Italy Day 6

Italy Day 6

Today was a jam packed day.  We left the hotel @ 8AM and walked to the dock where we hopped a boat to an area near the city center.  We then walked to St.  Marks square and took a tour of the Dogass Palace, the jail and St. Marcs church.

We then went to a glass blowing shop and saw how it was made – it was really neat.  However, Venetian glass is very expensive, I saw a Chandelier for 27,000 Euros!

We walked around and window shopped a bit, then met back with some of our group to go to Burano Island where they are known for their lace.  We had a good lunch, though it was a bit fishy for me and then walked the shops.  I bought a few things and generally had a good time though I admit I as getting tired.   We then hopped on the boat and came back to the mainland.  The trip over we sat on the top, but this time the inside bench made a good bed.

Once we got back to the main island we had some time on our own.  We took a good hour and ½ meandering back to the hotel.   It was nice and we shopped a bit along the way (Mama haggled).  I love Venice, the relaxing nature of it, even if it is crowded.

We then came upstairs and got a shower, by this time I was beat.  We relaxed for a bit in the room and then decided to go outside.  We ran into other people from the tour downstairs in the lobby and spent a good hour visiting.  It was great – this group is so inclusive, I love it.

Jack & I took a stroll outside with Doug, one of the guys from our group.  We were delighted to find a street performer (fire).  It was a mazing & still the day is not over.  When we got back to the hotel we met up with Mike & Jenny, another couple from our group.   We went up to the balcony and talked or two more hours.  It was really a great evening.  Jam packed day, but I loved it.  Now I must sleep.

Italy Day 5

Italy Day 5

Today we left Florence & headed for Venice.  Mostly, it was a traveling day, however we did stop for lunch in Verona, which was nice.  They have an amphitheater similar to the Coliseum, but smaller.   This is also the town Romeo & Juliet were based in.  The town is mainly shopping, but it was pretty & a nice little stroll.

One thing to note here is I paid .70 Euro to use the potty only to find a sunken toilet in the floor.  So basically a whole that I stood over, interesting to say the least…

We then headed to Venice which is fascinating.  The water city!  We rode in a Gondola.  I worried we were going to tip over or Mama would fall out…  We also took a water taxi which is very expensive to dinner.  I wasn’t impressed with the service tonight at dinner, but it was good overall.   Jack and I waltzed in St. Mark square before we headed back to the hotel.

Day 4, Italy

Italy Journal
Day 4, 9/5/12

This morning we got a late start; it was 7:50 before the bus left.   The breakfast was terrible; Italians can’t cook breakfast, but it was on a rooftop dining room so the view made up for the food.

We then made our way to downtown Florence were we 1^st went to the Academia Museum & saw the statue of David.  Our guide obviously loved art and made Michelangelo come to life.   There were 4 unfinished works that were awesome to see.  You cold kinda see the process he went through, which was just awesome.   David itself is Massive, 20 ft high.

We left there and walked to the city center of Florence – this town has a lot of walking.  We saw the Church of Croce which is gorgeous and very unique.     We saw Duomo & Babtistry Buildings – one has Gold doors and we saw the Piazzo Del Signoria which is an open space sculpture muse am.  The guide went at a good pace which allowed me to wonder and take pics which I enjoyed.  Overall I like Rome more, but Florence has its charms.  It is a lot more crowded though…

Once the guide was finished we were given free time to eat lunch and wonder.  They are is known for  leather and gold, but the $$$ were steep.   We got a few gifts and I got some glove, Jack a belt and that was it.  I just didn’t want to spend the $, this trip is already costing a pretty penny.

We also wondered up to the Ponte Vechhi Bridge, which has buildings on it & is the oldest of its kind left.  It was neat to see, but very crowded so we headed back to wait for the group at the square.

We then left Florence and went to San Gimiignano which is a medieval town with walls and towers.   The view off of the top was Tuscany countryside and it was great.   The buildings were awesome.  It was quaint with shops and ice-cream parlors; a little touristy, but I liked it.

We then headed back to Florence & had dinner.  Overall it was nice day, but very tiring.   I’m glad we get to spend time on the bus tomorrow.

Italy Day 3

Italy Journal
9/4/12

Today was a day of traveling. We left Rome at 7:0 and headed to Tuscany. The landscape has changed to one of rolling hills divided by bushes. We made a short stop at the leaning tower of Piza & I was very impressed. You always see the tower, but there are two gorgeous buildings there. Overall the area is very touristy - some would say "tourist trap", but we enjoyed it even though some street vendors were pushy.

