Blissful Inspirations

this week's to-do list

2012-02-01T08:06:00.001-06:00

- attend to my growing pile of laundry

- call a few of my fabulous girlfriends whom I miss so dearly

- make the final plans & begin a packing list for my upcoming trip

- dig my summer clothes out of storage and sort through the colorful clothing in preparation for next week

- paint my nails a fabulous shade of baby pink
- get a few blog posts ready for my week of absence
- clean & organize my room/office/bathroom

- clean my car, from the messy/disorganized inside to the salty/dirt crusted outside

- update my hair-do with a some fresh highlights

- prep charts {at work} for next week, so it will be a smooth transition for the CMA taking over in my absence

- get started on the ever-so-fun task of taxes

- spend time with a few friends, before I become incommunicado for a week

- have a quick chat with all the amazing people we will be staying with in California

- eat healthy and stay active to help with stress

- run a few errands to target, walgreens
- catch up on a few of my tv shows that I am so far behind with

- place a few online orders that I have been meaning to accomplish for a few week
- fit in a few plasma appointments

- enjoy this amazing 'winter' weather that we have been blessed with

fitness plan

2012-01-31T10:05:00.001-06:00

With this new year comes new challenges and adventures that we all aspire to. For me, this spring I am training for a 1/2 Marathon with my mom. Now don't be too impressed, I am power walking some of it, but I would like to try my hand {well more like my feet} at running some of the miles. I wish I could train to run it all, but after a knee problem that I developed in high school, it prevents me from running for longer then a few miles

I did participate in a 1/2 marathon a few years ago but didn't take it to seriously and didn't think I would really need to train for it. Boy was I ever wrong!! By the end of those 13 miles I had blisters, pulled muscles, and I felt like my legs would rip into a dozen pieces. I had never felt quite like that and I promised myself I never would again. After all, it wasn't a casual 13 mile stroll where I could stop to sniff the flowers and take a break, this was hours of power walking and running in short sprints.

This time it will be much different. I made an 11 week schedule for my mom and I, that has us training 6 days a week with the goal being our 1/2 Marathon. Along with the fitness plan I will also be restricting my diet and trying to fuel my body with the proper nutrient that it will need for the training that I will under go. We will be starting right after B and I get back from California, on our strict fitness plan!

fill in the blank friday

2012-01-27T07:29:00.003-06:00

If you didn't know by now, these posts derive from Lauren, who just had a beautiful baby girl, Fern. Go check out her amazing birth story, it's so inspiring and certainly makes me want try a natural birth someday.

These are pretty much the perfect blanks to fill in this Friday for me, because Brian and I are in the final few weeks till we leave for California {where I grew up and where much of my family & friends still live}. Never mind about the 'few weeks', we only have 12 days to go!

1. My favorite place I've ever traveled to is England! Who could not love going over seas and seeing the amazing world of wonder. I also love Mexico because I've been there a few times with different people and loved all the amazing memories from those trips.

2. Ireland, Greece, New Zealand, Germany, France, Italy are some places I'd love to go someday.

3. I pass the time on a place {or bus, or car tide or train} by listening to music, writing in my journal, and mostly day-dreaming of what just happened or what is yet to come!

4. My 3 must-haves when I travel are a good book, my camera,

5. My favorite travel companion is someone who knows me really well. That's why traveling with B will be so much fun.

6. The craziest thing that ever happened to me while traveling is I got stung by a jelly fish. Well 3 of them to be exact on 3 different days in Mexico!! I guess they just loved me there. The 1st one was the worst, it stretched from my left wrist and wrapped around my arm up to my shoulder. The locals kept telling me to have someone pee on it, and I instantly thought of the friends episode. Anyone know which episode I'm talking about? Yeah, my friend Brittany and I gave each other one look, busted out laughing and just grabbed a bag of ice.

7. The most exotic food I've ever tried while traveling is a buffalo burger. That's about as exotic as I get sorry to disappoint, but I really don't have the urge to ingest weird food just to say that I did it.

8. If I could live anywhere else, I'd live in Ireland or England. I love the mix of cultures there and the quaint way of life, and that way I could still speak English.

9. I have been to 38 states in the U.S.

dread to delight

2012-01-26T07:38:00.001-06:00

My palms were sweating, my hands shaking, and I felt that my brain would explode with the information that I had been cramming into it for the past few weeks. I was way more nervous then I let on to the lovely ladies at the front desk who made me turn out my pockets and lock my purse away for the next 3 hours. Even those closest to me, my family and friends, I tried not to show just how terrified I really was.

I was terrified of failure.

I had been dreading this particular day for about 1 1/2 years and it was finally upon me. It was upon me in a very official way as I sat down at the computer that was reserved for me with a camera eyeing me for the next few hours while answered the 4 sections of tedious questions.

As the exam wrapped up I thought I would feel relieved, but as it grew closer to the end I got more and more nervous. I entered in the final answer and sat there staring at the blue screen for the longest 6 seconds of my life. As meaningless words filled the screen, there was only one word that I was looking for: 'pass' and I found it nestled in the bottom corner of the screen almost hiding from my eyes just to make the process more nerve racking.

I had passed. I had passed the longest exam of my life to become a Certified Medical Assistant. It still wasn't sinking in. I returned to the front desk to gather the papers I would need to prove that I had passed this exam that left my head sore and tired, but at that point I didn't care. While I haven't had any exams for school in months, this particular one {being the largest of my career} was the final stamp on my education. It was the final stroke that pulled me into the medical world.

I don't think it really set in until yesterday morning when I strolled into work, only focusing on trying not to fall as my boots slid over the slick icy covered sidewalks. There waiting for me at my desk was a symbol of celebration in the form of a wonderfully colored cake with the words "Congratulations Emily CMA." I fought back the urge to burst into tears as I realized how much my co-workers wanted to celebrate this accomplishment with me just as much as I did. It totally made my day!

my latest obsession

2012-01-14T08:13:00.000-06:00

I used to think that all teas where alike, from Lipton to Celestial Seasonings {which was my favorite till now} but my opinion totally changed when I stepped into a local tea shop called Infinitea Teahouse. This tea shop contained tin upon tin of various types of loose leaf teas. It was more than I even knew existed and I instantly knew I couldn't wait to try some. After we {B and I} looked through the mile long list we picked out a few to try. I bought a few accessories {the picture below: loose tea infuser basket, thermometer, and piggy timer} to add to my new collection of tea along with a clear latch jar to keep everything together.

I love sweat drinks. Just follow me around in the morning and you will see just how much coffee {with creamer} I drink, or the sweet alcoholic drinks that I would pick any day over the bitterness of beer. So when it comes to tea, I always thought that honey was a staple in any cup of tea to cut the bitterness. Little did I know that it was bitter due to the inaccurate way I was steeping my tea. Not with Infinitea though, they give you the specific instructions so that you can maximize the flavor, and in my case leave out the artificial sweeteners. So with each variation of tea, comes it's own specific instructions, for example the Coconut Truffle black tea {B's favorite} steeps for 3 minutes at 212 degrees while the Wild Cherry herbal tea {my favorite} steeps for 5 minutes at 212 degrees.

You can check out their website for more information. I don't think I will ever go back to boxed tea again!

XOXO Emily

fill in the blank friday

2012-01-13T08:14:00.000-06:00

1. The last thing I ate was {what I am having now} coffee, and lots of it!

2. The last song listened to was Jennifer Lopez's 'On The Floor', I was at the gym and in an exercise class.

3. Using the letters in my name I can spell {Emily} lily, mile, em, lime, lye, lie, elm, el.

4. If I had to dress in one color for the rest of my life I would pick: purple. I am hoping that this means jeans and other pants can be included. It's not my favorite color but I think purple is pretty much flattering on everyone and I love wearing purple shades of eyeshadow with my dark brown eye.

5. If you were to look in my bad right not you'd find: a first aid kit {the medical person in me also caries a more extensive one in my car} my wallet, a reusable bag, make-up,

6. When I finish filling in these blanks I'm going to go shovel some snow then jump into a nice warm shower! I love winter weather!!

7. My all time favorite song to dance to is: {I'm gunna cheat and pick a few} Do What You Want or Invincible by OK GO, Le Disko by Shiny Toy Guns, California Girls by Katy Perry, {totally from high school}: In the Ayer by Flo Rida, Wannbe by Spice Girls {I have very distinct memories of dancing to that song in the dorms}, and of course Fruit Salad by the Wiggles {that one's for you Danielle!!}

Check out Lauren at the little things we do to join in on this friday fun!

XOXO Emily

what I am lovin in december

2012-01-06T10:27:00.000-06:00

By now, you probably know what these are all about, if not you can check out my previous 'what I am lovin in {enter month here}'. December was one of those totally crazy months that flew by, and so much happened. I haven't been blogging as much as I've wanted to as of late, but a goal for this year is to focus more on my blog and branch out in new directions with it.

Seasonal Christmas Celebrations
This month everything from wrapping Christmas presents to decorating the house in festive decor, this month had a very distinct theme. In this picture, our cute little kitty tried to help me wrap presents while I sprawled my Christmas tools all over the family room coffee table.
Photo source: my own photo

Revlon Lip Butter
These have been a recent necessity of mine. I am not normally a fan of lipstick so these are perfect for me. They provide plenty of moisture while giving a wash of color.
Photo source: here

Christmas music
There is nothing better than the wonderful sound of Christmas carols during these winter months. I resisted this year to wait till after Thanksgiving to start the music and treasured each day that artists like Amy Grant rang through our house.
Photo source: here

Neutrogena Natural Face & Body Bar
If your are like me, then you like a very clean feeling when it comes to washing my face. I love that squeaky feeling of a clean face and that's what this Neutrogena bar soap does. The original Neutrogena bar {that is supposedly 'fragrance free'} smells terrible but the natural version is amazing.
Photo source: here

Modern Family
Yes, I have another favorite show this month and this one was introduced my my sister. If you want a show that keeps you laughing and entertained, try this one out. My sister graciously gave me the 1st season as a Christmas gift and I've watched almost all of them already.
Photo source: here

Carmel Filled Chocolates
Chocolate has been pretty abundant during this time of year and this season was no different.
Photo source: here

Snow
We certainly haven't had much but when the weather permits, I have really enjoyed the beautiful wonderland that snow emits. Even though the weather hasn't dipped below about 20 and we've broken new records for the heat I still wish we could have a little more snow.
Photo source: here

Peppermint Mocha Coffee Creamer
Coffee is always a necessity in my day, but the Christmas season always has the best coffee creamer flavors. I always joke about stocking up for the new year, maybe I'll actually do that this season.
Photo source: here

Oreo Truffles
I have made at least 6 dozen of these amazing truffles. They are the easiest desserts to make {with only 3 ingredients} and they are one of my favorites. I took a few dozen to work and 4 people asked for the recipe. That is a good sign that they are a recipe to keep.
Photo source: my own photo

what we've learned

2011-12-20T08:53:00.000-06:00

6 months. Yes that's how many months ago Brian and I met. It seems like the first weekend we met was only a few days ago, but then again, it feel like I've known him all my life.Here are just a few of the many things we have learned about each other, I even got him in on this post to add what he has discovered.

