Hanging by a Thread

Should Be...

2009-12-06T11:44:00.000-08:00

Reading.
Studying.
Stressing.

But, oddly enough, I am doing none of those things. Nevermind that Finals start this Monday and I have 3 comprehensive Nursing Exams and 1 comprehensive Pathophysiology exam. I just don't really feel like studying. This is really weird for me because I'm usually pretty gung-ho about studying and schoolwork. I've worked really hard throughout the semester and am confident that I've got passing grades, so I'm not too worried about my slacking off right now.

Now, on to a much more pleasant and fun topic. Christmas!

I have got a few things on my wish list (several of which I already know are under the tree).

This little puppy is definitely numero uno on the list right now. Being the only coffee-drinker in the house, I would love to have a single-cup coffee maker. Have any of you had any experience with a Keurig? I'd love to know your thoughts.

I've wanted a pretty pair of diamond stud earrings since my birthday in September. Folks, I never knew how pricey earrings were! Matt and I shopped around for my birthday but every pair that had diamonds big enough to see with an unaided eye were way out of his price range. Luckily enough, I snagged this pair on Black Friday for $200 off the regular price. Needless to say, I definitely made Matt's Christmas shopping pretty easy this year.

Zazzle.com has the cutest custom-made Keds. I love these shoes because they are so comfy and casual. Here are a few of my favorite designs.

Vintage Bird Wrapping Paper

Vintage Buttons

Garden Flowers

Yellow Garland

What's on your wish list?

AMAZING!!!

2009-11-20T09:39:00.001-08:00

Last night my sister Tarra and I got to see New Moon at midnight.
Talk about amazing! I loved it. The quality of the film was much improved over Twilight and the acting was exceptional. I also thought New Moon had more comedic moments that Twilight did. It also did a great job of depicting the emotions of the characters. I teared up during the goodbye scene and could hear sniffling throughout the theater.

I am definitely back in the "Twilight" craze and can't quit thinking about it all. I'm going to try to re-read the books over Christmas break because I read through them so fast the first time. I'm obsessed all over again.

Now, the countdown is on for June 30, 2010 when "Eclipse", the third book in the series comes out. Eeee I can't wait!

Any fellow, Twihards out there that have seen the movie or have plans to? What did you think?

Better Late than Never. Right?

2009-11-12T15:38:00.000-08:00

I know this post is a little on the late side. Okay, alot on the late side.

A few weeks ago I got to meet Pioneer Woman in the flesh.

She was so sweet and the book signing was so much fun despite the long time waiting in line. You'd think that with all the publicity Ree gets, she'd act like the "celebrity" she is. No way. She was so modest and you could tell she was nervous speaking to the few hundred or so eager fans sitting before her.

When I finally got my turn to get mine and my friend Melissa's cookbooks signed it was hilarious to see how she signed everyone's book. She'd just write random things. For instance, she wrote "Beautiful Kids! -PW/Ree" in the cookbook of a woman ahead of me who was toting her two, tired children. For mine, she kept saying "You are so pretty!", which I thought was hilarious.

Now, I've got a plan to try out one of her recipes at least every other week (say goodbye Weight Watchers plan)

First up on the agenda:

Peach Crisp with Maple Cream Sauce, yum!

(Photo courtesy of thepioneerwoman.com)

For all of you PW fans, what is your favorite recipe of hers? Is it the infamous MM Sandwich or her decadent Creamy Mashed Potatoes? I'd love to know!

Going to the Party!

2009-10-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

Today is the release of Pioneer Woman's Cookbook.

And, guess where she is having her release party?

Tulsa, Oklahoma.

And guess who lives only a short drive from Tulsa?

Me!

Yep, I'm going to the "Meet Pioneer Woman" book signing party tonight to get my own signed copy of her cookbook and one for a friend.

In other news, I started clinicals yesterday. I'm at a small county hospital so it's not too intimidating. We get to do a Med/Surg rotation for 4 weeks, then I'll be in the ER 1 week and in Outpatient Surgery for a week too. I'm most excited about the last 2 rotations because I already work on a med/surg unit at my job.

Also, I'm sick today. I've been amazed that I haven't had even so much as a cold this season. Not anymore. I've got the classic symptoms, runny nose/sore throat/ swollen tonsils. This morning when I woke up, I spit up some bloody sputum. Not sure what that's all about, but a friend insists I need to get to the doctor. We'll see.

Well, I'm off to do some homework. I'll let y'all know how the PW book signing goes.

Randomness

2009-10-20T08:38:00.000-07:00

It seems that my blogging funk is still in full force. I'm having a hard time finding anything to write about so here is a bit of what's floating around in this brain of mine.

Currently I am pissed at my Statistics professor. We do all our exams online. The stated deadline is 11:59 pm on Sunday nights. So, I'm doing my exam Sunday night(because I just got off Fall Break and who wants to do a test over Fall Break???) and it cuts me off at 11 pm. Apparently the prof didn't set the timer for Central time and instead it's running on Eastern time. My solution is to complete the last 5 questions on the late version of the test so my prof can just calculate my grade from both test forms. Is that his plan too? No! He said I should have gotten it done earlier in the week( WTH is a deadline for in the first place???) or I can completely redo it. He said it was my mistake. I am ticked about having to redo the entire test.

Enough whining about that.

Have any of you made Amish Friendship Bread? I made my own starter a few weeks ago and am loving the bread. I bake every 10 days so we have a pretty consistent stock of the yummy cinnamon bread. I also have been adding a Pecan Streusel to it. Simply delicious!

Okay, I have a confession to make. Would you call me obsessive if I told you I bought tickets to see the Nov 19th Midnight Showing of New Moon? What about if I told you I bought them mid-September? Well, I did and I'm stoked! Now I just have to find the perfect Twilight themed tee to where to the big show.

Also, deer season has officially began here in Oklahoma. This means a number of things, including:
1. My boyfriend Matt will continually be "unavailable" during the early morning and evening hours. He can be found in his tree stand with the other love of his life (a.k.a either his bow, muzzle loader, or rifle)
2. I came home Sunday to find my kitchen sink full of raw deer meat pieces (yuck!)(apparently you soak them in water to remove some of the blood and hair???)
3. The smell of Teriyaki Deer Jerky is currently permeating every square inch of our house.

Have a Happy Tuesday everyone!!!

Hello... this thing on?

2009-10-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow bloggers!

Life has been pretty crazy around here lately and I have had zero time to keep up with this blog, let alone any of yours that I love to read so much.

A ton has been going on, especially with school. The first four weeks of the semester I had 21 hours a week of nursing classes so that the instructors could cram in all the basics we needed to know to start clinicals the 3rd week of September. Throw two part-time jobs, Statistics and Pathophysiology classes into the mix and I just now feel like I'm coming up to breathe.

I have to keep reminding myself that I did sign up for all of this when I applied to the nursing program.

So, here is a quick run-down of all that's been going on in the past few months since I've checked out

I started WeightWatchers in August and have lost 10 lbs so far. I started at 165 and my goal is 145 or 140-ish. It was much easier to count points before I started classes and have slacked off some. I tried the meetings but had a hard time relating to the women in my group, all of whom were much older than me. Since then, I've just been doing WW online and love all the resources. They have a recipe builder that makes it really easy to count points in the foods that I cook at home. We'll see if I can hit my goal before the year is over.

I finally have my own garden! Matt and I planted corn, cucumbers and canteloupe the first week of August and it's doing pretty good. I picked the first ripe cucumbers this week and am just waiting on my melons and corn to finish ripening up. I doubt I'll have anymore cucs because the deer have all but killed my plants by gobbling up all the leaves. I've heard that spreading human hair (from a salon?) around the perimeter helps ward the deer off. Have any of you heard of any good remedies?

Some big changes are coming up in the next few months. Matt will be graduating in December. His dream job is close to his parent's house and about an hour and 45 minutes from where we live together right now. So, most likely, he will be moving back home. I'm just trying to decide if I also want to move back to my parent's or stay living in our apartment at school by myself. This may not seem like a big deal, but I'm a baby about being alone. I've always said that I never in my life want to live alone. If I do move back home I'll have a 2 1/2 hour commute each day, five days a week. I just don't know if I can do that much driving and keep up with all my schoolwork. Because I'm a worrier and thrive on having plans, I'm going crazy because nothing is set in stone yet. It's all up in the air right now so all I can really do is just wait and see what happens.

I'm babysitting my niece Bailey today and she's smearing her breakfast all over her hair, oh joy!
Gotta go!

The Winner!!!

2009-07-23T20:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, time's up for the Sanuk giveaway! Including the bonus entries for being a Follower and a few for posting on your own blogs, there were a total of 23 entries for the giveaway. And the winner is.....(drum roll please)....

Steph of the blog The Adventures of Jon and Steph!!!

I used Random.org to draw the winner. Number five was chosen and that was Steph's bonus entry for posting on her blog :)

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:

5
7
4

Timestamp: 2009-07-24 03:13:09 UTC

(Someone please fill me in on how to copy the graphic from the website. I only know how to copy and paste the info I have above.)

I've had some big stuff going on this week and will have to post some details later on. I've worked twelves the past three days and am definitely tuckered out tonight so I'm calling it a day and heading to bed. I'll be on a mini vacay this weekend so I'll see you all Monday!

Have a fabulous Weekend and thank you to everyone who entered the giveaway!

Sanuk Giveaway!!!

2009-07-15T20:49:00.000-07:00

It's time for another giveaway here on Hanging By a Thread.

Because it's summertime and I:

1) Hate wearing shoes
2) Get paid this Friday (woohoo!) and
3) Absolutely love love love my Sanuk Yoga Mat Flip Flops

I am giving away a pair to one lucky reader!

I bought my own pair of Sanuk's last year after season and was instantly head over heals. They are super comfy and durable. They don't break down like most flip flops do and the straps never blister my feet. The Footbed is actually made of yoga mat material.

They come in:

Brown

Black

White

and Pink.

However, the sizing is limited for each color. Whoever wins will get their choice of color as long as it's in stock.

So, how do you enter?

One Entry: Leave me a comment letting me know you'd like to get your name in the hat and what color you like most.
Bonus Entry: Let me know if you are a follower in a separate comment
Bonus Entry: Post about the giveaway on your own blog and leave me a link in another comment

Giveaway ends next Wednesday the 22nd at midnight. I'll announce the winner the following Friday.

Good Luck!!!!

Lame Lyrics: Summer 09 Edition

2009-07-13T22:51:00.001-07:00

I love music. Anytime I'm in the car or piddling around the house you can bet I've got the radio, my iPOD, or CMT playing.

It's inevitable to hear some truly awful songs when you're listening to any radio station. Some have lyrics so lame, they're not worth listening to a second time. Don't get me wrong, I sang the lyrics to "The Thong Song" with my friends back in middle school. I even think "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mixalot is probably a classic.
But, I do wonder why do some songs with such lame lyrics become so popular. Do you think it makes the current generation shallow that some of the most popular songs are all about on booties, booze, and skimpy undergarments?

So, I present to you Lame Lyrics: Summer 2009 Edition

1. "Birthday Sex" by Jeremih.

Read the title, 'nuff said.

2. "Alcohol" by Jamie Foxx
She look me dead in the eye, eye eye
Then my pants got bigga, she already knew what to figga

Just because it rhymes doesn't make it good

3. "One Time" by Justin Bieber

The first few times I heard this song I seriously thought it was a teeny-bopper girl group singing. He looks and sounds like he's 12. This kid needs to grow up a little before he sings "One Love, My one heart, My one life for sure"

4. "Honky Tonk Badonkydonk" by Trace Atkins
I know this one is pretty old, but I'd say it definitely qualifies. I mean Got it goin' on, Like Donkey Kong, And whoo-wee,Shut my mouth, slap your grandma. I still don't get the whole grandma-slapping thing.

What's rockin this summer?

"I Gotta Feeling" by The Blackeye Peas. This song makes me feel all summery. I love it.

"Don't Trust Me" by 3OH!3. I know alot of people are critical of this song, but I just can't help but sing along every time it comes on.

"Waking Up in Vegas" by Katy Perry. I just love this one.

"Chicken Fry" by Zac Brown Band. I know this song is pretty Redneck but I can't help but love it. It's lyrics are simple and completely true.

What do you think of the list? Wanna add any songs?

I also want to say sorry for neglecting the whole blog scene lately. I miss reading all your blogs and hope that when school starts I'll have some more computer time to keep up with you all. To my new followers or readers, don't be shy to say hi. I'm more than thrilled to hear from everyone who stops by. Also, let me know your own blog address so I can add it to my reading list, if you don't mind.

One more thing, the 13th was Melissa from New Girl On Post's birthday. She's one of my best real-life friends and a great gal. If you haven't already, stop by and give her your best wishes!

Fruits of Labor

2009-06-27T17:26:00.000-07:00

I've got my first baby tomato on the vine. I couldn't be prouder :)

I blogged a few months ago about getting my garden ready for planting this year. Unfortunately the tiller broke, the soil was too clay-ey and in need of a truckload sand, and the garden spot was so far from water we needed to get a pump system from our pond hooked up to irrigate the garden spot.

So, this little upside-down tomato planter is just going to have to do for this year. I've only got one baby tomato right now, but there are many blooms, so hopefully I'll get a few more by summer's end.

Speaking of labor, I started working last week. I worked three twelves, Wednesday through Friday. By Friday, I had two blisters on my right foot and was an emotional wreck. It's about that time of the month so my hormones are all haywire. Friday morning around 10 am some orchestra music started playing over the hospital intercoms. The Aide orienting me said they play the music every time a baby's born. I seriously started tearing up. I'm sure he thought I was overwrought and probably questioning my coping skills.