We then got on the bus and drove a few more hours to Florence. Our room is big by European standards; but the bathroom is tiny. However it does have shutters that open to let the breeze in. Very relaxing and peaceful.

After a few minutes to regroup we left for a nice dinner in the Tuscany countryside. The countryside is gorgeous & the restaurant quaint. We sat with a couple from Penn. and had a nice conversation. The wine was free and several o four group members enjoyed it. They were singing on the way back to the hotel and having a great time. It was really great and relaxing.

After we got back to the hotel we were ready to come to the room, but several people told us the view from the 5th floor was great & it was. We sat around, had a drink and shot the shit with people from our group for an hour a so. It was a great time. The group & being included in it was awesome.

Today was bien.

Italy Day 2

Journal - Day 2, 9/3/12

Today was our first official day of the tour and it was jam packed. We got up and had breakfast. It was was buffet and it was jammed with people. I wasn't very impressed with it. WE then loaded on the bus and were on our way to The Vatican Museum which is breath taking. Tapestry with gold weaved in, amazing paintings and architecture. Ceiling paintings that looked like sculpture. We then went into the Sistine Chapel which was so amazing. The room was smaller than I thought it would be, but the detail was exquisite. Peoples voices would raise as they spoke and then the guard would shout and all would quite down be quite again, then the cycle would repeat. It was rather humorous. I did fairly well today, only a couple of small moments of unease due to the crowds. After the chapel we left and went to St. Peters Cathedral. Again the architecture was amazing, the cross of Christ was there, but behind statues where you couldn't see it. To protect it I'm sure. It was amazing, the colors, the statues, the history. you could spend a month and not see it all.

We then left and headed to the Colosseum. I felt a little rushed, but it was still astounding to see. To think of men dying on the stones while others cheered, barbaric, and the fact they built it so long ago.

We also walked up, and saw the remains of the forum where the Ancient Greeks ruled from. The columns and relics still standing as a marker of history. We then came back, grabbed some pizza and Ice cream and took it back to the room, where we took a much needed nap as we did walk for 4 hours this AM.

Then we left the hotel again for the afternoon excursion. We went to the top of the Spanish Steps & walked down like all of the models do. The street is famous for shopping (Gucchi, Prada, etc...) We sat on the steps for a while & watched the people.

We then walked onto the Pantheon. It was also amazing to see the ancient structure in the heart of town. It also had amazing architecture and art work. Through the walk we saw various obelisk and monuments. WE also sat outside the Pantheon for a bit and relaxed. Once we did that we went to our last stop of the day - Novana Plaza. Tons of art work for sale, great buildings and generally fun.

We left there, came back to the hotel an grabbed some dinner. It was a great day. My feet hurt, but it was awesome.

*Journal After Thoughts

- Breakfast in Itally proved to be lacking. They don't generally eat it and it was absolutely horrible. But they make up for it with dinner.

- Sorry for all of the "amazings" I was tired and other words would not come.

- Pictures didn't turn out that great - too rushed and many places didn't allow the flash.

Italy Journal - Day 1

9/2/12

Well it is my first journal in Italy. It technically is a journal of two days for our journey began yesterday at 8 am.

We got up and went and had a nice breakfast @ Sunrise Grill; our new favorite place. We then made our way to the Augusta Airport. Our flight was scheduled to leave at nooon, but we arrived super early at 9:30. I'm always ok being somewhat early, but never late. We read, talked and waited. Luckily the plane left on time w/o incident and we were on our way. The flight from Augusta to Atlanta was uneventful and took right at an hour, gate to gate.

We de-boarded in Atlanta and went in hunt of the new International gate. It all went really smooth and then we decided to grab some lunch given the 3 hour layover. We went into the eating area and I got a little panicky - like I can in crowds; this typically makes me whinny and bitchy, lovely eh? We found a table off to the side and Jack told me to go get my food while he minded the bags. I went to Panda Express and really couldn't see for the crowd of peps - which made me edgy to begin within so I went back and told Jack "I want chow-main and on the entree surprise me." Chow main was the side dish. I also tol him I wanted a spring roll; so he goes off.

