for that matter)
So, for those of you who have been keeping up, although it is scary and crazy to admit, I have been in Memphis for 3 WHOLE MONTHS!
Where has the time gone? It doesn't seem like it could have possibly been almost 100 days since I left my sweet Chattanooga... I would love to report that I am completely settled in, know my way around everywhere and could not love this city more, but that would be a lie.
The truth of the matter is:
1. My house IS coming together, but slowly. This girl is t-i-r-e-d when she gets home from work, and although I have a million ideas and things on my to-do list, finding the energy is a little more difficult. Not to mention, my ever-loving and patient boyfriend has been working like a mad man and goes back to school on Monday (this does not bode well for my list of things I can't do because I can't use tools). However, we are picking out our new couch this weekend and have narrowed down the paint colors to a few finalists. That's progress right, at least theoretically since none of it has actually happened.
2. I have no idea where I am or how to get anywhere I want to go with a few exceptions. I can get to work, Kroger, and now TJ Maxx and Fresh Market. Maybe not the whole city, but I'm making some progress and for other stuff that is why God created the GPS. Let's be honest, it isn't like a I fully knew my way around Chatt and I lived there for 24 years. My goal is to knock down the amount I call RJ crying because I am lost to once a week, and I'm getting close!
3. In having conversations with other Memphis transplants I have come to the realization that you don't really LOVE this city, it grows on you over time. I am enjoying the company of the people I work with but I am still struggling for some outside socialization. This past weekend fate stepped in and I bumped into Cat, a friend from college, out of the blue. Being one of the nicest people in the world she followed up that night and invited me to church with her the next day. I forced myself to step out of my comfort zone, I went and it was actually pretty amazing. The service was different than what I was used to, but I really enjoyed it. The people were all in my age group and so nice and welcoming that I believe I will drag RJ with me this Sunday to see what he thinks!
So, three months in I feel like a bit of a failure but I am also learning to cut myself a little bit of slack every now and then. I miss my family and friends every day but I know that if I am going to have any shot of real happiness here that I have to actually put forth the effort to make it happen. As silly as it is, I think that part of me is still holding onto the notion that I can't make friends because I already HAVE friends and I don't want anyone to replace them. RJ keeps encouraging me to do new things and I guess it is time I took his advice.
Well Girl Scouts, let's hope you're right because my mission is to make new friends, but keep the old...
Where has the time gone? It doesn't seem like it could have possibly been almost 100 days since I left my sweet Chattanooga... I would love to report that I am completely settled in, know my way around everywhere and could not love this city more, but that would be a lie.
The truth of the matter is:
1. My house IS coming together, but slowly. This girl is t-i-r-e-d when she gets home from work, and although I have a million ideas and things on my to-do list, finding the energy is a little more difficult. Not to mention, my ever-loving and patient boyfriend has been working like a mad man and goes back to school on Monday (this does not bode well for my list of things I can't do because I can't use tools). However, we are picking out our new couch this weekend and have narrowed down the paint colors to a few finalists. That's progress right, at least theoretically since none of it has actually happened.
2. I have no idea where I am or how to get anywhere I want to go with a few exceptions. I can get to work, Kroger, and now TJ Maxx and Fresh Market. Maybe not the whole city, but I'm making some progress and for other stuff that is why God created the GPS. Let's be honest, it isn't like a I fully knew my way around Chatt and I lived there for 24 years. My goal is to knock down the amount I call RJ crying because I am lost to once a week, and I'm getting close!
3. In having conversations with other Memphis transplants I have come to the realization that you don't really LOVE this city, it grows on you over time. I am enjoying the company of the people I work with but I am still struggling for some outside socialization. This past weekend fate stepped in and I bumped into Cat, a friend from college, out of the blue. Being one of the nicest people in the world she followed up that night and invited me to church with her the next day. I forced myself to step out of my comfort zone, I went and it was actually pretty amazing. The service was different than what I was used to, but I really enjoyed it. The people were all in my age group and so nice and welcoming that I believe I will drag RJ with me this Sunday to see what he thinks!
So, three months in I feel like a bit of a failure but I am also learning to cut myself a little bit of slack every now and then. I miss my family and friends every day but I know that if I am going to have any shot of real happiness here that I have to actually put forth the effort to make it happen. As silly as it is, I think that part of me is still holding onto the notion that I can't make friends because I already HAVE friends and I don't want anyone to replace them. RJ keeps encouraging me to do new things and I guess it is time I took his advice.