I was also on the brink of crying on my drive home because my foot was killing me (new shoes to break in). Overall, though I love the job. I had one particular patient that was one of the nicest people I've ever met, so polite and courteous even though we were only strangers. It seems to be the people like that who make the job all worth while.

I start training next week to be the unit secretary. It will really be nice for these worn out, blistered tootsies.

I've got one picture of my sweet niece to share. I personally think she hung the moon.
She got to go swimming in her froggy pool for the first time. Just look at that beautiful red hair! (It's been so humid lately that my camera lenses fog up the instant I step outside, sorry for the fuzzy pics).

Happy Saturday everyone!

Much Love,

Hallelujah!

2009-06-17T16:29:00.000-07:00

Thank you all so much for the kind comments and encouragement from my last post. You guys are definitely the best! I don't know what it is, but just getting it out there and getting a little encouragement really does a ton of good.

I'm happy to say I did get the job! The HR lady called me yesterday and said my doctor's release would be sufficient to reverse my physical exam results.

I went into Orientation today and will start working on the floor next week. I did my training and clinicals in a nursing home (one of the worst in my town too). It may be shallow, but I LOVE all the new and shiny stuff in the hospital setting. I've always known I wanted to work in the hospital not a nursing home and I'm more excited than ever about getting my RN. I'll be working on the Med/Surg and Telemetry floors which should be good for a variety of experience. Also, one of the floors I'm on has just been completely remodeled so everything is brand new and really nice.

About the Tb test, I go in Friday to get re-stuck and then I'll know the results by Monday. I had another nurse look at my test site and she said it really only looked like I reacted from the serum, no worries.

Also, exciting news. I went to Orientation for the nursing program Monday night. I got to see who all got in and meet all of the faculty. Two of my good friends didn't make it and are alternates so I'm praying hard that they both can get on in anyway. I think we'll have a great group and can't wait to get going in August. I've heard that the first 6 weeks are hell because you're cramming so much information about skills before clinicals can begin. I'm still super excited.

Tomorrow I'm going scrub shopping to get all that I need to start work next. Can't wait :)

Did I mention, you all are the best readers and friends a girl could have?!?

Oh So Blue

2009-06-14T12:01:00.000-07:00

I guess I should have known better than to boast about the job offer at the hospital.

A lady from HR called me Friday to tell me that I didn't pass the physical examination I took the day before. The problem is that I've had back trouble in the past and the job requirements for a CNA involve alot of lifting.

The part that really irks me the most is that I wrote on the exam paperwork that my back problems have been resolved by my chiropractor. They specifically asked if I'd seen a chiropractor so I answered truthfully but that was more than five months ago and I stopped going because, as I said, the issue is resolved. However, the Physicians Asst that did my physical reported to the hospital that I should not be a candidate for the job.

I'm so disappointed. This job is close to home, only a 15 minute drive. The other hospitals in the area are over an hour drive and in a big city. It's hard not to be disappointed and mad at myself for screwing it up. I should have just not put anything about it since it's not a current issue. I went in and talked to the nurse supervisor at the hospital and the doctor at the clinic where I got my physical after I got the phone call. They both said I could write a petition and try to get a work release from my chiropractor, but no guarantees.

In addition to that I went in to get my Tuberculosis test read this morning and it came back positive. If a red bump appears that is 10mm in diameter they will send you to the health department to get another test. Mine was 17mm. Not good. The doctor said it could be a reaction to the serum they used for the test and to not worry. So, I'll find out Monday when I can retake the test and hopefully I'll get a negative. I've done some research and if you're positive for Tb, it means months of a strict daily regimen on antibiotics. I've heard that you even have to go the doctor's office for each dose everyday so they know you're taking it as directed.

The whole job scene is pretty depressing these days, as am I. Hopefully things will go better this week.

In the Summertime...

2009-06-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

This post is just some hodge-podge (is that really a word?) of what's going on in life right now. Sorry I haven't been commenting or writing too much. Summertime has got me busy outdoors and my parent's have satellite internet which is spotty at best. It's usually hit or miss whether I can connect or not.

I had an interview at the hospital in town last week and it went really well. The nursing supervisor wants to put me on "As Needed" so I'll be able to only work one day a week during the school year. It has it's benefits (a $3 an hour pay hike) and problems (I'll be the first cut on shift and won't be guaranteed a certain number of hours).

It's a job though, and it will be wonderful to work at the hospital instead of a nursing home so I'm pretty excited. I'll be working on the Med/Surg and Telemetry floors. I'm willing to work as the Nurse Aide and Unit Secretary which involves entering the doctor's orders into the computer and other office work so I ought to get a decent amount of hours. A huge bonus is the pay, which is nearly double what I've ever made before. It will be really nice to have some money again because I've been out of work since the beginning of May.

I can't wait to go buy my scrubs once I get all the paperwork straightened out. I'm super excited about that!

My sister Tarra and I did some shopping today I found a cute dress at Kohls that I'm in love with. I love the scoop neckline and the pleats on the front. I also got a cute olive green sundress from Ross for $12.99! I've never been in Ross before but they've got some amazing deals. I also got a four pack of heavy highball glasses for only $3.50. I'm always a sucker for a good deal.

Here's the dress from Kohls. I think it will be perfect for a friend's wedding later this month.

I'm making some plans for some small vacations later this summer. The National Holocaust Museum has a traveling exhibit in OKC that I really want to go see. I went to the museum on a trip to D.C my junior year of high school but it would be great to see it again. We have friends living in Lawton which is not far from the City so Matt and I will probably make a weekend out of it and visit them too.

Anyone have any suggestions for places to eat or go see in OKC? Even though it's so close to home for me, I haven't done much there besides the amusement park Frontier City and a few shows at the Ford Center.

In July, I'm going to see Wicked at the Tulsa PAC. I can't wait, I'm so excited for that one!

Have any of you seen it?

I started Jen Lancaster's Bitter in Black a few weeks ago and am reading the first Harry Potter book now. I didn't really like Bitter too much. I keep telling myself I need to finish it, we'll see if I actually get it done. After I read the Twilight series, several people recommended the Harry Potter books. I started the first and am liking it so far. I guess I'm just a fiction genre girl at heart. I also bought the first few Sookie Stackhouse books but am waiting til I'm done with the Harry Potter series to start them. I feel like I'm bombarding you with questions in this post, but are they any good? I've seen several of you fellow bloggers are reading them, so they must be good.

I have to leave you with one recommendation. The movie Starsky and Hutch starring Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson is on AMC tonight. Since I'm watching it while I'm writing, it's on the brain. It's seriously one of my favorite movies, if you haven't seen it yet, "Do it!" You're sure to have a few laughs.

Fish Tales

2009-06-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time a City Girl fell in love with a Country Boy.

She quickly became familiar with the worlds of fishing and deer hunting. She mastered the art of having to pee outside in the middle of nowhere and even showered and layered her body in Scent-Away and camo for a few deer-hunting excursions.

The City Girl learned how to get up to her knees in the garden pulling weeds and how to drive the old 70s model hay truck when the time for hauling hay came around each year.

And recently this City Girl was introduced to catfishing on trot lines and limb lines.

Now she's the one that's hooked.

Friday night I went out with Matt and his fishing buddy to "run the lines". We put out bait after dark so that Alligator Gar and other pesky fish can't steal it. Then, the next morning, the fishermen run the lines again and see how good the catch is.

That's how it usually goes anyway. Friday night we had two big surprises waiting. There was a 45 lb female Flathead Catfish (the big one on the left) snagged on one of the lines. We got the huge 56 lb male Flathead (the biggest one on the right) on one of our freshly baited lines that we happened to check on our way back to the boat dock.

It was an awesome night of fishing and I really had a blast. I even netted the two whoppers! It was funny because when we first got out on the lake, I told the guy we were fishing with that I just wanted to catch a fish this year big enough to take a picture with. I was beyond amazed to accomplish that the first night I went out! Taking a picture with the biggest fish I've ever seen sure was a heck of way to take my first Gone Fishing Picture.

You can bet this City Girl's gonna have these pictures framed!

I'll leave you with this beauty. A face only a mother could love!

How's your summer going so far?

Big News!!!

2009-05-25T19:28:00.000-07:00

I got my acceptance letter into the RN Nursing Program this past Saturday!

Now, it's official and I couldn't be more excited. I've already gotten a few calls from friends that have also gotten into the program and can't wait til our June 15th meeting to find out who else got in. I think we're going to have an awesome group and am super excited about the new lifelong friendships I'm bound to make.

Also, Allison gave me a wonderful award last weekend and since I haven't gotten a chance to get online, I haven't posted about it yet.

What an awesome award, thanks Allison!

The rules are simple: You pass it onto five of your bloggy friends who you've never met in person, but think you'd be the best of friends with if you ever did!

I would choose Allison at The Displaced Texan as well. She and I share the same conservative views and I completely admire her courage in speaking up for what she believes in. Also, she's a Neonatal Nurse, what's not to like?

I would also choose Honey at Honey and Quilts. She's an amazing quilter and I could definitely enjoy some quilting retreats with her. The girl also knows how to have a good time and would be blast to hang out with.

Becca at Lovely Yellow Ribbons is a ton of fun. I really admire her creative side too, she's always making the neatest things.

I couldn't not put JLC at French Kiss. She seriously is one of the sweetest and most kind ladies I've met through blogging. She always makes a point to support others with comments. Her blog is full of optimism, humor and romance for her Bumbee. Her's one of my most favorite blogs to read.

Steph at the Adventures of Jon and Steph is another blogger I think I'd be great friends with in real life. Hello, she's a fellow Okie for one! She's also bubbly and fun. I'm so envious of her amazing traveling experiences and so grateful that she shares it all with us through her beautiful photography.

It was so hard to narrow this down to five because I adore all of you ladies out there.

Also, Happy Memorial Day to all of you. We should say a prayer for our Servicemen and Women everyday and what better way to remember it than with a holiday. I visited Arlington Cemetery on a trip to Washington D.C. in 2005. I was in awe when I saw the vast expanse of the numerous white headstones. Just thinking of it gives me goosebumps and it's something I'll never ever forget.
Thank you so much to all the military wives as well for your own sacrifices while your husbands are protecting the freedom of all Americans.

I would like to thank...

2009-05-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

I got this cute little award from sHw. Thanks so much! It sure did brighten my day.

So, here's something lighthearted to get that yucky last post off the homepage. Thank you all so much for all the encouragement and kind words. It's surprising how good it felt to just get it all off my chest. Also, thanks to my new followers. I appreciate all the support and comments. Don't be shy to speak up, I love the feedback.

Now, here are the Rules:
List seven things that make YOU awe-summm, pass on to seven others, link to the Queen that tagged, and post your award!

1. Holy-Moley! I've got olive skin and too many moles, but I have one that's just above the left corner of my mouth, a la Cindy Crawford. That beauty mark is one of my favorite physical features.

2. I'm a generous person and love to help others in need. I regularly donate blood to the Red Cross and am on the National Bone Marrow Registry. I pray that some day I can donate my bone marrow and help save a life. Enduring a little pain is more than worth it to give someone a second chance at life.

3. I'm 5'8" so I'm tall enough to reach the very highest shelves in the pantry ;)

4. I love with all my heart. I'd say I'm a loving person and Matt and my family are my world.

5. I'm blessed with some wonderful friends. I'm all about quality and not quantity. When it comes to girlfriends, I've struck gold.

6. I like to clean and am probably slightly OCD. I can't ever leave my apartment for the weekend with dirty dishes in the sink or an untidy living room.

7. I like school and love to learn. Considering that it will take me a total of 6 years to get my bachelor's, this definitely is an awesome quality.

So, fellow Queens, tell me what makes you Awe-summ!

I tag:

New Girl on Post

Mrs. Guru

Abbie

JLC

Yours Truly

Steph

Allison

Also, a big thank you to Melissa at New Girl on Post for her Annual Blogging Award. She's a super sweet gal that I'm lucky enough to have as a best friend in real life. If you haven't yet, be sure to check out her two blogs New Girl on Post and A Picture's Worth a 1000 Words. I promise you'll fall head over heels for her, as I and many other bloggers have.

On another note, I'm really enjoying The Host so far. Sure, it's no Twilight, but it is really intriguing and a pretty good page-turner.

My CNA classes are coming along really well. I start three days of clinicals next Monday then take the exam on Thursday. I definitely know it is an extremely unglamorous job, but the main thing is helping people who couldn't help themselves otherwise. Several of my friends work as CNA's to get some extra experience before RN school and they love their jobs because they are helping others and making a difference. I know it's a backbreaking, crude, and often thankless job, but, I'm excited to get my certification and get to working. There is a part-time opening in the Cardiac ICU that sounds really good. It's in a city that's about 45 minutes away but I don't think the drive will be too bad considering it's only 2 days a week. I've got my fingers crossed that I can get hired on quickly.

Until next time,
Hugs!!!

A Clever Title

2009-05-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

I'm in a funk lately and guess I just need to vent.

Sorry you have to be the brunt of my griping...

The Good:

I got my first set of scrubs today for class. I know it's something little, but I've been pretty excited to get scrubs, my stethoscope, and shoes for a while now. I can't wait to wear the whole uniform to class on Monday. I'm sure I'll find this excitement pretty funny in a few years when scrubs are no big thing.

My mom bought a new bed for my room which is the guest room when I'm not around. It's a Vera Wang mattress and it's oh so heavenly. Love it.

Two-hour Grey's Anatomy Season Finale tonight!

The Bad and The Ugly:

The baby's so fussy today and Tarra won't quit yelling at her. She's not very comforting and thinks that since she's her mother she has to yell and be overly stern. Yes, Bailey's throwing fits left and right. Yes, she won't eat ANYTHING but EasyMac. But, I'm sick and tired of the hostility, crying, and screaming.

