Cooking, eating, magazine reading, snacking and napping!
Well Look Who Has A Second Bathroom
17 hours ago
Showing posts with label New Year's. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Year's. Show all posts
Front Porch Friday
Told ya there would be lots of Ellie pictures! Here is what's going on from my "Front Porch" these days. These are scenes from New Year's Day. (I misplaced my camera chord for a few days....which is why I'm behind on my posting!) This pretty much sums up how we rung in 2011. A lazy morning....
Cooking, eating, magazine reading, snacking and napping!
Cooking, eating, magazine reading, snacking and napping!
The Roller Coaster of 2010
If you've read this blog at all or know me in the slightest, you probably already know the type of year it's been. And if you're new to these parts, or my life, lets just say that it's been the biggest, scariest roller-coaster-ride-of-a-year that I've ever had. There were some happy ups, terrible unplanned drops, and plenty of unexpected turns.
There was total determination to move back to SC after 6 years in DC. There was the challenge of finding a job in a bad recession. There was the absolute joy when the right thing happened at the right time. The move, like any big move, was stressful- but totally worth the car trouble we endured that turned into an all night drive.
There was total peace about my decision to move back and big plans for my first official weekend back. An over-due date was planned for that Fri. night, shopping with my sister, and going to pick some delicious fresh strawberries. And then there was April 30th. There were sleepless nights, endless tears, and pure heart-break.
There was a big move, a birth, a death, two weddings, two graduations, a Cancer diagnosis, two major surgeries, and an engagement all within my family this year. There certainly was a "Time for Everything" for us this year. There are too many life lessons learned to even list.
But I like lists, so I'll take a stab at it.
1. Everything really will work out exactly how it's supposed to, exactly when it's supposed to.
2. Southern hospitality makes life happier.
3. Being snowed in for 8 days or so is totally overrated. It's all hot chocolate and "look how pretty" until you have to shovel it.
4. Old friends are always there when you need them.
5. New friends are pretty cool too.
6. Long distance job hunting in a recession is really, really hard.
7. The stars are sooooo much brighter in SC.
8. Faith and Family means everything.
9. Sweet tea can make a bad day a little better.
10. Cancer Sucks. But have lots of hope!
11. Keep Climbing.
12. Let it out.
13. A White Christmas really is something to dream about.
14. You have to eventually pick up the pieces.
15. A lot of little, makes a lot of lots.
16. Goodbyes are hard.
17. It never really gets easier. Randy's memory and sweet spirit will be close to our hearts forever.
And the ultimate lesson learned: Life is short....take the pictures,
tell people you love them, go on vacation,
take a chance, make memories, ask for forgiveness, forgive others, do what you love, dance
go to the reunion, get the dog, love, catch up with an old friend, flirt, celebrate everything, and keep in the sunlight.
There was total determination to move back to SC after 6 years in DC. There was the challenge of finding a job in a bad recession. There was the absolute joy when the right thing happened at the right time. The move, like any big move, was stressful- but totally worth the car trouble we endured that turned into an all night drive.
There was total peace about my decision to move back and big plans for my first official weekend back. An over-due date was planned for that Fri. night, shopping with my sister, and going to pick some delicious fresh strawberries. And then there was April 30th. There were sleepless nights, endless tears, and pure heart-break.
There was a big move, a birth, a death, two weddings, two graduations, a Cancer diagnosis, two major surgeries, and an engagement all within my family this year. There certainly was a "Time for Everything" for us this year. There are too many life lessons learned to even list.
But I like lists, so I'll take a stab at it.
1. Everything really will work out exactly how it's supposed to, exactly when it's supposed to.
2. Southern hospitality makes life happier.
3. Being snowed in for 8 days or so is totally overrated. It's all hot chocolate and "look how pretty" until you have to shovel it.