A few things I have learned from the past 6 months:
: I certainly didn't know how much my life could change, for the better, so fast
: he is an amazing cook
: I never thought I'd meet someone who is so similar to me
: we agree on almost everything, except maybe how we like our coffee {I don't have the stomach or the taste buds for black coffee}
: he can cheer me up with a simple text or a lil kiss on the cheek
: he will make an amazing dad some day {picture below is his adorable niece + Godchild, almost 8 weeks old}
: friends and family are so so important
: I can't imagine my life without him

A few things he has learned from the past 6 months {he came up with these on his own}:
: the Lord has blessed us so much already
: he has learned how to trust in me completely because I am "perfect" {that is his choice or words, not mine}
: his future is bright because of us
: everything happens for a reason {how we met}
: the Lord takes care of us and always will
: it's not always true that opposites attract, in our case the opposite is true

A few the things we have learned from the past 6 months:
: we both truly love each others families like they are our own
: the song "God Gave Me You" fits so perfectly for us
: he can put up with all of my crazy ways, and I can gladly handle with his wacky ways too =)
: we have the same views on the big issues in life
: we are both love to travel, whether it's a day trip or a trip across country {like our trip to Cali in February}
: the Lord is the center of our relationship
: most of the time we don't even need words to understand what the other is thinking
: we truly understand each other
: we never thought it was possible to love someone this much

what I am lovin in november

2011-12-06T08:38:00.000-06:00

Football
Whether it's watching the 49ers {on the very rare occasion that I actually get to} or the Packers with Brin, we watch it whenever we get the chance. It's even become a routine for B and I, Sundays consist of: church, a quick stop at the grocery store, making a big meal, and relaxing with football. What will we do when the season is over?
Picture source: here

OPI nail polish in Babble Bath
Neutrals have been my theme lately {due to work and the changing of the seasons} and this is the sweetest baby pink that looks so effortless and put together. It's my fall back whenever I'm not sure to do next.
Picture source: here

Lush
I have heard so much hype about the store Lush and in these past few months I have tried out a few of the products. If you don't know Lush is sort of a more sophisticated, more organic and natural Bath & Body Works type of store and it's amazing. One of my favorites is the Buffy Body Bar {I got the 3 oz bar as a gift and totally love it}
Picture source: here

Goldfish
I have been totally obsessed with these this month. I love to have foods that I can snack on at work and these are perfect, plus they don't get your hands all cheesy dirty.
Picture source: here

New Girl
Once I heard that Zooey Deschanel was going to be in a new tv show I was instantly hooked, she is one of my favorite actresses. I just love how natural she is and isn't afraid to be herself, how can you not love her. Also she has an amazing very different voice.
Picture source: here

Matrix Biolage
I recently got my hair highlighted and cut a few inches off. With the winter drying months upon us I wanted a shampoo/conditioner that would not only be very moisturizing and good for my hair but also purchase one that smells amazing. This is my all time favorite line of hair products, just take one smell and you will see what I mean. In regular stores it is very expensive, but can be found at salons and in gift sets for a discounted price, which is how I got mine.
Picture source: here

Baking
Whether it's pies for Thanksgiving or dishes for Sunday afternoons, I have been all about baking this month. For my winter is the time for soups, casseroles, chillis, and just warming up your body with tasty foods.
Picture source: my own photo

New Samsung Gravity
So to make a long story short, I have dropped my phone at least 2 dozen times in the past 3 years that I have had it. Many of those times it has broken into 4 pieces and all I have to do is put them back together and turn it back on. Well, last month I dropped it from a little bit of a higher places then the normal 4 or so feet. This time it was about 250 feet that I dropped it from and this was the last plunge that it ever made. I almost cried but instead couldn't help but just laugh, because when I got off the ride I saw the sad scene and thought "what 'idiot' would be silly enough to drop their phone from such a height?"..... then I realized that idiot was me. The next day I got the new version of the same phone I had just put to rest the day before. It has taken a little getting used to but it serves its purpose and I am liking it, even thought I still miss my old phone :(
Picture source: here

Gingerbread Latte
There is nothing like a hot beverage to warm you up on a cold winter day and my favorite lately has been gingerbread lattes. Whether it's from Dunn Brothers, Caribou, Starbucks, or even the gingerbread coffee creamer I love them all.
Picture source: here

winter is here

2011-11-22T19:43:00.000-06:00

the view from my bedroom window

You know winter is upon us when these things happen:

- Christmas lights are starting to paint the houses in our town {including ours}

- all I want to drink is hot tea, coffee, apple cider {anything warm}

- people are hurrying around getting Christmas presents

- thanksgiving ingredients are filling our fridges, freezers, and cupboards {all 20.86 lbs of our turkey had to be put outside cuz he won't fit in our freezer}

- most of us are bundling up in scarves, mittens and jackets

- the work *snow* is in the forecast

- Christmas music is on the radio

- my foundation color {classic ivory} is too dark and I have to switch to porcelain ivory, which is the lightest foundation in this particular line, how sad is that?

- Christmas movies are being played on tv {B and I watched some of Elf the other night}

- candles are lit all around me that smell of cinnamon, leaves, pumpkin, spices

- I can't wait to spend as much time as I can all bundles up with family and friends

- we are planning our holiday celebrations

- our cat and dog are adorably fighting over the 'dog' bed in front of the fireplace {ironically the kitty normally wins}

ten on ten {november}

2011-11-11T14:33:00.001-06:00

It's been ages since I did one of these 10 pics on the 10th of the month and I remember why: I always seem to get it out a day late because I normally don't get home till late and still have to edit my pictures from that day which takes a while in itself. Anyway, if you don't know what 10 on 10 is, here is the blog that started this inspirational post once per month. What a great way to capture the moments of our every day lives.

I spent some quality time looking at flights for our trip {working on one of my 12 before 12}

We got our 1st snow this morning and I was so excited, even though it melted in a few short hours

Some might call it crazy, I call it festive, but this was the pattern on my scrub top yesterday

This is a sneak preview of my new office/reception desk at the clinic

The color that is currently on my toes

Candles burning while doing a load {more like 3} of laundry

Can you tell that my kitty was hungry last night?

ingredients for the perfect relaxation day

2011-11-09T20:53:00.000-06:00

Stress: it's a normal part of life, but how do we deal with it? While everyone might have their own ways of trying to overcome stress in their likes, I like to take a few hours and relax as much as I can away from everything. A few days ago I had the chance to have a relaxing 'spa' sort of day and here are a few ingredients that I include into my stress-releasing days.

1. starting off by cleaning my room/bathroom or any place where I will be trying to relax

2. lighting some candles {this aromatherapy Eucalyptus Spearmint one is a favorite}

3. whipping up a face mask or use a store bought one {I prefer the homemade ones because you can specialize them just how you like it, they are normally a fraction of the price, and very easy to make}

4. drawing up a hot bath

5. adding a bath bomb or part of a bubble bubble bar to create some lovely smelling bubbles {this one is from Lush}

6. enjoying the soothing smells and fun colors it emits as you soak up the moisture

7. using a scrub that exfoliates and hydrates your body {again I like the home ones, so easy to make and they have multiple uses}

8. pampering a part of you that feels over worked {I work a lot on me feet, and even though I wear tennis shoes 5 days out of the week it's still nice to have painted toes}

P.S. let me know if you want the 'recipes' for any of my masks or body scrubs

fabulous friday is here again

2011-10-28T09:08:00.002-05:00

1. When I was a kid I wanted to be a chef, own my own doggie day care center {no joke, my heart was set on it for a few years} but ultimately a mom when I grew up.

2. As an adult, my dream job would be being a loving wife & mom.

3. When I was younger I wanted to be just like my grade school teachers, Miss Pfeiffer and Mrs Bailey. They were my role models.

4. The childhood Halloween costume that I remember most was when I was Princess Jasmine, but much to my dismay my mom made me wear a turtle-neck shirt under it because it was cold. Really mom? How cold could it have been in California? I liked princesses but not the normal girly ones like Cinderella, Aurora or Snow White. I liked the more spunky/rebellious ones like Pocahontas, Ariel, and Jasmine.

5. My favorite childhood toy was baby Susie. She had blonde spiky hair {do to me always putting it up in piggy-tails} I took her every where I went. I also loved legos, and still do have my vast collection in storage.

6. The time I got into the biggest amount of trouble when I was a kid was when I "borrowed" my mom's make-up, hid in in my bathroom, and lied about it.

7. I get daily inspiration from fellow bloggers, nature, magazines, Pinterest

If you'd like to join in on the fun, hop on over to Lauren's blog and fill in your own blanks.

12 by 2012

2011-10-27T06:57:00.004-05:00

It seems that I have gotten myself into a inspiration/crafting rut as of late, and this looks like my one-way ticket right on out of it. The amazing Danni from Hello, Friend has come up with the idea to have 12 ambitious goals done by 2012. I saw this first posted on a friend's blog {Amanda} and knew it was for me. So come along and join with me, this sounds like the perfect adventure to finish out the year and get us all feeling better about our aspirations.

Here is my list of 12 by 2012:

updated: 10-27-11

bold = finished

italicized = a work in progress

{1} scrapbook the 2-inch pile of pictures that are currently sitting on my deck {started on 10.27.11}

{2} complete at least 2 projects from my new favorite book: "One-Yard Wonders" by Rebecca Yaker & Patricia Hoskins

{3} create some festive holiday cards

{4} save up money for the future, now that I have a steady job

{5} spend more quality time with my sisters {went out to eat with my older sis on 11.4.11 and had a shopping trip with my younger sis on 11.5.11}

{6} plan our trip to California {started making phone calls on 11.6.11 and I found some flights, all that's left to do is book them and plan out the details, booked the flights on 11.28.11}

{7} get back into my regular gym schedule {started back up on 11.2.11 and have continued till now}

{8} get my etsy shop up and running again {I've been on "vacation" for far too long}

{9} change up my hair stye {on 11.18.11}

{10} make a few of my Christmas gifts this year {bought some supplies for them but haven't completed them yet}

{11} buy a pair of dressy boots, I've been looking for months with no such luck {accomplished on 11.5.11, pictures will be coming soon}

{12} spend a little more time enjoying the pleasures in life {took day to relax and pamper myself on 11.4.11, seen here in this blog post}

I will also be taking pictures of each goal in progress and do a few blogs along the way to update on what's been going on. This way I will really be held accountable for these aspirations and more inspired to complete them!

a new light

2011-10-24T14:13:00.000-05:00

It feels like my life has refocused in the past few months since I started my internship at the clinic and gotten my new job. As though I'm looking through the lens of a different camera.

When someone tells me that they aren't feeling very good I automatically start asking them questions like "How long have you had your cough? Do you have a fever or chills to go along with it?" or "Where is the pain localized? Is it warm to the touch, swollen, or a different color than normal?"

It's getting a little ridiculous some days, like last week, when a dear friend informed me that she needed her asthma inhaler quite frequently I instantly started to tell her the benefits of using a spacier {you get x5-10 more medication into your lungs} see there I go again. I just can't help it because most of the patients I tell that to have no idea.

I pretty much watch only medical shows now. Ones like Grey's, House, Private Practice, {my newest addiction, thanks to my mom, who got me hooked on yet another med show} Hart of Dixie. They are totally not accurate but I don't care. I watch them for the moments when I can say "I know what that is" or "They are totally doing that procedure wrong." or the moments when a patient is showing signs of cystic fibrosis or an aortic dissection and I guess it before the doctors do. What can I say, I'm obsessed.