I've been living back at my parent's for a week now and I'm already fed up with my mom and my sister arguing non-stop about the baby and being stuck in the middle.

I feel like bawling and don't even know why. I'm so overly emotional it's exhausting.

Got my hair cut this evening. Paid $19 to get my eyebrows waxed! (which didn't even need shaped, only cleaned up) Freaked out when I got the receipt. Am less than thrilled with my cut too because she jacked up my bangs.

I don't like blogging right now. I feel like I don't really have anything to write about. I hate griping because who wants to listen to someone go on a rant about their personal problems?

I'm reading "The Host" right now. I think I'll go seclude myself in bed and get some reading done.

Twilight Winner!

2009-05-11T19:45:00.000-07:00

And the Winner is:

#6 Sarah!

Congrats Sarah! Email me with your choice of either the movie or soundtrack and I'll get it shipped out.

I did the drawing on random.org but have no clue how to post the pic. Anyone have a suggestion?

In other news, today was day one of my CNA class.

I was nervous about it because I usually don't like new or unfamiliar stuff, but I was pleasantly surprised. The instructor is easy-going and not intimidating at all. She's also got a sense of humor which made the 8 hour class today go by faster. I've got four classes a week for the next three weeks until I can take the exam and hopefully get a job shortly thereafter. Nothing quite like wrapping up Finals week then starting 90+ hours of classes and clinicals the following Monday. Fingers are crossed that the hospital in town will be hiring.

I probably won't be blogging too much with all these classes going on. I always miss catching up on all your blogs too, so I'll have to squeeze in some reading time sometime.

Hope you all have a fabulous week!

Time for a Giveaway!

2009-05-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

As promised,

It's giveaway time in honor of my 50th post!

I doubt that you'll be surprised by this giveaway as I've probably been blogging enough "Twilight" to annoy most of you.

I also need to gush a little too. Did you know that an Egyptian vampire in the fourth book "Breaking Dawn" is named Kebi!?! I know I'm overly giddy about it, but I've never even met anyone else with my name, let alone seen it in a book!

I knew I liked Stephenie Meyer for a reason ;)

Now, for the good stuff. The winner will have her choice of:

Twilight the movie

Or she may choose the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Even if you aren't a 'Twihard', I bet you'll like the soundtrack. It features artists such as Paramore, Linkin Park and Muse. I bought it last week and haven't been able to stop listening ever since.

Here is a short playlist so you can get a taste.

Create a playlist at MixPod.com

Here are the rules to enter

One entry: Leave a comment telling me what good books you've read lately and would recommend. If you're not a reader, no worries, just say hi!

Additional Entry: Leave another comment letting me know you are a follower or have become a follower
Giveaway ends Monday, May 11th at noon central time. I'll announce the winner that evening.

Also, for you non-twilight fans, I'll be doing another giveaway in a few weeks for some homemade goodies.

Good Luck!

What's In A Name?

2009-05-05T17:12:00.001-07:00

When I started writing this blog at the end of January my life was somewhat in a frenzy.

I had been stressing for the past eight months about making A's in my ranking classes to get into nursing school for the Fall 09 semester. If I made all A's I'd have no worries about being one of the 75 applicants accepted into the extremely competitive program. Not being accepted and having to wait an additional year before starting would have been devastating.

I had just finished my Introduction to Logic class elective requirement which was a semester of stressful hell because I had to learn a new way to 'think' and I was totally unfamiliar with any philosophy courses. Not to mention, I also finished Anatomy and Physiology which was pretty intense too.

I had been late on three payments, mine and Matt's rent and two credit card bills. It wasn't because I didn't have the money, it was in the checking account. I just completely forgot about the statements and didn't pay them. This is soo not me, I'm usually much more punctual about money. Needless to say, I was extremely disappointed in myself for dropping the ball and for having to pay $60 in late fees when money was already tight.

Matt and I had some previous issues arise at that time too and the fighting and stress associated with them surfaced again.

It really felt like I was hanging by a thread, barely getting along.

Things seem to be a one-eighty now.

I'm very happy.

I'm satisfied, calm and excited that I reached my goal for my grades and I'm sure beyond a shadow of a doubt that I'll be starting nursing school next fall. Acceptance letters go out in two weeks so I'll post the results then.

Not only did I pass Logic with an A, but I'm the tutor for it now. It's a job that allows me to get study and homework time in. I also like to help people so it's good for doing that and I've made some great new friends as well. It's really been a blessing in disguise because I was really nervous at first that I either would hate tutoring or would suck at it.

I'm a very forgetful person but I've been more organized and, thankfully, haven't dropped the ball on anything major.

Now that this semester is wrapping up, I have to say it's been one of my best. I'm content more than ever because I know I'm headed in the career path that I'm meant to do. I loved having my first college art course and exploring my creative side that I've neglected.

This semester went by faster than any other but I feel like I've really grown. I've made new friends. Seriously, the first year Matt and I lived in our apartment we only had guests over one time and that was his sister and her fiance. Now I've got a new best friend that I talk to or hang out with daily and many other new friendships that I know will grow stronger.

Matt and mine's relationship is going strong. We celebrated our six year anniversary this past Saturday. Wow, six years! It doesn't seem like it's been that long. I don't really think about the past when he wasn't around. It's like we've always been together.

I didn't expect it to be this way, but this blog has been a great way for me to look back and realize what I've accomplished and endured the past few months.

I don't think I'll change the name of my blog yet, because I'm really not sure what to change it to. I guess it serves as a reminder that difficult and stressful times are common, but they do pass.

This is my 49th post! Because I just love giveaways, there will be a new giveaway for my 50th post later this week. Here's a little hint (probably quite obvious, but oh well)

Create a playlist at MixPod.com

Tag You're It!

2009-05-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

It seems I've been in a blogging rut lately. This tag from SHW was the perfect solution though.

1.Current obsession: The Twilight Saga, I still can't get enough!

2.Namesake: My mom says that a friend of hers in college was named Kebi and she liked it. My middle name, Cedawna, is inspired by my grandpa Don. My mom was a big daddy's girl.

3.Favorite Dinner: Grilled chicken wrapped in Prosciutto with melted fresh Mozzarella, Bruschetta, and Pesto on top. My mom makes it and I request it every time I'm back home at my parent's. Parmesan risotto and Oven-roasted asparagus with Hollendaise sauce are my favorite sides.

4.Favorite brand of jeans: Right now, I'm loving the Favorite Boyfriend Fit from American Eagle. They fit great in all the right places and at $40 bucks a pair, they're simply perfect!

5.Favorite tea flavor: TAZO Passion tea

6.Favorite owned jewelry: I love my Promise Rings from Matt, but I feel utterly naked if I'm not wearing my Fossil watch.

7.Favorite TV show: Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy and Colbert Report, just to name a few.

8.Listening to:

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

9.Bathroom cabinet holds: Everything under the sun... it's like a jungle in there of hair sprays, creams, and gels, clippies, hair ties, floss, nail polish...

10.Childhood dream: I dreamed of being a Marine Biologist or Veterinarian. I promise someday, I'll swim with dolphins.

11.If I could go anywhere in the next hour, I would ... be in Italy with Melissa. I miss her a ton and want to go visit so bad, it would be awesome to visit Italy for a week, or two :)

This is a beautiful photo of Portofino from her last excursion. So gorgeous

12.Person I want to meet: Cheesy I know, but I'm still hoping and wishing I get chosen to visit Pioneer Woman at the Ranch. That woman can cook!

13.Five-Year-Plan: If things go perfectly my way: In two years, I'll have my ASN and RN and I want to get married that year. I'll work part-time while finishing my last year to get my BSN. A year or two after that, I want to have a nice home and some land and maybe a little sprout or two. I also want to get my Master's in Nursing sometime in there after I get my BSN.
However, if things go Matt's way: in three years we'll get married and then wait 2 years to have kids. I'm really trying to work on him to get married sooner but we both are insistent that when we tie the knot, we're on our own. No help at all from our parents, so we need to be doing well financially before any wedding bells will be ringing. Hopefully, he'll just have a good enough job to support the two of us before I'm completely done with school. A girl can hope...

14.Today is special because: I took my Speech final and that dreadful class is finally over!

15.Where I blog: Usually on the couch or sometimes while I'm at work tutoring.

16.My perfect day: Anything that involves spending some leisure time with my fam and Matt. I'm usually pretty simple

I tag:

Hannah Noel

Tara

Yours Truly

Such A Life

The Great Deluge

2009-05-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

As in, the Great Flood.

That's what I'm experiencing today anyway. We've had some major flooding here and everything's pretty bad. I was scared out of my mind on the way to work at the school this morning. The rain was coming down so hard, visibility was slim to none. There was so much water on the roads too, above the curb on most roads. That's about 4-5 inches of water covering most of the city streets. I drive an '06 Honda Civic coupe so I'm pretty low to the ground. My car shook a couple of times like it was going to die. I kept mumbling and praying, "Please don't die, please don't die". Luckily I got around fine, but I saw several cars pulled over with their hoods popped open to dry out the engine.

There are firetrucks, city workers, and policemen all over town blocking off intersections.

This is the view coming down the hill from the school. Looks pretty ominous, no?

And this is, um a Baseball Field, not a pond.

I sure am glad I invested in my pair of Sperry's Topsiders for days such as this.
These are mine

But, I'm now in love with these

And these

Off the Deep End?

2009-04-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

Is it crazy that I'm seriously trying to talk my friend Haley into going with me on a trip to....

It's official, I'm one of those crazed fans, desperately wanting more of the Twilight saga! I finally finished Breaking Dawn last night. I thought it was the weirdest of the four books and that the true soul of Edward and Bella got lost in the translation. It was still pretty good though, just not as good as Book One (Twilight) and Book Three (Eclipse).
Can't wait for the film version of New Moon to come out in November and then I've read online that the film version of Eclipse is due June 2010. I know the movie does the novel no justice, but I still love "Twilight" anyway.

Completely out of my nature, I've already written the papers and done the projects that are due next week for Finals. No procrastination here, so I'm off to get back to reading the "Midnight Sun", which is Edward's version of Twilight. As expected, it's pretty good so far.

For any Twilight fans that don't know about Stephenie Meyer's personal website it's:
www.stepheniemeyer.com
It's awesome and I love reading all the chapters and story lines that were edited out of the final draft of each book.

And if you are interested in TwiCon too, you can go here for the official site.

Happy Reading!

In the Kitchen with Kebi

2009-04-29T13:23:00.000-07:00

Here is my recipe for Enchiladas with Sour Cream Sauce.
I adapted this recipe from the Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook and I really love it. It's pretty easy and super yummy.

I used ground beef in my recipe, but I'm sure chicken would work nicely. Also, according to my recipe the sauce is on the thick side, think thick cream gravy. If you'd like it a little thinner, just add some more milk. I also used the Cream of Mushroom soup and loved the addition of mushrooms.

Beef Enchiladas with Sour Cream Sauce

8 oz tub whipped cream cheese
8 oz sour cream
¾ Cup Milk
1 can Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken condensed soup
1 small can chopped fire-roasted green chilies, drained
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lb ground beef
2 cups shredded cheese, divided
14-16 small corn tortillas

Season and brown the ground beef with some chopped onion and garlic powder. I added some Pampered Chef Southwest seasoning to the meat , but taco seasoning would work well too. Drain the beef and stir in 1 ½ cup cheese until melted through and combined. Set aside.
Heat a half inch of oil in a small pan. Lightly fry the corn tortillas to soften them and then place on paper towels to drain.

Fill tortillas with beef, roll them up, and place seam-side down in greased 13x9 inch pan.

Meanwhile, place cream cheese, sour cream, milk, green chilies and seasonings in a medium saucepan. Heat until barely simmering over medium heat, stirring constantly. (Be careful, it will burn and stick on the bottom really easily) Pour hot sauce over the enchiladas. Cover with foil and bake in a 375 degree oven 20-30 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.
Top with remaining ½ cup cheese and serve when melted.

I got sidetracked and didn't stir the sauce the whole time. It ended up burning and sticking to the bottom of my saucepan. I was just careful not to scrape the burnt portion off when I poured it over the enchiladas and the sauce tasted great. Just don't forget to stir like I did :)

Have you all tried the Rice a Roni Mexican rice? It's delicious and tastes just like rice from a good Mexican restaurant. It went perfectly with this meal.

If you try it out, be sure to let me know if you like it. Enjoy!

Spring Fever

2009-04-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

This week has been absolutely amazing. We've had 80 degree weather every day and even a record high of 91 on Tuesday. Spring is definitely here. The fact that the forecast for the next 4 days includes an 80% chance of rain everyday proves it even further. Matt finally broke down and let my buy some hanging flower baskets of petunias for our porch. They look great but it's been so windy around here the poor things have been getting a beat down. It's pretty Springy around here and I couldn't be happier.

We've got some purple Petunias too, but these are by far my faves.

Tuesday afternoon I jogged for 45 minutes at the nature reserve on campus. It was so nice. There are several ponds with bridges crossing them and tons of trees and paved paths that wind through it all. It was much nicer to get outside than going up to the Rec Center and running around the indoor track. I think it's my new favorite place to exercise.

Matt's gone this weekend to Red Slough, a wildlife management reserve in about as Southeastern Oklahoma as possible. It's practically on the Texas state line. He usually has at least one weekend trip per semester. Last Fall it was six days in Arizona and New Mexico so I'm glad he's not leaving the state this time and he'll only be gone until Sunday. I decided to stay at our place instead of going back to my parent's for the weekend to get done with all of my Final Papers and Projects. Only next week of classes then Final's come up and then I'm out for the summer! This semester has definitely gone by so fast, I can't believer it's already over.

I'm usually a baby about staying here alone, but this time's not too bad. I had to lock the bedroom door last night, leave the living room lights on, and check the window and door locks (twice). But I made it through just fine. It's actually nice to be here alone and have everything quiet to get done with all of my homework.

