sleepeybear's spot

you have to smell this!

2012-02-13T00:14:00.005-05:00

I highly recommend tasting, too - but what I absolutely love about this recipe for sweet potato french toast sticks is the "delightful sugary goodness" smell that drifted through my apartment while these baked. My mouth was watering! (Wildcat Guy's would have been, too - if he wasn't coming down with the same cold I just got over.)

Another plus was how easy these were to make. Chop, mix, dredge, bake. (This is something I really appreciate about a lot of her recipes - even with multiple steps, she keeps things pretty simple.)

Now, I have to admit - this recipe yields a lot. As in, the entire baking sheet was full of sliced-up, dredged-in-magic sticks of sweet potatoes. So I expected there would be leftovers, especially since I was serving them as a side item to eggs and bacon. (Breakfast for dinner, anyone??)

Buuuutttt...then we started eating them. And we realized how delicious they are. Texturally, they are a dead-on match for french toast; and flavor-wise, they are good. So good that we may have eaten the entire batch. Ooops.

I highly recommend these and in fact, if I'm ever in the mood for french toast in the future, I would consider making these instead. Yum!

this week was good because of...

2012-02-12T23:11:00.007-05:00

...Wildcat Guy's 29th birthday celebration.

...doing my best to spoil him on his special day.

...the crab rangoon roll at Malone's. Yes, I realize it's a steakhouse - but this was hands-down the best thing on my plate.

...the treat of a nicer dinner out from time to time.

...having just enough of my sense of taste back that I could enjoy our meal.

...the satisfaction of watching him open and delight in the gifts I purchased.

...my successful attempt at a layer cake.

...an afternoon to play at my scrapbook table (and make Valentine's Day cards).

...the "Black Tie Optional" color on my toe nails.

...the pedicure-friendly socks that kept my feet warm after my pedicure on a very cold Saturday night.

...relaxing in the massage chair after a somewhat-long Saturday at work.

...a bowl of french onion soup and good conversation with "the girls from the office."

...being pleased with where my budget is for the month.

...winter weather at last! (Don't get me wrong, the mild temps were nice - but a little winter is always nice, too.)

...participating in this reflective project.

...having dinner made by Wildcat Guy.

...his desire to help out when I'm feeling sick, and his willingness to remind me to take it easy (because he knows how difficult that is for me).

...an amazing reflection that really connected with my heart - especially her comment about being short-tempered with loved ones.

...this gorgeous piece of art. (And yes, I think I've found a new blog to delight in.)

...resting with Gru while Wildcat Guy cooked.

...respecting my body's limits while it was ill. (That sick day was exactly what I needed!)

...a (mostly) accurate list of the best Super Bowl commercials from last Sunday.

...cup after cup of homemade chocolate pudding. (And by homemade, I mean from the box, not from scratch.)

...time to work on lots of photo catch-up.

...the all-around adorableness of my fluffy kitty.

...an enjoyable movie that fit its genre perfectly.

...the fun labels on the Cuties clementines I bought for Wildcat Guy.

...a wi$e, well-planned trip to the grocery store.

...good conversations with students - some serious, some fun. (The conversations, not the students.)

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: The Blue Bear by Lynn Schooler

a day in my life - birthday edition

2012-02-11T21:41:00.008-05:00

When I heard that one of my favorite scrapbook artists was hosting "A Day in the Life" this week (a variation of her fun "Week in the Life" feature), I knew immediately which day I wanted to document - Friday. Wildcat Guy's birthday. So here's my day - or rather, our day...

8:15 am - good morning! Okay, so maybe the alarm started going off at 7:50, but hitting the snooze button a couple of times is pretty standard around here.

8:42 am - I know, I know - so much sugar in this breakfast of OJ and chocolate pudding. But on the tail end of a wicked cold, this was what sounded good.

8:43 am - pausing for a moment to be thankful for all the clean dishes that Wildcat Guy did the night before.

8:54 am - Time to bake a birthday cake!

~11 am - This was the first day all week I'd done my hair; and the first day since Tuesday that I felt even halfway normal.

11:06 am - I had to document some paint damage a resident left behind. Apparently, someone didn't know how to remove those temporary adhesive strips properly.

11:11 am - Gru couldn't decide whether to be happy I was home for the morning, or annoyed that me being home was interfering with his sleep.

11:21 am - Wildcat Guy was very specific - he wanted a yellow cake with milk chocolate frosting.

So that's what he got - with a few sprinkles on top for fun.

12:39 pm - Lunchtime reading - a little bit of magazine, and a little bit of book.

12:57 pm - After taking Thursday off as a sick day, I was thankful that there wasn't too much "catch up" to do at work.

1:10 pm - Listening to some good music on Pandora made the afternoon go by quickly.

5:26 pm - When I got home from work, I took extra care getting dressed and ready for his birthday dinner.

After being a sick mess for the past two days, it felt wonderful to look pretty for my love, who took such good care of me.

Also fun? Wearing my "new" heels again. I had to make sure I took a picture for my friend Catt, who was not happy about the toe-only view of these heels last time.

5:34 pm - setting out his presents and birthday cake on the counter and realizing that I unintentionally picked sprinkles that match the wrapping paper

Aaaaand right after that, the battery in my point-and-shoot died. Died. D'oh! Thankfully, I was able to pull out my DSLR to use for a little while.

5:39 pm - Hello, birthday boy! I don't think he was expecting to be greeted with a camera - but I don't think he was entirely surprised, either.

Time to open birthday gifts! He seemed to like what I got for him (a movie, a cover for the Nook Color he received for Christmas, and gift card for a nice pair of sunglasses).

5:55 pm - He just couldn't resist having a little piece of cake before we went to dinner.

6:46 pm - Thankfully, my little camera's battery charged just enough that I could take the camera with us to dinner.

7:54 pm - For his birthday dinner, Wildcat Guy chose the same steakhouse we went to last year. (Something about really good steaks?) The spinach and artichoke dip - served with fried lasagna noodles - was also tasty.

10:05 pm - We had a little bit of time between getting home from dinner and him leaving for work. Eating some cake, then relaxing on the couch seemed like a nice option.

10:30 pm - There was no way I was letting him leave all that extra cake at my place, though. I packed up most of it for him to take.

11:42 pm - The rest of the night was pretty low-key for me and kitty. There was some TV, some computer, a few minutes down in the lobby talking with students...and not a lot else.

12:17 am - Another full day draws to a close with my nightly devotional and a text message to my love.

It's always fun to immerse myself in this type of documentation - to make the effort to pay attention to the little details throughout the day - but it was especially fun on this day. His day. Being his birthday, a lot of things probably would have been recorded anyways, but I also like having captured details that represent what this week was like.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: The Blue Bear by Lynn Schooler

little bites of yumminess

2012-02-06T23:28:00.002-05:00

Last month, I'd seen this delicious-sounding recipe and knew I had to make it. Because seriously? Avocado, cream cheese and salsa? How could that go wrong?! In fact, as I made the little mounds on each puff pastry square, it was hard not to eat all the filling on its own.

But I exercised restraint (and okay - maybe licked the spoons when I was done), and all of the pastry squares were properly filled and baked. And even though they took more time to prepare than our normal choice of Mexican or Spanish rice, these made a great side dish for our soft tacos last night.

In fact, the only thing I need to keep playing with is the salsa. I'm not sure if I need to use a spicier salsa, or perhaps one with a more intense flavor - but the brand I used (one we sometimes enjoy on our tacos and such) got completely lost in the gooey delight of the avocado and cream cheese. I don't think Wildcat Guy minded, but I really like the juxtaposition of salsa and avocado, so I noticed its almost non-presence. My quick fix was to spoon more salsa on top of the squares as I ate them...but I feel sure there has to be a less messy solution...an "in the square" solution, if you will.

Darn. I guess that means I'll have to make more of these to figure it out.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: finishing up Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier, and just started (re-reading) The Blue Bear by Lynn Schooler

this week was good because of...

2012-02-05T23:10:00.008-05:00

...having the windows open in the afternoons.

...the affection and fluffy cuteness of my kitty.

...another stunning Super Bowl commercial (that gave Wildcat Guy chills).

...the moment of "hmm - this looks like an assortment of groceries from my college years."

...finishing his birthday shopping.

...some help getting a slow Monday morning in gear from Tristan Prettyman's awesome version of "Toxic" - courtesy of Pandora.

...unbelievable temperatures for the beginning of February.

...honoring my body's desire to go for a walk instead of doing yoga.

...a student telling me how calming my personality is, and how I definitely am in the right line of work.

...a beautiful cupcake that my sweetheart bought from my favorite-around-here cupcake bakery.

...submitting my passport application.

...a new (newish?) song from Miley Cyrus.

...digging through my jar of Mardi Gras beads...

...and putting some of those beads to good use!

...an awesome weekend conference with students and colleagues.

...(finally!) learning this dance.

...having Sunday afternoon to myself after two packed days of conference goodness.

...a delicious, easy, satisfying bowl of corn chowder.

...sharing a good laugh with one of my student staff about "things not to say in a voicemail for your supervisor."

...a bowl of tasty frozen yogurt (i.e. Wildcat Guy fulfilling his lost bet).

...an old favorite of a movie on TV saving the night after a very bad movie on DVD.

...colleagues to help make and carry out a difficult decision.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier

my one little word for the year

2012-01-31T20:14:00.004-05:00

As 2011 drew to a close, I realized more and more that I knew exactly what my one little word for 2012 needed to be: life.

And the more I reflected on this word, the more I realized how many of the readings and pictures and snippets I'd collected in my folder of "stuff for my journal" touched on this same concept.

So today, a month into 2012, I thought I'd share some of the bits and pieces I assembled in my journal to represent my intention and vision for the year ahead...

"My word for 2012 - my 'one little word' - is this: LIFE. In other words (or in more words, I suppose), it's making the most out of this life - the one life I've been blessed to have. It means living my life wi$ely...healthily...creatively...genuinely...simply...humbly...faithfully...(and perhaps most significantly) fully!!!"

"Everything I do this year will be an attempt to make me a more well-rounded person...I will start to live now. NO MORE EXCUSES." (from a post in Artful Blogging)

"Happiness is not a station you arrive at, but a manner of traveling." (Margaret Lee Runbeck)

"This becomes a matter of making good choices...of being really candid with myself in eliminating that which does not bring value to my life."

"Where in my life am I trying to do it 'right' or perfectly or making things harder for myself? Where am I not simply using my tools/resources well?" (from a post in Artful Blogging by the author of Superhero Designs)

"It is possible to live our lives blandly going through the motions of working, accomplishing, doing, but to never truly enjoy life...[but] We need to learn how to celebrate in God's joy, to live life 'to the full.' " (from The Confident Woman Devotional by Joyce Meyer)

"Life is a special occasion." (from a Hallmark ad)

With all that in mind, I can say that, today, a month into 2012, I am slowly finding ways - small and large - to not let life be wasted in any way. Here's to a life well-lived - every day.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished the February issue of InStyle magazine

this week was good because of...

2012-01-29T23:11:00.006-05:00

...seeing my mom interacting with my kitty cat...and being reminded of where my compassion and love for animals comes from.

...a really nice day-trip.

...Gru's interest in the guest bed being pulled out. (Is it sad that this is the first time it's been used since we adopted him last March??)

...having Mom visit for the weekend.

...couches (and so much more) at IKEA.

...finding a budget-friendly balance between want and purchase.

...the interesting reflections this "As-Is" sign prompted for me.

...buying the first of Wildcat Guy's birthday presents.

...opening the bag of potato chips we brought back from Michigan.

...the "stuff box" that I allowed myself as I worked on cleaning out the closets being done - and only half to two-thirds full.

...reminders that caring for a partner takes focused, intentional energy.

...wearing my awesome new heels for the first time this morning.

...our cat-sitter commenting, "I've been missing the fluffy one!" when I asked if she could cat-sit next month.

...the intense, delicious flavor of Wildcat Guy's sweet potato pancakes.

...finding simple joy in our Sunday traditions.

...his patience while I take pictures of his food.

...finding out where he wants to take me for Valentine's Day. Wow!

...a to-go cup of my favorite hot tea on a chilly, drizzly morning.

...the super-productive Monday on which I got every. single. thing. on my to-do list done.