I can't even imagine how I would be if I went on to become a physician's assistant or a doctor. I try to not bring it home with me but when I get to assist in a lumbar puncture or assist while a doctor stitches up a guys face I can't help but bring that home to tell my family {without violating HIPAA of course}.

I see things in a new light. I medical light. When I see an ambulance drive by my mind instantly starts racing with things like: what type of medical issue are they racing to, or which hospital are they running through red lights to get to, or how bad are the patients injuries. Is there blood every where or are the injuries internal. I know it probably sounds nerdy {and morbid} but those are the things that run through my head where before it was more like: I hope they are ok!

a very fall-ish friday

2011-10-21T18:34:00.003-05:00

1. Nothing says fall like taking a walk/drive among the changing leaves.

2. My favorite autumn tradition is apple picking.

3. My favorite fall treat is anything pumpkin. I am obsessed with pumpkin breads, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin coffee, pumpkin bars, pumpkin pie {I think you get the picture.

4. Fall makes me think of getting cozy on the couch because I am a totally sissy when it comes to cold weather and at the beginning of winter I am more of a wimp than ever.

5. Autumn free form work association, go: scarves, apple cider, leaves, boots, tea, red, orange, yellow, pine cones, pumpkins, brown, cinnamon, crisp apples....

6. My go-to outfit in the fall is a skirt with leggings, boots, and a scarf.

7. My favorite fall holiday is {Halloween or Thanksgiving} is Thanksgiving. There really is no comparison for me. Don't get me wrong, I love Halloween, but to me there's nothing better than spending the whole day watching the parade, spending time with family, cooking, drinking and eating all day, and giving thanks for all the blessings that have been graciously given to us.

sick supplies

2011-10-14T17:21:00.000-05:00

When you are running around and keeping busy with life as usual, taking a day off seems like a pretty good thing. Taking a day off to sit on the couch, eat soup, and watch movies doesn't seem too bad, pretty good infact, even if you had to be sick to get onto that couch for the day,

This is how I had felt for the past few weeks when a few people around me were sick with colds. I thought if only I had an excuse to take a break, and this week I got what I was asking for, I got that dreaded cold but with none of the "benefits". No lying on the couch and sleeping all day, no watching my favorite shows on tv, no diet of saltines and soup. No there is no such thing with a 8-5 job, the days of just staying home from school are long gone. The real world is here to kick me when I'm down again.

When I get a cold it always starts off with the painful and dry sore throat and eventually moves to the head/sinus congestion and finally the cough and chest congestion. This is how it goes for me at least, so according to my "sickness schedule" I still have a day or 2 to finish out my first cold of the season. Gotta love the fresh batch of fall colds.

Even though I couldn't spend my days on the couch and eat nothing but soup and juice I still made a run to the store to get "sicky supplies" and stocked my drawers at work for the winter months ahead. Have you gotten sick yet? If so, you have my truest condolences.

so thankful it's friday

2011-10-07T07:58:00.006-05:00

You can find my linkup with the lovely Lauren here.

1. Something popular that I can't stand/just don't "get" is buying extremely expensive trendy clothes just for their labels. People are just crazy for fashion.

2. Something unpopular that I secretly love is taking a time out and spending a little time by myself. Life is so busy, but a little quality time to relax and calm down after a crazy week will always recharge my batteries. In fact, that's what today is about.

3. When I've had a bad day I come home, change in to a comfy pair of sweats, take off my make-up, and either snuggle up with a blanket and a favorite TV show or hop on my computer to blog.

4. I prefer sweet drinks to anything bitter any day.

5. Something that makes me nervous is driving on twisty roads that are really steep. Those ones where on one side of the road the hill practically goes straight up and on the other side is a 10,000 feet drop to your death. {a little dramatic this morning or what?}

6. Something worth fighting for is love. Whether it's between friends, relatives, or your significant other. I would do anything for those I love.

7. When people think of me, I hope they think that I am a caring, fun person who is very optimistic and loves life. I hope they see mow much I love my Savior and how much I love them.

fall splendor

2011-10-06T23:06:00.000-05:00

It's memories like these that stick with you.
It's photographs like these that you look back on years later and remember how much fun life can be.

It's friends like these that make life more colorful.
It's days like these that warm your heart.

It's smiles like these that keep the laughter rolling.
It's adventures like these that add life to an ordinary day.

It's moments like these that live on with the simple click of a button.
It's times like these that we will never forget.

a few of my faves

2011-10-05T21:25:00.002-05:00

I always thought that the twin cities had much more to offer than the more well known placesever since I started dating B, I have learned first hand that that is true.

These are just a few of my favorite places so far from the past few months:

- the expansive Canterbury horse racing track

- the streets of the Minnesota state fair {biggest fair I've ever been to}

- the many bays that lake Minnetonka has to offer
- Brit's Pub with lawn bowling on the roof
- the one-square-mile city of Excelsior, a unique blend of old and new with it's antique shops, a theater, restaurants, a B&B inn, one of our favorite coffee places: Dunn Bros Coffee
- the breathtaking Minnehaha waterfalls

Ourlatest adventure took place a few weekends ago when we explored the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. This expansive land features: "more than 1,000 acres of magnificent gardens, model landscapes, and natural areas-from woodlands and wetlands to prairie-with extensive collections of northern-hardy plants."{quote taken right from their website because I couldn't have said it any better}. I couldn't help but share a few of my favorite pictures from that amazing September day.

what I am lovin in september

2011-10-03T21:54:00.003-05:00

It's a few days late but here are a few either old or new things I've gotten to try this month and fallin in love with.

Essie Nail Polish in Big Splender
This is a perfect color for the season and right on with the trends for fall. It's a pretty raspberry dark pink, too bad I can't wear nail polish to work.
photo source: here

Cinnamon Toast Crunch
I don't think I could pick a favorite cereal, but this is definitely on my top list. There's nothing better then a nice big bowl of this amazing cereal while watching the sun rise and light up the sky.
photo source: here

Bath & Body Works Candle in Leaves
Fall is full of delightful scents, and you wanna know my new favorite? You guessed it, the Leaves candle by B&B. It may smell good in the jar, but it's even better when the scent fills up your house with ingredients like: toasted cinnamon, golden nectar, mulled cider, freshly harvested berries.
photo source: here

Cortland Apples
Never thought that I'd like any apple better then honey crisp, but one of my girlfriends led me to the discovery of Cortlands which are crisp and tart at a apple orchard we visited on Friday. I've made applesauce, apple crisp, apple cider, what else can I make with all these apples?
photo source: my photo

Maurices Dark Brown Moccasins
A few years ago when these became popular I vowed that I would never buy them. Not really sure why, but I was convinced they weren't for me. It wasn't until a few weeks ago that I found them at Maurices and I changed my mind once I felt jsut how comfortable they really are.
photo source: here

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte
I know I've said this many times before, but it really doesn't get any better than this. If you are fans like me, give the new Salted Carmel Mocha a try, you will never be the same!
photo source: here

Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush in Soft Plum
Another amazing product by Marbelline strikes my favorite list. It's the perfect fall plum color.
photo source: here

The O.C.
It's so Brian's fault for this one. He got me hooked and now I cant' give it up. It just brings back so many good memories. And I got season 1 & 2 for 1/2 the normal price and they shipped them straight to my house.
photo source: here

Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat
There's a reason why I've never put a top nail polish coat on here before: they weren't ever any good until I discovered this one. I tend to paint my nails and then realize that there are about 10 things on my 'to-do list' so this is perfect for me. It dries your existing paint and makes it nice and shinny, seriously Sally Hansen how do you do it?
photo source: here

it's finally friday

2011-09-30T18:19:00.002-05:00

If you want to see the source of my Friday fill-ins, check out Lauren and join the Friday club!

1. My current obsession is the O.C. It's a blast from my past, in my high school days.

2. Chocolate makes me happy.

3. My greatest strength is in my Savior. He is my ultimate rock.

4. Stress, self-doubt, and thinking I'm not good enough are my greatest weaknesses.

5. My life is amazing. My life is nothing where I thought it would be, but that's a good thing. The plans I had for my life have been pushed aside and a much better life than I could have ever expected has come along. I feel extremely blessed.

6. In high school I was so happy. I think I took life for granted thinking things like "could life be any more stressful" or "I can't wait to be older with a real job". I was blissful ignorant, but weren't we all in high school?

7. When I'm super tired I get a little loopy. It must run in my family cuz my aunt and mother are the same way.

a whole new world

2011-09-27T17:52:00.003-05:00

Of course it couldn't be a true graduation without the traditional/cheesy parent shot.

This past week certainly has been a monumental one. I not only graduated with my associates degree as a medical assistant {on Thursday}, but I started my new job {yesterday}.My parents/grandparents threw me and my sister a graduation party. Even though my sister won't be graduating till December, it's not too often that we get to see my grandparents from Cali so we had a combined celebration.

My new job has been an overwhelming amount of change and new experiences, but I am just taking baby steps and thriving off the new energy. While there is so much information flowing around me, all I have to remember is that I will eventually know what I'm doing so why stress about it. Why stress about something that I know will just take time and some hard work.

I know that the only way I've made it through these past few weeks and the only way I'll make it through these next few weeks is believing these 2 things:
1) everything will work out for the best
2) trust in the Lord because he has a plan for everything

I also got to cross out 2 items from my own personal bucket list this week {graduating from globe as a MA & graduating from college with honors}, but there are still so many more.

My goal for this next year: to accomplish half a dozen of those aspirations. Let's see what these next months hold....

lets fill in some blanks

2011-09-16T08:19:00.000-05:00

Hop on over to Lauren over at the little things we do, to see the inspiration for this weeks fill in the blank Friday.

1. You should always take time to pray. Prayer is one of the most powerful things there is.

2. Laughter make(s) the world a happier place to be.

3. I can hardly wait for the holidays. Winter holidays are my favorite!

4. Saturday is my favorite day of the week.

5. Something totally dumb and ridiculous that I love are my tv shows {that start back up in the fall}, guilty as charged.

6. If I could, I would travel the world and see the amazing sights that I've always dreamed about.

7. I rather like eating breakfast food for supper.

big news

2011-09-14T13:27:00.001-05:00

At roughly 1:45 yesterday I went to the clinic to take a drug test. Normally this isn't a task that I would enjoy, but for me it was a blessing that I couldn't be more happy about. You see, the test was for a drug screening because I got a JOB!! I real 8-5 job. I went for an interview, they called my references, considered their options, and asked how I want my name spelled on my name tag. Through the shaking and the sweat that was pouring down forehead I excitedly accepted the position as a MA {medical assistant} at Marshfield clinic. I start in 1 + 1/2 weeks {the 26th} and I couldn't be more excited. I was completely convinced that I wouldn't get a job this soon and telling myself that it might take a few months before I find a position. I never expected that the Lord would bless me with this type of job, and even before I graduate.