Well Girl Scouts, let's hope you're right because my mission is to make new friends, but keep the old...
Monday, August 15, 2011
Things you need to hear
I came across this article over the weekend and browsed but then bookmarked to look at later.
I did that today on my lunch break and I am so glad that I did.
Take a minute, read it, really read it and then tell me if you honestly could not relate to at least 5 things on the list.
Enlightening: READ
I did that today on my lunch break and I am so glad that I did.
Take a minute, read it, really read it and then tell me if you honestly could not relate to at least 5 things on the list.
Enlightening: READ
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
A Love Letter
"I don't have a lot of friends. They are acquaintances mostly. People that pass through my life, making a minimum of difference to me. But, I'm lucky. Luckier than most really. You see I have a few people in my life who mean the world to me. People who make everything seem so much better. A few people who I wouldn't be who I am today without. These people have changed me and for the better. I'd die for them in an instant, but more importantly, I live for them." -Jacqueline McBride
Sometimes I'm lonely and homesick and it is partially my fault and partially all of yours. You all spoiled me.
You girls came into my life and we just fit. If you look at us as a whole it is pretty comical and hard to fathom how we became the little family we are. But that's just it, we are more than friends, we are a family. You don't choose your family, your family is chosen for you and you just have to find your place within it. My heart and soul are split among seven women who are now taking it all across this country in search of their dreams.
The strong, fiercely free spirited part of my heart lives in South Dakota where she's learning that among the chaos you find yourself exactly where you need to be. Everyday I strive to be a little more like her, a little more true to myself, a little more brave. The exuberant, ever loyal part of my heart has started her life in Colorado where she is finally reaping the rewards she has worked so long and hard to acheive. She reminds me that there is nothing greater than freely giving and receiving love. Nashville has the largest share of my heart, now holding three of the most beautiful pieces. One piece acts as the humored voice of reason who is returning to the amazingly independent women she has always been. No matter how much I see her and how much time I spend with her, it's never enough. The second piece is pure and kind and can make anyone feel like they are the most important thing in the world. She is starting a brand new adventure and I can only hope she is as happy as she makes me just by being who she is. The third is the piece with the most wear and tear as she has been the one who has gone through every up and every down with me. She is confident and beautiful and asks for what she wants, I could never have become who I am without her and I never want to live a single day without her as my friend. The final two pieces are waiting where we all began, in Chattanooga. The very first piece of my heart is here. She was given to me by fate and I am grateful everyday that we were thrown together. She is thoughtful, driven and is ever striving to find her passion. The last piece is unapologetic and independent, she is secretly delicate and has a bigger heart than most understand. She is my confidant and the one who I can always count on, she is amazing but never gives herself enough credit.
Not a day goes by that I don't think of every single one of you. We have all started new lives and begun to go our separate ways, but I don't worry about drifting apart. Our bond is something that can't be broken by time and distance we are connected by unconditional love. I can only hope that one day when I have a daughter she is as truly blessed as I am.
For those of you reading this: I hope you have friends like these and even more so, I hope you never take them for granted.
Sometimes I'm lonely and homesick and it is partially my fault and partially all of yours. You all spoiled me.
You girls came into my life and we just fit. If you look at us as a whole it is pretty comical and hard to fathom how we became the little family we are. But that's just it, we are more than friends, we are a family. You don't choose your family, your family is chosen for you and you just have to find your place within it. My heart and soul are split among seven women who are now taking it all across this country in search of their dreams.
The strong, fiercely free spirited part of my heart lives in South Dakota where she's learning that among the chaos you find yourself exactly where you need to be. Everyday I strive to be a little more like her, a little more true to myself, a little more brave. The exuberant, ever loyal part of my heart has started her life in Colorado where she is finally reaping the rewards she has worked so long and hard to acheive. She reminds me that there is nothing greater than freely giving and receiving love. Nashville has the largest share of my heart, now holding three of the most beautiful pieces. One piece acts as the humored voice of reason who is returning to the amazingly independent women she has always been. No matter how much I see her and how much time I spend with her, it's never enough. The second piece is pure and kind and can make anyone feel like they are the most important thing in the world. She is starting a brand new adventure and I can only hope she is as happy as she makes me just by being who she is. The third is the piece with the most wear and tear as she has been the one who has gone through every up and every down with me. She is confident and beautiful and asks for what she wants, I could never have become who I am without her and I never want to live a single day without her as my friend. The final two pieces are waiting where we all began, in Chattanooga. The very first piece of my heart is here. She was given to me by fate and I am grateful everyday that we were thrown together. She is thoughtful, driven and is ever striving to find her passion. The last piece is unapologetic and independent, she is secretly delicate and has a bigger heart than most understand. She is my confidant and the one who I can always count on, she is amazing but never gives herself enough credit.
