Ffiteen

Dear fifteen year old self:

     Happy birthday, sister sue! Today is the day- the big 28. I know it seems light years away, but you will get there. Promise. I was listening to the radio and a song came on, "Fifteen". Its a song to your fifteen year old self, however with a few pointers. I thought I'd take a little time and write to you. You know, giving you a couple of tips. I mean, why jump in the mud puddle if you don't have to.

-Actually listen to dad. Slow down. And don't be so heavy on the brake. You will get in a couple of fender benders. Yes, they are your fault.

- I know, I know! Its important to study. Duh. But please, take the time to go out every once in awhile in high school. I mean it. Its not going to kill you. Don't be so vanilla. In fact, I know you are going to surprise yourself. Making excuses for the good times that you could POSSIBLY be having is ridiculous.

- That guy in high school English? Yeah, the cute one? I know you're on the fence about him. Date him. In the end, you will get your heart broken. You will cry and listen to stuff like Boys II Men. I know, you don't even like Boys II Men. It will feel like a huge blow.You will not understand and it will be his loss, but that is ok. Its just a rite of passage. You will learn , no, actually realize, for the first time, how powerful feelings really can be.

- Let me just help you out now. Invest yourself in some curl cream, frizz control serum and a flat iron. Either your hair can be naturally curly like Andie McDowell OR flat flat flat. Poufy is not an option.

-Don't be so hard on yourself. Everyone makes mistakes. Really. You don't have to have all your crap together. It will take you at least the next 10+ years to figure this one out, if you don't listen to me now.

- Glitter body lotion doesn't look good on anyone. At all.

- Your faith. Don't, don't lose sight of it. It is ok to question it. In fact, when you get to college, you will question it. You will question it even more when you get out. That is ok. It means you are growing. Its hard to see that right now, when you are amidst the superficial youth group. Keep going to Bible study, keep hanging out with good quality friends. But make the right decisions for you. Pray about it, seek some guidance, and move on. Sometimes He calls us to jump. Jump, damn it.

- Speaking of college- don't start off as a pharmacy major. That is a 1.4 GPA headache at home. The parentals will not be happy. Pick something like..... speech pathology? Just a hunch...

- The guy from theater class. Nope. Not worth it.

-Your first job will be the current job that you have. You will absolutely love it. Start getting excited! When they tell you how much you will be making- cheer!! Scream! Call mom!! Hooray. Can you believe it? Benefits?? Just know that it will get better.

- When you get that job, little will you know that you will be working with some of your best friends. Speak to them! You will only be best friends with them sooner! Believe it or not, they will be a source of faith and comfort in the next few years. And they will go to see Twilight with you. More about that in a few years...

- Don't worry about grad school. He will provide a way, the finances and the talents for you to go. Remember to thank Him everyday for the passion you love.

- For the love of Pete, STOP buying Target blouses. Yes, they are cute- I know. They tear up easily. And you spend more money. It will be a vicious cycle. Just stop. Target shoes, however, you're still golden.

- Your twenty's will be an exact opposite of emotions. You will both experience a love for a person so deep that it becomes your only sight but also heartache so painful it leaves you blinded. Sigh. You will still be on the wave at 28. Know this. Life is to short for grief. Life is to short to be alone. And life is to short to be without Him.

I hope this helps you. Fifteen is rough, but you will be fine. I love you!

      -L

P.S. and for God's sake, stand up! Pull your boobies back, you have some awful posture!
 

Halfsies

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Congratulations!

We've all made it to the half-way point of 2012.

Whether you've been flying high in 2012 or you've made it by the skin of your teeth, nevertheless, we've made it.

I took a few minutes this morning to think about my New Year's resolutions. Had I made any progress? Or started at all?

Here's a quick re-cap...

1) Speaking of half's, run a 1/2 marathon.... this is still a no. Sigh. I want to. A wonky foot put me out of comission for awhile, and I'm just getting (s-l-o-w-l-y) back in the swing of things. Maybe a Fall 1/2 is in store for me?

2) Keep blogging... check. Blogging is/has been just another creative outlet for me, and I'm humbled by the e-friends I have made. Thanks for all of your funny anecdotes and encouragement.

3) Finish my quilt. Jeez, why on Earth is this one so hard? I came to a total halt with it AND sewing in general. I am determined to knock it out this year.

4) Save money.. a continual check. I'm actually kind of proud of myself. All those days rolling my eyes and eating tuna fish and trail mix for lunch have paid off.

5) Branch out of school therapy... this has been a yes and no.  Have I branched out of school therapy.. um, technically yes. Branching out into an unexpected, fun retail position.. not quite the same kind of therapy. I'm hoping in a few months I can push up my sleeves and find more medical waters.