I feel like the sky is the limit, just like this picture of mine that I took over this past season. School has been a challenging process, but it's so exciting to see the hard work pay off and to be starting my career {or "big girl job" as my cousin calls it}. I can not thank you all enough for the love and encouragement that you all have given me, whether through my blog or in person. It truly means the world to me.

changing of the seasons

2011-09-12T16:25:00.001-05:00

Just as summer is slipping through our fingers the next season seems to be embracing us with open arms. Even though it's not technically autum till the 23rd, I can already see the effects of this season as it washes over us:

-football is back on tv
-the trees are starting to change colors
-apples are in season and ready to be turned into pies, cider, caramel apples
-I'm starting to pull some of my winter clothes from storage
-it's getting cooler at night
-jeans and sweatshirts feel great again, instead of the farthest thing from my mind
-scarves and mittens don't seem too far off anymore
-we will soon be craving hot tea and soup

Brian and I celebrated one of our favorite seasons by taking our 1st trip to an apple orchard and wine fest. I think we'll have to make this a tradition of ours. We did a little wine tasting, apple picking and later made an apple crisp, with a little whippy it was melt-in-your-mouth amazing! I love the idea of starting our own traditions each season. There are so many memories that we have already created, I can't wait to see what's in store for us next.

exposed and nervous with a touch of excitement

2011-09-06T22:00:00.001-05:00

Some of you may be wondering, "I thought you didn't want to tell anyone about this?" and yes, this was my thinking till about 2 pm this afternoon, untill I came home and started preparing for my first real interview.

I've been on interviews before, but this is different. My 1st ever interview was for a grocery store where most everyone interviewing around me were wearing jeans and looked relaxed {I of course, was in a skirt and shaking like a leaf in the wind}. My second interview consisted of kicking back on the flood, of the day care where I currently work, talking to my future manager as if we were friends already.

I've had a few others since then, but this is my first real interview, for my first real full-time, 40 hour a week, structured, 3 weeks of vacation per year, job. To say that I have a few butterflies is an understatement, because did I mention this position is in the department and place that I have been hoping for: Pediatrics department in the Marshfield clinic, in Eau Claire.

I originally thought I'd keep it to myself and avoid disappointment, but what is this blog for anyway? Is it always going to be about the happy aspects of life? Is it always going to be about the things that are 100% certain in life? No, this is not a blog through rose covered glasses, this is the real me, exposed and nervous with a touch of excitement. I'm not expecting to get this amazing job right out of the gate, but it's a great opportunity to be able to even interview for what I am aiming for in my new career.

So at 4:25 tomorrow I will be walking down that long hallway. That long hallway I take every day, but instead of taking a right at the department where I'm interning I will continue on {in this outfit} to my interview.

I just hope I don't trip in my heels {I've been known to do that from time to time}.

inspired

2011-09-03T12:16:00.000-05:00

It's shaping up around here as I hit the craft room with ribbon, stamps, and my head filled with ideas. I decided to start at the basics for getting back to my crafting ways. So I started off with something that I can dive into and right back out {due to all of my many interruptions lately} in a number of minutes. Card making seemed to be my answer as I had just been to an amazing card party hosted by B's mom. I was inspired and it fit pretty darn well because my birthday was right around the corner and I could see thank you cards in my near future.

There are so many projects running through my mind that I'm attempting to produce, I can't wait to see what's next!

fill in the blank friday

2011-09-02T17:01:00.001-05:00

The always lovely Lauren is here to fill our Fridays with a few unfinished thoughts.

1. One thing that is completely superfluous, but that I could never give up is the amount of movies I own and the tv shows that I watch.

2. Being the center of attention makes me feel awkward.

3. I can't imagine life without, LOVE.

4. Ritz bits and cheez-its are my favorite snack.

5. Lately I've been totally in the crafting mood with almost no time for it. It always seems to strike me when I really have no time in my day.

6. If at first you don't succeed, never give up. The Lord has a plan and everything will work out for the best.

7. Fall is overwhelmingly amazing. I love nothing more than the changing of the seasons and fall is pure bliss in my eyes. Apple picking, scarves, changing of the leaves, sweatshirts and jeans, cuddling up with a book, pumpkins and gourds, making soup, cuddling up with a loved one.

what I am lovin in august

2011-08-31T20:04:00.015-05:00

These past few months have flown by and with them, have my time to fit in one of my favorite parts of the blogging month. I truly enjoy sharing some of my most frequent items of the month, so here I am again to share a little more about my life.

Maybelline Dream Matte Powder
I discovered this through a friend and have used nothing else since. I have tried out quite a few different powders, but if you also suffer from oily skin with that hot summer weather you might what to give this a try.

Stethoscope
I am at the end of my internship {only 4 more days, but who's counting} and I have used this each and every day. It has become second nature to me and even feels strange when it is not around my neck.

Popsicles
If you know me at all, you know that I am totally obsessed with popsicle. Just about any popsicle will do {except grape} but my favorite are the real fruit ones with the real chunks of juicy fruit inside. It will be sad to see the cold weather come because I normally loose the desire for this particular summer treat.

Febreze
I like things to smell fresh and clean, and febreze is something that I am never without. I use it all over the house love nothing more than finishing a clean room with a few sprays of freshening febreze.

LOVE
Love has been in the air this month, in more then one way. This month alone I have gone to 4 weddings and know of quite a few other couples who will be tying the knot soon.

Fans
At this moment I have 4 fans, one in each of the rooms that I commonly use. I have to say that my favorite is my new little mini fan, on my desk, that keeps me cool in my new craft room.

Ice Cream
I sometimes feel that I consume more ice cream then anyone around me {well except for my dad and friend Katie}. I ate my share over the summer and I always am craving it, even in the bitterly cold winter months.

Maybelline EyeStudio Gel Eyeliner
Don't worry I am not getting paid my maybelline or anything, I just like many of their products this one in particular. I have been really into the gel eyeliners and this is my favorite one with a respectable price. Glides on like a dream and stays all day.

Iced Coffee
I have been drinking coffee like it's going out of style. I mean it, I can't remember the last time I relied this heavily on caffeine. It probably doesn't help that there is a Coffee Ground in my clinic, feeding my addiction but I don't care. It's only for 1 more week, then the job hunting really kicks into action. With the changing of the seasons, my new addiction pretty soon will be pumpkin spice lattes. Have you ever tried one? If not you must, they are heaven in a cup!

celebrate

2011-08-27T09:32:00.004-05:00

A few busy days ago was the celebration of me turning 21 years of age. This year has been filled with more than I could have even imagined. It seems impossible that so much was packed in, in so little time but here I am 1 year later, with practically a whole different life.

Just a few things that the past year has had in store for me:
- learned so much about who I am in this world
- took more then half a dozen trips, whether it was a fun road trip or a plane flight to another country
- finished up my med schooling to become a Medical Assistant
- been blessed enough to meet an amazing guy who has forever changed my life
- grown closer to my Lord and leaning on him for my ultimate strength

I have loved the past year, but I have a little feeling that this next year will be filled with even more surprises and amazing experiences. Just a prediction....

fill in the blank friday

2011-08-26T22:40:00.008-05:00

Thanks to Lauren over at The Little Things We Do, I'm back with another fill in the blank on this beautiful friday.

1. One of life's most simple pleasures is sleeping in on my day off. I got to experience that this morning for the 1st time in months and it was amazing.

2. To drive near people who don't signal, weave in and out of other cars, and cut other drivers off makes me want to punch someone.

3. I like to see the changing of seasons because, we get to experience the atmosphere completely change in a matter of weeks.

4. Keister is such a funny word.

5. If I had to choose one beauty product to use for the rest of eternity it would be mascara. I love finishing off my make-up with some mascara, it makes such a difference.

6. I'm happy that it's the weekend. They are my favorite days of the week!

7. I would never say never. I love trying new things, taking risks and going on new adventures.

moments to remember

2011-08-23T12:18:00.009-05:00

It's weekends like this, where words simply don't do it justice.

very own crafting room

2011-08-09T19:46:00.001-05:00

It's always been a dream of mine to have my very own room entirely devoted to my left brain. A room that is filled with my raw materials that could be transformed into something amazing. A few weeks ago this dream began to take form and I was well on my way to my very own crafting room.The past few evenings after work have been spent doing hours of cleaning, vacuuming, and moving around furniture. The other night I made more than a dozen trips up and down 2 flights of stairs carrying many heavy armfuls of scrap booking/crafting supplies up to my new room. This room used to be my sister's room, but she moved out a few months ago and I have been blessed enough to turn it into my very own crafting room.

There isn't really time at the present to start any projects, but soon I will be hard at work with: scrap booking, card making, a few sewing projects, and some other ideas I have been anxiously awaiting to try.

new role

2011-08-04T19:24:00.001-05:00

Intern, girl with the stickers and treats, medical assistant, errand runner, mean person with the shots, nurse, new blood in the clinic, the vital taker. These are all names that have been describing me for the last 3 weeks as a Medical Assistant intern.

I can't even describe how different it is to be on the other side of the books and out in the real world interacting with patients. You never really know how you will do with tasks like injections, till you are holding a little girl down {who is screaming bloody murder} with everything you have to keep her safe and still, from movement that could hurt her.

I never thought I'd be able to handle a few things that I've already witnessed but I am enjoying it more every day, with the new responsibilities that are being given to me. I have been in family practice, and now am moving on to urgent care next week. I sort of know what to expect from shadowing a few days in a different urgent care unit, but I'm sure it will have it's own set of surprises.

It has been such an amazing opportunity for me and I would encourage anyone to seek out an internship. It is so worth your time and it really gets you into your field without the added pressure of a real job. I am still surprised some days that I landed myself in the medical field, because 5 years ago I would have just laughed at you if you told me were I would be now. It's moments like these were we have to remember: the planes we have for our own lives really never measure up to what God has in store for us.

trip to Cali

2011-07-19T16:31:00.019-05:00

I am back from my 3 weeks of vacationing....to jump right into my internship 2 days later. I have already completed my third day and my head is spinning. I have a feeling it will continue to keep on spinning till I am done in 9 weeks time and graduate in September. There will be much more on that later, but now for a little catch-up. Last week was spent in the sunshine, in my home state California and lets just say I went picture crazy. I had my camera out at every possible moment and it is now resting in my camera bag from its week of being very over worked.
We spent the week as tourists, visiting some of our favorite cities like Sunnyvale to San Francisco, from San Jose to Monterey. While we did get to see many of our friends, there simply wasn't time to do 1/2 of what I had on my imaginary list. I'm sure there will be a trip coming up soon where will be able to enjoy much more of our favorite places.One thing I miss tremendously about California is the people. Both sets of Grandparents live there along with dozens of friends!It's been years since I visited the Monterey Bay {not Bat Aquarium Brian} Aquarium and I must say, it has changed since I was there last. Even though there are new exhibits or expanded walls, this place is full of memories from my childhood that will never change.How often can we say "Lets go have a picnic on the ocean beach!" It's been way too long!It was an action filled vacation and one that I will never forget. Visiting all my friends and family makes me want to visit even more. There is only one other state where I can say words like these when I get off the plane "It feels good to be home!"

am I dreaming?

2011-07-09T03:46:00.001-05:00

In some of my posts for the last month or so I have been making a few hints about the new guy in my life. I also made a few promises to tell you some details about who has been making me over the moon happy, so here I go.

