Today is December 31st. The last day of 2012. I usually don't sit down to type "reflective" posts, even though I should do it more often. I try to keep things around here less serious than real life. But then I was thinking today about what a whirlwind 2012 has been, and I thought it might be nice to put my thoughts down on paper.
2012 started with M and I moving into a new house in Crowley... one we picked out together, furnished together, etc. It was a promising start to a new year. At the end of January, I started a new job with Weir. The first half of the year was pretty mild... not much happening, other than work and school, rinse and repeat.
July came with the news of a pending divorce which really shook my world in the beginning. I wasn't heartbroken in the sense that most people are when they are faced with a divorce. I've felt that M and I should have gone our separate ways several times over the past 10 years. Why either of us held on, I'll never know. So I moved out in the middle of the month, and made the 60 mile one way drive from Dallas for about 6 weeks. I'll be forever grateful to my friend, Carie, for letting me crash at her apartment, and essentially take over 1/2 of her space. Without her, I don't know that I would have made it... well, really, without my entire circle of friends and family.
There was tons of drama, but that's a little more than I want to share here.
On August 22nd, I got the keys to my new place and moved in that evening. My mom came down to be here with the movers, help me unpack and get settled in. My brother, his girlfriend, and my parents came back on Saturday to help again, and we went to dinner to celebrate my new found freedom, and the start of my newest journey. I truly have an amazing family. I'll always be grateful for them.
In September, I finally put a name to the face of "hottie neighbor guy (HNG)" as he was referred to for several weeks after numerous conversations about my dog, Chloe. (I'm still laughing at my inability to see that he was interested in me, and not just Chloe). We had our first official date in October, and have been pretty much inseparable ever sense. He's an incredible person, and I'm excited to continue to get to know him, spend time with him, etc.
Work continues to be stressful - but I guess that's the nature of the beast.
It's been a really long time I've been truly excited for the start of a new year, but I'm thrilled to ring in 2013. It'll be a low key NYE around here - but that's okay.
In 2013 - I will run my first half marathon, I will turn 30, I will graduate with my 2nd Master's degree, I will take a vacation with A to Boston, maybe a trip to Vegas to celebrate turning 30, I'd really like to move across the country to pursue a new career in one of the financial hubs of this country but only time will tell if that'll happen. 2013 is truly going to be a fantastic year!!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Sour Cream Parmesan Chicken
Here's the main course for tonight's dinner... so yummy! I found this one on Pinterest too, but the link associated with the recipe was broken. This is another recipe that I'd love to be able to give credit where credit is due... so if anyone finds it, PLEASE let me know.
Sour Cream Parmesan Chicken
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup parmesan
Italian bread crumbs
Chicken breasts
INSTRUCTIONS FROM PINTEREST
Simply mix 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese. Spread over chicken breast in a baking dish. Sprinkle Italian bread crumbs on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.
MY INSTRUCTIONS
I seasoned the chicken on both sides first, using onion powder, garlic powder, Lawry's, salt and pepper. I mixed up the sour cream and the parmesan mixture, and spread it evenly over three chicken breasts in a glass baking dish. I sprinkled the Italian bread crumbs on top of that, and put it in the oven, uncovered, @ 350* for 45 minutes.
Sour Cream Parmesan Chicken
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup parmesan
Italian bread crumbs
Chicken breasts
INSTRUCTIONS FROM PINTEREST
Simply mix 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese. Spread over chicken breast in a baking dish. Sprinkle Italian bread crumbs on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.
MY INSTRUCTIONS
I seasoned the chicken on both sides first, using onion powder, garlic powder, Lawry's, salt and pepper. I mixed up the sour cream and the parmesan mixture, and spread it evenly over three chicken breasts in a glass baking dish. I sprinkled the Italian bread crumbs on top of that, and put it in the oven, uncovered, @ 350* for 45 minutes.
Creamy Garlic Pasta
When I started this blog - I had no real direction where it would go. I still don't. I just like sharing things, I love writing, and well, this is the love child of those two hobbies. So far, the majority of my posts have been cooking related. For anyone who knows me, and has known me for the past 10+ years, cooking has never been one of my strong talents. I've always struggled in the kitchen. A lot of it, I'm finding out, is due to the lack of confidence and the lovely reminders of "not being able to do it" that I had in my ear.
When Carie (Carie's Cooking Corner) introduced me to the Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe she found online, I just knew I had to try it. (I don't have the link to this recipe - but if anyone finds it online, could you let me know? I definitely want to give credit where credit is due. This recipe is amazing!)
I'm posting two recipes tonight (Creamy Garlic Pasta and Sour Cream Parmesan Chicken) without pictures. I never think about posting the recipes and pictures to this blog until it's too late.
Creamy Garlic Pasta
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
3 cups chicken stock
1/2 lb spaghetti or angel hair pasta
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
INSTRUCTIONS
In a pot, bring the olive oil to medium-low heat. Add the garlic and stir, allowing it to cook for 1 - 2 minutes. Mix in the butter until melted. Add the salt, pepper, and chicken stock. Raise the heat to high and let it come to a boil.