6) Work on me... Jeez, that looks super corny typed out. But you know what I mean.... I think. Reflecting back towards the beginning of the year, I'm suprised at the number of new things I'm trying. Taking a "just for fun" part time job, challenging my faith in a healthy, positive way, pushing myself during uncomfortable moments- all things I would've been too scared or too uncomfortable to attempt. I'm learning it's ok to be both practical and risky. To not have it all exactly mapped out. Because I might miss some real gems along the way. Now, I feel different. Better. And I'm thankful.

How about you? Still sticking with yours?





Spring Break Worker Bee

Hello Spring Break, it's nice that you're here again.

9 GLORIOUS, empty days lie before me.

Ahhh.

I think I'll take a day to lounge around, watching endless episodes of People's Court, but what am I going to do the rest of the time, you ask?  Yeah, I was wondering that, too. I certainly don't want to waste it all. In a free moment this afternoon, I made myself a To-Do List. It just helps me, umm... organize..  People's Court amongst my fun things.

1- READ, READ, READ. Now that Grad School is over, I've had the availability to read to my heart's content. And read, I have.  Let me tell you, it's been just deliciously wonderful. Staying up late, with blankets over my head, soaking in the coziness. I didn't realize how much I missed it.

 This is just some of  my little Goodwill stash that I keep. Like a nerdy junkie. It's a total high walking away with some bestsellers for pennies.

2- CLEAN and PURGE. I'm trying not to shop, so I guess I need to Spring Clean. I mean, everyone has to this time of year, right?

3- EAT MINDFULLY- You guys know that I eat terribly. I'm really surprised (and profusely thankful) that I'm not on one of those awful TLC TV shows. For a few weeks (or months), I've tried to incorporate more fruits/veggies/ lean meats. And this goes great for a few meals, but then my hands shake start to shake and I inhale some Sbarro mall food and wash it down with a Diet Coke  give in. Oddly enough, also like a junkie (I sense a theme here). And the cycle continues. This will be a good week to practice better habits. At least, my hands can shake in the privacy of my house while I try to inhale some broccoli.

4- ORGANIZE SOME THOUGHTS ON PK INTERVENTION.... AND TEACH IT.  A few months ago, I had the kind offer to substitute teach a class on PK speech/language intervention at my undergrad Alma Mater, Ole Miss. It just so happens to be at the end of this week. Now, the hard part of gathering some ideas so I don't sound like a bumbling idiot. And while we're at it, let's take a vote: Powerpoint or Handout? I feel like I'm gonna need one or the other.

5- QUILT- I know, I know, start it already. But I kinda have. I've practiced on some scraps, getting the quilting process down. You should see my gnarly looking pot holder-esque squares.

6- MISC. CRAFTING- Of course, at some point I'll try to sneak a paint project or craft in somewhere. I just can't help it.

What do you do on an extended vacation??

    



Creature of Habit

 There are few things in life that I love more than stumbling upon an epic find. 

Trying out some new product, thing, or idea and...

--SURPRISE-- 

It completely changes you. Your life becomes better, easier, faster, sunnier, no matter how trivial. And then you like them so much, you keep going back to them. And you buy 4 of them. Cue the Julie Andrew's music.

 Here are a few of my Favorite Things.. well, as of lately.

1) Old Navy Rockstar Skinny Jeans

Oh, how I love these. I never thought exposing so much of my leg could make me feel so.. liberated. They have just enough stretch that I can feel comfortable eating my beloved McDonald's Filet o Fish for lunch. And I'm kinda digging the the collection of Rainbow Bright colors. 

2) Target Milena Wedge

The perfect shoe. Not a heel and not a flat. Simple enough for dressy days. Simple enough for errands. They come in simple colors. Perfect.

3) Pinky- White Nude Nail Polish

I've really re-kindled a love for polish. But as much as I'm loving it again, only my toesies are seeing the colors. My hands, however, are on a quest for the perfect pinky-white nude.

OPI's Bubble Bath has been satisfying my craving, lately.

4) Urban Outfitters Scarves

Mmmm.. a more recent find.  I can't quite explain it, they're a bit grungy, a bit casual, and a bit glamorous. One of those infinity scarves can't be beat.

5) Benefit Cosmetics

Amidst the wave of mineral make-ups, buffing brushes, and "barely there looks", I think I'm the last person on the Earth that wears a full liquid foundation+pancake concealer. Everyday. There's just something about "cheerleader competition" make-up that I swoon over. Benefit is a great little line out of CA. They have some beautiful things in a kinda kitchy, retro wrap. Just playing with the samples at Sephora just gives me the willies inside.

6) Music

That sounds like most cliche-est answer ever.

But it's true.

 My family has always loved music. Drewsie and I still don't think twice about calling each other just to catch up and share a couple of great songs. But in the last half year, I've taken a real nose dive back into it. Old stuff, TV jingles, radio music, dance music, and stuff I would have never even considered. It just makes me feel.. together- like I have my head on straight. Like a big gulp of water. And I like that feeling now.

