tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40015107712957975882023-11-16T09:52:40.139-06:00Carpe Viam -Seize the RoadRunning towards my next half-marathon...Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.comBlogger133125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-62073668768814859562012-08-02T19:59:00.000-05:002012-08-02T19:59:00.667-05:00Hash Brown FailI love Pinterest. Seriously. The amount of fantastic ideas astound me. I could never have another original thought and live soley off Pinterest for the rest of my life. Just wake up each day and make/ create the first Pin I see. That actually sounds like a pretty awesome documentary idea right there. I'll let you take my idea if you promise me just a tiny fraction of the cut. Like 10%? It could be legendary.<br />
<br />
I saw a Pin that showed hash browns being cooked in a waffle iron. it was just so simple. Spray the pan, dump in hash browns, close the waffle iron, walk away. It just so happened that my LifeGroup was having breakfast for dinner this week, so I signed up to make it.<br />
<br />
(There is an entire website, waffleizer.com, dedicated to foods you can make in a waffle iron, such a pretzels, mac and cheese, and so on.)<br />
<br />
My result was a little less than spectacular. It seemed that the waffle iron just didn't get hot enough to cook the hash browns. I could tell that if the iron got hot enough it would have been fantastic, but alas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvvSp7T_bmw6mX9ru9LIB5UKL0iTHuVdk7xpMh-gARLHS5nX5BfIBNbtbE5zbCq30PKhiy3OdKGw14O28b4STMGZpsxDXeq6IkwfscbcWa8P1ZpekBMwim7GECBGOCyJrhmsW7FOrkoJQi/s1600/More+summer+2012+052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvvSp7T_bmw6mX9ru9LIB5UKL0iTHuVdk7xpMh-gARLHS5nX5BfIBNbtbE5zbCq30PKhiy3OdKGw14O28b4STMGZpsxDXeq6IkwfscbcWa8P1ZpekBMwim7GECBGOCyJrhmsW7FOrkoJQi/s320/More+summer+2012+052.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The poor little hash brown fail meant that I had a lot of leftover uncooked hash browns. Which is a random thing to try to eat the rest of the week. Tonight I made a nice little conction that I'll deem as a "hashwich". Unless that sounds too druglike. In that case my recipe will remain unnamed and probably unrepeated. <br />
<br />
I made a piece of toast. I cooked the hash browns with some deli meat chicken (I hate lunch meat, but it seemed like good protein). Then I fried an egg. Yes, I know, frying is bad. But delicious. Then I piled everything on top of itself. And ate it with gusto.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHhT_EqbYRrp1BI4KtF4ydJl_DIUJQUSXypXcFeuETfeKNOq4elfGpBs6zQjD7wXKkv8f8TjCtcoIdHZf-lkhbrQtpd7AizUFRJdhp53tGWLDr0HqCVMj7jmZ6gErwae-vsm4RzeEu7P4o/s1600/More+summer+2012+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHhT_EqbYRrp1BI4KtF4ydJl_DIUJQUSXypXcFeuETfeKNOq4elfGpBs6zQjD7wXKkv8f8TjCtcoIdHZf-lkhbrQtpd7AizUFRJdhp53tGWLDr0HqCVMj7jmZ6gErwae-vsm4RzeEu7P4o/s320/More+summer+2012+055.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
What should I do with the rest of my hash browns?Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-61253919653837649592012-07-31T19:43:00.000-05:002012-07-31T19:43:00.318-05:00It's All Coming Back, It's Coming Back to Me NowI love okra. Especially the breaded, fried kind. Yum. I live South enough that okra is a fairly common staple. We have fried okra, pickled okra, okra cooked with squash and potatoes.<br />
<br />
This summer we tried growing okra again (the last attempt was a big bust), and it succeeded! We have four plants. I would honestly double that for future consumption, because I can eat it all by myself, with no help from Lee.<br />
<br />
I've been roasting it, which is really beyond simple. I've found that the smallest stalks are most tender. I think the general rule is "less than five inches", but I might hazard a guess that I like them best under three inches. <br />
<br />
I spray a pan with non stick and the okra a little too. Then I sprinkle a small amount of seasoning on (I'm currently cooked on a Cajun blend), and bake in the oven about 10 to 15 minutes.<br />
<br />
And the result is just delicious!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSBEGYAXornJi4s4T1C-5dLivm7WxZ6_dGG6KtKDV4Lqlxhf2JsDdNU_sX9AIqmuwH0awuwiRIzE3Z8BZqfbdf2JQ6i32MLAWhEUIcc_F8s3GI0kzOld2YNVEuJtk01PnrMq54Gvi8_Ib/s1600/More+summer+2012+058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSBEGYAXornJi4s4T1C-5dLivm7WxZ6_dGG6KtKDV4Lqlxhf2JsDdNU_sX9AIqmuwH0awuwiRIzE3Z8BZqfbdf2JQ6i32MLAWhEUIcc_F8s3GI0kzOld2YNVEuJtk01PnrMq54Gvi8_Ib/s320/More+summer+2012+058.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I could have eaten three times as much as this and still thought I needed more. Yum.<br />
<br />
How do you eat your okra? Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-71242808030664988242012-07-30T20:11:00.000-05:002012-07-30T20:11:00.379-05:00It's All Coming Back, It's Coming Back to Me NowHere I am! Did you miss me???<br />
<br />
It's been a few months since I updated. The break was nice, and I've enjoyed it.<br />
<br />
Here's what you may have missed:<br />
<br />
<br />
- I started a new job after three years at Early Head Start. I miss EHS immensely, but am grateful for the experience in the social work field that I am gaining.<br />
<br />
- I got accepted into the Masters of Social Work program. I start in a few weeks!<br />
<br />
- I'm blonde now<br />
<br />
- I started participating in <a href="http://www.theleangreenbean.com/foodie-penpals/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Foodie Pen Pals</a><br />
<br />
- My husband and in-laws and I took a vacation to Branson, Missouri<br />
<br />
- I have a summer garden with okra, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. Except the peppers died. Sad.<br />
<br />
- I have been a reading fool since I've had a semester break from school.<br />
<br />
- It's summer in Oklahoma and my house has no air conditioning. It's hot here. Really hot.<br />
<br />
- I've ran at least one 5k a month. I haven't really ran between them, but I've got a few races under my belt this year.<br />
<br />
- I gave up soda. For a few weeks. And then I gave up giving up soda.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zYlJ4YhCVMA4cW9AlIMM8OqkimpVL32CBaQQ1Mxc5UR9aw9J8CDojfpb1nx4MGzSLI-pNQQ1jysdiPudrHZI3Ef5_wLlXbymn451Ee53Qq6OxU8dcCQPE63cbec2ulmfOOOpC3lMxuxE/s1600/More+summer+2012+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zYlJ4YhCVMA4cW9AlIMM8OqkimpVL32CBaQQ1Mxc5UR9aw9J8CDojfpb1nx4MGzSLI-pNQQ1jysdiPudrHZI3Ef5_wLlXbymn451Ee53Qq6OxU8dcCQPE63cbec2ulmfOOOpC3lMxuxE/s320/More+summer+2012+044.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
What about you? What did I miss?Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-82010888414268504372012-02-20T09:30:00.000-06:002012-02-20T09:30:01.940-06:00Pretty Fingers, Pretty ToesI love having painted nails. When I was in high school I would do them about every other day, or as soon as they chipped. I remember getting mad at my high school boyfriend because he didn't notice they were different than the day before (it was high school, that was apparently a way to prove if you loved someone). I love to coordinate my nails with a fancy outfit or do them in a theme for a holiday. I personally find this one of the easiest ways to express myself and the girliness that I just can't contain. It's a cheap way to play around with a look without spending lots of time and money on yourself. Someday when I have a baby girl I'll paint her nails (I joke with Lee that I would paint her nails in the hospital if we could get away with it.) <br />
<br />
Here's a peek at the tin I keep my nail polishes in:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETQLwv3FL7Ool88ePq6JL3ilXRUud0hM-7-70i17rswDWYaka4MgV2FP9zvevJ_UfCLDSXkJ6o1lKxmZfgWDubotyFbB3-jyFDcu_wZh6747hdfq9G3u2YbSLZARQnuIhyYWWXA2IRtLg/s1600/nailpolish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETQLwv3FL7Ool88ePq6JL3ilXRUud0hM-7-70i17rswDWYaka4MgV2FP9zvevJ_UfCLDSXkJ6o1lKxmZfgWDubotyFbB3-jyFDcu_wZh6747hdfq9G3u2YbSLZARQnuIhyYWWXA2IRtLg/s320/nailpolish.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I usually do them myself for a few reasons: 1) It's fun to do them 2) I'm cheap 3) After the <a href="http://www.carpeviamtoday.blogspot.com/2011/08/toe.html">yucky toe fiasco</a> I'm scare of fungi. I came across this adorable manicure on LoveMaegan.com and figured it was a fast, easy way to celebrate Valentine's Day on my nails. (she frequently has cute manicures on her <a href="http://www.lovemaegan.com/2012/02/pink-hearts-nails-valentines-day.html">site</a>).<br />
<br />
<br />
Here are the colors I used:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZCbQ602U3rKFFBvRx3naR2OYOF7WtbvRHurMPizmf5eBQxNZajaAlMXl3UZIkGlc60ucYoWI-63WKfvEP2BSghEe2n_qgiFlWPOzTtrimkrh5-j62Mhv583X5CZegQrRZpM4_R-v34Ly/s1600/what+i+used.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZCbQ602U3rKFFBvRx3naR2OYOF7WtbvRHurMPizmf5eBQxNZajaAlMXl3UZIkGlc60ucYoWI-63WKfvEP2BSghEe2n_qgiFlWPOzTtrimkrh5-j62Mhv583X5CZegQrRZpM4_R-v34Ly/s320/what+i+used.JPG" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
The first is <a href="http://www.essie.com/shop/grow-stronger-p-104.html">Essie Grow Stronger</a>. I try to use that as a base coat or use it when I haven't painted my nails. My nails tend to peel fairly easily. Then I used <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/category.jsp?categoryId=cat80006">Ulta </a>Lilac Chrome as the base color and <a href="http://www.newyorkcolor.com/products/nails">NYC</a> 131A Big Apple Red as the heart color. I sealed it all off with <a href="http://sallyhansen.com/products/nails/nail-care/miracle-cure-severe-problem-nails">Sally Hansen Miracle Cure</a> as the top coat because apparently I'm out of top coat (I usually use Essie).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Here's my finished result:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MpOUV7OrWTbsyxnzowvPAWrT0T-PF26lpZMfhHd4m6ZyqIIzM4mvw1j_wfvlW5WtASet13KjYdmdWHg6qAX8LHDi5WoQUsjDiug41zmjnLO2vb8nMDPpbmslPLhCvJdJSsA3zCPq5JX1/s1600/nails.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MpOUV7OrWTbsyxnzowvPAWrT0T-PF26lpZMfhHd4m6ZyqIIzM4mvw1j_wfvlW5WtASet13KjYdmdWHg6qAX8LHDi5WoQUsjDiug41zmjnLO2vb8nMDPpbmslPLhCvJdJSsA3zCPq5JX1/s320/nails.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsAib2VX16GhEheziWE72pJxz9OT6jxMhhG-aZvaNlKJm3DRqYM1kVNdWlfPOYeFM7HZJpb7wvhiUyHa0jvFAAH36sw6Tda-0B0hvjXYA90pMWhdOqVfg7aIAsjYUbo3aeI_7b8u8XDDe/s1600/more+nails.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsAib2VX16GhEheziWE72pJxz9OT6jxMhhG-aZvaNlKJm3DRqYM1kVNdWlfPOYeFM7HZJpb7wvhiUyHa0jvFAAH36sw6Tda-0B0hvjXYA90pMWhdOqVfg7aIAsjYUbo3aeI_7b8u8XDDe/s320/more+nails.JPG" width="282" yda="true" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Did you notice that I'm not wearing my wedding rings? I actually frequently don't wear them....For a variety of reasons I won't bore you with here.</div>
