Over the Rainbow

Tornado Safety

2011-04-25T15:30:00.003-05:00

Yeah, I know, I haven't posted in a while...but this is important! Because tornadoes are getting reeeeeaaaalll serious in Arkansas these days. Now as many of you know...I'm kind of obsessed with them (I've wanted to be a storm chaser since I was nine), but this severe weather binge we've on lately has me cocking my head a little (Dang, mother nature....YOU SCARY!). So let's just get to the point of some tornado safety.....
--NUMBER ONE RULE: BE PREPARED!!!! No matter how dorky it sounds. My roommate always made fun of my precautions, but I promise she hasn't since that F1 tornado almost hit our apartment a few weeks ago. She was freaking out...I was calm and ready!

--Another quick note....I was kind of suprised that a few of my friends didn't know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning:

If a tornado "watch" is issued for your area, it means that a tornado is "possible."

If a tornado "warning" is issued, it means that a tornado has actually been spotted, or is strongly indicated on radar, and it is time to go to a safe shelter immediately.

--

Be alert to what is happening outside as well. Here are some of the things that people describe when they tell about a tornado experience:

A sickly greenish or greenish black color to the sky.
If there is a watch or warning posted, then the fall of hail should be considered as a real danger sign. Hail can be common in some areas, however, and usually has no tornadic activity along with it.
A strange quiet that occurs within or shortly after the thunderstorm.
Clouds moving by very fast, especially in a rotating pattern or converging toward one area of the sky.
A sound a little like a waterfall or rushing air at first, but turning into a roar as it comes closer. The sound of a tornado has been likened to that of both railroad trains and jets.
Debris dropping from the sky.

An obvious "funnel-shaped" cloud that is rotating, or debris such as branches or leaves being pulled upwards, even if no funnel cloud is visable

--Now since I assume that most of you all live in Apartment buildings (like myself) I will post safety tips for you...interior rooms and halls on the lowest floor are the best locations in large buildings. Central stairwells are good, but elevators are not. If the building loses power, you may be in the elevator for a long time. Stay away from glass walls and windows, no matter how small.I know for me, we have designated a spot in our stairwell, under the stairs (closest to the central part of the building). A corner would be safer than the middle of the wall. A bathroom, closet, office, or maintainance room with short walls would be the safest area, especially if it was on the north or east side of the building.

some other good tips....

Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit with items you may need in an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, duffel bags, or covered trash containers. Include:

A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil. (fill up a bathtub)
One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket and sleeping bag per person.
A first aid kit that includes your family's prescription medications.
Emergency tools including a battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries.
An extra set of cars keys and a credit card or cash
Sanitation supplies.
Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.
An extra pair of glasses.

Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller Disaster Supplies Kit in the trunk of your car.

Here's what I do: I have a quick small bag ready. It includes my shower radio (it's waterproof, portable, and was less than $10 at bed bath and beyond), Snoopy's leash (laying out beside it for quick access), my cell phone, a blanket, a pillow, a bottle of water, and a flashlight. Again, I know it sounds dorky...but I was asleep when the tornado hit last time...I was able to grab my roommate, my bag, and my dog and get us in our "safety place" in less than a minute....even though I was incoherent from such an abrupt awakening.

So stay safe my friends! How else are you prepared for the weather?

A Sorta Love Letter

2011-03-21T12:47:00.004-05:00

Today my best friend Brittany turns 24. As I was explaining to someone that birthdays aren't overrated because they are times of reflection and celebration of life, I began reflecting on Brittany's life to me. So I'm going to interrupt my regularly scheduled dork-filled, random thoughts to bring you a more personal and vulnerable letter to my bestest buddy.
Dear seester,
I wanted to take a moment, a pause of time if you will, and tell you one or a few things.
You and I are (if nothing else) alike in one way: we are WAY too hard on ourselves -- this is both a redeeming quality and a fault. A fault for obvious reasons: it can get us very down, it can sometimes be confused with insecurity, and (the worst) it can hold us back from our full potential. The better side of this is that is it makes us never satisfied -- we are always looking to improve ourselves, we are always motivated to be better, and we won't ever stop looking for opportunities or settle for "just OK." As Christopher Reeves once said, "either we let self doubt and feelings of inadequacy prevent us from realizing our potential, or embrace the fact that when we turn our attention away from ourselves, our potential is limitless.”
This, my dear, is what you are to me. Someone who has turned their attention away from themselves and always sacrificed for me. Someone that when I need someone to compare a guy to a stray dog -- you do not disappoint; someone who when I need reminding of my strengths but (not literally) can slap me and tell me I'm much better than how I'm handling a situation and I need to "man up and regroup" -- you got me. Or hell, if I'm feeling down and need a good laugh from someone who is just as dorky, but way funnier than I am --You shine like Charlie Sheen's drug habit. We can go weeks without talking and years without seeing each other and it never truly feels that way because (and yes I know how cheesy this sounds) are always with me -- and because you understand that that's life and overall - we are doing pretty damn good, Lady.
See, I called you "seester" in this letter because that is what you are to me - my family. Closer than that, even, because although many, many, MANY aspects of both of our lives have changed over the years, I know that you will still be the bitchy old lady that is the only person I can still tolerate when we are 80 in our pimped out wheel-chair drinking boxed wine on the wrap around porch of our nursing home -- and I can hardly wait! You are the Shirley to my Laverne.
I love you very, very much (no homo) and wish you the best on your birth anniversary, because that's what you deserve and so much more. Thank you for always being the rock in my life. I can't wait to see you again and I PROMISE...we will play Zelda this time. :)

Love, the coolest person ever, Lauren B.

On a side note to other reader who might be checking in on this letter....Brittany once again did my amazing blog design...and on a special note: that's an authentic drawing of hers on my header (which she rarely does anymore). You really do have to check out her website. Peace!

I'm Irish...and lucky :)

2011-03-17T15:36:00.006-05:00

I love my Irish heritage! Maybe because I like potatoes...maybe because I like green...or maybe because I hate snakes and dream of living in a land without any -- Who knows. I thought I'd throw a quick Irish recipe your way for a fun night if you're like me and hate corned beef and cabbage (seriously, Ireland???)

Irish Beef Stew

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 pounds boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
1/2 teaspoon salt
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 large onion, sliced
2 carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
1 parsnip, peeled and cut into large chunks (optional)
4 cups water, or as needed
3 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
1 cup coarsely chopped leeks
chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Heat oil over medium heat in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add lamb pieces and cook, stirring gently, until evenly browned. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the onion, carrots, and parsnips and cook gently alongside the meat for a few minutes. Stir in the water. Cover and bring to a boil before turning the heat down to low. Simmer for 1 hour or longer, depending on the cut of meat you used and if it is tender yet.
Stir in potatoes, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, before adding leeks and rosemary. Continue to simmer uncovered, until potatoes are tender but still whole. Serve piping hot in bowls garnished with fresh parsley.

Irish Chicken and Dumplins

Ingredients

2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
3 cups water
1 cup chopped celery
2 onions, quartered
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
5 carrots, sliced
1 (10 ounce) package frozen green peas
4 potatoes, quartered
3 cups baking mix
1 1/3 cups milk

Directions

In large, heavy pot, combine soup, water, chicken, celery, onion, salt, poultry seasoning, and pepper. Cover and cook over low heat about 1 1/2 hours.
Add potatoes and carrots; cover and cook another 30 minutes.
Remove chicken from pot, shred it, and return to pot. Add peas and cook only 5 minutes longer.
Add dumplings. To make dumplings: Mix baking mix and milk until a soft dough forms. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto BOILING stew. Simmer covered for 10 minutes, then uncover and simmer an additional 10 minutes.

I'd love to know if any of you tried these and how they turned out! And now I will leave you with my favorite Irish Proverb:

"May you have the hindsight to know where you've been, the foresight to know where you're going, and the insight to know when you're going too far." - Irish Blessing

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!!!!

You're the Inspiration!

2011-03-01T13:30:00.008-06:00

Obviously....80s ballads have been in my head recently...be expecting more blog post titles such as this.
I wanted to share with you an article that was brought to my attention today. It was from my friend's (Lauren) blog. It is one of my favorite blogs because Lauren is such a passionate and open person. Lauren is also, incidentally, the sister of one of my very dearest and best friends since the 6th grade. Six years ago, their father passed away. It was honestly one of the hardest times in my life seeing people I cared about suffer that much. She posted an article one of her dad's friends posted upon hearing his passing....it is beautiful. The article can be found here. Even if you didn't know Jack, you should read it as a reminder on the value of life and security. Seriously...read it, then read the rest of this post.
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did you read it yet? Good. Because it sent my brain spinning. I was thinking about all I do working in fundraising for a nonprofit. If someone gives us the slightest gift I send out a thank you note, a tax receipt, a tax statement in January, depending on the donation we might give a personal phone call, or vouchers to our concert. For people with long term connections with the symphony we invite them to parties, heed to their requests, make a toast in their honor (just because) and label them as our organization's VIPs. It got me wondering why I don't do that in my life? Don't get me wrong, I think I'm a pretty darn good friend...but why don't I do more of the "just because I appreciate you" things? I think things overall in the world have become pretty superficial and gifts are given because you "have" to or you're trying to present yourself in a certain way...whatever happened to giving gifts to honor the people you care about? Anyway, I'll stop rambling and list yet ANOTHER resolution I want to add to my life this year

5. Appreciate the little things.

Those were just some images of simple and pure love. They make me smile :) I plan to achieve this goal by starting out small. I'm going to Target today to buy two sets of note cards: 1. that says "Thank You" and another that says "Happy Birthday." I'm really great at remembering people's birthdays. So I'm going to start remember to send simple birthday cards and simple thank you cards. They only take, what...5 minutes max?? Plus don't they make you're day when people think of you? Anyway...done. That's my start. I'll work on progression and keep you updated :) Happy Tuesday!

closing thought: As August Boatwright says in The Secret Life of Bees, “Some things don't matter much. Like the color of a house. How big is that in the overall scheme of life? But lifting a person's heart--now, that matters. The whole problem with people is...they know what matters, but they don't choose it...The hardest thing on earth is choosing what matters.”

All Images found here.

2011 Upgrades

2011-02-23T13:12:00.003-06:00

The beginning of a year is all about renewal, reflection, and improvement. Yeah, yeah...I get it...it's almost March -- but that's my birth-month and probably the time I do the most reflection. The weather's changing, the spring storms seem to bring new life, and I tend to analyze how different I am from my last birthday (how existential, right?). So I'm just just now getting around to my resolutions...and they're pretty random this year.

1. I'm going to learn the "Single Ladies" dance. I am...it's going to happen...and you're going to be jealous...it's a fact.

2. I'm going to try to be able to pepper in personal details in my small talk. This resolution is brought to you by James. James is a Post Office employee at the Post Office in the Heights of Little Rock. He works almost everyday and is one of the sweetest creatures on the face of this planet (seriously guy...he's the epitome of what a male should be). Anyway, James always has smile, ALWAYS willing to go the extra mile, and there's something else special about him...every time I come in he greats me with a "Good morning, Miss Lauren! How are things at Arkansas Symphony? Is LeAnne (a co-worker) getting excited about her wedding?" Here's the thing...it's not just me, one day there was a HUGE line and he did something like that to EVERY PERSON that walked in...EVERY PERSON!! And I saw something remarkable...every person in the long, slow post office line was smiling, and just happy to be there...contagious, huh? So I'm going to work on my ability to do that. A few seconds to make someones day. Anyway, enough about James.

3. Read at least one fundraising/nonprofit book a month. It's important for me to excel at my work...especially because I actually love what I do (who knew??).

4. get even more organized and conquer more projects. This was a resolution last year, and I have to say....I did pretty phenomenal. My apartment stays spotless. all parts: storage, refrigerator, pantry, dusting, glass cleaning, vacuuming. Better than that, everything has a place....I dare say it's become a hobby...my mind stays clear. So I'm going to work on a few projects to "upgrade" my apartment. You may remember it from this post (Note to self...must post pictures of changes already made from then to now). Here are a few upgrades I had in mind:

1. A drapery accent wall such as these:
2. A front door upgrade:

I don't really have anything in mind for this yet, since we do have a very unique front door situation...but I will post what I have so far very soon.

3. Paint an accent wall on this wall:

Well...not this one...the one to the right of the T.V. Stand....we're thinking some form of gray...CAST YOUR VOTE!!

Other than that, I have big, big news....I'm going to be an aunt!!!! Congrats to my sister, Lexi, and my brother-in-law, Hank. I will be very involved because I'm super excited...more posts to come!!

A Bittersweet Symphony

2010-12-01T23:11:00.006-06:00

Ok...so it's actually not bittersweet at all...but I love the song and you are welcome for that flashback. Today was actually a "fill out paperwork" and orientation day so there's not too much to divulge as far as my work...so I"m gonna tell you a bit about where I work.

It's located at St. Johns Catholic Center and it's tucked away in the Heights of Little Rock (for those that are unaware....GREAT location). Here's what I get to drive up to:

and here's what I see when I enter the gate:

Beautiful, right?? But this isn't my building....This is:

Which is located to the right of the building shown before it (it a oval drive-through).
And check it....I be TOO official:

I can tell you this: My favorite part of the day was listening to the violinist practice downstairs. I will try to tell you more about my actual job soon. I would love to hear your opinions.

Hodge Podge

2010-11-30T16:12:00.003-06:00

An informative post coming at you today!

Sorry for the lack of posts

--Let me explain. The past two weeks I accidentally made one of the best decisions of my life thus far. I turned down a job as my term at Make-A-Wish was ending because it wasn't "the right fit." As soon as I did it--STRESS. But the good lord prevailed (as he always does) and another job came up (As you can see here)--but that wasn't the best decision of my life. The best decision was taking two weeks off accidentally. Technically, I haven't NOT worked since I was 16 -- my senior year of high school I worked two jobs and all through college I have worked minimum 25 hours a week (along with going to school full time with a research major, sorority, volunteering because I wanted to work in nonprofit, and 3 school clubs that I was dedicated to). The only time I "didn't" work was my first semester in college (I took 16 hours) and was going through a very tough time (I was seeing a counselor 3 times a week). My "vacations" over the past few years have usually always been to visit my family in Columbia, Missouri (they have since moved to Little Rock). This was the first time since I can remember that I've really had time off-- and I needed it! Just to get all those "little things" done...and I did...but I'll tell you about that later ;)

2. I START MY NEW JOB TOMORROW!!!!

--no worries, I will have a full report for you tomorrow!! (sorry "Whip it up Wednesday," you'll have to wait another week). I can't wait! I'm more excited that I'm coming in at funding mailouts so I can start slow.

3. How much do you love my awesome new layout??

--A BIG thanks to my greatest friend, Brittany Miller! She designed this layout for me in just a few minutes (So talented). You all have GOT to check her out if you never have!
You can check out her website here, her Facebook page here (become a fan NOW), you can see the Twitter layout she made for me here (follow ME while you're there!), and you can check out Brittany's blog here. She can create you a blog design or a Christmas Card like this one:

On a scale form 1 to "holy crap"...how adorable is that??? You can order any of these, custom, by emailing her at brittartist@gmail.com.

4. DON'T FORGET ABOUT "Letters from Santa"!!!! They're so cute! Check out that post here.

5. Posts coming soon!

-- Whip it up Wednesday will resume next week and I have some MIGHTY FINE recipes headed your way!!! My Christmas decorations have BEEN up -- can't wait to show them off!...I'm always open for more suggestions, readers! I would like to write about what you would like to hear about.

That's all for now, leave some post suggestions in the comment box!

Thankful for Changes

2010-11-26T14:50:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to add a quick post on a change going on in my life. I am no longer an employee at Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-South. My fidelity now lies with (drum roll, please)....

I want to thank MAW for everything they have done for me over the past 6 months as an intern, volunteer, and employee. The world will never know just how incredible that organization is. But "'the time has come', the Walrus said, 'to talk of other things.'" I am now the Development Coordinator of the Arkansas Syphony Orchestra. No, I do not play an instrument anymore (I took 7 years of Piano and 2 years in band playing the Oboe), but I am an AVID supporter of the Arts -- and over the years it has been breaking my heart watching them fade. I'm lucky to live in a city that has such rich culture, and thankful for the opportunity to work for such an organization. More than that, I'm blessed and thankful for all of the people who helped push me to this point.

2 other quick thank yous- Thank you to all my readers! and thank you to Brittany Miller for my awesome new layout (more on that later).

Happy Holidays :)

Whip it up Wednesday-ish

2010-11-11T09:41:00.006-06:00

Yes, I know I'm a day late....I'm crazy busy this week...which is why this is also going to be a quick post. So here are some more Thanksgiving recipe picks:

New Age Green Bean Casserole

Seriously...on a scale from one to "Dear God," how amazing does that look?? I would type up the recipe for you, but I'm not going to and let me tell you why. I got this picture from one of my favorite blogs, the Pioneer Woman. This lady can do it all...she took that picture (is an amazing photographer) and creates all these recipes herself (she has her own nationwide cookbook). So instead I'm going to send you over here to get the recipe straight from her because I can't do it justice like she can. If any of you are into photography check out her photography section and you can get Photoshop actions that make editing SOOOO much easier.

Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

I feel like everybody should know how to make these, but if you don't it's a DARN SHAME. These are SOOO easy and SOOO good. Guaranteed to win hearts. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
2 cups Bisquick biscuit mix
2/3 cup milk
1/2 cup medium or sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1/4 cup butter (melted)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley

Method:
Preheat oven to 450 degree. Mix biscuit mix, milk, and cheddar cheese until soft dough forms; beat vigorously for 30 seconds. Drop approximately 1/4 cup portions onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.While biscuits are baking, mix together in a small bowl; melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley; brush generously over warm baked biscuits before removing from cookie sheet. Serve warm. Makes 10-12 biscuits.

I haven't heard of anyone making any of the recipes yet...has anyone tried any of them? Do these look tantalizing (because they are straight talking dirty to me right now)? What other types of recipes would you like to see before Thanksgiving?

Letters from Santa

2010-11-09T13:03:00.004-06:00

I will be decorating for Christmas this week and we all know how much I love Christmas so I thought I would pass this along to you. It's Make-A-Wish's Letters from Santa Fundraiser! Here's the e-mail I have been sending out to people.

We just kicked off a
really cute fundraising campaign called Letters
from Santa and I
thought you might be interested in it! It is really simple.
For a $10 donation per
letter you can have a letter sent to someone
from Santa (see
attached flyer) and postmarked from the North Pole!
If you follow the link
in the flyer you can see they can choose from
different template
letters and different stationary to have their letters
sent. Though these
aren’t on the flyer or website, funny Letters from
Santa to your adult
friends and co-workers are available as well. If you
are interested in
these, please let me know! Attached is an order
form for the regular
Letters from Santa. Please feel free to forward
this on to others who
may be interested!

OK...I'm a little biased because I created the marketing campaign for this fundraiser...but I swear it's really awesome!