...an almost-equally productive Friday afternoon that allowed me to be done with work for the weekend when I left the office at 5 pm.

...savoring the last of the holiday cookies.

...the daylight I see when I wake up, and the daylight that's still present when I get home.

...this really funny cartoon in my weekly professional newspaper.

...being a resource for random students.

...a Girls' Night Out at a local winery with some colleagues.

...the best chocolate cake I've had in quite a while.

...not one, but two bouquets of lovely purple tulips from Wildcat Guy, just because.

...the full-length trailer for a movie I'm looking forward to seeing.

...interest in the soundtrack for the movie, after hearing the music in the trailer.

...a fun candy bouquet from Mom. (And don't miss the Hershey's Kisses in the vase!)

...my student staff's patience and understanding when other job responsibilities take priority over my time with them.

...the type of low-key evening that feels regular and normal.

...the first round of hiring decisions for next year's student staff.

...making my bio for the window of the staff office.

...those random little moments of connecting with others.

...finding a chai tea that brews into a chai latte that tastes just how I like it.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: (nothing)

"the world's smallest ideas"

2012-01-28T22:30:00.005-05:00

Mom and I had been talking for many months about taking a day trip up to IKEA; so when I had asked Dad for gift ideas for her birthday and he suggested a girls' day, that seemed like the perfect match!

After an easy drive, we started our IKEA excursion with lunch in the restaurant - because I really like the Swedish meatball plate (complete with lingonberry preserves on the side).

This is the perfect way to describe what I love so much about IKEA's products. Granted, they have lots of the "little stuff" that is more fun than necessity; but their furniture and storage pieces do so well at blending function and simple style.

I hadn't planned on getting a cart, but Mom said we probably should - "just in case." After just ten minutes, it quickly became clear that we'd be going way beyond "just in case."

For the past three and a half years, I've been using a loveseat in my living room from my college's surplus furniture warehouse. It works...but I'd really prefer something a little less institutional-looking and a little more comfortable to sit or lay on. (lie on?) This Kivik loveseat was very appealing, especially with the low armrests. Gru would think the armrests were his own personal shelf, but they would also be much more comfortable for people to lounge across than taller ones.

There was also a really nice leather loveseat with similarly-low armrests. But in a hilarious moment showing just how well my Mom "gets" Wildcat Guy, she reminded me that, as much as I liked the red leather option, he'd never let me have that (being the die-hard UK Wildcat fan that he is). Boo. I guess the black or the brown leather would work just as nicely.

There was something about this shelving unit from the Hemnes line that I liked so much - simple, elegant...and deep enough shelves that my scrapbooks would fit. (All of the shelves that I have now are too shallow, so the spines of my albums stick out a couple of inches.) If only I knew where I could put it in my apartment...

Since I don't really have an office space in my apartment, I do most of my laptop work from the couch. This awesome little fold-up laptop desk would be such a neat solution (and be better for my posture, too)...except for the $69.99 price tag. Definitely going to have to think about this one some more, though.

I always like the look of glass-front cabinets in kitchens. This is definitely on my "some day" list when Wildcat Guy and I have a house of our own.

These wooden artist figurines were scattered throughout the store in the most random places (and poses)! Mom liked them so much that she bought two of them.

And yes - I greatly enjoy the kid's section, too. Who wouldn't find the stuffed broccoli and carrot adorable?? (But my apologies to the carrot, whom I apparently photographed upside-down. Oops.)

Finger puppets! They had such an eclectic, fun collection of finger puppets available. My favorites were the shark (on the far left) and the baker (in the second row, to the right of the turtle).

Recently, I've really wanted a new pillow - so it was a pleasant surprise to remember that IKEA sells pillows (at really low prices, of course!). I bought one of the Gosa Pinje feather pillows...and I'll be trying it out tonight after I've washed and changed the sheets.

Mom's big purchase of the day was for her guest room, where we've been trying to pick colors and decor based on a couple of Icart prints. The dark grey coverlets with pale blush sheets that we found might be just perfect!

Stopping in the little Swedish market is a must! We got some chocolate, some preserves, and some other snacks. We did not purchase any of the crab spread, but that didn't stop us from joking around about the likelihood of Dad eating the spread right out of the tube. (There's a long-standing joke in our family about his tendency to eat decorative frosting that way.)

Four hours later, the cart we got "just in case" was quite amusingly full. I felt pretty good (and pretty wi$e), though, about the items I bought - almost all of which have an immediate purpose (or are being returned for not working out like I had expected).

Even Gru approved of our purchases...well, one in particular, at least. I found this neat little snake - I mean Barnslig - stuffed animal that I thought he'd like; and yay! He started playing with it immediately. Watching him enjoy his new toy was the perfect end to a really fun trip.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished I Do But I Don't

this week was good because of...

2012-01-22T22:56:00.002-05:00

...watching my friend's doggies and a local farm's piggies check each other out. (See the doggie's muzzle on the right side of the photo?)

...enjoying a walk with my friend and her two dogs.

...the crazy-mild 60-degree weather that we took advantage of this afternoon.

...the last five minutes of an otherwise okay movie.

...an out-of-my-comfort-zone recipe for thai chicken pizza.

...the drama department's gracious offer of one complimentary ticket for each staff person for the next play.

...the Valentine's Day wreath I made to hang next to my door.

...a well-stated commentary on what affects someone's legacy.

...the first week of being really back in the swing of things, responsibility- and schedule-wise.

...a big salad of veggies and a hummus-slathered tortilla for lunch.

...having time on Friday morning to put lunch together.

...good conversations with student staff about plans for this year and next.

...cheering for our campus swim team.

...a delightful Saturday afternoon to myself.

...finishing the trilogy everyone's been talking about.

...breakfast for dinner (even if the waffles didn't turn out as great as I'd hoped).

...a useful and beautiful reflection on having "stuff" in your life.

...snoozing in bed and scratching Gru's fuzzy belly while listening to the wind in the trees outside my bedroom window.

...a big shiny-fabric yellow rose to remind me I'm someone special.

...ordering Girl Scout cookies.

...this really inspiring, visually stunning phrase from our Martin Luther King, Jr. Day speaker: "bending the arc of the universe toward justice."

...using leftover hot dogs to try out the "octopus hot dog" idea I'd seen on Pinterest. (I don't have a link to what I originally saw, but here's another link I found for it.)

...the satisfying creative thrill of hearing a friend say how much she LOVES pictures I took of her house during our visit last month.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: I Do But I Don't by Kamy Wicoff

saturday scrapbooking = awesome

2012-01-21T23:59:00.001-05:00

Recently, I've been really wanting to spend some time scrapbooking, but all of my staff and student organization meetings ended up on Tuesday evenings this semester and I hadn't yet figured out what night would be the best replacement for Two-Page Tuesdays. So when I realized that I had absolutely zero plans for this afternoon, I put a yellow post-it note in my planner claiming this afternoon as scrapbooking time. It was fantastic! I got everything accomplished that I had hoped, and then some. Loved it!

But note to self - the next time you buy a new box of photo squares, pay more attention to what you're getting. That way, you don't buy the half-width photo squares (on the left) instead of the full-size ones (on the right) and spend the afternoon struggling with the little ones. (And if there was any doubt about being really in the mood to scrapbook, this was the moment of clarity. Because I could have made a quick trip to the store to get the right photo squares...but I didn't want to stop working.)

This page looks different than how I'd originally envisioned it...but I like how it turned out.

Yes, it's been almost four years since I took these pictures during a trip to Boston. Yes, I just scrapbooked them today, after I made the 2009 layout above. Catt calls it craziness. I prefer to call it making progress.

To be honest, part of the reason it's taken me so long to make these particular pages is because I couldn't find paper that I liked. Until I saw this baseball-patterned paper that was just the right shade of brown to complement the brick in the pictures.

Reading this excerpt of a conversation from the friend I was hanging out with while in Boston, I still laugh at the silliness of it. Which reminded me of why I scrapbook in the first place - to have a creative, visually-appealing record of all the vivid memories I've collected.

Circle punch plus foam tape plus leftover strips of paper = fun, simple accent. Perfect.

Can't find letter stickers in the right color? I just make my own. (And yes, I realize this is exactly why people like the Cricuts and other cutting machines so much...I guess I'm just old-fashioned like that.)

On the flipside of the fun memories my scrapbook pages evoke is the wistfulness of remembering wonderful moments with great people who sadly aren't part of my life anymore, for one reason or another.

Also on the to-do list was a birthday card for Mom, whose birthday is this coming Wednesday. I was very pleased with the collage-ish tag I put together from leftovers on hand from other projects.

But the project I was most excited to work on was the cover set for my December Daily 2011 album. Especially when I decided that it should include roughed-up edges.

On the left is the unsanded corner and on the right is the sanded corner. I haven't rubbed the edges with ink yet, but am so happy I decided to include distressing in this album. It's a technique I enjoy using and I think it will be a nice counterbalance to the more elegant patterns on the paper I'm using.

The outside covers are done! Now all that's left to do is, oh, assemble the whole album!

It was nice, too, to have some time to update my table of contents and reorganize some page plans. I've recently become more comfortable with the idea of documenting only the things I want to, not the things I feel like I have to...which makes it much easier to keep the table of contents (and the backlog of pages to be done) a little more reasonable. Emphasis on the phrase, "a little."

And of course, what would an afternoon of scrapbooking be without my disgruntled kitty to keep me company? For the first couple of hours, he was fast asleep in the living room...but once he realized where I was, he staged a sit-in.

Ahhh. What a perfect afternoon! I've mentioned to my friend Tabitha that I'm hoping to pick one Saturday a month to spend scrapbooking (as a supplement to my still-to-be-determined weeknight efforts), and after seeing how much I got done today (and how rewarding it felt to give myself that time), it's game on!

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: I Do but I Don't by Kamy Wicoff

torn out: from smithsonian

2012-01-16T20:58:00.004-05:00

(I have a really bad habit of starting to read an issue of Smithsonian magazine, setting it down and forgetting about it. Which is how, a couple of weeks ago, I ended up finally reading the second half of the September 2011 issue while getting a pedicure.)

(The feature story about the Taj Mahal was so intriguing, but also a little bit sad in its description of how the property and buildings are deteriorating.)

(I always enjoy reading more about New Orleans, one of my favorite cities to visit.)

(Here's a crazy fact - the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon happened on the 60th anniversary of its groundbreaking.)

(There she is...Miss Most Beautiful Bathing Girl in America! Okay, yeah - Miss America makes a much easier title.)

(There was a neat article about the...preservation of Owney, the terrier-mix dog who served as the unofficial mascot for the Railway Mail Service in the late 1800's.)

(Living and working in the Appalachian region, I have a better appreciation for the musical heritage in this area. This was an insightful look at how the musical tradition is being kept alive.)

(Sea otters are always so adorable and endearing.)

(There were some really thought-provoking statistics about standardized testing in Finland, and this quote from their Ministry of Education and Culture - "We prepare children to learn how to learn, not how to take a test.")

Source: September 2011 issue of Smithsonian

this week was good because of...

2012-01-15T22:57:00.005-05:00

...family snuggle time on the couch.

...colleagues who listen, support and empathize with difficult moments (and difficult students).

...a simple bouquet of tulips from the grocery store.

...the unusual and surreal moment of hearing the "first dance" song from my previous wedding on the radio and listening to my present fiance singing along. On what would have been the tenth anniversary of that wedding. You know - one of those moments when I don't know whether to laugh or grimace. I chose to laugh - a little - and change the station.

...paying off a bet to Wildcat Guy with his Mamaw's chocolate cake.

...a hilarious way to discourage cell phone use at meals and gatherings.

...a delightful swirl in the saucepan while making the frosting for the cake.

...participating in design planning meetings for our new campus residence hall.

...the opportunity to go for an evening walk with colleagues.

...crafting a reasonable exercise plan for the semester.

...another recipe for stir-fry.

...a fun lunchtime conversation about online dating.

...a light overnight snow.

...making good and wi$e decisions at the grocery store.

...indulging my craving for ice cream.

...having more fun incorporating my new boots into my wardrobe.

...a thought-provoking article that I don't entirely agree with, but appreciate for the perspective of, "sin is sin."

