Haiti Bound!!

The time has finally come! Tomorrow morning I will be on a plane, heading to West Palm Beach, Florida before hoping a plane to Pignon, Haiti. I am thoroughly excited for the opportunity that lies ahead of me and the rest of my mission group.

Around Christmas time, my grandpa came to me with the idea to serve in Haiti with a group from his church. It didn't take long for me to realize how great of an opportunity this is, so I latched on to the idea with little hesitation. Our group is in charge of constructing desks for one of the local schools. Along with this, we hope to reach out to the people, learning about their culture and lifestyle. Honestly, I'm not sure what to expect, but I am going into this opportunity with an open mind and open heart. I am ready to learn and love freely. 

People have asked me if I am nervous or apprehensive about the trip, and I really am not.  I know I am in the hands of good people. I know that my heart is in the right place. I am nothing but excited for this adventure. Now, hopefully I can sleep tonight! 

Programming note: I will be unable to blog while I'm gone (relax, don't cry). I will have access to a computer, but this will be rather limited. I will miss my blogging buddies. I cannot wait to share this experience when I'm back! Take care!

She Runs

I saw this commercial yesterday, and I really like it. I just wanted to share it, but check back later because I have more to share today!

T-t-t-uesday :-)

The Universal Language

As you all know, I am going to be leaving for Haiti in a few days. During one of our meetings, they gave us a some different words in phrases common in Haiti. Obviously, I'm not very at all familiar with Haitian Creole, so I plan on just smiling a lot. Isn't a huge grin part of the universal language? 

What better way to kick off a motivating Monday that with a few thoughts on smiling.... Enjoy! :-)

Bahaha!

Marilyn knows best.

...because there always is a reason.

:-)

Hope everyone's day is going wonderful!

The Missing Passport

It has been a busy day for this banana and her family. I planned to come home yesterday to spend some time with my family before my trip to Haiti (my flight is Wednesday morning). Today started off pretty normal. I was feeling great after a batch of applesauce pancakes and a refreshing run outside. Hard to believe the beautiful weather in February!

I was sorting through a few papers when my mom asked if I had my passport. We soon realized that there was a misunderstanding, and my passport was no where to be found. After freaking out a little, yelling, and a few tears, my parents and I started to rummage through papers, searching anywhere and everywhere we could think of. The next step was to drive back to my house to dig through my bedroom. I won't take you through each antagonizing moment, but we didn't find it.

The ride back to my parents' house was pretty quiet. We were clearly nervous and unsure of what to do next. Mom and I talked about how this was a lesson that we would soon learn from. We were learning patience and responsibility. After arriving home, we continued to look in all the same places yet again. You could cut the tension with a knife. Finally, I decided to lay down and pray.

I talked to God. I realized that I had lost sight of why I was called to Haiti. I knew that God has placed me on this path to be a light to those I meet. I will be able to spend time with my Grandpa as we embrace the adventures of another culture. Losing my passport was a way to humble myself. After a few more tears and prayers, I realized I needed to go outside and get some fresh air. I walked to my car, thinking I would search under the seats, knowing my dad had already. I sorted through my CDs, and there it was... my passport.

I ran inside my house, shaking and crying. My mom was there to greet me with a huge hug. God had answered my prayers, and we all learned along the way. Never in my life have I been so touched by a "God thing." I am incredibly blessed, excited, and anxious for my adventure. God truly has a plan for me. What an awesome gift I have to look forward to.

Call Me Creepy

The other day I was at work, sitting by the bar, listening to the conversation of two men. Before you go jumping to conclusions, they were at least ten bar stools apart from each other, and clearly they had never met previously; therefore, I wasn't being too creepy. Plus, they were talking about golf courses in Iowa, so it wasn't like the conversation was private.

I found myself listening, nodding my head, and making eye contact with them as they spoke. Now you can call me creepy. Once I realized what I was doing, I started to act busy by "cleaning" various items behind the bar. I really wanted to contribute to the conversation, but I'm pretty sure they would not have appreciated my input on the 2005 9-hole course of the year that I am familiar with.