Tonight I may get out and go to a play at the school. It' based on Shakespeare's Richard III except it centers around a woman named Rachel who murders and sleeps her way to the top. It should be interesting.

I'll have a recipe for Enchiladas with Sour Cream Sauce up sometime this week. My friend Haley and I made it for dinner last week and it's probably my new favorite dish, yum!

Hope y'all have a great weekend!

Miracle Whip Cake

2009-04-22T09:52:00.000-07:00

I posted this recipe over on the Flirty Apron Blog and wanted to share it with all of you too. It's one of my favorite chocolate cakes. It's Miracle Whip Cake.

I know, I know, this recipe sounds funky.
I promise that you can't taste Miracle Whip in the final cake. This is one of my grandmother Nana's recipes, and is my Papa's favorite cake. The cake is not too sweet or rich but the icing really adds a sweet chocolaty punch to it. The icing's so delicious that you could just eat it with a spoon, not that I've ever done that or anything.
Hope you enjoy!

Miracle Whip Cake

Sift together into a large mixing bowl:
2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 cup cocoa

Add:
1 cup Miracle Whip
1 cup water
1 tsp vanilla

Mix well and pour into a greased 13x9 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Icing
Bring to a boil in a medium saucepan:
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup cocoa
1/4 cup margarine or butter
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla

Cook for one minute then pour icing over warm cake.
You could also stir some nuts into the icing or sprinkle them over the cake if you like.

Stubborn as a Mule

2009-04-20T10:14:00.001-07:00

Last night I played cowgirl.

I rode a horse for the 2nd time ever. Well, it was a mule, but that still counts as a horse right? The momma is a draft horse so this mule's back was well above my 5 foot 8 tall frame. She was big. We rode in an arena so that if I fell I'd only land on the soft dusty dirt, however, this was rather unecessary because she hardly even walked. I nudged her sides with my heels, made kissing and clicking noises, and even slapped her rear with the end of the reigns. She took about ten steps in all then went back to the railing near her other mule friend that we brought to ride too. Stubborn, of course.

It wasn't very exciting but it was fun and I got to learn how to use the reigns to turn her, make her back up, make her stop, and occasionally got to tell her to go.
A couple that we're good freinds with lives out at a ranch here in Oklahoma that's called Dry Gulch. Anyone who's from around here has probably heard of the Christmas train that they do every year. The husband, Shane, of the couple works out there as a ranch hand and he and his wife Haley live out there in a small cabin. It's kindof surreal because it's set up to look like an old 1800s western town. Everything is meticulously painted and all of the buildings have intricate woodworking detail. One of the huge lodge buildings overlooks Hudson Lake and the veiw is amazing. I love it out there, it feels like being on vacation or in some far away place. This weekend they will have the trail horses out so I'm going on Sunday for a ride on the trails, and I'm beyond excited!

I also got to see a newborn donkey that was born yesterday morning. It was ADORABLE, it had the finest, bristly hair that stuck out on end everywhere. It was so tiny too. I made buddies with one of the older donkeys too and it kept walking next to me and nuzzling me with it's nose. Being the animal lover that I am, it was a blast.

This is what the little guy looked like. Cute, huh?

Hope you all had a great weekend!

obsessEd!!!

2009-04-15T06:46:00.000-07:00

I've been somewhat detached from anywhere or anything that doesn't involve me curled up on my sofa or in my bed with a Twilight novel ever since Sunday.

Don't worry though, I'm only mildly obsessed.

I finished Twilight and New Moon in less than 3 days, that's only slightly over 1,100 pages though.

I watched the movie last night. Twice. Once with the commentary on and was surprised at Rob Pattinson's English accent, which actually makes him even more intoxicating!

I'm so glad that last week was crammed with tests and projects because that gives me plenty of time to drool over Edward and Bella's twisted romance. I'm obviously a late bloomer to the whole Twilight phenomenon and I seriously can't believe that I've missed out on it for so long. I'm always amazed that a book, simply bound pages of printed paper, can come to life with such passion, horror, humor, and intrigue once I read it. It comes to life. I'm actually in awe of this, and often wonder what amazing journeys and experiences I'm missing out on that are bound in those books I never find time to read. I used to be an avid reader and I really do love it, the Twilight Saga has really rekindled that love for me too. I realize that I've seriously missed the feeling of letting my emotions and my imagination take me away with a good book.

I've gone through all the emotions too. Adrenaline during the passionate kissing scenes, horror through the dangerous vampire adventures, sadness during Book 2 at the heartbreak I felt so much a part of, and of course happiness and humor throughout the cheerful scenes. I've laughed, cringed with fear, and cried throughout it all.

I can't wait to see the outcome of Bella and Edward's romance, guess I'll have to get to working on book 3 tonight!

Even though the movie does no justice to the passion present in the book, I still love it. You can bet I'll be one of the crazies waiting out in line at midnight on November 27th to see "New Moon". I already can't wait!

Thanks to all who recommended the books, of course, I love them! They are amazing!

For anyone who hasn't yet become obsessEd like me, I urge you get to your nearest Barnes and Noble. Click over to amazon.com, and get the books. You won't be sorry. I promise.

I'll leave you with a bit of eye candy ;) One of my favorite scenes...

Friday Fun!

2009-04-10T06:37:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by the lovely Whitney over at Such a Life

Here's the rules:
1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Share 7 things that people may not know about you.
3. Tag 7 people to share 7 things and link to them.
4. Let them know they have been tagged.

Well, here goes.

1. I'm a zombie.
Well, not reeally, but I have an awful habit of sleep walking and sleep talking. Mrs. Guru's post today about her husband got me thinking about my weird sleep induced reign of terror! I pretty much yell and talk in my sleep everynight and sleepwalk at least 4 or 5 nights a week and I'm always angry and hostile every time. Matt usually stays up after I go to bed so he's the brunt of my shenanigans. The scariest time was when we were both asleep and he was jolted awake when I thrust my elbow into his chest and pulled myself up on top of him. He said I was yelling and pointing my finger in his face while my eyes were wide open. He finally got me to wake up and I had no idea what was going on. He said he thought I probably would have cracked his ribs had I hit him any harder. Usually I walk to the office room where he is and crack the door open and stick my face throught the gap. Then I'll slowly open it the rest of the way and start yelling at him about my sister, the baby, or unkown people that are apparently pissing me off. He says I'm mad but my face is just a blank expression like I'm still asleep. I could go on forever with more stories, but I do think it's probably time I make an appointment with the sleep doctor, for both of our safety, lol.

2. I have freakishly long toes and can pick up just about anything with them. I know, very sexy....

3. Cedawna (pronounced sah-dawn-ah)is my middle name and was inspired by my grandpa, Don's name. My mom's a huge daddy's girl. Oh yeah, Kebi is prounced like Debbie but a 'K' in case anybody wondered. I get "Keebie", "Kaby", and "Kubby" all the time.

4. I never played sports, except for a stint doing track one spring. I was a die-hard cheerleader though. I love it! My Freshman year in high school, I probably watched Bring It On fifty times.

5. I graduated Valedictorian of my high school class. I made up my mind in middle school that I wanted to do it so I worked my butt off to get straight A's with the exception of one B. It really paid off with a full ride to college. Now I really want to graduate with honors, we'll see...

6. Shhh, I have a secret wish that I could be a Fine Arts major. I have Art Foundations One this semester as a fun elective, and I'm in love!I love getting to do fun and creative stuff for homework. It's just not me though. I want a job that's intellectually challenging and I know that I'd never be satisfied with myself if I wasn't continually learning and challenging myself. Art can just be a great hobby.

7. I like to do stuff the hard way. I don't why I'm like this, but it's a fact. I'd much rather measure, sift, and stir a from-scratch cake recipe than open a cake mix box and throw some oil, eggs and water into a bowl. I make stuff harder than necessary all the time, but for some weird reason it's pleasing to me.

Now that you know a little bit more about goofy ol' me I want to know more about you!
I tag:

Kirby at Good Gals, Inc
d.a.r at Just Another Day in Paradise
Mrs. Guru at Off the Beaten Path
Abbie at Satisfy My Soul
Lani at Triplets: Who Knew
Allison at The Displaced Texan
Mrs. Newlywed at Misadventures of a Newlywed

Have fun Ladies!

And, have a great weekend everyone! I'm babysitting my nephew Levi and my other neice Audry tonight and am so so excited. I miss them both so incredibly much and can't wait to see them. We're also having Easter dinner and an egg hunt for the kids on Saturday, maybe I can get some pics of the girls all dolled up.

Sabbatical

2009-04-09T21:01:00.000-07:00

I've forced myself to not log on this week because I've had so much on my plate. From a Microbiology exam, a persuasive speech, a humongous pharmacology exam and an art painting project focusing on the study of tonality, I've been one busy girl!

But, everything has gone very well and I'm pretty confident that I aced everything, woohoo!

I feel like I've missed so much and really want to read all the posts I've put off reading. Hopefully, in the next few days.

I need to give a few thank you's out that are well overdue. Thanks to my partner for the Stationary Swap. She sent some great cards, pens and a really neat magnetic notepad.
Also, huge thanks to Dayna for my Tea for Two Apron swap goodies! She sent a beautiful orange, red, yellow and green teapot print apron, a beautiful Bone China teacup and saucer, some delish teas and some cupcake bath bombs. She also included some vintage handkerchiefs with gorgeous hand embroidery. I'm definitely convinced I got the best partner. Thanks Dayna so much, you really went above and beyond!

This is the apron that I made for her, it's a pink and green fabric with teapots, roses, and pink ribbons that resemble the Breast Cancer awareness ribbons. I loved that the sale of the fabric also went toward a good cause.

Speaking of breast cancer awareness, I got my prize from the "Save the Tata's" giveaway in the mail today. I love love love the black tee!

It fits perfectly and hugs curves in just the right way. I was afraid it might be too small, because let's face it, I've been "blessed" with womanly hips and often medium tops are too snug on my hips and booty, but this tee is perfect! I'd recommend it anyone interested in buying one.

My friend Haley let me borrow her copy of Twilight and I've been waiting until tonight, now that I don't have to study, to start reading it. Several friends have gotten through one book a night so I can't wait to delve into it and get to reading!

I was tagged by Whitney to do a fun survey that I'll post tomorrow.

Goodnight everyone and good morning to you gals across the pond!

Catch-Up

2009-04-02T22:52:00.000-07:00

I was looking through my pictures file tonight and saw some beauties that I wanted to share.

I forgot to post about my niece Bailey's Birthday and include the pics of cake my sis Tarra and I made.

Here's Bailey in her ladybug birthday dress.

Here is the Bday cake we made for my nephew Levi last May on his birthday. He loved it. By the way, he picked out the tool candles with my mom so we just had to put them on the cake even though they didn't match the Spiderman theme.

In case you can't tell, we love making cakes :)

Here are someothers that I just really like and wanted to share. Because I love pictures. And I love blogging. So I really love putting the 2 together.

The Incredibly Cute Hulk!

Okay, here's the last because I'm sure you're tired of me doting on my cutie niece.

You do know that something as simple as a spoon can be this exciting, don't you?

Date Night

2009-04-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

Last night I got home from working out at the gym and started thumbing through the cookbooks trying to find a suitable recipe for dinner. Matt surprised me when he said we could go out for dinner and to guess where???

Olive Garden! He hates Olive Garden and the only time we get to eat there is when I request it for our anniversary or my bday. It was beyond delicious. I had the Sicilian Scampi appetizer as my entree with the salad and breadsticks added on.
We also indulged in dessert. I had the Torta di Chocolae which is like a flourless chocolate lava cake nestled on a bed of sweet cream sauce. To die for! I was way too stuffed when we left but it was well worth it.

Yumm!

Tonight for dinner I'm making one of my favorite comfort food meals.
Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

It's really easy, moist, and delicious. Let me know if you try it out and if you like or loathe it.

Meatloaf

2 lbs of lean ground beef
1 packet Lipton brand Onion Soup Mix
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup Pace Picante Sauce
1 sleeve saltine crackers, crushed

Topping:
1/2 cup ketchup (I substituted salsa and it was delish)
1 Tbs mustard
1/2 cup brown sugar

In a small bowl beat the egg and milk
In a large gallon size Ziploc bag place the beef, onion soup mix, milk mixture, salsa and crushed crackers.
Work the mixture until it's thoroughly. Turn it out into a 13x9 baking dish and form into a loaf shape.
Mix topping ingredients in a small bowl. Spread half over the uncooked meatloaf. Cover with foil which you have cut several slits in to allow the pan to vent.
Bake at 350F for 1 hour or until done. In last 10 minutes spread remaining topping on and remove the foil.
Let set about 10 minutes before serving.

6 or 8 servings. This makes a lot so we'll have leftovers tomorrow night.

Meatloaf wouldn't be complete without a side of buttery mashed potatoes. The only thing I hate about boiling the potatoes or pasta is when it foams and bubbles out of the pot. I heard an awesome tip earlier this week to smear some butter on the pan above the water line before boiling.
It worked perfectly!
This was also the first time I used the ziploc bag and it worked perfectly as well. No hands in yucky raw meat!

Enjoy!

p.s. one of these days I'll figure out how to get the date off my pics, just don't really wanna break out the manual.

Too Close to Naked?

2009-03-31T19:22:00.000-07:00

I love Dancing with the Stars this season. I'm so rooting for Shawn Johnson, Ty Murray, and Melissa Rycroft. I just can't pick one though!
Anywho, does anyone think the professional dancer Karina Smirnoff's costumes are getting a little too close to naked?
This one is from a couple of weeks ago. Seriously, the only thing covering her butt crack was a strip of fringe and beads in the back. Just being honest, but I couldn't even pay attention to her dance because I was so distracted by her uber minimal costume choice.