Over a month ago I went to Arise and Shine, the 20s and 30s retreat in northern MN. I went into the weekend excited to see many of my friends and ready to dig into my bible and be strengthened by my Savior. What I was not expecting was for someone to catch my eye and instantly have my curiosity.

I was certainly not expecting to meet someone who would forever change my life, and I know this because I didn't bring the type attire that I would normally bring if I wanted to look my best. He was seeing me in my sweats and sport t-shirts and still decided to stick around. He's brave.

From the first night we seemed to have a connection and I felt at ease around him. The next day was a whirlwind of so many people, lots of coffee, so many encouraging words from our Lord, some water fun, and many games. The games lasted into the late hours of the night {well technically the early morning} and we ended the night with a trip out on to the glassy lake for a few hours of uninterrupted talking. We talked about anything and everything from jobs to grade school to how many things we really have in common.

By this point it was evident that this was more than just a little crush. The next day was filled with even more caffeine and so many more moments that turned into amazing memories. We listened to some amazing speeches that were given by amazing Christians, sharing their intimate details about fears in our lives. It was then that I realized one of my fears. I was fearful that this was all a dream and that this new found bliss would be ripped from me. All I had to do is look into those blue eyes and any fear that was swirling around in my head, disappeared.

Since then we have had some amazing dates and met each other's families and friends, which couldn't have gone better. After getting back from a weekend over in his neck of the woods, every time it gets more and more challenging to say good-bye.

I have never dated someone so similar to me....he makes me feel complete. He makes me so unbelievably ecstatic and I can only hope to make him as happy as he has made me.

It takes a life altering weekend like this, to completely humble you and to know that our planned out paths are laughed at by the Lord. He has so many better unexpected joys ahead of us, we can't even begin to imagine.

I still wake up and think that I am dreaming most days.

Someone pinch me.

fill in the blank friday #8

2011-07-08T17:37:00.005-05:00

1. My plans this summer include for those details, see this post.

2. The best summer I ever had was the one that I am presently having. It's been the best summer I've ever had and it's not even half over yet. I can't wait to see what else is in store!

3. Summer is a time for swimming and barbecues, tank-tops and sunscreen, popsicle and spending time at the pool, flower dresses and boating across the lake.

4. My favorite summer food is popsicles and ice cream, hands down!

5. The best way to quench a summer thirst is with a tall glass of lemonade or lemonade.

6. My summer uniform consists of tank-tops, summer dresses & skirts, swimsuits, a nice tan.

7. The best things about summer are spending as much time outside as possible, relaxing in the sun with a good book, and enjoying all the joys that this particular season brings!

summer vaca

2011-07-08T15:37:00.015-05:00

My life has been a little to busy as of late to devote time to my blog. This is a sad reality, but the truth. For the last month or so {ever since the summer season started} I have been pulled in so many directions, from school and friends, to family and vacations, to road trips and so many other activities. And this is not that post to say that it is all calming down. This is the updating post, which is a bridge between the kayos. Bright and early tomorrow I will be boarding a plane....destination sunny California. It has been way too long since I visited my home state and I can't wait. Before I get too ahead of myself, here is a little update of where I've been this past couple of weeks.

Last week was spent on a family vacation in northern MN. We rented a cabin and had the ideal vacation: minimal activity and maximum amounts of relaxing, just what we all needed to recharge our batteries and refresh our worn out bodies. Here are just a few of the over 300 pictures that I captured.

fill in the blank friday #7

2011-06-24T09:52:00.009-05:00

1. The last thing I ate was a banana, it's a super food full of potassium!

2. The next thing I'd like to eat is coffee, yes I know you don't eat coffee, but I am pretty sleepy this morning and in need of a little pick-me-up.

3. The best things in life are the ones that we aren't expected. That has been the theme of my life as of late, which I will expand on I promise.

4. Something that makes me supremely and utterly happy is the sunshine. I am never happier then when I'm outside enjoying the beautiful warming rays of sun that summer always brings.

5. Sports are always in one form or another in my house. We are avid 49er fans and I love watching any sort of sport, from soccer to swimming I love it all.

6. I miss {big surprise} the new guy in my life. He's a few hours away but I will be seeing him tomorrow. Pictures are coming, I promise.

7. Right now I am in the process of packing for my weekend, making food for our camping trip, packing for our camping vacation, cleaning the upstairs and a million other little things. It's nice to take a little breather to do my favorite thing on Fridays.

this week....

2011-06-23T00:13:00.004-05:00

- enjoying the magical scents of summer
- soaking up the amazing sunny weather when it comes out from behind the clouds
- finishing up my finals
- taking a little trip to the cities
- celebrating being done with school forever
- catching up with friends
- doing laundry and packing for our family vacation
- hanging out with my cousins
- randomly helping with little camp errands
- getting a wonderful visit from a very special guy {there will be more on him }
- working and doing a little babysitting
- getting my sister's room presentable
- experiencing one of the best summer thunder storms we have had in years
- getting a much needed hair trim for the summer

dad's day

2011-06-19T10:08:00.006-05:00

What Is A Dad?

A dad is someone who
wants to catch you before you fall
but instead picks you up,
brushes you off,
and lets you try again.

A dad is someone who
wants to keep you from making mistakes
but instead lets you find your own way,
even though his heart breaks in silence
when you get hurt.

A dad is someone who
holds you when you cry,
scolds you when you break the rules,
shines with pride when you succeed,
and has faith in you even when you fail....
- Author Unknown

fill in the blank friday #6

2011-06-17T16:12:00.010-05:00

It's been a nice little break from the blogging world this past week but I am excited to be back in action. I took a little break after my long stretch of posts, but I've missed the consistency.

1. The last movie I saw was probably Life as We Know It, that is one of my favorite movies and I don't think I could ever get sick of it!

2. I want to travel. Yes I want to see it all some day, but right now all I want is to travel a little to the west....to the twin cities.

3. Surprises are my favorite. I love being spontaneously surprised by something amazing more than just about anything!

4. The best accessory is a smile. You can wear the latest fashions or have the funnest accessories, but nothing beats the addition of a bright smile.

5. My favorite warm drink is a latte with whip cream.

6. My favorite cold drink is a root-beer float.

7. Currently loving my fan. It's been a little toasty here and I would not be making it through the night without it. I also get addicted to the sound so that puts me right to sleep.

a weekend to remember

2011-06-13T01:10:00.019-05:00

About this time last year I was at this very same place {Camp Jim} but for a very different reason. I was a counselor at a kids camp and the atmosphere was very different, as you can see from the picture below.
This weekend had a very different crowd of people. I was back at Camp Jim for a 20s and 30s retreat. There is so much to say about this past weekend, but I can't even find the words to describe it.
It was a whirlwind of amazing encouragement with fellow believers, lots of time in the sun, boating on the lake, digging into out bibles and a few surprises thrown in.

I didn't take as many pictures as I would have liked {there were other things on my mind} but it was one of those amazing weekends that you only wish would happen but never thought you actually would. There were so many amazing friends to reconnect with and such good memories to take away from a weekend like this!

30 day blogging venture: Day 30

2011-06-09T09:36:00.008-05:00

Day 30: a photograph of yourself today + three good things that have happened in the past 30 days
The past 30 days has been a whirlwind of events, and it only gets crazier from here on out! That leads me to #1: a lovely trip to my friend's birthday party in Iowa with a dear friend. #2: it has finally turned warm, and for me that is the ultimate present of spring #3: I have realized how truly blessed that I am and how excited I am about my future. I know there is much in store for me and I can't wait to see where my life will lead!

30 day blogging venture: Day 29

2011-06-08T09:09:00.001-05:00

Day 29: something you could never get tired of doingWhether I'm babysitting, at work, or volunteering with them I love kids. I was one of those little girls that carried around her babies and dolls everywhere so I don't think it surprises anyone that I work at a place with lots of kids.
Even though there are the days when I get frustrated or completely exhausted, I don't think I could ever get tired of kids. Maybe I say that because I'm not a mom now, but eventually I can't wait to have some of my own.

30 day blogging venture: Day 28

2011-06-07T22:01:00.001-05:00

Day 28: your favorite movie

This is a tough one. Not going to lie I love watching movies, from action thrillers, to romantic comedies, to bloody medical mysteries. I love them all, well except the really scary disturbing movies, I really don't need any more reasons to not sleep well at night. I already have plenty of those. Anyway out of all of those movies that I love there is one series that can never be touched. There is one set of movies that you just can't compare to any others and I think many others will agree with me. Any guesses?

Well if you guessed Star Wars at first you would have been very close {my second favorite series} but no, for me The Lord of the Rings steals the #1 spot. These movies have a way of pulling my into a world of their own filled with their own languages, people, way of life, culture, race, customs....

It is a whole world of its self and I am always eager to enter into its land of fantasy.

30 day blogging venture: Day 27

2011-06-06T07:02:00.001-05:00

Day 27: a picture of you last year and now and how have you changed since then?

Taken last year on my graduation day from Immanuel Lutheran College:Taken last month with my one of my girly friends:If you didn't notice the 1st difference between these pictures is my hair color. My natural hair color is a dark blond color, so I'm about between these two colors, naturally.

This past year has certainly been a year of change. As I talked about in this post I have been through some ups and downs, but have come out of this past year stronger.

Academically, my life has done a complete 180. I graduated with my Associated degree from Immanuel and started into the medical field in July. This past year has been a whirlwind of learning a whole new language because that's the best way to describe the medical field. It is certainly something so different that I have never experienced before.

Being in a new school has really opened up my eyes and stretched me farther than I thought possible. Even though there were a few days when I wanted to give up, here I am with 3 weeks to go. 3 weeks of school left and I am done. It feels so good to know that I am almost done with school forever!

There have been so many other changes from my circle of friends, to my household, to the atmosphere around me. Change can be hard sometimes but it will only change more frequently as we get older. This is the time for that. This is the time for growth and new experiences. The time of exploring and new adventures. Even though sometimes I get a little nervous or frustrated that I don't know what is coming up next in my life, it's all about trusting that God has a real plan for our lives.

30 day blogging venture: Day 26

2011-06-05T14:12:00.001-05:00

Day 26: a photo of somewhere you’ve been to

One of my favorite places that I've been is England. I visited my sister for 2 weeks when she lived over there for school and loved every minute of it!

These are just a few of the things that we got to see:
: Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey
: Jane Austin's home
: Beg Ben and the London Eye : Pemberley from the new Pride and Prejudice
: platform 9 3/4 from Harry Potter
: Oxford University {on graduation day}
: where they filmed the Great Hall also from the famous Harry Potter

30 day blogging venture: Day 25

2011-06-05T13:21:00.009-05:00

Day 25: what’s in your purse?

Yes, I'm a little late with this post but the past 48 hours have been a little crazy {to put it simply}. So anyway here is my summer purse. I got this a few seasons ago from American Eagle and thought I was crazy for getting a purse with so much white on it. Surprisingly I havn't gotten it dirty or even had to wash it yet. Prety impressive for me.
This content of my purse changes a little from week to week, but here are my basics that I normally keep in here.
- car keys
- wallet {from Maurices} and RCU checkbook
- a few coffee hard candies that I found in the bottom of my purse
- a few beauty rush lip glosses
- a little jewelry box with a few pairs of earnings for traveling
- a country mix cd
- mini first aid kit
- a compact and hair ties {I think every girl has a few of those floating in her purse}
- my lovely phone
- tylenol bottle
- a little pouch filled with miscellaneous things {pens, chap stick, pencils, gum}

30 day blogging venture: Day 24

2011-06-03T06:02:00.004-05:00

Day 24: a photo of something that means a lot to you
Ever since I was a little girl I have always loved animals from fish and birds to dogs, bunnies and cats. These are my 2 little critters. We have a dog {Heidi} and kitty {Jackson}. I never though animals could have so much personality, but these 2 certainly have their own.