Then just yesterday, I was substitute teaching and a student was pulled out in the hall by the principal to be scolded for one reason or another. The class was small, and one of other students stood up to listen in on what was going on, so she stuck her ear out the door. The worst part is, I kind of wanted to know. I guess that just means I'm human, right?

Why are we so interested in the conversations we are not a part of? We strive on the drama of others, hoping that it is "worse" than ours, right? It's not like I sit right next to someone who is whispering about the latest gossip, but if people are talking loud enough, they have to kind of expect it.

People really don't realize how loud they talk. I was with a few girlfriends the other night. We were gossiping and "catching up" on who knows what. I know that we were speaking loud enough for those around us to listen in, but I suppose that is the risk we take.

When I got the idea to write this blog, I didn't realize it would come across so kooky. Sorry, but I guess you can just call me creepy. Enjoy your Saturday..... And stay out of trouble ;-)

Why We Love Adele

Unless you have been living under a rock for the past few months, y’all should know that Adele is the British singing sensation that has taken America, no wait, the world, by storm. And in case you need a few reasons to love her, here they are:

Her confidence. People have made comments about her weight. She has responded by saying, "I've never wanted to look like models on the covers of magazines. I represent the majority of women, and I'm very proud of that." She is upfront and honest about who she is and what she stands for.

Her dirty mouth. Adele likes to swear, and she’s not afraid to show it. Of course, I love this. After undergoing throat surgery, she was ordered not to talk. She was unable to sing and speak, but she was most upset about not being able to swear. Man, I love her.

Her make-up. I love her smoky eyes. I have tried time and time again to achieve this look, but it always seems to end up looking the same. Ugh, Adele, I need some lessons.

Her words. Adele openly sings about losing the love of her life. Many people are able relate to the lyrics of her songs. Her willingness to share her feelings is admirable.

Her voice. Oh wow. If you need any reason at all to love her, just enjoy her performance at this year’s Grammy Awards. Love. Love. Love.

TGIF!!! 

Giggle Pants

How annoying is the person that calls you out for having a bad day? "Someone's wearing her crabby pants." In your mind, you want to strangle that person, but outside, you fake a smile. What if we got rid of our crabby pants for a while? What if we decided to slip on a pair of giggle pants instead?

Lately, I have found myself participating in some serious belly laughs. I've laughed until I cried, and it feels great! Laughter is more than just a good feeling. There are many health benefits that come along with finding humor in life. I read an article from Mayo Clinic. Knock yourselves out:

1. Stress reliever. It's not hard to believe that laughter can decrease your levels of stress. It cleans out and refreshes from the inside, out. It fires up your body and cools down the stress levels.

2. Soothes tension. Your muscles begin to relax as your start to giggle. It's like a free massage :-)

3. Stimulates organs. Laughter helps you breathe, increasing the flow of oxygen. It also enhances the performance of other organs, such as the lungs and heart.

4. Improves overall immune system and relieves pain. Laughing helps produce nature painkillers.

5. Increased personal satisfaction. Connecting to people can be much easier when laughing is present. It is also easier to deal with difficult situations with a sense of humor.

How about that? We all learned something new today. So, go ahead. Get your giggle on!

Wisdom from Mom

We all gain bits of wisdom and knowledge along the way. I have quotes from teachers and professors jotted down in all of my old planners. If I was smart, I would have put them all in the same place. Instead, I am left with a fuzzy memory when it comes to recalling many of the precious pieces of advice for all walks of life.

The other day I received an interesting piece of advice from my mom. Sarah and I were sitting at the kitchen table, listening to music and catching up on the latest gossip when Mom walked in:

"Girls, you know you should always wear nice underwear when you leave the house, right?" (Hello, random)

Sarah and I looked at each other and died laughing. "What are you talking about Mom?"