Mama comes back with her food and I'm sitting there relating to her that I could eat a horse when Jack comes back - he had 1 plate and this itty bitty box plus 2 drinks. I asked him "where is mine" and he said "this is it - thought we would share and if you want more I'll go back". Now keep in mind I'm bitchy and whinny at this point. I felt so deflated, he didn't get me any food. No of course he had and his way was really a better idea, but I didn't see it that way at the time. I was so irritated. It seems so silly now, and he really did do what was best, but there I was; eating my "share" of the food which had no chow-mein on it growling from the inside and hungry. He asked if I wanted anything more, but hell would have frozen over 1st so I said no. WE finished eating lunch - I guess - and went to the terminal to wait. I ate a box of our raisin reserves, go carry-on bags.

We then boarded the plane for our 9 hour flight to Rome, about 2 hours in I realized I was a bitch and apologized for such... The plane ride was very uncomfortable and I was seated between Jack and Mama with no room, but we are here now and looking back it wasn't that bad.

Once we arrived in Italy we swept through customs with no problem. He barely even glanced at my passport... and found our tour company. We then drove to the hotel where we met our tour guide Maria. She gave us some basic info, got us our rooms and set us free until 5 pm.

Now we thought we would go directly to sleep, but another couple (Doug & Carol) on the tour said the best way to get through jet lag was to push through and it made sense, so we did. We went upstairs to our room, got a shower, etc... and headed out. The three of us alone in Italy. It was fun, we wandered to see a castle (St. Angelo). We wondered along the bridge and took pictures of the statures. We said no to street vender's and enjoyed the whether. It rained on us a little, but it was all good.

By this time it was 1 pm and we were all really dog tired so we decided to wonder back to the hotel. I was also starving so we dropped Mama at the hotel, given she didn't want to go eat, and we went for food. We at eat this nice place - I felt odd as we just wanted a light meal to hold us over so we split a lasagna. It was good, not like the kind we at a home at all, cheesier/lighter and yummy. We then came back to the hotel and took a nap.

We woke up at 4 pm and got dressed, then went and officially met our group. We stat through a brief 45 minute intro and then headed to a nice dinner. We sat with an Australian Couple who were nice. The good was also good - mostly.

1st course, meet and cheese tray = ok, Second Course - Some Red Sauce Pasta & Green Sauce Pasta - Yummy, 3rd Course - Pork and Spinach with Salad = not so good, Desert - Berry Pie w/ boisenberries = Ick. But the experience was nice. We then went on a lighted tour of the city. Everything is so pretty with all of the old architecture. Much of it we will see tomorrow, but we did get to go see the Fountain of Trevi which was crowded but gorgeous. It was really a great day or well 2 days. Now I need my rest so I can start tomorrow fresh - so g'night.

End Journal 9/2/12

After thoughts - Just as a note the journal so I will remember.

* The tour guide - Maria - she was terrific throughout the tour. I really enjoyed her. She was always happy and just well great at what she did.

** Driving in Italy is crazy, they obey no laws and the streets are really tight. Our driver was awesome, however when he would get really close to something that she would see from the front she would say "oops" or "mama mia" it was so cute.

*** Cokes are expensive - between 1 and 6 Euros (1 Euro = 1.2 Dollars). Everything is more expensive over there. Their cost of living is outrageous; especially in Venice.

**** On Day 1 a guy at the Fountain of Trevi a guy offered to take our picture, he had a nice camera so I let him (My judge to see if they are going to run off with it), but Jack didn't trust him and watched him with his eye while we were getting a shot kissing (funny pic) and true enough, he handed the camera back to us and then wanted to get a picture we would "pay him for" - umm - no.

Ramblings

I don't get on here very often any more. I'm not sure what that means... have I reached that point in my life that I'm content and thus don't feel the need to pour my soul out into the faceless void or am I just lazy? I don't know the answer to that, but what I do know without a doubt is that no matter the day, no matter the event - Life goes on.

The hubby and I are well; in fact we are fantastic. Things fall apart around us, unexpected circumstances arise, breakage occurs - and we stand. We stand stronger; we stand boldly and with joy. We stand... I'm excited by that fact, excited in a world where things make no sense, we make sense. We are and and by God's grace we will remain. I love having that - it's like a permanent security blanket that is warm and fuzzy. Fuzzy Pants for the soul :)

And onto other rambling ideas:

- Someone at work the other day compared the US to the Roman Empire, how they were the wealthiest Nation, how they prospered until their morality began to circle the toilet, how they justified their actions and how that justification eventually lead to their collapse. I couldn't help but see his point, how long will the US stand if we continue to be morally bankrupt? I don't know the answer, but I pray I'm not here to see the collapse.