This one is more recent. I think there is a wardrobe malfunction on the horizon.

I just think it's better to leave a little to the imagination.

What do you think? Too risque for ABC?

-kcc

Oh yeah, I'm wanting to create a signature for myself. For you tech savvy ladies, how do you do that? I don't have Photoshop so I hope it's possible without it.

ETA: Thanks so much Abbie, I got it all figured out and it was super easy.

On The Wagon....

2009-03-30T17:08:00.000-07:00

On the bandwagon, that is!

This past weekend while my sister Tarra and I were snowed in at my parent's we bought Twilight on Pay-per-view. Neither of us had seen the movie yet or read any of the books.

It was AMAZING! I loved it and am excited to borrow the books from a friend. I've heard from everyone that the books are much better than the movie so I can't wait to get reading. I'm always a sucker for a romantic storyline!

Tomorrow (Tuesday) my sister and I are being featured on the blog Apron Goddesses
Go check it out! I promise there will be a sweet surprise awaiting you. It's my most requested recipe and I've only shared it with one close friend and a few members of my family. Hope you enjoy! Just cross your heart and promise that you won't enter it into the Tulsa State Fair next year. Now that I've mastered a homemade pie crust you can bet I'm going for a blue ribbon bay-bee!
Go visit this post too if you'd like to enter to win an adorable Mother-Daughter apron set.

-kcc

Ramblings

2009-03-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

Apparently Jack Frost didn't get the notice that last week was the first day of Spring!
This is the front yard at my parent's house this past Saturday.

We got more than 6 inches there and nearby Tulsa got between 9-12 inches of snow!
And the best part of this crazy Oklahoma weather is the fact that today has been sunny and in the 60s, warm enough to only need a light jacket outside. I even saw several people wearing shorts and capris when I was at Target getting groceries. Crazy right?

This week promises to be busy. I've got a Microbiology exam and a Pharmacology test to study for. I also have to get an outline ready for my first persuasive speech, I'm doing it over donating blood. I'm a bit shy and hate speaking in front of people. I've managed to put Speech off for 3 years but had to face the music this semester. I'm doing good so far, but I still get hot and shaky when it gets to my turn each time I have to give a speech.

I'm sending off my partner's package for the Tea for Two apron swap in the morning. I'm totally on an apron kick these days, I just can't get enough!

I promised a garden update last week. Let's just say it's not looking too good. The ground is very moist and packed down super hard so it's been hell on Matt and the tiller to break the ground. The bracket that holds the gas tank on the tiller actually broke over Spring Break, oops! So, the garden has been put on hold. I'm actually not sure if it's worth the trouble and I'm thinking about just spending this year getting the ground perfectly ready for planting next Spring. There are tons of old garden spots at Matt's house that we could till up and put all my veggies in if I give up on my own garden.

Also, I've been trying to get some info about a CNA position at the hospital in my hometown. I got an email from the Nursing Supervisor and am waiting to see if I'll have to get my CNA license or can do on the job training. I'd love to work at the hospital this summer instead of in retail like I always have. I've got my fingers crossed!

How was your weekend???

-kcc

BOSU Blast!

2009-03-25T16:45:00.000-07:00

I have been on a roll this week and have worked out the past three nights.
I know for all you ladies that are in an awesome workout routine, this is probably small stuff. But, I have to admit, this is seriously the first time I've had a 3 day streak without taking a day off because I was sore or busy.

Sunday: Strength Training and Yoga on the Wii Fit
Monday: 2 miles on the treadmill (20 minutes briskly walking and 15 jogging, yep I'm a sissy, soo out of shape!)
Tuesday: BOSU class at the rec center for an hour
Wednesday: 50 minute Pilates DVD and some time on the Wii Fit

BOSU was a ton of fun and super fast paced. I had to take a breather a few times and get back in the rhythm but I really think it will take more workouts and practice to get it down perfect.
You jump, bounce, step, squat and lunge on one of these.

(I had to look up what exactly BOSU was online before the class so I'd know just what I was getting myself in to, haha)
We also did ab and arm work. My whole body is feeling it today.
It was really fun and I think I'll try to make a habit of going each Tuesday night to spice up my workout routines. I'm bribing myself that if I workout 4 times a week for a month, I'll buy myself some new running shoes and a cute outfit.

I've heard that the New Balances with the higher numbers are the best running shoes. I've got Nike Shoks but they kill my feet even when I'm just walking or out shopping all day.
What suggestions do you ladies have for a good pair of running shoes?

Now on to something fun.
Steph tagged me today to do this fun thing where you type in your name and the word 'needs' on google.
Here were my results:
(It didn't even recognize my name and suggested I type Debi, nope Kebi Cedawna is just a funky name)
1.Kebi needs as many funds as I can provide. (Sure do need as many funds as possible, I've got a nasty shopping addiction.)

2.Kebi needs to sell his art. (I'm so ecstatic that my Art Foundations class artwork is sellable, if I was a he!)

3. Kebi needs to be socialized more (Huh, what? You mean there's something wrong with isolating myself in my apartment, cozied up with my computer or slaving over homework day and night?)

4. Kebi needs to be admitted to a madhouse. (After all the school work I had the week before Spring Break, I'd have to agree)

Okay, I'm calling it quits before I get to ten. There's hardly anything with my name that isn't in a foreign language so it's pretty to hard to find 10 things Google thinks I need.

Oh yeah, I have to brag on my sweetheart a little bit. I got home yesterday from work and was dreading the sink full of dirty dishes awaiting me. I walked in the door to hear the swishing of the dishwasher. Matt had unloaded/reloaded the dishwasher and did all the handwash. He also cleaned the kitchen, the living room, folded and put away our laundry, and made the bed! To say I was impressed is putting it lightly. I couldn't quit smiling the rest of the afternoon! We even went over to our friends Haley and Shane's new house for dinner, so no cooking or cleaning at all for Kebi! It was a wonderful day.

Hope you all had a great Hump Day!

-kcc

Spring has Sprung

2009-03-22T14:25:00.001-07:00

This is the first tulip to fully bloom and open up in my mom's flower beds. I'm a complete amateur at photography but I always find that I love the pics that I take of flowers the best. This red tulip is one of my new faves.

Today has been wonderful! I slept in til 11 then Matt and I watched The Golden Compass. I loved The Chronicles of Narnia and really like these fantasy stories. The Compass was okay, but the story line was a little too weird. I've been catching up on the last few episodes of Real Housewives of New York City this afternoon. Last season Ramona was my least favorite housewife. I have to say that this season, LuAnn is definitely pretty low on my list. Her judgmental advice is getting pretty annoying.

Last night we went to our friends Haley and Shane's wedding reception. The location was beautiful, it was held at The Skelly Lodge in Catoosa, OK.

Here are some pics from the Lodge Website and the description.

Skelly Lodge is an elegant eight bedroom Swiss chalet that rests high on a ridge with a commanding view of the Verdigris River Valley and the wooded hills of northeastern Oklahoma. Only minutes east of the Tulsa metro area, we are surprisingly secluded.

Here is the exterior:

Here is a picture of the gorgeous view looking out from one of the balconies last autumn. The beautiful colors of the changing leaves in Northeastern Oklahoma are one of my favorite things about this area. I dream of having an autumn wedding someday and this place looks like it could be a perfect location.

After we left the reception we decided to stop by one of the huge casinos in Tulsa. Most of the casinos are only 21 and over so this was my first time to go to one. We only played the slot machines and I ended up wasting $20 and it wasn't very much fun. I don't really see how people can enjoy going out every night or weekend only to push those buttons all night long. I think I'd probably have more fun playing cards, but the slot machines are def not for me.

I finished my apron for the Sassy Apron Swap this weekend. I had so much fun and it was so easy! It is pink and green and I wish I would have made one for myself! I'm not too sure if my partner reads my blog so I better wait to post pics after I send it to her at the end of this month. In the future, I'd like to sew one to give away to one of you fabulous ladies.

I seriously can't believe how blessed I've been lately! I won several other giveaways in the past few weeks.
First of all thanks to Aprons Americana. I won a beautiful cobbler-style apron that in a giveaway that she hosted on The Apron Goddesses blog. I just got it in the mail this weekend. It's a light green print that has each bird of the states on it. I absolutely love it and wore it around the house all day Friday while I was sewing.

Also, big thanks to Mommy Diaries. I won her great Save the Tatas giveaway! I can't wait to get my tee and tank top and start spreading the word for Breast Cancer Research.

As if that wasn't fabulous enough, I also won 3 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies from Maureen from at Aunt Rene's blog. I've already been indulging in the Tagalongs and Peanut Butter Patty cookies. This was a giveaway held during the SITS Spring Fling. Thanks Maureen!

I'm off to pick up groceries for this week. By the way, I've recently discovered the store Aldi's. Have any of you shopped there before? They've got some amazing deals, especially on their produce. We're trying to save our pennies where we can and I love that I can get fresh fruits and veggies there for pretty cheap.

I'll have an update on the gardening scene sometime later this week.

How was your weekend?

-kcc

checking in

2009-03-21T13:23:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone!!!

I just wanted to check in real quick and say hi.

Spring Break has been pretty eventful and I'm kinda sad that it's almost over. I had hoped to get a lot more done but simply ran out of time. I guess that's how it usually is..

Last night I guess I had some kind of a stomach bug or something. I puked 3 times last night and then woke up at 1:30 am for another meeting with the toilet. Ugh, I HATE throwing up more than anything. My whole body has been aching and I tossed and turned all night. Thankfully, I was able to keep down some chicken and rice soup for lunch and am feeling much better now, just exhausted!

Matt and I are heading back to Claremore this afternoon to go to our friends Haley and Shane's wedding reception. Haley's pretty low key and she really didn't want a big wedding so they instead used the money for a wonderful honeymoon. They just got home last night from Cabo where they spent a week in bliss! I'm excited to get to see some pics and hear all about their trip.

I've gotta get my stuff packed up and headed back to my apartment. Hopefully, I will get another post up this evening or in the morning.

I hope you all are having a great weekend!

-kcc

happy Sunday

2009-03-15T14:28:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Kebi

And I'm addicted

to this

with a little bit of this mixed in

I'm at at least one cup a day and I'm really not sure where my limits are.

My swap partner sent me the tea and wrote in her note that she really liked it sweetened and with some milk stirred in. I've never had hot tea with cream so I gave it a try. The rest is history. I picked up a box of Tazo Berryblossom White tea yesterday at Starbucks and am excited to give it a try too. I'm trying to kick soda out of my diet so the sweet flavors of this caffeine free tea are a great replacement.

I went to church this morning and helped with Children's church. My parent's teach the 4-7 year olds, these kids are a hoot! We learned about the prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah and the kids had a good time answering all the questions.
There's one kid that worries me though. My mom has told me before that he usually has a hard time speaking and his eyes are usually glazed over. She's says that it seems like he's doped up on cough syrup or something. He sat by me this morning and there's definitely something going on. It always breaks my heart when I'm around children that are likely being mistreated. I wish I could just rescue them all.

We got home from church and Bailey had fallen asleep in the car so I made the sacrifice to go ahead and take a nap with her. She's best little cuddler and we got a good 2 hour nap in. My sis Tarra went out last night so I babysat, Bailey tossed and turned all night long so the nap was greatly appreciated!

The weather is beautiful today so I'm headed outside to pull some of the dead flowers from last fall out of the planters. Matt's coming over tomorrow to till my garden one more time then I'll put the onions and potatoes in the ground. Can't wait to get it all underway.
Here's how my seedlings are doing

How has your weekend been?

-kcc

We Have a Winner!

2009-03-12T21:06:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered to win my very first giveaway!

I went ahead and gathered all the names and drew a winner early.

Drumroll please......

Congrats Preppy Princess!
Send me an email with your addy and I'll get the Blue Lagoon earrings sent to you.

I had so much fun doing this giveaway!
I decided to draw two more winners and send them a little something to show my gratitude for keeping up with my blog and being such great bloggy friends.
Those two winners are:

Abbie!

and

Honey!

Ladies, send me an email with your addresses and I'll get your little surprise in the mail too.

I was looking at these pictures and my nails look freakishly long, someone needs to get to the salon pronto!

Hopefully I'll be able to get some posts up next week during Spring Break (woohoo!!!)
For now, though, I'm off to bed for some much needed sleep before class in the morning.

Goodnight!
-kcc

this n that

2009-03-10T21:29:00.000-07:00

Hello all!

How's everyone's week going so far?
I'm so excited for next week because it's Spring Break, Woo Hoo! I'm not traveling anywhere except back home to the 'rents but I'm so looking forward to some R&R.
I can't wait to sleep in some and not have to worry about any homework at all.

I'll be busy sewing for the Tea for Two Apron Swap that I'm part of. I found some McCall patterns at Hobby Lobby the other night on sale for 99 cents each! Great deal, I just love Hobby Lobby. I could go crazy in there if I had a couple grand to blow! I also got some patterns for some cute totes. Maybe I can sew some up and do a giveaway!

I talked my mom into doing laser hair removal last year and I got a referral credit at the Avanti Skin Center that we go to. I used it to buy several Microdermabrasion treatments. I went in today for my 2nd treatment and my face feels like buttah! It includes a mini-facial and massage so I was in heaven for the half hour I was there. I'd recommend it for anyone, it really helps clear up these pesky black heads I have on my nose!

I also want to give a shout-out to a blog I found today through SITS. The blog is called In His Hands. This couple has been trying to adopt a Korean baby for four years now and are finally in the last stages of the process. Many people know that the cost for adoption can be astronomical and they've got a great way to alleviate some of the cost. Fellow bloggers have pitched in some AMAZING stuff and the couple is raffling off the goodies. You can go to their blog to catch up on the details, enter to win the prize, or to make a donation. Not only is her blog a good read, but their journey through adoption is really inspirational.