...the hearty, satisfying parmesan bistecca at Olive Garden before catching a movie.

...re-booking my flight to North Carolina to spend time with dear friends.

...a successful attempt at making a home-brewed chai latte.

...the lingering amusement that I learned how to do this from the friend who swears I taught her.

...a beautiful, enormous arrangement of lilies at the grocery store.

...finally starting to read The Hunger Games trilogy.

...lots of reading time this week.

...the awesome "ninja-bread" cookies that one of my student staff baked for her residents and fellow staff members.

...the luxury of giving in to the "a nap sounds so delightful right now" feelings on a Saturday afternoon.

...the lovely "thank you" cookies that were delivered anonymously to my desk on Friday.

...an opportunity to participate in meet-and-greet's for candidates on campus.

...super-easy homemade chicken pot pie.

...the way he lets me go on and on about things I find exciting or ridiculous.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

this week was good because of...

2012-01-08T23:02:00.005-05:00

...Gru's new desire to be a lap cat. Or maybe a laptop cat. One of the two. Or both.

...the look of bewilderment on Wildcat Guy's face when I identified a movie starting on TV from nothing more than the opening shot of the studio logo and the first few bars of music.

...the dissipation of my organizational anxiety when my 2012 planner arrived in Tuesday morning's mail. Phew!

...finally having all of my appointments, meetings, events and activities in one record - because I am apparently very bad at keeping track of everything if it's not all in one place.

...realizing as I finished my 2011 planner that the year started and ended with my dear friends in Michigan.

...a wonderfully fun two-night game of Disney Monopoly with Wildcat Guy.

...pride in the goals and objectives a colleague and I have outlined for our work this semester (and beyond).

...the awesome chef's knives my Grandpa gave me for Christmas.

...discovering two fantastic blogs - one practical, one over-the-top entertaining.

...making it home safely from a flurry-filled Monday afternoon of errands.

...listening to the little whisper in my mind saying, "hanging out at the coffee shop for a couple of hours is probably not a good idea." (Because I found out later from Wildcat Guy that, had I gone to the coffee shop and come home when I'd originally planned, I would have risked either being in an accident because of road conditions, or being stuck in the traffic jams caused by the 9 different accidents he heard about on the road home.)

...my homemade version of "coffeeshop time" that was equally productive and rewarding.

...the end-of-week warm spell that prompted me to open the bedroom window.

...simple, fun new door decs for my student staff to celebrate the start of the Spring semester.

...listening to the building come back to life as the students return from their winter break.

...a well-done article with this impressive reminder: "God goes comfortably into whatever arena of your life you wish to take Him"

...wearing the stylish, comfortable new flat boots that I bought while in Michigan.

...a thought-provoking special challenge on TV.

...an evening walk with a couple of colleagues.

...a lovely lemon cake for one of my student staff for her birthday.

...Wildcat Guy's hug and care making a bad day better. Dinner out (complete with a shared hot fudge sundae for dessert) was also nice.

...letting myself have that bad day.

...committing myself to a home yoga practice.

...the satisfaction of practicing, if only for thirty minutes.

...Gru's entertaining insistence on "participating" in my yoga practice.

...great "first meetings of the semester" with various groupings of my student staff.

...stumbling across a musical duo that is, quite simply, phenomenal and creative.

...setting intentions for 2012 with Wildcat Guy, using these awesome little cards.

...ideas and inspiration for documenting not only our intentions, but also our success at fulfilling them.

...chili-dog fries. Which might sound odd, but was a great mingling of chili fries and chili dogs (with the added bonus of eliminating the extra bread of the hot dog buns).

...making further progress in my house-cleaning and -reorganizing efforts.

...catching up a bit on all the photos that need to be edited and uploaded.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: The Serpent Handlers (almost done!)

happy national spaghetti day!

2012-01-04T23:48:00.002-05:00

While I was planning our meals for the next couple of weeks, I saw a note in one of my cooking magazines that 4 January is National Spaghetti Day - so we decided to celebrate the occasion! Yum, yum.

And then, to continue the festivities, we decided to play a game of Disney Monopoly...and maybe it's a stretch, but I think my choice of The Lady and The Tramp as my token fit with the holiday, too, right?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: The Serpent Handlers

good eats in motor city

2012-01-02T20:03:00.004-05:00

Something I love about visiting the Detroit area is all the food choices! It also helps to have an amazing hostess who knows lots of different places...such as a world-famous pizzeria known for its square pizzas in a variety of unique flavors.

We decided to order our pizzas to share, sushi-style. My choice was the tangy "Detroit Institute of the Arts" pizza, with spinach, artichoke and capers (which are not, as a certain blonde thought, fish eggs - that would be caviar). Yum, yum!

Shannon's choice was the Detroiter, a classic pepperoni pizza.

Then there was Wildcat Guy's choice of BBQ chicken pizza, which didn't really surprise me, since that's one of his favorites. But what did surprise me was how it may be the best BBQ chicken pizza I've ever tasted.

Then, Thursday, while Wildcat Guy and I were playing tourist, we enjoyed a cafeteria-style lunch that included huge servings of macaroni and cheese, and a locally-inspired beef pasty (pronounced PASS-tee).

Luckily for Wildcat Guy, I liked both my pasty and his pulled pork. Because he decided, after having a bite of the pasty, that he liked it better. Soooo...we did a quick switcheroo.

After our day at the museum, we really wanted a snack. When we came across a Dunkin Donuts, Wildcat Guy quickly pulled into the parking lot, so we could fill yet another gap in his doughtnut experiences. Granted, it felt weird to me that his first Dunkin Donut was eaten in Michigan, not the Northeast - but as he said, we at least were in the north.

Because the area we were in has such a large Middle Eastern population, it was decided that dinner Thursday night should be Middle Eastern. (Never mind that our friends' Lebanese brother-in-law later informed us that the place we chose was essentially the McDonald's of Middle Eastern restaurants around there.)

I'm a big fan of hummus (based on chick peas), but had never tried baba ghannouge (based on egg plant) until then. It's actually very yummy!

After much discussion about what each of us wanted to order, our server recommended the shawarma combo and the kabob combo for the four of us to share. Okay! I liked the kabobs more than the shawarma, but both were good. Including the veal, which - just in case there is any doubt - is baby cow, not baby lamb. Right, Wildcat Guy?

The two combos together, though, were just way too much food - even for the four of us. So we had some tasty Middle Eastern leftovers (served in Polish pottery) for lunch the next day. (And even then, there were leftovers. Crazy.)

After our Middle Eastern dinner, we'd also stopped at a well-known bakery that specializes in Middle Eastern and French pastries. Wildcat Guy chose this beautiful French pastry with a coconut-flavored mousse sandwiched between a chocolate glaze on top and a chocolate cake on bottom.

I, on the other hand, enjoyed some desserts from one of my favorite bakeries ever - where we stopped during a drive-around in downtown Detroit on Wednesday night. The cream-cheese brownies are melt-in-your-mouth divine. Love them!

Before we left on Saturday, there was a quick trip to another of my favorite spots. There was less to see, being winter and all, but I was so happy to show Wildcat Guy this amazing market. We even picked up some zucchini bread and chocolate chip cookies from the Amish stand for the drive home.

Okay, so this isn't the most local of meals - but Saturday afternoon, Wildcat Guy and I inadvertently turned last year's New Year's Day brunch at IHOP into a new "last meal in Michigan" tradition when we stopped at an IHOP just south of the metro for lunch. And you know those "interpretive" foods that claim they'll taste like something, but don't? Yeah, these Cinnastack pancakes do not fall into that category. They really, truly do taste like cinnamon rolls. Mmm, mmm.

And yes - I really did buy snacks in Michigan to import to Kentucky. Shannon had given me some of these snacks in a gift basket back in October; and we liked them so much that I wanted to get some to bring home. (Although I looked at Wildcat Guy yesterday and lamented the fact that I only bought one bag of each.) Because if we can't bring all the fun of the Detroit area home with us, at least we can bring a bit of the flavor.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: The Serpent Handlers

this week was good because of...

2012-01-01T23:07:00.006-05:00

...our third Christmas celebration (with my family).

...my family's flexibility with his and our schedules.

...the cats being amused and entertained by the train around the tree.

...perfect Christmas gifts from my family.

...quiet time in the craft studio while Mom sewed.

...the perk of having the week between Christmas and New Year's off.

...great balcony seats for a delightful holiday performance.

...a really nice "girls' night out" with Mom.

...our Santa hats on our pumpkins.

...moments that reinforce my belief that animals (i.e. Gru) are smarter than we give them credit for - and possibly have a sense of humor, too. (He's only allowed to sit on the blue duvet, not the sheets...but he's literally toeing the line.)

...taking a road trip with my favorite travel partner.

...chocolate-chip muffins for breakfast.

...spending a few laidback days with two dear friends.

...sit-down breakfasts and eating out for dinners.

...the adorableness of our friends' doggie, Sparky.

...the simple pleasure of having a girlfriend to run errands with.

...their lovely new house, decorated beautifully in her (their?) signature style of comfortable, eclectic vintage.

...how well Wildcat Guy gets along with my friends, and how much laughing the four of us did.

...the three of us entertaining Wildcat Guy with our rocking out in the car to an old-school classic.

...a day at the Henry Ford with Wildcat Guy.

...the interesting feeling of playing semi-tour guide for Wildcat Guy in a place I'm still growing to love myself.

...a low-key NYE at home with my kitty.

...Beyonce's gorgeous, stunning video performance that played just after midnight.

...a sweet e-card from Mom and Dad.

...pausing to give thanks for a wonderful 2011, and to pray for an equally amazing 2012.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: The Serpent Handlers by Fred Brown and Jeanne McDonald

torn out: from in style

2011-12-26T23:50:00.005-05:00

(I absolutely love this ad! There is so much romance and serenity and elegance in this image.)

(Want. These. Shoes.)

(In response to the question on the left, my answer would be - "Yes. Three.")

(When I read the question in the top left, I thought of my friend Catt, who has possibly the most entertaining re-gifting story I've ever heard.)

(A piece - however short - about Ryan Gosling is always a good piece to read and see.)

(How amusing that red and peacock blue are considered a "wildcard pairing." I enjoy mixing those two colors all the time!)

(This was such a sweet ad for the St. Jude's Christmas products.)

(Speaking of gift guides...)

(I would have been satisfied with any of these gift boxes in my stocking.)

(Awesome idea #1 - the t-shirt with the silk-screened camera image. Awesome idea #2 - duct tape designed to look like a road.)

(Awesome idea #3 - samurai and geisha bento boxes.)

(Awesome idea #4 - the super-fun iPad stand. Not so awesome idea - crayons that look like a candy necklace. Because yes - I would forget they were crayons.)

(The feature on Amy Adams was really nicely done, with gorgeous photos of her.)

(I particularly liked her comment about being in a relationship "where we both felt lucky." Amen to that!)

(I can't decide whether Mark Ruffalo looks rugged or villainous in this photo.)

(If I ever have a window for a wall, I want to do this.)

(Personally, I don't see the big deal about double-dipping - when it's a party of family or friends, at least. But this is a creative approach to individual servings.)

Source: December 2011 issue of InStyle

this week was good because of...

2011-12-25T23:01:00.005-05:00

...our second Christmas together.

...a lovely Christmas Day afternoon with the Wildcat family.

...getting to place the last "ornament" on the Advent tree my mom made.

...baking and cooking for holiday meals.

...a totally lucky guess of what was in a large gift box - and surprising the heck out of his family with my correct guess.

...delightful, perfect Christmas gifts, both given and received.

...the ways, small and large, in which we continue to build and form our partnership.

...finalizing our plans for this coming week's trip to Michigan.

...valuable reminders from an inspiring movie.

...Gru's first Christmas. It wasn't quite as exciting for him as it could have been (since Wildcat Guy and I aren't really the bows-and-ribbons types of gift-wrappers)...but it was neat to see his interest in the paper and boxes.

...celebrating the start of my holiday break with the last ginger pound cupcake.

...eleven days away from work.

...the holiday flavors at the local frozen yogurt cafe - and the adorable little ad describing them.

...lunch (and dessert) with colleagues to celebrate the end of the semester.

...Wildcat Guy's help finishing the Christmas cards.

