I actually know exactly where my hairbrush is. It's on my bathroom counter. Broken.
*sigh*
I recognize that I can easily stop by Target today and buy a new hairbrush for likely less than five dollars even if I'm splurging on the fancy kind. But this is a prime example of how we take simple everyday things for granted.
You see it's not that it was a super special hairbrush or anything, I don't even remember when or where I got it, but I'm fairly certain that I've been using the same hairbrush for the better part of 10 years without fail. So when the head of said hairbrush decided to detach itself from the handle mid blow dry you can understand the brief moment of panic and despair that I felt when my good and faithful companion of more than a decade was rendered useless in my hands!
Now I'm sure you're sitting there thinking, Amy, get it together, it's an inanimate object to which you should have zero emotional attachment. You're probably also wondering why you read this inane blog where some woman is droning on and on about a broken hairbrush. Both are reasonable thoughts to be having at this point.
Long story short (too late) I somehow drew a connection this morning between my silly, broken hairbrush and all of the really important things in our lives like family and friends, and health and safety, that we take equally for granted each day. Somehow I have to believe that this was one of those God moments when He uses seemingly insignificant things to make a much more significant change in our hearts.
So I'll leave you with that thought and point you in the direction of Larry the Cucumber of Veggie Tales, who also knows what it's like to have an all-too-strong attachment to one's hairbrush (at least I actually HAVE hair).
90s Sunday School Kids Rejoice!
Monday, January 26, 2015
Monday, January 12, 2015
Traffic Lights and Tendus
Tonight I attended a Junior League meeting at the Center for People in Need in North Lincoln. We heard not only from the Center but also from the UNL Public Policy Center about the Lincoln Vital Signs Report which indicates that many parts of Lincoln have not yet recovered from the recession experienced in 2008. Most strikingly, we learned that on any given day in Lincoln 1,000 children are living below the poverty line.
As I was driving home I stopped at a stoplight at 27th and O Street like I have many other times. I happened to be at the front of the pack this time however and as I waited for the lights to cycle through, I was struck by something. Looking across O Street to the right, next to a store with its lights dimmed, a dozen or so children were following an instructor in a brightly lit room as he led them through a martial arts sequence. As I looked then to my left across the street, on the second floor of a neighboring building, little girls stretched and turned next to the barre in a ballet class.
As I watched the hi-yas and the arabesques (and meanwhile nearly missed my green light) it struck me that it was 8:30 at night and these children were still working hard at their respective passions and interests. It's children like these and still others that aren't fortunate enough to have the opportunity to pursue these passions that need our support and encouragement.
I don't know why the timing worked out tonight the way that it did, but I do know that I've never learned so much at a red light before. And as I went home to work on curriculum for our partnership with the Lighthouse after school program, I encountered a renewed sense of purpose in my task.
As I was driving home I stopped at a stoplight at 27th and O Street like I have many other times. I happened to be at the front of the pack this time however and as I waited for the lights to cycle through, I was struck by something. Looking across O Street to the right, next to a store with its lights dimmed, a dozen or so children were following an instructor in a brightly lit room as he led them through a martial arts sequence. As I looked then to my left across the street, on the second floor of a neighboring building, little girls stretched and turned next to the barre in a ballet class.
As I watched the hi-yas and the arabesques (and meanwhile nearly missed my green light) it struck me that it was 8:30 at night and these children were still working hard at their respective passions and interests. It's children like these and still others that aren't fortunate enough to have the opportunity to pursue these passions that need our support and encouragement.
I don't know why the timing worked out tonight the way that it did, but I do know that I've never learned so much at a red light before. And as I went home to work on curriculum for our partnership with the Lighthouse after school program, I encountered a renewed sense of purpose in my task.
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Be it Resolved
Well hello 2015!! What a fun little nugget of a year you will be!
Sometimes it seems strange to think that any one year could be much different from any other but then there are those years in our lives where big things happen and we will forever remember that year. - for better or worse. Sometimes we have no idea what kind of a year it will be, and other times we know from 12:01am on January 1st that it will be a grand year indeed!
2015 is the latter. Two of my best friends are getting married this summer so already that means big things for the next twelve months. Also in exactly 7 months and 15 days I will hit a rather large milestone in my earthly existence. But we're not going to talk about that just yet (let me ease into it will ya?)
So as it is tradition and I tend to be a somewhat traditional gal, resolutions need to be made for this epic year of 2015. And while an epic year might warrant epic resolutions I fear that those things that initially crossed my mind are nowhere near epic. In fact they are really quite simple. But perhaps it's the many simple things we do in our lives that add up to one epic year. Also I firmly believe there are no suitable synonyms for the word epic.
Resolution #1
Be Creative
This year I want to do my best to find a creative outlet for myself. My work is very analytical and data-heavy, and while I'm good at that, I'd like to think I also have a creative side that needs flexed now and again. So whether that is writing, blogging more (*ahem*), crafting, finally finishing the quilt I've been working on for a year, or throwing more parties, it's important that I engage that part of my brain on a regular basis this year.
Tactics: (Because I'm a strategy person and every goal needs tactics)
Stay tuned for bridal shower and bachelorette plans for the BFF and bestie and a little idea I'm throwing around for a Kentucky Derby fete. Oh and a super secret (a.k.a. I've already told more than five people) theme for that big b-day that is fast approaching.
Resolution #2
Eat Better
I know what you're thinking, yeah, yeah, everyone has this one. But I'm not just talking about eating healthier. In fact I don't mean that necessarily at all. I want to eat better as in I want to cook more and make frozen dinners and boxed meals less. If I'm going to eat the calories it should at least be something that I put together or followed a new recipe for. Yet another way to find my creative outlet too!
Tactics: Obviously - trying new recipes. Guinea pigs wanted for taste testing.
Resolution #3
Stay in Touch
I am notoriously bad at this one. Every year I say I'm going to call friends and family more and write more letters and notes and every year I fail miserably. I'm an introvert for certain so talking on the phone is not something I get too excited about even if it's with someone I know and love. But I'm keeping it on the list because small things like this could be just the ticket to really shaping up an epic 2015.
Tactics: Make at least one phone call just to catch up per week.
Resolution #4
Love myself first, so I can love others more
That might sound strange or maybe even a little self-serving but follow me on this one. One thing I've learned in 2014 is that no one else can love you for YOU if you don't love you for YOU. And I mean the you that God the Father created in His image, ever-flawed as we may be, you know the one that you never think is worthy or that you are constantly criticizing with the negative self talk. (Yes I'm somewhat talking to myself at this point). Stop it. I'm going to find ways to show love to myself whether that is going to the gym even when I don't feel like it, getting a pedicure on a random Tuesday, spending more time with my dog, or gosh darn it saying no to things when I'm already too busy or quite frankly, I just don't want to. Our mental and spiritual health is just as important as our physical health friends, if not even more!
Tactics: Evaluate all of the things I've committed myself to and see if there's anything that needs to go or where God is calling me in a different direction. Oh and get my behind to the gym - already making good progress here.
Resolution #5
Love Does.
I'll be honest. I only had four resolutions, however five just seems much more complete doesn't it? And then I remembered that I'm re-reading Bob Goff's Love Does and realized that if #4 is achievable then #5 should be an easy follow-up. Maybe not easy, but a natural progression. In 2015, amidst the busyness of everything else, I want to take the time to look beyond myself and find ways to pass that love I've found on to others. Whether that is friends, family, coworkers, or complete strangers in my community. Those opportunities are right in front of each of us every day.
Tactics: Practice makes perfect. Reach out whenever possible.
Before this starts sounding like a self-help book I'll draw it to a conclusion. I hope those of you who are making resolutions this year are excited to get after them and I'll be praying for you that you're successful and I hope you'll do the same for me. For those of you that don't make them - and by all means, you don't have to - I hope it's because you didn't wait for the first day of a new year to start living your life as God intended, constantly walking in His love and sharing it with others. My admiration for your gumption is never-ending - Heaven knows I needed the January 1st push to make these changes.
A very blessed (and epic) 2015 to all of you!