Once it is at a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook for as long as the box's directions indicate. Reduce the stove to medium heat and mix in the parmesan until completely melted. Turn off the heat and stir in the cream and parsley. Serve immediately.
*** I didn't change anything with this recipe either. It makes a lot of pasta, but I'd much rather have left overs than try to adjust the recipe. I ended up having to leave out the parsley because I forgot it at the store, but I would imagine that adding the parsley would make this dish that much more delicious. I'll definitely be cooking this one again.
When Carie (Carie's Cooking Corner) introduced me to the Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe she found online, I just knew I had to try it. (I don't have the link to this recipe - but if anyone finds it online, could you let me know? I definitely want to give credit where credit is due. This recipe is amazing!)
I'm posting two recipes tonight (Creamy Garlic Pasta and Sour Cream Parmesan Chicken) without pictures. I never think about posting the recipes and pictures to this blog until it's too late.
Creamy Garlic Pasta
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
3 cups chicken stock
1/2 lb spaghetti or angel hair pasta
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
INSTRUCTIONS
In a pot, bring the olive oil to medium-low heat. Add the garlic and stir, allowing it to cook for 1 - 2 minutes. Mix in the butter until melted. Add the salt, pepper, and chicken stock. Raise the heat to high and let it come to a boil.
Once it is at a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook for as long as the box's directions indicate. Reduce the stove to medium heat and mix in the parmesan until completely melted. Turn off the heat and stir in the cream and parsley. Serve immediately.
*** I didn't change anything with this recipe either. It makes a lot of pasta, but I'd much rather have left overs than try to adjust the recipe. I ended up having to leave out the parsley because I forgot it at the store, but I would imagine that adding the parsley would make this dish that much more delicious. I'll definitely be cooking this one again.
Cranberry Jalapeno Dip
On Wednesday, November 21st, my mom called me to tell me about this cranberry jalapeno dip recipe that her friend Beverly told her about. The recipe is one of those from Pinterest, but it sounded intriguing. So off to the store I went to buy the ingredients...
Here's the recipe from Mel's Kitchen
Cranberry-Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip
INGREDIENTS:
12 ounces fresh cranberries
4-5 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely diced
1 cup sugar (more or less to taste)
1/2 teaspoon cumin
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 (8 ounces each) packages cream cheese, light or regular, softened
Crackers, for serving
DIRECTIONS:
Pulse the cranberries in a food processor or blender until coarsely chopped (alternately, you can do this task by hand). Add the green onions, cilantro, jalapeno, sugar, cumin, lemon juice and salt and pulse until the ingredients are well combined and finely chopped. Transfer the mixture to a covered bowl or tupperware and refrigerate for 4 hours (or up to overnight) so the flavors have time to develop and the cranberries lose a bit of their tartness.
When ready to serve, spread the cream cheese in an even layer on a serving plate or 9-inch pie dish. Top with the cranberry-jalapeno mixture, spreading evenly over the top of the cream cheese.
Refrigerate for up to an hour before serving. Serve with crackers or tortilla chips.
*** I followed this recipe exactly, and I wouldn't change a thing. It was THAT good. I didn't even bother to snap a picture of it. (Honestly, I forgot...) I ended up serving this with Triscuits and Wheat Thins. I liked Triscuits with it the best, but Mom liked the Wheat Thins.
I will definitely be trying this one again!
Here's the recipe from Mel's Kitchen
Cranberry-Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip
INGREDIENTS:
12 ounces fresh cranberries
4-5 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely diced
1 cup sugar (more or less to taste)
1/2 teaspoon cumin
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 (8 ounces each) packages cream cheese, light or regular, softened
Crackers, for serving
DIRECTIONS:
Pulse the cranberries in a food processor or blender until coarsely chopped (alternately, you can do this task by hand). Add the green onions, cilantro, jalapeno, sugar, cumin, lemon juice and salt and pulse until the ingredients are well combined and finely chopped. Transfer the mixture to a covered bowl or tupperware and refrigerate for 4 hours (or up to overnight) so the flavors have time to develop and the cranberries lose a bit of their tartness.
When ready to serve, spread the cream cheese in an even layer on a serving plate or 9-inch pie dish. Top with the cranberry-jalapeno mixture, spreading evenly over the top of the cream cheese.
Refrigerate for up to an hour before serving. Serve with crackers or tortilla chips.
*** I followed this recipe exactly, and I wouldn't change a thing. It was THAT good. I didn't even bother to snap a picture of it. (Honestly, I forgot...) I ended up serving this with Triscuits and Wheat Thins. I liked Triscuits with it the best, but Mom liked the Wheat Thins.
I will definitely be trying this one again!
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Vacation
It's awesome to type that word. :-) I'm on vacation! WOO HOO! I haven't taken a long vacation since 2011 when the ex-husband and I went with his family to Colorado. Ahhhh. Vacation.