4. Old friends are always there when you need them.
5. New friends are pretty cool too.
6. Long distance job hunting in a recession is really, really hard.
7. The stars are sooooo much brighter in SC.
8. Faith and Family means everything.
9. Sweet tea can make a bad day a little better.
10. Cancer Sucks. But have lots of hope!
11. Keep Climbing.
12. Let it out.
13. A White Christmas really is something to dream about.
14. You have to eventually pick up the pieces.
15. A lot of little, makes a lot of lots.
16. Goodbyes are hard.
17. It never really gets easier. Randy's memory and sweet spirit will be close to our hearts forever.
And the ultimate lesson learned: Life is short....take the pictures,
tell people you love them, go on vacation,
take a chance, make memories, ask for forgiveness, forgive others, do what you love, dance
go to the reunion, get the dog, love, catch up with an old friend, flirt, celebrate everything, and keep in the sunlight.
That's my moto for 2011- to "Keep in the Sunlight!" It comes from this quote:
"Do not anticipate trouble or worry about what may never happen. Keep in the sunlight." -Benjamin Franklin
Happy New Everything
Ahhhhhh, a new year, a new decade, a new month, AND a new week. Can you handle all of this newness? I think I could handle it a tiny bit better if I weren't shivering from the blustery cold weather. I am quickly realizing that I should have asked Santa for an electric blanket and long johns! I'm taking the bitterly cold weather as an excuse to hibernate under a warm blanket, read all the books I acquired from my mom's house over the break, and update my Netflix account!
I just returned from a 2 week vacation in SC and am trying to prevent that post-vacation/holiday funk from setting in. Things are already different in 2010 since a good friend has moved away and some changes have taken place at work. It's a good thing that I have a massive size New Year's To-Do list to distract me!
I know it's soooooo cliche to blog about resolutions and organizing and goals for 2010. But I'm loving all the articles and stories about how to stay motivated and tips on how to use all the energy that a new year brings.
After indulging in all the holiday treats in meals- I'm CRAVING veggies and water. After all the clutter and extra "stuff" that the holidays bring- I'm CRAVING empty and organized spaces.
Over the last month, I came across some websites and blogs that I'm looking forward to following this year. They're positive, inspirational, and thought provoking. Just what the doctor ordered for the fresh start of 2010!
I just returned from a 2 week vacation in SC and am trying to prevent that post-vacation/holiday funk from setting in. Things are already different in 2010 since a good friend has moved away and some changes have taken place at work. It's a good thing that I have a massive size New Year's To-Do list to distract me!
I know it's soooooo cliche to blog about resolutions and organizing and goals for 2010. But I'm loving all the articles and stories about how to stay motivated and tips on how to use all the energy that a new year brings.
After indulging in all the holiday treats in meals- I'm CRAVING veggies and water. After all the clutter and extra "stuff" that the holidays bring- I'm CRAVING empty and organized spaces.
Over the last month, I came across some websites and blogs that I'm looking forward to following this year. They're positive, inspirational, and thought provoking. Just what the doctor ordered for the fresh start of 2010!
Do you have any good "New Year's" blog suggestions?
Make a Wish!
January was all about Change, Hope, History, Inspiration, and New Beginnings. February is all about ME! Just kidding...well, sort of. Despite the fact that February means it's still winter, (which you should know by now just isn't my favorite season), it's a good month. It's the month of my birth, Valentine's Day, and the start of Spring Training (10 days until pitchers and catchers report.)
So my official New Year is off to a good start. I finally caught up on all the errands, organizing, and cleaning I wanted to do before the start of the 2009. My friends and family are the best and helped me celebrate a fun Birthday over the weekend! By the third rendition of Happy Birthday, I made a comment that I had the chance to make several birthday candle wishes. My very tactful friend, Shira, said something to the effect of, "I'm trying to give you lots of chances so your wishes will come true and you'll have a better year than last!" She even had one of those candles that keeps relighting itself so I had to keep blowing it out.
So here's to a great 27th year!
So my official New Year is off to a good start. I finally caught up on all the errands, organizing, and cleaning I wanted to do before the start of the 2009. My friends and family are the best and helped me celebrate a fun Birthday over the weekend! By the third rendition of Happy Birthday, I made a comment that I had the chance to make several birthday candle wishes. My very tactful friend, Shira, said something to the effect of, "I'm trying to give you lots of chances so your wishes will come true and you'll have a better year than last!" She even had one of those candles that keeps relighting itself so I had to keep blowing it out.