Sometimes it seems strange to think that any one year could be much different from any other but then there are those years in our lives where big things happen and we will forever remember that year. - for better or worse. Sometimes we have no idea what kind of a year it will be, and other times we know from 12:01am on January 1st that it will be a grand year indeed!
2015 is the latter. Two of my best friends are getting married this summer so already that means big things for the next twelve months. Also in exactly 7 months and 15 days I will hit a rather large milestone in my earthly existence. But we're not going to talk about that just yet (let me ease into it will ya?)
So as it is tradition and I tend to be a somewhat traditional gal, resolutions need to be made for this epic year of 2015. And while an epic year might warrant epic resolutions I fear that those things that initially crossed my mind are nowhere near epic. In fact they are really quite simple. But perhaps it's the many simple things we do in our lives that add up to one epic year. Also I firmly believe there are no suitable synonyms for the word epic.
Resolution #1
Be Creative
This year I want to do my best to find a creative outlet for myself. My work is very analytical and data-heavy, and while I'm good at that, I'd like to think I also have a creative side that needs flexed now and again. So whether that is writing, blogging more (*ahem*), crafting, finally finishing the quilt I've been working on for a year, or throwing more parties, it's important that I engage that part of my brain on a regular basis this year.Tactics: (Because I'm a strategy person and every goal needs tactics)
Stay tuned for bridal shower and bachelorette plans for the BFF and bestie and a little idea I'm throwing around for a Kentucky Derby fete. Oh and a super secret (a.k.a. I've already told more than five people) theme for that big b-day that is fast approaching.
Resolution #2
Eat Better
I know what you're thinking, yeah, yeah, everyone has this one. But I'm not just talking about eating healthier. In fact I don't mean that necessarily at all. I want to eat better as in I want to cook more and make frozen dinners and boxed meals less. If I'm going to eat the calories it should at least be something that I put together or followed a new recipe for. Yet another way to find my creative outlet too!
Tactics: Obviously - trying new recipes. Guinea pigs wanted for taste testing.
Resolution #3
Stay in Touch
I am notoriously bad at this one. Every year I say I'm going to call friends and family more and write more letters and notes and every year I fail miserably. I'm an introvert for certain so talking on the phone is not something I get too excited about even if it's with someone I know and love. But I'm keeping it on the list because small things like this could be just the ticket to really shaping up an epic 2015.
Tactics: Make at least one phone call just to catch up per week.
Resolution #4
Love myself first, so I can love others more
That might sound strange or maybe even a little self-serving but follow me on this one. One thing I've learned in 2014 is that no one else can love you for YOU if you don't love you for YOU. And I mean the you that God the Father created in His image, ever-flawed as we may be, you know the one that you never think is worthy or that you are constantly criticizing with the negative self talk. (Yes I'm somewhat talking to myself at this point). Stop it. I'm going to find ways to show love to myself whether that is going to the gym even when I don't feel like it, getting a pedicure on a random Tuesday, spending more time with my dog, or gosh darn it saying no to things when I'm already too busy or quite frankly, I just don't want to. Our mental and spiritual health is just as important as our physical health friends, if not even more!Tactics: Evaluate all of the things I've committed myself to and see if there's anything that needs to go or where God is calling me in a different direction. Oh and get my behind to the gym - already making good progress here.
Resolution #5
Love Does.
I'll be honest. I only had four resolutions, however five just seems much more complete doesn't it? And then I remembered that I'm re-reading Bob Goff's Love Does and realized that if #4 is achievable then #5 should be an easy follow-up. Maybe not easy, but a natural progression. In 2015, amidst the busyness of everything else, I want to take the time to look beyond myself and find ways to pass that love I've found on to others. Whether that is friends, family, coworkers, or complete strangers in my community. Those opportunities are right in front of each of us every day.
Tactics: Practice makes perfect. Reach out whenever possible.
Before this starts sounding like a self-help book I'll draw it to a conclusion. I hope those of you who are making resolutions this year are excited to get after them and I'll be praying for you that you're successful and I hope you'll do the same for me. For those of you that don't make them - and by all means, you don't have to - I hope it's because you didn't wait for the first day of a new year to start living your life as God intended, constantly walking in His love and sharing it with others. My admiration for your gumption is never-ending - Heaven knows I needed the January 1st push to make these changes.
A very blessed (and epic) 2015 to all of you!
Monday, February 3, 2014
Home.Sweet.Home
Hello readers!
(Let's be honest - Hi Mom and a handful of really bored people!)
So if you haven't heard, I bought a house! Just about 10 days ago, I signed my name a couple dozen times and received the keys to my very own home. I still have a hard time believing it and may have turned down the wrong street to go home to my apartment a time or two. It truly is a surreal experience but one that I am really enjoying. I'm sure it will add to the hijinx I can share here on the blog as I will be the first to admit that there will numerous occasions that I will have no idea what I'm doing with this homeowner thing.
So in honor of the 10 days that I have been a homeowner, I thought I would share the Top Ten things that I have learned so far as a new homeowner.
1) House neighbors are about as awesome as apartment neighbors are terrible. The couple next door baked me cookies, the neighbor lady on the other side cleared my sidewalk the first day it snowed (more on that later) and thanks to social media I found out that an old friend from college lives three houses down on the same street with her husband and new baby. God is good, let me tell you.
2) Speaking of social media, holy cow, I mean I know "life events" get a lot of Likes but I never knew that a picture of a key could garner so much interest. And it was posting a picture of myself in front of the new digs that sparked the above mentioned old friend/neighbor to message me and ask if it happened to be the house on her street that was just for sale! Say what you want about Facebook, but that was cool.
3) Speaking of awesome people, I have awesome friends. Just like top notch (I knew this already but hear me out). Between saving boxes and packing material to helping me move or paint or just entertaining me while I was packing or brining food by after I moved in. I have the greatest bunch of friends and coworkers anyone could ever ask for and don't even get me started in how much work my mother put in helping me move in and get my house ready! This girl is blessed for certain.
4) Movers are not always right. Like when they tell you that your old couch won't fit down the stairs at your new house. False. When you have good family friends who are willing to lend a hand, the know-how to take the railing off and bring the couch in the sliding door, you can pretty much do anything! So there, movers.
5) Target is even more dangerous as a homeowner. So very tempting all the time.
6) Sometimes a light switch will do nothing, sometimes it will not make any sense why it is all the way across the room, and sometimes the light switch will control the only outlet in the room. Even if that room is the bathroom.
7) Scooping snow is a great workout, even if it's just two inches of light and fluffy stuff. And while it seems fun, talk to me after tomorrow when we're supposedly getting up to 8 inches of snow while I'm at work…..
8) Being in possession of a fenced-in backyard makes you an excellent candidate for dog sitting, not to mention everyone will think you need to immediately get a dog of your own. Baby steps friends, baby steps.
9) As a new homeowner you will get way excited about weird things, like putting your garbage at the curb for the first time, or looking at paint samples, or shopping for rugs, or just having a doorbell. A DOORBELL!!!
10) Change. Change becomes the word of the day, week, year! Besides the obvious huge change of owning a home, things are constantly changing. Home chores become important, where you want to put things changes everyday, and your perspective on money and time and so many other things changes. But oh my goodness is it exciting!
So there you have it! 10 things I've learned, but I'm sure there will be many, MANY more lessons to follow! Stay tuned! Until then, I can't wait to see how God uses this blessing of a roof over my head to reach others. I can't wait to welcome friends and family into my home and fill it with love and joy!
(Let's be honest - Hi Mom and a handful of really bored people!)
So if you haven't heard, I bought a house! Just about 10 days ago, I signed my name a couple dozen times and received the keys to my very own home. I still have a hard time believing it and may have turned down the wrong street to go home to my apartment a time or two. It truly is a surreal experience but one that I am really enjoying. I'm sure it will add to the hijinx I can share here on the blog as I will be the first to admit that there will numerous occasions that I will have no idea what I'm doing with this homeowner thing.
So in honor of the 10 days that I have been a homeowner, I thought I would share the Top Ten things that I have learned so far as a new homeowner.