<br />
Hers turned out a lot cuter than mine, but this is an idea I would love to try again. I would probably make the hearts bigger. This was much easier than I expected, even on my right hand (which I think actually looks better than my left hand).<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-91146018218651387992012-02-19T10:00:00.000-06:002012-02-19T10:00:00.586-06:00Due DateFebruary 5th was my due date. I was caught unaware by the tidal wave of grief, guilt, loneliness, and sadness that engulfed me. It's been 18 months since we found out that our baby had already gone to Heaven to be with the Lord. In those months I have found healing that could have only come from God. Most days I am ok. But knowing that we were so close to what would have been our first-born's birthday hit me much harder than I expected.<br />
<br />
My cousin went into labor on the 5th. Her whole pregnancy I had prayed that she would have her sweet baby any day but that day. I hated hearing the regular reminders of when her baby was due- for the past eight months it's kicked me every time. When I found out her water had broken I was beyond depressed. I found myself thinking the kind of nonsense thoughts that appear in the mind when emotion rules over logic. I was happy for my cousin, but the unfairness of the situation sent me over the edge. My poor cousin had a rough birth story, and her baby wasn't actually born until the 6th. A selfish part of me was overjoyed.<br />
<br />
I think February 5th will always be hard for me. And I think that's ok. It is ok to set aside a day and mourn for what never was. I am giving myself permission to cry, to scream, to sit, to shake, whatever it is that helps me emote how I feel. I am honored to have held my baby in my belly for 12 weeks. She was a part of me, a part of Lee, a part of us. She'll always be a special part of our lives, and I thank God that we had her for the time that we did.<br />
<br />
Grief doesn't follow a timeline. In fact, grief knows no time. But my God is bigger than my grief. He holds me in my sadness and wipes away my tears. He reminds me that my precious child is already in Heaven with Him. How beautiful!<br />
<br />
Thank you for letting me speak of my darling baby. Thank you for letting me remember her today.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhceajtjaujBQdXZfU902Syr3OZCYMrsRylhHMDcMGw7XlokJZhTI1c-THEc0fd8fpnz0QZx9-KEvImHNOFzncIG6Q6rXbJwLfxXxXfE7iA9aNmmvgxIbl9cXQzXjELpu0nxvA2Kx9AbunI/s1600/8+weeks,+5+days.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhceajtjaujBQdXZfU902Syr3OZCYMrsRylhHMDcMGw7XlokJZhTI1c-THEc0fd8fpnz0QZx9-KEvImHNOFzncIG6Q6rXbJwLfxXxXfE7iA9aNmmvgxIbl9cXQzXjELpu0nxvA2Kx9AbunI/s320/8+weeks,+5+days.JPG" width="139" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB0J2BQ09RlN2-bLxpNs4R4zrUtElqCQtWUL_G3JYLDEbPvOTkHqmAPFGG5Omsc8HjQ7qLbwu-3A1c1dPaizHHFuw5r8tMQ8awno6y0m4PWi807Lj0aiAjXN32nG1jhU3GixQaFY_cHhrJ/s1600/Honeymooniversary+152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB0J2BQ09RlN2-bLxpNs4R4zrUtElqCQtWUL_G3JYLDEbPvOTkHqmAPFGG5Omsc8HjQ7qLbwu-3A1c1dPaizHHFuw5r8tMQ8awno6y0m4PWi807Lj0aiAjXN32nG1jhU3GixQaFY_cHhrJ/s320/Honeymooniversary+152.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XnAwWQBfUbn0G6nUgffEyQ90vh5I3KQLgdPOveJvFZu-dvXKkJ3wHdPu3beDRSShNODGhdx31ptQ7CXg_LJQrvRXhptsu5uSoQTBiQ8GMl5Zr9VpPa1tguQnKYE1MMPRFWgW7DKyz_g8/s1600/Summer+2010+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XnAwWQBfUbn0G6nUgffEyQ90vh5I3KQLgdPOveJvFZu-dvXKkJ3wHdPu3beDRSShNODGhdx31ptQ7CXg_LJQrvRXhptsu5uSoQTBiQ8GMl5Zr9VpPa1tguQnKYE1MMPRFWgW7DKyz_g8/s320/Summer+2010+001.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgP5xMaD-TS47E0Dsav4lmaA5D2B5c0wMRMLB0szmpTQMk0NoHjdh1vFavozw8NWJc5I4eHGHgh_nJdHHei98gjvUI0SJ7VISP3sUjz0qtCrI1j6z99bKG2unaIrgE5_7NcY6-Gm-NjBTk/s1600/Summer+2010+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgP5xMaD-TS47E0Dsav4lmaA5D2B5c0wMRMLB0szmpTQMk0NoHjdh1vFavozw8NWJc5I4eHGHgh_nJdHHei98gjvUI0SJ7VISP3sUjz0qtCrI1j6z99bKG2unaIrgE5_7NcY6-Gm-NjBTk/s320/Summer+2010+008.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisQeQDkoNhlsiqpnYVTMN5X8DR-KT87qdNRKrtc3VIGvFyl69ubGk0dUIa7ECuovoN5rTnLMnEQErVKAazOXGhVGGZ6plArKgORZOcQI2S338_ywJrhqFMeHKGqavUWlxLLI9PGJd-hGF/s1600/Summer+2010+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisQeQDkoNhlsiqpnYVTMN5X8DR-KT87qdNRKrtc3VIGvFyl69ubGk0dUIa7ECuovoN5rTnLMnEQErVKAazOXGhVGGZ6plArKgORZOcQI2S338_ywJrhqFMeHKGqavUWlxLLI9PGJd-hGF/s320/Summer+2010+009.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1m0UDwYwdZA1AVtsKy6In9QfNAArpr6FJ78Sv5eyZo8wFkcTAHA6V0CxVmASuu-aIzFSL6wS4-2uL5RvOQNLkIcB8zajHU3ZA-yBxu7oaEx8j7Aqt4fBPzBXaNK9nL2Ir97xo9kV9qOme/s1600/Summer+2010+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1m0UDwYwdZA1AVtsKy6In9QfNAArpr6FJ78Sv5eyZo8wFkcTAHA6V0CxVmASuu-aIzFSL6wS4-2uL5RvOQNLkIcB8zajHU3ZA-yBxu7oaEx8j7Aqt4fBPzBXaNK9nL2Ir97xo9kV9qOme/s320/Summer+2010+012.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzUiQFTbSvDtZGo16RZssSBAvEcTfUPXMuLeORmbJGF2RL89-pQalROJLj2vmCxplASwDj1EU95NAwoGw3R66_Nas7GpGi3kLfl3l5LoW-PeKPLAMz7avHPvx4Pr56xQtro3lk24b3_rg/s1600/Summer+2010+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzUiQFTbSvDtZGo16RZssSBAvEcTfUPXMuLeORmbJGF2RL89-pQalROJLj2vmCxplASwDj1EU95NAwoGw3R66_Nas7GpGi3kLfl3l5LoW-PeKPLAMz7avHPvx4Pr56xQtro3lk24b3_rg/s320/Summer+2010+006.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-76620356741764951712012-02-18T10:30:00.000-06:002012-02-18T10:30:00.871-06:00Painting My FaceI love makeup. I have loved makeup since Santa brought me Jane brand blush and powder in the eighth grade. I don't wear it everyday (who am I kidding, I don't wear it most days), but I love it still. At my current job I get messy and sweaty and dirty, so I skip makeup during the week. But then comes the weekend and all the fun color combinations and possibilities and I just get happy. <br />
<br />
But something bad happened.....<br />
<br />
.......<br />
<br />
.......<br />
<br />
....... I lost my makeup bag.<br />
<br />
I don't know how. I'm not sure when. The last time I remember putting makeup on was for New Year's Eve. I always put my makeup on in my bathroom, and that's where I keep it. I am soooo sad to have lost it, if for no other reason than all of the money invested into my makeup toys. (But let's keep that a secret between us and not tell my husband. He might go into cardiac arrest.) I kept thinking I would find it somewhere, but it's been well over a month, so I'm starting to doubt. So now I'm stuck trying to decide if I should replace everything or just wait. What is the bare minimum amount of makeup I can get by with? I miss all of my old stuff. The only good aspect of this is the potential for all the new makeup I get to buy (again, let's keep that on the DL and not tell Lee exactly how much makeup costs, even from Target). My friend Tara did help me out by giving me some makeup, which has been a lifesaver for church and social functions.<br />
<br />
So in the spirit of new makeup, let's celebrate the fun that is makeup! Here are a few of some of my favorite products:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P300607&categoryId=B70">Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXweeN2XDcxHP4qsV1WxdBi-4LsbHyz8LH_wKLCA_y6Ku1jONt8Xy2UegjuZn9osw7oHCofLjMfaLsN9Prjn_YleElGe3OsZ05t16kJXkW3IcpfBFlN8mjf3IltEFGkaafJ0keCxjZDRf/s1600/urban+decay+primer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXweeN2XDcxHP4qsV1WxdBi-4LsbHyz8LH_wKLCA_y6Ku1jONt8Xy2UegjuZn9osw7oHCofLjMfaLsN9Prjn_YleElGe3OsZ05t16kJXkW3IcpfBFlN8mjf3IltEFGkaafJ0keCxjZDRf/s1600/urban+decay+primer.jpg" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best eyeshadow primer ever. It glides on smooth and really lasts.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<a href="http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P241301&categoryId=B70">Too Faced Primer</a></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gWAFN99OObW9cBfuRWhQMlpUfwQuDl4ldBQyPPrR-yhyphenhyphen_4Oe49UsNqWnBAhyhttcA2qtMfyYFV0clYqJt-Scbl9OGaWrX0oPiu-OL0gCbjOGuWjHacXhd2qeyf2jYQJM8xat7pXuqhVT/s1600/too+faced+primer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gWAFN99OObW9cBfuRWhQMlpUfwQuDl4ldBQyPPrR-yhyphenhyphen_4Oe49UsNqWnBAhyhttcA2qtMfyYFV0clYqJt-Scbl9OGaWrX0oPiu-OL0gCbjOGuWjHacXhd2qeyf2jYQJM8xat7pXuqhVT/s1600/too+faced+primer.jpg" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Works great alone or under makeup. Makes my pores look smaller, which is a miracle.<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P231510&categoryId=B70">Benefit Powder</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrLwWlNMgXCm4Vm4579iKDTlwXO3IH88KNPupU_CKolT-GeYcO7-GyCa1l7SHH5V1dcCJkaPQgv7_7uMOrXnsknSODLjIxRE40oyNjnsgp75Fr7SGPhZq2S8BRAVLx_HrhbNuoCUX4SVJ/s1600/hello+flawless.