So I'm not doing anything productive, or anything major. So far, I've done as little as possible. And quite frankly, it's AWESOME. On Friday, I did some house cleaning, but quickly ended that. Hah. At least my bathroom is clean. My task for Monday is to tackle the living room, dining room, kitchen since it's all one big room, and figure out a plan for where I'm going to put my Christmas tree.
Saturday, A and I made the drive to my parent's house, just to chill. We didn't really do much. A helped Frank unload some hay, my mom and I hung out, we went on a hike through their land, then dinner, then home. It was a good day. Low key, no drama, no bullshit, just fun. It was nice.
Today... the grocery store, AT&T, and maybe some baking or candy making. The good news with being home all week is that I really don't have a good excuse NOT to cook.
So who knows what this week will bring for me, other than relaxation, sleeping in, hanging with Chloe and A, and just enjoying not being at work.
I hope you all have a fantastic and wonderful Thanksgiving!
Much love,
C
So I'm not doing anything productive, or anything major. So far, I've done as little as possible. And quite frankly, it's AWESOME. On Friday, I did some house cleaning, but quickly ended that. Hah. At least my bathroom is clean. My task for Monday is to tackle the living room, dining room, kitchen since it's all one big room, and figure out a plan for where I'm going to put my Christmas tree.
Saturday, A and I made the drive to my parent's house, just to chill. We didn't really do much. A helped Frank unload some hay, my mom and I hung out, we went on a hike through their land, then dinner, then home. It was a good day. Low key, no drama, no bullshit, just fun. It was nice.
Today... the grocery store, AT&T, and maybe some baking or candy making. The good news with being home all week is that I really don't have a good excuse NOT to cook.
So who knows what this week will bring for me, other than relaxation, sleeping in, hanging with Chloe and A, and just enjoying not being at work.
I hope you all have a fantastic and wonderful Thanksgiving!
Much love,
C
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Pumpkin Cheesecake
It’s almost funny to me that I’m posting recipes on my new blog. I’ve never been much for cooking and certainly never tried new recipes that someone didn’t teach me how to make first. But, I figure now is as good of time as any – and it’s always helpful when I have someone there to eat it with me aka A. Plus, he likes my cooking… sucker!
I get wild ideas sometimes. Most people start small… not me. I wanted to bake a pumpkin cheesecake, so I did. I found this recipe on Pinterest (surprise, surprise!) and decided to go for it. I ordered a springform pan, bought all of my ingredients, and sat out to tackle this challenge. (It may not be a challenge for anyone else, but for me, CHALLENGE!)
Here’s the recipe…
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Crust
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tbsp margarine or butter
2 tbsp sugar
Mix the ingredients together and put in the bottom of a spring-foam pan. Tightly wrap the bottom of the pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from leaking into the spring-foam pan and bake in a water bath for 10 minutes. Cool completely on wire rack.
Filling
2 – 8 oz. packages of cream cheese, softened
1 ¼ cups sugar
16 oz. solid pack, canned pumpkin
¾ cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp allspice
¼ tsp salt
4 large eggs
Beat the cream cheese. Add the remainder of the ingredients except the eggs. After the ingredients are mixed together, add one egg at a time. Do not over beat. Pour mixture into cooled crust. Place the spring-foam pan inside another pan. Add boiling water to the pan until it comes up one inch of the sides of the spring-foam pan. Baker for 1 hour and 10 minutes or until the center barely jiggles.
Topping
1 cup sour cream
3 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla
After the cheesecake is removed from the water bath, spread the topping on the top of the cheesecake. Bake for another 5 minutes. Place completed cheesecake on wire rack. Loosen the sides of the cheesecake. Refrigerate at least six hours or overnight.
So now that you have the recipe – let’s talk about what happened to me. Hah. I always have to have a story. So I crush up my graham crackers, add the sugar, and butter and put the crush in the bottom of my spring-foam pan. Awesome, right?! I even cover the pan with aluminum foil like I’m supposed to. Apparently, my foil had a leak, because not more than 30 seconds after I sat the crust in the water bath, the pan was full of water. So I called Carie, who gave me some quick instructions on how NOT to do it the second time.
Here’s what I did differently…
I added 1 more tbsp of butter to the crust. I don’t know why. I just did. I probably shouldn’t have, but it turned out okay either way.
Instead of using allspice and cinnamon – I just put 2 tsp of pumpkin pie spice into the mixture. It was one less spice I had to buy. I’m cheap.
I did the topping on this cheesecake, but I don’t think it really adds anything to it. Next time, I’ll leave it off.
All in all – my first cheesecake experience was a good one, and holy crap, this cheesecake is good! A and I have already eaten ½ of it. In one day. Because we’re just that AWESOME. J
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Starting Over...
Starting a new blog is never fun. You have to reach out to all the readers you once had, and hope that they'll make the switch to the new blog. I mean - it sounds easy and all, and it's really only about updating their reader account, but still. I had a blog, once upon a time. I deleted it.