1) House neighbors are about as awesome as apartment neighbors are terrible. The couple next door baked me cookies, the neighbor lady on the other side cleared my sidewalk the first day it snowed (more on that later) and thanks to social media I found out that an old friend from college lives three houses down on the same street with her husband and new baby. God is good, let me tell you.
2) Speaking of social media, holy cow, I mean I know "life events" get a lot of Likes but I never knew that a picture of a key could garner so much interest. And it was posting a picture of myself in front of the new digs that sparked the above mentioned old friend/neighbor to message me and ask if it happened to be the house on her street that was just for sale! Say what you want about Facebook, but that was cool.
3) Speaking of awesome people, I have awesome friends. Just like top notch (I knew this already but hear me out). Between saving boxes and packing material to helping me move or paint or just entertaining me while I was packing or brining food by after I moved in. I have the greatest bunch of friends and coworkers anyone could ever ask for and don't even get me started in how much work my mother put in helping me move in and get my house ready! This girl is blessed for certain.
4) Movers are not always right. Like when they tell you that your old couch won't fit down the stairs at your new house. False. When you have good family friends who are willing to lend a hand, the know-how to take the railing off and bring the couch in the sliding door, you can pretty much do anything! So there, movers.
5) Target is even more dangerous as a homeowner. So very tempting all the time.
6) Sometimes a light switch will do nothing, sometimes it will not make any sense why it is all the way across the room, and sometimes the light switch will control the only outlet in the room. Even if that room is the bathroom.
7) Scooping snow is a great workout, even if it's just two inches of light and fluffy stuff. And while it seems fun, talk to me after tomorrow when we're supposedly getting up to 8 inches of snow while I'm at work…..
8) Being in possession of a fenced-in backyard makes you an excellent candidate for dog sitting, not to mention everyone will think you need to immediately get a dog of your own. Baby steps friends, baby steps.
9) As a new homeowner you will get way excited about weird things, like putting your garbage at the curb for the first time, or looking at paint samples, or shopping for rugs, or just having a doorbell. A DOORBELL!!!
10) Change. Change becomes the word of the day, week, year! Besides the obvious huge change of owning a home, things are constantly changing. Home chores become important, where you want to put things changes everyday, and your perspective on money and time and so many other things changes. But oh my goodness is it exciting!
So there you have it! 10 things I've learned, but I'm sure there will be many, MANY more lessons to follow! Stay tuned! Until then, I can't wait to see how God uses this blessing of a roof over my head to reach others. I can't wait to welcome friends and family into my home and fill it with love and joy!
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Let every heart, prepare Him room...
December 11th and a very happy birthday to my sweet little nephew who is turning TWO today!
I'm sure all of you are preparing for the holidays just like me and everyone else we know...
It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season - I am just as guilty - with so much going on it's hard to even fit everything in! I've heard that from so many more people this year too - perhaps because Thanksgiving fell so late in November. Everyone seems just that much more in a rush to finish their shopping and plan their parties and send out Christmas cards, and get the decorations up.
Maybe that's why I have found myself meditating more lately on the line from 'Joy to the World' that titles this post:
Prepare - we certainly spend the month of December preparing for this, that, and the other thing don't we? I could go on and on about how much I prepare for, well, everything in my life (we'll address my OCD planning issues later...) and the Christmas season is no different.
As I really reflect on that verse however, I find myself a little convicted. I mean on one hand, I'm TOTALLY prepared - my shopping is done, gifts are ready to be wrapped and shipped, my cards are in the mail, my decorations have been up since the weekend after Thanksgiving. I'm FULLY prepared for the holiday season aren't I?
On the other hand, have I really prepared my heart, prepared room in it for Him, for the newborn Savior? After all, that's what the Advent season is all about. A somber time for reflection and preparation for the coming of the King. Somber....yeah...I think we can all admit this time of year tends to be anything but somber.
So Christmas is just two weeks away, and tonight as I sat in my church's Wednesday night Advent service, I listened to our pastor talk about Zechariah and how he was dwelling in God and His Word even as his wife Elizabeth was pregnant and subsequently gave birth to a child that she was never supposed to be able to have. Despite the momentous things around him, despite all the hustle and bustle, he found his quiet place and time to give glory to God and to really tune into what God's purpose was for him and for this new child who would soon be known as John the Baptist, and for all of the other things happening around him.
What a beautiful lesson for all of us as we countdown the next 14 days! How can we prepare Him room? How can we dwell in the true meaning of the blessings He has given and what He means for us to do with them to serve others? I hope to focus more on this idea in the next two weeks and I hope you will find a quiet place and time do so with me!
I'm sure all of you are preparing for the holidays just like me and everyone else we know...
Checking the lights...
Finding the perfect gifts....
and eating way more food at every holiday party, cookie exchange, and potluck than should even be humanly acceptable.
It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season - I am just as guilty - with so much going on it's hard to even fit everything in! I've heard that from so many more people this year too - perhaps because Thanksgiving fell so late in November. Everyone seems just that much more in a rush to finish their shopping and plan their parties and send out Christmas cards, and get the decorations up.
Maybe that's why I have found myself meditating more lately on the line from 'Joy to the World' that titles this post:
"Let every heart, prepare Him room..."
Prepare - we certainly spend the month of December preparing for this, that, and the other thing don't we? I could go on and on about how much I prepare for, well, everything in my life (we'll address my OCD planning issues later...) and the Christmas season is no different.
As I really reflect on that verse however, I find myself a little convicted. I mean on one hand, I'm TOTALLY prepared - my shopping is done, gifts are ready to be wrapped and shipped, my cards are in the mail, my decorations have been up since the weekend after Thanksgiving. I'm FULLY prepared for the holiday season aren't I?
On the other hand, have I really prepared my heart, prepared room in it for Him, for the newborn Savior? After all, that's what the Advent season is all about. A somber time for reflection and preparation for the coming of the King. Somber....yeah...I think we can all admit this time of year tends to be anything but somber.
So Christmas is just two weeks away, and tonight as I sat in my church's Wednesday night Advent service, I listened to our pastor talk about Zechariah and how he was dwelling in God and His Word even as his wife Elizabeth was pregnant and subsequently gave birth to a child that she was never supposed to be able to have. Despite the momentous things around him, despite all the hustle and bustle, he found his quiet place and time to give glory to God and to really tune into what God's purpose was for him and for this new child who would soon be known as John the Baptist, and for all of the other things happening around him.
What a beautiful lesson for all of us as we countdown the next 14 days! How can we prepare Him room? How can we dwell in the true meaning of the blessings He has given and what He means for us to do with them to serve others? I hope to focus more on this idea in the next two weeks and I hope you will find a quiet place and time do so with me!
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
November Unraveled
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| via Pinterest |
Even though I definitely struggled through the month of October, and didn't follow every rule as it should be, there are several things that I've picked up on that I think will continue even though I was a little unraveled in November.
- Whole Wheat Pasta - I used to hate this pasta, I thought it was grainy and had to cook way longer and just didn't taste the same. There definitely is a different taste to it but I've found actually the best brand as far as comparability to regular pasta is Hy-Vee's whole wheat pastas! They are quite good. I really enjoyed using whole wheat spaghetti in my favorite baked spaghetti recipe. It made it seem that much more hearty and filling.
- Healthy snacking - while an occasional cookie or scotcheroo from the cafe at work may find it's way to my desk, I have gotten a lot better about healthy snacking, especially unprocessed things like carrots, apples, hummus, etc.
- Grocery shopping - As I said before, this was so eye-opening. I've found some new products that i love and will continue to seek out, and I've learned that when you're eating all of these fresh things, you really can't go two weeks without going to the grocery store. You have to maintain a balanced pantry and be willing to stop by the store for what fresh ingredients you might need.
All in all it was a good experience, even if I didn't follow it as closely as I had intended. I hope my friends who tried it had a pleasant experience with it and have learned a thing or two they can put into daily practice.