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrLwWlNMgXCm4Vm4579iKDTlwXO3IH88KNPupU_CKolT-GeYcO7-GyCa1l7SHH5V1dcCJkaPQgv7_7uMOrXnsknSODLjIxRE40oyNjnsgp75Fr7SGPhZq2S8BRAVLx_HrhbNuoCUX4SVJ/s1600/hello+flawless.jpg" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comes with a sponge and a brush. Got this when I went to visit Lee for his basic training graduation in May and it had had lasted until I lost it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<a href="http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P1273&categoryId=B70">Benefit Concealer</a></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0bzz2FuXr0192OdJRPIZ61UD-lX1CoDECZiz8qdwOeTCwIfFoCRm3UAmRwrI7cfFB7rUsvpp-ofifyAzEL7EAjojpaARMD6cM00p-t_VFA-gGSgXMWMcanMZOt9tbl6QxcbK0X1uOhCa/s1600/boi-ing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0bzz2FuXr0192OdJRPIZ61UD-lX1CoDECZiz8qdwOeTCwIfFoCRm3UAmRwrI7cfFB7rUsvpp-ofifyAzEL7EAjojpaARMD6cM00p-t_VFA-gGSgXMWMcanMZOt9tbl6QxcbK0X1uOhCa/s1600/boi-ing.jpg" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So creamy and lightweight.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<a href="http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P295206&categoryId=B70">Benefit Illuminator</a></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWrnm7VTlzltxmw5Mf195H6ttE0Imu7nnGveBO_3jIwt_Go93wBKPhK4YV5vnLoPIxBYPDQSWh5yobWhY_THmZP1KntxbRiAWIdyeexqTfqtn56GqMRmf-ewVlPWvS-vypYJWzudoZsCZ/s1600/watts+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWrnm7VTlzltxmw5Mf195H6ttE0Imu7nnGveBO_3jIwt_Go93wBKPhK4YV5vnLoPIxBYPDQSWh5yobWhY_THmZP1KntxbRiAWIdyeexqTfqtn56GqMRmf-ewVlPWvS-vypYJWzudoZsCZ/s1600/watts+up.jpg" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I feel like I look so pretty when I use this around my temples or to highlight my cheeks. And it looks amazing in photos.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P278016&categoryId=B70">Benefit Blush</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUqGDPPaB6YTcMysEP424k2JQAdWBFB6yfj9yoULZ3jiB28uzfNLbFLr38z621qKlo-eQnJnUU7O1oE8QBfmQx7CNl84pMfkNgkKInjnbNZHfXMa-kYMbhvaRp99JFdRnUyo94tAfR-_8/s1600/bella+bomba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUqGDPPaB6YTcMysEP424k2JQAdWBFB6yfj9yoULZ3jiB28uzfNLbFLr38z621qKlo-eQnJnUU7O1oE8QBfmQx7CNl84pMfkNgkKInjnbNZHfXMa-kYMbhvaRp99JFdRnUyo94tAfR-_8/s1600/bella+bomba.jpg" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite blush. It is so bright and pink and has tiny little sparkles in it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<a href="http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P133707&categoryId=B70">Urban Decay Eyeliner</a></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKetiJM70HIlYInw8uDoFyEyrbpZxokWKhZKTrmOAyPywdEBWmVvVxfJehWQpVqO3J_xwWxujIlhfW1yKM7LlH__z30JedM95gNkDI-eGsV9IKAAALs2He9bPO9QGAD3A6YOEC1-thrJlc/s1600/urban+decay+eyeliner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKetiJM70HIlYInw8uDoFyEyrbpZxokWKhZKTrmOAyPywdEBWmVvVxfJehWQpVqO3J_xwWxujIlhfW1yKM7LlH__z30JedM95gNkDI-eGsV9IKAAALs2He9bPO9QGAD3A6YOEC1-thrJlc/s1600/urban+decay+eyeliner.jpg" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are expensive. But they glide on so smooth and effortless and come in so many colors.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There's not mascara on here because I can't commit to a mascara. I pretty much try every new one that comes out. I love DiorShow mascara most of all, but I go through it so fast that I'm not sure it's worth the cost.<br />
<br />
What's your favorite makeup? Where do you like to buy it from? Any suggestions for me?<br />
<div align="left">
<br /></div>Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-56778657968771365332012-02-17T23:01:00.000-06:002012-02-17T23:04:00.716-06:00Fitness Loves of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsMPzV3Q-nZewTqDl3GVdnjMWIEtOo9VVcHqKp7HgBJxKNnKv77TCNkCoqZ_mLIttzJwx35xxLTle5M85HQWWpP_zzh6hmT8xo271_Z_t57e6EkDJEqSjzDBnRJ1Y957Uejdp2d03RT_a/s1600/fitness+of+the+week.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsMPzV3Q-nZewTqDl3GVdnjMWIEtOo9VVcHqKp7HgBJxKNnKv77TCNkCoqZ_mLIttzJwx35xxLTle5M85HQWWpP_zzh6hmT8xo271_Z_t57e6EkDJEqSjzDBnRJ1Y957Uejdp2d03RT_a/s320/fitness+of+the+week.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
So I found this awesome "Fitness Loves of the Week" from <a href="http://insweetnessandinhealth.com/">In Sweetness and In Health</a>. I plan on trying to participate from now on. My husband is currently on overnight shifts on Friday nights, and I've been attempting to make sure that I still work out on Fridays. It's a pretty dead day at my gym, and it's nice to have space to myself.<br />
<br />
Today I was home sick. I went to the doctor on Wednesday after being sick for a few days. My primary care doctor was out (which was kind of stinky because this wasn't one of my random hypochondriac visits where he had to tell me to stop looking things up on the Internet- I was actually sick this time). I had to see another doctor in the practice who started talking to me about politics, which I so did not care about as I huddled wanly in the fluorescent lights on that tiny chair/bed thing covered in paper. The dr told me I was either getting over the flu (which I don't think I had) or it was just a virus. He told me not to go back to work until Monday, which was outrageous to me. It proved to be true though (of course), because my fever didn't break until late last night and my cough still sounded ferocious until this morning. <br />
<br />
So while the extent of my working out today consisted of actually getting out of bed and into the shower (which was really quite a feat), I figured I would tell you about what I have been doing to work out.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-eason-livefit-trainer.html">Jamie Eason Live Fit Trainer</a><br />
<br />
I've never lifted weights before, not really. Here and there, but just little girlie things with five pound weights. I started doing this trainer and I have LOVED it. I have such a sense of accomplishment when lifting weights. I adore it so far. I've about eight weeks in and have truly enjoyed it. There is a video accompanying each exercise in case you don't know how to do it (I watch every video because I don't know what 97% of it is). I've used machines I didn't now existed. I really like seeing progress- it's awesome to try a harder weight and be successful.<br />
<br />
Do you lift weights? Do you follow a program?Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-24081379314921816402012-02-17T09:30:00.000-06:002012-02-17T09:30:00.907-06:00Bumper Pads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYaDQkp9xGNN4MyERhtmYA1rZa01ZScJ1ir6qeTtKC2lT7GCT27cLHs0Rypuo0iE8xemIf9Wn9KJOr0hEYNKbPSGT_Os3iGgBSh5_F_WpD_w-uvZqA1GM2kLXu0cuGpXNznpnJ5eC8ErcY/s1600/bumper+pads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYaDQkp9xGNN4MyERhtmYA1rZa01ZScJ1ir6qeTtKC2lT7GCT27cLHs0Rypuo0iE8xemIf9Wn9KJOr0hEYNKbPSGT_Os3iGgBSh5_F_WpD_w-uvZqA1GM2kLXu0cuGpXNznpnJ5eC8ErcY/s320/bumper+pads.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Picture from Google Images</div>
<br />
The above image is adorable. I love owls. And a nursery with owls? That's great. But what concerns me is that the crib has bumper pads. The American Academy of Pediatrics had recommended for years that parents not use bumper pads in cribs due to the increased risk of SIDS. In 2010 they came out with their official ruling mandating that there should be nothing extra in the crib, including bumper pads.<br />
<br />
For the last three years I've worked with low income families with children aged birth to three. My job is great because I get to do a lot of education, especially with teen moms. Even though my job is to educate, I think I do a pretty good job of turning it off when I'm with family and friends. I don't tell my friend to stop using flashcards with her one year old or make judgment calls about how another disciplines. I just smile, because I know everyone has to figure out what works for their family on their own. It's not my business. But when I see my friends and family practicing something that could be potentially fatal, it scares me. I worry. I want to call people outright on it, but I don't know where the line is. So that's why I'm blogging about it. :) And I did post on Facebook, haha.<br />
<br />
<span class="goog_qs-tidbit goog_qs-tidbit-0">If in doubt, please take out your bumper pads. According to the <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/18/health/no-bumpers-cribs-sids-parenting/index.html">AAP</a>, "there is no evidence that crib bumpers protect</span> against injury, but they do carry a potential risk of suffocation, strangulation, or entrapment because infants lack the motor skills or strength to turn their heads should they roll into something that obstructs their breathing." I know it seems trivial or pointless, but I think it is a small thing someone can do to make sure they have no doubt about the health of a child.Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-1355558234297946012012-02-16T15:15:00.003-06:002012-02-16T15:15:57.691-06:00Blogs are like JournalsSometimes I critisize myself for my lack of blogging. Other times I want to delete the whole thing and start over. Or set myself a schedule that has me posting a minimum of three times a week with a carefully selected variety of topics. I'm currently home sick, mulling over life from my king sized bed, sipping my husband's Mt Dew and watching wedding shows on Netflix. I was debating about what to blog, if I should blog, if I should erase it all and hide myself in shame for terrible blogging. I realized that my blogging habits perfectly mimic my journaling habits. I hate going back to read my own journal entries. I find myself annoying, immature, and vapid. I would journal for a few days and then not touch it again for a few months. Then I usually throw my journal away, burying it in the trash can before anyone else can see it. Hello, that's exactly what it's like when I blog.<br />
<br />
And that's ok with me. I don't (overall) blog for others. Yes, I love it when people comment on my blog. I think it's fun when I can pass on something to another because of my blog. But at the end of the day, I blog because it's therapeutic. I blog so I don't forget my own life. I blog because it's constructive. Because typing out my fitness routines encourages me to be better. I blog because then I can read and comment on other blogs and not look like a creeper.<br />
<br />