I'm starting a new life, a new journey, and I didn't want my soon to be ex husband and his family following me on the blog, and seeing what I'm up to. They don't deserve to know. :-) It's kind of nice, actually.
This blog doesn't have a specific focus... other than me. It's not going to be full of awesome recipes, or new craft projects, or hell, even be updated regularly. But I enjoy writing, and I enjoy having a place to put thoughts to "paper" so here I am.
I'm starting a new life, a new journey, and I didn't want my soon to be ex husband and his family following me on the blog, and seeing what I'm up to. They don't deserve to know. :-) It's kind of nice, actually.
This blog doesn't have a specific focus... other than me. It's not going to be full of awesome recipes, or new craft projects, or hell, even be updated regularly. But I enjoy writing, and I enjoy having a place to put thoughts to "paper" so here I am.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
I'm back.
In July, I made a decision to take this blog private. I didn't allow anyone to read my posts... not even close friends and family. I decided to use it as a sounding board for my own thoughts and feelings. In July, my soon to be ex husband told me he wanted a divorce. The next two months would be a whirl wind of feelings, emotions, decisions, moving, commuting, etc. I didn't want to share my anxiety, anger, relief, and eventually joy, with anyone.
But I'm back. I'm better. Each day, things become a little easier. And I have not been this happy version of myself in a really long time. I'm glad she's back again. I vow to never again let her disappear.
So to all the marriages, engagements, baby announcements, births of new babies, birthdays of friends, etc. that I've missed - I'm sorry. I hope you'll forgive me.
As I move forward in my life, make decisions that affect who I am and where I'm going - I hope you'll all be along for the journey. It's going to be one heck of a ride! :-)
~ Christina
But I'm back. I'm better. Each day, things become a little easier. And I have not been this happy version of myself in a really long time. I'm glad she's back again. I vow to never again let her disappear.
So to all the marriages, engagements, baby announcements, births of new babies, birthdays of friends, etc. that I've missed - I'm sorry. I hope you'll forgive me.
As I move forward in my life, make decisions that affect who I am and where I'm going - I hope you'll all be along for the journey. It's going to be one heck of a ride! :-)
~ Christina
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Advice - New Parents
Jar Question:
What would be your advice for someone having their first child?
I'd hate to give advice to anyone having their first child since I have no children of my own. I'd like to think that I would tell them to spend as much time with their spouse as they can before the baby is born, since their lives will change for the better once the baby is here. I'd tell them to focus on enjoying their pregnancy. I'd probably tell them to try to limit the complaining - while I'm sure that being pregnant can become uncomfortable, there are numerous couples that would change places with "you" in a heartbeat.
What would be your advice for someone having their first child?
I'd hate to give advice to anyone having their first child since I have no children of my own. I'd like to think that I would tell them to spend as much time with their spouse as they can before the baby is born, since their lives will change for the better once the baby is here. I'd tell them to focus on enjoying their pregnancy. I'd probably tell them to try to limit the complaining - while I'm sure that being pregnant can become uncomfortable, there are numerous couples that would change places with "you" in a heartbeat.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Television Game Show
Jar Question:
If you could be on any TV game show past or present, what would it be?
Wheel of Fortune. Without a doubt. I watch that show all the time, and I usually do pretty well. The money that I could potentially win wouldn't hurt either. :-)
If you could be on any TV game show past or present, what would it be?
Wheel of Fortune. Without a doubt. I watch that show all the time, and I usually do pretty well. The money that I could potentially win wouldn't hurt either. :-)
Friday, June 29, 2012
Piercings and Tattoos
Jar Question:
Do you or did you have any piercings or tattoos? Describe them.
I have no tattoos - although I've wanted one... for awhile now. If I ever do get the courage up to actually get a tattoo, I want it to be a drawing my Mom did. It's more like a doodle. But if you know anyone with MS, you know that they shake sometimes. Their muscles contract, and they don't often have control of their limbs. But my Mom did this "doodle" as she likes to call it after she was diagnosed with MS. I don't know why, but it's pretty special to me, and it would make an AMAZING tattoo.
As far as piercings go...
I've had my ears both pierced three times, one right after another, in my ear lobe. The only other thing I've ever had pierced is my belly button. I thought it was a great idea when I was 18, and MUCH skinnier, but the guy pierced it crooked and it never healed. After 2.5 years of it, I finally took it out.
Do you or did you have any piercings or tattoos? Describe them.
I have no tattoos - although I've wanted one... for awhile now. If I ever do get the courage up to actually get a tattoo, I want it to be a drawing my Mom did. It's more like a doodle. But if you know anyone with MS, you know that they shake sometimes. Their muscles contract, and they don't often have control of their limbs. But my Mom did this "doodle" as she likes to call it after she was diagnosed with MS. I don't know why, but it's pretty special to me, and it would make an AMAZING tattoo.
As far as piercings go...
I've had my ears both pierced three times, one right after another, in my ear lobe. The only other thing I've ever had pierced is my belly button. I thought it was a great idea when I was 18, and MUCH skinnier, but the guy pierced it crooked and it never healed. After 2.5 years of it, I finally took it out.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Childhood Memories - Fashion
Jar Question:
Describe how people dressed when you were a child.