She replied, "Well, my mom always told me that if I ever got in an accident and the ambulance crew had to cut off my underwear, I better make sure it was a nice pair."

(crickets)

She went on, "I just thought that since my mom told me, I should tell you."

"Thanks... I guess." The three of us continued to laugh together about the strange and random conversation. In fact, I'm still smiling as I recall this wisdom from Mom. The worst part is that I do think about it when I get ready for the day. Great, I'm scarred for life.

Mine are black, if you need to know ;-)

That's a Wrap

I love girls with cute beanies, head pieces, and wraps; however, I never feel like I can pull them off. The occasional bobbie pin here and there is just not the same. Assuming I will be traveling to Haiti in just a short week, I realized that I have to figure something out with my hair. I don't want to seem like I'm high maintenance by busting out my teasing comb and gel, so I have been coming up with a few alternatives.

Yesterday I stopped at Target to pick up a bandana. I have always wanted to wear these when I workout, so I thought it would be perfect. Except there were no bandanas in sight. Instead, I found this:

After playing around with it, I realized that I really like it. It's versatile and trendy - my two favorite things. 

I also found a website with a how-to for summer hair wraps. Check it out! 

A little something like this... (pardon the how cheesy this is)

That's a wrap! Happy Fat Tuesday!

Nike Knowledge

In the wake of another Motivation Monday, who better to turn to than Nike? Not only do I love to sport all the gear, but these commercials and print ads send chills up my spine. When you want to make excuses, give up, or fail, reconsider and look to Nike for knowledge and strength.

Three simple words filled with impact and meaning.

Learn. Be better.

Take control.

It's never too late to start. 

Want to be like Mike? 

Boy do I feel like throwing on my Nike track jacket and hitting the open road... And then hitting up the Nike outlet... Hummm.... Enjoy your Monday!

My Kinda Party

Yes, I'm from Iowa. Yes, I love country music. Last night I went to the Jason Aldean concert with 22,000 of my closest friends. The place was jam packed with flannel shirts and cowboy boots. My brother got me tickets as my Christmas present, and I am sure glad he did :-)

I'm off to do some serious lounging today... Probably have to make a visit to good ole Redbox. Enjoy your day of rest!

Giggle Time

I used to watch the stand up comedians on Comedy Central. I found myself giggling out loud quite a bit, which is always very refreshing. I started to really love Gerry Dee. He's a former teacher, and everything he says about teaching is spot on. Enjoy :-)

I have a feeling your still smiling...

So, I can't help myself. Here's another...

Stupid Songs

I have pretty sporadic taste in music. My iPod varies from country and oldies to hip hop and acoustic. I am not one of those people that claims to know a song way before everyone else. I don't call out bands on being posers if their music goes mainstream. If a song has good lyrics and a catchy beat, then I'm fan. 

Of course, there are a few songs and artists that make me cringe. If you want me to sprint out of a room or jump out of a car, then play the following stupid songs:

1. The Cho-Cho Train. I'm not claiming to be a good dancer, but I've got more moves than hanging on some stranger's back at a wedding to the beat of a train. Not my thing. Do you realize how annoying the song is? Do you realize how dumb people look linked to one another, chugging like a cho-cho train? Stop it. 

2. The Chicken Dance. For many of the same reasons, this song is ridiculous. Some person without any rhythm thought if they stood and waddled like a chicken then he or she would fit in? I guess I'm confused. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. Someone should really teach these people how to dougie. 

3. Any song by Nickelback. Being one of the most hated rock bands doesn't happen for no reason. For me, I feel like the lyrics of their songs are very similar and often times shallow. Their sound is loud and obnoxious. All I know is that if I want to beat my head against the wall every time they come on the radio, then it's just not good. Shallow lyric example: "My best friend gave me the best advice. He said each day is a gift and not a given right." Umm... thank you for that, because I've never heard that saying before. Next.