*******
Don't forget to enter my giveaway, it ends Thurs, March 12th at 12 pm central time.

*Hugs*
kcc

My First Giveaway!!!

2009-03-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

It's finally Tuesday and it's time for a giveaway. I'm going along with the gals over at Secret's In The Sauce and participating in the Spring Fling. They are doing an hourly giveaway and after looking at the sponsors, it's guaranteed to be some amazing stuff. Make sure you head over to their blog and enter for all the goodies.

Here's what I'll be giving away today:

These Blue Lagoon Earrings are handmade by the talented Botanical Bird. If you're a nature girl like me, you'll love her designs. Go visit her etsy shop.

I bought myself this cute Pea in a Pod necklace too and can't wait to get it in the mail.

Here's how you can enter to win these beautiful earrings.
First of all, leave me a comment telling me what your favorite spring accessory is. Is it a colorful string of beads worn around your neck, polka dotted rain boots, or a beautiful flower you pin into your hair? If you don't really accessorize, just leave some love.
Also, followers of my blog will receive an extra entry.
The contest is open until Thursday at 12 pm Central Time. I'll announce the winner Friday morning. I'll email the winner and post it on my blog. The winner will have 48 hours to respond before I draw someone else.

Good Luck!

-kcc

Blessed Beyond Measure

2009-03-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

I can't begin to express how blessed this girl is!
School has been incredibly hectic the past few weeks but I've had so many pick-me-ups I haven't even gotten down or too overwhelmed.

First of all, a huge thank you to Steph over at The Adventures of Jon and Steph for passing the Kreative Award on to me.

Here are the rules: List 7 things that you love and then pass the award on!

1.Chocolate! I love chocolate brownies, chocolate cake, hot chocolate, the possibilities are endless! There's no such thing as too much chocolate!

2. I love gardening. There is something so amazing and satisfying to me to see the tiny little sprouts push through the dirt, later to become thriving plants that bear yummy fruits and veggies.

3. I love Bailey, my niece with all my heart. She's such a bundle of joy and I cherish every minute that I get to spend with her.

4. Toffee Nut Latte Breve from Starbucks. This is definitely my sinful indulgence and they are few and far between. Since it's made with half and half instead of milk it's so creamy and rich, but it's loaded with calories!

5. Sewing and Quilting. I don't get to do much anymore because school keeps me so busy but I really enjoy picking out the patterns and creating something great out of the tiny parts and pieces.

6.I love candles. I always have one burning because I'm a freak about our house always smelling good. Right now I'm hooked on Slatkin and Co. Linen scent and Bath & Body Works Eucalyptus Spearmint, it's so relaxing!

7. More than anything I love my family and my boyfriend Matt! They are the most important people in my life and I can't imagine life without them.

I pass this fabulous award to:

Botanical Bird I love her nature-themed jewelry. Go check out her etsy shop I'm sure you'll find something you love too.

Honey and Quilts Her creativity with quilts is amazing

Mrs. FatFace She also makes some beautiful jewelry. Did you see the lovely purple earring I got from her in the Fave Things Swap?

Shawnee's Tangled Tales She hosting an apron swap that I'm participating in. She sews some amazing aprons and always posts great recipes.

New Girl on Post She's an amazing writer. Her posts are always entertaining and I find myself wishing I could write as easily as she does. She does some great photography too and her Green Enchiladas are to die for, so yummy!

In addition to this wonderful news, I found out today I won a fabulous giveaway hosted by Julia at The Apron Goddesses. It's for a cobbler-style apron made by Apron Americana. I picked out the Birds print and think it will be perfect to wear while I'm out working in the garden.

I've won my first 2 giveaways in the past 2 weeks and I couldn't be more thrilled!

Don't forget to come by Tuesday to see what I'll be giving away too :)

-kcc

Save the TaTas Giveaway

2009-03-06T06:39:00.001-08:00

Well ladies, my dreams of visiting The Ranch are out the window. Sadly, I wasn't one of the four Pioneer Woman chose. Bummer!

On to better news. I found these two blogs yesterday and they both are doing a fabulous giveaway. It's for a gift basket from Save the Tata's, which is a company dedicated to spreading smiles and donating money to Breast Cancer research.

So head on over to these two girl's blogs and enter!
Jillian is doing one giveaway and Mommy Diaries is the doing the second.

Have a great weekend!
-kcc

Edited to Add: I forgot to mention another giveaway. It's at The Zen Cupcake and is for a slew of stuff to celebrate Barbie turning 50! This is an awesome giveaway full of Sephora products and a ton of other great must-haves

From Ear to Ear!!!

2009-03-05T11:16:00.000-08:00

Today has been FANTASTIC!!!

I got up early this morning (6:45 am) to head up to the school to get some homework finished before my art and english classes. In Art Foundations we're displaying all of our projects finished to date to be critiqued by the entire class. I got some great feedback and nobody attacked me over my last project which is supposed to be socio-political themed. I chose the issue of abortion and my piece ended up pretty graphic, so I'm relieved that nobody harassed me for taking such a bold position.

I got home from class to rustle together some lunch and I had a delightful surprise waiting at my doorstep. My package from my partner Mrs.FatFace in the Fave Things swap came while I was at class.

She's beyond amazing and she sent me some fabulous goodies!

We even sent eachother some of the same things; a candle, stationary, and some chocolate goodies. She sent me the Moose Munch Chocolate bar from Henry and David, I've never tried it before and anything with chocolate has to be delish! She also included the book "Post-Mortem" written by Patricia Cornwell. I love to read and can't wait to curl up with this book while I wear the cozy St. Patty's day socks she included.

She sent me these beautiful purple earring that she made herself. How crafty! She even has her own etsy shop full of more of little beauties like these earrings. I also can't wait to try out this Passion flavored TAZO tea.

Thanks Mrs.FatFace, all your goodies are wonderful!

Also, I have one more announcement that I'm EXTREMELY excited about. I love (read 'obsessed') with Pioneer Woman's blog and she's doing a contest to invite four bloggers to come visit her and Bakerella at her ranch!!!! I live less than an hour away from the ranch and I am so entering. I'm praying like crazy that I'm one of the 4 chosen! This would be blast, a cooking tutorial with PW and Bakerella! I'd be in heaven :)

I also want to give a shout-out to my new followers. Thank you so much for stopping by! You ladies are wonderful!

-kcc

Hilarious!

2009-03-04T19:09:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Mojito over at Make Mine a Mojito just posted this on her blog, you need to go check it out. Right now.
It's guaranteed to make you laugh your butt off! Just make sure you turn the sound up, it's so worth it.

http://makemineamojito.blogspot.com/2009/03/fail-blog.html

-kcc

Sniffin Dirt

2009-03-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

That's exactly what's been going on at my house the past two days.
Why, you may ask?
Is it because I've been too swamped with homework to wash any of Matt's stinky man socks?
Is it because I broke the belt on the vacuum and since I haven't replaced it yet, I've neglected vacuuming the place for about 3 weeks?

Nope. It's due to all of these little beauties which have invaded my dining room!

We got our seeds planted. Between yesterday and tonight, we've gotten 127 plants started!

Matt and I always move back home during the summer break from school and last year we had a great garden at his Grandpa's house. This year should be even better though, because Matt's going to help me get my own garden started at my parent's. This Saturday he's going to bring the tiller over and till up the area where we want to plant. So, I'll be frantically following after him trying to throw out as many rocks and big clumps of grass as humanly possible to make the soil ready for planting. I'm sure the whole process will look hilarious.

I'm so excited! Here's the lineup for my garden:
Yukon Gold potatoes, okra, yellow onions, white onions, cucumbers, spinach, cantaloupe, watermelon, strawberries, green beans, corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, jalapenos and cauliflower!

Whew, that's a long list. Remind me of my current excitement when I'm out in the 103 degree Oklahoma sun, up to my knees in dirt, and weeding everything this July.

-kcc

Things are Looking Brighter :)

2009-03-02T12:45:00.000-08:00

This week promises to be busy, but hopefully not as stressful as the past 2 have been.

About my pharm test, I got an A!! Yay, I'm feeling much better about that class and my final grade now. I ended up typing 40 pages of drug sheets that list the uses, side effects, and other details of each drug that we learned about. I also studied the whole week prior to the exam so, I'm glad the hard work paid off.

I ended up taking my nephew Levi and another little girl I babysit named Sydney to the fair on Sat. They're the same age and get along really well. The cutest part was when I picked up Sydney she had put on about three layers of pink lip gloss, getting all dressed up for Levi. But what was really funny was that Levi wore some of his daddy's cologne too. Is that not so cute? It cracks me up that they're only 4 but they try to get all prettied up for one another.

The circus was fun, but it was sooo long. It lasted 3 hours and both kids were ready to hit the road before it was over. They had some tigers (which I'd never seen before at the circus), poodles, elephants, bears, and of course the acrobatic people.
Levi really like the moto-cross guys that drove their bikes inside this huge steel cage that was shaped like a ball. It was fun and the kids acted great which is always nice.

I got my package mailed today for the Favorite Things Swap. I wrapped everything up in polka-dot tissue paper. I wish I would have taken a sneak-peek pic to show everyone. I hope Mrs.FatFace likes all the goodies I sent her.

March 10th is the Spring Fling over at The Secret's in the Sauce blog. You can go to this post to get the details but it should be a ton of fun. Good thing I'm at work that day, I've got some computer time to enter the hourly giveaways! I'm trying to figure out what I'll be giving away on my blog that day.

I tried out a dish last night for dinner called Honey Curry Chicken. My mom used to make it all the time when I was a kid and I loved it.
It turned out great, the chicken was super moist and the sauce was delicious.
I just kindof added the indredients for the sauce until I got it to taste how I liked it, so feel free to experiment with the measurements.

Honey Curry Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, fat trimmed off
2 15 oz cans small new potatoes, drained
1 stick butter
1/2 cup honey
1 Tbs curry powder
1 tsp dried ground mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 Tbs real mustard
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
salt to taste

Preheat oven to 375 degree F.
Place trimmed chicken in baking dish and cut any potatoes that are large in half. Arrange the potatoes around and on top of the chicken.
Place butter in measuring cup and microwave until melted. Pour in the honey, the mustard and spices and whisk to combine. Add salt to taste.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and potatoes. Use a small spoon to move the chicken and potatoes around so that it's completely coated with the sauce.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170 degrees F. I just put my thermometer probe in the thickest part of the breast and waited for the alarm to go off when it reached 170. I'd guess that it took about 35-45 minutes.
This was great served with buttered bread and steamed veggies. We had the Green Giant Healthy Vision medley which is carrots, zuchini, and green beans. They only take a couple of minutes in the microwave and the serving size is perfect for two.

Have a happy Monday everyone!

-kcc

Easy Peasy Banana Cake

2009-02-26T16:20:00.000-08:00

Well my pharm test wasn't too painless, I knew most of it but there was still plenty that I guessed on. Some of these drug names are like a foreign language, there's just no rhyme or reason to memorize them. I know I got the Statin drugs which are used for high cholesterol correct though, because they all end in "statin"! I love the names that make sense, but they're few and far between. It's so nice to just be able to relax tonight, I'll probably even get to watch some Grey's, woohoo!

On Saturday, I'm taking my 4 yo nephew Levi to the circus. They're advertising all kinds of neat stuff including tigers, which I've never seen at the circus before. I'm such a kid inside! I haven't gotten to spend much time with him lately so it will be great to take him to do something special.

I was over at my sister's house a few weeks ago and playing with Levi in his room. Then he started telling me that he asks his momma "evwy single daaaayy" if he can come over to see my parents and I. He crawled up in my lap and hugged me and laid his head on my shoulder for about 5 minutes. I, of course, started crying like a baby. I've missed him so much and I really want to always be an important part of his life. I figured, him a being the busy 4 year old that he is, he wouldn't actually miss me that much so I was surprised that he was so emotional too.
It will be awesome to have some just me-and-him time Saturday and he's super excited about going to the circus.

Now, about the Banana Cake recipe I promised. It never fails that every time I buy a bunch of bananas at the store, we end up with one or two that have over-ripened and are brown and spotted. Since those bananas are sweeter, they're perfect for this recipe. I've been making this cake for about 10 years now (I learned how to make it in my 6th grade home-ec class) and it's always yummy and moist. Just be sure to use ones that are spotty, I think the purely black bananas are too far gone.

Easy Banana Cake
Courtesy of Mrs. Norma Wells, my home-ec teacher.

* 2 ripe bananas
* 1 cup sugar
* 1 egg
* 4 Tbsp milk
* 1 cup flour
* 1 tsp. baking powder
* 1/2 tsp. baking soda
* 1 Tbsp vanilla
* Cinnamon sugar for topping

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9x9 pan
2. Mash the bananas with the sugar in a medium bowl
3. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg with the milk
4. Add the egg mixture to the banana mixture and stir well
5. In a separate medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder and the baking soda
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the bananas, stir well to combine
7. Stir in the vanilla and pour the batter into the pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar
8. Bake 20-30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean

*It usually takes longer than the 30 minutes in my oven, just be sure to check it with a toothpick.

Hope you like it. The cinnamon sugar creates a crispy top and the cake is so moist.

-kcc

sleep deprivation induced grumpiness

2009-02-25T15:50:00.000-08:00

I feel like I haven't posted in forever, and I haven't had too much time to read all the blogs that I love to keep up with. School has been crazy the past two weeks. It just seems like some big assignment or project has popped up in each of my six classes, and I'm having a hard time keeping up. I've been up until 2-3 a.m. the majority of the nights the past 2 weeks trying to finish homework. I have to fess up though, I usually don't start on my work until late, usually 7 or 8 in the evening, so that's the main reason why I'm up so late getting it all done.