Not a day goes by that I don't think of every single one of you. We have all started new lives and begun to go our separate ways, but I don't worry about drifting apart. Our bond is something that can't be broken by time and distance we are connected by unconditional love. I can only hope that one day when I have a daughter she is as truly blessed as I am.
For those of you reading this: I hope you have friends like these and even more so, I hope you never take them for granted.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
I have an obsession
And currently it is peaches.
At work, we are lucky enough to have the local farmer's market come to us every other Friday and a couple of weeks ago I found my favorite thing about Memphis so far, Jone's Orchard.
Honestly, it was luck that steered me to their particular stand. Everyone had peaches, but Jones were the only ones that were taking check cards and I never carry cash. I hopped in line behind a nice lady who informed me that their peaches were the best, especially the white ones. Hold up, white peaches? Yes, White peaches and they are gifts from the gods. They are so much sweeter than golden peaches, with a light floral flavor and none of the tart punch that normal peaches can have. Needless to say, they didn't last long and actually were the subject of a morning argument between RJ and I as I tried to take the last of them to work for breakfast.
I am not kidding, if you get the chance to try a white peach, do yourself a favor and buy more than one.
They didn't have white peaches this last week, so I picked up a large basket of their red skins and they did not disappoint either. We have had peaches in a meal just about everyday and I don't plan to stop anytime soon.
A few of my favorite peachy uses are as follow:
At work, we are lucky enough to have the local farmer's market come to us every other Friday and a couple of weeks ago I found my favorite thing about Memphis so far, Jone's Orchard.
Honestly, it was luck that steered me to their particular stand. Everyone had peaches, but Jones were the only ones that were taking check cards and I never carry cash. I hopped in line behind a nice lady who informed me that their peaches were the best, especially the white ones. Hold up, white peaches? Yes, White peaches and they are gifts from the gods. They are so much sweeter than golden peaches, with a light floral flavor and none of the tart punch that normal peaches can have. Needless to say, they didn't last long and actually were the subject of a morning argument between RJ and I as I tried to take the last of them to work for breakfast.
I am not kidding, if you get the chance to try a white peach, do yourself a favor and buy more than one.
They didn't have white peaches this last week, so I picked up a large basket of their red skins and they did not disappoint either. We have had peaches in a meal just about everyday and I don't plan to stop anytime soon.
A few of my favorite peachy uses are as follow:
- Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza with peaches, smoky, sweet, delicious.
- Peach Salsa, a tasty dip for chips or topping for any grilled meat of your choice.
- Whole wheat pasta with peaches, scallions, and bacon.
- Sliced peaches, sprinkled with cinnamon and topped with fat free frozen Cool Whip(We eat this almost every night)
Friday, July 29, 2011
Time for a Change
Lately I have been feeling a little restless...
I have started to settle into my new home, new job, new life and now all of the newness and excitement has worn off. Don't get me wrong, I am somewhat grateful for some time to relax but the ADD is starting to creep back in and I am ready for a project or two or three or twelve.
First on the list is the one project RJ is dreading the most and keeps somehow dissuading me from doing, PAINTING! Hooray! I want to paint the entire inside of our house. Right now every single, solitary wall is a color that was probably white at some point and it is driving me crazy. I can decorate all I want but it is never going to look finished, in my opinion, until there is something that doesn't say "rental" all over my walls.
I spend basically all of my free time obessively looking at home decorating websites trying to imagine the perfect color pallette for our home. I know I want a bright kitchen and right now I am leaning towards a bright but soft blue, a warm neutral for the den, and the bedrooms are up in the air. All input welcomed and accepted.
Second, I want comfy furniture for our back patio so that it is actually usable. We have a table and chairs that are on our front porch so for the back I want lounge ish stuff so that we can entertain and hang out, once it cools down enough to be able to breath. Something like this would be nice with some bright throw pillows.
Third, as always I want to cut my hair off. As all of you well know I go through this at least once a year where I get tired of my hair and want something new. Currently I am searching a salon here in Memphis so until then I am going crazy with deep conditioning treatments to try and keep the split ends at bay. I am thinking I want something shoulder grazing and layered. Oh, and I want her life. and wardrobe.