Here's the website

If you would like me to e-mail you the flyer and order form, I will be happy to! Just shoot me an e-mail at lab327@hotmail.com and I will reply with the attachments.

If nothing else, then do this: Please send this message along to all of your friends! All you have to do is copy and paste the information I just gave you and send it to your friends. This is a very worthy cause. 100% of the donations will go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-South and $0.78 of every dollar is used as part of the wish granting for a child. It's amazing. Thank you all.

Best "Wishes",

Lauren Bussell

Whip It Up Wednesday

2010-11-03T13:22:00.004-05:00

Confession: I don't love Thanksgiving...it just gets in the way of Christmas to me. Why didn't our forefathers space things out a little better? I mean...there are no REAL holidays in the late spring or early summer (except for my birthday, of couse...but who doesn't want to celebrate that?). On the other hand, I am very aware that most people do not share my feelings. So for the next few weeks I will unleash some killer Thanksgiving recipes (since I just can't take most of the caseroles my family serves). Hopefully it will add some flair to the traditional holiday.

Today I wanted to share some appetizers...or as my family calls them: I-need-something-to-eat-while-that-entoxicating-smell-is-in-the-air.....tizers....? Anywho....I have one easy appitizer for you that received 5 star ratings and 1 A-MAZing dessert that's seasonal at Olive Garden.

Savory Party Bread

(sorry the picture is so small)

Ingredients
1 (1 pound) loaf round sourdough bread, unsliced
1 pound Monterey Jack cheese, sliced (honestly, I use shredded cheese)
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped green onions
2 teaspoons poppy seeds

my personal take: I've had people want to add bacon, not here...I do like to add minced garlic and parsley, though.

Directions
Cut the bread lengthwise and crosswise without cutting through the bottom crust. Insert cheese between cuts. Combine butter, onions and poppy seeds; drizzle over the bread. Wrap in foil; place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes. Unwrap; bake 10 minutes longer or until the cheese is melted.

Simple enough, eh? There were no bad things said about this easy appitizer...I bet you could get fun with it for Christmas. Maybe instead of cheese add melted chocolate or icing and instead of poppysead add Christmas sprinkles? Ooohhh and some cinniman!! OK...now that I'm obviously leaning toward dessert...moving on!

Olive Garden Pumpkin Cheescake

Crust
Use an 8-inch spring-form pan

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1 cup ginger snap cookies

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnimon

8 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
3 8-ounce packages cream cheese

1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin

2/3 cups light brown sugar

3 eggs1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Sour Cream Layer
1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg **freshly ground if available
Whipped Cream
2 pints heavy cream

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Additional toppings: Caramel sauce, gingersnap crumbs

my personal take: This is a lot....and if you're lazy like me, I'm willing to bet that a frozen pie crust and cool whip would suffice. If you are brave enough to make it all yourself, let me know how that works out!

Crust preparation
In a medium sized bowl combine graham cracker crumbs, ginger snap crumbs, sugar, and butter, mix well. Press crust into a springform pan. Press the crust about halfway up the side of the springform pan. Refrigerate crust while you continue to prepare the cheesecake.
Filling preparation
Allow extra time for mixing up this filling. Remove the pure pumpkin puree from the can and place into a couple of large paper towels. Wrap the pumpkin puree with the paper towels, this will soak the excess water in the pumpkin puree. Continue to remove excess water from the pumpkin puree for about 60 minutes before making cheesecake mixture. Bring the remaining ingredients for the filling to room temperature while the pumpkin puree is having the water removed. With a mixer beat cream cheese until smooth, and add eggs one at a time, and then combine all ingredients for the filling in a mixer. Blend until very smooth. For best results allow all ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing the filling. Remove crust from refrigerator, and pour in filling.
Bake cheesecake at 350 for 30 minutes, and then reduce temperature to 325 degrees for an additional 30 minutes. When you remove the cheesecake it should be slightly jiggly in the center, the cheesecake will set up nicely as it cools.
Sour Cream Layer
When you remove the cheesecake from the oven set aside, and begin to prepare the seasoned cream cheese layer. In a small bowl combine sour cream, sugar, and spices. Blend well. Spread seasoned sour cream mixture over the baked cheesecake evenly. Place the cheesecake back into the 325 degree oven for about 8 minutes to the sour cream layer will set.
Whipped Cream
Now allow the cheesecake to cool, when the cheesecake is completely cool, you can add the whipped cream. In a medium sized bowl combine 2 pints heavy whipping cream, vanilla, and sugar, mix well with a blender or a stand mixer. Whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks. Remove ring from the spring-form pan, and either pipe the whipped cream over the pumpkin cheesecake or spread with a knife.
When you are ready to serve the Olive Garden Pumpkin Cheesecake cut each slice, drizzle the top of the cheesecake with caramel sauce, and then sprinkle over gingersnap crumbs before serving.
Additional notes about cheesecake making from the author:I personally do not use a waterbath. I do have a clay baking stone in my oven, and my cheesecakes come out very well. You may wish to use a waterbath when you prepare your cheesecake.Also, I would really urge you to try to let your ingredients reach room temperature before blending together the filling. This really makes a difference in getting a nice and smooth filling.

How are these striking your fancy? I want pictures if you plan on making them...and a review! Are there any other recipes you would like to see for Thanksgiving?

Quick Tuesday Post

2010-11-02T10:09:00.003-05:00

A lot has been going on and I haven't had time to write...but I found this quote today from one of my favorite children's books and thought I would share. Enjoy!

Upon asking the Skin Horse what "real" is...

"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.

"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "When you are Real you don't mind being hurt."

"Does it happen all at once, like being wound up," he asked, "or bit by bit?"

“It doesn’t happen all at once,” said the Skin Horse. “You become. It takes a long time. That’s why it doesn’t happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in your joints and very shabby. But these things don’t matter at all, because once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.” -The Velveteen Rabbit

Children's book or not...this is great advice. I know there are a lot of people going through tough times right now...but remember this. Have a great Tuesday.

Whip it Up Wednesday: Halloween Style

2010-10-27T09:04:00.006-05:00

Cliche', cliche'...yes I could go with the normal "dirt cupcakes" or the always classic "turn a ding dong into a spider," but I tried to find some unconventional recipes for this segment of "whip it up Wednesday" (Yes it's staying....I got one vote and that's good enough for me). So without further ado...some fun Halloween recipes:

Spiderweb Nacho Spread

The breakdown:This spread only has 252 calories (but I'm betting that doesn't include the chips) Maybe try multigrain chips instead.

Recipe Ingredients
Bean Layer
2 cans (16 oz each) lowfat refried black or pinto beans
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 Tbsp lime juice
1 Tbsp hot Mexican chili powder
1 tsp minced garlic
3 large plum tomatoes, sliced
Middle Layer
1 1/2 cups thick and chunky salsa
1 cup (4 oz) shredded Mexican cheese blend

Guacamole Layer
4 ripe Hass avocados
3 Tbsp lime juice
2 Tbsp minced red onion
2 large jalapeno chiles, seeded and minced
1 tsp salt
Web
1 cup reduced fat sour cream
Decoration: a clean plastic toy spider
Serve with: blue, yellow, red corn tortilla chips
Recipe Preparation
1. Bean Layer:
Combine all ingredients except tomatoes in a medium bowl until well blended. Scrape the mixture onto a 12- to 14-in. round serving plate and smooth into a 10-in. circle with a spatula. Arrange tomato slices around edge of bean layer to make a border.2. Drain salsa in a strainer to get rid of excess juice. Spread over bean mixture, leaving some of the bean layer showing around the edge. Sprinkle cheese over salsa, leaving some of the salsa layer showing.3. Guacamole: Halve avocados; remove seeds and spoon flesh into a medium bowl. Add lime juice, onion, jalapeños and salt, and mash until fairly smooth. Spoon over cheese layer and spread into an even layer.4. Place sour cream in a ziptop bag; seal bag and snip a small tip off one corner. Pipe a spiderweb design over guacamole and onto the plate. Decorate with toy spider. Serve with tortilla chips.Plan Ahead: You can make 4 hours ahead, cover and refridgerate

Of course, because it's nachos, you can make this dip to your own liking...but how great of a party dip is this???

Witches Brew

2 oz. SKYY Infusions Citrus
½ oz. Fresh lemon juice
¼ oz. Fresh pomegranate juice
1 oz. Simple Syrup
Shake all ingredients well with ice and strain into a chilled highball glass. Garnish with blueberries and enjoy.

**I will tell you that I change this recipe a bit...instead of simple syrup I add Brut or Extra Dry Champagne, and instead of lemon juice I add fresh lime juice or orange juice.

Of course you can always vary recipes, as well. Like putting green food coloring in your mac-n-cheese so it will look like boogers...I just got really excited about making these now! What foods will you enjoy on Halloween?

Orange, Black, and...Green?

2010-10-26T14:59:00.004-05:00

Random thought: For some reason writing that title made me think of Ireland...but nope, it's for Halloween! A green Halloween that is!

**This image was found here**

You may remember last year's green Halloween post...but you probably don't. I created a list of things you can do to save mother earth while saving the green in your wallet, as well, during the holiday. I decided to come back with a few more for this year.

Get crafty when decorating by buying biodegradable foods at your local Farmer's market. I know that colors don't always suffice (I just happen to HATE orange) so try painting them white and then adding black designs with eco-friendly (low VOC) paints.
If you're throwing a Halloween party, try doing a spread with healthier options like Salsa, hummus, or..yes, if you must have them - sweets. Just try to display them in a wash-n-reuse container instead of having individually wrapped candies and "party bags."
If you just can't bare the thought of recycling a costume or don't have the time to make your own -- please...don't get a plastic costume. If you wanna me a mustard bottle...there are other options besides plastic (did I just think up my costume this year?? hmmm...)
Try organic or eco-friendly hair and makeup brands. You can probably just get them at Target.

Simple enough, right? How about all my eco-nerds out there...tell me some I might have missed!

Boo-ya!!

2010-10-25T13:40:00.006-05:00

As you would probably expect...this week Over the Rainbow is throwing it all over to Halloween. We are already in spirit in my abode.

*taken from my "Thriller" dance performance

*Snoop "THUG LIFE" Bussell (my dog has a grill...I love it)

In loux of the tornados Arkansas received this week, I decided that my Monday topic was going to be safety. You may say "boring," but I personally value my life a little bit and yours as, well so I tried to throw in some tips to remember when you're out having your fun....some things you may not think about...some you might.

(IF you're a parent or taking a child out for Halloween) As bad as it sounds, this is just a fact of life now. Get on the internet and check your local state website for sex offenders. Almost every state has one, just do a search for your state sex offender site. Look up your zip code and it should have a list of registered offenders in your area that includes street addresses. Make sure that your kids stay away from these houses!
This tip can help you OR your child: pick out or make a costume that will be safe. Make sure that it's fire proof or treated with fire retardant. If they/you are wearing a mask of any kind, make sure that the eye holes are large enough for good peripheral vision. It's also not a bad idea to make sure your costume is bright and reflective.
Beleive it or not...an astounding number of people use Halloween to hurt cats. Animal cruelty should not be tolerated under ANY circumstance. It is also punishable by law, so if you are aware of this activity it is your responsibility to report it to authorities.
Eat a filling dinner before hitting up any trick-or-treating or Halloween party. Nutrition is your safety net!
For your home: check outdoor lights and sweep walk areas -- especially wet leaves...nobody wants a lawsuit before Christmas!

I do wish you all tons of fun this Halloween! Any other tips people don't often think of? Stay tuned tomorrow for an eco-friendly Halloween, and Wednesday for fun Halloween treats!

****P.S. Boo at the Zoo (Little Rock Zoo) sent me a special offer for 57% off tickets. Here's the website if you're interested.

Whip It Up Wednesday???

2010-10-20T10:21:00.006-05:00

I'm experimenting. I love to cook...and now that I'm giving up on fast food (with the exception of some...like Panera bread and Jason's Deli) I've been cooking a LOT more at home. Having a desk job from 8-5 has allowed me to want to cook when I get home...it's my release time...yet it keeps the creative part of my brain going. Anyway...I thought I might dispense some of these recipes every Wednesday for "Whip It Up Wednesday"...I would appreciate your feedback:

On to the post...

I've got two recipes for you today. I don't know the Muffin Man...but I have a severe crush on the Stew Man...whoever he might be. I looovve a warm stew or soup in the winter time..and since you never know exactly when the wintertime might be in Arkansas...I thought I might share 2 of my favorites:

Rustic Italian Tortellini Soup

--this is by FAR one of my favorite soup recipes EVAA! My sister wanted to "try this out" on my one night and I'm not one to turn away a free home cooked meal....WORTH. IT. This is such a beautiful soup, as well, but believe it or not it wasn't visually appealing enough for me to get excited about it...so glad I was wrong, but me and my roommate CRAVE this soup now (and that's saying a lot with she being a retired vegetarian and me growing up eating red meat and potatoes at almost every meal). Anyway...enough, my mouth is watering...on to the recipe!

--3 Italian turkey sausage links (4 ounces each), casings removed (I used the "hot" sausage version)
--1 medium onion, chopped
--6 garlic cloves, minced
--4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
--1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
--1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
--1 package (6 ounces) fresh baby spinach, coarsely chopped
--2-1/4 teaspoons minced fresh basil or 3/4 teaspoon dried basil (or, you can substitute thyme and oregano)
--1/4 teaspoon pepper
--Dash crushed red pepper flakes (optional if not using hot turkey sausage)
--Shredded Parmesan cheese, optional (or if you're me...not optional)

Directions

--Crumble sausage into a Dutch oven; add onion. Cook and stir over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Add garlic; cook and stir 2 minutes longer. Add the broth and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Stir in tortellini; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5-8 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. Add the spinach, basil, pepper and pepper flakes; cook 2-3 minutes longer or until spinach is wilted. Serve with cheese if desired.

This makes about 6 servings and even if that's too much for your household...it's still wonderful as a leftover. It only takes about 30 minutes to make! The best part? Each serving is only about 252 calories...and believe me, it fills you right up.

Pumpkin Stew

--This is a recipe our President/CEO sent to all of us -- SO FREAKING CUTE FOR FALL!! I love it! Serve it in a pumpkin for added fall flair.

--2 lbs. of beef stew meet cut into 1 inch cubes
--3 TBS of vegetable oil, divided
--1 cup of water
--3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
--4 carrots, sliced
--1 large green bell pepper, chopped
--4 cloves of garlic, minced
--1 onion, chopped
--2 tsp. of salt
--1/2 tsp. of ground black pepper
--1 (14.5) can of whole peeled tomatoes, chopped
--2 TBS. of beef bouillon granules
--1 sugar pumpkin

Directions

--heat oil in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Place beef in saucepan and cook until it's evenly brown. Mix in water, potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer approximately 2 hours (yes...I know that is ridiculous..what I prefer to do is do this in the morning, and let in "simmer" in my crock-pot while I'm at work...multitasking is key!). Dissolve the bouillon into the mixture and then stir in the tomatoes. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cut out the top of the pumpkin and remove seeds and pulp. Place pumpkin in heavy baking pan. Fill pumpkin with stew mixture and brush the outside of the pumpkin with remaining oil. Bake in preheated oven for 2 hours, or until tender (do NOT over bake!). Serve the stew from the pumpkin, scraping out some of the pumpkin meat with each serving.

Yes...it takes a ridiculously long time, but how fabulous would this be for Halloween or Thanksgiving?? You could easily make the stew the day before while you're at work, and then pop it in the over the day you're planning to eat it.

Now I want to hear from all of you. Is Whip it Up Wednesday a tradition I should continue? I also want to know if you get a chance to make/try the recipes! Happy Autumn!

Blog Action Day 2010 - An UnNatural State

2010-10-15T09:06:00.008-05:00

The day is finally here. This isn't one of my usual posts, but it is an important one. As you probably know, nonprofits are very dear to my heart -- so much, that I want to spend the rest of my life working with them. Some of my favorites include Make-A-Wish Foundation (of course), the A21 Campaign (this is one of my ALL-TIME favorites...it's amazing, check it out), and To Write Love on Her Arms (a personal favorite that I would love to be more involved in). These are all large or growing organizations that all support causes you really can't ignore. However, what about water? "Sir, would you like to donate $10 for water?" It doesn't really sound as attention grabbing as the others. Maybe, psychologically this is why I never paid much attention to the need for clean water. I read about Matt Damon's plea for clean drinking water, and it really got to me, but something else grabbed my attention a little more...something a little closer to home...in the Natural State (for those of you possibly reading this from other states...that is Arkansas' official motto).

Growing up in Arkansas, my dad was always wonderful and "drinking it in" (pun intended). I've never been to Disneyland, or Disneyworld, or Universal Studios, or New England. My family packed up our 1970s camper and took off to various lakes or state parks across Arkansas. It is by far one of my favorite things about living here. I would hike (or camp at) Petit Jean Mountain, Canoe the Buffalo River, or Kyak at Wooley Hallow before I ever had a desire to visit New York City. Overall, my dad was wonderful at helping me grasp and appreciate nature. One of my favorite memories is hiking Petit Jean, and my dad letting us stop and get a drink in the clean river (he explained to us that the waterfalls served as a natural filter...judge me if you want...I would drink that water anyday). Now to the point....

At the rate we are going...how much longer til I won't be able to do that? Is that going to be the "back in my day" story? You know...."You youngsters don't appreciate anything. Back in my day I could drink from a river because my generation appreciated nature and took care of it!" That's a really scary thought for me. I'll cut to the chase and try to make this short: Here are some everyday things you could do to make sure this doesn't happen...because if it does, it would break my heart:

Correctly dispose of hazardous household products. Keep paints, used oil, cleaning solvents, polishes, pool chemicals, insecticides, and other hazardous household chemicals out of drains, sinks, and toilets. Many of these products contain harmful substances -- such as sodium hypochlorite, petroleum distillates, phenol and cresol, ammonia and formaldehyde -- that can end up in nearby water bodies. Contact your local sanitation, public works, or environmental health department to find out about hazardous waste

Use nontoxic household products whenever possible. Discarding toxic products correctly is important, but not buying them in the first place is better. Change all your house cleaning products to eco-friendly ones. For examples of safe substitutes for toxic household products, check EPA's EnviroSense website.

Recycle and dispose of all trash properly. Never flush non-degradable products -- such as disposable diapers or plastic tampon applicators -- down the toilet. They can damage the sewage treatment process and end up littering beaches and waters.

Conserve water. Use the most efficient plumbing fixtures. A whopping 73 percent of the water you use in your home is either flushed down the toilet or washed down the shower drain. Toilet dams or bricks placed in your toilet tank can save four gallons of water per flush, or up to 13,000 gallons a year for the average family of four. Low-flow toilets and showerheads also yield major water savings. Repair drips promptly; a dripping faucet can waste 20 gallons a day, a leaking toilet 200 gallons. Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them down.