Speaking of other blogs, I thought I would give a list of some of my current favs:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.girlsgonechild.net/">Girl's Gone Child</a> (also check out her book <u>Rockabye, From Wild to Child</u>- it's wonderful)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.lovemaegan.com/">Love Maegan</a> (Her DIYs are fun and easy, her engagement ring is gorgeous, and I like her hair tutorials)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cottercrunch.com/">Cotter Crunch</a> (probably the blogger I would most like to meet in real life)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wwepw.com/">What Would Emma Pillsbury Wear?</a> (because I would dress just like her if I could)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://skinnyrunner.com/">Skinny Runner</a> (I adore this blog. And I have two Skinny Runner shirts. So comfy and cute.)<br />
<br />
These are the five blogs I try to read with any consistency. I have close to 60 on my feeds list that I read often, but the five above are probably my favorite. I am always on the lookout for new blogs, especially any that deal with the topics I am most interested in (running, cooking, crafting, being dairy free, high heels, makeup, Jesus), so feel free to let me know of any of your favorite blogs.<br />
<br />
Why do you blog? Do you also keep a journal?<br />
<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-75469898919564594592012-02-10T23:04:00.001-06:002012-02-10T23:04:28.074-06:00Bedroom MakeoverWhile Lee was at technical school, his aunt and cousin helped me do a bedroom makeover. We needed one DESPERATELY. Two days before he left for basic training we got a king sized bed from his parents. Which was awesome...except a king sized bed didn't fit in our bedroom. So Lee built us a frame and we put it in the craft room/ office room/ whatever else we could shove in there room. His grandparents gave us a comforter and a set of sheets, and we were good to go. Right? Except no. Aunt Debbie and Danielle (his oldest cousin) are amzing with home decorating. Like it should be their jobs. Let me prove it to you.<br />
<br />
Here is the "before":<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJNW2UYsITLFnK8zHeyjTuEakxX-aB7r2M8T1_IVUNprQHfhjomsv4qu8MP3UOh2klURu6D9pkYe0sw59kYANy7r9xcJuDxz0IoN4nYQgqLjjJGId7T7khiztEqCJisuDZbJfEDHi-7-i/s1600/Fall+2012+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_d1ntym="71" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJNW2UYsITLFnK8zHeyjTuEakxX-aB7r2M8T1_IVUNprQHfhjomsv4qu8MP3UOh2klURu6D9pkYe0sw59kYANy7r9xcJuDxz0IoN4nYQgqLjjJGId7T7khiztEqCJisuDZbJfEDHi-7-i/s320/Fall+2012+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
You like our lovely green paint? When it was our random room, a friend gave us her leftover nursery paint. We figured it was good for a craft room. Who knew it would look so super special with the green paint?<br />
<br />
The shelves in the pictures are actually made from the walls of the sauna/ old baptismal pool from my church. From waaaay back in the day. Lee had made them for me and I loved them. They got relocated to our living room during the makeover.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtDt0XSyvcME0pOUuxuw6SzPYrVaJQ3_EBxSsDoABOzl9nso00IFrJBmgaHTkNYRBluxfBCwdcoc3Lqe3EBWqBsxWQTKjXjq4JeNveehahlQUgdNUekZXlLHzu5ANAKXMjpO4RfNxpApL/s1600/Fall+2012+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_d1ntym="72" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtDt0XSyvcME0pOUuxuw6SzPYrVaJQ3_EBxSsDoABOzl9nso00IFrJBmgaHTkNYRBluxfBCwdcoc3Lqe3EBWqBsxWQTKjXjq4JeNveehahlQUgdNUekZXlLHzu5ANAKXMjpO4RfNxpApL/s320/Fall+2012+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I sleep with a silk pillowcase. Anyone else?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1VoP8LMb9ufxWB3ZBwTifEeesd7hnrtmjndEKYKYMSmDc0Y6ZDZcbhYsAdQUoE69WWWU2KkRt7YLF2Uy_orVMiJ2O6sqh4VylE67fQGIgIO9EiCiFCtHBum2OGjzE1VZhsAUNbBdgawD/s1600/Fall+2012+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_d1ntym="73" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1VoP8LMb9ufxWB3ZBwTifEeesd7hnrtmjndEKYKYMSmDc0Y6ZDZcbhYsAdQUoE69WWWU2KkRt7YLF2Uy_orVMiJ2O6sqh4VylE67fQGIgIO9EiCiFCtHBum2OGjzE1VZhsAUNbBdgawD/s320/Fall+2012+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The "during":<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkM2HvNO03hDr1ZJKpmMGJFzFCFYGupBvD0jHc1cyqknZ8dQLgHZtBtXa8tnCDpT81BpV7_ywFG3Vt0dk9ED-VT79EJW9TA2xMhBjHJABtaqAIoevz5CLhxm7vaYxxsF-YQIytu_scW8w/s1600/Fall+2012+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_d1ntym="74" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkM2HvNO03hDr1ZJKpmMGJFzFCFYGupBvD0jHc1cyqknZ8dQLgHZtBtXa8tnCDpT81BpV7_ywFG3Vt0dk9ED-VT79EJW9TA2xMhBjHJABtaqAIoevz5CLhxm7vaYxxsF-YQIytu_scW8w/s320/Fall+2012+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I adore the paint color. It is one of my favorite things in the room. Lee's cousin Derek and his wife came over to do the paint. Since we were just doing the two walls, it went super quick.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyOlVdkiXMFbDASAkkRTYqTZrfYhZwPj23ZYyxGaiV-0LKGDjH3Y4hT0I0xg7RfDIKxEMYCypE8MnriSQ-L6ljoSzxuyVk26ziS2OTNdTHfhyphenhyphenSM4ppIlYJSxRpCvl_XNs51Bz7PPxCMieH/s1600/Fall+2012+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_d1ntym="75" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyOlVdkiXMFbDASAkkRTYqTZrfYhZwPj23ZYyxGaiV-0LKGDjH3Y4hT0I0xg7RfDIKxEMYCypE8MnriSQ-L6ljoSzxuyVk26ziS2OTNdTHfhyphenhyphenSM4ppIlYJSxRpCvl_XNs51Bz7PPxCMieH/s320/Fall+2012+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I don't think there's a thing that I don't like in the room. The mirror, the chandelier pictures, the sparkly lampshade.... They even made the headboard on their own. Derek supermelded it to the wall, so it may be there if we ever move.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZN-fnhGSj8Bir0SlRkwYatgjYVL2O6qZlGyrYAFoA4EXYyGypt0wzch9gyeseXicBocUBhLkQaD_LGNqJKBiC5OAW5J9HmZ6lHNE1TDG5u0k7vYgFDo6AVmBoOD0-GOkOawWoXTt5e_w/s1600/Fall+2012+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_d1ntym="76" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZN-fnhGSj8Bir0SlRkwYatgjYVL2O6qZlGyrYAFoA4EXYyGypt0wzch9gyeseXicBocUBhLkQaD_LGNqJKBiC5OAW5J9HmZ6lHNE1TDG5u0k7vYgFDo6AVmBoOD0-GOkOawWoXTt5e_w/s320/Fall+2012+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The "after":<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOK-c-aM0zmdZXZ_YrrY1SXf928banTfZ3T0hH7VHOaIo2WxJjzMAj9G7TXBWDoKhLJTRGTfcJ_InG7XrQhQrzItCC-98kIBjiLKi1YDyFNSM2N1F8x66WsyngBeDei6m27IMlhGRyEzt4/s1600/Fall+2012+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_d1ntym="77" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOK-c-aM0zmdZXZ_YrrY1SXf928banTfZ3T0hH7VHOaIo2WxJjzMAj9G7TXBWDoKhLJTRGTfcJ_InG7XrQhQrzItCC-98kIBjiLKi1YDyFNSM2N1F8x66WsyngBeDei6m27IMlhGRyEzt4/s320/Fall+2012+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIAHaqvZIdqK70Mffy9c5f-DKJFoXyqbq65IddAeFkiCDToSN61_Tk97JVpFSUAUJ1cRLGBS96YDuVpqQT6kO_fmGRglJyoeeAGxXxMglG5Nm1exvwnVw8-IIsTsO5ajLjft2J8BJZz19X/s1600/Fall+2012+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_d1ntym="78" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIAHaqvZIdqK70Mffy9c5f-DKJFoXyqbq65IddAeFkiCDToSN61_Tk97JVpFSUAUJ1cRLGBS96YDuVpqQT6kO_fmGRglJyoeeAGxXxMglG5Nm1exvwnVw8-IIsTsO5ajLjft2J8BJZz19X/s320/Fall+2012+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I LOVE MY NEW ROOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have the best in-laws. I am incredibly blessed. The best part of this whole thing is that we got to surprise Lee with it after he had been gone for six months. Awesome.<br />
<br />
Thank you, Aunt Debbie and Danielle (who even went shopping in Texas for me), as well as Derek, Molly, Cory, Danae, Sue, and Gary. It's perfect.Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-58653917546109260162012-01-24T22:39:00.001-06:002012-01-24T22:39:22.759-06:00Sparkly Headband RunI went for a run after work today. The goal was 4 miles, but my incredible slowness made it so that only 3 happened before I had to meet my sister at the grocery store. <br /><br />My legs were leaden as I began the run, and didn't ever soften too much. It is difficult to balance running with my new weight lifting plan- I'm always sore somewhere! I walked some, but jogged more, so I'm on my way to being super again. :). Here are today's stats:<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/24/3545.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/24/s_3545.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />I told you I was slow! I need to pick it up. And get a good snack in at the right time, and drink more water, and have a recovery drink or snack when I'm done. So now my poor run looks obvious- of course! <br /><br />Today I ran in shorts and a tshirt. I was colder than expected since it was supposedly 63 degrees outside. I did have on the cutest headband though. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/24/3546.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/24/s_3546.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />My friend Tara and I found it at a local boutique called On the Corner and it was worth every penny of the $5 I spent. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/24/3547.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/24/s_3547.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />After my run (and stretching, I got one thing right anyway), I sat back in my car. You like my passenger seat? What, you can't see my passenger seat? Me either!<br /><br />We should play a game called "What's Hiding in Katherine's Car?". You might think I have the advantage, but the truth is I have no idea what's in there either. I know a banana and a jar of peanut butter are under my gym bag. A People magazine is in there, a tub of soy protein powder, two coats, a headband that's a gift, a bottle of water, and my giant purse.... Wait, there's more- my weight lifting gloves, iPhone armband, gym pass, headphones, pair of socks, pair of pants, a novel entitled Confessions of a Counterfeit Farm Girl.... That may be all. :)<br /><br />And I'll leave you with a funny from Pinterest: <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/24/3548.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/24/s_3548.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-71636556334168225952012-01-17T10:38:00.000-06:002012-01-17T10:38:00.800-06:00Time to Get a GunI know gun control is a hot issue in America. Where I live, hunting is common, guns are common, and many of my friends have their Conceal and Carry licenses. I didn't grow up with guns. Actually, it turns out that I did grow up with guns in the house, but I wasn't aware of it....yikes. Thanks, mom and dad. My husband comes from a family that hunts. He learned to shoot and about gun safety when he was five. I am pretty scared of guns. I hate the thought of what could happen accidentally. But I also can't stand to think that someday the awful thing could be that I don't know how to use a gun. I asked Lee to start teaching me how to really handle a gun. I've gone skeet shooting or target shooting a few times for fun, but I want to be able to defend myself if the time ever comes.<br />