So here's to a great 27th year!
Doldrums
It's been a busy week, so blogging has been on the back burner.
Inauguration! The excitement of the Inauguration is building here in DC. There is a sea of porta potties on the Mall, fencing everywhere, and traffic is getting worse by the day. I'm trying to brace myself for the saturation of people that will be coming. It will certainly be interesting getting around with the road closures and crowds, but I'm definitely looking forward to the 4 day weekend and all of the festivities!
Music Coming Soon! I just wanted to warn you that I'm adding a short playlist to the blog. So beware if you open up my page at work or school! You'll be able to turn it off if you don't like it, but it will start automatically when the blog comes up.
New Year's Take 2! I'm thinking about having a New Year's re-do. There are so many things I needed and wanted to do to get organized and ready for 2009 that just didn't happen! I already feel behind....I mean, I JUST bought a new planner for 2009 this week. I know it's bad when I'm a week behind on my TV shows of all things! Maybe I'll start my New Year next week after the long weekend hopefully gives me a chance to catch up! Or maybe I'll start it on my birthday in a few weeks. It's true southern tradition to take your time and be a little slower than the rest of the world. So it's perfectly okay for me to start 2009 a few weeks late, right?
I did a few things last week- like planned out meals, bought healthy snacks, and went to the gym a total of 2 times. But this week, the winter doldrums have taken up root in my life. When the wind chill is 8 degrees (as it is right this second), my natural southern inclination is to hibernate and eat. And that's exactly what I've done this week! Anyone else feeling the winter blues?
According to some researchers, the most depressing day of the year, which they refer to as "Blue Monday," is coming up next week! So brace yourself!
Inauguration! The excitement of the Inauguration is building here in DC. There is a sea of porta potties on the Mall, fencing everywhere, and traffic is getting worse by the day. I'm trying to brace myself for the saturation of people that will be coming. It will certainly be interesting getting around with the road closures and crowds, but I'm definitely looking forward to the 4 day weekend and all of the festivities!
Music Coming Soon! I just wanted to warn you that I'm adding a short playlist to the blog. So beware if you open up my page at work or school! You'll be able to turn it off if you don't like it, but it will start automatically when the blog comes up.
New Year's Take 2! I'm thinking about having a New Year's re-do. There are so many things I needed and wanted to do to get organized and ready for 2009 that just didn't happen! I already feel behind....I mean, I JUST bought a new planner for 2009 this week. I know it's bad when I'm a week behind on my TV shows of all things! Maybe I'll start my New Year next week after the long weekend hopefully gives me a chance to catch up! Or maybe I'll start it on my birthday in a few weeks. It's true southern tradition to take your time and be a little slower than the rest of the world. So it's perfectly okay for me to start 2009 a few weeks late, right?
I did a few things last week- like planned out meals, bought healthy snacks, and went to the gym a total of 2 times. But this week, the winter doldrums have taken up root in my life. When the wind chill is 8 degrees (as it is right this second), my natural southern inclination is to hibernate and eat. And that's exactly what I've done this week! Anyone else feeling the winter blues?
According to some researchers, the most depressing day of the year, which they refer to as "Blue Monday," is coming up next week! So brace yourself!
Deco Inspiration
I'm a total wannabe! I have all these ideas and desires to be crafty and creative. I want to learn to sew. I want to have a cute shabby chic house. But I have no idea where to start. The problem with having a mom that can literally do it all, is that I never have to learn to do these things for myself. The fact that my mom taught herself to do everything from french braid, sew just about anything, refinish furniture, and her new favorite- arranging flowers, gives me hope that I can become a do it yourself type too. Hopefully I got some of those genes.
Another person that inspires me, is a good friend from college. She's taking a "just do it" approach and is signed up for cooking, sewing, interior design, and cake decorating classes just because she wants to. Special thanks to her for recommending some of the new design sites I've listed!
So to hopefully light a fire and start tackling some of my own projects, I created my own little Deco File from Domino Magazine's website. You can see it at the bottom of this page.