And a couple of tips while maintaing your vehicle:

Recycle used motor oil. Avoid pouring waste oil into gutters or down storm drains, and resist the temptation to dump wastes onto the ground. A single quart of motor oil that seeps into groundwater can pollute 250,000 gallons of drinking water. If you don't have a place to recycle used motor oil in your community, ask your local sanitation or public works department to create one. When you buy motor oil, ask if the store or service station has a program to buy back waste oil and dispose of it properly. Keep up with car maintenance to reduce leaking of oil, coolant, antifreeze and other hazardous fluids.

Be "green" when washing your car. Hand-wash your car on the lawn with a bucket of soapy water, rags and a hose. Just turning off the hose between rinsings can save up to 150 gallons. Or, if you don't want to do it yourself, choose a car wash that recycles its water

What's the verdict? Did this post inspire anyone? Did it startle you as badly as it did me?

***All Images were taken from the Associated Country Women of the World and "tips were found on the NRDC website.

Freaky Friday...almost

2010-10-14T20:45:00.005-05:00

I planned to save this post for the Ides of October (tomorrow), buuuuuttt tomorrow is Blog Action Day! So, I'm spilling the Halloween beans today. Here's what's going on around my place.
(The black flame candle!!!..name that movie). Just a little bit here and there....votes? I'm not a HUGE halloween fan...so this is me getting in the spirit. I want your HONEST opinion, please! :)

Rearrange Me

2010-10-07T12:19:00.015-05:00

You guys remember my friend, Justin, right? I briefly mentioned him in this post about his grandmother. He is a designer for Bassett Furniture here in Little Rock. He has never had training in design, yet he is a very solicited designer. He began by designing Christmas trees (which he is AMAZING at and his client list doubles every year). So nevertheless he's wonderful at arrangements.

Anyway, I was so proud of MY little table arrangement...

Until it came time for our weekly wine night.... Justin went Zoolander on my arrangement. You know that scene where he fixes the reporter's hair in like...3 seconds? Well he did that...over to this:

Which looks incredible...I say; but it did leave a pathetic hole on my dining room table. So I threatened his life to fix something incredible, and he did not disappoint. Check it out:

Gorgeous, huh? The best part about this arrangement was that all the stems were 50% off at Hobby Lobby (they almost always are). Isn't he incredible?

I also persuaded Justin to divulge some of his "arrangement tips for my followers. Here is what he recommends:

Its all about placement

-Justin says to make sure that you space out the pieces throughout the arrangement...but for the most part work from the entrance angle. For this piece he worked from two: one from my front door (you can see the arrangement as you open the door to the right), and from the living room.

Make it as natural as possible

-I would have passed up the reeds and the fuzzy ferns, but Justin's eyes lit up up after seeing them...and rightfully so. Look how much "realer" this makes the arrangement look. It definitely brings the natural elements I love so much.

Always make sure eye catches do not cover up smaller parts of the arrangement.

- check how he stuffed the huge...cylinder objects (sorry...I have a juvenile sense of humor) down into the arrangements...but at different levels. It helps give the arrangement some umph without taking attention away from the entire arrangement.

So spill it...better, worse? Does he pass as a designer?

Blog Action Day 2010

2010-10-04T14:01:00.004-05:00

As many of you know, I am very, very passionate about charities. I want to build my career in Nonprofits, and I believe helping others is the only way to truly acheive self-fulfillment. Hence: Blog Action Day 2010!

Change.orgStart Petition

All you have to do is take a day to discuss the topic of action selected and write about it! This year's theme is water. You can see all of the suggested posts for Blog Action Day, which is October 15, 2010, at the bottom of the link I gave you at the top.

This is a very easy way to get involved. Go to the website, register your blog, and make a difference by doing what you already do...just blogging!

I've limited my topic down to 2...maybe 3 choices, but you'll have to tune in October 15 to find out which ones. I promise I'm researching each topic and will make it worth the read! So what about the rest of you?? Are any of you planning on joining Blog Action Day? Do you have a topic in mind?

REVEALED: Snoopy Station

2010-10-03T19:58:00.010-05:00

I know I've been talking about this project for a long time, and I really hope you're not disappointed by the results. Remember back in the day when I told you I was done with the Snoopy Station? What was that...June? What is wrong with me??? (Million dollar question, folks...feel free to comment your answer...I would love to identify the problem). Anyway...it's done...it's been done...here it is:

And here's a little breakdown of how it came to be:

I scored this little cabinet from Salvation Army. It was in need for a makeover...but for just $3...I feel like I could manage.

(Yes I realize that's a Christmas tree behind it and this project is almost a year old...get off me) I'm not sure what it's called, but it had that cheap, old, "wood" finish that was glossy; not the greatest for painting. So with a little advice from my Brother-In-Law (his job he maintained in college was house renovations...convenient, right?), I manually sanded down the wood to the best of my ability.
He also advised me to use an oil-based paint. These are tricky because there is no coming back from these, no washing it out...it's permanent. So when using an oil based paint...be VERY careful. You should also NEVER add latex paint over oil paint (it will bubble). I am usually a commit-a-phobe, but I chose an oil-based paint because of the time of furniture I was painting. Always research before you paint!! Here is a Bob Villa breakdown on oil-paint; I also like to reference Young House Love for painting suggestions. I ended up doing 3 coats (the first coat soaked right into the sanded wood, the second almost covered it, but not quite, and the third did the trick).

Finally, I picked out cute little handles and carefully drilled them in so I would have to scrape at the doors to open it; and thus we put the "wow" in "bow-wow" (laugh all you want...that's the real name of a pet groomer in my hometown of Magnolia and my best friend, Justin, and I get TOO tickled about it)!

(fyi...that IAMS bag isn't usually there...it's usually stored in the canister..oops). As a bonus, it also serves as a second nightstand in my bedroom...as you may have seen from this post (that's it peaking over the right side of my bed). Quite functional, eh? So there ya have it! A full fledged nightstand/dog cabinet for my best pal and bed partner (she hogs the covers....and the bed for that matter). So what do you think....was it worth it? How about the other animal lovers out there?? What ways are you all making your home more pet friendly and functional? Snoop and I are always on the hunt for new ideas!

Making Wishes

2010-09-28T12:17:00.002-05:00

Well, friends.... I've made some huge changes in the past 3 months. Most recently, I am no longer an employee of Marketplace Grill. Although I hated being a server, I have never worked with better people. I am truly fortunate for the last 2 1/2 years. I am, however, officially an employee of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-South, here in Little Rock! It is just a temporary position, but I feel so blessed to have it. My life is changing like the beautiful fall leaves, and I couldn't be more thrilled. I'm also trying to take time to improve my overall health (fyi...I have no issues, but I would like to keep in that way). I don't want to be one of those girls that obsesses over how she looks, or count calories, or feel like I have to judge someone else to make myself feel better.

On a different note...I know I keep saying this, but I do plan to get back into blogging at least every other day. I already have two posts planned drop back in on me. I would also really love to know what ya'll would like to read from my blog? I have time to do extra research so let loose on me! Please, I want you to enjoy reading as much as I enjoy writing. As for now, I'm signing out. P.s.... Snoop sends her love.

Better than Coldplay...a happy cry.

2010-09-05T22:38:00.004-05:00

Just a quick post for something that tugged at my heart strings today. Meet my boo and possibly my most favorite person ever, Justin Sharp.

I love him with all of my heart...and everybody that knows him probably feels the same way.But this post isn't about him...It's actually about his incredible grandmother, Mary Francis Sharp. She and her husband, Ray, are two of the most amazing people I have ever met. They touch everyones life they meet. They are caring, giving, and I have never heard them utter the phrase, "I don't really have time." She used to play the organ in our church in Magnolia, attend every youth group event, and (even though I've never actually seen her do this) I wouldn't be suprised if I saw her lay in a mud puddle just so a friend wouldn't get wet and dirty. If I die with half the legecy of those two people, I would have lived an incredible life. Sadly, time has taken its toll. Mary Francis and Ray have many health issues and a failing memory. In fact, she can't remember much at all, but she can remember how to play the piano.

I'm telling you that to show you this. This is a documentary made by Justin's cousin of his grandmother. It is a testimate to the joy she brings the people around her. I'm not sure which made me tear up more, the video, or all the loving comments people posted below the video about her. Mary Francis is an angel, even if you don't know her, watch this video...I beleive it will touch your heart. Feel free to let me know what you think...I would love to hear it!

You and Me Could Write a Bad Romance

2010-08-30T14:47:00.008-05:00

The title of this post is dedicated to my blogging experience. I have a couple of warnings for you:

My posting will be schizophrenic. I thought that my computer has been crashed the past couple of months, come to find out it's just rediculous. Also, Ever since I moved I have decided to save money by not having internet or cable....2 months down and it's a struggle....mainly because I'm a news junky and I feel way out of the loop.

This is a long post....I'm giving my full update.So here we go...let's get the quick stuff over with first. I have officially received my diploma and I am a UCA Alumna. I have also completed my internship with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-South and I regaurd it as one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It was incredible. They even let me write a Marketing/PR plan for their Christmas Fundraiser all by myself and my director went on an on about how impressed with was with my work and my attention to detail (**ego boost**) unfortunately, I am still unable to find a job. All my interviewers have sent me wonderful e-mails about how impressed they were with me, but have people that are overqualified applying for the job, as well, because of the job market. So I can't decide....should that make me feel better or worse?

As I mentioned in my last post, I moved to Little Rock...and. I. LOOOOVVVEE. It! I seriously haven't felt like a town I've lived in was "home" until recently. I'm loving it all here: My roommate, my perfect little apartment, all the bistros, community activities, 15% wine Wednesdays (hhheeeeyyy). On top of that I live right in between the heights and hillcrest area, which I absolutley love: all the mom and pop shops, the old historic places mixed in with the new and modern renos -- my idea of heaven. So here is a little peak into my new crib

So here is the left side of my room, and a couple of things you fine folks can help me with: They will not let us paint these extremely white walls, but that wall is too big to do anything with that is also relatively cheap: any suggestions?

And here's the right side of my room with a beautiful view of my large screened in porch (jealous? You probably should be....). p.s., that "nightstand" on the right of my bed is acutally my snoopy station!! Updates coming soon.Here is the other side of my room, including my walk-in closet and my own bathroom (yay!). Can you believe my apartment manager (who are amazing, by the way) put in all new carpet and flooring (and a stove) for no extra charge to us??just a couple of views of my bathroom. I have to admit, it's pretty nice have an actual porcelin tub again; bubble baths are much more pleasant. I tried to give a fresh, spa-like, beachy feeling for cheap...are you feeling it?

Here's a couple of views of the kitchen. It's much smaller than my old one, but MUCH more affective with space. Plus we added up a cute little wine glass rack under one of the cabinets that helps, as well ;) (and yes, it really stays this clean all the time).This is my precious little dining room nook (trust me, in real life those chair covers do not blend in with the carpet that badly). This is one of my favorite areas of the house. Maybe it's because I love floating shelves, or maybe because I love eating, or maybe it's because that light fixture is WAY off-center and with the arrangement I made plus the overlapping of the shelves...it looks straight on ;) so proud....This is also a fun little conversation piece...that modern decor cost me less than $50 and involves swirled decorative balls, black panty hose, and towel rack...what up DIY??? NOW REVEALING: my first big-girl purchase...my new couches and pillows:) (and my roommates foot since she wouldn't jump in a picture). Anyway, I lurve them. The loveseat, couch, protective coating, and 7 pillows all for less than $800 (baby gurl did her homework!). Let me just go on a quick rant...if you ever buy new couches...PLEASE spend money on the protective coating. See these cream couches? I spilt a full glass of red wine ALL OVER it and it came out with nothing but a damp, white cloth....magical. By the way, this picture is something I wipped up in a couple of minutes just to tie in the pillows. Kristy (the roommate) loves it...i hate it. I want it to be edgier and more contemporary. Any suggestions? I would love to throw some black in there.

and finally here are a couple of pictures at my roommates room...just for fun.I would really love to know what you fine folks think of the new pad....and any suggestions about those dang white walls. As for now, I'm signing out. Reeces Pieces, friends!

Something old, something new.

2010-06-16T22:11:00.002-05:00

In no way was that a wedding reference, btw. This blog is stictly for updates......well, I guess it kind of is, because my BESTEST friend in the world, Brittany (over at Arteestic), is getting MARRIED!!!!!! But more on that later. This whole "not having internet" thing is not working out so well; so here are a few changes you can expect over the next few weeks....

I'm moving to LITTLE ROCK with my pal Kristy. One thing you should know is that I've never been so excited about moving into an apartment as I am about this one....so get ready for some obsessive (so very useful) posts about moving, researching, cleaning, aranging, and painting (Kristy and I both paint and we both love abstract so I can't wait for us to do some artwork together). Oh, Kristy is also an interior designer...so you all can learn things while I learn them, as well.
My parents are also moving...to a gorgeous house (but one that can definitly use some upgrades..and they are so letting me head that up) So be looking for the same updates from a different point of view...and a different style...because my moms is way different than mine.
This is all happening by July 1...so when that's over I plan to pick up blogging again full force
Like I said...Brittany is so getting married...and she has officially asked me to be her Maid of Honor....and trust me...I am every bit of honored. That was one of the best feeling so of my life...and I plan to live up to her expectations -- even if we are 8 hours apart. So I will share the expereince with you all, as well (so FREAKIN excited)
Snoopy Station is finished...let me get into my new apartment and I will so show ya!

That's about all the major updates I have for now...stay tuned.

Whatcha got cookin?

2010-06-03T01:19:00.002-05:00

I had a couple of requests for recipes since I've been blogging. I want you to know that I am adhearing to your request! I am currently trying to build a recipe library. I'll go ahead and throw some teasers at you. As you already know, Zack and I are total opposites that get along like the greatest, oldest friends. One thing we do have in common is our love to cook. Not only can you BOTH enjoy it, but it's an act that takes effort instead of commercial items (I'm pretty freaking shocked at the amount of girls that get their boy toys stuffed animals.......REALLY???). Anyway, I present to you -- Lauren's Romantic Dinner for two!

First, there are a few items I suggest you keep on hand: I got this tablecloth for less than $10 at TJMaxx in the clearance section. It is an elegant, shiny white and spill resistant (trust me--I spilled red wine all over this table cloth and just shook it off, this is the after picture...can you tell??) I also used a few candels I had on hand.

For the food set-up shown above. I have set up basic dinner plates, two forks (salad and dinner) a knife and a spoon. I also have a water glass and a wine glass (I love my vino), and of course, a salad plate.

I start of the course but trimming the edge of a martini glass with coctail shrimp and filled with coctail sauce. That way my boo can be satisfying his taste buds while I'm mixing the salad. Shown here is a simple Caesar salad, but I often like to toss up an Olive garden salad. I also get french bread (I have since switched to multigrain french bread) and sweep it with olive oil and sea salt butter with a bit of garlic powder, parmesean, and parsley. For the "dipping oil" I but various italian spices (basil, oregeno, etc), red pepper flakes, and top it off with olive oil.

The main course can, of course, be created through your specific taste. I will begin to post some more recipes for main courses. Here's a little website to get you started:

http://www.copykat.com/

It is my fav! I've been trying to stop going out to eat as much to save money, and with this website, I can have them at home!

Some of my favs include:

Olive Garden Spinach and Artichoke dip

Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocci soup and their signiture salad. (can you tell I love Olive Garden?)

Anyway, let me know what you think! Leave a comment and let me know your favorite recipes that I might want to look up...Thanks!

A quilt is worth 1000 words

2010-05-17T17:17:00.006-05:00

I have to take the time to commend my mother on her creativity. She is definition: woman who does not give herself enough credit. She and my dad showered me with gifts for my college graduation...but I'll spare you the bragging and move right on to a gift that anybody could do. She made me a quilt...but not just any quilt....

That is a quilt Mama B made out of t-shirts that represent my life...some which I haven't seen in YEARS. It's big enough to be a comforter and is oh-so cozy!

For all of my readers that are familiar with the Magnolia Blossom Festival (a festival from my hometown of Magnolia, Arkansas), she has kept every shirt from the beginning and almost has enough to make her very own MBF t-shirt quilt! Isn't this a wonderful idea for all of you new mothers...or frankly, for any who has dedicated their life to something and has the t-shirt to prove it(retirement travels?)! The possibilities are endless! What do you think? I wanna hear what your quilt would consist of...Do tell!

****Update: I scored the internship with Make-A-Wish Foundation and I will be creating their marketing/PR plan for their "Letters from Santa" fundraiser (among other things...this is just the one I'm most excited about -- I can't beleive they're giving me such responsibility!). I would like to continue looking for jobs, though, so keep your ears perked for me! Thanks you all!

Guess who's back, sucka???

2010-05-11T11:08:00.006-05:00

That's right! ME...kind of.

Ya see, this has been a rough semester for me (mentally not emotionally) and I had to give up some things to keep my focus. The whole "kind of" comment refers to the fact that I have no internet at my house except for this one tiny spot on my back porch. Although it is ispirational (since I have a forest behind my house), it's not ideal for blogging. So I can't promise that I will write again everyday. What I CAN promise is that I am a renewed blogger. I have SOOO much to tell you guys! Here's a recap of my life and a teaser for new posts.

1.(I'm going to start with March because I can't remember anything before that) I turned 23! (psst...you're welcome for that flashback) and had a phenomenal birthday!

2. For my birthday (among many other fabulous gifts) I FINALLY got a new bed! Not kidding, my last bed was a full size that was found under a house in Hot Springs, Arkansas and was born in 1973. I've been eyeing a new organic bed since John and Sherry posted about how wonderful their new bed was. Unfortunately the one I wanted was $3,000 (boo). Guess what? I got it anyway! No, no, no...not for $3,000 (that's just insanity), for $300!!! My parents scored that price through an incredible club they joined (psst....if you want to find out all the juicy details about my new bed, vote for a post in the comment section)!

3. I've changed up my room and living room a we bit, and I must say....WAY more fuctional and less cluttered (vote fo this post, perhaps?)

4. I participated in my first photoshoot. I have to say I was the only one out of the crew that didn't take it extremely seriously...but it was TOO fun!

5. Oh yeah...I GRADUATED!!! Yes, Saturday I strutted across the stage under the enormous #33 jersey (UCA retired Scotty Pippen's college jersey a few months ago and we are still vomitting his memorabilia) to receive my fake diploma...don't worry, the real one comes soon. I now own a degree (Bachelor of Science) in Public Relations and after this murderous semester...I have a pretty stellar portfolio to prove it. So...if you folks hear of any job openings in that department...holler at yo gurl! I'm willing to move! I will tell you this...I'm interviewing for an internship with Make a Wish Foundation on Wednesday (yes, this will be my second internship). So I'll have to keep you updated with that.

I'll start you off with those 5. Now that I'm back, what would you guys like to hear more about? Any of these posts? Recipes? Spring Cleaning? Unleash it on me! I Missed ya'll!

I'd Like to Thank the Academy....

2010-03-12T19:07:00.005-06:00

Looky here what I done got! My dear friend, Kelsey, over at Writing Left Handed sent me my very first award! How special do I feel (yes, that was a statement, not a question)!