...a productive and enjoyable evening of Christmas shopping.

...his patience with the task-oriented focus I slip into.

...finding the perfect quote for the second batch of Christmas cards.

...Gru's new interest in being a lap-cat.

...the creative satisfaction of crafting something beautiful out of this pile of scraps.

...having my passport photos made.

...this awesome assortment of "clever ideas" - some of which I'd never thought of!

...sorting through and putting away the "stuff" that's been packed in boxes in the closet for months and months.

...the ability to putter around for a couple of days. (Because let's be honest - the opportunity to spend a couple of days in sweats just doing stuff is nice.)

...this super-crafty Christmas tree in the window of a local gallery. (And yes - those are paper plates.)

...an upgraded laptop from the campus IT department.

...making good use of the unexpected downtime at work (while my laptop was being upgraded) to do lots of filing and desk organizing.

...finding out that there's a beautiful coastline graphic at the bottom of my blog background graphic. (Glad it's something I really like!)

What made your week (and your Christmas) good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: The Silver Glove by Suzy McKee Charnas

merry christmas to all!

2011-12-24T23:53:00.002-05:00

"It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air."
(W.T. Ellis)

this week was good because of...

2011-12-18T23:56:00.006-05:00

...cooking a holiday dinner for my staff.

...the exuberant joy and care my staff members have - for each other and for their work.

...putting together a wonderful menu of old and new recipes from multiple cookbooks.

...the realization that glazed carrots are entirely too easy to make.

...Wildcat Guy's help purchasing a Honey-Baked Ham.

...the most delicious, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes gratin I've ever had. (And I made them!)

...his willingness to be my sous chef.

...planning well enough that the only leftovers were some ham and some pie.

...listening to the Christmas mix CD a friend gave me a few years back while I cooked.

...the magical way that music soothes my soul and lightens my spirit.

...ginger pound cupcakes with ginger frosting.

...Wildcat Guy's patient amusement while I photographed his cupcake, especially after I asked him, "Do you want sprinkles on your cupcake? I hope so, because I need to put some on there to help me get a better picture."

...Gru trying to hide from the vacuum cleaner under the low sofa in the guest room. If he'd only had just a bit more room.

...sharing a laugh with my colleagues after our director (who's in his late 50's) used the phrase "OMG" in conversation.

...the really great plastic-free packaging that The Body Shop uses for their shipping.

...finding coupons online just by doing a Google search.

...getting a batch of Christmas cards made this afternoon.

...some progress on my Christmas shopping list.

...staving off a potential Christmas gift mishap.

...a big mug of miso soup at lunch.

...the peacefulness of an empty building.

...the almost explosive bloom that one of the flowers in my bouquet from Wildcat Guy has experienced.

...going easy on myself in yoga class this week.

...eating the last of the pumpkin pie straight from the dish.

...the interesting balance my colleagues and I have between thriving on our work with the students and being happy to see them leave for the break.

...a sweet and simple little gift from one of my staff members.

...letting myself be okay with a very basic, no-frills approach to Christmas this year.

...picking out this year's Christmas ornament. (And if you can't tell, the polar bear is holding a camera.)

...putting up the Christmas wreath (my space-saving alternative to a tree).

...a plane ticket for a January trip to North Carolina.

...finding out that the funky song from J'adore's TV commercial is an actual song. Sweet!

...the grace, wisdom and humility to apologize when I make mistakes.

...finding a Gru-sitter for our trip to Michigan.

...a pumpkin spice chai latte from the local coffee shop to start my Monday.

...surviving what turned out to be an extremely hectic week of long days and not much sleep.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Drowning Ruth

reflecting on joy

2011-12-16T12:33:00.001-05:00

Early last month, an acquaintance at church announced that she was looking for volunteers to submit reflections for the church's Advent devotional. After reading the different verses that formed the basis of the daily readings, I offered to write a devotion for Psalm 100: 1-2, which reads:

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.”

It was hard to know exactly what to write (especially since I always worry whether I'm writing enough), but I was thankful for how the reflection turned out. Here's what I wrote...

Joy. We hear that word a lot during the holidays, don’t we? “Joy to the world,” we sing, “The Lord has come.” As if joy is a natural extension of the Christmas season that requires no effort or planning on our part. Yet if we continue our singing of this beloved carol, we find the phrase, “Repeat the sounding joy.” Repeat. As if joy is something we must choose to partake in. Hmm. Could it be both? Could joy be an ever-present gift and an active choice?

Reflecting upon this Psalm, I believe it could, indeed, be both. “Shout for joy,” we are instructed. “Worship...with joyful songs.” These are things not done passively. To shout and to worship require energy on our part. (Sometimes more energy than we feel capable of.) But if we are paying attention, we recognize how many delights God has placed around us and how full of joy our lives are – not through our own achievement, but through His blessings.

This Christmas season, what will we be joyful for each day? What will we shout for, and be glad for in our daily lives?

Reading that now, midway through December, I'm a little sad to realize that I've let myself stray from the path of joy a lot this month...I've let things distract me and turn my attention toward stress and frustration instead. Yet the joy has been there all along, if only I'd take notice.

this week was good because of...

2011-12-11T23:12:00.004-05:00

...the one-year anniversary of our engagement.

...celebrating the anniversary with a wedding.

...a red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting.

...a productive Saturday afternoon of Christmas errands.

...using wi$dom to focus on Christmas shopping (v. personal shopping).

...wearing a new blouse for the first time.

...the ability to special order books and media from the campus bookstore at mostly comparable prices with very quick turn-around.

...good customer service that made getting a replacement copy of the November/December issue that never arrived super easy and fast.

...all the great recipes and ideas I find in issue after issue - such as...

...the rich deliciousness of blue cheese strip steaks with red bell peppers and balsamic drizzle (in the November/December 2010 issue).

...another great evening of yoga practice that included the opportunity to refine a pose I have always enjoyed.

...sleeping bookends.

...sharing a good laugh about the importance of picking your battles.

...the glow of the morning sunshine on the flowers he brought me last week.

...this inspiring statement about family.

...cute chocolate treats at the grocery store.

...a "bright spot" for my football team.

...celebrating our December graduates at the mid-year recognition ceremony.

...relaxing on the couch for a midweek movie night.

...the seating arrangement we've concocted to make lounging on a love seat super comfortable and snuggly.

...the adorableness of the new "Winnie the Pooh" movie.

...testing Wildcat Guy's skills (and okay, mine) by playing snippets of the movie in Spanish afterwards.

...making a colorful and filling chef salad.

...the upcoming release of a new novel by one of my favorite authors.

...the Christmas festivities hosted by my staff on Friday night.

...early preparations for the campus' closing for the winter break.

...finding confetti from a fabulous wedding still in the wonderful heels I wore.

...my students' delight at spending a few minutes interacting with Gru.

...positive and constructive feedback from one of my student staffs about my performance as their supervisor.

...the lazy Saturday-night treat of another cupcake from the box that Wildcat Guy brought.

...curiosity about the new movie based on Nicholas Sparks' book.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished The Cat who Came for Christmas by Cleveland Amory

getting my kicks

2011-12-07T12:24:00.001-05:00

So yesterday morning, as I was getting dressed, I decided that I was tired of wearing my go-to black loafers that are simple, stylish and (the best part) super comfortable. But with it being rainy and chilly outside, heels didn't sound appealing either. Hmmm...what's a girl to do?!

A-ha! My eclectic streak came out and I decided to wear my Converse-style sneaker clogs. I hardly ever wear them, but this felt like the perfect opportunity to branch out and try something funky - something I might see in a magazine and usually discard as too "not me."

It actually was very fun to look down throughout the day to see the white rubber toes peeking out from the hem of my wide-leg trousers.

Okay, so I wasn't setting any new trends. The idea of sneakers with office wear is not earth-shattering. But I have to admit - when one of my students (whose style I admire immensely) complimented me on the combination, I felt pretty proud of myself for taking a chance - however small.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: The Cat Who Came for Christmas by Cleveland Amory

two-page tuesday: a-men!

2011-12-06T23:53:00.004-05:00

Tonight's completed layout was a 2-page spread for the coffee my church hosted last fall to kick off a women's mentoring ministry that was being started. I was really happy with the way the layout came together, and with the colors I was able to use...from papers I already had in my stash!

And the icing on the cake was that I got not two, but three pages done tonight! It's from a work event, though, so sadly - no picture to show. But I hope you'll still appreciate my satisfaction at having a productive, creative evening.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: the December issue of InStyle magazine

make it & forget about it - cajun style

2011-12-05T23:35:00.001-05:00

Last Sunday, while paging through my cookbooks in search of some new recipes, I found a recipe for Cajun pork chops in the Slow Cooker & One-Pot Meals section of one. I had no idea what "converted rice" was, and I couldn't understand why you'd have frozen green peppers...but the final product sounded creamy and hearty, which always seem to be a good combination. So I added the necessary ingredients to my shopping list, and last night, we gave it a try.

This is definitely not a dish that is easily classified as pretty while you're making it. But trust me when I say there are a lot of yummy ingredients in that mix - cream of celery soup, chopped green peppers (fresh, not frozen), chopped onions, powdered onion soup mix, and oh - Cajun seasoning, of course.

All that yumminess gets poured into the crockpot on top of Old Bay-rubbed pork chops, which rest on top of vegetable broth (made using one of these awesome bouillon cubes I found at the local grocery store) and converted rice. Which, I learned, is an actual type of rice, sold next to the instant, but (judging from the ingredient descriptions on the boxes) somehow processed differently. (Eventually, when I've run out of the converted rice, I may see how regular instant rice works.)

The best part is that, after about fifteen minutes of prep time, I got to put the lid on the crockpot, set it to low and not worry about it for four hours. Meanwhile, dinner was cooking away (and dispersing a mouth-watering smell through the apartment in the process).

Even as a finished dish, it's a monochromatic, almost bland-looking dish. But don't let that fool you. The flavors are delicious, and we will definitely be having this again in the future. It was even better than I expected, and the pork chops were tender enough that knives weren't necessary. The only thing I would do differently? Having french bread or rolls to wipe the bowl clean with!

this week was good because of...

2011-12-04T22:47:00.002-05:00

...the lovely Advent tree that Mom purchased and made paper ornaments for.

...hugs from my love after a stressful day or cranky moment.

...an intense, but rewarding yoga class. (Extended triangle pose or down dog split, anyone?)

...the lovely bouquet of purple flowers that Wildcat Guy brought me on Thursday.

...patience to deal with difficult student issues.

...having budgeted wi$ely enough over the past couple of months that a $300+ truck repair stayed off my credit card.

...a creamy chocolate pudding parfait from the campus cafe for an afternoon snack.

...$25 in savings on Cyber Monday (plus free shipping!).

...Gru deciding to take "lap cat" two ways - not only did he sit on my lap, but he decided to rest his paw on the mousepad of my laptop.

...not having anything important open when Gru took interest in the computer.

...the Christmas tree in the main square being lit.

...the opportunity to introduce Wildcat Guy to the delightful Christmas concert tradition on campus.

...Cajun pork chops, made in the crockpot.

...this adorable video of puppies chasing their mama.

...liking a sequel even more than the original.

...a very beautiful original (I think) song on the soundtrack.

...eating the last of the mellowcreme pumpkins.

...the start of December Daily 2011.

...deciding what the Christmas cards will look like this year.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom

this week was good because of...

2011-11-27T23:32:00.005-05:00

...our Thanksgiving celebration with his family.

...finding out that his younger sister enjoys watching the National Dog Show, too.

...the traditional Thanksgiving feast Wildcat Mom prepared, with ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green beans, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and broccoli casserole.

...finding my balance in the energy and noise of his family.

...our laidback Thanksgiving celebration with my family.

...how easily he fits in with my family.

...the "everyone had Thanksgiving food on Thursday, so let's do something different for the dinner we're calling 'Thanksgiving' " steak dinner my Mom prepared.

...confirming preliminary wedding plans with Mom and Dad.

...light purple poinsettias. Who knew?!

...watching Paula Deen deep-fry cheesecake on one of her cooking shows.

...a relatively quiet Saturday after two busy days of Thanksgiving celebrations.

...Wildcat Guy's team breaking the 26-year losing streak against their biggest rival.