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| via Pinterest |
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Supermarket Sweep
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| Image via Google |
That's kind of how it felt yesterday when I went to the grocery store for my first unprocessed grocery buying experience. Not that I was in a hurry (and good thing, it took me forever!) but that I found myself carefully inspecting anything that came in a box or container to make sure it indeed qualified as unprocessed.
How can you be sure it's unprocessed? Some things are easy - fruits, veggies - obviously unprocessed. So does that mean everything that is packaged is processed? Well Andrew over at Eating Rules, who created October Unprocessed, uses the kitchen test for these items. If a reasonable person (like yourself) could reasonably create the product in their own home given they had the ingredients, then yes, it passes and is considered unprocessed. A good rule of thumb is - if you can't pronounce it, it shouldn't be going in your body.
I started my trip at Trader Joe's to get a few things that I knew they had that Hy-Vee wouldn't have. For instance, Trader Joe's homemade 100% Whole Wheat Tortillas. Made fresh and from what I've heard, are delicious! I'm going to try to use them in my favorite Sour Cream White Chicken Enchilada recipe. Speaking of which - sour cream. Soooo processed - but delicious. Argh. BUT never fear because TJ's again doesn't let us down and has a Simply Sour Cream product that doesn't have any artificial flavors, ingredients, or stabilizers. Just sour cream. Of course, one could argue that sour cream HAS to be pasteurized so therefore is processed, but we're not aiming for perfection here friends, the name of the game is awareness. Side note: I did pick up one "cheat item" at Trader Joe's - Cookie Butter. Yum. But definitely processed. It is however somewhat more natural than most store bought peanut butters by looking at the ingredients (potential bias). What can I say, we all have our vices - at least it's not ice cream (more on that later)?! I picked up a few other things at TJ's including some yummy pumpkin spice coffee without artificial flavors and got out of there only spending around $24.00.
My next stop was Hy-Vee. I love Hy-Vee I do, I really really do. Add to that the Fuel Saver card and life is good. But I digress. At Hy-Vee I purchased all of my produce which proved to be the fastest and easiest part of the errand. Lots of fruit for breakfast and snacks and veggies which I made into the Southwestern Chopped Salad that I mentioned in an earlier post (review to come - it's for lunch today!). Once that was done my focus was on snacks, and trying to take two of my favorite recipes and turn them into unprocessed recipes. I did a lot of reading, and most of the time I was pleasantly surprised by how natural some things are. I struggled though when it came to finding the green chiles for my Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas. Who knew one little tiny can could be so complicated! But pretty much every can contained a little thing called calcium chloride (here used as a preservative - also used to melt ice on roadways...not kidding). So after examining EVERY can of green chiles that Hy-Vee had to offer I finally just picked one that didn't have any other weird preservatives in it and chalked it up to it being a very teeny sacrifice. It also contains citric acid, but as others on this challenge have pointed out to me, you CAN actually by that powdered for canning and whatnot so technically it passes the kitchen test. Fair enough.
In the end I spent about $75 at Hy-Vee and walked away with at least a couple weeks of meals and snacks for a grand total of $100. Not bad. I did learn however that it is hard to buy in advance since you are using so many fresh ingredients! Hence why the chopped salad was prepared immediately!
So there you have it, my first unprocessed grocery experience. I know some of you may be asking - but how is it going otherwise? I have to say - not too shabby! I've managed to stay on track, even with going out for lunch with a coworker once and having to carefully pick what I would order. I'm ecstatic to have pumpkin spice coffee that is unprocessed (I've been substituting my favorite Stash Double Bergamot Earl Grey Tea for the last two days). And I've been feeling really good! I don't have the sugar highs and lows that I had before when I would snack on candy or grab a cookie after lunch, which is awesome. The only tough times have been walking through the lobby at work and smelling the cookies baking at the cafe and hearing my friends talk about eating ice cream. Oh how I miss ice cream. I do want to do some investigating and see if there are any unprocessed type ice creams out there. But at least for October I'm going to leave well enough alone and try and kick that habit. Not that I am going to try and never eat ice cream again - because we all know that without ice cream there would be darkness and chaos. And we just can't have that.
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| Image via Pinterest/Etsy |
Happies of the Week (because I forgot these the other day):
FaceTime with my new nephew (with some help from his mom & dad)
Honeycrisp apples (with or without cookie butter)
More energy = more productivity at work and home
Monday, September 30, 2013
October Unprocessed
Well hello! And happy Fall to all of you!
There have been so many things going on lately that I find it hard to believe that tomorrow is October! How did that happen? The collegiate chapter of my sorority that I advise is back in full swing at UNL, work continues to be busy and provide new challenges each and every day, I have a new nephew (YAY!), I'm still running a lot......um.....er.....well......
There have been so many things going on lately that I find it hard to believe that tomorrow is October! How did that happen? The collegiate chapter of my sorority that I advise is back in full swing at UNL, work continues to be busy and provide new challenges each and every day, I have a new nephew (YAY!), I'm still running a lot......um.....er.....well......
via Pinterest
Okay so I haven't been running all that much. I ran the Lincoln Half for the second time this year and the same thing happened that I went through last year. Train, train, train, half marathon and then.....nothing. I lose a lot of motivation in the summer and our lovely Nebraska heat and humidity doesn't help matters. This was brought to my attention a couple weeks ago when I attempted to run a 10K and it just went poorly. I still had fun - don't get me wrong - and a week later I ran a 5K where I set a PR for that race, but I found myself left with some disappointment that I hadn't stayed in shape and in good running condition.
So after hearing a friend talk about a new food challenge she was going to take on, I became curious and read through the material she had posted on her Facebook page. The challenge? Eat nothing but unprocessed foods for the month of October. The October Unprocessed 2013 Challenge asks you to look at your food differently. Not necessarily cut out specific things or eat fewer calories or whatnot, it's not that type of diet, but instead to make better choices about the food you are putting in your body and getting rid of the chemicals and additives that are so prevalent in our processed foods. It's a return to eating natural, lots of fruits and veggies, whole grains, and protein.
What is great about this challenge is that it allows you to make it work for you and your family (or you know, just you and whatever friends will eat your unprocessed cooking). If there is something you need to make an exception for - that's okay - but they stress that it's important to make these exceptions at the start - and not in the middle just because you REALLY want to eat something. For example, they mentioned a woman who was training for a marathon and allowed herself to have sports drinks and gels (pretty well processed no matter what brand you try) because it was necessary for her training. For me, I will make an exception when I have to eat dinner at the house on Monday nights. Not because they use a lot of processed ingredients, but because I know I don't have a lot of control over which parts of that are processed and which aren't. And I will make an exception for Starbucks if for no other reason than I have to maintain my Gold status (in my defense, coffee is unprocessed - lattes and Caramel Apple Spice - not so much).
I've started to look for recipes but I've found that there aren't a lot of "unprocessed" recipes out there and for good reason. You can find a way to convert almost any recipe to use unprocessed ingredients so I'm eager to try some of my favorites in a healthier way! One recipe I'm really excited to make for my lunches this month is this Southwest Chopped Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing.
Along the way I hope to keep you posted on recipes, struggles, and triumphs. I know it won't be perfect, but my goal is to at the very least eliminate the blatantly processed foods like boxed or frozen dinners, sweets, and other overly preserved foods. And if you're feeling adventurous - I invite you to join me in this challenge!
via Pinterest
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Oh what a beautiful morning
This is going to be a quick post but I just had to share what a beautiful morning it is in Lincoln today. I started my day with a run around Holmes Lake, a couple errands, and enjoying my favorite coffee drink on the deck. I highly recommend the Iced Vanilla Toddy from The Mill in College View or the Haymarket. It's like an iced latte except the espresso is cold brewed so it's not bitter. Great way to start this beautiful Saturday! Pool time later with the girls so I'm sure I'll be sharing my favorite summer pool drink recipe in the near future!
Saturday, May 25, 2013
How does your garden grow?