Maybe 2009 will be the year I break out of the wannabe category!
Another person that inspires me, is a good friend from college. She's taking a "just do it" approach and is signed up for cooking, sewing, interior design, and cake decorating classes just because she wants to. Special thanks to her for recommending some of the new design sites I've listed!
So to hopefully light a fire and start tackling some of my own projects, I created my own little Deco File from Domino Magazine's website. You can see it at the bottom of this page.
Maybe 2009 will be the year I break out of the wannabe category!
Happy 2009!
I love those year in review segments about what's happened in the past year. It's so interesting to me to look back at all of the captions and stories that captivated us.
I'm not going to lie, I've been on the fence about 2008. There were some good times- a new job, celebrating my sister's wedding, and the election going my way to name a few. And there were some not so good times. The not so good times opened my eyes and helped me grow as a person. Hopefully resulting in me be happier, healthier and more fulfilled.
If I learned anything last year it's to BE TRUE TO YOURSELF. This is a mantra my mom has repeatedly preached to me over the years. I thought I did a pretty good job at this. But it took a heart breaking experience to teach me the lesson the hard way. I'm looking forward to a fresh start and renewed spirit in 2009.
Like most of the rest of the world, I'd love to get in shape, loose some weight, and be more organized in the new year. But I'm well aware of the slim chances that all of that will actually happen.
So here are some a few things I'm looking forward to this coming month:
TV- Big Love- Season 3 begins January 18th. This show was an unfortunate victim of last year's writer strike. It's finally baaaaack!!!
Inauguration Day- January 20th
It's going to be an epic and historical day and the beginning of a new political era for our country. It's going to be a crazy, insane, hectic, crowded city. But I wouldn't be anywhere else but DC celebrating and experiencing this occasion. I have tickets to the South Carolina State Society Inaugural Ball and am soooo looking forward to it!
One more thing....It came to my attention that a few of my non-southern friends (bless their hearts) haven't heard of eating collards and black-eyed peas on New Year's for good luck. A friend saw collards in my fridge yesterday and said, "what are these plants doing in your fridge?" So it's my job to inform anyone else that may not know of this southern tradition. There's a southern saying "Eat poor on New Year's, eat fat the rest of the year." So you're supposed to eat black-eyed peas and collard greens for good luck and wealth.
I'll have plenty of leftovers if anyone wants to partake!
I'm not going to lie, I've been on the fence about 2008. There were some good times- a new job, celebrating my sister's wedding, and the election going my way to name a few. And there were some not so good times. The not so good times opened my eyes and helped me grow as a person. Hopefully resulting in me be happier, healthier and more fulfilled.
If I learned anything last year it's to BE TRUE TO YOURSELF. This is a mantra my mom has repeatedly preached to me over the years. I thought I did a pretty good job at this. But it took a heart breaking experience to teach me the lesson the hard way. I'm looking forward to a fresh start and renewed spirit in 2009.
Like most of the rest of the world, I'd love to get in shape, loose some weight, and be more organized in the new year. But I'm well aware of the slim chances that all of that will actually happen.
So here are some a few things I'm looking forward to this coming month:
TV- Big Love- Season 3 begins January 18th. This show was an unfortunate victim of last year's writer strike. It's finally baaaaack!!!
Inauguration Day- January 20th
It's going to be an epic and historical day and the beginning of a new political era for our country. It's going to be a crazy, insane, hectic, crowded city. But I wouldn't be anywhere else but DC celebrating and experiencing this occasion. I have tickets to the South Carolina State Society Inaugural Ball and am soooo looking forward to it!
One more thing....It came to my attention that a few of my non-southern friends (bless their hearts) haven't heard of eating collards and black-eyed peas on New Year's for good luck. A friend saw collards in my fridge yesterday and said, "what are these plants doing in your fridge?" So it's my job to inform anyone else that may not know of this southern tradition. There's a southern saying "Eat poor on New Year's, eat fat the rest of the year." So you're supposed to eat black-eyed peas and collard greens for good luck and wealth.
I'll have plenty of leftovers if anyone wants to partake!
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