Here, let me give you a smidge.

*  The complete Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band album- The Beatles

* "Video Games" and "Diet Mt. Dew"- Lana Del Rey

* "As Much as I Ever Could" -City and Colour

*  "Holocene" -Bon Iver

*The complete Brothers album- The Black Keys

* "End of the Line" and "Comeback Kid"- Sleigh Bells

* The classical piece  Clair de Lune

*The 30 #1's- Elvis Presley

* some Iron and Wine

* " You're a Wolf" - Sea Wolf

* The Karen O and Trent Reznor cover of Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song"

What are some of your constant favorites? Do YOU have some "til death do we part" items?

 

 

Chain Gang

I'm a total sucker when it comes it to chain mail/letters and spam.

 It's a total weakness.

 I'm just saying, let's BOTH be glad that the Narobi-princes-who-will-double-our-money-if-we-deposit-some-in-a-Swiss-bank-account-thingy is a hoax.

So when I found this funny from my "e-friend" Alex, I couldn't resist.

The Rules:1. You must post the rules.
2. Post 11 fun facts about yourself on the blog post.
3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post. And then create 11 new questions for the people you tagged.
4. Tag 12 people and link them on your post.
5. Let them know you've tagged them.

11 Umm Kinda Fun Facts...

1) I can touch my tongue to my nose.

2) When I was a kid, I played church softball and played progressively worse with each passing year. I quit when I missed every pitch thrown to me.

3) I keep polish on my toes at all times. Even in the winter. And if it chips, I take it all off and start over. What's that you say? What color is it now? Essie's Power Clutch:

4) In the 10th grade, I went to Europe- well, specifically Switzerland, Italy, and the French Riviera. 11 eye opening days of food, culture, and language.  I think abut that trip at least once a week.

5) I might have shared it before, but I am really good at winning things on the radio. Really good. A few years ago, we won a trip to New York City to see a Broadway play. Why am I telling you this again? Because, the other day, I just miiiiiight have qualified to go to the Grammy's in a few weeks. Air high five.

6)  My blood sugar is kinda wonky. I have, HAVE to eat breakfast. Everyday. Usually within an hour of waking up. No exceptions. If not, I'll start shaking and just fall out on the floor. And usually with said breakfast, I have to have a couple of swigs of Dr. Oz's Green Monster Drink. Yum!

7) Yes, I was a sorority girl in college. At a notorious party school. But I hate that term. And the negative associations it brings.

8) A work friend and I started a silly game. We play "Who Could Be Our Friend". Basically, it's a celebrity that you think could literally be your friend in real life. And you start a club. Who have we decided upon this week?  Adele (because never mind her vocal chops, it's her British accent we're after), Kristen Stewart ( because she wears Chucks and we want her to be happy), Katy Perry ( she just seems so-gosh darn fun), Ben from the Bachelor ( need I detail this?), Rooney Mara ( so lovely, demure and a bat from hell, all in one ), and Zooey Deschanel (because of her bangs and eyeliner).

9) I didn't know what a jump drive was until 1.5 years ago.

10) I'm afraid of big dogs. Will I cry and wheeze and carry on. No. But if I see one, I get a bit geeked out.

11)  My brother shut my left pinkie in the door when I was in the 1st grade. The doctor told Mi Madre that I was lucky he was able to save it.

Alex's Questions For ME...

1. Mac or PC? PC, I don't think I know how to turn on a Mac.
2. What is a song you can't help but dance to? Whoa man, this is impossible. I LOVE to dance. Tonite was Zumba and we did the Wobble- and I let it loose.
3. Do you collect anything or have way to much of something? In trouble here. Lately, it's been shoes and cardigans.
4. How do you separate your laundry? This may seem like a boring question, but I always wonder if there are better ways to do it.  Brenon and I do separate laundry. I separate mine into lights, darks, towels/sheets, and handwashables.
5. What is the most adventurous thing you've ever done? Hmm, toughie. I think I am adventurous?? I've bungee jumped, gotten a tattoo, rappelled, and gotten my ear pierced at a gas station on a church trip. Does any of this count??
6. What would be your last meal on earth? Assuming calories don't matter, mushroom quesdillas, my mom's scalloped potatoes, Mrs. Cherry's cranberry salad, Gardetto Brown Garlic Circles, Diet Coke, a Reese's Peanut Butter Egg, and a few shortbread cookies from Panera. <Burp>
7. Where do you have no desire to travel to? Antarctica
8. How would you describe your decorating style? It once was Kirkland's-y (chuckle, chuckle), but now maybe shabby, light, and a bit more modern. With an art accent wall. Love those.
9. Naming something you are really good at. Go ahead, brag! I'm good at snow skiing.
10. Did you have a pet growing up? Yes. We had a slew of intermittent dogs, and then we had a cat named Phoebe, after the character on Friends. We thought it was a girl when we got him, but surprise! It was a Phil. Nevertheless, we didn't change the name, thus giving our spawn of Satan cat a complex.
11. What is your dream career? Oh boy, this is a great question. I LOVE speech. I LOVE therapy. But if I had to say, it would be a speech pathologist who moonlighted as a writer/buyer for Nordstrom's or some uber chic magazine, and having her Master's as a chef (can you have that??), with my own TV show. Did you get all of that? :)

My Questions for You....