I finally got over to Campbell's Nursery and Garden Center here in Lincoln to pick up flowers and plants to arrange in my one little pot that I've had for the last two years. I don't have much of a green thumb naturally but I seem to be able to handle a few flowers in a pot as long as I remember to water them. Two years ago at my old apartment I took a shortcut and bought a pot that had been put together at the nursery. I opted for a partial shade variety which turned out to be the wrong choice. Where the pot was placed on my front stoop encountered too much sun and those plants did not fair well that summer. The next year I was smarter and bought drought tolerant, full sun plants and flowers to fill the container. Unfortunately with our extreme drought conditions and my aforementioned, underdeveloped green thumb, those plants quickly succumbed to the scorching heat.
Now that I've moved to a new place, my planter is out on my small, covered balcony which is mostly full shade throughout the day but with some peeks of sunlight. So this year I wanted to attempt to replicate that original partial shade variety pot that I had originally purchased. Luckily I had taken photographs and kept tags so I knew for the most part what I needed to buy. Here's what I found at Campbell's to build my lovely container garden.
Now that I've moved to a new place, my planter is out on my small, covered balcony which is mostly full shade throughout the day but with some peeks of sunlight. So this year I wanted to attempt to replicate that original partial shade variety pot that I had originally purchased. Luckily I had taken photographs and kept tags so I knew for the most part what I needed to buy. Here's what I found at Campbell's to build my lovely container garden.
Begonias are great shade flowers and I think they are just plain cute so I chose three different varieties for my planter this year. The top two will be a little taller and fuller whereas the white variety are a bit smaller.
This Lobelia will spread out and hang over the top of the planter and fill in the gaps nicely. I had hoped to purchase the bright blue variety but sadly they were sold out already. The purple will be a nice change though.
Finally, the centerpiece of this project, the Alocasia that I was so happy to have found! This plant grew so nicely that first year and the wide, vibrant leaves gave the planter a nice tropical feel.
The final product! I'm quite happy with it and hope that it will flourish on my little balcony.
So there you have it! My little flora and fauna oasis in one little flower pot! As a side note, all of these photos were edited with PicMonkey - a FREE photo editing site with lots of options as well as the little banners, text and other scrapbook-like additions.
Happies of the Day:
Begonias...just the word makes me happy.
A weekend full of relaxing.
Dirty gardening gloves.
Friday, May 24, 2013
Sincerely, Dorothy
Once in a while, a person comes into your life through certain circumstances that you didn't plan for and that you didn't expect but in the end, perhaps that is the greatest gift. Nearly two years ago I was lucky enough to meet someone like this through a mutual friend and I am so thankful that I did. Although we don't know each other as well as we could or as much as I know others (despite deep conversations over delectable spaghetti squash), I can tell you that Melissa is one remarkable individual. Over the last two years she has (probably without knowing it) inspired me to be more creative, to embrace what is right in front of me, and without a doubt to have a fonder appreciation for all things musical (especially Jamie Cullum). Not to mention this woman has a heart for the Lord and finds ways to serve him that you and I would likely never consider.
So, when she teamed up with her sister Crystal to create music and perform under the name Dear Herman, I was so excited for her! In the time I've known her, Melissa has always had a song in her heart and a lyric on the tip of her tongue so when I heard about this project I was not surprised. However, when I watched the video I'm about to share with you, and listened to Crystal describe this new endeavor and heard both of them perform just a small piece of it, I was moved even further. So much so that I knew I had to support this project not only in my hope and prayer for its success but also financially, even if my contribution was small.
I don't want to dive too much into the project itself here because Crystal describes it so much more passionately and vividly in the video. But I will tell you this. Sincerely, Dorothy is a project unlike anything I have ever heard of and far from what many might dream up, but it is a story that truly must be told. I hope you will at least watch the three minute video to catch a glimpse of what could be and if you are as moved as I was, I hope you will consider contributing to the production of this project through Kickstarter, an online community for backing creative projects. Dear Herman has just 6 days left to reach a $6,000 goal otherwise all funding already pledged by backers is returned.
Melissa and Crystal both reside in Lincoln, so if you have always wanted to support local artists, here's your chance! I realize that not everyone will be able to become a backer, but at the very least if you believe in the story they want to tell, please share this video and the link to their Kickstarter page with others!
You can find the video and Kickstarter page here. (Did you click on it yet? Because you should!)
So, when she teamed up with her sister Crystal to create music and perform under the name Dear Herman, I was so excited for her! In the time I've known her, Melissa has always had a song in her heart and a lyric on the tip of her tongue so when I heard about this project I was not surprised. However, when I watched the video I'm about to share with you, and listened to Crystal describe this new endeavor and heard both of them perform just a small piece of it, I was moved even further. So much so that I knew I had to support this project not only in my hope and prayer for its success but also financially, even if my contribution was small.
I don't want to dive too much into the project itself here because Crystal describes it so much more passionately and vividly in the video. But I will tell you this. Sincerely, Dorothy is a project unlike anything I have ever heard of and far from what many might dream up, but it is a story that truly must be told. I hope you will at least watch the three minute video to catch a glimpse of what could be and if you are as moved as I was, I hope you will consider contributing to the production of this project through Kickstarter, an online community for backing creative projects. Dear Herman has just 6 days left to reach a $6,000 goal otherwise all funding already pledged by backers is returned.
Melissa and Crystal both reside in Lincoln, so if you have always wanted to support local artists, here's your chance! I realize that not everyone will be able to become a backer, but at the very least if you believe in the story they want to tell, please share this video and the link to their Kickstarter page with others!
You can find the video and Kickstarter page here. (Did you click on it yet? Because you should!)
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Give to Lincoln Day 2013
Give to Lincoln Day 2013 is today! If you are resident of Lincoln and even if you're not, check out the list of organizations you can support! Donations will be matched with a proportional share of a $200,000 challenge match pool of funds from the Lincoln Community Foundation! We have so many worthy causes in our community it almost makes it difficult to choose. I find at times like these that you have to follow your heart and truly remember that simply put: Love Does!
2 Corinthians 9:7 "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
2 Corinthians 9:7 "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Love Does
I've never written a book review on the blog before but if ever there was a place to start it is with the book "Love Does" by Bob Goff. The style of writing is hard to describe. Basically each chapter is a short story that Bob tells using experiences that he has encountered throughout his life. In addition to being the best-selling author of Love Does, Bob is also an attorney and founder of Restore International, a nonprofit human rights organization operating in Uganda and India.
The premise of this collection of experiences is to demonstrate that loving others as He first loved us does not mean just saying the words and thinking the thoughts but that Love DOES. It is action, it is actively pursuing opportunities to love others. Like the picture I found above with a quote from Bob, it's giving away love and grace like you're made of the stuff.
This was truly an inspiring book and I don't think I'm doing it justice in this description. Please check it out. Even if you are unsure of where you are in your faith journey, this book will move you in ways that you wouldn't believe.
Today I discovered he is also hosting a conference this week in Tacoma, WA called Love Does Stuff which will including many presenters and even some musical performances. Among them being the Kid President! So wish I could be there and hope it becomes an annual event! Maybe next year.
Here are some of my favorite quotes from Love Does!
“But the kind of love that God created and demonstrated is a costly one because it involves sacrifice and presence. It's a love that operates more like a sign language than being spoken outright.”
“Grace works that way. It's a kind word from a gentle person with an impossible prayer. It's a force sometimes transmitted best hand to hand in a dark place.”
“...we need to stop plotting the course and instead just land the plane on our plans to make a difference by getting to the "do" part of faith.”
“Simply put: love does.”
-Bob Goff
Thursday, May 9, 2013
For whom the phone rings
My workplace is rather large, with many, many, MANY phone numbers, as is typical of any large health system. Add on to that the number of fax numbers we also have and I can't even begin to imagine how many numbers that might sum up to.
Over the last two years however my coworkers and I have found few things more amusing than the abuse my particular direct extension takes. I was reminded by one of my friends in my former department that I was given the option of changing extensions when I switched departments and I'm beginning to wonder if that would have been the wise choice. However if I had, I would not be able to delight you with these random musings here on the blog. And I'm sure after reading this you'll be quite glad that I didn't.