- Speaking of praying - I need to work on my own moral compass. I need to find a church, start back my daily reading time and generally live like I should live vs. how I want to live. I could justify myself and almost did as my fingers fly over the keyboard, but there is no excuse. As a recent blog I read stated - I need to brush my moral teeth.

- And continue the rambling - Some recent finds that are true gems:

1) http://michaelpatz.com/ -> I love this guy's way of thinking. Wish he was pastor at a church near here.

2) Awesome Band I recently found at a local talent night - http://www.facebook.com/SheNSheSounds?ref=stream#!/SheNSheSounds

- Politically I watch and read more than I ever have - the past 3 years I have become a spounge reading all kinds of articles, websites etc... and while I live in a state that will never vote with me I will vote - I will vote for Obama. I didn't vote for him in '08. I didn't want him as my President, I don't even know why - I wasn't educated enough to tell you (our voters really need to be able to tell you about the issues on some level), but then he won. So I engaged - I wanted to see what hole he would bury us in. What did I find? I found a man who I largely agreed with, one who honestly tries to help the American people, not just the rich. I found someone who at least on some level "gets it" and so I will vote - I will vote for my President, Mr. Obama because he cares.

- I got my birthcontrol for free this month - Obamacare :) so rightfully named because he does care.

And with those random thoughts with some political tyraid I bid you a good night. Til next time, whether that be next week or next year. Though I have a feeling it will be in sooner as we are going to Italy in 3 weeks and I have to share my travels :)

Love you blogland.

2012

So it is now 15 days into 2012 and I find myself discovering/analyzing what I want to focus on for the upcoming year. I don't want to do resolutions - for they most always fail, but I do want 2012 to be a great year.

My brother was just down for a weekend.. It was nice to see him and his family. His daughter is growing into such a little lady. I enjoyed their visit, but as they left I also found I enjoyed the silence that followed. Don't get me wrong, I'd love for them to have stayed another few days. I just noticed the silence once they were gone, the peace of it and the fact that my spirit found rest and joy in it.

So I guess my first thought is I want 2012 to be a year of quiet reflection. Of soft moments of pleasure and contentment.

I also find that I want to do more with my time. I want 24 hours to be streched into 30, but since I can't do that I just need to figure out how to do more. Don't get me wrong, I still love my days of rest... those days where you do nothing but veg and read a good book or have a tv marathon, but I also want to accomplish more that...

- I want to work around the house and do several projects that are burning in my mind: closet, stain decks/bridges, build laptop box, etc...
- Work on growing professionally
- Get more active with my scrapbooking either paper or digitally
- Finish uploading all pictures
- Do more of the books for our vacations
- Continue at the gym, ramp up my workouts and be diligent about getting both my cardio and my weights done.
- Get up earlier and have time for a morning Yoga and Time with God... this is going to be my hardest challenge.
- Get more serious about my bible studies
- Spend time with God daily
- Live my life as God would have me live it - including getting rid of my attitude issues, my grumpiness, my foul mouth, my self-centered expectations and etc...
- Learn to listen to my husband more, critize less - grow in our marriage. Continue to treasure the comfort of knowing he is there regardless. Treat him like the jewel that he is.

And with that I need to learn more than ever to sit quietly, enjoy things more and stop taking myself too seriously.

Have a great 2012 blogland... Love you!

Goodbye 2011

*Typed at 5:30 PM 12/31/2011

2011 is drawing to a close and I want to reflect back on what the year has been. It is difficult to do though; it really hasn’t been a memorable year. Which in many ways are good, there were no major catastrophe’s in my life, no major upheavals that upset the balance of nature… we just were. If anything 2011 was a year of togetherness.

Jack and I bought the house in Grovetown in 2010 and this year we found most of our free time working on it. We learned how, or at least learned more of, how to work with one another. We learned when to push, when to pull and when to sit quietly and let the other one vent. We learned and we grew closer.

In January I got really sick for the second or third year in a row and decided enough was enough. We completely revamped our diet and joined the local Y. Other than during the Christmas season we have gone steady for this year and plan to jump right back in after the New Year. We eat more fresh food (less Hamburger Helper); eat more turkey and a lot more veggies… I take 4 vitamins a day now: Flintstones Multi, C, E and B12… My energy level is good, though not as good when I was on Steroids in Feb… WOW, I know how that stuff is addictive.