<br />
My brother and Lee and I went to Lee's family land over the weekend and did some target shooting. I have to say, it is extremly satisfying to shoot a can of soda off the target and watch it explode. Who knew? We made our own target out of a box Lee had originally planned to make into a plyometrics box.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4f2XcaBx9OgqyA7BT7hOcrsywzahU3rBM61uZ_WXZ2N2VzJu9UsJi8atQEKTDHdjP-PtfKl7ayhr8-p_j0iEJQSXXuHi2DWp54G1YYVlr8ViuLsXXozDmtM3kHpBeYFwMFQ7d4V2KATBO/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4f2XcaBx9OgqyA7BT7hOcrsywzahU3rBM61uZ_WXZ2N2VzJu9UsJi8atQEKTDHdjP-PtfKl7ayhr8-p_j0iEJQSXXuHi2DWp54G1YYVlr8ViuLsXXozDmtM3kHpBeYFwMFQ7d4V2KATBO/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDuhUiBIPcaDp_g3sZzK5KCjdHAAsT5KI_s122R0LWfKqjBL-FVCs8rP1eHzYfT84QcvM9qZ0JTjosaEdryHwOMPmsCmKkpBlK_LAXtOxlivjn0-YSko-_lQec4gkuWE2G4_IkpyZc7t6/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDuhUiBIPcaDp_g3sZzK5KCjdHAAsT5KI_s122R0LWfKqjBL-FVCs8rP1eHzYfT84QcvM9qZ0JTjosaEdryHwOMPmsCmKkpBlK_LAXtOxlivjn0-YSko-_lQec4gkuWE2G4_IkpyZc7t6/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+022.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglNCu65ErGLrv4YkDF9CJ_B3NH-xMzpnwFxFpbW6nJFxm98I1jtH_h8ZD8CJtIeYmlPxk_QKWvnmVEN4vzhcT1-sMILMxDV2xp6R0HkGZJHX7FzeqYBZrInSGlaO2hgEesI6JcorCrvTJ9/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglNCu65ErGLrv4YkDF9CJ_B3NH-xMzpnwFxFpbW6nJFxm98I1jtH_h8ZD8CJtIeYmlPxk_QKWvnmVEN4vzhcT1-sMILMxDV2xp6R0HkGZJHX7FzeqYBZrInSGlaO2hgEesI6JcorCrvTJ9/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+026.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghNCKrd2Kyq2fW4Q2qcFkZIXqBxqsTXwASaMbtDxicoQtyKnBuRJPtamkwU5oYqerOehGdeOBxIfuHmXVdNKaMZmNY538nc7muFz220sXZbQo3SkcVFx52XvdduyEmWZ7gh-b8i92Fr1Jb/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghNCKrd2Kyq2fW4Q2qcFkZIXqBxqsTXwASaMbtDxicoQtyKnBuRJPtamkwU5oYqerOehGdeOBxIfuHmXVdNKaMZmNY538nc7muFz220sXZbQo3SkcVFx52XvdduyEmWZ7gh-b8i92Fr1Jb/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+027.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucrhZEp15tRf3CUIhIsULSuwSGinArZoQZcuS-8CHozFi7oPLaaHyjgaXbDWbiW7sHdMo0x0_rRkczhWWtqPPWPcGygaosL4s-0uhEHG8n1MRW2N_mBAU556RmUSVNRcufvLQnGuUTa2s/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucrhZEp15tRf3CUIhIsULSuwSGinArZoQZcuS-8CHozFi7oPLaaHyjgaXbDWbiW7sHdMo0x0_rRkczhWWtqPPWPcGygaosL4s-0uhEHG8n1MRW2N_mBAU556RmUSVNRcufvLQnGuUTa2s/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrpdJIuYA06-2RxL_2vX3VGL6JRlJ3iarvv_3r83WERF0l7dWCUKGzW6c9VIEyN4wSWP9AYcF_xfOAJWOxIgvOcvPBjcAkSiQtrEaRr5wd64pZsSSHdm87Ldlezostp66EfoB0wNW-sVD/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrpdJIuYA06-2RxL_2vX3VGL6JRlJ3iarvv_3r83WERF0l7dWCUKGzW6c9VIEyN4wSWP9AYcF_xfOAJWOxIgvOcvPBjcAkSiQtrEaRr5wd64pZsSSHdm87Ldlezostp66EfoB0wNW-sVD/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwy7WiFbScWiNgWyShMbmpF1Y1dz6DvmAZyehIstOKwbau5dWTaDDp3KC01bU3G71-U46jLqM2lofdNoQ40xHuq6jrLQGeTEnk0dFmvv25Ewpc9HLHVw9S_EeuYjRAmmQ2-A5GoNVirRgF/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwy7WiFbScWiNgWyShMbmpF1Y1dz6DvmAZyehIstOKwbau5dWTaDDp3KC01bU3G71-U46jLqM2lofdNoQ40xHuq6jrLQGeTEnk0dFmvv25Ewpc9HLHVw9S_EeuYjRAmmQ2-A5GoNVirRgF/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+080.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcFqwlMAV6be_i2bJVkbzbrUj_h6eZrLfBCKbcZYhlASr1qT5v4KQto-rHrIef5tTI2Ye3KQdFtygf0pSPGrszKktzNHUCdbbAxgBL8FDLuBxp6aLneiPptN7ZpRzpJS971jl2SCaMNOvy/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcFqwlMAV6be_i2bJVkbzbrUj_h6eZrLfBCKbcZYhlASr1qT5v4KQto-rHrIef5tTI2Ye3KQdFtygf0pSPGrszKktzNHUCdbbAxgBL8FDLuBxp6aLneiPptN7ZpRzpJS971jl2SCaMNOvy/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+029.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvWxbzj4pBDHvQ1bflomkpGJuQTsTAAotq7Q-L1e4tOsrM6oXocS1eSOVMTBhAF88eFddKbLS7J_4Ut2dFJTo7aN_5JZECLIlMntAYAn1_qoyfrra_ty9QjhkBWuLi5vAyh_EkXTL2_7h/s1600/Katherine+Iphone+pics+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvWxbzj4pBDHvQ1bflomkpGJuQTsTAAotq7Q-L1e4tOsrM6oXocS1eSOVMTBhAF88eFddKbLS7J_4Ut2dFJTo7aN_5JZECLIlMntAYAn1_qoyfrra_ty9QjhkBWuLi5vAyh_EkXTL2_7h/s320/Katherine+Iphone+pics+031.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Did you grow up with guns? Do you have them now? Do you have any advice for me?<br />
<br />
***A gold star for you if you recognized the post title as Miranda Lambert lyrics.<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-18100684967950961022012-01-16T19:53:00.002-06:002012-01-16T19:53:18.612-06:00First Run of 2012RUNNING:<br />
<br />
Lee and I were at the gym today when I got a text from Stephanie asking if I wanted to run. I was a little nervous because the last time I ran was over a month ago, and it was inside on my home treadmill. After a brutal Shoulders and Abs workout (more on that later), I met Stephanie at the softball field.<br />
<br />
Our stats were pretty dismal (due to my frequent stops and us walking the whole first mile), but we ended up with 2.36 miles (3 laps at the softball field) in 36:49. But I just keep thinking of this post I saw on Pinterest:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9zkNPP4NARsZs1bJi6HJapLm3ACuMawIzJS_8CZahoInzc_bIUYEvuin35h_NlH6MxTEHahkUjOb7aamW3JK1RW5sE8hgJrT-7Q5XleCvufpB9E_pICaoX6qvAp5UQGLGNdlfx7ppjyT1/s1600/on+the+couch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9zkNPP4NARsZs1bJi6HJapLm3ACuMawIzJS_8CZahoInzc_bIUYEvuin35h_NlH6MxTEHahkUjOb7aamW3JK1RW5sE8hgJrT-7Q5XleCvufpB9E_pICaoX6qvAp5UQGLGNdlfx7ppjyT1/s1600/on+the+couch.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We are going to run in the morning and hopefully that 36 is going to turn into a 33! It amazes me how quickly my body "forgets" how to run.<br />
<br />
SHOULDERS AND ABS:<br />
<br />
For the past few weeks I have been following the <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-eason-livefit-12-week-trainer-at-home-workout-pull-day.html">Jamie Eason Live Fit workout plan</a> on bodybuilding.com. It is my first time to go on the "boy side" of the gym and use weights. It's been hard and also incredibly fun. Every day has been a new challenge. I have discovered that I am a weakling! I haven't advanced past ten pound weights on most of the exercises for my arms. Today I did my first Shoulders and Abs workout and it kicked my booty! I had to use five pound dumbells and some of the exercises were still too hard. I love the website because it is free and it has a detailed video on how to do each exercise.<br />
<br />
Have you ever lifted weights? Did you enjoy it? If you are a girl, was it hard to go onto the side more heavily populated by men?Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-74605817635115834402012-01-10T21:49:00.001-06:002012-01-10T21:49:55.074-06:00No New ThingsSo today I was going to blog about the wonderfulness that is my Kose Softymo Cleansing Oil from amazon. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that I am so often entranced by things. I am such a typical American consumer, caught up in the world and the things it tells me I need. I read about something on a blog or in a magazine, and I'm to the store or purchasing it on Amazon before I even realize it. And I'm often giddy with the chance to try something new. I love the experience of exploring a new beauty product or making a new recipe. If I'm sad, I buy some lipgloss. Going to a party? I need a new dress.<br />
<br />
But at the end of the day, those things are only things. Things that I let get in the way of my relationship with God. Things are ok when I remember that they are only things. But sometimes I forget. I choose to forget. How terrible! How seriously wretched am I! <br />
<br />
So for the next 30 days, I am committing myself to buy no new things. I have more than enough. If I run out of something, that's different (if I actually run out of laundry detergent or something practical, not like I'm "almost out" of mascara). Just to challenge myself to stop being so materialistic and give the focus back to God. What if instead of walking around Target for an hour I meditate upon His words? Sit down and just soak in His goodness?<br />
<br />
This will be hard for me. Harder than I even realize yet. But it needs to happen. Has to happen. I need to get out of my own way for once and let Him in.Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-87231448717556582692012-01-09T08:39:00.000-06:002012-01-09T08:39:00.432-06:00Tortilla and Black Bean PieWe had some friends over the other night and I made a very modified version of Martha Stewart's Tortilla and Black Bean Pie.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/336692/tortilla-and-black-bean-pie?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/meatless-comfort-food">Here is her recipe</a>:<br />
<br />
<div class="yield">
Ingredients (serves 6):</div>
<div class="ingredients recipe-section" sizcache="22" sizset="48">
<div class="item-list" sizcache="21" sizset="39">
<ul class="content-multigroup-group-ingredient" sizcache="21" sizset="39">