Let's start with the fact that my number must be very close to a frequently used fax machine extension. Periodically my phone will ring and the caller ID will flash a few numbers and the word FAX. When I see this delightful little notice on the screen I know that the next 15-20 minutes will go something like this:
Ring Ring!
*picks up*
SCREEE....SCREEE...beep...beep....beep
*hangs up*
....5 minutes later....
Ring Ring!
*picks up*
SCREEE....SCREEE...beep...beep....beep
*hangs up*
....5 minutes later....
Ring Ring!
*picks up*
...not even waiting for the SCREE this time (and therefore probably seeming quite rude to my new coworkers who can hear me hanging up each time)
*hangs up*
....5 minutes later....
Ring Ring!
*picks up*
*slams receiver down in annoyance*
And so on and so forth because you know that little fax machine has to attempt to send at least 3-5 times. Lovely.
Now that is manageable, don't get me wrong, people type in numbers wrong, no harm done, they'll see it has failed and (most of the time) correct the number and move on.
But what really amuses me (and I'll admit, sometimes concerns me) is the fact that my extension also happens to be one digit different than our Emergency Department's direct extension that they sometimes give to people asking them to return calls, etc. So it happens on occasion that I will walk into work early in the morning and see my voicemail light blinking only to retrieve my messages and hear something that goes like this (disclaimer: all voicemails have been fictionalized):
11:52pm
"Hello I'm looking for my sister, I was told she was brought in and I need to know where to come pick her up."
2:32am
"I was there earlier this evening and was asked to call back if anything changes with my [insert specified wound/injury here]. There seems to be some oozing."
Not even kidding.
Don't misunderstand, I realize people dial wrong numbers, it happens and perhaps in all of the times I've received voicemails like this, the person is in some sort of distress, is exhausted or overwhelmed. However, I find it somewhat odd that so many people continue to leave a voicemail after my outgoing greeting declares "Hi, you've reached Amy Myers, Market Analyst at such and such....blah blah blah"
Call me crazy but I don't think in the event of an emergency we're going to ask you to call our Market Analyst right away so it stands to reason you might have the wrong number at that point.
But alas, I'm left to often wonder for whom the phone rings....
Taking a cue from my friend Kensy over at The Scoop from the Coop I'm going to try and end each post with my favorite things from the day. Or for my Dinner Club friends who might be reading my "Happies."
Over the last two years however my coworkers and I have found few things more amusing than the abuse my particular direct extension takes. I was reminded by one of my friends in my former department that I was given the option of changing extensions when I switched departments and I'm beginning to wonder if that would have been the wise choice. However if I had, I would not be able to delight you with these random musings here on the blog. And I'm sure after reading this you'll be quite glad that I didn't.
Let's start with the fact that my number must be very close to a frequently used fax machine extension. Periodically my phone will ring and the caller ID will flash a few numbers and the word FAX. When I see this delightful little notice on the screen I know that the next 15-20 minutes will go something like this:
Ring Ring!
*picks up*
SCREEE....SCREEE...beep...beep....beep
*hangs up*
....5 minutes later....
Ring Ring!
*picks up*
SCREEE....SCREEE...beep...beep....beep
*hangs up*
....5 minutes later....
Ring Ring!
*picks up*
...not even waiting for the SCREE this time (and therefore probably seeming quite rude to my new coworkers who can hear me hanging up each time)
*hangs up*
....5 minutes later....
Ring Ring!
*picks up*
*slams receiver down in annoyance*
And so on and so forth because you know that little fax machine has to attempt to send at least 3-5 times. Lovely.
Now that is manageable, don't get me wrong, people type in numbers wrong, no harm done, they'll see it has failed and (most of the time) correct the number and move on.
But what really amuses me (and I'll admit, sometimes concerns me) is the fact that my extension also happens to be one digit different than our Emergency Department's direct extension that they sometimes give to people asking them to return calls, etc. So it happens on occasion that I will walk into work early in the morning and see my voicemail light blinking only to retrieve my messages and hear something that goes like this (disclaimer: all voicemails have been fictionalized):
11:52pm
"Hello I'm looking for my sister, I was told she was brought in and I need to know where to come pick her up."
2:32am
"I was there earlier this evening and was asked to call back if anything changes with my [insert specified wound/injury here]. There seems to be some oozing."
Not even kidding.
Don't misunderstand, I realize people dial wrong numbers, it happens and perhaps in all of the times I've received voicemails like this, the person is in some sort of distress, is exhausted or overwhelmed. However, I find it somewhat odd that so many people continue to leave a voicemail after my outgoing greeting declares "Hi, you've reached Amy Myers, Market Analyst at such and such....blah blah blah"
Call me crazy but I don't think in the event of an emergency we're going to ask you to call our Market Analyst right away so it stands to reason you might have the wrong number at that point.
But alas, I'm left to often wonder for whom the phone rings....
Taking a cue from my friend Kensy over at The Scoop from the Coop I'm going to try and end each post with my favorite things from the day. Or for my Dinner Club friends who might be reading my "Happies."
Today's Happies
Dinner with my beautiful cousin and Baby Fountain
Blogging on the deck and listening to the bells at St. Peter's
Talking with my VP about new and exciting work projects!
My awesome new bronze shell wind chime from Pier 1 for my porch.
Blogging on the deck and listening to the bells at St. Peter's
Talking with my VP about new and exciting work projects!
My awesome new bronze shell wind chime from Pier 1 for my porch.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Begin Again
I've had a blog for a while now - since moving to Aberdeen, SD in 2010 actually. And I'll be perfectly honest and admit I haven't always kept up with it like I had intended. Now however, so many of my friends are blogging away and not just occasionally but DAILY! That has lit a fire under me for sure (competitive much?) so expect to be hearing more from me from now on.
I titled this post Begin Again not only because I'm blogging for the first time in several months (and love that T. Swift song), but because in many ways I feel like that's where I am in my life right now. I'm not starting over completely from scratch, but simply beginning again where I left off in many ways. Many things have changed. My job is in a new department now and I LOVE IT, my personal life has changed tremendously in the last few months but with fresh perspective and hope, and I've even moved to a new apartment here in Lincoln. Amidst all of that, I trained for and completed my second half marathon this past weekend and beat my time from last year by 6 whole minutes.
The heavy stuff can wait for another day. Today I wanted to answer some questions I frequently get asked when I talk about running the half marathon. Some of them serious, some of them not so much.
Q: Are you crazy?
A: Quite possibly, but I prefer to think only half crazy.
Q: Have you always been a runner?
A: No way! Actually I used to hate running and I even quit Junior High track after just one week. Granted I was a scrawny little thing back then with no athletic ability or stamina but still, I wasn't a runner. I dabbled in running in college and grad school but never quite dove in. Then when I moved to Lincoln in 2011 and watched my friend and my cousin run the half here in town I decided I was going to be there in 2012 (and sure enough I was and again in 2013). Why it took this race to bring me around to running I'm not sure. I've spent several days watching my sister run full marathons and never had the desire. But something about Lincoln and the crowd and the route, just made it seem possible and - dare I say it - fun!
Q: How do you stay motivated?
A: I'll be honest, sometimes it's like this:
I titled this post Begin Again not only because I'm blogging for the first time in several months (and love that T. Swift song), but because in many ways I feel like that's where I am in my life right now. I'm not starting over completely from scratch, but simply beginning again where I left off in many ways. Many things have changed. My job is in a new department now and I LOVE IT, my personal life has changed tremendously in the last few months but with fresh perspective and hope, and I've even moved to a new apartment here in Lincoln. Amidst all of that, I trained for and completed my second half marathon this past weekend and beat my time from last year by 6 whole minutes.
The heavy stuff can wait for another day. Today I wanted to answer some questions I frequently get asked when I talk about running the half marathon. Some of them serious, some of them not so much.
Q: Are you crazy?
A: Quite possibly, but I prefer to think only half crazy.
Q: Have you always been a runner?