Hmmm - things I remember about "fashion" from being a child...
Girls who tied their shirts to the side using pony tail holders...
M C Hammer Pants...
Mall bangs...
Those shirts that changed colors based on your body heat or something...
Acid washed jeans...
Doc Marten's...
SLAP BRACELETS!
Jelly shoes...
What in the hell were we thinking?!
Describe how people dressed when you were a child.
Hmmm - things I remember about "fashion" from being a child...
Girls who tied their shirts to the side using pony tail holders...
M C Hammer Pants...
Mall bangs...
Those shirts that changed colors based on your body heat or something...
Acid washed jeans...
Doc Marten's...
SLAP BRACELETS!
Jelly shoes...
What in the hell were we thinking?!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Sounds
Jar Question:
In your opinion, what is the most annoying sounds? Scary? Comforting?
Let's see - most sounds don't really annoy me, but that's only because I can usually tune them out, turn on the radio, or walk away. I think the MOST annoying sound to me is by far nails on a chalkboard. I get chills just thinking about it. Or, you know the way that chalk scratches a chalkboard, and it makes a shrill noise?! Yeah - ANNOYING! Heck, kids these days probably have never seen a chalkboard in their classroom.
Scary?! That one is a lot tougher for me to answer. I guess squealing tires... on a vehicle that's coming up behind me... fast. Or a gun shot from an unknown source. Anything that could possible mean the end of my life. While I'm not scared to die - I'm not ready to die either.
Comforting?! The sound of rain... laughter... my Mom's voice... Marcus (most of the time)... and my friends. Knowing that I have people in my life that I can count on, and hearing their voices when I need them the most.
In your opinion, what is the most annoying sounds? Scary? Comforting?
Let's see - most sounds don't really annoy me, but that's only because I can usually tune them out, turn on the radio, or walk away. I think the MOST annoying sound to me is by far nails on a chalkboard. I get chills just thinking about it. Or, you know the way that chalk scratches a chalkboard, and it makes a shrill noise?! Yeah - ANNOYING! Heck, kids these days probably have never seen a chalkboard in their classroom.
Scary?! That one is a lot tougher for me to answer. I guess squealing tires... on a vehicle that's coming up behind me... fast. Or a gun shot from an unknown source. Anything that could possible mean the end of my life. While I'm not scared to die - I'm not ready to die either.
Comforting?! The sound of rain... laughter... my Mom's voice... Marcus (most of the time)... and my friends. Knowing that I have people in my life that I can count on, and hearing their voices when I need them the most.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Celebrity Crush
Jar Question:
What celebrity did you have a crush on when you were young?
When I was young - the requisite crushes included Jonathan Taylor Thomas, one of the guys from New Kids on the Block, or Devon Sawa. Remember those guys?! I know I was no different from any of the rest of the girls my age. I had a poster in my room of all of the above. I even have a NKOTB sleeping bag.
Oh, to be young again...
What celebrity did you have a crush on when you were young?
When I was young - the requisite crushes included Jonathan Taylor Thomas, one of the guys from New Kids on the Block, or Devon Sawa. Remember those guys?! I know I was no different from any of the rest of the girls my age. I had a poster in my room of all of the above. I even have a NKOTB sleeping bag.
Oh, to be young again...
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Favorite Subject
Jar Question:
What was your favorite subject in school?
I'm fairly certain this will be the EASIEST question in this entire jar! :o) My favorite subject always has been, and probably always will be, English. Anything to do with English - from reading, to writing, to grammar. I absolutely, without a doubt, LOVE it all.
From an early age, I was a good reader, and I think that translated into so much more for me. I can remember being sent to the principal's office on the first day of 1st grade because I could read at a level much more advanced than that of my peers. I can also remember being held indoors during recess to help tutor those kids that were struggling with reading. Although I don't really remember it now, I'm not sure I would have minded. I've never been the "outdoor" type and I really dislike any sort of organized team sports... playing them, that is.
Even now - I read an average of 75 to 100 books a year. And while that may not seem like a lot to some people, it is when you add in a full time job and a full time graduate course load in school. But I love it. It's what helps me unwind after a grueling day at work, or helps calm my mind so that I can eventually go to sleep. I've also been known to start a book and stay up until 4:00 am reading it. :-)
What was your favorite subject in school?
I'm fairly certain this will be the EASIEST question in this entire jar! :o) My favorite subject always has been, and probably always will be, English. Anything to do with English - from reading, to writing, to grammar. I absolutely, without a doubt, LOVE it all.
From an early age, I was a good reader, and I think that translated into so much more for me. I can remember being sent to the principal's office on the first day of 1st grade because I could read at a level much more advanced than that of my peers. I can also remember being held indoors during recess to help tutor those kids that were struggling with reading. Although I don't really remember it now, I'm not sure I would have minded. I've never been the "outdoor" type and I really dislike any sort of organized team sports... playing them, that is.