When accepting this award, I also accepted the rules that came with it:

1. Post this award.......did I pass???

2. Thank the person that gave it to you: Kelsey, you're a baller...Thanks, Lady!

3. Pass this award on to seven people that you think embody the spirit Kreative Blogger Award
(they are listed below)

4. Name 7 things about yourself that others do not know about you. (also below)

5. Notify the 7 other bloggers and post a link to their blog. (OK!)

OK...So a little about me first:

I would first like to note that this is REALLY hard because I'm an open book. I could list tons of random facts like my love of severe storms (and tornadoes!), my love for my mini beagle, my obsession with Michael Jackson...etc.

1. I'm actually a really good cook. I could brag about myself for a while but here's an example: Zack hated and refused to eat seafood before we dated. Now, it's his favorite food. I'm pretty effin amazing...so much that he suggested I put this one on the list (your welcome, boo). Summer, this is your chance to brag about how great my homemade salsa is.

2. I really miss my Labrador, Jericho, who passed away last year. Someone even made me bawl one time because they told me there wasn't a doggy heaven. He was everything a dog should be.

3. I should probably move to Thailand or Japan. That is my idea of a beautiful, simple, peaceful life. I love the structures and lush vegetation, the simple people and sparkling oceans (if you can't tell by my layout). I've been reading about feng shui (not in the religious aspect) but for the serenity aspect...I'm more curious. Anyway, I love it and that is what brings me to my next point...

4. I meditate. No really, as insane and out there as it sounds it has changed my life. It's not all the Indian style sitting and "ommm"....even though I do enjoy that. It's about getting your head clear in a place where you feel like there is no effort for your body to be here. It leaves me feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and ready to take on the world.

5. Billie Jean is not my lover. (ah....my Michael Jackson obsession continues)

6. I once almost died from meningitis....one of the worst times in my life and I can remember it clear as day.....even though any other time I'd have the memory of a goldfish.....

7. Sometimes I can actually smell what the Rock is cooking.

WHEW!! I feel so narcissistic now! On to people I love!!

1. Erin at A person's a person no matter how small -- she's feisty and gorgeous...a dangerous combo!
2. My best friend foreverest, B. Millaaaaa over at Arteestic (seriously....if you're not following her....you're insane).
3.My girl, Jennifer, over at A day in Jenn Jenn's shoes . She's smart and has a unique outlook on life....a very interesting young lady!
4. My dear, dear friend Summer at Colclasure Charm. One of the most encouraging and loving people I have ever met...its why I love her so much.
5. Kaley at Something to Cheer about...she's one of the prettiest and healthiest people I know, If your wanting to enhance these areas of your life...her blog is for you.
6. My sorority sista, Ashley, at Dimples and Cupcakes....as far as crafts are concerned, she one of the most talented people I've ever encountered...she most def. deserves this award!
7. Last is a lady I do not know...but she seems like the alpha female...Pioneer woman....not kidding, check out her website, then tell 5 friends.

Well guys....I would like to say I promise I'll be a better blogger, but it's not true. Right now I'm in my last semester of school (which involves a $5000 campaign for Lions World Services for the Blind and taking up an enormous amount of my free time), working as a server, catering, working at my internship for a foundation, now teaching for my E-Troupe dance team, and filling free time applying for jobs, meeting with established PR professionals...etc. So there's my life but I do have some really great blogs coming up for you soon!! Stay tuned!!

I think a change is a'commin!

2010-02-09T10:38:00.003-06:00

Hopefully this post pulled you in to my blog....when suddenly, your attention went towards my STUNNING new background. I'm sure you've heard me gush about my best friend, Brittany, over at Arteestic about 100 times, but she never ceases to amaze me. Anyway, I got a text from her the other day and this is about how it played out.

Brittany: "check out my new blog post now"
me: (after checking it out) "that is AWESOME, put it on my background NOW"
Brittany: "Done, I thought you could use something a little more towards spring" (she gets me, because she knows after New Years I am DONE with winter)
me: "wait would you mind making the green sides look a little bit more like subtle bamboo?"
**literally less than one minute later***
Brittany: "OK it's up go check it out"

It's perfect...I love it....she gets me. She'll get you, too. The girl lives in Houston and is getting more clients every month. For a VERY limited time she'll be doing blog designs for free --just because this is new for her and she wants to get her designs out there. She will start charging soon, though, so hurry! I'm curious to see if she'll make your designs as perfect as she makes mine. What do you think?? Are you interested in her giving you a blog makeover?? How about my design?? doesn't it fit me perfectly??

pssst: If your interested in Brittany giving you a blogging face lift, ask her about her blog designs, too. She can create a blog with applications to fit YOU! Check out more of her work at her website and on facebook here and here. You can see it's not just me that thinks she's wonderful.

Color my world

2010-01-30T21:21:00.006-06:00

It's been so long, and I haven't seen your face, I gotta be strong, but the strength I have is washing away. Yes I'm dedicating that song to my blog. Let see if we can fit in a few randoms to swiftly update you with my life, shall we?

*Takes a hit of the inhaler*

-I've pretty much decided that Robin Thicke might give my love of Brian McKnight a run for its money....must. have. his. "sex therapy."album. NOW.

-Guess who gets to work on a real live Hollywood movie set next week??????? Yeah...its me...no....i'm not kidding. THIS IS NOT A DRILL. EEEEKK!!

-I would like to take this time to thank HP Pavilion 6500 for their DYNAMITE batteries and AC adapters....I"m going on #3 for each right now...explaining my gaps in blogging.

OK so on to blogging.

I've talked to a few people ask me questions about Photoshop and well....I suck. Actually, at this point I'm just bad, I don't suck anymore because I learned a few skillz, ya'll!

I believe it is called "colorsplash"

and here is what it does:

See how everything is in black and white except me and Snoop? (ps...this is the moment we met)

There is a great blog I love to follow called All Bower Power and Katie (the mastermind) actually created the little tutorial on it. Just click on the link above to see that post. Now Katie is a little more meticulous than was, but at least you can get the basic idea. Plus, she also links you up with an A-MAZing blog by Pioneer woman (Summer...I imagine you will love this blog). Anyway, it will take you through few steps such as these:

and you could end up with something like the first picture I posted...or maybe you would like to make one of you and your Shawty like this one:So what's the verdict? love? hate? need more? did you miss me?? spill it!

This is the Air I Breathe

2010-01-30T17:13:00.007-06:00

I was recently shocked by an innocent question brought up in class. A teacher was making a joke about how dependent Americans are and as a joke she said, "ladies, raise your hand if you can change your home air filter." Two girls raised their hand. TWO. Out of 16.....and I was one of them. Ladies...changing your air filter is one of the easiest and best things you can do for your home.

because it drastically lowers the amount of dust and allergens in your home

it's one of the least expensive things you can do to maintain your conditioning system

You boy toy will be quite impressed with you.

The dust and allergens can actually damage you conditioning system. Anyway...you need to know. Thank God you have me. Seriously.

STEP 1: Pick the air filter of your choice...just make sure it's the right size. You can usually find this information by checking the filter size that's already in there...for instance, mine is a 20X25.

You can have a cheap one like this:

Here's the rundown: This air filter works fine...at the very least, it will help maintain your system. If you are on a budget, this might be the way to go. The main downside I would say is that you have to change this out every month.

Now I have mostly bought the Allergen Reducer from Filtrate, but i cheated on it...and I have to tell you why: I have had a sinus infection, allergy attacks, and asthma attacks for a little over 2 years. It got to the point where I felt like death every other day and I HAD IT. I marched down to Home Depot with fire in my eyes. Can I just say...one of the main reasons I love Home Depot is because the people in there are SO FREAKING NICE AND HELPFUL. Anyway, They highly recommended that I splurged for the $20 air filter...I was extremely skeptical...after all, an air filter is an air filter, right? Oh well, I was so sick and apathetic and the nice people were the highlight of my day...so I went for it. Check out all the amenities this sucka has to offer:

OK...I know that's blurry (thanks, camera) but it traps pollen, dust mites, pet allergens, and odors just to name a few....and did you notice that number in the top left??? It blocks out 93% off allergens....NINETY-THREE PERCENT. I have got to tell you...I didn't give this filter a chance, and it STILL proved me wrong....I WILL NEVER GO BACK!! I haven't even had to blow my nose since I've had it! Also, I don't have to change it for 3 months...who knew the right filter made that big of a difference?? It does..it really does.

Would you like to see it next to my old filter??

YOWZAS!!

STEP 2: Take the cover off of your...errr...filtering area? (see below). Mine had just two clips holding it up so this step is fairly easy.

STEP 3: check the arrows on the filter...This is the direction of the air flow. For the record, the arrows should be pointing away from you.

STEP 4: put the grates back on and bask in the glory that you can do an easy household chore that apparently most ladies can not.

So how bout it girls? Did most of you find this tutorial helpful? Any opinions on the filters?? Good luck filtering!

Baret inspiration: my version of house crashing

2010-01-30T17:12:00.006-06:00

I have no clue what my home style is, but I think I've narrowed it down to natural-exotic. I want my home to be an escape...kind of cave like.

Jumping subject a bit: one of my favorite blogs does a segmant called "house crashing." Now I don't personally care to continue this, but I have one exception: my friend, Baret.

He lives in a fabulous guest house in Magnolia...and his style is quite close to capturing what I would like in my future home...enjoy.

First...can we discuss the breathtaking fireplace????? OH EM GEE!!!! I mean...I would elaborate...but look at it. I love the dark brick and black stone frame. Second, LOVE THE WALL COLOR!!! beautiful subtle blue. I must have it.... I also love Barets fabulous decorations! the grass and the white head on the table; different, but I love it!I'm sorry, but I had to show you this lamb because I'm jealous!!!! I'll quit talking, just stare at it...make sure drool doesn't get on the keyboard!

This is the other side of his living room. I LOVE this mirror. Doesn't it look like a waterfall cutting through the room?

p.s....ignore the right side...that's Barets painting station...want to see the result that is now hanging in my kitchen??

Another room favorite...I love how he uses the blues, browns and blacks; then makes everything pop with almond colored accents.

So what do ya'll think? Doesn't this room just make you feel cozy and tucked away?

Cleaning out my closet

2010-01-30T17:11:00.015-06:00

Remember when I showed you my emergency kit?

Would you love to know how I can about this idea? Probably not but you should hear it anyway. I cleaned out my only storage closet. Did you hear me?? ONLY STORAGE! So it needed some organization to make sure everything fit and was easy to find. Here's what the closet looked like before:

Did you just get stressed out? Take a moment...breath, we don't need blogging panic attacks. This is what I have now:

And here is the breakdown:

On the top shelf: My favorite childhood comforter (very broken in) and 2 pillows. This is my "guest Shelf," for when people need to use my couch to crash.

Second shelf: this is my decorations shelf. Where I keep all my candles, wall decor...etc. That way if I ever get the itch to mix things up a bit...I can! Convenient.

Third shelf: All my awesome and favorite blankets and my emergency kits

Top shelf: Obviously my games and Scrapbooking things are kept here. I've since made it a place for fabric and sewing kits

Second(or actually fifth) shelf: My sub woofer (R.I.P.), and my expandable folder......One of the greatest things of my life. It harbors receipts, UCA files, special documents such as my duplex lease, PR notes. Things of that such...I keep anything that I think could be important in there.

Last shelf (or floor): My car washing kit, floral sprays (not necessarily floral....more bamboo, willow, and peasant leaves), ab roller, volleyball....things of that such.

Anyway, There are my little organization suggestions. So do you guys have organization skills that make you tick? Any O.C.D. like tendencies with organization?

It's Electrifyin'!

2010-01-30T17:11:00.008-06:00

As you you all know, we received a ridiculous amount of snow/ice/madness from this weekend.... Now in Central Arkansas, the weather was a lovely winter wonderland. On the other hand, I saw that in Oklahoma, the same storm caused major power outages. It got me to thinking about how prepared I would be if the same happened to me? Hence: setting aside a small corner of my storage closet as my Emergency station.

as you can see my emergency corner comes complete with a bonafide emergency kit: complete with...well everything...every kind of bandaid and stitching device made for amateurs. I also have all my wraps and braces in the corner for people with bad joints like myself, two working flashlights, 2 umbrellas (in case we have to get to the breaker outside), 3 candles and a lighter. Also to the left of this area is my stack o' blankets on the left for cold-no-electricity-no-generator nights. For most emergency brochures they also tell you to have a battery radio on hand...but who has those anymore???

oh wait...

I do.

This stunna:

I'm a proud owner of the blue one. I will tell you that this was one of my favorite Christmas presents this year. They are fabulous! They work very well and just boost me right up to an "exceptional" in the emergency readiness department. schweet.

So do any of you kind folks have any extra tips or supplies you keep on standby?? Stay safe!

It Doesn't Matter if You're Black or White

2010-01-30T17:09:00.007-06:00

I've always been a great fan of black and white photos. I think they add character to an ordinary picture....they focus on the story behind a picture rather than a color quality.

This picture was taking of the tornado clouds moving over Conway (the same clouds that dropped a tornado in Clinton). In color...the focus was on the lush green grass a beautifully flowered tree on the right. When I changed it to black and white, attention is drawn to the swirling clouds and reflecting street --this focuses on the points of the picture the story compares to.

I've become interested in another aspect of black and white photography....restoration. Check these pictures out:

The picture of the right is actually one of my Christmas gifts this year. It's a picture of me and my daddy, hand-in-hand, looking off into the deer woods. We had on our bright orange vests and camo. By taking this picture to black and white, she captured the moment a father shared with his daughter -- and the relationship. This picture was taken circa 1990 so not too much restoration was needed. she just altered the quality and contrast and blew it up to a 5X7

The picture on the left is my pride and joy. While my parents were moving I volunteered to help them go through old keepsakes. My dad found an old box. In the box every payment receipt he got from paying off my mother's engagement ring -- along with two pictures of my mom. One picture was his "favorite" picture of my mother--and let me tell you, she looked like a model -- the other picture was the one you see above. It was taken the day after my dad proposed (you can't see the engagement ring but its totally there). It is was a 4X5 photograph in that hazy 70s color (this picture was taken in 1973).

I took it down to Walgreens, changed it to black and white, added contrast enhancements, blew it up to an 8X10 (in this step I also cropped it) and...TADA!!!!!

Doesn't the picture look much more modern?? Seriously...how gorgeous is my mom? What do you think about the idea of black and white restoration?

Peace & Love, Readers!!

Since we've no place to go...let it snow!

2010-01-30T00:29:00.008-06:00

What has two thumbs, freckles, and just found a corner in her house that occasionally picks up Internet?????? THIS CHICK! AND my friend gave me a new computer charger so my computer works now!!! So I'm....kind of back?? Anyway, If you didn't know every time you surfed by the Weather Channel...we got snow....and ice...lots of it.

This much....

That is my back porch. It was so gorgeous with the full moon lighting up my neighborhood....it truly did give a luster of midday.

So how did we spend this lovely day???

1. We made my mommas Mexican Buffet

1 lb. ground beef

1 sm can tomato sauce

1 can of enchilada sauce'

1 tsp. cumin

1 can pinto beans (drained)

salt & pepper to taste

--Brown ground meat, drain fat, then add all other ingredients. I like to put this mixture in the crock pot to help marinate the spices....believe it or not it actually tastes best if you leave it in the refrigerator over night.....if you're patient.....which I'm not....so the crock pot sufficed.

Serve with: corn chips (I love Tostitos multi grain), meat mixture (the one from above), grain cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes. You can also make rotel cheese dip and top it off....I don't' like it this way but everyone else does. Anyway, Layer every thing in the above order and enjoy. I can honestly say this is one of my moms classics that she's made a LOT and I have never heard one complaint about it. I.E. I always choose to make a double batch because people love it so much....and there STILL wasn't any left for me to take a picture for the blog! Cheap and easy and abundant.

We let the meal settle by playing a little Clue--my ultimate favorite board game.

Even though my game face is OBVIOUSLY more intimidating than his....Zack won (don't' worry, we didn't play with just us, some friends joined). Then moved on to the second greatest game ever....

On Wii....

Dance Dance Revolution!!

seessssyyy!

So there ya go....sure fire ways to keep cabin fever from setting in on frigid days! How about you guys?? Any tips for fighting of "the Shining" (hhhheeeeerrreee's Johnny!!)?? Stay warm!

Martha, Martha, Martha!

2010-01-21T00:16:00.005-06:00

Yes, I'm talking about Martha Stewart...although I have had my issues with the lady in the past, I discovered something about a month ago that had me praising her name!

About a month ago I was trotting through home depot to get the trimmings for my "Snoopy Station" (pictures coming soon....I swear), when I came across these bad boys:

Martha Stewart has an eco-friendly cleaning line!They are made from 99% plant and mineral based biodegradable ingredients. As a bonus, they are EPA Design for the Environment certified. Bonus: they are non-toxic so my sweet Snoopy can stay safe. Even though they're SLIGHTLY on the pricier side, I had to give it a shot. I tried the Bathroom Cleaner and can I say...A+!!! It's my favorite cleaner right after Mr. Clean's Magic Eraser (....Dear Martha....maybe...an ecofriendly magic eraser for you line??.......pretty please??). I'm definitly recommending this to all that are trying to make their home a safer environment. So what do you guys think?? have you tried it yet??

Ready, Set, GO!!!

2010-01-16T14:15:00.006-06:00

So this past year, I tried to only blog on weekdays...which is INSANE because I'm not AS busy on the weekends!! So maybe this obvious revelation will help me be a better blogger!

I guess I'll start off with the most inspiring person I know...how lucky am I to also call her my best friend??? Brittany over at Arteestic has done it again! I'm sure you all remember Brittany...the insanely gifted lady that designed my blog. The one that can draw, color, paint portraits, paint murals, create web designs...the list goes on!! Well if you can beleive it, she's added something ELSE to her list...somthing that drove me to make an obsessive phone call begging her to open a store catering to this one day......are you ready??

......are you sitting down?

......are you as excitable as I am??

INVITATIONS!!! I know...an anticlimatic delivery...but wait til you see these bad boys!!!! OH EEMMM GEEEEEEEEEE!!!

1. Brittany was asked to design a New Orleans inspired invitation for a vow renewal. Here's the first design:

Talented right???? I mean...she created every piece!

2. But it wasn't exactly what her client was looking for...so she whipped this up:

Fa-reaking amazing! But wait!!! there's more!!!

How incredible is that???? I L-O-V-E the last one!!! So romantic! But it still has the new orleans feel her client wanted!!!

Also, in December, she created her own Christmas card:

Just so you know, that looks just like Brittany and her boyfriend, Tyler. Right down to the camo and artistic stockings, the wall picture of their first house, and the portrait...ps. These are legit...I've got one!

Poor Brittany doesn't know what she got herself in to....she's already signed up for every major event of my life from here on out. So what do ya'll think?? How incredible are these????

***computer update....there isn't one, I literally have 5 big projects I can't wait to show you but HAVE to wait to show you because my pictures won't upload to Zack's computer....booo!