A: No way! Actually I used to hate running and I even quit Junior High track after just one week. Granted I was a scrawny little thing back then with no athletic ability or stamina but still, I wasn't a runner. I dabbled in running in college and grad school but never quite dove in. Then when I moved to Lincoln in 2011 and watched my friend and my cousin run the half here in town I decided I was going to be there in 2012 (and sure enough I was and again in 2013). Why it took this race to bring me around to running I'm not sure. I've spent several days watching my sister run full marathons and never had the desire. But something about Lincoln and the crowd and the route, just made it seem possible and - dare I say it - fun!
Q: How do you stay motivated?
A: I'll be honest, sometimes it's like this:
But most of the time the most motivating thing is progress. Whether it's a change in my body, increased energy, being able to go an extra half mile or mile, breathing easier, seeing little changes makes you that much more excited to go out and try it again. Also having a looming deadline of a big race helps quite a bit too!
Q: What's on your running playlist?
A: This is probably one of my favorite questions! I love finding new music to run to and my playlist for the half ranged from Lady GaGa to Chris Tomlin to Garth Brooks. If it has a good beat, if it's inspiring or motivating, it's likely to make the cut. Here's a list of my current favorites, although they are constantly changing:
- Canned Heat - Jamiroquai
- Strong Enough - Matthew West
- How Far We've Come - Matchbox 20
- I Will Wait - Mumford & Sons
- Everybody Talks - Neon Trees
- Lay Me Down - Chris Tomlin
- Edge of Glory - Lady GaGa
- Welcome to the Black Parade - My Chemical Romance
- Standing Outside the Fire - Garth Brooks
- Perfect Day - Hoku
I've also got a couple "guilty pleasure" running songs on my iPod as well - ones that I'm somewhat embarrassed to admit! Among them would be Stronger - Britney Spears and the Bellas Finale from Pitch Perfect. Actually I'm not at all embarrassed. You try getting through 13.1 miles without a little bit of cheesy music!
So there you have it, a little bit of my formula for success (a.k.a. surviving) when it comes to the half marathon. I'm still debating whether I will sign up again next year or not, or try a different 13.1. Truth be told it would be hard to turn down the chance to run the Lincoln Half again. The crowd and community support makes it all worth it and creates a fun environment in which to push yourself. For now my focus will be on keeping up with my running regimen even without a race looming on the calendar. I think I'll take this "off season" to really work on building my strength and my lung stamina and hopefully improve my pace a bit for the next race.
What are you doing to begin again today?
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
I am a G-A-M-M-A Phi Beta Girl!
I know I haven't written much about my sorority experience in Gamma Phi Beta on this blog but if there's two things I should tell you, it's this:
- It was by far one of the greatest decisions I made during my collegiate career and truly has helped me become the person I am today, and continues to do so.
- I would not trade my alumna experience to go back to my collegiate days for anything.
I'm currently serving as a Chapter Advisor for a chapter other than my initiating chapter and it has so far been both a challenge and a blessing. I've only been at it for a semester but it has already changed me for the better and pushed me way beyond my limits at times. But maybe that's the only time real change ever happens.
I haven't written about it up until this point because I could never quite find the words. Well, now I don't have to! Jenny, a fellow Chapter Advisor has done so in such a beautiful way that I'm certain my words would pale in comparison. Read her post below and understand what it truly means to make a lifetime commitment to this organization!
Sunday, July 8, 2012
And the greatest of these is Love
I am going to be hearing that verse a lot over the next few months. I'm 26. Almost 27 (eek!). So as you can imagine, I'm right in that sweet spot in life where A LOT of my friends are getting married, and some are even starting families and having babies. Case in point, this year, between June and the end of the year alone, I have 8 weddings that I have been invited to attend. Only two of these overlap. I'm exhausted even thinking about it. And so is my bank account.
Now don't misunderstand, I am so appreciative and excited that all of these friends have asked me to share in their special day with them! But as any other single person (or married person for that matter) can tell you, it gets to be a lot between the bridal showers, bachelorettes, gifts, etc. not to mention if you're actually an attendant in any of them! And furthermore, as someone who isn't married, it can be a little difficult to really get into the celebration when you yourself aren't even close to having this celebration of your own.
I'm only one in for the year - 7 more to go - but I've already decided that this can't be an excuse for a pity party. Despite where I am in my life, I can be ecstatic for my friends that have found that person to share the rest of their lives with. And I think I found a way to balance both my excitement for the bridge and groom with the faith that someday I will be in their shoes as well.
Sitting in Bible Study this morning and thinking about all of this, I remembered something my friend Nicole said in her blog before (See Sean and Nicole at the right!). She mentioned picking a couple a week from their church small group I believe, that she and her husband could pray for. That got me thinking, why couldn't I do that for those couples this year that I will see tie the knot? So I've decided that instead of stressing about all of the weddings and what that means for me, I am going to turn my energy to spending a week per couple praying for them and their new marriage and asking that God not only watch over them, but allow them to be an example to those around them of a loving, Christian marriage. I am so thankful for these people in my life that I think it's the very least I could do.
I'm not writing this to say "hey look what I'm doing" or looking for a pat on the back, but truly I want to invite all of you to join me in praying for any couples in your life that are tying the knot during this busy wedding season. Although any of us benefit from prayer at any point in our lives, I think praying for them at this very special time in their lives is especially important. They are joining their lives together and doing so under quite a bit of pressure considering how much planning and expense today's weddings seem to be accompanied by. So no matter where you are in your life, think of these special people whose lives are changing before our very eyes this year and ask for God's continued guidance in their marriage and their relationship with Him.
Now don't misunderstand, I am so appreciative and excited that all of these friends have asked me to share in their special day with them! But as any other single person (or married person for that matter) can tell you, it gets to be a lot between the bridal showers, bachelorettes, gifts, etc. not to mention if you're actually an attendant in any of them! And furthermore, as someone who isn't married, it can be a little difficult to really get into the celebration when you yourself aren't even close to having this celebration of your own.
I'm only one in for the year - 7 more to go - but I've already decided that this can't be an excuse for a pity party. Despite where I am in my life, I can be ecstatic for my friends that have found that person to share the rest of their lives with. And I think I found a way to balance both my excitement for the bridge and groom with the faith that someday I will be in their shoes as well.
Sitting in Bible Study this morning and thinking about all of this, I remembered something my friend Nicole said in her blog before (See Sean and Nicole at the right!). She mentioned picking a couple a week from their church small group I believe, that she and her husband could pray for. That got me thinking, why couldn't I do that for those couples this year that I will see tie the knot? So I've decided that instead of stressing about all of the weddings and what that means for me, I am going to turn my energy to spending a week per couple praying for them and their new marriage and asking that God not only watch over them, but allow them to be an example to those around them of a loving, Christian marriage. I am so thankful for these people in my life that I think it's the very least I could do.
I'm not writing this to say "hey look what I'm doing" or looking for a pat on the back, but truly I want to invite all of you to join me in praying for any couples in your life that are tying the knot during this busy wedding season. Although any of us benefit from prayer at any point in our lives, I think praying for them at this very special time in their lives is especially important. They are joining their lives together and doing so under quite a bit of pressure considering how much planning and expense today's weddings seem to be accompanied by. So no matter where you are in your life, think of these special people whose lives are changing before our very eyes this year and ask for God's continued guidance in their marriage and their relationship with Him.
Meanwhile...
Time for a catch up post! There is no excuse for having not written in this long, so I won't make one, but I will let you in on what I have been up to lately since I obviously haven't been blogging!
February:
In February I began training for the Lincoln Half Marathon. It started out slow but I soon got into a rhythm and genuinely enjoying my training runs! That is until....
March:
Training continued but about the second week in March I came down with an awful cold which then set up shop in my lungs. As you can imagine, this made running a tad more difficult! I was out of commission for a good three weeks and had to really work hard to even get back into training even though there was no way I was going to just pick up where I left off. As a result I probably cut my training short a bit, not getting the long 12 mile run in before the Half but I did get the 10 miler in.
April:
This month was unbelievably busy between wrapping up the semester with the sorority chapter I advise, finishing my training once I was able to, a busy budget season at work, and a multitude of other activities. Before I knew it, May was here and the Half Marathon along with it!