Even now - I read an average of 75 to 100 books a year. And while that may not seem like a lot to some people, it is when you add in a full time job and a full time graduate course load in school. But I love it. It's what helps me unwind after a grueling day at work, or helps calm my mind so that I can eventually go to sleep. I've also been known to start a book and stay up until 4:00 am reading it. :-)
Personality
In keeping with yesterday's promise of blogging more, and starting the journey of answering all of the questions in the jar... I picked a question today.
If you could change on thing about your personality, what would it be and why?
I've sat here for a few moments thinking about this question. For the most part, I'm pretty fond of my personality. It's one of those things that is always evolving for me. I assume it's the same for everyone. I remember a time where my personality was more outspoken than it is now, and I'm still pretty outspoken. I think a lot of the changes have come from growing up, maturity, and realizing that being so quick tempered and emotional wasn't always the best reaction to every situation.
As I continue to get older, personality becomes more important. It shapes who we are, how we react to certain situations, the careers we have or don't have, the relationships and friendships we have. I think the thing I would change about my personality (if I could) is the fact that I tend to be very Type A, and I can't let things go.
I wish I were the type of person to just "roll with the punches" and not give two craps about the things people say or do to me. I know the saying... you can't change other people, but you can change how you react to them. I wish I could. I wish I could let things go, move on, not dwell on them, etc. But I can't. I'm not necessarily saying I hold a grudge, but I expect too much from people, and I'm often let down. When that happens - I struggle with just letting it go, moving on, and not worrying about those actions and how they affected me. Even 6, 9, 12 months down the road.
If you could change on thing about your personality, what would it be and why?
I've sat here for a few moments thinking about this question. For the most part, I'm pretty fond of my personality. It's one of those things that is always evolving for me. I assume it's the same for everyone. I remember a time where my personality was more outspoken than it is now, and I'm still pretty outspoken. I think a lot of the changes have come from growing up, maturity, and realizing that being so quick tempered and emotional wasn't always the best reaction to every situation.
As I continue to get older, personality becomes more important. It shapes who we are, how we react to certain situations, the careers we have or don't have, the relationships and friendships we have. I think the thing I would change about my personality (if I could) is the fact that I tend to be very Type A, and I can't let things go.
I wish I were the type of person to just "roll with the punches" and not give two craps about the things people say or do to me. I know the saying... you can't change other people, but you can change how you react to them. I wish I could. I wish I could let things go, move on, not dwell on them, etc. But I can't. I'm not necessarily saying I hold a grudge, but I expect too much from people, and I'm often let down. When that happens - I struggle with just letting it go, moving on, and not worrying about those actions and how they affected me. Even 6, 9, 12 months down the road.
Insecurity
One of the things that I hate the most about myself is my insecurity in new situations. I don't know why I have this, but I struggle with it. I've always hated the first day of class in a new semester, going somewhere I've never been before, etc. I get serious anxiety over it... stomach aches, nausea, the whole works. I can't explain it. I'm normally a pretty outgoing person, but it's the fear of not finding someone to be "friends" with or someone to talk to, and looking like the odd ball that doesn't socialize. I don't really know what it is - but I have it.
I have internal conversations with myself to overcome it. It's kind of ridiculous to be almost 30 years old and still struggle with it. I always feel better in numbers. I used to not be this way, but for whatever reason, lack of self confidence, self-esteem, etc. I've grown to be this way.
I'm only writing this post to share two things that I did this week that really were out of character for me.
Since moving to Fort Worth, I've wanted to get back into the gym, working out regularly, etc. I joined the YMCA in January with my brother's girlfriend, A. I went once. I had excuses. The gym she works out at is quite a drive from my house, and I hated getting up on Saturday mornings at 6 to be in an 8 am class. Needless to say - I didn't make it a priority. But... there is a YMCA 4.2 miles from my house. I wouldn't go. I would pack my stuff, and drive right on by the gym, convincing myself of SOME reason why I didn't want to go. I would drive home. On Thursday, I packed my gym bag, I drove to the gym, I went into the gym, AND I went to Zumba. All by myself. The panic was still there, but I talked myself through it. I had an internal conversation in my head. I did it. Yes, it's lame... but it was an achievement. What's better - I went again on Saturday. I actually enjoyed it!
Then today... I joined this book club online several months ago... like in December or something. Every single month, I had "some" excuse why I couldn't make it to the meeting. I've always bought the books, read them along with the group, but I refused to actually go to the meeting to discuss said book. Today - I went. I walked in to the restaurant, I introduced myself to a group of women (18 of them to be exact, I sat down, I had a wonderful discussion about a book, I laughed, I shared stores, and more than that - I HAD FUN! :-) I met women that I could actually imagine hanging out with on a regular basis. I met an author who will release her debut novel in September. I met a lawyer, a CPA, a historian, a librarian, a teacher, a realtor, a stay at home mom. I'm probably by far the youngest one there, but who cares?! I really enjoyed myself. I will be back for next month's book club meeting.