Major projects on the house were done this year: Jack installed the back screened in porch for my anniversary, We had sod and a sprinkler system installed, painted the front porches with red and green, had rip/rap laid in the back, Mama cleaned out the front ditch and we finished the rock garden.

Inside things didn’t change much. Jack refinished the dressing table that now sits in my bedroom, awesome job and he stained a shelf we bought unfinished. I finally cleaned up the spare bedroom and now have a crafting area to call my own – one I rarely use…

We grew closer to Alice and Ty this year… I met her at work and they are really our only social connection down here, great people. Ty helped Jack with the screened in porch…

Jack and I went to NY for our anniversary only to have Hurricane Irene put a major damper on it, though I can now say I was in NY when it slept...

Other than that it was a quiet year. Jack and I find ourselves more in a rhythm than ever before. I just know without question he is there and he loves me. That in itself is source of quiet relief in my soul, but even better I know I love him without question or doubt. To know I have a partner in all things good and bad is such a blessing and a comfort. As I said on Facebook a while back, God is my rock and Jack is my walking stick.

And with that Jack and I bid 2011 ado and look forward to a bright 2012.

Recap

Bed time -- Day at work was... hopping/rough/stressful/humbling - I said things I regret and regret to admit I still feel them. Day at home was - Great - Hubby that works beside me, that is my partner in all things - A mother that is at all times my truest friend - A house that frustrates and challenges me depending on the day. Obama's Speach - Classic / Congress Faces Unforgettable - Here is praying out congressmen/women get over themselves enough to do what is right and get America headed back to where it needs to be, the land of opportunity... So with that I go to bed - Maybe tomorrow will be great on both fronts and Congress w/ decide to look out for the people vs. themselves.

NY Trip

We have been back a few days, but as always I wantd to put my log up here for those that are interested and so that I can look back later on.

Thursday - 08/25

We got up early and went about our daily routine. For me it was a crazy busy day at work - I was trying to get ready for the few days out of the office and my desk exploded. Howerever, I was able to leave on time and picked Jack up to begin our weekend adventure.

We went to the Augusta airport & went to check in for our flight. We few US Airways for the first time and their first impression was not a good one. We waited for over thirty miintues for a clerk to show up and when they did th efirst guy was rude and lecutruing. One lady had two children an ddidn't have seat assignments - his answer was to leacture her & say good luck. Well, with an attitude like that I really wonder how he has a job.

We went to the 2nd clerk and he mumbled. We found out our bag was overweight so, instead of costing us $25 it cost us $115 - lesson learned. Afterwards the service at the airport improved, but it wasn't a great impression.

Then we took off and landed in Charlotte and later connected to NY. Our taxi ride from th e airport to th ehotel was chepaer than expected and the city was still alive despite ti being 12:30 on a Thursday night. We then arrived at the hotel. It is very nice, the staff friendly and the hotel spacious and comfortable. I slept like a baby.

Friday - 8/26
Today we got up around 9, go dressed and headed out. We ate at a diner near the hotel for breakfastand it was fairly good. The coffee was strong, but the french toast was good.

We then headed down to see lady Liberty & Ellis Island. Everyone says New Yorkers are rude, but we had a very niceg guy help us find our way. He is probably still laughing about us asking where the subway was given we were standing right next to it.

We took the subway down an dheaded over to the Castle to bouy our tickets. We later learned that there would be two lines - one for our tickets and one for the boat. Overall the lines took about two hour, but it wasn't that bad. The ride out was nice and the view great. Lady Liberty is huge and great to see. Ellis Islan was also neat, but I was ready to go.

We left there and headed to City Hall. The building was hgute and neat to see. There was a street vendor there and we got some chicken/rice dish and ate in the aprk. It was nice, even if I was worried about birds shitting on me. We then headed down to 911 -> very sobering, but not much to see. A whole lot of construction.

We then headed down to the Flat Iron district - the Flat Iron building is super neat and the area around it was relaxing. There is still a ton to see, but after the dissappointment that our Broadway show was cancelled (a hurricane is chasing us) & the fact my legs are killing me it was time to come back to the hotel for some down time... So here we are.

More to come later ;) Have a great day blogland.

Slacker

Yep, I've been a blog slacker - still eating fairly well (though no where near as meticulous as I was in Jan) and still going to the gym. Really wish those steroids I took in Jan were not habit forming - I miss the energy they gave me :)

Yard is coming together - Family is good - I'm Me - Life is good - Hope you are well.

Miss you blogland - I hope to be back more regularly soon.