...the striking lyrics to a song I heard on Pandora.

...the love and care that permeates even our most difficult conversations.

...all the baking I got to do this week - which also meant very happy taste buds.

...an uncrowded, unstressful visit to the grocery store on Wednesday morning.

...colleagues who are joining me in the "let's bring treats to the office to share" venture. Because homemade apple pie on the last day of work before the Thanksgiving break was delightful!

...Gru's company throughout the week.

...wisdom and patience during a campus emergency, and appreciation for the outpouring of love and concern from former students throughout that experience.

...a calming, comforting worship song at church this morning.

...a twist-open wine bottle.

...the main thoroughfare of campus lined with Christmas light-strewn trees.

...completing a scrapbook page about something very fun (i.e. my first attempt at making a king cake).

...having (making?) so much time this week to scrapbook and to work on reorganizing supplies.

...also, completing a scrapbook page about something very difficult (i.e. Dorian's passing).

...Wildcat Guy's willingness to let me include his (written) voice in my scrapbooking.

...a new tradition of writing down what we are thankful for (to include in the pages I'll make for each year's Thanksgiving celebrations). Thanks to a dear friend for the inspiration!

What made your week good?

Where I am: home

no such thing as too much baking

2011-11-27T22:49:00.005-05:00

It turns out that last week's red velvet brownies (which I baked for my department's annual Thanksgiving potluck) were only a warm-up for the small marathon of baking that I undertook on Wednesday night.

Not that I had any reason to be surprised. I mean, I did volunteer to bring desserts to three different Thanksgiving celebrations in one week. Still, it was quite amusing to come home from the grocery store on Wednesday morning and realize that everything I'd bought was for baking. Oh, the wonderful things that were going to happen in my kitchen that night!

And yes, that is whipping cream, creme fraiche and Cool Whip sitting in my fridge. I wasn't sure about the creme fraiche, especially since I picked it up as a potential substitute for the mascarpone cheese that neither grocery store carried...but I was looking forward to putting all these creamy products to good use.

The first dessert was a long-time favorite of mine - pumpkin chocolate-chip squares. When I came across this recipe four years ago, I was admittedly a bit skeptical. But the idea of combining two delicious flavors into one dessert motivated me to try it.

That was definitely one chance that paid off! So I was looking forward to sharing one of my favorite desserts with Wildcat Guy and his family during their Thanksgiving feast on Thursday. And when I say feast, I mean feast. What else do you call Thanksgiving dinner for eleven people?!

But I also wanted to bring something that wasn't pumpkin-y. So I decided to try a recipe I'd found for Cocoa Peanut Butter Pie. Note to self - when some recipes instruct you to use a food processor, a blender can be a good substitute. For pie crusts that require you to turn cookies into crumbs? Not so much. Unless you are willing to blend just a few cookies at a time. Poor Wildcat Guy kept getting distracted from the basketball games on TV by my grumblings at the blender.

But his patience paid off when he got to help me lick the bowl. Mmm...just look at that creamy goodness! Any worry I had about how the pie would taste quickly evaporated when I saw Wildcat Guy's face as we cleaned the bowl with spoons and fingers; and the deliciousness of this pie was so worth the grumblings that making the crust caused.

Last on my list for the evening was a red wine chocolate cake for our Thanksgiving dinner with my family on Friday. I'd been intrigued by this recipe when I read it, and then a dear friend gave me a bottle of red wine. Since I'm not really a red wine person, it seemed like a natural choice to bake with it.

This was also where the creme fraiche and whipping cream were used - blended with powdered sugar and vanilla to create a garnish to dollop on top. Separately, the chocolate cake and the "dolloping cream" were a little off for my taste. The former was slightly too rich, and the latter was slightly too...plain in its flavor. But together, there was a balance that made it taste really good.

My little baking marathon reminded me what I love about preparing food - especially desserts - for others. It may be time-consuming, and occasionally frustrating...but the looks (and sounds) of delight as friends and family dig in is so pleasing.

Hmmm...now what to bake next??

Where I am: home

torn out: from in style

2011-11-26T15:03:00.008-05:00

(I always enjoy hearing about new blogs...)

(...so it was fun to find another cooking blog. Not that I need another cooking blog to read, but this one looks interesting.)

(Based on the options they show, I think I'd rather have the one major investment piece. Their assortment of "quick-hit items" seems so random.)

(Hmm. The idea of these has intrigued me. Because it is pretty annoying trying to fit a pair of socks over my tights without the tights pulling my toes in too tightly.)

(I used to say, "footed pajamas." Until those became widely available. I know there are other things, but darn if I can think of them.)

(As much as I like TreSemme's hair products, I need to try these dry shampoos.)

(I always like InStyle's photo features from the film festivals. It's neat to see the portraits - some funny, some sweet, some serious - of different stars with castmates from new or forthcoming films.)

(What a lovely group of women to find in one film that sounds like it will be quite fun to watch!)

(I would like to say that I only took this picture for a friend of mine who's a big fan of Kellan Lutz. But that would be lying. Who wouldn't like a view of those abs?!)

(This outfit is amazing!! Not sure if I have the figure or the attitude to pull it off...but I'm thinking about trying it.)

(Such a cool concept! And I really like that they're made of bamboo, not plastic.)

(Another website I was interested to hear about - evernote.com. Definitely going to have to check that out!)

(Such a gorgeous photo of Gwen Stefani!)

(I always enjoy reading about her, and particularly liked this quote about her exercise habits.)

(Hilarious! They did a fashion feature with Miss Piggy as their model - so cute.)

(They even had shoes for her. Leopard-print platforms - I like her taste.)

(With a fiance who loves sweet potatoes, I just might have to try this.)

Source: November 2011 issue of InStyle

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks

two-page tuesday: finishing up holidays

2011-11-22T23:45:00.000-05:00

Tonight I finished up some holiday pages. First was the final touches on the "32nd Birthday" page that I started at a crop in September. This was a fun page to put together, cutting up cards to create an eclectic collage of birthday wishes from that day!

Then it was time to finish up my December Daily 2010 album. Because I am embarrassed to admit that, while I'd had about 85-90% of this album done months ago, I'd never gotten back to completing that last 10-15%. Bleh. And with December Daily 2011 looming just around the corner!

I added last details to various pages, using up little trims and stickers and ephemera I had compiled from my (relatively extensive) stash...

...and filled in journaling for the day-by-day assortment of holiday memories. Such a lovely jaunt down memory lane, especially since last December was full of so many first's and wow's!

And now...I'm so pleased to say that the album is done. 100%! The album's design was a bit different for me, but I'm really happy with how it turned out and am looking forward to adding it to my December Daily collection.

Gru thought we should celebrate with some belly rubs. That, or a physical request for belly rubs was his way of saying, "why are you using your hands to scrapbook when they could be buried in my furry belly??"

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Snow Falling on Cedars

birthday wishes in blog-land

2011-11-21T12:56:00.003-05:00

Happy birthday wishes to one of my dearest friends, Catt, who is celebrating her birthday today. You are a lovely blessing in my life, and I wish for you a 33 full of even more joy, love and photographic moments than 32 brought.

this week was good because of...

2011-11-20T22:54:00.005-05:00

...a wonderful weekend in Ohio with Wildcat Guy.

...picking out an outfit that I was happy with (and that we were able to coordinate with his).

...celebrating the wedding of a friend and his lovely bride.

...their beautifully heartfelt, grace-filled ceremony.

...cupcake centerpieces at the reception.

...spending time with dear friends and their children.

...play time in the playhouse...and the playroom...and the kitchen...etc.

...getting a much sought-after picture of my friends' dog jumping into the pond.

...the joy of having Wildcat Guy share time with my friends.

...red velvet brownies with cream cheese frosting.

...a fun departmental Thanksgiving dinner to start the weekend.

...silly satisfaction that I didn't need instructions for using tissue paper.

...my well-honed, well-practiced gift bag-packing technique.

...stopping for ice cream on our way back from the wedding.

...pumpkin pancakes and turkey bacon.

...real maple syrup.

...a thoughtful, inspirational reflection from a delightful writer.

...watching Gru's first experience drinking from the shower faucet.

...a rewarding and candid conversation with my supervisor during my mid-year evaluation.

...the flexibility in my Friday schedule to make everything work - from trainings to office work to baking to packing.

...putting the picture from girls' weekend in the frame Shannon gave me that weekend. (And yes - I am still going to be sharing that story. Soon.)

...purchasing my copy of the newest Nicholas Sparks book at the campus bookstore.

...leftovers that taste even better than the original serving.

...getting super caught-up on paperwork in the office.

...the holiday banners at Panera.

...their soup-and-salad combos that are both tasty and filling.

...seeing a wonderfully fun movie. "Me-wow!"

...the gracious help from a colleague who was willing to trade holiday duty dates with me.

...an entertaining play on Google's doodles.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Snow Falling on Cedars

this week was good because of...

2011-11-13T23:19:00.005-05:00

...a Friday-night Homecoming party at the local coffee house featuring free Ale-8 and live music by one of my (uber-talented) former students.

...a delightful Homecoming weekend during which I got to see many wonderful people and enjoy a number of fun campus events.

...the sense of place and belonging that goes with recognizing alumni who are returning to campus. Because they are individuals I have spent time and built relationships with.

...snacking on a yummy treat while working in my journal on Saturday afternoon.

...the wi$dom of returning clothes that I don't absolutely love.

...putting together a fun, quirky birthday card for my favorite about-to-be-seven year-old.

...this song, amongst other country tunes, that helped me ground myself and cheer up a little on a blah Monday morning.

...an easier-than-you'd-think pasta dish that was both light and filling (even without the mushrooms called for in the recipe) - and that Wildcat Guy liked enough to have seconds! With a side of sirloin steak, it was a perfect meal.

...his willingness to be my culinary guinea pig.

...the "buy one, get one for a dollar" sale at a nearby bookstore.

...keeping my wits about me at Target (even with the full moon). Because somehow, the only things I bought were the things on my list. That never happens!!

...a neat reminder that every little bit makes a difference.

...the CMA Awards show - and Faith Hill's first performance there in five years!

...Gru being a lap cat for once.

...these lovely little Christmas cards that I will use for my student staff.

...an afternoon of craft- and book-browsing with my mom.

...the way my mom and I both have an openness to thinking outside the box about crafts - like using a decorating fabric for a skirt.

...the opportunity to take a personal day - just because I wanted (and needed) to.

...this adorable Playmobil nativity set - complete with campfire and cauldron! (seen at the very far right of the box picture)

...the gentle tugs of childhood memories whenever I see Playmobil.

...and, for those who feel a nativity must have the three wise men, the supplemental set that completes the picture.

...a really beautiful reflection on praying for those most dear to our hearts.

...an enormous chicken bacon ranch pizza for our Sunday lunch. (Know what I'm having for lunch tomorrow, too!)

...the first preview for a movie I hadn't heard anything about, with what looks like a very interesting performance by a favorite actress.

...the first wedding purchase. (Excluding the wedding planner and many wedding magazines, of course.)

...discussing wedding plans in great detail with Mom, and getting the tentative go-ahead.

...improving my portion control.

...being conscientious of leftovers and using them well.

...the amusement of hitting the 10,000-pictures-taken mark on my point-and-shoot. In just over two years.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: nothing - because I stayed up until 2:45 last night to finish Sarah's Key

accepting lizzy's challenge - 11/11/11 edition

2011-11-11T23:11:00.007-05:00

Confession - this photo wasn't taken at exactly 11:11 am. Because at 11:11 am, I was sitting across a desk from my supervisor. While he would have been highly amused by the fact that I wanted to take a picture of or with him, I wouldn't have felt comfortable posting that picture here. So this is the picture of where I was at 11:14 am -

taking a quick mental break before jumping into the stack of work that I was very proud to work my way through on Friday. (And to answer a frequent question - yes, I took the picture that's the desktop image on my laptop. Underneath the pier at one of my very favorite beaches. I love it!)

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay

torn out: from the knot

2011-11-07T21:19:00.006-05:00

(Not only do I like the sound of the title, "The Color Issue," but also I love both of the dresses on the cover.)

(Purple sand?? In central California?? How did I never know about this?)

(If we were having our wedding in a castle, this would be a perfect dress.)