4. Red Solo Cup by Toby Keith. Honestly, this song makes me so mad that I don't even want to write about it. Stupid. 

5. Whip My Hair by Willow Smith. What's the point here? That an 11-year-old throws around her dreadlocks for fun? I really shouldn't be surprised that this drives me insane, mostly because I can't stand Will Smith either. Just don't get this song stuck in your head, because it won't be leaving you for a very long while. 

I could go on and on, but it's Friday. I don't want to spoil your weekend with these stupid songs. Find a good Pandora station and enjoy some good music on this lovely day. TGIF!!!!

Thankful Thursday

A few years ago, I noticed that every week my mom would say, "It's thankful Thursday!" Ever since then, I have latched on to this idea. Happy Thankful Thursday :-)

There is always something in which we can be thankful. What are you thankful for today?

The Art of Backcombing

I do my hair every day. Of course, some days are better than others, but I always pay attention to my "lovely lady locks." Part of my routine involves backcombing, or "teasing." It adds volume and life to my otherwise flat and thin hair. Today I would like to share some tools and tips in the art of backcombing.

The importance in the right tools and products are essential. Some of my favorites:

Kenra does it again: Thermal Styling Spray. I spray this as I flat iron for some added texture and hold.

Backcombing Brush. This is good for all types of hair, but especially long and thick. It definitely does the trick!

Teasing Comb. This works better for short, thin hair. You are able to really reach all layers while styling. 

I found some great tips from Hair Boutique.com. Here are just a few that I think are quite important:

1. Divide and conquer. It works best when you separate your hair into smaller pieces before backcombing. By taking 1-2 inch sections, your hair will have a much fuller appearance.

2. It's okay to be a little dirty. Hair that is freshly washed is often shiny and hard to style. I like to add products, such as the Kenra Thermal Styling Spray, to "dirty up" my hair before backcombing. (Confession: Sometimes I even rub hand lotion through my strands.)

3. Be nice. It's important not to tug and pull on your strands. The last thing you want are split ends and knots throughout your hair. Be gentle.

4. Dry hair only. Backcombing doesn't work unless your hair is completely dry.

Backcombing really helps create the fullness that many women strive for when styling. I will never forget when I was introduced to this go-to look. I have learned the art of backcombing, and I will never go back.

The Mushy Holiday

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Just another excuse to fill our bellies with candy and chocolate hearts. I have always been a pretty big fan of the conversation hearts.

Along with many others, I really feel like Valentine's Day is a little silly. It's been said to be a "Hallmark holiday," which I tend to agree with. On the other hand, there is always a reason to celebrate!

As a kid, I remember being excited for Valentine's day. We would have a party in our elementary classrooms. It was always fun to swap Barbie and G.I. Joe Valentines. I would always lay out a pink, purple, and red outfit the night before. I guess I just wanted to be festive :-)

One of my favorite Valentine's Day memories is when I came home from school to find a single rose on my pillow. The card had my dad's signature. It's always nice to be thought of.

All mushiness aside, I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Monday's Math

I am an English person. I enjoy the flexibility and creativity of writing and interpreting literature. With that said, math is not my forte. My mind simply does not work like a mathematician. I always felt like "math people" were frustrated when trying to help me. It was like they were saying, "Just do it. It's not that hard." Well, I found a website called that displays my kind of math. Here are a few of my favorites: 

Don't we all want as much space as possible? Please don't divide it.

Nights of restless sleep tend to add time when I wish it would just subtract. 

Great. According to this equation, I am super nuts.

Can it really be this simple?

Humm... doesn't this get your mind moving?

Yes, this I understand. 

Don't think too hard today. Stick with this new kind of math :-)

Genuine Happiness

A happy day for all of my blogging buddies :-)

The Friday Effect

I’m not sure y’all have recognized this crazy epidemic. Have you ever stopped to really assess the mood of people on a Friday? Think about it. Maybe it’s the jeans; maybe it’s the thought of a cold beer or hot tottie that awaits them come 5:00. Whatever it may be, it’s important you realize how contagious the spirit really is. 