One the 1st day of Jackson's arrival he barely weighted enough to move the hand on the scale and Heidi was terrified. She wouldn't go near him, but after a few years they have become pretty good friends. They seem to bond the most in the winter when fighting over the same fireplace, unless Jackson steals the dog's bed {that is what's going on in the picture above}.

While they do take a lit of work, they are rewarding and the best friends you could ever wish for to greet you when you come home or snuggle with at night.

30 day blogging venture: Day 23

2011-06-02T17:27:00.001-05:00

Day 23: 15 facts about you

- I have a few nicknames: Em, Emmy, Emma, Ace, Emmie, Emmaline, Mally {from a 2 year old who couldn't say Emily when he was little}
- I work at a day care and love it
- spring is the best season in my opinion
- sun cream is one of the best smells in the world
- I am deathly afraid of bugs and more importantly arachnids
- summer thunder storms are the best
- I like just about any type of music {country, punk, rock, alternative}
- I want to travel more than almost anything
- I love puddle jumping like a little kid
- I am really bad with cars, I can't change my oil or anything
- my hair is naturally a dark blond color but is currently brown
- I love anything in bright colors like yellow or lime green
- cooking/baking, taking a drive, or walking relaxes me after a stressful day
- I love eating the spicy foods that make your eyes water
- I am a total California girl at heart!

what I'm lovin in may

2011-06-02T16:57:00.004-05:00

Summer is the theme for this month. Even though it's not officially here, it sure feels like it and it shows in what I've loved this month!
Slatkin & Company Peach Bellini Candle
This candle is the perfect summer fragrance. I normally don't go for peach but the description {a light, delicate blend of white peach, sweet orange peel and yellow mandarin, finished with jasmine and sweet black currant } doesn't do it justice.

Powder Palette Multi-Colored Bronzer
This is my new favorite bronzer. Any sort of bronzers/blushes that have the multi-colored combination instantly grabs my interest. This also has a matte finish, so it's great for contouring the face.

Essie Nail Polish
I have heard some pretty positive comments about this particular nail polish but it wasn't until this month that I tried out my first bottle. I must say that I am a new fan. The color glided on like a dream with hardly and streaks, dried fast, and hasn't shipped yet.

Johnson's Baby Shampoo
Let me just say that I love the smell of this stuff. I have bought a few bottles of this shampoo and I never get sick of the smell. This is the most gentle shampoo ever and it's perfect for cleaning make-up brushes as well.

American Idol
Yes, I have been rather addicted to this show this month. It had me hooked when they made the top 20. Thsi season seemed to be much better than last year, maybe it's because I had a little more time to watch it and not so worried about Medical Terminology or A & P classes.

Quaker Oatmeal Square Cereal
One of my all time favorites! I saw it at target and I just couldn't pass it up.

Country Music
Ever time the seasons change I seem to be listening to a different type of music. For my summer is the time for rolling down my windows and listening to country music.

Sunflower Seeds
Baseball season is in full swing {did you catch that pun} and that means sunflower seeds. There are so many different types, but for me I just prefer the original.

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer
Now that summer it here I can't wait to get a little tan. This is the perfect lotion to jump start that tan and give you an extra little glow.

30 day blogging venture: Day 22

2011-06-01T21:24:00.005-05:00

Day 22: a letter to someone who has hurt you recently
This is not a letter to any person. This is to pain and suffering itself. {deep, I know}

I have been very blessed in my lifetime: I have a loving family who is my ultimate support system, all of my grandparents are well and happy, I have amazing friends who will never know how thankful of them I am, I have a wonderful home filled with more that I ever need....but that doesn't mean that there hasn't been twists and turns along the way. That doesn't mean that my life is perfect.

There have also been many struggles that seemed to overcome me in my lifetime. I have lost many people that I love by either leaving this world, or by choosing to not be a part of my life anymore. The latter has been the most difficult for me to overcome. Some times that pain and suffering come in the form of a falling out with a friend or even worse a break up. Friends can mend anything, but a break up leaves you empty inside. This quote summarizes it best: 'Once there was no 2 hearts so open, no feelings so in harmony. Now we are strangers, worse than strangers for we may never become acquainted. It is perpetual estrangement.'

While pain and suffering have certainly entered my life, they do not define it. They do not define me. I won't let them.

Through these trials and tribulations I have come through them a different person. I have fought the loneliness, the sadness, the resentment, the anger to realize just how wonderful life can be. The world holds so much joy and who are we to not enjoy all that we have been blessed with.

In a strange way I am thankful for all of the hard times that I've endured. It's all the bad days, sleepless nights, and buckets of ice cream that seem to put the joys of life into perspective.

30 day blogging venture: Day 21

2011-05-31T08:23:00.002-05:00

Day 21: a photo of something that makes you happy
I couldn't just put up one picture when it comes to my friend, so there you have it. These are just a few of my amazing friends who know me very well and still seem to stick around. Some days I don't know what they're thinking, but most of the time I am just very grateful to have such spectacular people around me. Without people like this in my life I would never be able to make it through the ups and downs that life throws my way!

30 day blogging venture: Day 20

2011-05-30T07:41:00.001-05:00

Day 20: the meaning behind your blog name
Inspirations is one of the bases of my blog. Inspiration comes in all shapes and forms, from magazines & songs, to window displays & other blogs, to recipes & photographs....

To me inspiration is creativity and bliss is also one of my favorite words. Bliss is ultimate happiness so it makes sense that I combine these 2 words to create the title of my blog.

30 day blogging venture: Day 19

2011-05-29T18:26:00.001-05:00

Day 19: another picture of yourself + a personal update
The past few days have consisted of moving boxes and bubble wrap, lifting desks and trying to assemble furniture.

No, it's not me who's moving it's my sister. It's my older sister whom I have shared a house with for the past 21 years. I am trying not to dwell on the fact that we will probably never live together again and focus on how happy I am for her. She has a 2 bedroom flat above an adorable flower shop in the down town of our city. Even though we have very different tastes when it comes to color schemes or decorating preferences, it will be perfect for her 1st apartment.

I think we've made about 5 trips so far and that hasn't even included 1/2 of her clothes or a few important things like her bed or 2nd desk. There are still loads of things to do, but slowly and surely she will get moved in to her new space. There's not enough time to show pictures now because I have to quickly put this post up before we continue on the packing, but there will be many to come!

30 day blogging venture: Day 18

2011-05-28T22:20:00.002-05:00

Day 18: something you crave a lot
There is something that is always good, that I never get sick of, that I couldn't live without, and that I always crave: ice cream. No matter what the day or the weather outside, ice cream is always my favorite comfort food.

30 day blogging venture: Day 17

2011-05-27T17:05:00.007-05:00

Day 17: a photo of you and your family
Here we all are! It may not be the most flaterign picture of us all bundled up, but this is the most recent one. Starting from the left, there's my sister, dad, mom, me, and 'lil sis'.

30 day blogging venture: Day 16

2011-05-26T17:13:00.020-05:00

Day 16: your celebrity crush If you would have asked me this question a few weeks ago there would have been a totally different answer. A few weeks ago I might have chosen someone like Rupert Penry-Jones or Channing Tatum, but ever since I saw Marc Blucas as Riley Finn, in Buffy, there is no comparison.
He is the ideal guy: a gentleman, funny, easy on the eyes, sweet, manly, muscular, and did I mention in uniform? He's a member of this super secret military combat group and I can't get enough of him. A girl can dream, right?

30 day blogging venture: Day 15

2011-05-25T15:02:00.003-05:00

Day 15: something you don’t leave the house without
If there are 2 things that I never leave the house without it would be #1 a spray of two of my favorite perfume or body sprays. I have quite a few to choose from and each seems to have it's own memories and moods. I use different sprays for not only the different seasons of the year but according to how I feel that day.

My #2 thing that I never leave the house without is one of my favorite possessions, my favorite ring. It's my class ring that I got in high school, but it's not your average class ring. It is made of white gold with a light blue stone surrounded by cubic zirconium. It is engraved with 'Immanuel' on one side and '2008' on the other. I never let it out of my sight!

30 day blogging venture: Day 14

2011-05-24T14:22:00.001-05:00

Day 14: a TV show you’re currently addicted to
This is all my sister's fault. Well, I should also blame her boyfriend for getting her hooked, and therefore getting me hooked as well. I have always been a fan of the shows and book with supernatural elements in them {Harry Potter, Charmed, LOTR, the books I am reading at present} so it didn't surprise me that I would get hooked to a show like this one.

It has supernatural elements in it, along with some pretty funny characters that always have my laughing out loud through each episode. The show is Buffy the Vampire Slayer and I am into the 3rd season with all it's twists, turns, and unexpected plot lines. For better or worse I am addicted to it and enjoy it for a good laugh.

30 day blogging venture: Day 13

2011-05-23T09:47:00.001-05:00

Day 13: your favorite musician and why?

This is an extremely hard decision for me to make because I love so many types of music and therefore many different musicians. I listen to just about anything from rock, to country, to punk, to pop.

When I think about music in general and as a whole, there is one band that comes to mind that I couldn't live without. These 4 musicians released their first record in 1963, and in the next 7 years produced over a dozen more. They created a new wave of excitement all the way from Liverpool England and are still one of the most famous and beloved bands of all times.
I hope you all can guess who I am talking about by now and if you guessed the Beatles you are most certainly correct. I was first introduced to their music pretty much as soon as I was born because it all started with my dad's influences. He was a Beatles fan from the beginning and was actually at their last concert before their broke up. He always told me the story about how once the Beatles started singing, all he heard was the sounds of the screaming fans.
When I visited my sister in England 2 years ago, we were fortunate enough to be able to see a Paul McCartney concert in Liverpool. We also took a day trip on the Magical Mystery Tour that took us all around the city, showing us some amazingly famous Beatles landmarks. This included the Cavern {pictured above} where the Beatles first performed, Strawberry field and Penny Lane {2 of their songs were named after them} and the McCartney house where Paul grew up.

It was definitely a once-in-a-life-time experience, one that I will never forget.

30 day blogging venture: Day 12

2011-05-22T11:06:00.002-05:00

Day 12: a photograph {or 3} of the town you live in
This is a moment captured last fall on one of my fall photo shoots. The colors were so splendidly amazing I couldn't resist taking over 240 pictures!
I can never resist a brick building.
One of our beloved bridges in my city!