1) Are you allergic to anything?

2) If a genie granted you one "do-over" for anything, would you take it? And if so, what?

3) What's the meaning of life?

4) Do you have a favorite drink?

5) Toilet paper: do you let it hang over or under?

6) What pair of shoes did you wear today?

7) I give you a dollar for the food kind of vending machine. What do you buy?

8) When was the last time you were embarrassed?

9) Taylor Swift has a song called Fifteen. It's about, as you might have guessed, what you would go back and tell yourself. What would YOU say to your fifteen year old self?

10) The majority of your grocery bill, on a pretty regular basis is _______________.

11) Have you ever run out of gas? When was the last time and where?

Tag! You're It!... (buuuut I'm just naming a few)

Lara@ My Milk Glass Heart

Jenny Beth @ Life on Lyford

Siebert @ My Mississippi Madness

Natalie S @ Sweet Notes from The Stickles House

Katherine @ Katherine and Chris

Natalie P @ Natalie's News

Resoluted..

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Happy New Year, friends!

I hope your night was magical- filled with sparkles, party dresses, horns, and boisterous shouts of merriment. Yes, indeed, more magical than my merriment of blue fleece pajamas on the couch.

Do you make a resolution(s)?

I try to, but it always takes me a few days.

Last year, I was able to knock out a few..

The upstairs got painted, I finished grad school (Hallelujah!!), Sp. Ed. conferences were attended, and Bible Studies were continued.. But I didn't run a half. Despite me trying to sign up 6 MONTHS early, it was already full. Meh, oh well.

So after some thoughtful consideration, here are mine this year, ranging from obscure to serious.

Ye Ole Lofty Goals of 2012

1) Still continue to try to run a Half Marathon. I reallllly want to.

2) Be able to continue blogging. Maybe even add that little Disqus tab thingy so I can comment back?? Have you seen it?

3) Actually finish my quilt. I finally pieced the top together, but then promptly came to a screeching halt. I just need to zip zip zip the batting and back together. Easy peasy.

4) Save money. I mean, shouldn't we all?

5) Maybe branch out of school speech therapy world and venture back into the hospital waters again. No, not quit my precious job, but maybe just blend the two? But much better than oil and water, even thought they couldn't be more different.

6) My last one, and most personal, is one that I don't know how to even name or describe to you in a simple sentence. Perhaps as mostly women readers, you'll understand? Maybe you can relate or have felt this way. Or maybe not. High five, if you haven't.

I think for the last year or so I've been in a fog. Confused. On autopilot. Whatever you want to call it. Doing well, personable, and sociable, but just checked out. This feeling has slowly burned over time, starting off as a bit of smoke, and now, a full on bonfire. It's only been recent that I've really paid attention, despite its continued presence and self- medicating with "Emotional Rolaids".

 After some pondering, I think the root of it is I've just been "safe" or "just fine". Backwards, I know- but stay with me. There is absolutely nothing wrong with either of these emotions, but I suspect that both of these have led me to feel so conflicted. I've tried to please others to the point I have diminished any kind of personal opinions I might have to non-existent. As women, sometimes we can cater to others in such a way that you could wind up losing yourself, at your own expense. I can confidently tell you I have no earthly idea who I am. Not a clue. Why do I care what she says or what they don't do? What he tells me or what I should need. And all of this? It's made me worrisome and insanely self-conscious. Traits that no one should have consistently, at this intensity.

I dunno, perhaps this is a case of "the growing-up's". That everyone feels blind at some point, and this is just my turn. A dear friend of mine calls it being "in her winter", where it's cold and lonely and she finds it difficult to see the fruit of her life, even though she knows that it's there. Perhaps that is it? Maybe...

 So here's another resolution for me and you- let's really find out who we are this year. Like some corny line from a book or magazine, I really mean it. I want to find what makes me tic, what I like and don't, even if that means actually feeling, the good and the bad, to get me there. Make an effort. Whaddya say?

On writing overload? I'll leave you with a fitting cartoon.

Summer Lovin'.. errr, List

I'm a list maker. A "Type A" -er through and through.

 Now that June is here, I need to get a little organized. 

AHH- that feels better.

 Now, let's see how many of them I can actually finish.