Maybe this is the start of a beautiful thing...
I have internal conversations with myself to overcome it. It's kind of ridiculous to be almost 30 years old and still struggle with it. I always feel better in numbers. I used to not be this way, but for whatever reason, lack of self confidence, self-esteem, etc. I've grown to be this way.
I'm only writing this post to share two things that I did this week that really were out of character for me.
Since moving to Fort Worth, I've wanted to get back into the gym, working out regularly, etc. I joined the YMCA in January with my brother's girlfriend, A. I went once. I had excuses. The gym she works out at is quite a drive from my house, and I hated getting up on Saturday mornings at 6 to be in an 8 am class. Needless to say - I didn't make it a priority. But... there is a YMCA 4.2 miles from my house. I wouldn't go. I would pack my stuff, and drive right on by the gym, convincing myself of SOME reason why I didn't want to go. I would drive home. On Thursday, I packed my gym bag, I drove to the gym, I went into the gym, AND I went to Zumba. All by myself. The panic was still there, but I talked myself through it. I had an internal conversation in my head. I did it. Yes, it's lame... but it was an achievement. What's better - I went again on Saturday. I actually enjoyed it!
Then today... I joined this book club online several months ago... like in December or something. Every single month, I had "some" excuse why I couldn't make it to the meeting. I've always bought the books, read them along with the group, but I refused to actually go to the meeting to discuss said book. Today - I went. I walked in to the restaurant, I introduced myself to a group of women (18 of them to be exact, I sat down, I had a wonderful discussion about a book, I laughed, I shared stores, and more than that - I HAD FUN! :-) I met women that I could actually imagine hanging out with on a regular basis. I met an author who will release her debut novel in September. I met a lawyer, a CPA, a historian, a librarian, a teacher, a realtor, a stay at home mom. I'm probably by far the youngest one there, but who cares?! I really enjoyed myself. I will be back for next month's book club meeting.
Maybe this is the start of a beautiful thing...
Friday, June 22, 2012
An update and a promise...
It's been a while since I posted. I admit it. It's tough to keep up with life, work, exercising, eating right, AND a blog. I mean - nothing in my life is really all that exciting. I get up each day, go to work, go to the gym, take a shower, eat dinner, watch a few minutes of television or read a book, then it's off to bed to do it all over again tomorrow. Exciting stuff, huh?!
I've recently made a promise to myself and to my friend, Carie, to begin more journaling of the things I'm dealing with emotionally, mentally, so that I can not only put them on paper, but maybe just maybe, get myself to where I can overcome some of the insecurities I've been facing.
I've also decided to do something a little unusual. Lindsey, a dear friend of mine, gave me the coolest Christmas gift. It's a jar, and each day you are supposed to pull out a slip of paper and answer the question on it. I thought it might be fun to put my answers on this blog, and then maybe even make a book out of the responses. I don't know, it's a thought.
Anyways - once again, I'm going to try to be better about updating. Wish me luck!
I've recently made a promise to myself and to my friend, Carie, to begin more journaling of the things I'm dealing with emotionally, mentally, so that I can not only put them on paper, but maybe just maybe, get myself to where I can overcome some of the insecurities I've been facing.
I've also decided to do something a little unusual. Lindsey, a dear friend of mine, gave me the coolest Christmas gift. It's a jar, and each day you are supposed to pull out a slip of paper and answer the question on it. I thought it might be fun to put my answers on this blog, and then maybe even make a book out of the responses. I don't know, it's a thought.
Anyways - once again, I'm going to try to be better about updating. Wish me luck!
Saturday, May 12, 2012
The start of a loooong journey...
Most people want to have children. It's not a secret. It's the only way the human race continues to exist. We reproduce. But what no one ever prepares you for is the chance that you might be one of the few that can't. For several years, I've struggled with the knowledge that I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) for short, and as I continue to get older, I realize that my dreams of having children may never happen. It sucks. Hard.
I'm struggling to come to terms with it, but you know what, really all I want to do is stomp my feet and scream how unfair it is. But that's not the hand God dealt me. I think what makes it harder for me to swallow is that on paper (blood work, etc.) I'm perfectly healthy and should have no problem whatsoever conceiving a child. In reality, that's not the case.
Part of my problem can be attributed to the weight gain, but then the weight gain could be attributed to the PCOS, so no one is really sure. Of course, losing weight with PCOS is tough. It's a constant cycle to eat right, exercise, don't do this, do that, and it becomes tiring after awhile. I know that if I ever want a chance of having a child, I don't have a choice. I have to focus on me and my health for awhile. I'm even being told by my doctor that it's possible once I lose the weight that I can ovulate on my own. If not, we try Clomid.
So here we go... someone be on my ass to make sure I'm eating right, going to the gym, walking/running/sprinting/whatever. I have 364 days (my 30th birthday) to get down at least 40 lbs. I really want this. Probably more than I've ever wanted anything before in my entire life. I want to be someone's mommy.