Bring me to Life!

2010-01-04T20:21:00.003-06:00

No this isn't a depressing post...it's week four of my life without computer or internet.....Oh, yeah! Forgot to tell you...I cancelled my internet subscription as well....it never worked...and I was paying almost $60 to rent a modem and for the actual service

Fail.....

BIG time!

Never Fear!! I'm getting pretty creative with this binnnesss ("business" for all you white folks). One of my biggest problems is that I'm using my boo boo's computer and it won't FREAKING upload my pictures!!

BOO Toshiba!! Gecho game right!

In the mean time, I thought I would supply you with a little "what I'm digging list"

1. PAN-freaking-DORA
I was first introduced to Pandora by John and Sherry over at Young House Love with this post.

one word: OBSESSED. like.....I'm probably going to cheat on Zack with Pandora....and then we can have little Kurt Cobain babies. Speaking of which....this is how it works: You can sign up for an account FO FREE!!! Then, you type in an artist that you are a particular fan of and it will come up with a custom playlist for you that could be associated with the artist or song you chose. For example: I typed in "Nirvana".....because I will forever and always love them. It didn't play the standard Nirvana songs....it began by playing "Heart-Shaped box." Then followed by playing songs that left me screaming "OOOOOHHHHHH EEEEEEEEEEMMMMM GEEEEEEEEEEEEE, HOW DOES IT KNOW?!?!?!"....songs like "Say it Ain't So," "Black-Hole Sun," and "Bittersweet Symphony." So, LOVE: it listens to me, caters to my needs, dependable, thoughtful. In fact, the only "fail" Pandora had was Greenday....how did it get that from Nirvana??? Owell, I can overlook the flaw....that's what love is right? I'll quit obsessing so it doesn't add Mariah Carey to my playlist.....

2. Restored black and white photos.

I found a BEAUTIFUL picture of my mom right after her and my dad got engaged......i'm talking stunning: She looked like a model (pose: looking down at a flower). So I headed down to Walgreens and with the help of the AWESOME photo specialist (Thanks, Pete) blew the picture up to be an 8X10, made it black and white, and enhanced the photo. It looks A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. In fact, my mom was so inspired that she gave me a 5X7 of me and me daddy (Pose: when I was 3...it was a picture of me and my daddy hand-in-hand looking out into the forest at my dad's old deer camp). I want to show you these pictures SOO bad...but it must wait until my cam-tra (trashy camera) cooperates.

3. Goodwill and Salvation army

Simple as that. Do yourself and your community a favor: clean out your house. Here's the rule: if you haven't used it in the past 6 months and it doesn't hold any significant value to you then get rid of it.....DONATE IT! the money will be used to help the less fortunate in your community....My pile is ready to go....AAAANNNNDDD it's a tax write off, hhhhaaaaayyyyy!

4. Burrlington Coat factory home Decor section

I must say.....Touche BCT...touche.

I stole this picture from Google images....but they just don't have pictures of Burlington home decor in the medium. Anyway, for Christmas I scored a STELLAR lamp from there that I just can't wait to show you. I was almost as excited looking around in there as I am skipping through T.J. MAXX. Check it out, yo!

That is going to have to complete my list for the night, probably more to come, though, so stay tuned!!! Anything you guys are especially digging lately??? Let me know, I might dig it, as well.

Dear 2010, I will own you.

2010-01-02T12:17:00.003-06:00

I have a good excuse why I'm a poopy blogger this time...my computer is out. Have no fear!!! My amazing boyfriend has let me borrow his computer for the next few days...he is too kind to me!

So how do I give you an update on my life without boring you to death?? I'll do my best (deep breath)

1. had an amazing Christmas...extra excited about having my bike fixed

2. call me superstitious....but even years are typically my worst....however, I'm having an EXTRA good feeling about 2010.....BRING IT!

On that note...I'm going to put the past behind me and set my sights forward. It has been a crazy month.

Now....how about some New Year resolutions???

1. Start a Savings account...I know, I should have
already done it, but I've always used my checking
account as one...not smart considering it doesn't
gain interest.

2. Continue on to being better with going green

3. Beef up my computer skillz, yo!! woooord....

4. Graduate and get a career-job

5. work on my home improvement skills

6. Improve my overall health. I don't want to be cliche
with the whole "lose weight" thing. I have been a lot better
about eating healthier. This year, I'm going to try to walk
Snoopy everyday, practice yoga every night before I go to
bed, learn belly dancing (thanks, FitTV, I'm addicted), and
get plenty of use out of my bike.

That's all I have for now, I will probably be adding more throughout the month because I would love to use my blog as my accountability partner...how about you guys??? I would love to hear about your resolutions! Also, what would you like to see from me this year???

Adventful

2009-12-12T16:31:00.006-06:00

We all know that Jesus is the reason for the season-- but sometimes we all need reminding. One of the best reminders I have in my house is my advent wreath. It is completely DIY and makes a lovely centerpiece for my table! So today I'm going to show you how to make your very own Advent Wreath!! Step right up!

If you're like me and your advent knowledge went as far as bringing mom a bundle of holly and candle from your Sunday School class, then you may want to check out yo knowledge huuurrrr.

STEP 1. Hide that greeeen!

I used a wreath shaped green foam board from Hobby Lobby. Then, covered the edge of it with red ribbon.

STEP 2: Insert candles and greenery

to keep it rather cheap I found a very small wreath to set tight on the top. Then stick 4 candles of your choice on the outside four "corners" and a large candle in the middle. I believe the website above suggests using purple candles, however; I prefer using red and white for two reasons (no...it has nothing to do with the Magnolia Panthers.....boo for you if that crossed your mind!). 1. I like to keep Christmas Traditional. 2. I wanted each of the four white candles to represent purity...my Jesus' love was in the purest form after all. The candle in the center (the one that stands for Jesus...to be lit on Christmas) Is red, to remind us of the sacrifice that the sweet baby we celebrate was destined to make. (Here is my favorite Christmas Song to go along with that btw!)

STEP 3: Well now we have to cover that awful Styrofoam now don't we??

I picked up some small sprays from Hobby Lobby...50% off I might add! I bought 2 to go in between each candle, and then four more for each place setting at my table.

And that's all, folks!!! Was an easy DIY to remind you to stop every week of December and celebrate! What's the word??? Do you have any DIY projects fo' Jesus??

A pick me up...if you feel like me.

2009-12-08T08:53:00.003-06:00

Don't worry, you all know that I walk around this time of year vomiting Christmas, but I wanted to break from that for a special post. ****I want to warn you, first and foremost, that this is a very, very personal post about my life. It is very emotional, but because of that, I hope you find advice within it.***As most of you know, I am approaching graduation in May. I have gone through many struggles in the past 5 years. It started with deep depression...that, in all honesty, was getting close to costing me my life...and in some ways already did. I began to hate most people because I didn't see how the human race could be so cruel and selfish...and sadly some of the worse cases I saw "did it for God's glory." I became agnostic and lost myself. I hated who I was, and became attracted to damaging things because they were the only things that still made me cry -- and that negative emotion was better than the lack of emotion I felt most of the time. That story is not the purpose of this post. I told you that to tell you that I have incredible people in my life now...one's who serve a living and loving God....a god that want to see me succeed....not a malicious god: A God I can trust and believe in. Now you know the reason for the title and subtitle of my blog. I have beat depression and depleted the negativity in my life, but there is one thing I have yet to overcome: anxiety.

Now I swore when I started blogging that I want people to get benifits and enjoyment out of reading my blog...and I wanted to dedicate it to crafts, how tos, cheap fix-its, great services, well-being....I will most likely never post something of this nature again, because it's not my style, and although it helped shape me...it is not who I am now...but, please, keep reading...it has a happy ending, I promise :)

But back to the anxiety thing.... I believe people who lack purpose also lack something to believe in. Even though I believe in God, I worry every day that I will not serve his purpose for me. I believe my purpose is in serving, itself. More than anything in the world I want to dedicate myself to helping others...to fighting for people who are unable to fight for themselves...however, I have always felt like I have a white whale (Moby Dick reference). Right now, it is the economy, nonprofits are being hit the hardest. It is also the facts that I don't know how to find those things or that I don't have an "addicting" personality....and I'm fine with that, but many other people aren't. I also am casting my fears in God...(in reference to Peter walking on water) I'm trying to focus on Jesus instead of the waves around me....but just like Peter, it's been difficult....

(here's the part I think you'll enjoy) Today I found a posted note on Facebook. It was posted by a girl I knew in middle school from (I believe) her advisor. I've heard inspiration speeches and "You'll be fine" so many times....which is why I love this note, this guy addresses that. Therefore, I'm compelled to share it with you, and I hope it finds you like it did me (keep in mind the note is to a girl named "Kristin" or "KK")

"Kristin, my intelligent young friend, life is very, VERY short. And the days we have to enjoy are brief. You have now what most would trade their lives to have. Youth and freedom. What seems terrifying and overwhelming is in fact the greatest opportunity of your life. If you don't have a clear plan, find a place that you love and go there to enjoy life while you plan. You can get a job waiting tables anywhere until you can find something better. Get your head together in this beautiful place and make it the launching pad for your next adventure. My experience has taught me that there is no way to know for sure what that adventure may be or what doors will open for you once you are in this new environment. But one thing is certain. If you do not follow your joys and loves, you will never find them. Dreams must be pursued and you have a guide within you that tells you when you are on the right path.

Make a list of the things you love to do. Ask yourself how you can build your life around these things. When you are inspired to do something, people around you are inspired to help you. Doors will open for you that would not open for anyone else. I have seen it happen. It isn't magic, but it will feel like it. Don't get discouraged. Believe in yourself. Others will too. When you get older, you will regret the things you didn't do far worse than the ones you did. Dreams should be as big as the sky, KK. Dream big. You have nothing to lose. You will never starve. You will never be on the street. No real reason to feel fear, but if you ever do, use it to motivate yourself to be more than the challenge facing you. Each time you overcome an obstacle, you grow stronger. The truly successful know this. You know this too. I'm not telling you anything you don't already know. The trick is to believe. Believe in your ability to find your path to your wonderful future and it WILL appear.

Everyone needs four things. First, a belief in a Higher Power. We didn't create ourselves and we are not in control of everything. In times of great suffering (and everyone faces them), turn here. Release your worries. Feel the weight lift off of your shoulders. Be mindful of this loving Source all the time. You are never alone.

Second, someone to love. The highest purpose of our lives is to love. When you love, be selfless and never take love for granted. Even when you get hurt, allow yourself to love again. True love nurtures the one loving. Always.

Third, something to do. Focus on tasks of purpose. Work. Feel good about the things you do. All honest work is honorable. Have healthy rituals of comfort to reward yourself and give your daily life structure.

Fourth, dreams. Dreams of your greatest ambitions. Dreams that you will one day make true. Dream big. And realize that all the people you admire were once right where you are now. The difference between them and others is that they pursued their dreams when so many quit or never started. The difference between you and them is only time. They made it. So can you. But you've got to believe it is possible. It is, KK. I believe in you. And so do all the people who know and love you.

Okay, I have taken enough of your brief time on planet Earth with this speech. I know this isn't advising for a specific academic path, but it is what I would tell you if you came into my office feeling lost. That's where the greatest adventures begin. Yours is waiting for you. Be excited for it! Get ready to go find it. Begin with your loves. You can't go wrong."

So this post was a little heavier than most. I'm pretty private about my life and am very uncomfortable showing emotions....but now that I've put it out there I'd love to know what you think. Have a blessed day!

My Christmas Decorations!

2009-12-06T18:58:00.006-06:00

So, I hope everyone already has their Christmas decorations up....but in the event that you don't...maybe you can get some inspiration from mine.

There is my lovely tree and the poinsetta I added to the footrest. I'm aware I definitly need to make a new base for that poinsetta (craft alert!!! any ideas??)

Closer view of my tree. You know what's funny? I love love LOVE my tree, but I hate it in pictures, nothing like the real thing, huh? Oh, and I was relitively pleased with my idea for my side table. Recognize the arrangment? It's from my kitchen table. To balance out the other side I found a beautiful crystal candlestick in the shape of a log from Khole's for 55% off. I topped it off with a red candle with snowflakes on it. As for the glasses, I never drink martini's, but for some reason I have a billion. So I set them out, put some leftover christmas balls in it and I love it! You can't tell because of my high quality camera (ha), but the glass reflects the lights from the tree so beautifully! I love it!I was just proud of myself with that one...I made the bow myself (SKILLZ Y'ALL!!)This is my "mantel." I wanted to make the nativity scene the center because afterall...Jesus is the reason for the season! The left has a Charlie Brown christmas tree, a santa nutcracker that counts down the days 'til Christmas, and a picture of my family...because I love them. On the right is my canibal snowman. Yes, he's a canibal...as you can barely see the snowman is carrying a shovel that says "let it snow"....and two snowman heads in a bucket....Thanks mom!! Also pictures is a snowglobe (childhood obsession) and a canister of my favorite candies!Here's my advent wreath!! homemade :) The rest of the pictures are just random shots around my house.P.S....I totally made the wreath on my front door...schweet! So what do you think? Anything you'd like to know more about? Any more suggestions?

How to Make a Diaper Cake!

2009-12-03T23:07:00.006-06:00

In honor of baby Greenlee coming VERY soon....here is my last post about Summer's Shower.... The infamous diaper cake. Hopefully you all will enjoy, learn, and attempt!!

STEP 1: pick out the diapers of your choice. I went with Huggies Organic diapers (of course) and I got the newborn size because I figured a new baby might be a cost shock at first -- she can use them imediately. These diapers were less than $20 for a pack of....err....I think 52 and Target.

STEP 2: Everybody (record scratch) get your roll on!

I chose to start at the *ahem* crotch end and work my way up (sorry...I couldn't think of a cleaner way to say that). Roll them as tight as you can!!!

STEP 3: SECURE!!!

Do this with a regular sized rubber band...simple as that!

STEP 4: Making the base

Get a larger rubber band for this step. You'll want to secure abotu 5 diapers together. Make sure you only pull this rubber band over the diapers. don't continue to wrap...you'll want it a little loose. Then stick a baby bottle in the middle and the "backbone." I stuck a few Snickers in the bottle as a little treat for the momma later.

STEP 5: making the base pt. 2

Continue sticking the rolled diapers in the large Rubber band ring to make the extended base. make it as wide as you like (my suggestion is to use 5 diapers for the top of the cake...so make sure you have enough for that). Then, repeat for the middle layer!

(yes, I know it's off center, but I didn't correctly anticipate how many diapers I needed and guess what....it still turned out ok)

STEP 6: Choose your ribbon colors!!

Just go nuts on this part. I've seen some great looking diaper cakes with think brown ribbon and a pink thinner ribbon layering it. I wanted to keep my cake simple with the theme, so I chose a soft green. Use this to cover up the rubber bands...might I suggest using double sided tape??

STEP 7: Pick your "topping"

Some diaper cakes I've seen have a bear sitting on top, or a bottle, or a kid-sized basketball. Again, I wanted to compliment my theme. So I found some beautiful fake green hydrangias (sp?) at Hobby Lobby that fit the top of the cake PERFECTLY (it didn't hurt that they were 50% off!). Then I used some wire cutters to cut of the stem and stuck that sucker right in the middle of the top layer.

STEP 8: Adding your decorations

Again, make this as fun as possible and with your theme! For baby boys, you can stick little tenis shoes, baseballs, etc. For girls, teddy bears, tiny ballet shoes, etc. I've seen some really cute cakes where the person turned it into a gift basket and added pacifiers, bottles, baby food and have it draping off the cake. Again-me-theme...plus I wanted to tie in black from the picture frames used for decorating without looking too "dark" So I kept it simple and made it personal.

So there ya have it folks!!!! what do you think? Was this "how to" helpful? Would you like to see more "how-to's"? Did it wear you out like it did my baby girl??Leave a comment and let me know what you all think!! Peace and Love!

Greenlee's Shower breakdown

2009-11-29T16:24:00.010-06:00

As you probably already know, November 15 was Summer's baby shower. Theme: Go Green for Greenlee. Mission: accomplished. Here's the breakdown.

First we have the lovely gift table. From the left: the Japanese cherry blossom I brought from my home (it sets upon my dresser). I wanted to bring in nature as well as serenity and I thought it added a lovely touch. Right in front of it is the box that I made for Summer (you can see it's purpose later on in this post)...but here's the close up.(for Greenlee Elizabeth Colclasure)...yes, I realize that the last initial is suppose to be the bigger one in the middle, but give me a break...at one point I was tested for Dyslexia.

On the far right of the table is a Live Oak Tree. This was our one of the hostesses gifts to Summer (the other was a diaper changing table)...we are planting it in honor of Greenlee at Beaverfork lake (the place where Jordy proposed to Summer). I'm so excited about this! In Columbia, Missouri (where my family use to live) there are so many beautiful walking trails (the town promotes health and nature and I freaking love it) and many families have planted trees in honor or in memory of loved ones. I brought the idea to a gentleman that works for the city of Conway and he loves the idea so much he actually wanted to call the newspaper and make it a tradition in Conway. I will actually speak to him tomorrow so I will let you know how that turns out later...neat, huh?

To the left of the tree on the table is the diaper cake I made and a little sumpin-sumpin for Greenlee's nursery.

For the record, the diaper cake was made from Organic diapers. I've had a lot of people asking how I made this so I'll have a post all about it coming soon!

Next we have the guestbook, or lack-there-of.

The lovely framed note in the back reads: "Instead of a guestbook, we would love for you to write a shor letter for baby Greenlee to read for years to come; as a record of your attendence on this memorable day" yes I know I'm a cheeseball. All paper used here is made from recycled material and eco-friendly...thanks Staples! After each person wrote their note, they dropped into the vase. Now, that is my vase that I love a lot...so THAT'S why I made that box for Summer. Now she has a neat little place to keep and protect the letters for a long time. For the record....OVERWHELMING response....she L.O.V.E.D. it. Oh, I almost forgot, that is a 3D sonogram (sp?) of baby Greenlee framed on the right. Recognize that print around it? It is the ribbon from the diaper cake...and made quite a lovely border as well as tying in the decorations.

Next we have the party favor table.

I don't remember what this note said, but it was along the lines of, "We are so 'fortunate' to have you celebrate this joyous occasion with us...etc." Anyway, the bamboo plant is from home, as well. I love it and it is perched right beside me on the desk. The fotune cookie idea actually came from this website. If you do the math...those were WAAAAAAY to expensive to order...so We had a little DIY action! (FYI Catherine actually is the one that made these). First, We bought a regular bag of fortune cookies at Kroger. Then,, we dipped them in white almond bark...melted of course, with a small amount of green food coloring added. Finally, we sprinkled pearl sprinkles over them...Ta-Da!! I think they're 5 kinds of cute, and the guests loved them!

Finally, we had the food table.