30 day blogging venture: Day 11

2011-05-21T07:18:00.023-05:00

Day 11: what is in your makeup bag?
Here's a peak into my typical make-up bag. These are my basics that I use every day.
Face:
Sonia Kashuk hidden agenda concealer palette - my favorite concealer ever
Neutrogena Healthy Skin liquid makeup - great for summer coverage, good for the skin
Homemade eye and face primer - keeps makeup in its place
Maybelline Dream matte powder - great for oily skin, stayes on for hours
Eco Tools kabuki brush for face powder - so soft and great for travel

Eyes:Micabella cosmetics lose powder in diligence - amazing shimmer
Covergirl eye enhancers in the lilac palette - love using purple shades with my brown eyes
Maybelline expert wear eyeshadow in sun-baked neutral - perfect for summer
e.l.f cream eyeliner in jet black - great quality for their price
Maybelline expert wear eyeshadow in sapphire ice - amazing pigmentsRevlon eyelash curler - pretty basic but changes your whole look
Maybelline Colossal volume express mascara - one of my all time favorites
Covergirl lash blast fusion mascara - really defines the lashes

Cheeks:
Wet n' Wild Mega glo illuminating powder in starlight bronze - amazing coloring
Physicians Formula multi-colored blush in blushing peach - perfect summer flush
Maybelline Dream Mousse blush in peach satin - goes on like a cream, dries like a powder
N.Y.C. blushable creme stick in plaza pink - stays on well through the humid days
N.Y.C. color wheel mosaic face powder in pink cheek glow - perfect rosy pink color

Lips:
Victoria's Secret beauty rush lip gloss in double truffle - smells amazing, love the color
Covergirl wet slicks fruit spritzers lip gloss in raspberry splash - all time favorite
Revlon super lustrous lip gloss in nude lustre - perfect neutral color
Victoria's Secret beauty rush lip gloss in cherry bomb - amazing pink summer color
Covergirl true shine lip stick in delight - goes great with cherry bomb for the perfect summer lip

Brushes:
First 4 are Eco tools: blush brush, medium eyeshadow brush, concealer brush, angled brush
Next 3 are Sonia Kashuk: brow brush, large crease brush, angled eye liner brush
Last 1 is e.l.f.: contour brush
My bag: It's the perfect size for all my make-up whether I am off the the gym or on vacation!

30 day blogging venture: Day 10

2011-05-20T13:02:00.004-05:00

Day 10: a photo of your favorite place to eat
Honestly, I am a pretty simple girl.

Don't get me wrong, I love to go out to a fancy restaurant once in a while, but I am most content in my sweats with mac & cheese or some pizza. When I am in the mood for a fancy restaurant though, Red Lobster always comes to mind. Growing up in California I was raised on seafood, so you can see why I would love Red Lobster so much! It's making my mouth water just thinking about it.

30 day blogging venture: Day 9

2011-05-19T07:24:00.001-05:00

Day 9: a photo of the item you last purchased
So I thought I would take this opportunity to do a little double feature. Last week I went shopping with a friend and also went to the cities over the weekend. In the cities we happened to take a little trip to the Mall of America, and while that place can get a little crazy at times, we kept it to a few hours which helps. So here's my opportunity to share what I got, while doing the blogging venture of the day at the same time.

I have been trying to restrict myself from buying things, but it has been ages since I went shopping, plus here's the bonus: everything I bought was on sale for under $12 each.

{1} canvas tote bag with lime green handles from American Eagle
{2} yellow strapless dress with white embroidered flowers from Forever 21
{3} gold pearl ring from Charlotte Russe
{4} long gold necklace with pearls, pink beads, and sparkles from Charlotte Russe
{5} dark blue scarf with white flowers and white fringe from American Eagle
{6} peachy flowered scarf from H&M

30 day blogging venture: Day 8

2011-05-18T14:47:00.008-05:00

Day 8: a song to match your mood

Don't know much about your life.

Don't know much about your world, but
Don't want to be alone tonight,
On this planet they call earth.

You don't know about my past, and
I don't have a future figured out.
And maybe this is going too fast.
And maybe it's not meant to last,

But what do you say to taking chances,
What do you say to jumping off the edge?
Never knowing if there's solid ground below
Or hand to hold, or hell to pay,
What do you say,
What do you say?

I just want to start again,
And maybe you could show me how to try,
And maybe you could take me in,
Somewhere underneath your skin?

What do you say to taking chances,
What do you say to jumping off the edge?

Never knowing if there's solid ground below
Or hand to hold, or hell to pay,
What do you say,
What do you say?

And I had my heart beaten down,
But I always come back for more, yeah.
There's nothing like love to pull you up,
When you're laying down on the floor there.

So talk to me, talk to me,
Like lovers do.
Yeah walk with me, walk with me,
Like lovers do,
Like lovers do.

What do you say to taking chances,
What do you say to jumping off the edge?
Never knowing if there's solid ground below
Or hand to hold, or hell to pay,
What do you say,
What do you say?

Don't know much about your life
Don't know much about your world

Here's my favorite version of this song, from gLee!

30 day blogging venture: Day 7

2011-05-17T06:34:00.008-05:00

Day 7: your dream weddingNow this is a post that I have been very excited to do ever since I first saw this blogging venture. My dream wedding is an ever evolving string of ideas. It seems that my 'dream wedding' has changed dramatically over the years.

When I was little {about 5 or so} I imagined my wedding taking place in a huge cathedral and following ceremony with a lovely reception near the beach. I wanted it right out of a fairy tale: super fancy with bows and frills. Wow has my taste changed, and thank goodness for that.
Fun, bright, classic, happy, spring, spunky, fresh, creative....

These are all words I would use to describe my dream wedding. I love the idea of having a spring wedding with bright colors like yellow and turquoise!

Fresh daises, lemonade, and a cool breeze under large white tents lit with candle light. Dancing to our favorite songs and having a blast with our family and friends. I have so many ideas popping into my head, I could be a wedding planner! Well....now there's an idea!

p.s. most of the pictures are from my favorite wedding site: theknot.com

30 day blogging venture: Day 6

2011-05-16T07:12:00.006-05:00

Day 6: a photo of an animal you’d love to keep as a petEver since I was a little girl I always wanted a horse. Now I know it seems like every little girl wanted a horse/pony but I wanted it more than anything I could think of. I saved up my money, I read every book I could find on horses, I looked into places to board my horse, I thought up names, and even estimated how much it would cost to buy, feed, and house my horse. I went to horse camps, read fictional horse book, took riding lessons, and pretended to gallop around on them when I was getting from place to place.
It wasn't until I was older that my dreams were crushed and I realized that it would take a rather larger income, than my allowance, to keep my horse healthy and happy. My ultimate dream is to own a horse one day, but that dream is far into the future. I don't think there could ever be a pet that I have wanted more.

p.s. pictures from weheartit.com

30 day blogging venture: Day 5

2011-05-15T13:14:00.011-05:00

Day 5: a photo of yourself two years ago
If I could choose a place to go at this moment it would be where I was 2 years ago.

In the summer of 2009 I took a little trip down south, to Mexico and wish I could go back to those warm sandy beaches. Those hot days filled with jet-skying, relaxing, swimming, exploring, and hanging out. Even though I got stung by 3 different jelly-fish on 3 separate days it was all worth it to spend time with my second family!

30 day blogging venture: Day 4

2011-05-14T06:47:00.002-05:00

Day 4: your favorite photograph of your best friendSo I am not really a fan of using the phrase "best friend." My mom always taught me that I should never call anyone my best friend because I don't want to leave anyone out. So I am playing it the safe and sharing you the person who isn't just a best friend. She is also my sister, complete dork, and torturer {well at least when we were little}! And yes, that is a onesie that I bought for her, complete with monkey footy slippers, for Christmas a few years back.

fill in the blank friday #5

2011-05-13T23:14:00.005-05:00

1. If I had to use 3 words to describe why I am undoubtedly a....Ryan....they would be....compassionate, adventurous, and a little crazy.

2. Something that happened to me in life that initially seemed bad but turned out to be good was....when my mom got very sick and was in the hospital for 2 weeks. It made my never take life for granted and also made me want to go into the medical field.

3. Something I inherited from my mom is....her organization.

4. Something I inherited from my dad is....his very protective nature.

5. My goal for this summer is....to get in shape, travel as much as possible, take a risk and let my guard down.

6. The best thing about this week is....getting to see so many of my friends!!

7. Something I couldn't give up if I tried is....I'm going to be shallow and say chocolate because I just have some and it was soo amazingly splendid.

30 day blogging venture: Day 3

2011-05-13T13:24:00.011-05:00

Day 3: your idea of the perfect first date
For me, the idea of a perfect 1st date would be spontaneous, romantic and adventurous. Now this is sort of a fairy tale post so I would never hold a guy up that these standards, but this is just a fantasy.

In my mind going out to a fancy private dinner or anything where there can be awkward silences and pauses....not for me. I like events where there is something to focus on and do together. For me, something fun like bungee jumping, going to a sporting event that neither of us have seen {like lacrosse, cricket, or hockey}, sky diving, going horseback riding, or renting a boat out on the lake would be an amazing start.

For dinner I like to cook, and even better I like cooking with other people who like to cook. Creating something together would be amazing and it doesn't have to be fancy. Even roasting smores and hot dogs over a fire would be perfect in my book.

Last of all there is always one thing that comes to mind when I think of a perfect date scenario. Something that I wish every date could end with: taking a walk on the beach at sun set. It does sound a little corny, but I don't care, this is a fantasy after all!

30 day blogging venture: Day 2

2011-05-12T23:27:00.022-05:00

Day 2: a photo of something you ate today

Now while I don't have an actual picture of the food that I ate this afternoon {because I was without my camera} I do have a picture of the sauce that I ate. A few girlfriends {from school} and I had a nice little late lunch in between classes this afternoon. I was craving boneless wings and so excited to eat at one or my favorite restaurants.
I tend to venture into the spice sauces but have never gone past the caribbean jerk sauce {it's the one with the arrow on the right side}. Today I kept it on the mild side with some spicy garlic/parmesan garlic sauces. Maybe with a little persuasion I will venture even farther over onto the wild side!

Due to a little hic-cup with the blogging system shutting down last night this post went up a little later than expected, but in the blogging world it's about going with the flow, right?

30 day blogging venture: Day 1

2011-05-11T13:34:00.028-05:00

New blog project. I have been starting so many new projects lately, its crazy. This one I've seen done on a few different sites, so I thought I'd give it a go. It's a 30 day blogging venture. We'll see just how in shape I am for this little blogging marathon.

Day 1: a picture of yourself and a description of how your day wasMy day has consisted of the dreaded homework. The ever consuming vortex of time in a students life that will be done in 6 weeks time. I simple can't wait till I can pick up my fictional books without the stabbing guilty feeling that I should really be reading one of my medical books. My day did brighten with a visit from this little girl! This is a picture from last week's visit because it was just too dismal outside to take any pictures today.

Here's a little preview for what's to come....