I've established my career, bought a house, have a husband, a dog, but even with all of those things, I still just feel like my little family isn't complete... and it may not ever be. But I'm really trying, very hard, to put my trust and faith in God, and know that whatever His will may be, I have to be okay with it.
I'm really trying... but I'm still going to do everything in my power to help make the dream a reality.
I'm struggling to come to terms with it, but you know what, really all I want to do is stomp my feet and scream how unfair it is. But that's not the hand God dealt me. I think what makes it harder for me to swallow is that on paper (blood work, etc.) I'm perfectly healthy and should have no problem whatsoever conceiving a child. In reality, that's not the case.
Part of my problem can be attributed to the weight gain, but then the weight gain could be attributed to the PCOS, so no one is really sure. Of course, losing weight with PCOS is tough. It's a constant cycle to eat right, exercise, don't do this, do that, and it becomes tiring after awhile. I know that if I ever want a chance of having a child, I don't have a choice. I have to focus on me and my health for awhile. I'm even being told by my doctor that it's possible once I lose the weight that I can ovulate on my own. If not, we try Clomid.
So here we go... someone be on my ass to make sure I'm eating right, going to the gym, walking/running/sprinting/whatever. I have 364 days (my 30th birthday) to get down at least 40 lbs. I really want this. Probably more than I've ever wanted anything before in my entire life. I want to be someone's mommy.
I've established my career, bought a house, have a husband, a dog, but even with all of those things, I still just feel like my little family isn't complete... and it may not ever be. But I'm really trying, very hard, to put my trust and faith in God, and know that whatever His will may be, I have to be okay with it.
I'm really trying... but I'm still going to do everything in my power to help make the dream a reality.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
One Little Word (2012 Edition)
Every
single year, I set out to pick a word that will describe my year, give me
motivation, drive to achieve something, and every single year, I fail. My word
doesn't seem to encompass the true meaning of what I hope to accomplish with
each new year. I admit, when I first starting thinking of a word for 2012, I
was stumped. I thought about "achieve" or "accomplish" or
something like that, but at the end of the day, I wanted something simple. You
know, like me! (Read more about picking one little word here.)
It wasn't until I was catching up on blogs via blogger, and I started reading shannondombkowski.com. (She's a fellow military wife, who is an amazing blogger! You should definitely follow her blog.) She has the most perfect word. DO.
So thanks to Shannon, DO has also become my "one little word."
I even thought to google the word do... and the images that popped up were kind of funny in an inspiring way.
It wasn't until I was catching up on blogs via blogger, and I started reading shannondombkowski.com. (She's a fellow military wife, who is an amazing blogger! You should definitely follow her blog.) She has the most perfect word. DO.
So thanks to Shannon, DO has also become my "one little word."
I even thought to google the word do... and the images that popped up were kind of funny in an inspiring way.
And
so here we go. DO.
Pinterest Party!
We all LOVE parties, right?! And we CLEARLY love pinterest or there would be millions of pins on there. We The Grahams had a fabulous idea to host a pinterest party! Um, score!
The idea is to create something you've pinned on pinterest. The deadline - January 15th. Who is in?!
Here are some of my ideas as to what I *may* make in this challenge.
A sunburst mirror a la Censational Girl.
Some candles for our outdoor patio.
Oh the possibilities are ENDLESS! Please say you'll join me!
Here are some of my ideas as to what I *may* make in this challenge.
A sunburst mirror a la Censational Girl.
Some new bows for my sweet niece.
Some candles for our outdoor patio.
Oh the possibilities are ENDLESS! Please say you'll join me!
Monday, January 2, 2012
So...
How is everyone doing so far? I realize we're only 2 days into 2012, but yeah, I just thought I'd ask. :o)
Marcus and I have spent today shopping... we're looking for bedding, a dining room set, a breakfast nook table, media room furniture, etc. I think we've FINALLY found bedding that we both like... but the duvet cover is $299! I don't know if we'll plug the trigger on it or not. I really love it, but I don't know if I love that price!
One of my goals for 2012 is to take 365 pictures. I hate that I don't take more pictures each year, so I'm going to attempt that. My thought(s) are to post the "weekly" collage of pictures on Saturday at some point. Let's see if I can keep up it.
I hope you are all rocking your goals so far in 2012.
XOX,
C
Marcus and I have spent today shopping... we're looking for bedding, a dining room set, a breakfast nook table, media room furniture, etc. I think we've FINALLY found bedding that we both like... but the duvet cover is $299! I don't know if we'll plug the trigger on it or not. I really love it, but I don't know if I love that price!
One of my goals for 2012 is to take 365 pictures. I hate that I don't take more pictures each year, so I'm going to attempt that. My thought(s) are to post the "weekly" collage of pictures on Saturday at some point. Let's see if I can keep up it.
I hope you are all rocking your goals so far in 2012.
XOX,
C
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Happy New Year
May your dreams be big. May your worries be light. May peace and love fill your life. May 2012 be all that you want it to be. Happy New Year!
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