(Popular purple flowers - this will be a good list to keep on hand.)

(I liked this designer's comment about ingenuity and creativity.)

(The dress in the center is so lovely - I was disappointed I couldn't get a better photograph of the lace and the details.)

(Ummm...am I reading a bridal magazine or a prom magazine?)

(A garden party? That's similar to a farmhouse setting, right? Close enough that I enjoyed seeing this more casual interpretation of a tuxedo for the groom.)

(I haven't just been to a wedding at the ultra-glamorous Colony Club. I was in the wedding that's pictured in the photo!)

(I really like the neckline and strap of this dress - if I could ever find a version of this in ivory, I'd definitely want to try it on.)

(All the purples in these bouquets are so pretty!)

(The ombre ruffles on the tiers of this cake are so unusual.)

(What a fun picture of the bride and bridesmaids' shoes! Must remember this idea.)

(My favorite part of this issue was the Look Book - almost 200 pages of bridal gowns!)

(Oh my goodness - what a dress! I can't imagine what kind of wedding this dress would be suited to, but wow - so sexy and glamorous and amazing.)

(This is such a unique necklace - it would be an interesting accessory for a strapless gown.)

(I never would have imagined being so interested in lace dresses - but with the venue we're considering, it would be so perfect.)

(And while this isn't lace, it's a beautiful gown. I really like the ruffles and the layers and the blend of detailing.)

source: Fall 2011 issue of the knot

this week was good because of...

2011-11-06T23:05:00.005-05:00

...six days in a row of time spent with Wildcat Guy.

...an evening with his future in-laws.

...seeing an amazing performance with Mom, Dad and Wildcat Guy.

...the unplanned coincidence of dinner at a Japanese restaurant prior to seeing the Japanese drummers in concert.

...Dad's comment that I should start a food blog. Heh - if he only knew! (Not that this is a food blog...but still.)

...not taking myself so seriously when it comes to getting dressed, and trying new looks.

...overdressing just a bit for a couple of hours at a local bar with colleagues. But seriously? If I'm not going to wear my tall boots to a bar, where am I going to wear them?!

...that couple of hours at a local bar with colleagues - chatting, relaxing and enjoying some live music.

...a fun Halloween e-card from Mom.

...the first day of a new yoga class, and the satisfaction of returning to my yoga practice.

...the unexpected ease of flowing quite smoothly from a flat, static position on my mat to upward-facing dog pose.

...eating the last of the Michigan pretzels.

...Catt's observation that I am entirely too good at "rationing" treats.

...an hour or so by the campfire at a friend's house, enjoying the brisk fall weather and indulging in some s'mores.

...an afternoon of bowling with my colleagues.

...a fun dinner with some of my student staff.

...the beautiful palette of colors on the trees around my building.

...being stuck in "snuggle sandwiches" between Gru and Wildcat Guy. It makes getting out of bed difficult, but it's so comforting while I'm lying there.

...how super easy it is to straighten my hair this season.

...these products that make straightening my hair so simple.

...our regular Sunday routine.

...this cartoon that made the Facebook rounds, and how accurately it captures my feelings about the balance between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

...the ideas percolating in my brain for this year's December Daily project.

...the way Wildcat Guy and I both saw this plate and thought, "if that was a cat instead of a dog, we'd totally buy it." - because that's totally something that Gru does.

...finding out I didn't need to be at a day-long series of meetings, and the extra hours of productive task-doing that provided.

...pulled pork barbeque over a baked potato.

...the really helpful guy at the Meijer meat department who helped me pick out the right cut of meat for my pulled pork.

...the oddness of this birthday coupon for a local hibachi restaurant.

...pleasant people at the very crowded grocery store.

...a loaf of cinnamon-chip bread from the local organic store.

...catching up on my postcard album.

...conversations with students - some rewarding, some insightful, some just plain entertaining.

...an afternoon in search of a few new clothes for fall at my favorite department store.

...making wi$e choices in the dressing room.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: (nothing)

torn out: from the knot

2011-11-05T23:12:00.005-04:00

(Would it surprise anyone when I say this might be me in two years?)

(In response to the "what would you do?" question - I would ignore the nudge. It's so frustrating to me when people ask or hint about being invited.)

(These groom's cakes are so cool!)

(The picture isn't as clear as I'd hoped, but I am in awe of the grandeur of the couple's church.)

(The peacock cake topper is beautiful! If only I could find an appropriate way to incorporate peacock feathers into our wedding...)

(We're probably not going to have a ring-bearer...but I would love to use this "panel" of buttons in some way.)

(This is possibly the most creative guest book I've ever seen - asking each guest to add a fingerprint "leaf" to a tree graphic. Lovely!)

(This guest book, on the other hand, seems contradictory - because when you put all the puzzle pieces together, you either see the picture on the front or the notes on the back - but not both.)

(Even though I have an awesomely creative circle of friends and family, I'm not sure how they'd feel about RSVP cards that expect creative responses.)

(It amuses me that this list of "must-haves" is written as if the bride will be doing her own hair. That will not be me.)

(I love the way ArtChic thinks - how amazing would it be to splurge on a pair of Louboutins!)

(This cake is so pretty and fun!)

(Wildcat Guy has asked a few times if I would like a KitchenAid mixer. As soon as I can decide what color I want, we'll be putting it on our registry.)

("Lee's specialty" - I like that!)

(Every time I read a question like this, I'm appalled. Really??)

(But this response is so great - the idea of the baby being part of the celebration is such a lovely perspective!)

(This is such a fun cake-topper idea. The pieces almost look like cookie cutters.)

(Such an adorable way to do a pre-ceremony couples picture without them seeing each other! I'm not sure whether I'd be able to resist peeking or not.)

Source: a recent issue of The Knot: Michigan

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: (nothing)

dinner, paula deen style

2011-11-04T00:21:00.004-04:00

For my birthday, Mom bought me this beautiful teal enamel-lined cast-iron dutch oven from one of Paula Deen's cookware lines. Yay! I had been wanting one of these pans for a while, so that I could give soup-making a try (among other things)...and Mom picked the perfect one out for me.

And to go with that - a Paula Deen cookbook! I had borrowed this cookbook from the library, and when I realized how many of the recipes I wanted to make copies of, I decided it would probably make sense to simply get my own copy. (Or, in this case, ask for a copy for my birthday.) Just look at all those dog-ears!

So it was with great amusement that I realized I'd be making a Paula Deen recipe for chili (albeit not from the cookbook) in my Paula Deen cookware.

I made "courage chili" with a side of cornbread muffins - it was the perfect dinner to share with some of my student staff on a cold rainy night. And I was impressed with how simple it was to make - even with my love's help - just three steps to hearty deliciousness.

And then...in my search for a dessert that would complement the chili...I found a yummy-sounding recipe for lemon bars. In - what else? - my new Paula Deen cookbook. These were equally easy, and equally delicious.

Ahh, Paula Deen. What inspiration she provides for my cooking!

happy men make dinner day!

2011-11-03T23:54:00.000-04:00

I found out earlier this week that November 3 is National Men Make Dinner Day...which seemed appropriate, given that I had planned to enlist Wildcat Guy's help finishing the dinner we were hosting for some of my student staff, so that I could make it to yoga and still have dinner ready on time.

He's such a good sous chef!

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok

this week was good - addendum

2011-10-30T23:59:00.002-04:00

Oops...I forgot a few things. Like...

...Gru playing with his new "toy" (and by toy, I mean large piece of wadded-up tissue paper).

...the heat being turned on in my building.

...a worship song that gives me beautiful chills to hear and sing - because of the music and because of the lyrics.

And now on to the week ahead...

this week was good because of...

2011-10-30T23:41:00.003-04:00

...how welcoming and engaging my staff is with Wildcat Guy, and their interest in having him around for staff functions - such as our annual pumpkin carving contest.

...the creativity my students have.

...looking at my dinner plate tonight and enjoying the yin and yang of the "healthy" factor.

...the obvious, but still brilliant decision to use leftover mashed potatoes in shepherd's pie.

...Gru's antics in finding new resting places. (Thankfully, that's the dirty laundry.)

...an early-evening nap to start the weekend when I got home on Friday.

...genuine conversations with students.

...spending a lovely autumn day outside. In the mountains. In western North Carolina.

...getting to relax and enjoy the view on the drive through the mountains. (Typically, I'm the one driving...so being on a bus made for some great sight-seeing on a drive I love making.)

...learning about some amazing and innovative sustainability practices at a "sister school" of sorts.

...the ability to recognize when my heart is being silly, and the patience to let my heart experience those moments nonetheless.

...the way a delicious bowl of chocolate frozen yogurt with peanut butter cups makes a long day seem better.

...his ability to make me feel less stressed - by listening when I vent, by giving me a big hug, by simply being there.

...catching the last quarter of my team's game on TV - and seeing them win!

...a couple of hours of journaling, reflecting and connecting dots.

...apple dumplings with vanilla ice cream.

...feeling semi-caught up by the end of the week.

...an awesome article about platonic relationships between men and women.

...being able to use an old sticker from my stash.

...a guilty pleasure on Saturday-night TV.

...getting better at turning the TV off.

...assembling treat bags for my student staff.

...a laidback Saturday morning set to new and favorite music.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok

two-page tuesday: weekend edition

2011-10-30T23:16:00.004-04:00

One of the dilemmas in buying sheets of stickers for my scrapbook pages is what to do with the leftovers. Because, inevitably, there are leftovers. And even though I keep them neatly organized in my storage binder, I've been storing (and carting around) some of these stickers for years. The challenge of using leftover stickers becomes even more difficult when the stickers are super-specific - such as the extra University of South Carolina stickers I have from my campus visit as a Region Consultant. Six years ago. What do I do with those??

Tonight, I found my answer! I could never have imagined that I would ever use one of the leftover South Carolina stickers on a scrapbook page about a University of Kentucky football game...but that's exactly what I was able to do. Amazing.

And they say being a packrat doesn't pay off. Bah. (And no - I have no idea how I happened to remember that I even had those stickers tucked neatly away in my storage binder. Let's call it scrapbooker's luck!)

Sadly, I had no similar sticker available for the Western Kentucky game. So I resorted to cutting out the logo from the game program (which you'd be able to see, if not for the unfortunate glare to the top right of the UK wildcat logo).

What's that? You say the two layouts look similar? Well, of course. Because when there are layouts for three different football games to be made (including the Georgia game, which I didn't get to finish tonight), it just made sense to design one layout for all three, especially when I knew that certain elements that would be the same from game to game - such as the ticket, the newspaper headline and the now-traditional self-portrait of me and Wildcat Guy.

I was so happy to sit and scrapbook, even for just the hour and a half that I had...and so pleased with the results!

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Girl in Transition by Jean Kwok

two delicious treats in one

2011-10-29T21:58:00.003-04:00

This recipe is absolutely wonderful! It takes two classic desserts and combines them into one delightful treat.

Because really, when you start with this assortment of ingredients, what could go wrong?

But I have to admit - I was skeptical of the raw vegan cookie dough made from a base of cashews and oats...

...until I realized how super easy it is to make, how genuine it tastes, and how convenient it makes this no-bake recipe.

I couldn't resist a picture of this lovely pile of marshmallows. (But note to self - when the recipe says to grease your hands before molding the rice krispies-marshmallow mix into the pan, you should take that seriously.)

Mmm! My student staff (two of whom served as my guinea pigs) agree - these are super-tasty! They're not as thick as I'd expected from the pictures in the original recipe...so I'm thinking that I might use an 8x11 pan next time for a thicker, chewier bar...but I definitely consider these a yummy success.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Girl in Transition by Jean Kwok

torn out: from smithsonian magazine

2011-10-27T22:40:00.001-04:00

(I was excited when I saw the cover story for this month's Smithsonian magazine.)

(There was an interesting article discussing the realism of this 1951 photo by photographer Orkin. I particularly liked this sentiment from the article's author: "photographs, deservedly or not, carry the promise of literal truth for most viewers.")

(I have seen only six of these ten tearjerkers. And the only one that has brought me even close to crying is "The Notebook.")

(This was an amazing article about a Buddhist monk's ecology study of a local bird species.)

(After seeing this unsettling exhibit when I was in DC in August, it was interesting to read a bit of behind-the-scenes information.)