I have started to settle into my new home, new job, new life and now all of the newness and excitement has worn off. Don't get me wrong, I am somewhat grateful for some time to relax but the ADD is starting to creep back in and I am ready for a project or two or three or twelve.
First on the list is the one project RJ is dreading the most and keeps somehow dissuading me from doing, PAINTING! Hooray! I want to paint the entire inside of our house. Right now every single, solitary wall is a color that was probably white at some point and it is driving me crazy. I can decorate all I want but it is never going to look finished, in my opinion, until there is something that doesn't say "rental" all over my walls.
I spend basically all of my free time obessively looking at home decorating websites trying to imagine the perfect color pallette for our home. I know I want a bright kitchen and right now I am leaning towards a bright but soft blue, a warm neutral for the den, and the bedrooms are up in the air. All input welcomed and accepted.
Second, I want comfy furniture for our back patio so that it is actually usable. We have a table and chairs that are on our front porch so for the back I want lounge ish stuff so that we can entertain and hang out, once it cools down enough to be able to breath. Something like this would be nice with some bright throw pillows.
Problem is, all the patio stuff I have found costs a million bazillion dollars so I have yet to purchase anything. I don't necessarily want fancy new stuff, just something that I can make my own with some paint and new cushions, however, no one currently wants to part with anything close on Craigslist or in their yard sales. Jerks.Third, as always I want to cut my hair off. As all of you well know I go through this at least once a year where I get tired of my hair and want something new. Currently I am searching a salon here in Memphis so until then I am going crazy with deep conditioning treatments to try and keep the split ends at bay. I am thinking I want something shoulder grazing and layered. Oh, and I want her life. and wardrobe.
So that's my plan for the upcoming week(s). No big deal.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
What did you have for dinner...?
Let's start with a disclaimer, I am a big fan a fruits, vegetables and generally most things healthy.
I'm a big advocate of salads and local fresh produce and homemade healthy meals, but tonight we went CRAZY. Literally.
I had peaches(more on those later) for breakfast and a Lean Cuisine for lunch, but all day I was craving something greasy and fatty and horrible for my body. I fought the urges UNTIL around 2:30 when the Wholly Guacamole facebook page informed me that today, July 21st, is National Junk Food Day.
So, when 4:30 rolled around and my trusty chauffeur RJ picked me up(car and pot hole had a disagreement) I told him I wanted to make a tour of restaurants. Boneless wings, cheese fries, pizza, nachos, BBQ, mac and cheese, chicken fingers, donuts, milkshakes, fried pies, and brownie sundaes was my honest to God list.
We decided to start with Outback. I'm getting, slash that, got cheese fries. They were heavenly.
I'm a big advocate of salads and local fresh produce and homemade healthy meals, but tonight we went CRAZY. Literally.
I had peaches(more on those later) for breakfast and a Lean Cuisine for lunch, but all day I was craving something greasy and fatty and horrible for my body. I fought the urges UNTIL around 2:30 when the Wholly Guacamole facebook page informed me that today, July 21st, is National Junk Food Day.
So, when 4:30 rolled around and my trusty chauffeur RJ picked me up(car and pot hole had a disagreement) I told him I wanted to make a tour of restaurants. Boneless wings, cheese fries, pizza, nachos, BBQ, mac and cheese, chicken fingers, donuts, milkshakes, fried pies, and brownie sundaes was my honest to God list.
We decided to start with Outback. I'm getting, slash that, got cheese fries. They were heavenly.
And...too much for my tummy to handle. After 1/4 of the way through I was done and full.
We didn't go to O'Charley's, or Krispy Kreme, or anywhere but Kroger for supplies. Not antacids, or tums,or Sprite. We couldn't throw in the towel that easily. We bought Twinkies, Oatmeal Cream Pies, and Double Stuft Oreos, got in the car, took an hour or two break and then we
FRIED ALL OF IT.
You Can Too! The recipe is simple:
Deep Fried Fun
1 cup baking mix, like Bisquick
1 cup water
1 Tablespoon vinegar
1 Teaspoon salt
Anything delicious you can think of, snack cakes, candy bars, cookies, you name it!
Powdered sugar for sprinkling.
Chill your items while you mix the batter ingredients together and heat the oil.
Heat oil to around 375 degrees, or insert a wooden spoon handle first to the bottom of your pan and wait until bubbles rise around the base.