First of all, we used all organic foods, except the cake...but the pregnant lady needed a cake. We had a fruit and veggie platter. I would suggest that you all seek out your local farmer's market for this. Most products sold there will be a cheaper option for organic food and will support the local economy. However, our farmer's market is only in service from May to September (bummer)...no worries! Kroger came through for us! (FYI Christine made all of the food and was accepted into culinary school...yay!) We also served organic apple cider and "tulip water." It consists of regular tap water, sliced oranges, an tulips...except we couldn't find tulips so we used lilly petals. It was awesome! I drink a lot of water and it had just a slight hint of orange flavor. Here's a closer look

We were also fortunate enough to find organic plates.

and they were on clearence!! schaweet!! We were lucky to find these. The best way to host a party and "go green" is to use real dishes...we just didnt' have the resources. As for the lovely decorations in the middle that I worked so hard on: I spray-painted a bare tree branch black and stuck it into a square vase the I etched a "G" on. Then filled it wil pale decoration rocks from Hobby Lobby to keep it still. To bring in the "baby" part into this room (considering it was separated from all the other decorations) I made the tree into a mobile by cutting out felt birds, stuffing them for a pillowy effect, and dangling them from the tree
So that's it folks! Don't forget to check back with me for the "how to make a diaper cake" post. What do ya'll think of the shower??? Any more suggestions for future baby showers?? Show some love!

BIG REVEAL: Summer's Shower

2009-11-22T00:14:00.005-06:00

Ok kiddos....I don't like posting on the weekends, but a promise is a promise. So here are the pictures of "Go Green for Greenlee" stay tuned next week for the breakdown.

Few quick updates:

2009-11-18T18:55:00.003-06:00

1...Snoopy didn't make it to the semi final round of the bachelor but she's fine (to the left, to the left) thank you all for you support for my little baby!

2. Christmas decor...almost complete!!!!

3. This is mainly for my BFF Brittany ( I should let you know, that although we dont' get to talk much, everytime i get off the phone I sit in sadness because I miss you a lot....)
In case I haven't made it clear: THIS GIRL IS AMAZING. By FAR the most talented person I know (which is saying a lot, I know quit a few talented people!). Most people that know her know she's an amazing painter, sculpter, and drawer in general. What people don't know is that she has aquired some pretty mad computer skillz the past few years...especially in the graphic design area. I would really like to throw all of the life I can in my blog so she came up with a great idea: I would post all of the "skills" I would like to aquire toward my blog and she would herself answer each delima on her blog. (ps....that is her main blog but if you'd like to know more about the business side of Brittany check out her other blog here). Isn't she something??? She such a servant which is one reason I love her so stinkin much, because to be honest...she really doesn't have time for this.... I"M FREAKIN EXCITED, THOUGH!!! So Britt, here is my list (jump on it, you know i'm antsy when I'm excited)

1. (and most importantly) How to make

tabs across the top of my blog so it will look

more organized. (see example at

one of my favorite blogs here).

2. How to change my background, NOT

THAT I WANT TO (because you did

amazing)...I just want to know how

3. How to make lots of fun things on

the right side (ex...your workout

list, or the "favorites colomn on

the blog in list 1, or the wishlist

in the same blog, or a list of

webpages I find intersting, etc)

That's all I can think of for now but I will update the list I"M SURE, and I will let you know when I update it..you're the best, love you!

FUN SIDE NOTE: If you're in the central Arkansas area this weekend, I will be working at Dazzle Daze. It is a HUUUUUUGE Christmas shopping convention with over 1000 booths that Conway Regional Markenting Department (my internship) hosts....let me know if you're interested!

The week ahead

2009-11-16T19:40:00.003-06:00

I have to apologize. This week is going to be insane for me (thank you Swine Flu, now all of my teachers have realized the semester is almost over and ohmygosh have to cram all of their assignments in this week...you rock) So baby girl is STRESSIN! Along with working and hosting the biggest event in Conway for my internship (Dazzle Days), I have to prioritize my life. So I'm taking a blogging Vay-K this week. There is something I want you to know, though. My dear friend Kelsey at Writing Left Handed has put some perspective in my life: Even thought not many people read my blog, I still LOVE writing them -- so thank you to all of you who read and comment (you kind of make my day!). So I will leave you with a few thoughts for the week:

1. Summer's baby shower is over...the theme...."Go Green for Greenlee" (that's her little girl's name btw)..it was a HUUUUUUGE success! I received so many compliments and can. not. WAIT to share it with you!!! Keep checking!! I may go ahead and post it Friday!

2. SNOOPY IS IN THE TOP TEN!!!! in case you forgot, my sweet miniature beagle stole the heart of a famous Chihuahua at Hamburger's House Blog...don't recognize that blog? He's the only "child" of John and Sherry who created my most favorite blog (thanks for introducing me, Kelsey) Young House Love. Anyway, over a hundred entries, 10 dogs eliminated, and my Snoopy is still in the top 10...BUT, there will be an elimination either Tuesday or Wednesday so PU---LEASE keep checking and commenting for her!! It seems like the pooches with the most comments are the ones staying and Snoopy could really use some help!!

3...My Christmas decor is up...FREAKING CAN"T WAIT TO START BLOGGING ABOUT MY MOST FAVORITE-EST HOLIDAY!!!! :D

4. E-Troupe had their final performance and you can check it out here

5..don't worry, I will post the final phase of Zack's study room...eventually!

That's all folks!! Have a great week and don't miss me too much!

Zack's Study Room: part 4

2009-11-12T00:01:00.006-06:00

So this one might be boreing but it did add quite a nice touch to the room. I LOVED the paint color we put on Zack's study room ("camelback") but once the paint was up, I didn't love it as much...and then I figured out why. It was the awful red tiling clashing with the beige

Well I was poor so I couldn't redo the tile...but I did remember that my mom had some offwhite carpet scraps from our house in Magnolia. So being the lovely mother that she is...brought them up! One problem...I never messed with carpet in my life.... Luckily, my AMAZING boo, Zack help me cut the carpet with BOXCUTTERS (not as fun as it sounds). We started with 2 long strips and cut it down to use EVERY piece exept for one corner.

Like the action shots of my little helper?? ok...the pieces are cut and fit perfectly...what's next?? Taping them together! Leave it to a young lady to Arkansas to flip it upside down and put it together with duct tape....for the record...it worked perfectly, thanks. step.. 3:carpet tape! Because this was a small room, all I did was lay the carpet tape about 1" away from the wall all the way around the room. Finally...the door wouldn't open over the carpet. so I cut a half circle to fit the door swing perfectly (so not TOO much of that hideous tile was exposed.
So what do you think???? Do you guys have any better or cheaper ways to cover up the tiles?? Do tell!!

Zack's Study Room-- pt. 3

2009-11-10T22:40:00.011-06:00

It's time for stage 3 of Zack's study room!! Last week I shared the before and after pictures of Zack's study room design here. THIS week, I will be sharing about that adorable little cabinet that was left behind.

Yes, I know what you're thinking...."Lauren...adorable...REALLY?" Come on, guys, it just needs a little TLC! I really wanted to dress this room up and make it more homier and calming....but I also wanted to add a "study" touch without making it look like an elementary classroom. Thank God (literally) I was helping Zack clean out some supply closets as well and stumbled upon this bad boy. YES, that is chalkboard paint!!!!! It took about three coats but it definitly added a pop to this cabinet!

(check out my gaurdian between my feet). Aparently it was a big hit because it didn't take long before Zack threw some love back my way, and his roommate showed off his art skills.

P.S....I want to set up this image for you...Zack's roommate (Trey Lippe) plays for the UCA Bears all-conference football team and his fraternity brother. Let's take it a step further, Ever seen Rocky V? the "kid" Rocky trains....Tommy Gun (who is a legit world champion boxer btw)...is Lippe's dad! Anyway, he wanted to design beautiful artwork :)

ON TO STEP 2!!! You can't have a sleep counter with ugly sides!!! I wanted the sides of the cabinet to flow with the trim so I went with antique white.

It took 3 coats of paint...but that's just because I'm a perfectionist...It probably could have been done in 2.

Finally, I added some black shelf liner for the inside (please excuse the mess...Zack's not organized per say but hehas to have things picked up)

I hope you all enjoyed the cabinet makeover!! What do you think about the idea?? Do you have any other ideas for cabinets??

Zack's study room!! pt. 2! --the breakdown

2009-11-09T18:53:00.006-06:00

Hello darlings!! As you may remember from last week's post, Zack's study room is finished!! This week I will be breaking down his room in and out! Today...painting.... We were lucky that his landloards offered to pay for the paint and supplies...along with deducting 1st months rent for the job...So we jumped to it....

(it's true......I do love him.)As you can probably tell....I edged and Zack rolled. It took about 2 coats to cover up this blue. We used "camelback" from Sherwin Williams. BY. FAR...the worst part was painting the brick.Yeah....that smile is very fake....here's the more realistic face:We were able to find eco-friendly floor coveres at Wal Mart (who knew!) Ps...I know I look stunning.... So how about you guys?? Any painting-horror stories??? How about great changes?? Doesn't paint make a room look completely different??

Snoopy, The bachelor Burger, ROUND 2!!

2009-11-04T18:11:00.003-06:00

That's right!!! My baby made round 2!! 5 Lovely pooches were eliminated this week but not MY baby :)

Once again, Thank you all so much for your overwhelming supportive comments...but we still need them! Penny Pinscher and Nico are getting overwhelming responses!!! Keep commenting for my baby girl!! You can do that at Hamburger's House!! just click on the coversation bubble in the top right corner of the post. That's all folks! I'll leave you with this song that I dedicate to my baby girl. Ta Ta fo now!

BIG REVEAL!!! Zack's study room!! (part 1)

2009-11-03T20:06:00.005-06:00

Just for the record...most of this room has been done for about a month now. We just put the finishing touches on it today (although I'm SURE it could change). This was done on a very cost efficient budget and we have gotten TONS of compliments (your welcome, Zack). Speaking of him...Zack has gone from making this room his dirty laundry basket...to actual study usage (I call it his man cave). So without further ado...I present....the before!and (drum roll, please) the after!!
So I have to know....what do you think????? Do you have any other suggestions for the room (go ahead! be honest! I want to learn!!). I will be breaking down the steps to this room one by one forthe rest of the week, that way you can learn ever little detail and fun extras about this room! Happy Tuesday!

One more BOO :)

2009-11-02T22:58:00.005-06:00

So I hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween! this will be a short post just to let you know how my Halloween went!! FIRST and foremost, E-TROUPE ROCKED THRILLER!!!!!

Scary, huh? You can definitely check out an armature version here buuuttt, if you have Facebook you can check out an awesome version here!! Friday night I attended the Marketplace Halloween party. It was awesome...it's been a long time since I've been to a field bonfire party...it was lovely:) here are those pictures: Can you guess what I was??

I was "grandma" got run over by a reindeer!" I tried to convince Wes to be a grandpa with a shirt that said "I believe" but he HAD to break out his pimp suit.

Well now that Halloween has come and gone...I am officially celebrating Christmas!!! Don't worry, I'm toning it down until after Thanksgiving...so I'll try to hold off from posting anything as well.

Next, ZACK'S STUDY ROOM IS DONE!!!! But I can't tell you about it until he gives me the pictures (slow boys.....)

Finally, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL THE SUPPORT FOR MY BABY SNOOPY!!

I know this is a random post but I'll be back on track soon....hopefully. Now I want to know about you!! How was your Halloween? What did you all do? and most importantly, where do I see the pictures??? Have a great week!

SNOOPY MADE THE BACHELOR!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-10-27T15:48:00.004-05:00

MY BABY GIRL HAS MADE ME PROUD ONCE AGAIN!!! Burger is John and Sherry's STUDLY Chihuahua, (both have blogs that I follow religiously!!) and he is looking for love....SNOOPY MADE THE CUT!!!

Please go to Burger's blog and comment!! (She's really nervous and could use the encouragement!!) plus it could help her chances!! Spread the word! Way to go Snoop!!

A Day to Celebrate.

2009-10-26T18:07:00.007-05:00

October 25, 2008 my baby girl Snoopy "Hoodrat" Bussell was born (yes, she danced to "In the club" by 50 cent). Only a few people realize why this is so significant. That dog has seriously filled a major void in my heart -- I know you've probably heard this before...but she is my child, my baby. I love her so much...every since the first time I saw her

Yes...that is a genuine reaction..she snuck up on me from behind and I didn't get too excited until I found out she was mine for sure :) So how does one celebrate a dogs birthday??? Well we started by cooking eggs, bacon, and bisquits for breakfast and allowing her to have some. Then, I bought her a chef michaels dog meal (with veggies) for her dinner....she loved it.... Then came the presents! She hated her last dog bed because it was too big for her so I bought her a dog bed that is PERFECTLY sized for her. We've also noticed that she loves carrying around fuzzy "babies" (usually stuffed bears and what not) that are the same size as her. So I bought her a stuffed racoon, she literally has not let it out of her sight.

See those cute little balls at the bottom? Zack Zack (yes, that's what she calls him and knows him by) bought those for her! She loves tennis balls but can't ever grab them in her little mouth...plus they squeek...which she loves!

I'd say they were a hit (seriously...how cute is she???). Plus Zack Zack brought her a vanilla ice cream cone (now you see why he's her favorite). I loved it because she slept GREAT that night!

Overall, I think she had a great birthday! So am I the only one who celebrate's their animals bdays?? What do you guys do? Ps....if you think I'm crazy, know that nothing is too over the top for my baby!:) Happy Birthday, Snoop!

Ramalama Bang Bang

2009-10-22T19:03:00.002-05:00

To put some things in perspective (on top of everything else that's going on this time of year) I have dance practice for at least 2 hours FOUR nights this week....yes it's killing me...but it's for an amazing cause! It's called E-Troupe and it's through New Life Church. It started out as a small group made to perform for college services to show that God gives us all talents and we are to use them to serve him. Eventually, we became in very high demand (3 different dances for 3 different events in 2 months...yikes!) after this performance at a women's conference. Our last performance (also at a women's conference) here was about holding on to your dreams. For the record...that was not our best performance...it was cut quite short because this was just a sample we cut down for elevation. Anyway, now we're working on a high school conference and we're performing THRILLLER!!!!! yay!!! I can't wait to show you the results. In the mean time...I will leave you with one of my favorite dances of all time...by my favorite choreographer, Wade Robson....in the spirit of the season:) enjoy.

These are my Confessions

2009-10-20T20:20:00.006-05:00

Ok....I do have a confession....one reason I'm going to be such a bad blogger is because it's my favorite time of year...no not Halloween actually....MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL POSTSEASON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Want to know why this season is so special?? THE YANKEES ARE BACK!!!!! (seriously...not enough exclamation points for this blog). Anyway....it's taking over my life...but I have to support my future lover, right??In the time it took me to upload those photographs....(they're legit btw...we're dating) A-Rod hit a homerun....*sigh* amazing! Can you tell I"m having fun with photoshop?? ....what?....Zack who?? OH! my boyfriend....yeah he's still around.... I should let you know that he admitted that he actually wouldn't be mad if i left him for A-Rod...but that's the only person :) Don't worry! I love my Zack, for him, my heart will always go on!
***If you can't pick up on it, this post is dedicated to my new found hobby with photoshop, I hope you enjoy!!! any other ideas???...and Zack wants me to throw in the disclaimer that he hates this photo of him....just so you know:) Ain't he cuuutte??? *** Have a happy Tuesday!

Smashing Pumpkins

2009-10-19T23:22:00.009-05:00

Ok...so we're not actually smashing pumpkins...but we are carving them!! It was originally going to be me and zack...but then I had to call my boys :) Did you notice the delectibles on the table?? Compliments to Kevin (gentleman on the left)!!!

don't ask me what that drink is...we just referred to it as "potion." It was amazing, though. The rest of the night was too great for words...so here are the visuals:

here are the results!!!!! The before:
and after!
Don't worry, I haven't forgotten about my "initial" pumpkin carving...coming soon :) Oh...I had a little fun with photoshop, as well!
Happy early Halloween!!!!

Murder of One

2009-10-18T19:18:00.007-05:00

I know I haven't been a great blogger lately...and I might as well warn you that it won't get better. My life is INSANE lately...i'm not kidding when I say i'm busy from 8 am-11 pm and at least until 7 pm the rest of the days, my free time is very precious...BUT...I am going to take the time tonight to continue a little bit more about my own personal Halloween decorations.

Here is my "mantle." These lanterns actually can be plugged in to light up, but I never use them for that. their main purpose is to cover up some of our surround sound speaker. Nifty trick, eh? Like I've told you before, I'm not big on decorating for Halloween or thanksgiving. So i can save some dollas by simply turning these Jack-O-Lanterns around to be pumkins again. As for what I will do for the middle section...wait until October ;)

Here is my enterence way table. Simple...and easy transition into Thanksgiving :)
Here is my candy bowl!!! I got it at Hobby Lobby for 1/2 off!!! Do you see the Febreeze air effects can in the back?? That is a special Harvest scent and it really puts you in the season!!! It actually last a good while as well!

Sorry this one is so messy (he's clean now) This is a soap dispenser I picked up at Bath and Body works last year. Isn't he cute?? :)

That's about it!! sometime (hopefully tomorrow) I will post about my porch decoration....and my pumpkin carving adventures!! Do ya'll have any great decorating suggestions?? ps..i need a halloween outfit...suggestions????? Oh.. and my strange status? here's where it's from :)

Give me the Greeeeen Liiiiiggghhhttt!

2009-10-15T16:01:00.004-05:00

Happy Blog Action Day Everyone!!!! It's October 15th so it's time to post about some area of climate change. Since I try to post tips when I can, anyway, this was turning out to be a daunting challenge. So I took Michael Jackson's advice and started with the man (and in my case, a lady) in the mirror. I was just complaining to Zack yesterday about how much I wanted to eventually make enough small changes until I lived completely eco friendly. Unfortunately, on a college budget and in a rent house, that was very hard to do...then it hit me:

Why don't I post about ways college students can go green? College students actually have more waste than you might think...especially with paper. I narrowed it down to 6 simple tips for everyone on a college budget. I hope you all find the information useful and are able to carry the into your own lives. Here we go!

TIP 1: RECYCLE, RECYCLE, RECYCLE!!!!

There are many ways you can do this. This year for school, I purchased a 100% Recycled Binder (with soyink) and a 100% recycled notebook. Trust me, it's just as cute as the other notebooks, and I can take pride in it. The best part? I got them at Wal-Mart...so they were cheap too. You can also get recycled paper for your notebook and recycled copy paper for your printer (until you can afford an eco friendly printer) at Staples. Another way I help recycle is through my sorority. I am an Alumnae but I still give all my classnotes, quizes, tests, projects, and research papers to our Vice President of Scholarship. Not only am I recycling, but I'm helping out my sisters who might be struggling (Bonus)! You can do the same even if you are not in a sorority, some organzation will appreciate it very much!!! Of course, you can always recycle the standard way. I know there are many places on UCA campus that have recycle bins for paper, plastic, and boxes.

TIP 2: print less, save more.