I was up til 2:30 last night finishing up a study guide for my Pharmacology exam that's tomorrow. I woke up at 7:58 this morning. I'm supposed to be at work at 8.

So I scrubbed my face, brushed my teeth, and threw my hair up into a messy bun. I was out the door in 15 minutes! That's a huge record for me, I was impressed. Of course, once I got up to the school, the fatigue set in and I could barely keep my peepers open. It will probably be a repeat tonight; I've got to do an outline for a research project for my Art class, study for Pharm, finish up some Composition homework, and do some painting on my second project for Art Foundations.

Why am I on blogger right now???? This is probably the reason why I'm behind, Procrastination!

Now, on to some good news. (After spending five minutes telling you how super busy I am) I've signed up for a few swaps! I'm going to do two apron swaps that are due in March and April, so I'll be busy on my sewing machine during Spring Break come Mid-March. I have to incorporate vintage linens into one and the other is supposed to be a tea party themed apron. I'm excited to go rummaging through some antique shops to find the linens.

I also signed up for a Spring Stationary Swap that's being hosted by Lou Lou in Lilly. If you want to join, hurry on over because the deadline is this Friday. I love stationary and sending snail mail so this swap is perfect for me.

I also won my very first giveaway!!! It's a cookbook called Kissing and Cooking for Couples.

It's got some great date ideas and some yummy looking recipes. It was sponsored by Thrifty Jinxy's blog and I can't wait to crack it open and try out some of the recipes.

Speaking of recipes, I've got one of my favorites coming up tomorrow, it's called Easy Banana Cake.

Also, Whitney at Whitney Caroline Designs is giving away a super cute Monogrammed Note Board. Entries only accepted until tomorrow, so hurry on over. Also, check out her store, I'm quite smitten with her personalized travel cups.

Well, I'm out!
Talk to you ladies tomorrow. I've got to get my horrible to-do list done before I go insane from sleep-deprivation!

-kcc

The Letter Game

2009-02-22T17:45:00.001-08:00

I thought this might be fun to do so I asked Steph to assign me a letter so that I could get in on all the fun! This took me alot longer than I expected it to, but here it finally is.

So, here are some of my favorite things that start with the letter "P"

1. PINK Boyfriend Sweatpants
I could live in these, they are sooo comfy!

2. Pediatrics
I want to specialize in pediatrics when I get out of nursing school.
Just pretend it's the future me in this photo, Kebi Cedawna, RN :)

3. Potato Casserole, specifically Mel's recipe. It's so so so yummy. I could seriously eat it with every single meal.

4. Pretty Woman
One of the classics, I love this movie so much. Besides, anything with Julia Roberts in it has to be good. Ooh, speaking of Julia, I love "My Best Friend's Wedding" and "Something to Talk About". I can't even count how many times I've seen those three movies

5.Pregger Bellies
I know, it's kinda weird, but I love pregnant bellies! I touched Tarra's belly any chance I could when she was pregnant. Someday, some far, far away day, when I'm preggo, I'm sure I'll have my hand practically glued to my baby bump. This is my nephew giving Tarra's belly a kiss 4 days before she gave birth to little Bailey Ann. He was so excited for the baby to be born and he adores her so much now. He's such a great big cousin, Bailey runs to him now to hug him everytime she sees him and sometimes pushes him down in the process. They both giggle the whole time, sooo sweet.

6. Poodles
Especially these two sweethearts. Lacey is my dog, she's the one with the red bow and Tandy is my sister's.

7. Private Practice.
I wasn't too hot on this show at first, but now I'm hooked. I so want Charlotte and Cooper to just have a functional relationship, not too sure if that's going to actually happen though.

8. Perfume
I can't leave the house without a spritz and Chanel Chance, a gift from Matt, is definitely my favorite

9. Puma's
Every pair of Puma's I've ever owned were my favorite. I used to have a pink/black/gray pair that I loved so much but they're completely ruined now.

10. Promise Rings
This is my favorite 'P' thing. Matt gave me the smaller one the first year we dated and the other the Christmas before last. I'd say he's got pretty good taste, can't wait to see what the engagement ring will look like hehe.

I think most everyone has done this, but if you haven't and want to, just leave a comment and I'll get you a letter.

-kcc

Mucho Gracias!

2009-02-18T19:05:00.000-08:00

School is a bummer this week, so much work piling up!
However everything else this week has been just fantastic.
I received my first ever blog award from Allison at The Displaced Texan which made me so happy. She's such a sweet gal and I love reading about her adventures as a military wife, and especially as a nurse. She's also a part of the other blog I'm a member of called Where Two or More Gather. She's always an inspiration, whether it be about nursing, life in Germany, or spiritual stuff.
Thanks Allison for thinking of me, you're so kind :)

So here's what the "Love Ya" award is all about:
"These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award!"

I'll pass this fabulous award along to:
Lovely Yellow Ribbons She's so creative and always brightens my day
Honey and Quilts She's a wonderful girl and makes some of the most beautiful quilts I've ever seen
Dandelion Wishes I'm newbie to her blog, but she's so generous and entertaining
New Girl On Post The best friend a girl could have
French Kiss I so dream of being a runner like she is. Her blog is always so uplifting and she's such a nice gal
The Adventures of Jon and Steph Her photography and stories of traveling Europe are amazing
The Displaced Texan
Yep, I'm going to send it back to her too because she's just that awesome
Muffy Martini This girl has fabulous taste in fashion and her blog is always a good read.

Terrific Tuesday!

2009-02-17T22:05:00.000-08:00

I know the title is pretty lame, what can I say, I suck at writing titles.

Today turned out to be pretty fabulous day.

Last night I was up til 3:30 a.m. trying to wrap up Project #2 for my Art Foundations class. I love this class, it's fun and non-stressful. I nice break from the more stressful classes I've had lately like Pharmacology, Microbiology, Anatomy & Physiology, and Intro to Logic. If anyone is interested I'll post some pics of my projects here for all to see. We're only doing black and white media right now so it's not too exciting but I do love the simplicity of the lack of color.

My alarm went off at 7:30 and with only 4 hours of sleep I did not want to get out of bed. The dark circles under my eyes are pretty obvious but I surprisingly had alot of energy anyway. Classes were fine and and during tutoring I was swamped. I had 3 students in all at once and helped people the whole 2 hours I was there, definitely a first because I really have only one girl who's a regular.

After doing tutoring work I headed to my third appointment for my Laser Hair Removal (LHR). It's pretty obvious that I've got dark hair thick hair and it's an evil of nature that I've been 'blessed' with the same dark facial hair and underarm hair. So instead of shaving daily and suffering from awful razor burn and waxing my face just about weekly, I saved up for LHR. I had a new technician doing it today that I've never had before and she informed me that my past 2 treatments were at too low of a level and she needed to up it to get the best results.

Usually it's not too painful because I have a numbing cream for my face and the pain on my underarms isn't too bad so I forgo the cream there. Let me tell you ladies, IT WAS PAINFUL! It stung a little on my face but not too bad. But when she got to my underarms, I was bawling. I kept clinching my fists, biting my tongue and trying to do deep breathing exercises but it really didn't help much. She gave me a stress ball to squeeze on but I thought I was going to rip in half. They tell you it feels like little rubber bands snapping on your skin when you sign up for the LHR. Big Fat Lie! More like electrocution each time the laser zaps your skin. Thankfully the pain subsides quickly and doesn't last too long. Forgive me, but I was so close to hollering out a few choice 4 letter words during the whole process.

After that ordeal was over, I headed to the city to meet my parents for some shopping and dinner. I had a reward certificate for Ulta and got a free container of Olay facial cloths and a tube of Bert's Bees chap stick for only 10 cents! On top of that my favorite mascara was buy one get one free. :)
We had dinner at Abuelos (my nana pronounces it "Ab-you-lows", an insider joke in our family. She also pronounces Colorado as "Cada-rada", and cappucino as "cop-ah-chino" haha. Thinking about it always makes me smile) I had their enchiladas which are now on my list as the best ever, which is pretty big, because Los Cabos' chicken enchiladas are to die for!

After the delicious dinner I headed over to Barnes & Noble to do an assignment for my Composition class which was finding 12 different books, each under a different genre and recording the title and author.
I had never been in a Barnes & Noble before, it's now officially my heaven on Earth! I will now be requesting B&N gift cards from the parents as gifts for every Birthday or Christmas from here on out. I could definitely do some damage to my wallet if I had the money to spend in that place. I've got a bit of problem and have a habit of buying books but never reading them. The bargain book piles at Waldenbooks in my hometown have definitely gotten the best of me a time or two. Hopefully, when nursing or biology texts don't rule my life, I'll be able to crack a few of these open, until then they sit in my bookcase collecting dust.

Since I was in the city I got to get some Starbucks, a couple of their enormous cookies, and some KrispyKreme donuts for breakfast tomorrow. Needless to say, I'm one happy girl.

When I got home I had a wonderful surprise in my mail box. A gift from Mamarazzi for being her 200th follower. It's a mini-pampering kit and includes nail polish, foot soak, adorable toe separators, a notepad, emery board, and some Pop Rocks candy along with a cute little card.
A Big thank you to her, that was so sweet and made my day!

I also got a great leather journal to start as my prayer journal for only $4.99 at Mardel's. If you can't already tell, I'm obsessed with getting a good deal any chance I can.

Fabulous Giveaway from Steph

2009-02-17T21:45:00.000-08:00

The lovely Steph at The Adventures of Jon and Steph is hosting not only one great giveaway, but TWO fabulous, one-of-a-kind giveaways.
Go check out her blog and get in on the action!
She's offering either this really neat bottle art-bowl from Austria that can be used as a small bowl or a catch all for nick-knacks.

Or this great Mini scarf that she handmade and used authentic vintage buttons to accessorize.

I'd love to win either of these, as I'm sure you would too. So hop on over to her blog and enter!

My new love

2009-02-16T12:06:00.001-08:00

Well,not really, but I am pretty smitten with my new handbag I got on sale at Dillard's last week. It was on sale for $26 and I had a $10 reward certificate my mom gave me to use, so the grand total was $16.
What a steal! I like how the print is bright and springy. And it's unique, what's not to love!

I've got a post about the letter game coming up soon, once I can get my creative juices flowing and finish it up.

I'm trying out 2 new recipes tonight for dinner, the infamous Marlboro Man Sandwich from Pioneer Woman and some creamy mashed potatoes that you cook in the crock pot. If it turns out great, I'll share the recipes with you all.

Oh, and since everyone's posting about V-day excitement, my Valentine's Day night was nice. Matt and I went over to his cousin Bryan's house and the men cooked steaks for us ladies. It was delicious and his cousin's wife Misty taught me how to make homemade tortillas, yummy and super easy. Just smear some butter or honey on em and I'm in heaven! I made a homemade Pineapple Upside Cake (Matt's favorite) for dessert which turned out heavenly as well.

Happy Monday everyone!

**Also, Allison's furbaby Addie recently had surgery and isn't doing too well. Please keep the two of them in your thoughts. I know I love my pets like they're my kids and it makes me just as sick when they're not feeling too well.

A delicious way to add an inch or two to your waist!

2009-02-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

Today I had my dreaded Pharmacology exam and I'm pretty sure I bombed it. I'm not too worried about it because my professor will let us drop one exam, and judging by the fact that I was clueless for about 90% of the test, I'm predicting this will be the one to drop. There were probably 30 different drugs on this test so I'm going to have to spend ALOT more time studying for this class and filling out drug sheets with all the details on every single medication.

So...sadly, blogger will be getting less of my time these days. I'm sad that I've had to chisel away at my list of blogs I follow and cut it down to the only the ones that I really enjoy reading because I just don't have the time to catch up on all of them everyday.

Okay, I'm one of those people who has a hard time staying committed to a goal. I've decided to get in shape and lose some weight, all the while saying "and I mean it this time", oh about 15 times in the past six months. I've got a Wii Fit sitting in my living room that I haven't been on in 17 days and a Pilates DVD in my room that's only collecting dust. So now, I'm setting a goal to start running. I want to be running several miles, maybe 3 or 4 at least,a day by the end of the summer. I don't really care about losing weight, I just want to be fit and able to walk up the 3 flights of stairs at the college library without getting winded. So, any advice on how to get into a good routine while avoiding injury? I'd love any tips I can get.

Now, after revealing my goals to get in shape, I'm going to share a sinfully caloric,yet equally delicious,recipe for the best brownies ever. I don't remember where I got the recipe, I'm thinking on the Hershey's website. Anyway, a couple of batches of these beauties can definitely do some damage to a girl's waistline, so beware!

I don't have any pics of the one's I've made, but these look equally delicious!

Deep Dish Brownies

3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, melted
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 eggs
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup Hershey's cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.

2. Combine butter, sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Add eggs; beat will with a spoon or a spatula. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt in separate bowl; gradually add to egg mixture, beating until well blended. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.

3. Bake 40-45 minutes or until brownies begin to pull away from sides of pan. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Cut into bars, makes about 16 brownies.

Yumm!!!

Finding Perfection

2009-02-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

One thing that I've always struggled with is striving for perfection. Whether it is school, work, or personal relationships, I feel like things should be ideal and I usually beat myself up when I screw up or they don't go as planned.
The worst part is my relationship with Matt. Up until this past year, I've struggled with things not going just perfectly. I imagined a fairy tale romance and was often disappointed when I was let down. It's taken much work and a great amount of praying, but I've finally realized that there is no such thing as perfect. Every couple argues and has disagreements. We certainly have our fair share of arguments but we've grown and can have a discussion instead of a knock-down drag-out fight. We can spend time explaining our feelings and trying to understand eachother instead of being angry and holding a grudge. Even when things don't end up my way, I always feel much better after we've discussed our disagreements.
I think that it's important to realize that everything won't always be pleasant, but as long as the good times outnumber the bad, it's all worth it. It's always refreshing to hear about other women's lives and to know that I'm not the only one who doesn't have a perfect fairy tale life.
I will always be a work in progress and still have my immature outbursts but I'm realizing that "life can be 'perfect' even though things don't go perfectly".
I know this post isn't too cheery but it's just something that's been on my mind
lately.