<li class="ingredient first">4 flour tortillas (10 inches)</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 tablespoons canola oil</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 large onion, diced</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 jalapeno chile, minced (remove seeds and ribs for less heat)</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 garlic cloves, minced</li>
<li class="ingredient">1/2 teaspoon ground cumin</li>
<li class="ingredient">Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed</li>
<li class="ingredient">12 ounces beer, or 1 1/2 cups water (I used Bud Light with Lime)</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 package (10 ounces) frozen corn</li>
<li class="ingredient">4 scallions, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish</li>
<li class="ingredient last">8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (2 1/2 cups)</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div class="recipe-section instructions" sizcache="21" sizset="51">
<h2>
<span style="font-size: small;">Directions</span></h2>
<div class="item-list" sizcache="21" sizset="51">
<ol class="content-multigroup-group-steps" sizcache="21" sizset="51">
<li class="step first">Preheat oven to 400 degrees. With a paring knife, trim tortillas to fit a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of the pan as a guide. Set aside.</li>
<li class="step">Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, jalapeno, garlic, and cumin; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 5 to 7 minutes.</li>
<li class="step">Add beans and beer, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium; simmer until liquid has almost evaporated, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in corn and scallions, and remove from heat. Taste and adjust for seasoning.</li>
<li class="step last">Fit a trimmed tortilla in bottom of springform pan; layer with 1/4 of the beans and 1/2 cup of cheese. Repeat three times, using 1 cup cheese on top layer. Bake until cheese melts, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove side of pan; sprinkle pie with scallions. To serve, slice into wedges.</li>
</ol>
</div>
<div class="step last">
The tortillas I bought didn't need to be trimmed- they fit right into my springform pan. Also, because this was originally a vegetarian recipe and we were having company, I added a layer of browned ground beef in (which I suggest seasoning). I also made some refried beans that I used as the bottom layer to "anchor" the other two layers in. I also forgot to add the corn into the black bean mixture (that's what I get for rushing around trying to get ready for our friends), so my husband helped me take off the layers and shove some corn in there. It turned out fine. :)</div>
<div class="step last">
<br /></div>
<div class="step last">
I honestly really enjoyed this recipe. It would have been great with chicken instead of the ground beef. I had sour cream, salsa, and warm queso out to use as condiments (which was good because the recipe was slightly dry). And it must have been somewhat good, because the couple Facebooked me and asked for the recipe! Yay. </div>
<div class="step last">
<br /></div>
<div class="step last">
FRIENDS:</div>
<div class="step last">
My husband and I have been making an effort to have people over more lately. Now that I am done with school and we have more time, our evenings are pleasantly free. And since I love any excuse to cook/ bake/ play hostess, it really makes me feel special. I have enjoyed the last two weeks of guests and am really looking forward to who we will have over in the future.</div>
</div>Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-16637380974749842852012-01-08T20:21:00.000-06:002012-01-08T20:44:38.220-06:00Turkey Meatloaf MuffinsI recently started doing some workouts from bodybuilding.com. This has been my first experience lifting weights or even going onto the "boy" side of the gym. After 4 weeks of 2-3 weekly workouts, I have discovered that I LOVE lifting weights. It feels so good. It's satisfying to walk in with a plan (I am using the Jamie Eason Live Fit plan) and complete it well. Now that I (mostly) have the workout portion of my life under control, I am set to tackle the diet part of my life.<br />
<br />
Today I made a recipe suggested from my workout plan. Target and Walmart were both out of ground turkey and ground chicken, so I had to go to a different Walmart later in the day.<br />
<br />
I made a rookie mistake when making my muffins- I had put in all my spices and looked down to realize I was holding a tablespoon instead of a teaspoon. Not really sure how that happened...I tried to scoop out the extra, but the muffins are a little spicy. Zing! <br />
<br />
Here is the recipe (from bodybuilding.com):<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h1 class="content-main-header">
Turkey Meatloaf Muffins </h1>
<strong>Calories:</strong> 80<br />
<strong>Fats:</strong> 2 grams<br />
<strong>Carbs:</strong> 4 grams<br />
<strong>Protein:</strong> 11 grams<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/images/2010/video-jamie-eason-turkey-meatloaf-muffins_a.jpg" id="wicket-generated-id-72" wicketfocusset="true"><img alt="Turkey Meatloaf Muffins" height="300" src="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/images/2010/video-jamie-eason-turkey-meatloaf-muffins_asm.jpg" width="480" /></a> </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
Ingredients: </div>
<ul><br />
<li>2 lbs <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('5305')" id="wicket-generated-id-73" wicketfocusset="true">ground turkey</a> (or <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('5011')" id="wicket-generated-id-74" wicketfocusset="true">chicken</a>) </li>
<li>3 <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('1124')" id="wicket-generated-id-75" wicketfocusset="true">egg whites</a> </li>
<li>1 cup <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('20038')" id="wicket-generated-id-76" wicketfocusset="true">quick cooking oats</a> </li>
<li>1/2 tsp <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('2014')" id="wicket-generated-id-77" wicketfocusset="true">ground cumin</a> </li>
<li>1/2 tsp <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('2042')" id="wicket-generated-id-78" wicketfocusset="true">dried thyme</a> </li>
<li>2 tsp <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('2046')" id="wicket-generated-id-79" wicketfocusset="true">dry yellow mustard</a> </li>
<li>2 tsp <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('2030')" id="wicket-generated-id-80" wicketfocusset="true">black pepper</a> </li>
<li>2 tsp chipotle pepper spice </li>
<li>1 tsp <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('2047')" id="wicket-generated-id-81" wicketfocusset="true">salt</a> </li>
<li>2 tbsp <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('2020')" id="wicket-generated-id-82" wicketfocusset="true">garlic powder</a> (2 cloves minced) </li>
<li>1 small <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('11282')" id="wicket-generated-id-83" wicketfocusset="true">onion</a> (finely chopped) </li>
<li>2 <a href="javascript:nutrientpop('11143')" id="wicket-generated-id-84" wicketfocusset="true">celery stalks</a> (finely chopped) </li>
</ul>
<div class="content-sub-header">
Directions: </div>
<ol><br />
<li>Preheat oven to 375 degrees. </li>
<li>Spray muffin pan with canola or olive oil. </li>
<li>Mix all your ingredients together in one large bowl. </li>
<li>Roll the mixture into balls and place in muffin pan. Muffins should be about the size of a racquetball. </li>
<li>Bake for 40 minutes. <br />Makes 12 muffins.<br /><br />Serving Size:<br />Women: 2 muffins<br />Men: 4 muffins</li>
</ol>Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-25779558874407544722011-10-26T14:43:00.001-05:002011-10-26T14:43:59.978-05:00Fake ButterfingersIs anyone else out there as addicted to Pinterest as I am? I love the site and frequent it daily. I have the app on my phone. My sister and I send pictures and ideas via text message multiple times a week. Instead of browsing the web for cooking/ craft/ beauty ideas, I simply pull up the "Everything" tab and have it all at my fingertips. <br /><br />Last night I attempted the butterfingers recipe from Plain Chicken's blog. Thank you, Plain Chicken and Pinterest!!! (http://www.plainchicken.com/2010/11/homemade-butterfingers.html?m=1). I loved that the recipe only called for three ingredients (hey, I am still a poor college student). <br /><br />I went to my parents' for our weekly NCIS night and set the ingredients out on the counter- a jar of honey roasted peanut butter and a bag of candy corn. My sweet momma came up and asked "Oh, you're making butterfingers?". I was amazed at her powers of deduction, because I would have never guessed that! Ever! My mom is a genius. <br /><br />I could only find a 24 oz bag of candy corn at my baby Target store (which meant that after I measured out two cups I had some to snack on, yum). Baby Target also did not carry the candy coat. Boo. I drizzled melted chocolate chips on top of some of my pieces, but it wasn't that good. I wouldn't recommend that. <br /><br />On a side note, dark chocolate can be dairy free. But I have yet to find any dark chocolate, dairy free chips. Which is probably a sign to just stay away, but I love it so. <br /><br />I found that the candy corn cooled very quickly and also got very hot, so be careful to stir quickly and use pot holders. I had to swap out my spatula for a wooden spoon to keep up with the rough consistency. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/26/2448.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/26/s_2448.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I was very happy with this recipe and would make it again. I actually really enjoyed eating mine plain and may not even bother with the candy coating in the future. If you plan on shaping the mixture for pops or using a cookie cutter, you might want to grease your hands slightly. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/26/2449.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/26/s_2449.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />To change the subject to one of my favorite subjects... The hubs is currently in North Carolina for Rescue School. It sounds pretty awesome. The military has given him some great opportunities, and I'm so thankful God has lead us down this road. God really knows what He's doing. Someday maybe I will learn to be patient and trust Him. That's the goal anyway. <br /><br />He sent me this picture of him rappelling after a morning lecture. Looks awesome. I wish I was getting paid to go rappelling! I also wish I got paid to sit on my couch in my flannel pj's watching Wizards of Waverly Place, but that's probably not going to happen too soon, so I'll hang onto my day job. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/26/2450.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/26/s_2450.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />He is so cute!!<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-12366435469646125472011-10-12T16:28:00.001-05:002011-10-12T16:28:06.681-05:00Vegan Green Bean CasseroleThe main dish at bible study this week was a pasta bar (which was a very fun and new idea). Lee and I decided to make a green bean casserole, which is one of his favorite side dishes. <br /><br />I found an awesome Pioneer Woman recipe on her website that involved bacon. I think my husband would love it. However, I decided to search for a version that I could actually eat. <br /><br />I found the recipe by a simple Google search. I just love Google. I pretty much followed the recipe as is. Well, I followed it some. I used frozen onion (which I didn't measure out) and canned mushrooms to save money and to make my life easier as I was cooking at my in-laws' house. I accidentally bought herb and spice chicken bouillon, so I didn't add much other seasoning. I used two cans of green beans instead of one. I also didn't really know what size of fried onions to get, so I used two of the bigger Walmart brand bags. I think those are all my changes... <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/12/2807.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/12/s_2807.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/12/2808.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/12/s_2808.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/12/2809.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/12/s_2809.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />I think the recipe said to mix it fast as it would coagulate, but I saw no coagulation occurring. Since the final product was good (better than normal, in my opinion), I think it's ok. <br /><br />Yay for a successful dairy-free recipe!!!<br /><br />http://www.godairyfree.org/Recipes/Sides/Green-Bean-Casserole-Vegan.html<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-4849315328207930292011-10-08T22:42:00.001-05:002011-10-08T22:42:13.442-05:00Funfetti DipWe had a going away party for my sister last week with my dad's side of the family. All of his immediate family lives in our town, so it makes get-togethers fairly easy. We didn't meet until 7:30, so we just indulged in desserts. I made a Funfetti Dip I had seen on Pinterest. The recipe is below. <br /><br />Since I'm lactose intolerant, I only ate a few bites. (I'm obviously still having an issue cooking like I can't eat dairy). I liked it, but honestly didn't find it that different from just eating icing. However, my husband loved it and ate on it all week. So I will probably make it for him again. It's also good for parties. We ate it with animal crackers. I think you could probably change up the type of cake mix or the dipping item and get pretty creative. You could probably even use it as a special frosting. <br /><br /><br />http://www.littlebittybakes.com/2011/01/3-2-1-funfetti-cake-batter-dip.html?m=1<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-38060520299339422652011-10-07T20:42:00.001-05:002011-10-07T20:42:19.869-05:00Flood<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/07/3635.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/07/s_3635.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Our house flooded early last week. I walked in to our office/ storage space to grab a pair of scrubs and experienced a gush of water flowing over my foot. What an early morning surprise!<br /><br />It turned out that two rooms of the house and some hallway space had flooded. We're still not entirely sure why. We had to rip up the carpet and the house is still drying out. It smells damp and moldy. Since Lee's grandpa built the house 55-plus years ago, there are a few special aspects to that house, including the fact that the windows don't open and some lovely yellow linoleum that looks like carpet. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/07/3636.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/07/s_3636.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />In a miracle show that only God can be recognized for, the majority of our stuff that was resting on the soaked carpet remained dry. Considering all the supplies my sister had been storing to take to Africa were in there, as well as three boxes of childhood memories, that was pretty dang awesome. <br /><br />Staying at the in-laws has been pretty fun. I enjoy seeing them and spending time with their dogs. And they have cable! And snacks. It has been a little annoying trying to shuttle my clothes and toiletries back and forth. It seems like I never have what I need in the place I am located. It also has been a pain driving 15 minutes each way to go home and play/feed/ love on our dogs. Other than that, it has been enjoyable staying over here. <br /><br />Have you ever had a flooded home? What did you do?<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-76713632671375211912011-09-25T16:30:00.001-05:002011-09-25T16:30:59.406-05:00Pumpkin Dump CakeI love all things pumpkin. Lattes, ice cream, pasta. Yum. So when I saw this pumpkin dump cake recipe on Pinterest, I knew it was a must make. Here is the link to the original blog. The pictures are great and the instructions are clear and very easy. <br /><br />http://cookiesandcups.com/pumpkin-dump-cake/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cookiesandcups+%28cookies+and+cups%29<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/09/25/3654.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/09/25/s_3654.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/09/25/3655.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/09/25/s_3655.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />What the pictures don't show is the bite I had to steal... I couldn't wait until bible study to try it. And boy, it is very yummy!<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-78402914061870419382011-08-26T23:23:00.001-05:002011-08-26T23:23:37.374-05:00ToeYou may remember me mentioning that I had a toe problem. It started as a running injury and went very wrong (it's the "ring" toe on my right foot, the little piggy that doesn't get any roast beef). It was a big ordeal- nasty, painful, and a mystery to all medical professionals. Eventually the amazing Dr Jill Jackson-Smith told me it was a wart. Which I really didn't want to admit to people, because I think warts are gross. We did a round of a topical treatment- no dice. We did a round of cantharone (blister venom)- no dice. More topical medicine- no dice. Then Dr Jill had me take a high dosage of dry Vitamin A and zinc. Within a week there was a remarkable difference. It was a miracle. And here is my toe today, almost totally healed. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/26/4453.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/26/s_4453.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Aren't feet weird? <br /><br />Also, I started reading the book Go Dairy Free by Alisa Marie Fleming. I highly suggest this book to anyone needing to go dairy free. Or anyone at all, really. I have been annoying my family all night with texts if dairy facts I find fascinating. <br /><br />Something the book discusses is some of the sneaky names of dairy or sneaky places it can hide. For example:<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/26/4454.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/26/s_4454.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />That's right- the calcium supplement I take because I an't digest milk contains milk. Really???? How aggravating and interesting at the same time. <br /><br />I think I am about to get pretty radical with eliminating dairy from my diet. I am tired of the side effects. <br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-44708516991048598292011-08-24T21:00:00.000-05:002011-08-24T21:00:15.171-05:00HealingI've been thinking a lot lately about healing. I've been waiting for my ankle to heal and waiting for my heart to heal.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3lPOA06ieByTUJPOXXn0vy2so1dZTffJgyVcIbz-0zCfnVp0AEtn1aWII6C6iNEJDbsG5F8uXbQhn4QKvMnhIO_nMcIY9P1SSSPxryxOeeeqH1eJBpni2Ozqbd0nOZkUzMEwGnxWr5Vx6/s1600/ankle+brace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3lPOA06ieByTUJPOXXn0vy2so1dZTffJgyVcIbz-0zCfnVp0AEtn1aWII6C6iNEJDbsG5F8uXbQhn4QKvMnhIO_nMcIY9P1SSSPxryxOeeeqH1eJBpni2Ozqbd0nOZkUzMEwGnxWr5Vx6/s200/ankle+brace.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My walking shoes</div>
<br />
<div class="gallerySlideSmlImgText" clear="" itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="138" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My child, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh.- Proverbs 4:20-22</span></div>
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
<br /></div>
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
Life can get pretty rough. We live in this fallen, awful world. We try to do our best (most of the time) and we still end up hurt. </div>
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
<br /></div>
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