Many professors don't mind if you use the front and back of paper to cut down on wasted paper...just ask first. Some of mine do because they want it to look "proffessional." That's ok. But how about when your printing off those slides, notes, or helpful charts for your class? This is for your own personal use, so definitly use both sides then! It might also help you keep up with you pages better. Another great tip for saving cash and the environment can be found at Wal-Greens. Last week (for the first time ever) I got my cartridges refilled. The black went through fine, the color one wouldn't work...but that's ok, I'm no better or worse off than I was right? It was done in about 30 minutes and with my UCA ID I got 10% off! My total? $12.50 (they didn't charge me for the colored one of course). So I saved some green in the environment, and in my pocket. Oh yeah...and this was at 2:00 in the morning working on a media law exam...convenient!!

TIP 3: cut down on disposables (yes, this means you, Mr. Beer Pong champ)

When I moved into my duplex with my brother I bought a set of cheap black dinner set at Wal Mart for 30 buckaroos. They were perfect for my style of living, cheap, and I love black. Plus I don't "run out" of plates or have double the waste I use to. My set came with 8 dinner plates, 8 saucers, 8 mugs, and 8 bowls...sweet! Many dorm rooms have kitchen areas, too (mine had a vanity we made into a kitchen area). So go ahead and invest in some actual plates. Don't worry, i'm understanding about you crazy kids that attend UCA and know what I mean when I say "the red cup rule." We found a way to reuse these as well....get ready....HANDWASH THEM. (you'll be ok...i promise).

TIP 4: napkins

This is simple...recycle old t-shirts, towels, and washclothes instead of using a ton of paper towel and/or napkins to clean. You are going to think I'm crazy when I say this but do you know what most detail business will use to clean your windows?? NEWSPAPER!! I'm not making this up, I have seen at least 3 businesses do it. You'll be recycling and it won't leave behind those...what are they...threads? we'll just say streaks. Give it a try...I dare you.

TIP 5: Lights.

We've discussed this before...the energy effecient lightbulbs. Once again, they cost more, but you save more money AND they last longer. Use these for your lamps and use lamps instead of overhead lights. They're "homier" and are much more eco friendly that cheap overhead lights.

TIP 6: Clean Green

Buy Green cleaning products! I know dorm/rent life is dirty and germ infested. But Green cleaning products work just as well as regular ones, and are MUCH better for the environment. I like to use Clorox Greenworks Cleaners and laundry detergent (also sometimes I use Tide "loads of Hope" because I like to help the needy).

So I hope these tips helped!!! What ways are you guys going green? I would love to hear your tips as well since i'm new at this. Did anything I say help?

In honor of today's blog post, I leave you with this Song O' the day. Have a great one!!!

If I was Picasso, I would buy myself a grey guitar and play...

2009-10-08T16:51:00.010-05:00

I have to start out this post by doing something I should have done a couple of weeks ago. Did you all notice my stellar new layout???? Compliments to my best friend Brittany Miller! She is an art student at the Art Institute of Houston and is AMAZING. She's always been an amazing painter/illistator: not only have her skills improved in school (I didn't think it was possible but they actually have), but she has become expertly skilled with computer graphics. She whipped up my background in a few hours. Better than that, she has a compassion that allows her to gather exactly what her clients want (I LOVE my layout! I was jumping up and down when I saw it). I'm so proud of her for finally taking a giant leap of faith and becoming a full time professional artist. There's isn't a doubt in my mind that she will be successful. You can view a small portion of her artwork here.

Ok! next on the agenda.... Most of the projects I am working on can not yet be revealed. So, let's chat about my art supplies!!!! this is one place I do not mind not being comPLETEly organized. I have an "art container" under my bed. Here's the before:

crazy, huh? the after might not look much better from the picture:

Now it might not look organized to you...but I haven't looked at it in a week and I can give you the breakdown JUST by the picture. On the left, I have my paints: mostly acrylic, I also have ribbon, etch, paint medium, etc.. On the right is my staple/nail gun, hot glue gun, paintbrushed (I have a lot), my sketch pads, and an expandable folder. Look at some old sketches I found!

random huh? As for my expandable folder, it hold all my goodies for my scrapbook.
That about covers it! I'm trying to expand my collection. What do you guys suggest? Any fun art project ideas?

Cause that's the thrill of- thriller nights!

2009-10-06T22:29:00.011-05:00

I'm a nerd for holiday-decor! I've been looking for new, fun inspiration in decorating for Halloween: I think I've found out it...check it out!

These are simply, folgers or regular canned goods. All you do is take a hammer, nail, and make the pattern of your choice. Add a candle (soy preferrably) and line your sidewalk! Cute and Simple..which is always a plus here! Where else do you think would be a great place to put these??

We love christmas tress...but how about a Halloween tree? Pick out a branch of your liking. Spray paint it black and stick it in a pot. The black rocks can be purchased from the craft section of Walmart. then add some cute little bags as ornaments! Why not fill them with your favorite treats and enjoy your own 13 days of Halloween? It's also a fun countdown, don't you think?

What a fun twist on the an old classic! paint cute light fixtures on a pumpkin and let your light shine through! Want a real challenge? try to make a chandelier!! (I might try to tackle this one):)

I LOVE these, I am definitley making one of these with my Pumpkin Carving Kit ($3.99 at Kroger's!). What an awesome way to display Your initials! Get creative!!! How about your house number?? :)

HOW ABOUT SOME HOLIDAY RECIPES??

I have to write about these first, my mom use to make these for me and it brought back some great memories. they are just lolipops with a white napkin tied over them...they were my favorite:) miss you mom!

My boo loves ribs, how cute is this idea??? simply yet very seasonal!!

How cute is this cake??? I will more than likely make it and

let you know how it goes!!!

So do you guys have any ideas for Halloween decor or recipes??? What

is your favorite way to celebrate??

Going green for Halloween

2009-10-05T16:58:00.002-05:00

I am a DORK when it comes to holidays (in fact...on my blog list I have more bl0g ideas for Christmas than all of the others put together!). I love everything about holidays: tradition, community, stories, decorations, spirt. The only 2 bad things about them are calorie intakes and they aren't always fantastic for the environment. Well hopefully I can at least help with one of those!!

1. If you decorate with lights, try LED lights instead (simple enough?)

2. Try to use household items to recycle into a costume! last year, I put on some black pants, a white v-neck tshirt, and black shoes. I got some kid leggings (I have no idea why those were still in my possession), cut off the legs and put 5 holes where i could wear them as fingerless gloves(I know it sounds weird but it was quite dashing). Then I cut jagged shapes out of old cereal boxes and mixed acrylic paint with medium to make it look like blood, and splashed it all over my shirt. Can you guess what I was? A "cereal" (serial) killer!! Everyone thought it was crafty and it was 100% recycled! (sorry, no pictures...)

3. Safety first!! use battery-free LED flashlight instead! You'll be safe and green :)

4. After carving your Jack-O-Lantern, use soy-candles.

5. try organic candy (I need to do some research of how available this is in the area). Also, use a recycled bag or pillow case intead of plastic to carry your goods :)

6. HERE"S THE BEST PART: I found the COOLEST thing: Trees for Treats offers a way to help the environment in addition to candy. Here's how it works: Adults buy “tree coupons” (bundles of 50 for $6 at .10 a piece) and give away to trick-or-treaters in addition to or instead of conventional treats. For each bundle sold, 50 trees are planted. How sweet is that? here is what the coupon looks like:

I am SO all about this!!! How about you?? Any more tips for ways to stay green even in the fall??

quick post...PLEASE READ!!!

2009-10-04T14:01:00.003-05:00

Please vote Arkansas Children's Hospital to win a game room from Microsoft. You can vote 10 times per day!! (it's easy). click here: http://xbox.childrensmiraclenetwork.org/. Vote everyday! We are in second, but we're way behind 1st! TELL ALL of your friends!! Please help. this hospital saved my life in Kindergarten. Give back...and tell all of your friends!!! thank you!!!

GREEN-sleeves is my delight!!!

2009-10-01T22:44:00.007-05:00

2 exciting sneak peaks today!! Sorry, no pictures...yet :) They include:

1. remodeling Zack's extra walk-in into a study room

2. Summer's surprise baby shower

1. If you missed a previous post, I'll break it down for you. Zack's room is actually the old porch of the house. Other than the doors you can't even tell, though. It looks more like a studio apartment with a brick accent wall. ANYWAY, Zack has a very small room separating the old storage room (his closet) from his bedroom. I should also tell you that the house use to be occupied by some art students -- which is quite tragic considering it was the WORST paint job EVER. The blue walls were literally the same color as the painters tape we taped down, complete with streaks and a plethora of missed spots (with white walls peaking through). All that occupied the room was a random floor cabinet, Lance's (Zack's Irish Setter) food, and dirty clothes. Zack is a handyman and I love creating themes so one night it hit me: Zack hates going to the UCA library because friends always find him and distract him, and he hates studying in his room because he's so easily distracted there, as well (he lives with 3 UCA football players -- two of them are fraternity brothers that are constantly in his room playing XBOX). Why don't we make the unused room a study room? It's the perfect size, far away from activity, and....well, what else is he using it for? His landlords gave them $500 off their rent if they painted -- so free paint and supplies?!?!? It was a sign. We picked out a beautiful "Camelback" paint for the walls, and an "antique white" for the trim -- both products of Sherwin Williams. We wanted to use paint from the Harmony collection (so it would be Eco-friendly) but the landlord said no because of costs. :( So tonight we got down to business laying the painters tape, protecting the floors, cleaning the walls/brick with a hot-wet rag, and went to town on the painting. I carefully used an angled paintbrush to get all the edges, while Zack got his roll on! The hardest part was painting the brick. I painted the crevasses with my brush, and Zack rolled over it to make sure it was thoroughly coated. If you are interested in learning more about this you can visit my FAVORITE blog, Young House Love, here. Be sure to check out their entire site, it's amazing! We plan to add 2 more coats of paint over the next 2 days...and that's not even the beginning (picture me giving you a mischievous grin) we plan to do some building and decorating as well...but I plan to keep that secret until the big revealment --COMING SOON TO A COMPUTER NEAR YOU!! :)

2. My Conway BFF is having her baby girl, Greenlee (did I get the spelling right?), December 15th. I can not WAIT to be an "aunt." Some of her other Conway friends had a dinner date at U.S. Pizza tonight to discuss her baby shower! I can proudly announce that I am extremely pleased with the results!!!! I came up with the theme and NOTHING about this shower will be "standard": not the theme, the food, the gifts, the games...NOTHING! Now that I have built it up...I can not tell you about it...sorry!! Summer follows my blog and I don't want any chance of her finding out. You'll definitely want to hear about it, though! Be looking for the results on my blog right before Thanksgiving! Speaking of holidays...I found some great tips in staying green during the holiday season...be looking for ways you can help save, as well!!

Last...I'll leave you with a song to go along with the theme of this blog. As you all know, I am an intense Michael Jackson fan. That fact aside, I want you to take this song very seriously. It is not a very "well-known" Michael Jackson song, but in my opinion is it the greatest song he ever wrote (also the opinion of his brother Jermaine). It is such a passionate song that draws tears to my eyes EVERY time I listen to it. Be sure to listen to it all the way through and watch the video, enjoy!

Fabric of my Life!

2009-09-30T20:21:00.009-05:00

My desk chair was less than appealing.... I received all my bedroom furniture (desk, nightstand, and dresser) when my family bought their first house (I was in the 4th grade). Fortunately the templates on all the furniture was reversable (from baby pink to a light green). My chair, however, was less fortunate. So I skipped gayly down the street to Handcock Fabrics and picked out a thick fabric complementary to the color of my bed sheets with intentions to reupholster my chair. I can now announce that I am VERY pleased with the results. So here is my "how to" reupholster a chair.

Exhibit A: The drab before (do not ask me what the design is I have no clue; however, I can confirm that those ARE 80s colors).

Step 1: unscrew the screws holding on the seat and pop that baby right off! Lay the now removed seat upside down on the upside down fabric. Make sure all wrinkles are all smoothed out.

Step 2: get to work stapling the fabric around the seat. I got a $20 staple/nail gun at Home Depo. I like to do opposite sides first and I made sure that the frabric is just barely rapping around the bottom of the seat (this makes it much easier when you have to screw the seat back in). A few other things to remember during this step is to keep the fabric tight, stretched, and centered. That way there is no bulging or akwardness. To insure this, I like to staple 1-2 inches apart. Don't be afraid to pull the staples out and start over if this does happen, though. It will be ok. :)

Step 3: you'll wrap the corners just like you do a Christmas present (if you do not know how to do this then just play around with the fabric until you achieve your desired look.

Step 4: Screw the seat back into the chair. FYI, this is MUCH easier with a drill, which I have but left at Zack's house...and he is at work. On a positive note, I got a great tricept workout...your choice :)

Step 5: Step back and jump in the air like I did because you're finished and the chair looks 50X better!!!!!! YAY!!!!!

How much better does that look???? It would be even better if I could paint the chair while the seat was still off, but then it wouldn't match the rest of the furiture. The whole whole project took about an hour. it would have taken less time if I had my drill, and if I had help completing this project. That's right, I did it aaaallll by myself. Well almost.... I was inspired by the January 2006 issue of At Home In Arkansas magazine...and of course had a little help (or setback) from my furry BFF.
So what do ya'll think??? Any extra tips? Let me know about your experiences!

Mighty productive day, partner!

2009-09-23T21:54:00.003-05:00

I have no idea why I was just talking like a Cowboy...hmm.... Well I worked this morning until 5 this afternoon, iMEDiately went to work on my rather trashy car....Completely spotless...on the inside :). I'm actually quite talented in the detailing department and I and going to post a "how to" car detailing post with a few secret "tricks" if this rain ever stops! geez mother nature....all things in moderation! Owell, thank you, lord, for the vegetation the rain has brought. Off my rampage! My baby girl got a bath!

On a scale from 1 to "oh my gosh!"...how cute is she??? I don't know how many more posts will happen this week, i have a dance performance at New Life church in Maumelle on Sunday for a women's event and it will be BOOT CAMP from here on out! much love your way! ps....song of the day is "tuesday's gone" -- Lynard Skynard...seriously....listen to it.

Back to Basics

2009-09-20T20:38:00.001-05:00

Once upon a time I loved crafts, art, etc. Somewhere in the past 7 or so years of my life, I have become "too busy." I don't feel like I should ever be "too busy" for something I love, even if I have to wake up 30 minutes earlier to make time for it. Soooo...back to Hobby Lobby I went (favorite store ever....). Since my famly just moved to Little Rock I decided to make a plaque for them. Here it is:

I found this blank plaque and got really excited! This particular piece is metal so I felt that Acrylic paint was best to use.

Exhibit A: The two colors I choseExhibit B: The colors blended
I picked out the stencils that I felt fit the "look" I was going for and painted them VERY carefully!
Finally...I'm not a fan of "separated letters" so I very carefully filled in the lines
TA DA!!!!! The final product! So what do you think???? Oh....little note: The 1974 on the left side is the year my parents were married....I actually added it to balance out ;) What craft ideas do you all have? Kelsey gave me a great idea working with etch...here's how mine turned out:
I'm pleased with the result...Thanks for the idea, Kels! I have many more projects coming up...my friend Stephen and I will be doing a joint painting (we're going for a rocker theme), making a "doggie" station for snoopy (I need a nightstand, Salvation Army!! make it happen!) annndd (drumroll) I"m turning a very small room in Zack's house into a study room (he lives with 3 football players and the location of this room is perfect...I've got my mood board and I can't wait to see how it turns out!! We are just waiting on the OK from the landlord. So be looking out for those! Closing thoughts: Zack and I had a wonderful time kyaking (sp?) this weekend here's a pic:
precious huh? We are trying to go to every state park in Arkansas. This is at Woolly Hollow State Park and, not that we didn't have fun, but we may be a little bit more selective about our state parks now because Logaly looked good compared to this place. For now I'm going to eat my seafood stir (made completely from scratch by yours truly) and work on homework. I'll leave you with the song I'm listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiSkyEyBczU. Listen to the music....the video is really creepy and I don't like it. "Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending" -- Maria Robinson.

My life be like...

2009-09-15T12:18:00.000-05:00

I have like....4 draft blogs where I started writing and did not finish...so I'm going to keep it simple today. My dear Summer is about to come over for a visit and i'm SO excited...I miss her a lot....then I will be cleaning my house from head to toe, changing out air filters, fixing faulty lights and moving toward a greener and healthier life. Here are some things i will be moving toward:

I might have showed you this baby before. It was originally a $86 showerhead that I got at Tuesday Morning's for $26. It Helps regulate waterflow. When the shower gets hot, the water will shut off and when you are ready to wash off/use thewate, you pull that little string on the left and it will resume waterflow. (yay for going green in the shower!)

We'reall familiar with these guys. They're expensive and don't always fit into a college budget, but they're a great goal to slowly buy for...because they save on that energy bill!!! I believe this bulb is a 15 watt bulb which is equal to a regular 60 watt bulb AND lasts for SEVEN YEARS!!!

This is my new best friend. I was never a "water bottle" drinker, but I did by the 64 cent jugs of drinking water at Wal-Mat: very wallet-friendly...eco...not so much. So I switched to this beauty and never looked back. Sure, you have to change out the filter ever 2 months (for less than $10...it was how much I was paying for jugs anyway) AND I don't "run out of water." Conway's water system is HORRIBLE. Pet stores even advise against it, and if it's not good enough for your pet, why would it be good enough for you? This water is fresh, crisp, and I never run out! LOVE. IT.

I'm also switching to healthier foods. I'm following the rule "stay to the outside of the grocery store." On the inside is many processed foods designed to set on shelves for long periods of time --which is also what the food does in your body. The ouside of the grocery store contains, the bakery, meat market, and NATURAL cheeses. Pictured above is my FAVORITE type of cheese, Gouda cheese. I quit eating processed cheese completely. Natural cheeses has much better flavor and are MUCH healthier for you. I love to cut the block up in cubes, pair in with a glass of white Zinfindale and indulge in them while taking a lovely bubble/vapor bath. Add a calm classical music (I love Vivaldi) and relax!! Heaven in your bathroom!
Last but not least, i don't beat myself up about eating "crunchy" foods. Now, I ONLY eat multigrain chips and homemade salsa if I must have my fix. Yes, that's right, I made the salsa myself. If you can't tell by the almost empty bowl, it was delicious (I wan't the only person who ate it, by the way, Zack and Austin helped. These multigrained chips are the only ones I eat anymore, and I don't allow myself to have queso anymore as well (again, processed cheese). So hopefully these tips help! What do you guys do to stay healthier? go green? I'd love to know! I'm new at this and am trying to make smal changes allthe way! Havea great day!

"fall"ing ahead.