-kcc

Do this, pleeeeese

2009-02-09T12:47:00.000-08:00

I received an email about this today from Allison and wanted to pass it on.
This is the email that she forwarded me:

Get a red envelope (Now is the time to get one from a valentine card.). On the front, address it to:

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington , D.C. 20500
On the back, write the following message.

"This envelope represents one child who died by abortion.
It is empty because that life was denied the chance to offer anything to the world.
Responsibility begins with conception".

On Thursday, the President said this at the National Prayer Breakfast:
"There is no God who condones taking the life of an innocent human being."
This would be very appropriate to add to the message.

I didn't know that President Obama said this and I pray that he is sincere in his words. Now is the time to stand up for what you believe in. Afterall, it's our responsiblity to be the voice for the voiceless.

Also, I have received an email from a kind woman named Margaret who said that she has extra envelelopes and will place one in the mail in your name. If you don't have a red envelope, please email me your info and I will pass it on to her.

Thank you!!!
-kcc

It's a Beautiful Day!

2009-02-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

I wanted to let everyone know that Becca at Lovely Yellow Ribbons has decided to start a devotional type blog and has had a good amount of response in favor of it. I've been wanting to start a devotional for myself but have had a hard time sticking to it. I think this will be just the thing to get me involved and accountable. If anyone is interested in joining in, go to this post to get the info.

This week will hopefully be pretty mellow. I have a Pharmacology test this Thursday and am already trying to get a study guide typed up today. I'm horrible at procrastinating and most always blow off studying until the night before the exam. I'm really trying to break that habit though. I guess I've gotten pretty lucky with my pharm teacher. She's an adjunct and is really laid back. Best of all, she gives a study guide for each exam which is pretty much verbatim what the test will be. Score!!!

The weather's been so nice this weekend that Matt went fishing Saturday and caught about 10 crappie. He brought it home last night and cooked it for dinner. I love it, it's flaky and has no fishy taste. It's by far my favorite fish! I'm starting to get used to him surprising me with dinner on Sunday nights, maybe he'll keep it up. Hopefully we'll have some time this week to go fishing if the weather stays nice. I've got a new pink rod and reel that I want to break out. Hey, a girl's gotta crappie fish in style!
This is the one I have from Bass Pro

It's pretty humorous when we go fishing because I'm pretty horrible at it. No one ever took me fishing before I met Matt so he's taught me everything I know. I still have trouble casting the line and more often than not get it tangled up in something. And I haven't quite mastered being able to detect if the fish bites, especially catfish because they're so darn sneaky. Last summer I overcame my fear of worms (I HATE worms, worse that spiders or bugs!) and learned how to bait my own hook for once. Thankfully, Matt's pretty patient though and just rehooks the line and usually casts it for me while I just reel it in if I get a fish.

All of the pictures from Bailey's birthday are on my sis' camera so I'll have to get them uploaded another time. Her cake turned out great but it was huge! I think we used 6 boxes of cake mix in all and had half of the cake leftover after the party. Not very good planning on our part.

Well, I'm off to get some studying done.
Hope you all have a blessed day!!!

-kcc

One Year Ago Today....

2009-02-05T15:48:00.000-08:00

I finally got the call from my mom that I'd been waiting to receive for about 8 months. She said it was the real deal this time and that she and my dad were taking my sister Tarra to the hospital

I was driving like a mad woman to get back to my hometown.

I was bawling in the lobby of the Labor and Delivery floor at Jane Phillips Hospital because I was so extremely excited and so proud of my little sis. Seriously, I don't know know why I was crying hysterically, I couldn't even speak, I was just sobbing uncontrollably. My throat tightens and my eyes tear up just thinking about it now.

I got to meet the most precious little girl in the world, Bailey Ann!

Happy Birthday Sweet Little Girl!

Here she is with her favorite aunt dressed up in her little Bumble Bee Halloween costume.

We're having a ladybug birthday party this Saturday and Tarra and I are making the cake for it. I'll put some pictures up next week of all the fun stuff.

-kcc

WooHoo!

2009-02-04T20:50:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited that I get to do a swap!

I wanted to get in on a Valentine's Flirty Apron swap but sadly missed the deadline. Needless to say, I was super excited when I found out about this Favorite Things swap.

If you'd like to join in, you can follow the button above for Dandelion Dreams blog. But hurry, the deadline to sign up is next Friday and space is filling up.

Does anyone else get as excited about swaps as I do? The kid in me just LOVES to get packages in the mail.

-kcc

How I Love the World of Blogging

2009-02-04T06:21:00.000-08:00

Well ladies I just have to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the kind comments you've left me. They truly make my day and I usually can't quit smiling for at least an hour after read them all.

Matt and I started dating when I was 16 and he was 18 and have been together for almost 6 years. I had friends in high school but by the time my junior year rolled around they were all interested in sneaking into the nightclubs, drinking and partying not just on the weekends but usually every weekday too. I've never been one to party or drink and neither is Matt. When we would go out to parties we just both said no to drinking, it's always easier to stand your ground when you have someone by your side.

Needless to say, my friends and I drifted apart because we just didn't value the same things anymore and lacked anything in common. I made Matt the priority in my life and since none of them were in a serious relationship, they just didn't get it. Since then I haven't had many friends, but, the few I did have were quality relationships. With me, it's all about quality, not quantity.

Melissa is my closest friend and I've missed her so much since she moved to Louisiana and now to Italy, but I'm also so excited for the adventures she'll get to experience. It's been hard to reach out to the people that I go to school with because I dont' live on campus and my time is pretty consumed with my family and Matt. The university I go to is small and 2/3 of the students don't live on campus so it's not really a tight-knit community among the students. I'm hoping that when I start the nursing program things will be different.

The friendships I've made in the past few months on blogger really mean alot to me. I'm continually surprised that anyone, especially someone I've never met in person before, would care to know about my life. I'm also overwhelmed at times at the kindness and support that is poured out through this network of people.

Anyway, just wanted to say thanks
I hope you all have a beautiful day!

-kcc

My Quilts

2009-02-02T17:48:00.000-08:00

I love seeing the pictures of Honey's quilts and wanted to share mine with you.
This is the first quilt that I completed. The pattern is from Eleanor Burns' Quilt in a Day line and is called Delectable Mountains.

It's a queen-size monster of a quilt. I machine pieced it and got most of it done in 3 days at a quilting class. The teacher of my class is from my hometown and has a huge 20ft long-arm quilting machine and I paid her to do the machine quilting for me. She did a great job and I think I would have gone crazy if I would have quilted it. I hand stitched the binding on it and thought my fingers were going to fall off! I don't know how Honey hand quilts hers, it takes alot of patience and talent.

This is the backing for my quilt. I did the log cabin pattern but used the background fabric for one half so it would make a completely new design. I gave this quilt to my mom. She cried when she first saw it and I was so happy that she liked it so much. The sad thing is that it's folded up in her closet. She won't use it because she's too afraid that it will get stained or damaged.

This is the munchkin Bailey, my beautiful niece and the apple of my eye.

Notice that she's WALKING!! She just got the hang of it the past few weeks and is doing fantastic. She plops down on her little bottom alot but she's getting better at keeping her balance and getting right back up when she falls.

This is another quilt top that I've made but haven't put a border on it or quilted it yet :)
I made it at another Quilt in a Day workshop by Eleanor Burns. It's a sampler egg money quilt. The fabrics and patterns are based on the quilts that women made in the fifties. They would sell their eggs and use the money to buy flour, then they would use the flour sacks to make quilts.
This is my favorite quilt so far just because it's quirky and unusual. I can't wait til I can get it done, probably this summer when school is out. My favorite part is the Double Wedding Ring design on the bottom right corner of the pic. I want to make a whole queen size quilt with this pattern for myself and one for my older sister Maranda.
Someday, after school and before babies, I'll have the time.

-kcc

Passing the Time

2009-02-02T13:43:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting up here at the school waiting for 5 o'clock to roll around so I can head home and trying to keep my eyes open. I'm soo bored. Mondays are always the hardest because I'm at the school from 12 to 5pm doing tutoring. The worst part is sitting at a desk so long. Even when I'm at home watching TV I'm up doing something; sorting, folding and putting away laundry, washing dishes, or cooking in the kitchen. I definitely like to be up and about.

Last night I was in the mood to cook. I made meatloaf, cheesy Gnocchi, and homemade deep dish brownies. Matt was busy yesterday afternoon smoking some meat at a friend's house for a Super Bowl party and surprised me by bringing home smoked bologna, polish sausages, and country style ribs for dinner. Smoked 100% beef bologna is one of my favorite foods and he always tries to throw some on the smoker for me.

It's pretty funny when all this manly cooking is going on. Apparently, smoking meat is a science, and (according to Matt), he's a master of it. It cracks me up how he'll get all bent out of shape when the temperature gets too low and how he can't step away from the smoker even for a second of the 6+ hour process. I do have to admit that what he cooks is pretty good though. Last summer we had a decent crop of corn in our garden and he made several batches of smoked corn on the cob. I'd never even heard of smoking corn before, but it was so yummy! I'm going to have to request it again this summer. Probably weekly.

So, it's meatloaf for dinner tonight. I'll have to share the recipe sometime because it's very delicious and super easy. We did enjoy some cheesy gnocchi with our BBQ though. It was pretty good, but I think it's been better in the past. I don't really measure the ingredients and think I may have skimped a little on the amount of cheese I used.

Here is a pic of the gnocci and oil that I used

Cheesy Gnocchi

1 pkg Potato Gnocchi

1 cup shredded cheese, I use a combo of cheddar and colby jack

3 Tbs butter, melted

3 Tbs olive oil, I like using Garlic & Onion flavored oil. If you can't find it, regular olive oil with a sprinking of garlic powder would be fine

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

Boil the gnocchi as the package directs, about 3-4 minutes and drain

Place the potato gnocchi in an 8"x8" baking dish and drizzle the melted butter, oil, salt and pepper over the top. Toss to coat and add 3/4 cup cheese, tossing to combine

Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/4 cup cheese and bake about 15 minutes or until the cheese is nice and melted

*I find the gnocchi and the flavored olive oil at Target under the brand Archer Farms.

Yummy!

2009-02-01T19:38:00.000-08:00

The Mojito Maven is having an awesome Valentine's Day Giveaway over at her blog.
She's giving away a sampler box of brownies from Fat Witch Bakery and boy do they look scrumptious!
Head on over to her blog and enter to win.

I'm planning on making my sweetheart his favorite Shrimp Scampi, mashed potatoes, and cheesy garlic bread for dinner and homemade Pineapple Upside Down cake for dessert.
What do you have planned for Valentine's Day?

TaDa!

2009-01-31T12:20:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love my new layout, I know I do!
Thanks to Allison at Addie Designs. Her button is here on my blog and I definitely recommend anyone who hasn't seen her stuff yet to go check her out. She's got some really great, unique ideas and everything is super cute. She'll also tweak your layout as many times as needed until it's just perfect (I was pretty picky and had a hard time deciding what I wanted).

On to other subjects. Cooking is a passion of mine. It's how I express that I care for others and it's a great way for me to relax. Maybe not so great for my hips, but that's a different story.
I want to share one of my favorite recipes each week, probably on Mondays.
So, tune in this upcoming Monday and you can learn how to make one of my favorite side dishes, Cheesy Gnocchi. It's like gourmet big-kid Mac and Cheese.

I'm hoping to get on the sewing machine today and try out an apron pattern that I've had for several months now. Then again, I spent an hour this morning trying to decipher the pattern instructions so we'll see how it all turns out.

Hope you all are having a great weekend!
-kcc

T.G.I.F.

2009-01-30T07:34:00.000-08:00

I'm at work this morning. I guess you can call it work because I get paid, but I don't really do anything except mess around online for the hours that I'm here. I work as a tutor at the college that I go to and, since it's still pretty early in the semester, no one really needs any help yet.

Every Friday I drive back to my parent's house which is a little more than an hour's drive from my apartment in the town where I go to school. My younger sister still lives at my parents' with her almost one year old little girl Bailey. Seriously, I can't go more than a week without seeing that baby! I swear everytime when I get back she looks like she's gotten chubbier, taller, and even cuter. Usually I spend my weekends taking care of her because I miss her so much during the week. This means that my weekends consist of 1:30 am singing and rocking her back to sleep, 4:30 am bottle time, and then up at 8 to get her some breakfast. She sleeps best when she's cuddled up in my bed instead of alone in her crib; and even though she only weighs 25lbs, she's THE biggest bed hog.
Honestly though, by the time Sunday rolls around and it's time to head back to my house, I'm more than ready for a good night's sleep.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend, I'll be having fun getting some smooches and hugs from my little niece!

-kcc

And the Water Feels Fine!

2009-01-29T19:54:00.000-08:00

That's right, I'm no longer just dipping my toe into the world of blogging . I'm officially jumping in, head first, and am leaving my own little mark on the blogosphere. I reiterate the word 'little' as I'm honestly apprehensive about putting it all out there, I'm just not sure I have much to say that's all that interesting. Anyway, I love reading about your lives on here and feel like I should put a little bit about myself out there as well.
Please excuse the mess, as I'm a newbie and am definitely learning the ropes. I welcome any and all advice or tips for all the technical stuff.

-kcc