Some things you should watch out for:

Smiles. I know you don’t see them much throughout the week, but beware. There will be a lot of these babies thrown at you when you mention weekend plans and getaways. Do not be afraid, smiling can be quite fun sometimes.

Conversations with strangers. Small talk can be kind of annoying at times, but I also find these conversations to be quite rewarding. It’s always good to make connections with people. Even if it is just about the lack of snow on the ground, sometimes it’s just nice to get your jaw moving.

Lack of productivity. I find that most people come in to work/school on Friday with a very short agenda. It’s as if we don’t want to overexert ourselves. The best part is, once the list is complete, it’s time to goof off a little. The important part is to still look busy without actually doing anything. Sneaky, huh? This can include cleaning your desk or running worthless errands around the office/school. Do you really need new staples and paper clips from the supply room?

Beware of how friendly people tend to get towards the end of the week. Next Friday, be cautious of this thing called the Friday Effect. As we move on into Saturday, keep the smiles and conversations coming. Most importantly, don’t feel the need to be in the least bit productive. It’s the freakin’ weekend baby!

Back at It

Well blogging buddies, I'm spending some time playing the substitute teacher today. In fact, I am a high school science teacher today. I would be lying if I remembered a lick of Chemistry or Physics. I don't dare tell my students they will never use this in the "real" world.

I have to say though, it fells really great to be back at it. I was a little bit nervous that I wouldn't remember the names of students or have lost any bit of authority that I may have possessed prior to today. I will tell y'all, I've still got it. Can I get a whoop, whoop!?!

While substitute teaching isn't really teaching, it still feels great to be back in the school setting. All of the days where I felt a little out of place or off-kilter do not seem to matter when I am back at it. I can't believe that I forgot how much food teenagers consume. Holy buckets! Talk about a bottomless pit! Then there is the lack of filter. Yes, I'm standing five feet from you. Yes, I can hear everything you are saying. Come on kidlets! Don't you ever forget....

Also, for your viewing pleasure...

Giggle, giggle... have a happy Friday!

Pink Phones and Zit Stickers

If you ask me, a carefree childhood should be the only option. I hear too many stories about kids that are forced to deal with adult situations at a young age. It seems as if society is asking kids to grow up too fast, but what for? I miss the days of forts made of bed sheets and pillows. I wish I could sprawl out on the family room floor with thousands of Legos in hopes of building a fire station or hospital. The biggest problem was figuring out what Barbie was going to wear on her date with Ken. He was such an easy man to please; after all, he was always smiling.

I was lucky to have grown up in a neighborhood with kids my age. The more kids, the more varieties of toys and adventures. Some of my fondest memories with my girlfriends were spent playing board games. I’m not talking about Battleship or even Twister; I’m talking about Dream Phone, Girl Talk, and Mall Madness. You know… girl stuff.

I’ll never forget the Christmas when my Grandma Nelson got me Dream Phone. For those of you who don’t know, it’s the game with the giant pink phone used to call “friends” to try to figure out who “likes” you. Of course, Steve was the hottie, but anytime I heard, “You’re right! I really like you!” my whole face smiled. In fact, I still try to get my sister to play it with me when I go home. Key word: try.

Girl Talk was another popular game with a similar motive. The weird thing is, all that I really remember about the game where the zit stickers you had to put on for some reason or another. Why can’t real life zits just be stickers?

Then, of course, there was Mall Madness. I can still hear the computer telling me which stores to place the sale and clearance signs in. Man, that game rocked. “There is a sale at the chi-chin store” (it was supposed to be kitchen… never sounded like it).

These games were sure fun, but eventually we all graduate to Trivial Pursuit and Scrabble. Games get more difficult, just like life. However, it’s always fun to remember pink phones and zit stickers. 