Day 1: a photo of yourself and a description of how your day was

Day 2: a photo of something you ate today
Day 3: your idea of the perfect first date
Day 4: your favorite photograph of your best friend
Day 5: a photo of yourself two years ago
Day 6: a photo of an animal you’d love to keep as a pet
Day 7: your dream wedding
Day 8: a song to match your mood
Day 9: a photo of the item you last purchased
Day 10: a photo of your favorite place to eat
Day 11: what is in your makeup bag?
Day 12: a photograph of the town you live in
Day 13: your favorite musician and why?
Day 14: a TV show you’re currently addicted to
Day 15: something you don’t leave the house without
Day 16: your celebrity crush
Day 17: a photo of you and your family
Day 18: something you crave a lot
Day 19: another picture of yourself
Day 20: the meaning behind your blog name
Day 21: a photo of something that makes you happy
Day 22: a letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 23: 15 facts about you
Day 24: a photo of something that means a lot to you
Day 25: what’s in your purse?
Day 26: a photo of somewhere you’ve been to
Day 27: a picture of you last year and now and how have you changed since then?
Day 28: your favorite movie
Day 29: something you could never get tired of doing
Day 30: a photograph of yourself today + three good things that have happened in the past 30 days

the summer of travel

2011-05-10T20:06:00.014-05:00

"Remember that happiness is a way of travel....not a destination." - Roy M. Goodman

"We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment." - Hilaire Belloc

For some people summer break is just on the horizon. The summer break I am talking about is school. For so many people they have a few finals left, or 13 days {my mom and lil sis are counting down} and some are even done already! For me, I am in my 6th out of 12 weeks, so I still have 6 more weeks to go. This will inch way into my summer but I will not be denied of vacation or any sort of adventure just because I have school. I am packing so much into these short months it is making my head spin.

1. Even though it may not be my break, I'm starting off the summer with a little road trip {leaving in 3 days} to get a friend from her semester studying over in Colorado.

2. So along with the papers, presentations, getting ready for my internship, and finals I am also playing on a softball team. Not one of those super competitive ones {thank goodness, because I am not the most athletic person in the world}, but just a group of us getting together and having a blast.

3. There are also 2 other road trips planned so far, one for a girlfriend's birthday party in Iowa and a retreat just north of the cities, not to mention the number of road trips to the cities to visit a girlfriend who is going back home for the summer {you know who you are}.

4. There is a family vacation planned for late June that will last 1 1/2 weeks with the parents, sister, aunt + uncle and cousins.

5. And to finish it off I am planning a trip to CA, 2 days after the family vacation. This will all finish before my internship starting late July.

6. I also do have a job , babysit a few times a week, 3 graduation ceremonies to attend, and have other various activities that I am involved in.

Wow, I thought my head was spinning before. It seems a little ambitious but when you only have 3 weeks of no school, it's all about packing it in when you can and this summer is definitely no exception. It seems that just about every weekend has some sort of large event from now till September!

These plans seem to be screaming the same thing at me, something I am not so good at. SAVING. I am not the best long term saver of money. I tend to spend when I feel like it and don't have the best plan, but I am getting better. I have been donating plasma which seems to cut down on my credit cards, so by the time these trips role around I will be doing fine.

"He who would travel happily must travel light." - Antoine de Saint Exupery

"A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving." - Lao Tzo

These will be my mottos for this summer. I always seem to pack way too far in advance {well that's some people's opinions} and way too much. But this summer I will really test out what it means to pack light. I am not exactly an expert on that, but mixing and matching will be the name of the game, as will going with the flow and not making definite plans. Can't wait for these new ventures!

sushi.sushi.sushi

2011-05-08T15:02:00.004-05:00

When I first heard of sushi {back in California when I was still a little girl} I was instantly grossed out, to say the least. I never gave it even the smallest chance of being good. This all changed when a close friend informed me that not all kinds of sushi have large chunks of raw fish on it. There are so many variations, my favorite being the California and Philadelphia rolls {I haven't tried to many other kinds}. With some soy sauce and a spoon full of wasabi this is quickly becoming one of my favorite dishes.

Just a little tip, don't attempt to drink a Vente coffee and follow it with an assortment of sushi. I learned the hard way that even though they may be 2 of favorite things, don't think that you have an iron stomach. It wasn't so pretty.

Anyway, This has been a staple theme in my cuisine for the past few weeks, but I am anxious to branch out a little. I would love to try some new types and am thinking about buying the tools to make it. Have any of you ever tried to make sushi? I can't wait to give it a go.

happy mom's day

2011-05-08T08:38:00.007-05:00

For all those mom's out there, we can't thank you enough!

It's days like these that we remember how wonderful they are will all their affection, sacrifice, and love. While my mom is spending this particular mother's day in bed {she's got a little nasty cold} we still had a little celebration to show her how much we care.

ingredients for my friday night

2011-05-07T13:34:00.008-05:00

+ a few very hyper girls

+ kiddy cocktails

+ relaxing in our PJs {mine are Tinkerbell}

+ 2 yummy pizzas

+ some clay face masks that made our skin so soft

+ watching a little baseball

+ giggling till our tummies hurt

+ reminiscing back to high school with the movie 'The Perfect Man' {staring one of our favorite actresses from a few years back, Hilary Duff}

+ a few dishes of ice cream

+ making a last minute run to the store for supplies

+ bonding time with the girls

what I'm lovin in april

2011-04-30T15:36:00.018-05:00

So it's that time of the month again, time to reveal my monthly favorite, and I must say I am enjoying this new little project. Anyway, let's get right to it shall we?Jason Natural 98% Aloe Vera
At the beginning of this month I was covered in a reddish pink color from head to toe due to our Mexico trip. The previous month I had ordered some of this all natural almost pure aloe vera and I am so thankful that I did. While other aloe products will do fine, most of them have other added ingredients such as alcohol or extra scents. I am so in love with this product and sure I will be orderign it again. I say order because I haven't been able to find it in any stores around here, but if you know of a store that carries it let me know!

Off The Map
There are few shows that I will stick with and watch faithfully these days. If there is any sort of medical show I am instantly intrigue, but this one has other qualities that drew me it. It is set in the jungle of South America where a team of doctors practice tropical medicine in a 3rd world country. So good!

Aromatherapy Stress Relief Candle
If I am having a stressful day this is my go to relaxer along with my book of choice. I have the scent Eucalyptus Spearmint and while that may sound a little strange, it is amazing. This is included in a while stress relieving line from Bath and Body works.

Gilmore Girls
Now I know I have probably already mentioned this show a dozen times, but I have started watching this series again from the beginning for probably the 5th time. I have seen all of these episodes too many times to count but it never seems to get old. Every episode has me laughing out loud with a craving for coffee.

Yes to Carrots Body Butter
This brand is an all natural skin care line that has a full range of products for nourishing your skin. I heard about it from a few of the beauty Vlogs that I follow and ran out to target to try them. This body butter is a little bit on the pricey side, but in my opinion totally worth it. It not only nourishes your skin amazingly without leaving it greasy, but it smells like summer. With a fresh almost sun cream smell I am always looking forward to putting this on every day.

A Great and Terrible Beauty
I said in my last What I'm Lovin post that I might be putting this on the monthly favorite for April and I was right. I haven't had as much time as I would like to read book for pleasure but I am really enjoying it. And knowing that there are 2 more books to follow is exciting.

Whopper Robbin Eggs
These are it. Probably my favorite candy and are only around once a year. I limited myself to only one bag, but enjoyed them down to the last egg. Don't know it anyone else did this, but as a kid my and my friend used to rub the outside across our lips and use them as a sort of lipstick. Yes a little embarrassing, but we've all done things like that....I hope.

Apples
I have been obsessed with these this month. While pink lady apples are my favorite just about any apple will be {except the red delicious ones}. With a little almond butter they make the best snack!

Eco Tools
I love make-up as some of you may know and these are some of my favorite tools for using make-up. These tools are earth-friendly and known for the amazingly soft brushes. They are all natural and give 1% of the sales to For The Planet^®, a businesses committed to creating a healthier planet. I have really been into natural products as you can see by the other 2 products for this month and eco tools is no different!

fill in the blank friday #4

2011-04-29T22:57:00.014-05:00

1. I am looking forward to....being done with school. Don't get me wrong, I am loving it but can't wait to start a a job in my field.

2. Something kind of embarrassing that I still love anyway is....I love watching the Bachelor/Bachelorette shows. Yes they are stupid and filled with drama, but it makes me realize how much I don't want drama in my own life.

3. My favorite car is....an eclipse.

4. If I could pick one type of weather to live with for the rest of my life it would be....mild summer weather about 80-85 degrees with clear blue skies.

5. My favorite thing to do after a bad/stressful day is....call a friend or grab a snack and watch a movie.

6. This weekend....is crazy busy. Just got done babysitting, then tomorrow it's all about the homework till the afternoon when I am going to a banquet for my sister, then Sunday consists of church, working, homework, and a very cute little girl's 2nd birthday party! Here are the pics from her first birthday bash!

7. If I were a color I'd be....yellow....because.... I love the bright and cheery and that is what the color yellow screams! Bright, happy, and full of life!

colors of spring

2011-04-29T21:43:00.002-05:00

So ladies, with the new spring weather comes a new outfit, don't you think??

While my wallet didn't like the weight lifted from it, my closet welcomed a few new spring pieces and I justified it by getting pieces on sale. The first stop I made was to the store Vanity and there I picked up this adorable Rosette Pearl Trim Tank-Top and a few lace cinch tube-tops {perfect for fitting under shirts where you don't want those pesky straps showing}. I also picked up a new pair of sunglasses, and some other spring accessories.
There are a few pieces I have been looking for and hope to find with all the new spring lines out. For one, I am on the lookout for some brown springy ballet flats, something like the styles below. I have searched through a few stores, but haven't found the perfect ones yet. Have any suggestions?

And I'm always on the lookout for casual spring dresses. This season I can't seem get enough of the amazing coral, turquoise, and yellow colors. Whether it's accessories, make-up or pretty little dresses, I have been drawn to those refreshing colors. These dresses are from the lovely ModCloth website.

flowering update

2011-04-27T12:44:00.023-05:00

So a few weeks ago I promised an update on my new little additions and here they are. This was taken last week on day 12, so they have grown a little since then, but no blossoms have been spotted yet.I decided the start small and early this year due to the random winter type storms we have been getting here. My mom is practically chomping at the bit to get out in her garden, and while I don't have as big of a 'green thumb' as she does I certainly enjoy the growth of spring.

Ever since we moved here {almost 10 years ago}, my mom has been working hard in our backyard. It used to be a jumble of weeds, over-sized bushes, and a very neglected pathway that since over grew into a twisted mess. A few years into us living here we gave our house a much needed makeover that took about a year to complete. We redid the kitchen, family room, painted, added a new roof, redid the siding, and last of all recreated the backyard. It was a long but extremely rewarding process and we have been left with a backyard ready for volleyball, basketball, sun bathing, relaxing in the shade, admiring the flowers and so on.

It can't seem to wait till our atmosphere really kicks into spring and we can started nurturing those flowers. I always do my own little herbal garden and who known maybe we'll try a few new edible plants this year.

How about you, what do you garden?

Easter weekend

2011-04-27T11:43:00.004-05:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend!

Our weekend was jam-packed, from the time school ended on Thursday to the last movie we watched on Sunday night it was a crazy weekend filled with family fun. Here are just a few shots from our Sunday celebrations. We {my mom, dad , sister, and cousins} took a hike at Hoffman Hills and enjoyed the wonderful weather, perfect hiking weather.
We grilled our own shish-kabobs along with appetizer kabobs filled with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil. It was our first time with these new recipes, including a delicious dessert pizza and I must say, it was amazing. There's nothing like a cook-out to enjoy the wonderful weather. Wouldn't you agree that everything tastes better on the barbecue?