Dip your selected items and fry 1.5 minutes per side until golden brown
Lay out to drain on a paper towel and sprinkle with powered sugar.
So amazing, so sinful, but also so a once a year kind of thing!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Finding Purpose Without Planning
It seems like my whole life I have been following a plan that I laid out for myself :
I didn't start my journey to Memphis to find my purpose, I packed my bags for love and along the way found more to love than I ever imagined possible. My purpose is a cluster of light pink buildings in downtown Memphis that in this short 2 months have showed me that there is more than going through the motions.
I work for ALSAC St. Jude. I work to raise funds so that children will one day be able to lead full, healthy, and happy lives. I go to work everyday for HER.
Our CEO challenged us to pick a patient and work for them. When we are tired or frustrated to remember we are not fighting nearly as hard as they are. We don't work to pad a corporate bank account, we work because it takes $1.7 million/day to operate this hospital so that kids like Emma get the chance to keep fighting. I now have a drive to do my very best work, put forth the effort it takes to make anything I do a success all because I know that this is what I was meant to do.
I always thought St. Jude was a great charity when I would see it on TV, but I never knew how truly inspiring and amazing it is. I took a huge leap of faith and ended up right where I belong.
Take a minute to read what can happen when you stop following your own plan and let Someone Greater direct your path.
Danny's Story
- Go to college and graduate on time with a degree that showed that I lived up to my potential, not took the easy road.
- Find a job and join the work force to prove that I am actually using the degrees I worked to earn.
- Make everyone else happy and don't let anyone down.
I didn't start my journey to Memphis to find my purpose, I packed my bags for love and along the way found more to love than I ever imagined possible. My purpose is a cluster of light pink buildings in downtown Memphis that in this short 2 months have showed me that there is more than going through the motions.
I work for ALSAC St. Jude. I work to raise funds so that children will one day be able to lead full, healthy, and happy lives. I go to work everyday for HER.
Our CEO challenged us to pick a patient and work for them. When we are tired or frustrated to remember we are not fighting nearly as hard as they are. We don't work to pad a corporate bank account, we work because it takes $1.7 million/day to operate this hospital so that kids like Emma get the chance to keep fighting. I now have a drive to do my very best work, put forth the effort it takes to make anything I do a success all because I know that this is what I was meant to do.
I always thought St. Jude was a great charity when I would see it on TV, but I never knew how truly inspiring and amazing it is. I took a huge leap of faith and ended up right where I belong.
Take a minute to read what can happen when you stop following your own plan and let Someone Greater direct your path.
Danny's Story
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Weekend Visitors!
So Saturday morning brought our very first house guests...MY SISTERS!
I was so happy to see them and to try to show them around Memphis. We all know I am not too great with directions, so TRY we did.
Saturday after they changed out of their traveling clothes we loaded back into the car to head to see my new office, grab some lunch at a Memphis favorite, and then see what else I could stumble upon on the way.
As my life goes, none of the plan actually worked out. The gate to St. Jude that I normally go through was closed and I didn't know how to get to the others. The line for Gus' Fried Chicken was wrapped around the buliding and Jess and Al's rumbling tummy's, which were on Eastern time, could not stand to wait. So, after a brief, arm crossing, foot stomping pout, I put on my Polly Anna tour guide smile and attempted to navigate to an alternative.
We ended up parking downtown and set out on foot to see what we could find. 1st bonus, we happened to park right next to the Gibson guitar factory and museum, of course I totally meant to do that... We wandered to Beale street in search of some kind of local deliciousness. We walked up and down and then around and back down probably walking 24 miles in the same 5 block area before deciding on Huey's. It was absolutely fantastic. Believe me and if you go, get the sweet potato fries. They are amazing. Not kidding, TRY THEM!
Then we headed to a place called Wet Willie's for some refreshing frozen cocktails. I had the Pink Flamingo, a mix of strawbery and pina colada. Al had the Easter Egg, which she kept saying tasted like fruit rollup, and Jess had a fresh fruit strawberry daiquiri. Dear Chattanooga, I am sorry to report this is better than The Big Chill.
Next, we took our drinks and started walking to the world famous Peabody Hotel to see the march of the ducks. We got there 30 minutes early, but due to the heat and the holiday weekend, the lobby surrounding the fountain was packed with children and their fanny pack clad parents. We took the stairs and got a pretty good viewing spot from the balcony to wait for the march to begin.