Counting and Discounting

It's easy to get caught up in someone we are not. Sometimes I find myself living in the past or the future, forgetting about who I am today. I tear down who I am, because I envisioned myself somewhere else. I forget to praise myself for the person I am today.

"But I'm learning who you've been ain't who you gotta be."

Each day is a new start; we are promised the day ahead to do be better than we were the day before.

Instead of discounting the person we are, it's important to count our blessings. We must reward ourselves for learning from past mistakes. Looking forward doesn't mean living in the future. It's a reminder that good days are ahead. The opportunities are endless, and more importantly, we are deserving of these moments.

"Better Than I Used to Be" - Tim McGraw

No more discounting. Things have worked out this way for a reason. Practicing patience and believing that something good will come are the best ways to live life. Focus on counting blessings, and do not discount losses.

Mind Reading Music

I love my computer. I love the sound of the keys as my fingers grace across the 'home row.' There is nothing better than finding a good website filled with tons of interesting information. I sound like a complete nerd, but seriously what did I do before my Macbook? It's more than a tool for writing and researching; it's my favorite avenue to good music. 

Music changes people; it fits every mood. When I am feeling hopeless, I turn to Tenth Avenue North to uplift me. Sometimes I want to pump up my spirits, which can be done with Britney or Rihanna. For smooth listening I go one of two routes: country or Adele. My newest obsession (thanks to my friend Ellen) is Sarah Bareilles. Oh. My. Goodness. She has a beautiful way of exerting calming words in each song. Needless to say, she is my top station on Pandora.

For those of you who don't know, Pandora is an online radio station that you are able to personalize. I find it funny how some days the station is right on. It's playing everything I want to hear; I just can't get enough. Then there are days that I just can't find the right beat. You are only allowed so many 'skips' in one setting, and it is frustrating when I exhaust all of my musical options.

Overall, I love Pandora. Lately, it has been ready my mind. It's like it knows what I want to hear before I even do. This mind reading music is just the way I like it! 

Here's some easy listening for your Tuesday morning. Enjoy!

Take a Second

Good Motivation Morning! I'm sure after hours of football, chicken wings, and beer, y'all could use some serious motivation today :-)

I'm coming off a great weekend that I spent with wonderful friends. My friend, Ashley, and I shared quite a few belly laughs. She makes me feel like myself, which is so important to me. In some ways, she grounds me; she makes me believe in second chances. Things don't always go the way we believe they should. Then a second (or third, or fourth) chance is waiting for us; it is planned for us. Take it.

This morning, I want to take a second to believe in second chances:

Embrace life's uncertainties.

All we can do is believe there is something better.

Just as we can't be afraid to fail, we also can't be scared of picking it up and moving forward.

Everybody.

There is a right time for everything. 

Sometimes we just need to take a second a reflect and refocus. Who gave you a second chance? What are you going to do with it?

Ever Get That Feeling?

I had a really good day yesterday. It all started with a sweaty trip to the gym, which always gets me in the best mood. I cleaned up and spent my afternoon hanging out with my mom's 3rd graders. If you ever want to feel loved, visit an elementary classroom. Kids have so much love to give and have no problem showcasing it; each one is such a blessing.

I was able to read one of my favorite books to them:

They were hilarious.

Last night, I went to my sister's basketball games. While I may not be super competitive, there is something about basketball that changes me. I love it. I can't shut my mouth, and I find myself bouncing up and down in my seat. The girls played AWESOME! It was so fun to watch them play together. They were moving their feet, playing as a team, and making their free-throws (incredible, right?).

After the game, Sarah came up to me and said, "That was fun!" Yes, winning is fun, but even more so, playing together as a team feels right. I remember the feeling of coming off a good win. It's like you are right where you are supposed to be.

On the drive home, I got that feeling. I was able to share the game with my sister and my dad (who happens to be the assistant coach). Watching the girls play well together and the coaches smiling and high-fiving is an awesome feeling.