(There's a Jefferson Bible? Who knew?!)

(Here's the cover story! It's always great to read about innovative ideas being used to address ecological concerns.)

(I had never realized that Marie Curie won not one, but two Nobel Prizes. I really enjoyed the lengthy article about her life and scientific experiences.)

(Although this article about John Howard Griffin - author of the book Black Like Me- touches on the complexities involved in a white man speaking on behalf of black populations during the civil rights movement, I still find it amazing to hear even a little about what Griffin endured, and am looking forward to finding a copy of the book to read.)

Source: October 2011 issue of Smithsonian magazine

this week was good because of...

2011-10-23T22:56:00.005-04:00

...my new rain coat keeping me wonderfully dry during this week's rainstorms.

...this stunningly simple, heartfelt reflection that gave me great pause about my own aspirations, especially this particular line: "Maybe a higher calling isn't as high as some of us are searching for."

...pumpkin pie frozen yogurt that tasted just like pumpkin pie.

...a delicious dinner with Wildcat Guy and Mama Wildcat.

...remembering that sometimes, being a supervisor to students means long heart-to-heart conversations that don't have easy answers.

...a great mascara that seems pretty eco-friendly, too. (Although I'm sad it's not from my usual line of cosmetics, I'm happy to have found a mascara I like this much.)

...the flexibility to manage my own work hours - especially after two long days to start the week.

...this "bear-y" adorable line of chocolates that I saw at the drug store today.

...finding CD's at the library that I've been interested in listening to.

...my student staff being so welcoming to Wildcat Guy.

...this sweet note from the student who cat-sits for us when she returned my apartment key.

...spending an afternoon as a judge for the debate tournament on campus.

...the imported-from-Detroit pretzels that we've been snacking on.

...the dedication and inspiration in this beautiful creative effort.

...yummy cheese sauce.

...exciting news about a favorite animated film.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished Marshmallows for Breakfast

this week was good because of...

2011-10-16T23:52:00.004-04:00

...our 2nd annual trip to a local pumpkin farm.

...a gorgeous Saturday afternoon to spend together.

...finding not one, not two, but three pumpkins to bring home.

...Wildcat Guy successfully navigating us through the corn maze.

...simple little pleasures like sharing a funnel cake and taking a hay ride.

...homemade pumpkin ice cream that was oh-so-delicious and creamy.

...a card from a former student that blessed and touched my heart in so many ways.

...an October Sunday of high 70's and sunshine.

...the delightful wine-and-cheese wedding shower for a colleague.

...not setting my expectations too high.

...the arrival of honeycrisp apples at the grocery store.

...news of a friend's engagement.

...being able to let go of a very stressful second half of the week to start fresh tomorrow.

...spending a couple of days on a beautiful private-college campus for a professional conference.

...the opportunity to co-facilitate a program at that conference.

...good conversations with colleagues at institutions across the state.

...lounging in a luxurious hotel bed with lots of pillows.

...finally watching a very cute animated movie.

...baking and decorating a lovely chocolate cake for one of my staff members on her birthday.

...her happy reaction and appreciation.

...making a strawberry cheesecake for another staff member's birthday.

...enjoying the leftover strawberries, dipped in chocolate, with Wildcat Guy for dessert tonight.

...a sweet bouquet of autumn-y orange flowers from my love.

...success at finding a new hair stylist.

...good conversations about tough decisions and the unwavering sense of "together, we'll figure this out."

...introducing Wildcat Guy to hot-off-the-conveyor glazed doughnuts at Krispy Kreme. (Because that was a life experience he really needed to have!)

...the campus 5K that I almost didn't attend, but that ended up being the best thing I could have done for myself (and my mental health) on Saturday morning.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished Miss Peregrine's School for Peculiar Children

this week was good because of...

2011-10-09T23:08:00.003-04:00

...a surprise weekend with my three best friends. (More on that to come!)

...laughing until our cheeks and stomachs hurt.

...the joy of being loved by friends' little ones.

...his welcome-home hugs.

...a lovely henna tattoo at the campus fall festival.

...cotton candy and funnel cake.

...hearing one of my favorite songs on Pandora on Monday morning.

...baking cake with his Mamaw's recipe.

...the compliment of his coworkers liking this cake as much as they do.

...a raccoon sighting outside Wildcat Guy's apartment.

...getting a very productive week at work squeezed into three days.

...a cat-sitter who truly enjoys spending time with Gru.

...fun stamps on a package from home.

...the perfect new rain coat that my Grandpa bought me for my birthday.

...a really cute news feature.

...pork chops from a local farm.

...exchanging jokes with Wildcat Guy about which pigs these pork chops came from (oink, oink!).

...a sweet little autumn wish left on my bulletin board at work.

...eating pancakes with students.

...realizing our wedding is now less than two years away.

...the now-traditional bag of M&M's from my birthday "twin" at work.

...a Board of Directors meeting filled with enthusiasm and productivity.

...marking recipes in the cookbook Mom & Dad gave me for my birthday.

...a dinner-and-a-movie night with Wildcat Guy.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: the October issue of Smithsonian magazine

this week was good because of...

2011-10-02T23:05:00.007-04:00

...my 33rd birthday!

...feeling loved and spoiled by family and friends.

...wonderful gifts - including a trip to Cuba next summer. Yes, Cuba. A-mazing.

...a Friday birthday made even better by using a comp day to create a three-day weekend.

...being away from campus for two days. Because as much as I love my work, a short getaway was much appreciated.

...a free venti iced chai from my favorite coffee chain.

...birthday treats from the businesses I patronize - the drink, a coupon to the scrapbook store, a free pastry from Panera. I know, I know - it's just good marketing. I still appreciate the gesture.

...treating myself to a two-day crop at the local scrapbook store.

...a very productive two days of creativity, thanks to some pre-crop preparation.

...working through the stack of photos that needed scrapbooking - some of which have been sitting for entirely too long. (Because that date is not the event date - it's the print date.)

...doing a little bit of reorganizing for my supplies.

...a gorgeous sunset on our way to dinner.

...the simple delight of driving somewhere together - of holding hands, laughing and singing along to the radio.

...birthday dinner at one of my favorite restaurants, where the food is tasty, and the decor is lovely.

...remembering to save room for dessert.

...more birthday sweets than I could have imagined.

...a midweek moment of, "life is good today."

...appreciation for the sense of community and team I see amongst my staff.

...baking pumpkin bread for my Grandpa on his birthday.

...an evening with Wildcat Guy and my family.

...wonderful surprises in my mailbox - two postcards and a birthday card.

...a well-facilitated judicial hearing.

...cultivating a solid working relationship with my judicial partner.

...sweater weather.

...snuggling into his king-size bed for the night.

...finishing all the trainings I've been helping with.

...a sweet picture on a dog calendar at the bookstore.

...looking but not buying.

...letting myself enjoy overly fabulous, but quite uncomfortable heels for about thirty seconds.

...one of my favorite worship songs at church this morning.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: the October issue of Kentucky Monthly

a very sweet birthday, indeed!

2011-09-30T23:56:00.001-04:00

A birthday just isn't a birthday without some kind of delicious dessert, right? And if one is good, then why not two? Or maybe even four?

There was the divine chocolate chip cookie sundae - served in a cute little cast iron skillet - that I had at my birthday dinner tonight. Mmmm. This was possibly the best chocolate chip cookie I've ever had - the kind that, when served warm, just melts in your mouth. Then it's topped with creamy vanilla ice cream? Absolutely perfect.

And for the joint celebration of my and my Grandpa's birthdays (his was yesterday), he and Mom picked out these delightful little chocolate cakelets from a local bakery. And the only thing that could make a rich, moist cakelet better? Whipped cream frosting piped on and coated in (of course) more chocolate.

But what absolutely surprised me was the lovely gift my staff members baked for me. When Wildcat Guy and I got home from our celebration with Mom, Dad and Grandpa last night, my student staff presented me with not one -

- but two homemade cakes. One of my students had asked me a few weeks ago what type of birthday cake I liked...but then, when it came time to bake, he couldn't remember what I'd told him. So he decided to make a few different ones - an Italian cream cake, a chocolate cake with blackberries, and an apple spice cake. (Sadly, I never saw the apple spice cake...but that's what happens when a lobby full of college students are hanging out for four hours, waiting for my return.) That's right - he and others baked, iced and decorated three different cakes. From scratch. For me. I was so touched by the thoughtfulness.

Yum! Such perfect treats to celebrate 33.

Where I am: Wildcat Guy's apartment

this week was good because of...

2011-09-25T22:54:00.004-04:00

...a lovely rainbow over the park.

...Friday lunch with colleagues in the campus cafeteria - and the students' curious surprise at seeing us there.

...playing miniature golf with Wildcat Guy.

...his growing comfort with my camera (even when I don't realize he's taking pictures).

...having a decent game of mini-golf. Decent enough that I won!

...moments together that feel real and normal and amazing.

...the return of apple streusel french toast at Cracker Barrel.

...successfully facilitating or co-facilitating four trainings in two days.

...my student staff's amazing, endearing creativity that results in activities like armchair forts in which to watch Disney movies.

...smores and good conversations on the back lawn of my hall.

...eating the last square of brownie right from the pan.

...a beautiful acoustic cover of a song I really like.

...the pumpkin-decorating version of Lite Brite. So cool!

...feeling like this week has been a great example of work-life balance.

...Christmas crafts and decor at Hobby Lobby. Super early? Yes. But who can deny the little-kid sense of wonder at seeing the first glimpses of the Christmas season to come?!

...the first win of the football season. Finally!

...a delicious pumpkin muffin that he got for me from the campus bakery.

...kind, encouraging words from former students that warm my heart and affirm the work I do.

...Gru enjoying the open windows. Even if he wasn't interested in the two squirrels playing on the tree.

...news of a friend's engagement.

...pepperoni calzones for dinner.

...a sermon at this morning's service that has prompted much thought and reflection.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Clay's Quilt by Silas House

torn out: from in style

2011-09-24T20:50:00.004-04:00

(I showed this dress to Wildcat Guy and he said, "that looks like you." It also reminds me of pictures of my mom when I was a toddler. Very sassy and fun dress proving yet again why I like JCPenney.)

(I've never been a fan of the Kardashians...but I am a huge fan of this section of Khloe Kardashian's shoe closet!)

(This sentiment in a Danskin ad sums up my feelings about hiking in such a lovely way. The sideways upload, though? Not so lovely. My apologies.)

(You have a 1 in 4 chance of guessing which dress I like in this set. Wildcat Guy guessed right away. Can you?)*

(Yes. Yes, it should.)

(This spread about Dylan Lauren's wedding was so fun! I don't anticipate having such a colorful affair, but the theme - and how thoroughly they carried it out - was inspiring.)

(This might be the first recipe I've ever seen that makes me want to try bourbon.)

(Yes, I already have a pair of brown knee-high boots. That doesn't mean I can't admire others, right?)

(This list by the September cover girl - the ever-fabulous Beyonce - was neat to read. I particularly liked #4.)

Source: September 2011 InStyle magazine

* If you guessed the green one on the left, you win the gold star! I don't know why I enjoy the 70's flowy styles so much, but I just can't help myself.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

ready, set, picture!

2011-09-23T23:23:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, there was a self-timer photo challenge posted on one of my favorite scrapbooking blogs. I hadn't planned to participate, because I don't typically use the timer for my self-portraits and I'm often too critical of the final result...but last night, when Wildcat Guy and I were playing miniature golf, I couldn't resist a snapshot of me and him.

Perfect? No. Fun? Of course.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer

two-page tuesday: planning

2011-09-21T23:55:00.001-04:00

Okay, so there aren't actually pages to show for the time I spent scrapbooking tonight (not Tuesday). But I got so much work done! I spent more than two hours sorting through stacks of pictures I've had printed for (in some cases) months, designing layouts, picking paper and accents out of my supplies on hand, making a list of what other supplies I need to purchase...because with scrapbook events for two weekends in a row next month, I needed to figure out what I'm going to work on and prepare accordingly.

But apparently, the one thing I wasn't doing enough of tonight was paying attention to Gru. Never mind that I happened to be working on a page layout. Never mind that there was an entire floor for him to lay on. If he laid right in front of me, right on top of what I was working on, then he'd have my full attention, right?