For those not familiar with the ducks, they march from their rooftop home down a red carpet into the lobby and swim around a giant fountain for the amusement of the guests twice a day. They are super cute and very well trained. For Rikki, they only work in this environment and then are released into a sanctuary to live out the remainder of their little ducky lives, so don't worry.
That night after a brief shower and change we went to grab some yummy dinner with RJ's parents at Central BBQ and then called it a night for some much needed rest.
Sunday we crossed our fingers, prayed for some luck and headed to Tunica to visit the casinos. No one did too well. Alex and RJ lost all their money, Jessica faired a little better and I broke even. But, hey we got some free drinks and an afternoon worth of entertainment.
That night we headed back to Beale street where we drank the famous Diver out of a bucket from Silky O'Sullivan's, had jello shots out of giant plastic syringes, and somehow managed to get into some VIP third floor dance club. We all had an absolute blast!
So that was my looooooong weekend. I recovered by falling asleep somewhere around 8:00 last night and completely missed all the fireworks.
Oh well, I've got plenty of sparklers for tonight! Happy belated birthday America?
I was so happy to see them and to try to show them around Memphis. We all know I am not too great with directions, so TRY we did.
Saturday after they changed out of their traveling clothes we loaded back into the car to head to see my new office, grab some lunch at a Memphis favorite, and then see what else I could stumble upon on the way.
As my life goes, none of the plan actually worked out. The gate to St. Jude that I normally go through was closed and I didn't know how to get to the others. The line for Gus' Fried Chicken was wrapped around the buliding and Jess and Al's rumbling tummy's, which were on Eastern time, could not stand to wait. So, after a brief, arm crossing, foot stomping pout, I put on my Polly Anna tour guide smile and attempted to navigate to an alternative.
We ended up parking downtown and set out on foot to see what we could find. 1st bonus, we happened to park right next to the Gibson guitar factory and museum, of course I totally meant to do that... We wandered to Beale street in search of some kind of local deliciousness. We walked up and down and then around and back down probably walking 24 miles in the same 5 block area before deciding on Huey's. It was absolutely fantastic. Believe me and if you go, get the sweet potato fries. They are amazing. Not kidding, TRY THEM!
Then we headed to a place called Wet Willie's for some refreshing frozen cocktails. I had the Pink Flamingo, a mix of strawbery and pina colada. Al had the Easter Egg, which she kept saying tasted like fruit rollup, and Jess had a fresh fruit strawberry daiquiri. Dear Chattanooga, I am sorry to report this is better than The Big Chill.
Next, we took our drinks and started walking to the world famous Peabody Hotel to see the march of the ducks. We got there 30 minutes early, but due to the heat and the holiday weekend, the lobby surrounding the fountain was packed with children and their fanny pack clad parents. We took the stairs and got a pretty good viewing spot from the balcony to wait for the march to begin.
For those not familiar with the ducks, they march from their rooftop home down a red carpet into the lobby and swim around a giant fountain for the amusement of the guests twice a day. They are super cute and very well trained. For Rikki, they only work in this environment and then are released into a sanctuary to live out the remainder of their little ducky lives, so don't worry.
That night after a brief shower and change we went to grab some yummy dinner with RJ's parents at Central BBQ and then called it a night for some much needed rest.
Sunday we crossed our fingers, prayed for some luck and headed to Tunica to visit the casinos. No one did too well. Alex and RJ lost all their money, Jessica faired a little better and I broke even. But, hey we got some free drinks and an afternoon worth of entertainment.
That night we headed back to Beale street where we drank the famous Diver out of a bucket from Silky O'Sullivan's, had jello shots out of giant plastic syringes, and somehow managed to get into some VIP third floor dance club. We all had an absolute blast!
So that was my looooooong weekend. I recovered by falling asleep somewhere around 8:00 last night and completely missed all the fireworks.
Oh well, I've got plenty of sparklers for tonight! Happy belated birthday America?
Friday, July 1, 2011
Everyone else is doing it...
Since I have never been one to really resist peer pressure, I figured I would join the world of blogging to keep everyone in the loop on my adventures here in Memphis.
First, let me say that I am doing this under slight protest. My thoughts were that if I didn't give in it would force you all to come visit, however, no one seems to be in the road trip frame of mind.
So, here's to Memphis and learning that life goes on, whether it's according to my plan or not.
First, let me say that I am doing this under slight protest. My thoughts were that if I didn't give in it would force you all to come visit, however, no one seems to be in the road trip frame of mind.
So, here's to Memphis and learning that life goes on, whether it's according to my plan or not.
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