2009-09-01T12:47:00.000-05:00

first and foremost....inCREDible weather....for the most part. Fall is my worst allergy season so i'm currently laying in bed drugged up due to a sinus infection. Dr. Snoopy is taking great care of me. **interjection** I just saw that there is a NEW "girl's next door" and i'm not liking it! I miss Kendra, Bridgette, and Holly! Ok sorry...well, a lot has been going on in my life lately. I'm back dancing for E-troupe. We have a women's even September 27th in Maumelle. Great things are happening and it's changing my life. I'm working to get my relationship with God back on track. and i'm finally getting to the point in my life where i'm seeing good come from my years of depression. I'm not angry anymore, I'm not overly sad anymore, and I feel like I can deal things more efficiently. So instead of talking about the past...let's discuss the present. I'm spending my full sundays in the church, I'm hoping to join the "healing" service group. I haven't been drunk in a year and a half, and I haven't smoked anything in that long either. I'm hardly ever eating fast food, therefore i'm becoming an amazing chef. My house stays clean, my mind stays focused, and I finally have an amazing boyfriend. I'm definitly ready to move to a bigger city and have a place of my own, though. I'm ready for the next 5 years...they seem exciting!!...and scary (in this economy) huuurrrmmm.... LIGHTER NOTE! My family moved to Little Rock! Skylar is going to school at Pulaski Academy...I can't beleive he turns 16 TOMORROW!! He can legally drive...scary. They offically moved into their rent home yesterday, i'm personally excited...i think christmas will be fun!! Well, I could keep talking about how things are going but I think I'm going to give this medication a chance to work it's magic before class and my Up til Dawn meeting. I'll try to do more updates in the future! much love!

Your voice was the soundtrack of my summer...

2009-08-19T23:23:00.000-05:00

I'm am suuuuch a bad blogger...but tis ok....because I have a lot to talk about now! So tomorrow officially starts the first day of my last year of school, wowzas! I can not believe it. I will have my Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations/Communication and a minor in Family and Consumer Science.With the exception of my senior year of high school, this is the first year of school I have ever looked forward to. I'm so excited!! Let's just start atthe beginning of the week. My family moved to Little Rock (suprised? me 2...i didn't know until 2 weeks ago). Skylar started Pulaski Academy on Tuesday, is playing football, and already loved this school way more than his other. I can't believe he will be able to drive on his own in a few weeks...i'm so old :( I missed him so much and I'm glad he lives closer to me.

Zack came back from new york. (yay!) missed my boo.... Kevin and Wes moved back as well...they're the peanut butter to my jelly (yes, I know the phrase is overused but its the only way I know to describe those boys).
I will update you on my first day of school tomorrow and show you all the cool new things I got! ooohhh...ps...I'm going kyaking (sp?) this weekend! yay!!!! more details later!

lovely day

2009-08-10T14:43:00.000-05:00

well, today is my day off...and it is definitly my day to rest. Yesterday, I went to work at 11 as a runner (all upper body, i promise) and then went IMEDIATLEY to a 3 hour dance practice. After that, i had an hour break and then went back to the church for an elevation vision meeting....so tired, and sore. Nevertheless, I got up and ran this morning...it hurt. I've been eating pretty healthy lately so I figured I would have my splurge day. I'm cooking Paula Deen's Pot Roast tonight with carrots, onions, potatoes, and on the side, green beens and a vinigerette salad (i'm pleased with myself. That is about all the update I have at this point...i'm kind of boreing these days. Peace, love, and understanding!

oh brian.....

2009-08-03T16:15:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the lack o' posts...my family has been in...and we have had a lot going on...which is why this will be a short post as well as i am about to leave for work. Sooo...I have rekindled my love for Brian McKnight....he is one of my all time favorite artist....(Kelsey, you should teach me to post a link like you do so I can share my love). Try the song, "Still the One" by him. I loooovveee it and it is not one of his famous ones. Switching gears....my workout plan has been going great...still no dramatic results but I've been running and eating a a lot healthier. More talk later. Enjoy the twinkie pic of me, my mom, and snoopy (don't we all look alike?) Have a lovely evening!

cleaning the house, phase 2....FINAL DRAFT!!!

2009-07-28T11:42:00.000-05:00

Ok so regutting my room was so successful....I'm going to continue for the rest of my house. Yesterday I did the living room.....it looks MUUUUCH better....I'm also planning on learning more about what Faulkner county is doing to become green, they don't give us much information on how to recycle. (mental note: I need to get an estimate on getting my bike fixed). So I bought a new picture to go over my entertainment center (pictures later) and (get excited!!) my find of the day....a HUGE mirror for $30!!!!! The same mirror was $140 at Hobby Lobby!! ssoooooo excited...its going over my couch...keep checking this blog for edits! i'll have pics by tonight.

*****THE PICTURES ARE IN*****

Here is my living room....This is my favorite shot!!! (check out my awesome mirror!!)

I really wish I had taken some before pictures so you could see the dramatic difference...the kitchen, however isn't a dramatic difference...its just clean :)

I made that centerpiece myself! and here are my precious fishies.....the white one is Hootie and the black one is Doc...i also have 2 snails and two mini fish...you cannot see them ...and they are yet to be named.

This completes another episode of MTV cribs....Arkansas addition....leave meh sum COMMMENTS!!! fo now....it's bedtime....PEACE!

Ode to Kelsey Scroggings!

2009-07-23T11:49:00.001-05:00

Quick overview: I've lived with my brother in a duplex by the Conway airport for the last year...we were planning to move, but found it more beneficial to not move. In the past year I have changed A LOT....i mean it. I've noticed i'm a completely different person, my family definitly knows it, and my friends can see it. I'm finally happy. so, what do those two sentences have in common??? the start of my new future. I'm starting to be much more thankful for what I have and excited about what is to come. So today....I'm fixing up my less-than-pleasant duplex and making it brand new. I'm going to scrub EVERY inch of it!! Yes, not kidding....I will have a bucket of pine sol and comet and clean corners, baseboards, ledges...i'm even gutting my cabinets and scrubbing those out. I PROMISE, not one inch of the house will be untouched (in other words...i'm going to Kelsey Scroggins clean :) ) So right now, i'm eating New England Clam chowder soup (lunch of champions) and reading the Young House Love blog (formally "this young house) and about to burn a cd. I will edit this same post tonight when I"m done with pictures and information about the day....be sure to check it out again!!! ***que jeapordy theme music***

Alrighty!!!! I lied ...I swore I was going to do the whole house but I literally have only been doing my room from 2-11. I took a bucket of pine sol and wiped down all of my walls, dust/webs off my ceiling, wiped down doors, floor boards... EVERY inch of all of my furniture. Those are the things you can't tell by the pictures, but I surely can...here are some shots: This is before.

Here are some intermediate shots...about the time when I started realizing just how long this was going to take.

P.S...This is why things take longer at my house...thanks Snoop for helping with the laundry!

Here's two out of my EIGHT organized drawers.
Here's my new best friend...my expandable folder...best. invention. EVER.

Definitly the highlight of my day....cleaning out my closet...Kels, I took your advice and changed all my hangers to white.. Here's the before and the after.aaaaannnddd finally...the after pictures of my room

If you like Pina Coladas...

2009-07-18T19:16:00.000-05:00

Actually, I don't like Pina Coladas...I do, however, enjoy a nice glass of White Zinfindel blush wine. That is exactly what I am enjoying right now. I swept off my back porch, bought my dog a retracktable leash (she broke her cheap one) and filled up/lit my tiki torches...it feels like a beautiful fall day and i'm in love with it. It's unbelievable how incredible this weather feels. i planned on detailing the duplex today but I can't seem to drag myself back inside...The simple pleasures in life :) Life moves so fast these days that I never get to do my creative writing anymore, nor do I "take in moments" as much as I use to so let's do that (as weird as it might turn out to be. I live by the airport. All I can see is a spotless blue sky and planes gliding in. There is the aroma of tiki oils in the air and a cool breeze is gently blowing my hair out of my face. To compliment the perfect weather is the red oak tree i'm sitting undernegth...I don't exactly live in a "pretty" neighborhood but the oak trees in this area are everywhere, and they are gorgeous. I'm sitting with my best friend (Snoopy) and drinking a cold glass of wine...best of all, Counting Crows "Holiday in Spain" is playing. This would never get old....I wish I could do this everyday. The only thing that could POSSIBLY make this moment better is a hammock....the ones that tie to a tree not the ones that stand alone. aaahhhhh!!!! Life is good. Well...I might be going back to my hometown tomorrow night.... i never go there anymore (because my family lives in Missouri and I LOVE it up there) but my entire family is in Magnolia. My aunt is losing her battle against breast cancer and my mom is taking it extremely hard....I love my own sister so much, I cant imagine losing her....i'm sure I'll tell you all about the possible trip later. For now i'm going to relax on my porch for a bit longer. Stay safe this weekend!! Oh and Kels, good luck on your dress...I want pictures!!
"Breath. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure." --Oprah Winfrey“

A 6 year old just called me a chickenhead....

2009-07-14T16:33:00.000-05:00

Wowza...what a weekend. Ok...so Thursday, I received a message from my work that said "Fugitive, tonight, Simon Park, 9:30." Random signs have just been popping up at Marketplace Grill that simply said "The fugitive: coming soon" so anticipation was extremely high. My best friend Wes came back into town from West Texas so we went up to the park. 30 other people showed up! So half the people were cops and the other half were fugitives (I was a fugitive). The cops blindfold us and took us 4 miles from "base." we have to split up and sneak our way back across town to get to base without a "cop" catching us...I got caught :( but I almost made it! Anyway, it was a really fun way to get excercize...and beleive me, I was SORE the next day!

Friday was Zack's birthday. fun. Met some new people, that's always nice. Oh! I found out his roommate is Tommy Gun's (the boxer off rocky VI) son, he's huge but really nice. Anyway....HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY, ZACK!!!!!

***deep breath***ok...on to Saturday...Wes, Holly, and me went to Joe's Wedding in Eureka Springs. It was BEAUTIFUL!!!!! and short...which I like....but the reception was at the Haunted Cresent hotel..SOOO much fun...i love Wes and Holly!! Here are some pics.....the first one is Holly an Wes getting scared because we saw a "ghost," and the second is Wes knocking over the entire water fountain on me....I was DRENCHED!!

Finally, Sunday , I worked a double and watched Harry Potter with Zack! Oh! Last my friend from high school, Matt Ross, got engaged to an AMAZING girl and I am so thrilled!!! OK....well Zack and I are about to make grilled chicken greek salads tonight so I'm going to jump on that!! ta ta!

Weeeednesday!!!!

2009-07-08T14:19:00.000-05:00

So I was on facebook the other night...I got a message from someone I haven't seen since high school, Isaiah. He is a workout fanatic!! So we got to talking about what would be best for me and what I like about him over most people is he actually talked to me about MY needs and wasn't real harsh because he understood how I felt. So my first "step" was to start running first thing in the morning...and you know what? It hasn't been that hard! I actually feel a lot better throughout the day. So I just went on a run outside of the neighborhood and then took Snoopy for a run. Then I came back and made a ham, swiss cheese, lettuce, red wine viniger sandwhich...I forget how good those are...yuuum. I'm going to try to get back into the yoga at nightime too. I was hardcore into that my freshman year and I loved it!! My figure changed and I had more stamina. Now that I am mentally happy I think it can just elevate my health. (I'm saving the Mental happiness post for another time...I really want to talk about it but I"m just not ready). So anyway, I'm just trying to be my best self. It's hit me that this is my last year in college and I really want to grasp the full experience...I'm going to stay busy! Oh! I have also decided to stay in the duplex I am currently in for another year, which means that instead of moving the first week of August, I am going to PHYCHO clean! take one day and organize every inch of the house. Then take the next day to basically clorox the entire house. I'm actually very excited!!! :D So what's on for today? I'm about to pick up my room, take a shower, and head to work! So stay fly! and have a grrreeeeat day!

A lot going on....but not really.

2009-07-07T12:03:00.000-05:00

Well I had a great night last night. One of my BFF's, Wes, came in for visit. We pulled out my Michael Jackson cd and dance and sang all night. He actually bought "Off the Wall" and "Thriller" Vinal records for $5 two weeks before Michael Jackson passed away. Speaking of which, I'm watching Michael Jackson's memorial service now. Controvery aside...look at the impact this guy had on the world. Smokey Robinson just read 2 heartfelt letters: one from Diana Ross, one from Nelson Mandella on the impact he had on their lives. Maya Angelou also felt compelled to write something....beautiful. He wrote songs like "Man in the Mirror" and "heal the world"....he didn't just talk about making the world a better place, he obsessed over it. I could go on and on about him but i'm just going to stop. I can only hope I leave a legacy like that (the impact, not the scale) when I pass away. Alright, I wrote all that two hours ago, now the service is over and no joke, i have cried myself sick. It was perfect, if you didn't get to see it then look it up. His daughter made me BAWL, and like his brother, Marlon said, "maybe now people will leave him alone." I had a lot more to write about but I guess I'll save it for another time. I am much more overwhelmed than I thought I would be..... R.I.P.

I wish I was more interesting...

2009-07-06T00:45:00.000-05:00

Man, I started off being SUCH a good blogger and now i'm camping in "fail"ville. Oh well, let's see if we can pick up where I left off...let's see....STILL sad about Michael Jackson. OH!! I have decided what my next big investment will be....a keyboard. My friend works at guitar center, and when i visited with him I fell in love with a keyboard they have...so I guess i need to pick up some extra shifts. Once I acheive my goal I plan to learn counting crows song first...."holiday in spain"....i'm so excited...i love them. OOOOH I got a new phone too....FINALLY!! I'm so excited...It is an LG Banter.

So my friend Stephen (guitar center guy) is helphing me make ringtones today...so me and snoopy are about to run to his houseto do that! Have a great Monday in this beautiful weather.

tragic week

2009-06-29T22:54:00.000-05:00

I know this is really weird, but I have seriously just been so sad since the news about Michael Jackson. I mean, it's weird because I felt like I truly lost a friend...Since Thursday I have barely jammed ANYthing but his music...I forgot how much I missed it...we truly lost a legend. *sigh* I could talk about this all night but I'm really trying to quit being so sad. Well let's talk about today...I'm off work today and tomorrow so today was my "detail" day. So I cloroxed the kitchen and bathroom counters, dusted, windexed, and vacuumed the rest of the house. Best part of the day? I bathed my dog! She looks so cute and fluffy now! I love it! Oh...AND washed my sheets, fluffed my bed, and took my comforter to the cleaners I'll have a good night sleep tonight!!! I also cooked Stir fry and made homemade salsa...YUM! (Still sad btw) However, a rerun of my favorite show is on and it's making me feel a lot better (SCRUBS). AH! Here comes my favorite song on the show...Cary Brothers-Blue Eyes. Check it out, I think you'll love it. Well, I'm going to go spend some time with Zack now...have a lovely evening and I will report tomorrow! NIGHT!

Special Bulliton*

2009-06-25T17:54:00.000-05:00

MICHAEL JACKSON DIED?!?!?!?? I'm So upset!!!!! I don't care about his private life but as an artist....truly an icon, and I am truly upset!!! I have over 25 songs of his, 2 dvds, and even a michael jackson hat. I was so excited a few months ago because I heard he was doing a huge performance in the fall.....man! Life is crazy! RIP Michael!!!

Oh my my, Oh hell yes, honey put on that party dress!

2009-06-25T16:23:00.000-05:00

Allllrighty! Thursday!!!! I didn't blog yesterday because my friend from Magnolia, Samantha, suprised me and came in....and I worked: Marketplace Grill (suprisingly I love my job). Anyway....we went to Eernie Biggs last night, which I hate...i really hate club scenes....but it was her bday and I went anyway. So....hated being there but on the bright side they had a GREAT dj....guess what came on??? House of Pain-Jump around.....hellllooooo early 90's!!!! I have been jamming that song all day...it just makes me grin. (your welcome for that flashback btw). So what's going on the rest of the week?? **deep breath** I'm about to dust and vacuum the house, take snoopy for a run, then getting ready for Chance's bday party! Chance is one of my manager's at marketplace and one of the cooolest cat's i know so I reserved the party room at gusano's for him...40 people RSVP and I know way more are coming...YIKES!!!! but exciting..... Tomorrow I work then go to Summer's rehersal dinner...Saturday: SUMMER'S WEDDING!!!! and my sister, Lexi's, bday BBQ that night. **sigh of relief** I haven't seen my sister in forever...she graduated med school a year ago and now works about 80 hours a week :( I miss her....Anyway!So what else is new? That's about it actually...so you may not hear from me for a couple of days but when I return....i'm sure I have a TON to talk about!! Have a lovely weekend.

Capital "S" oh yes, SO fresh, "N-double O-P"

2009-06-23T20:31:00.000-05:00

Well here I am in my CLEAN living room with muh baby girl Snoop and my boyfriend Zack. What's on my mind? Right now it's Zelda. I have again started playing Nintendo 64 "Ocarina of Time." well...actually, Zack has taken it over. Moving on! I'm pretty proud of myself for keeping the house so clean. I'm a very messy/random/sparatic person by nature but i'm really trying to have a more adult/professional mindset. Here is my CLEAN bedroom!

This is actually a "middle picture" I took down the picture frame over my nightstand and put two more on either side of my bed (Thanks Hobby Lobby!). I also added a fake cherry blossom plant on my dresser for a more serene feeling. On the right side is my beautiful desk and window. OH!!! my other summer project is finished!!! I redid my bathroom! yes, I finally got rid of the pink/green/orange teen bathroom I had and made it into a more spa/beachy scene! here are many angles.

I recently had the oportunity to sit down with and AMAZING and very accomplished woman in the PR industry (or "public communication" as she prefers it to be called). She suggested that I start a portfolio of my work, (i've combed through my resume about 100 times, as well!). So let's see, where does that leave me...clean house (check) clean mind (check), and working on my portfolio. I really want to work for a non profit and my mom has a friend that wants me to intern for a bird conservation agency. At first I thought the idea was not my cup o' tea but then I started thinking, I actually am very passionate about conservation...and even though birds aren't my forte'...it might be a great opportunity because I would go to work every day with an "I still have a lot to learn mindset" and eager to give it my all. Ok....My final thoughts of the day? "I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life's a bitch. You've got to go out and kick ass. " -- Maya Angelou. :)

new blogger

2009-06-22T22:38:00.000-05:00

well darlings...this is my first blog... We shall see how this turns out. Some random facts about me....Anthony Hopkins is my favorite actor...Metallica is my favorite band, dafodills (sp?) are my favorite flowers and this blog is getting extremely hard because my miniature beagle, Snoopy, keeps biting my nose...she's precious (as you can see) but trouble (which i love).... I really don't know who will actually read this but mabe it's a great place where i can just let loose and say what's on my mind without judgement. Let's see...more about myself, I'm a Public Relations major at UCA and hoping to work in non profit. I wish I had the skills and money to be a decorator or wedding planner...i love creativity!!! Oh....i have a wonderful family. We recently lost one member,

our 14 year old lab, Jericoh....i'm getting teary eyed just writing that so lets move on....actually.....what a downer...i'll finish later....enjoy the pictures!

RIP sweet boy....