Only until I ran to grab my camera. Just like a good scrapbooker would.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: a back issue of The Chronicle of Higher Education

this week was good because of...

2011-09-18T22:55:00.004-04:00

...an absolutely lovely day off with Wildcat Guy in Pigeon Forge.

...striking a fun balance between planning our day and going with the flow.

...delicious, perfectly crisp bacon (and some yummy, dense chocolate chip pancakes, too) at one of the many pancake houses on the main drag.

...talking about our wedding plans.

...taking an old-time saloon photo.

...shopping wisely at the outlet mall.

...finding out that Oakley makes awesome, sexy jeans...and the look on his face when I walked out of the dressing room.

...awesome, sexy jeans for $15 (84% off the original price!).

...a beautiful strawberry cake for one of my staff member's birthdays.

...seeing hot air balloons lit up at night.

...this bold ad initiative.

...really kind, generous praise from one of our campus counselors.

...figuring out the perfect spot for our eighteen-month mural.

...his help around the house.

...putting together pretty decent meals out of leftovers.

...my new Lady Antebellum CD arriving in the mail! (with a great cookbook, too)

...the much-appreciated details of good customer service - like automatic price adjustment and free shipping (especially when the free shipping could have been invalidated by the price adjustment).

...a nail-biter of a football game.

...fans from the opposing team sitting behind us who were very vocal, but also appropriate.

...giving myself a funky, team-spirited manicure that kept me from actually biting my nails.

...time with Mom and Dad Wildcat.

...the Fusion Skewers at TGIFriday's - both the Mediterranean and the Hibachi.

...a twelve-hour work day that actually felt manageable and unstressful.

...colorful homeknit socks from Mom to keep my toes warm during the minor cold spell late this week.

...enjoying the Miss Universe pageant.

...time laughing and hanging out with residents at a Friday-afternoon social.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Eclipse by Stephanie Meyer

chop, chop!

2011-09-12T22:06:00.005-04:00

In the most recent issue of Semi-Homemade magazine, I found a delicious-sounding recipe for Ginger-Marinated Pork Loin Roast. Then I got to the meat section of the grocery store and realized I wasn't willing to spend that much for a 6-pound piece of meat when I was just cooking for me and Wildcat Guy (and using a brand-new recipe that may or may not taste good).

So I decided to see how the marinade worked for pork chops, instead. That, and a few other small modifications, turned into a yummy pork-chop dinner!

Ingredients **
1 1/2 cups, ginger ale
1/3 cup, soy sauce
3 tablespoons, honey
3 tsp, ground ginger
1 tbsp, minced garlic
4 pork chops

Instructions **
* In an 8x11 glass baking dish, stir together ginger ale, soy sauce, honey, ginger and garlic. (I used a fork to make sure the honey mixed smoothly.) Pat pork chops dry with a paper towel, place in baking dish, and turn chops to coat well in marinade. Cover and refrigerate, turning occasionally. (The recipe said for a minimum of 12 hours. I was able to do it for about 7, and that tasted sufficient.)

* Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Drain most of the marinade from the dish, leaving about an inch in the bottom. Bake for approximately 45 minutes. (My pork chops were about an inch thick...so I think this would have to be adjusted for thinner chops.)

* Let stand for a few minutes, then serve and enjoy!

I completed the meal with baked potatoes and corn...and really liked it! Although I want to make it again some time when I don't have a cold, Wildcat Guy assured me the flavor was good. In his words, it tasted "like a pork roast." I took that as a good sign.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: A Parchment of Leaves by Silas House, and Gorgeously Green by Sophie Uliano

** The original recipe called for the marinade to include 1/3 cup dry sherry and 1/4 cup fresh ginger, finely chopped (instead of the ground ginger). Additionally, because the original recipe is for a roast, the marinade would be completely discarded and the meat baked for an hour on a wire rack in a baking pan.

this week was good because of...

2011-09-11T22:39:00.004-04:00

...going to the season's home opener football game with Wildcat Guy, his family and a colleague.

...the generosity and welcoming spirit that my future in-laws have.

...funky tan lines from my super-cute, very-comfortable gladiator sandals.

...a gorgeous sunny day for football.

...a beautiful bouquet of creamy gerbera daisies and other flowers from my love.

...the card he brought me on Wednesday.

...making myself rest when I came down with a cold.

...remembering 9/11 in a personal, private way.

...avoiding as much as possible the commercialism that seems to have been swirling around this year's observance.

...delightful packaging for a much-anticipated photo mural.

...working through misunderstandings with a colleague.

...adapting a recipe for ginger-marinated pork roast into a yummy pork chop dinner.

...lots of cooking and smart eating this week.

...an enjoyable movie that I got to watch while snuggled up with Wildcat Guy.

...a lovely card design by one of my favorite inspiring artists.

...feeling good about successfully chairing my first Board of Directors meeting.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: Gorgeously Green by Sophie Uliano

this week was good because of...

2011-09-04T23:03:00.004-04:00

...Gru's hilarious antics playing with his tail.

...tentatively exploring the technique of art journaling.

...quality casual time with my love.

...relaxing on a Saturday afternoon with some college football and the latest issue of my favorite wedding magazine.

...college football! (In case you missed my reference to it above.)

...pre-ordering the newest CD from one of my favorite bands.

...a delicious, tangy new recipe for a satisfying veggie stir-fry.

...an invitation to co-present a program at an upcoming professional conference.

...fun results from an experiment with a t-shirt.

...finding a good balance and dynamic with a project colleague.

...local milk in a glass bottle.

...being viewed as a resource for former students.

...the confidence and strength to be candid and firm with students.

...a Sunday afternoon that was quite productive, but felt quite lazy.

...being offered an oh-my-gosh, are-you-for-real kind of birthday present from Mom and Dad. (Details to come!)

...saving my leftover milkshake in the freezer.

...a pedicure with the dark, but stunning color of Black Cherry Chutney.

...being realistic with my expectations for social time with a colleague.

...seeing this awesome graphic on a friend's blog (which she attributed to this site).

...comp days that I can use in place of a couple vacation days.

...what felt like a super-successful trip to the grocery store.

...liberating a corn worm from the cozy burrow he had made.

...putting my corn knobs to good use in the past couple of weeks.

...fresh corn from a local farm for 50 cents an ear.

...ideas for wedding favors.

...watching the original Star Wars on Spike TV. Brought to you by E-Harmony. Seriously.

...recognizing my body's limits.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished I Don't Know How She Does It by Allison Pearson

wi$dom is...

2011-09-03T22:54:00.004-04:00

...looking in my sewing kit before stopping at Hobby Lobby, realizing I already had all the thread colors I needed for the mending that's stacked up, and crossing the store off my list of places to stop this afternoon. This was good both because it saved me money on thread, and because it saved me from the temptation of all the other crafty things there.

...remembering that, if the mending gets done, there are more clothes available in my closet. This might mean trying some new mending skills...but with potentially very budget-friendly results.

...comparing unit prices in the produce section of the grocery store. Because it's apparently less expensive to buy two one-pound bags of carrots (at 69 cents each) than to buy one two-pound bag (at $1.55).

...making as few trips to the grocery store as possible each month.

...getting better at anticipating my grocery needs - for the week ahead (for perishables like milk, fruits and veggies), for the next couple of weeks (for less perishable meal ingredients like meats, grains and some dry goods), and for the month (for frozen foods, paper products, cosmetics and other dry goods).

...taking advantage of birthday discounts (especially when they can be used with standing discounts for members or frequent shoppers).

...recognizing when and how it's okay to splurge on a few little things.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: I Don't Know How She Does It by Allison Pearson

hearty vegetarian chili

2011-08-29T12:30:00.004-04:00

One of the biggest challenges that I've experienced with vegetarian recipes is how unfulfilling they can be. It feels like I eat enormous portions, only to have my tummy feel less than satisfied. Or sometimes I'll use a meatless substitute to add "volume" to a meal...but I don't always like the processed nature of those. But this recipe for Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili was so filling and hearty - even my 6'5" manly-built fiance felt full! - and it was so ridiculously easy to prepare!

(starting with chopped veggies)

(adding spices and black beans)

(putting all that in the not-really-sideways crockpot with some vegetable broth)

(spooning it into a bowl six hours later, ignoring the muted colors and enjoying!)

The only change I made was to leave out the fire-roasted tomatoes (since I'm not a fan) - but in the comments section on the original recipe, someone mentioned adding tomato paste. I may try that next time (because there will definitely be a next time!), to see how that changes the flavor or texture. Wildcat Guy and I also talked about trying it with shredded rotisserie chicken - either mixed in or on the side - for a little something extra. Or not. Because it really is that good without any meat.

Now all we need is some cooler weather - because something this hearty and yummy will be perfect for fall and winter!

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: my to-do list

this week was good because of...

2011-08-28T23:48:00.005-04:00

...Friday evening on the lawn, relaxing and reading.

...the luxury of a free weekend (the first of this month!).

...gorgeous mild weather - making a free weekend even better.

...a yummy, satisfying new recipe - made in my crockpot!

...the comfort of returning to our normal Sunday routine.

...the way today's sermon really connected with the stress my heart has been feeling.

...his help designing a fun poster.

...taking advantage of a fabulous offer to try a new product.

...Gru sitting on my lap!

...Wildcat Guy sneaking a picture when I asked him to get me the camera.

...fresh corn from a local farm. Complete with a fat little worm.

...getting better at planning menus with some flexibility to include produce I pick up from the farmers' market.

...celebrating a little girl's first birthday in spirit, if not in person.

...a lovely "dinner and a movie" night with Wildcat Guy.

...the perfect thank-you cards for my student staff.

...a highly productive, "cross lots of things off my to-do list" kind of week.

...interesting developments at work that are spurring healthy debate about organizational mission and vision.

...good food and good chitchat during lunch with colleagues on the patio of a local cafe.

...learning healthy rhythms in conversations with one of my newer colleagues.

...the excitement of football season starting.

...looking forward to games - even if it's his team, not mine. (Hey, football's football.)

...an absolutely beautiful quote that was shared by a colleague and has inspired me all week long.

...time to reflect and play in my journal on Saturday afternoon.

...the tasty "using up my leftovers" version of a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup...or maybe a french bread pizza?

...experimenting with leftovers - because, as a colleague put it, what's to lose? I'd have thrown it out otherwise.

...being crafty and making a new wreath to hang next to my apartment door.

...making good use of the small chunks of down time before and after work.

...daily entries for a fantastic giveaway.

...early conversations about our wedding guest list, that promise to be interesting as we get closer to finalizing it in about a year.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished Joy for Beginners by Erica Bauermeister

two-page tuesday: card-sized

2011-08-23T23:43:00.005-04:00

Yay! I got to work at my scrapbook table tonight. After a hectic few weeks, it felt so nice to sit and play with supplies...

...not for pages, but for a couple of cards for two dear little girls whose birthdays are this month.

This one is for the older sister (who will be 3)...and yes, I realize that it doesn't automatically scream, "three year-old." Oh well. I hope she'll like the colors and the shapes.

And this one is for the younger sister (who will be one). The "d" is the initial for her first name...with a tied-in message on the inside.

It felt so satisfying to spend even a little bit of time scrapbooking...and even moreso because of what these little bits of love are celebrating.

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: the fat September issue of InStyle

this week was good because of...

2011-08-21T22:59:00.004-04:00

...a beautiful Saturday morning.

...patience and wisdom.

...a colorful bouquet of daisies from Wildcat Guy.

...the random fun facts he shares from his iPhone app. Because how else would I learn that the liver filters 40 gallons of blood each day?

...a delicious tray of deviled eggs.

...making meals for my student staffs.

...the morning devotion time hosted by our student chaplains at the beginning of each day of training.

...super-easy, very yummy lemon pudding pie.

...the hilarious moment, as I was ending a phone call with a student staff member, when she totally forgot whom she was talking with and said, "Love you. Bye."

...his willingness to help with the dishes. Not once...not twice...but three different times!

...surviving a week of late nights and early mornings.

...keeping the focus on providing an experience the students would find seamless.

What made your week good?

Where I am: home
What I'm reading: just finished re-reading Prints Charming by Rebeca Seitz