I've been pondering the ways we get through our grief. How do we find hope, comfort, peace?</div>
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
<br /></div>
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress; he sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from destruction. Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wonderful works to humankind.- Psalm 107:19-21</span></div>
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
<br /></div>
<div itxtharvested="0" itxtnodeid="139">
I found this quote on <a href="http://www.calebwilde.com/">http://www.calebwilde.com/</a>- </div>
</div>
<div class="quoteText" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">"You will lose someone you can’t live without,and your heart will be badly broken, and the bad news is that you never completely get over the loss of your beloved. But this is also the good news. They live forever in your broken heart that doesn’t seal back up. And you come through. It’s like having a broken leg that never heals perfectly—that still hurts when the weather gets cold, but you learn to dance with the limp." </span>— <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7113.Anne_Lamott"><span style="color: #666600;">Anne Lamott</span></a> </div>
<br />
I love this quote. Love, love, love. It speaks straight into my soul.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5mIiTWFIzx58CCC4R694T6eFpMEZ8E0HJXVOiCVCe1R0GhSOqFw1eT7tzpCfpebvvYWUbDMzzT7bX6f9ixa02g-Cvt215GNqCjT1R-v_bLFT6ap_kOJXDdyg5JSAOuqxl-6UGuwmlJG0/s1600/broken+heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5mIiTWFIzx58CCC4R694T6eFpMEZ8E0HJXVOiCVCe1R0GhSOqFw1eT7tzpCfpebvvYWUbDMzzT7bX6f9ixa02g-Cvt215GNqCjT1R-v_bLFT6ap_kOJXDdyg5JSAOuqxl-6UGuwmlJG0/s1600/broken+heart.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I've also been thinking about rehab. No, not the kind the late Amy Winehouse sang about. I've been sittting around on my lame ankle waiting for it to heal itself. I've ignored it and ran rough on it, which made it worse. When that didn't work I braced it up and babied it for awhile, which kept my pain at the same level. Next I decided "Oh, screw it" and ran on it. Which made it worse again.<br />
<br />
The heart is the same way. I've ignored the grievances in my heart, pushed them to the side. Or I've pushed too hard, determined to heal myself and get through it.<br />
<br />
I need a physical therapist for my heart...I need to admit my failings and pride and allow God to come in and perform some rehab for me. <br />
<br />
Why do I think I can do it myself? Why do I resist asking the only one who can help to help?Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-76453376129347557922011-08-21T22:22:00.002-05:002011-08-21T22:22:31.267-05:00Girls Gone Wild<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis5zu_f3ddSson3kPMYSYb2busgQ33KiG9AVTKkKhaqkBmLctmz_Jyk65cMyJiUJKCZRy2o3JZp3U1KteY7kCEMSv9N7GZTugvJlHDo_8EHc6j2fQFAkAc20nJ6PYfIQ70tXVy60LZLRYB/s1600/Summer+2011+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis5zu_f3ddSson3kPMYSYb2busgQ33KiG9AVTKkKhaqkBmLctmz_Jyk65cMyJiUJKCZRy2o3JZp3U1KteY7kCEMSv9N7GZTugvJlHDo_8EHc6j2fQFAkAc20nJ6PYfIQ70tXVy60LZLRYB/s320/Summer+2011+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vH49z-BH9WC1LRWTdEUX2XLOceG2PJZ3kUQ35sS8Yg5EC_v-g33pqeJT2P1fB6zpBxT4H3JSsrSBT18YDz6XKkrwjboUu2Wgh-Ze111vWSYjpvNVh21jWiPAU80I1_yj0P6rHGxl68WY/s1600/Summer+2011+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vH49z-BH9WC1LRWTdEUX2XLOceG2PJZ3kUQ35sS8Yg5EC_v-g33pqeJT2P1fB6zpBxT4H3JSsrSBT18YDz6XKkrwjboUu2Wgh-Ze111vWSYjpvNVh21jWiPAU80I1_yj0P6rHGxl68WY/s320/Summer+2011+020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
A friend of mine pointed out that I didn't really "live it up" while my husband was gone. I guess I wasted most of my time being miserable and missing him and forgot that it was my time to go crazy! Ok, maybe not so much crazy...but I should have. So now that he's going to be home in 9 days, I decided to have a girls' night with some of my family. (In the top picture is his cousin, his sister's sister-in-law, his cousin's wife, his sister, and my sister. And I'm the first one in the bottom picture.)<br />
<br />
We went to Hu Hut, which on the Subway-in-other-food-genres idea. It's make your own Mongolian stir-fry. It was good, but I'm not likely to go back super often. But it was fun to try something new.<br />
<br />
After dinner we went back to my house for crafts, nails, and drinks. It was a much needed time with good girlfriends.<br />
<br />
Now I'm realizing my "single" time is about up. So if there are any fun or wild things I need to do, tell me now! :)Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001510771295797588.post-49643980884217407192011-08-12T22:33:00.001-05:002011-08-12T22:33:28.777-05:00Knowing a Baby's Gender at 7 Weeks<a href="http://www.care2.com/causes/would-you-want-to-know-your-babys-gender-at-7-week.html">http://www.care2.com/causes/would-you-want-to-know-your-babys-gender-at-7-week.html</a><br />
<br />
The above is a link to a blog discussing the new JAMA article regarding non-invasive gender testing that can be done as early as seven weeks in the baby's gestation. Wow. That's early. Many women don't even know that they are pregant at seven weeks. How amazing it would be to go in for your first doctor's appointment and be told "Congrats, you're preganant, and it's a ______!". I think it would be cool to immediately begin calling the baby by the right name (if you had decided on a name already) or begin to decorate the nursery. If a pregnancy happened to end in loss, perhaps it would be easier for some to mourn for a child with a known gender? (Lee and I decided that our baby was a girl, and that helped us tremendously). How crazy is this new test? Of course if I had my way, I wouldn't find out the gender at all until the baby came out, though my planner of a husband would never let that happen. And I do think it seems kind of fun to have to wait until the baby either gets boy parts or girl parts to know what it is. So perhaps I wouldn't even take advantage of this new test?<br />
<br />
I know that it's been brought up as a great way to find out if further testing is needed. Since some genetic disorders are more likely to affect one gender over another, I think it would be great to find out what the baby is and possibly avoid further, dangerous testing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTuREjgBJRanEH0w0d6p1QNQOlHxkvHG0SQKNL1qDQ7o5RqbXI6d5tw0apW-5pauUJqHhRISVaV97zyFiGjJDVPh1NT0POFKqoZtJqHA_XBK7FoHDXMM5Xni8GVkwWj1q5Y6c9hTmvdh3/s1600/seven+week+fetus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTuREjgBJRanEH0w0d6p1QNQOlHxkvHG0SQKNL1qDQ7o5RqbXI6d5tw0apW-5pauUJqHhRISVaV97zyFiGjJDVPh1NT0POFKqoZtJqHA_XBK7FoHDXMM5Xni8GVkwWj1q5Y6c9hTmvdh3/s1600/seven+week+fetus.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fetus at Seven Weeks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But... It brings up a lot of controversy. I'm not usually one to blog about controversial issues, but as my blog isn't that highly read, I feel like I can get away with it. Also, all of the blogs I have found concerning this subject so far are pro-choice, giving permission to abort the baby based only on gender.<br />
<br />
I can't agree with that. Abortion is a subject that hurts my hard terribly to begin with (remember that I am pro-adoption, believing it to be a Christian duty to take care of the widows and orphans per James 1:27). I'm not going to argue about abortion or even really speak on it here as not to offend anyone. But I think that this research would provide more weight behind anti-abortion campaigns as it shows that there is life at conception. At seven weeks a baby is a boy or a girl. Not just a faceless fetus, but a child with a gender. That's amazing. It just blows my mind.<br />
<br />
A lot of the blogs on this subject keep mentioning pro-choice. That term is hard for me. Because pro-choice means to me the choice to not have sex, or the choice to have protected sex. If you remain abstinent, there is no chance of unwanted pregnancy. If you don't want a baby, don't have sex. There is a choice. If you have sex, have protected sex. Most of the time, this means you won't have a baby. But sometimes the various forms of birth control fail (especially when used incorrectly). I guess I just don't understand how "pro-choice" is a good choice. A good choice for whom? For the mother? Because I don't see how the choice is good for the child who is not allowed to be born.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBYsTeWmsDPmCxhcf-caRQl3gZ2SsmwKxaKFdoRZLZG7vs7GMsDggugLKlR4KjRbg561c5YmuhhDtwHMu8WdCH3qISMGusHFItM4CcgE-Q51vjEVOLTx11AU0bWALnjF1w0Vp6zHj9DpA/s1600/Adoption.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBYsTeWmsDPmCxhcf-caRQl3gZ2SsmwKxaKFdoRZLZG7vs7GMsDggugLKlR4KjRbg561c5YmuhhDtwHMu8WdCH3qISMGusHFItM4CcgE-Q51vjEVOLTx11AU0bWALnjF1w0Vp6zHj9DpA/s320/Adoption.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Sometimes I just want to tell people "Don't have an abortion, I'll take your baby." And that's actually true. If someone came to me and said "Please take my child or I'll have an abortion" I would do anything possible to get that child for myself or another safe, loving home. I totally know that some people aren't ready to be parents (though again I say that if you're not ready for the consequence of a baby, don't have sex), some people end up with unwanted pregnancies and simply can't handle it. <br />
<br />
Perhaps I am being naive. Perhaps my religion is clouding the "rational" part of my brain. I just don't understand. Can't understand. Don't want to understand?<br />
<br />
Like I said, I don't want to argue. Please don't think that I am passing judment or condemning anyone or their choices or beliefs. This is just a subject that is very close to my heart and very hard for me. I've written a lot, so I must think I have something to say about it!Katherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17562926906261307954noreply@blogger.com0