May:
On May 6th I completed my first Half Marathon! The day started out a little formidable when I woke at 5am to a massive thunderstorm hovering over Lincoln. Sure enough however, by the time we drove down to the start, it had started to clear and the humidity fell and it actually ended up being an amazing day for the race! I did have to walk a little and didn't get the greatest time but I was delighted to finish!
June:
In June I basically fell off the running wagon between various trips, a wedding, house guests and everything else. I did however get an awesome visit with my sister and her family at our Grandparents in Colorado. Including my handsome nephew.
I also had the privilege of taking seven of my collegiate members of my sorority chapter here on campus to our national convention in Denver. It was a phenomenal experience and I am so proud of the women who represented our chapter!
So that brings us to July and a torrent of wedding activity - more on that later! It's so hard to believe that 2012 is half over already - it will be Christmas before we know it - especially since Hobby Lobby already has Christmas decorations out (not kidding!).
February:
In February I began training for the Lincoln Half Marathon. It started out slow but I soon got into a rhythm and genuinely enjoying my training runs! That is until....
March:
Training continued but about the second week in March I came down with an awful cold which then set up shop in my lungs. As you can imagine, this made running a tad more difficult! I was out of commission for a good three weeks and had to really work hard to even get back into training even though there was no way I was going to just pick up where I left off. As a result I probably cut my training short a bit, not getting the long 12 mile run in before the Half but I did get the 10 miler in.
April:
This month was unbelievably busy between wrapping up the semester with the sorority chapter I advise, finishing my training once I was able to, a busy budget season at work, and a multitude of other activities. Before I knew it, May was here and the Half Marathon along with it!
May:
On May 6th I completed my first Half Marathon! The day started out a little formidable when I woke at 5am to a massive thunderstorm hovering over Lincoln. Sure enough however, by the time we drove down to the start, it had started to clear and the humidity fell and it actually ended up being an amazing day for the race! I did have to walk a little and didn't get the greatest time but I was delighted to finish!
Mom and I after my 2:47:55 finish!
With my cousin Jamie - one of my many inspirations to run the Lincoln Half - after stuffing ourselves silly post-race at Fireworks
June:
In June I basically fell off the running wagon between various trips, a wedding, house guests and everything else. I did however get an awesome visit with my sister and her family at our Grandparents in Colorado. Including my handsome nephew.
I also had the privilege of taking seven of my collegiate members of my sorority chapter here on campus to our national convention in Denver. It was a phenomenal experience and I am so proud of the women who represented our chapter!
So that brings us to July and a torrent of wedding activity - more on that later! It's so hard to believe that 2012 is half over already - it will be Christmas before we know it - especially since Hobby Lobby already has Christmas decorations out (not kidding!).
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Perspective
Sometimes it catches me by surprise just how great God is and how flawlessly He teaches His children in everyday moments.
This morning I was both honored and excited to spend some time with my dear friend Amanda and her mother as Amanda tried on her wedding gown for the first time. I knew it would be a fun appointment and would be very special to her and her mother. You see, Amanda's mom is battling breast cancer for the second time. With Amanda's wedding coming up this Summer and Amanda's brother and his wife expecting the first grandchild in May - she's got a lot to fight for! But despite everything she's faced with, she has the most remarkable attitude that I've ever experienced. Both she and Amanda made the most of today and do exactly that every single day. I was blessed to witness just a small piece of that today and I left that bridal shop feeling nothing short of convicted.
There are many days that I spend upset, discouraged, angry, for one reason or another and I struggle daily to keep perspective and to stay positive. And for what reason? Because I had a bad day? I'm unsure of a decision I've made? Truly these things are of no consequence in comparison to the challenges that people like Amanda's mom, or those that have lost jobs in the economic downturn, or those in third world countries who only want clean water face each and every day.
So with this newfound perspective, there are a couple realizations I've had. And maybe they're things you've heard before - I know I have heard some of them before - but I'm beginning to understand them further.
Love more.
Love when it's not deserved, not asked for, and even when it's not returned. Love anyway. You and those you love will always be better off if you follow that rule.
It's easy to say if you don't like where you are - change it. But in the world and the economy we live in today, it's not always that easy. So change it if you can, prayerfully consider it first and if you can't change it now, be grateful that you have been provided the time to gradually get where you need to be. Not everyone is that lucky.
Today was an important day for Amanda and her mom. And it was an honor to spend time with them, and even more of an honor to learn from and be inspired by them.
This morning I was both honored and excited to spend some time with my dear friend Amanda and her mother as Amanda tried on her wedding gown for the first time. I knew it would be a fun appointment and would be very special to her and her mother. You see, Amanda's mom is battling breast cancer for the second time. With Amanda's wedding coming up this Summer and Amanda's brother and his wife expecting the first grandchild in May - she's got a lot to fight for! But despite everything she's faced with, she has the most remarkable attitude that I've ever experienced. Both she and Amanda made the most of today and do exactly that every single day. I was blessed to witness just a small piece of that today and I left that bridal shop feeling nothing short of convicted.
There are many days that I spend upset, discouraged, angry, for one reason or another and I struggle daily to keep perspective and to stay positive. And for what reason? Because I had a bad day? I'm unsure of a decision I've made? Truly these things are of no consequence in comparison to the challenges that people like Amanda's mom, or those that have lost jobs in the economic downturn, or those in third world countries who only want clean water face each and every day.
So with this newfound perspective, there are a couple realizations I've had. And maybe they're things you've heard before - I know I have heard some of them before - but I'm beginning to understand them further.
Love more.
Love when it's not deserved, not asked for, and even when it's not returned. Love anyway. You and those you love will always be better off if you follow that rule.
It's easy to say if you don't like where you are - change it. But in the world and the economy we live in today, it's not always that easy. So change it if you can, prayerfully consider it first and if you can't change it now, be grateful that you have been provided the time to gradually get where you need to be. Not everyone is that lucky.
Today was an important day for Amanda and her mom. And it was an honor to spend time with them, and even more of an honor to learn from and be inspired by them.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
You are the Cheese to my Gnocchi....
Um, what? Yes I know, doesn't quite have the same ring as Juno's "You are the Cheese to my Macaroni" but let me tell you, it is quite possibly one of the best things I have ever made and definitely one of the best that I have eaten!
I introduce to you Gnocchi Mac & Cheese!
I introduce to you Gnocchi Mac & Cheese!
I first discovered this recipe on Pinterest (LOVE Pinterest!) and then followed the links back to the Noble Pig which is the food blog of Noble Pig Vineyard and Winery. It has some amazing recipes and I will definitely be visiting this site again!!
This recipe was actually super easy! I didn't make my own homemade gnocchi (someday!) but it was still amazing with the store bought kind. I also omitted the basil because I didn't have any on hand but I'm sure it would add a little extra color. When I took it out of the oven I could hardly wait to bite into the golden, gooey amazingness - and let me tell you - I was NOT disappointed! It was seriously good. I ate this as a meal in itself but I think it would make a great side too! I had it on a cold and blustery day here in Lincoln and with a yummy Chardonnay that I hope to review soon.
Here's the recipe! Enjoy and let me know if you try it out!!
Noble Pig Gnocchi Mac & Cheese (originally from Cuisine at Home)
1 pound purchased or homemade gnocchi
2 Tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons garlic, finely chopped
1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
3/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
1/4 cup shredded fontina cheese
Salt and white pepper to taste
1/3 cup shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano
Basil leaves for garnish, optional
Preheat oven to 375o F. Prepare gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and place gnocchi in a single-layer in a 1-1/2 quart shallow baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick spray.
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Whisk in flour until it thickens and bubbles, then whisk in milk and Dijon. Continue to whisk mixture and cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine Gruyere and fontina, then add by the handful to milk mixture, stirring until melted before adding the next handful. Once all cheese is melted, season sauce with salt and pepper.
Pour sauce over gnocchi and sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano over top. Bake gnocchi until they puff and cheese is golden and bubbly, about 25 minutes. let gnocchi rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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