Last night I was right where I was supposed to be... with my mom, watching my sister and dad :-) Go Dogs!

Drop Crotch

I’m not sure if y’all have been noticing men’s fashion trends lately. While I have not been shopping in the men’s department at Von Maur, I do read about fashion trends quite a bit.

Recently “The Today Show” did a piece about the evolution of men’s fashion. It is seemingly more acceptable for men to focus on their look - to look a little "metro". 

As I was watching the piece, I realized that one almost needs a separate dictionary just for the world of men’s fashion.

Murse: the male purse

Mandals: men’s sandals

Mankini: a male bikini (gross)

Clearly if you add a masculine “m” on the beginning of a word, it becomes a part of men’s fashion.

The latest to come on the scene: the drop crotch. We’ve all seen how men drop their pants, showcasing their preference of underwear. Apparently a droopy crotch is what the ladies are supposed to be loving. Ummm… count me in?

Now the drop crotch trend is sliding over to women’s fashion. This is absurd to me. I hate when my pants are slipping and sliding (which is pretty much every day that I am not wearing leggings). So, what do you think? Hot or not?

Does this really look comfortable? I'm leaning towards "no."

On a slightly different note. Fun Fact Friday: Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream", written in 1590, was the first recorded use of the word 'swagger'. 

Maybe drop crotch pants are the latest form of swagger. Just maybe. 

Stay the Same

It’s always fun to break out old photo albums, birthday cards, and notes from friends growing up. It can also be quite an adventure to snoop through high school yearbooks. It’s interesting to see how people have changed and wonder where they are now.

In middle school, we had a year “book” that I would say resembled more of a pamphlet than anything. Either way, it was a great place for people to draw pictures of body parts (if you know what I mean) and doodle hearts around people’s heads. Ohhh, to be young again. There was a popular saying to write on the creases of the pages, “They’ve signed your front, they’ve signed your back. This is where I’ll sign your crack.” Nice, huh?

As we grew older, the messages became more thoughtful and nostalgic. Senior year in particular was a time to wish friends luck as they started a new chapter in their lives.

Creating memories is a part of life, but I have recently forgotten that memories are not all of life. I always found it silly that people wrote, “never change,” in yearbooks. We are constantly changing, and I am thankful for that. Can you imagine being the same person you were as a senior in high school? We are meant to change; we are meant to evolve.

I was listening to the song lyric, “I know my heart will never be the same, but I’m telling myself I’ll be okay.” Everyone is changing and leaving lasting impressions on our hearts. It is important not to get caught up in the memories. If we do that, then we forget to move forward. We are forever stuck reliving a life that has passed. I challenge you (and myself) to not stay the same. Embrace the exciting changes, promises, and uncertainties of life.

She's Still My Girl

As you may have already heard, Paula Deen recently announced that she was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in 2008. This comes as no surprise to health advocates that have watched her pour butter and cream over dishes. She makes it no secret that her fryer is one of her favorite tools. While this adds to her southern charm, it obviously stirs up health concerns.

I have always been a HUGE fan of Paula Deen. Maybe you even remember my ode to her? Whenever she belts out her contagious laugh, I can’t help but smile. While I’ve never attempted to cook any of her foods, I must say that I enjoy even pretending to sample at the end of the show. They look delicious - almost as delicious as her two sons ;-)

I ran across the “Paula Deen’s Most Outrageous Recipes” the other day.

A few that topped the list:

The Lady's Brunch Burger - a donut as  the bun?!?

Fried Butter Balls - frying butter... yuck.

Peanut Butter Cheese Fudge - PB and cheese may be a little extreme.

Deep Fried Mac n' Cheese - no comment necessary.

A couple of my friends have asked me what I think about the whole Diabetes controversy. Honestly, Paula will always be my girl. She seems to have an amazing attitude towards life, so I’m sure she will take this bump in the road, turn it into something good, and laugh on.