WoW! Long Day!

Today was good and the Lord blessed me with safe travels to Atlanta and back. It was a good day, my meetings went well - I got to see my old Wells Fargo colleagues and friends which was nice. However I am tired - 5:30 came early this morning.

The gym was killer tonight. I tried a new machine for my cardio that was killer... I only made it 7 Minutes on it, I'm so out of shape. Working on it though, did my 40 minutes of cardio overall and my weight routine for the day. Amazing how much harder weights are when you are tired, hee.

Well other than the food log that is below that is all I have to share for the day. My brain and my body is mush, I'll sleep good tonight that is for sure. God Bless you, I hope you had a great day!

Food Log:

2/8 - Tuesday

Breakfast:
- Oatmeal
- Piece of Raisin Bread
- Coffee

Lunch:
- Sandwich on Wheat Bread with BBQ Chicken Sandwich Meat
- Grapes
- Salad
- Apple Juice

Dinner:

- Shrimp Pasta Bake - ***** Oooh it was good, I'll have to type the recipe out, but will share it soon.
- Salad
- Brusel Sprouts
- Wheat Rolls
- Tea

Wednesday - 2/9

Breakfast:
- Oatmeal
- Piece of Raisin Bread
- Coffee

Lunch:
- Business Lunch @ Chili's
- Beef Fajita's with cooked onions/bell peppers
- Water

Dinner:
- Left over shrimp bake from last night
- Water
- Wheat Rolls

Back in the Saddle

Sorry I've been absent, I know you were sitting on the edge of your seat (hee). We went to see my brother and his family in Yulee FL this weekend. It was good to see them - I really enjoyed the visit and the time away. That being said it is also to be back home. Not sure what is going on, but I'm finding myself wanting to be home more. Guess I'm turning into a home body...

My energy is dissipating and it's getting harder to get up in the morning, but I'm still doing it and still thankful for my new life. I'm keeping to the food changes pretty well, though I wasn't great this weekend. However - I was out of town so hey :)

Below is the log of my meals. It's Mama's week to cook this week, but she is trying some new recipes so I'll share those as the week progresses. What she is making right now is smelling good - making me hungry :)

For those leaving who are not interested in the food log I wish you a great day! I hope you are doing well and wish you a terrific evening. May the Lord bless you with a great night sleep and a terrific evening.

2/5
Breakfast:
1/2 Grapefruit
2 Pieces of Oatmeal Raisin Bread

Lunch/Second Breakfast
- 4 Pieces of French Toast (Restaurant)
- Sugar Free Syrup with Powdered Sugar :)
- 1 link of sausage
- 3 cups of Coffee

Snacks
- Sunchips
- Orange

Dinner
- Roast with Veggies and White Rice
- Chicken & Dumplings
- 2 Biscuits
- Tea

Desert
- Banana Pudding

2/6
Breakfast
1/2 Grapefruit
Water

Lunch/2nd Breakfast
- 4 Pieces of French Toast (Huddle House)
- Coffee - 2 Cups
- Sugar Free Syrup

Snacks
- Low Fat Caramel Popcorn
- Banana Pudding

Dinner
- Tomato Basil Chicken (recipe linked last week)
- Field Peas (canned)
- Pumpernickel Bread
- Salad with low fat Dijon Mustard

Monday 2/7

Breakfast
- Oatmeal
- Banana Raisin Bread (homemade), not as good as the Orange/Blueberry bread from last week but good. It is good I just don't like it as much.
- Coffee

Lunch
- Left over Basil Chicken
- Salad
- Bread
- Apple Juice

Dinner
- Chicken & Rice Casserole (and old favorite, but cooked with brown rice), couldn't tell difference
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad
- English Peas with Carrots (canned)
- Tea

Friday!

TGIF! The week has been good, but hey - who isn't glad to see the the weekend come?

We are going to see my brother this weekend in Yulee (an hour east of Jacksonville). I'm looking forward to the visit as well as the escape from here. Not that here is bad, but a change of scenery will be good. So if I'm silent till Monday you know why :)

Things are still going well. Work is work and I'm thankful for the job. I'm getting stuff done and feel good about it. The lady I work with daily is doing a terrific job and while we have some hiccups we are working through them well. Its a great thing and I'm grateful for it.

I didn't get to do my cardio last night due to an eye appt, but I did get the weight lifting in. I think I need to push myself a bit more in the cardio arena, but we are enjoying the adventure.

Last night I didn't really try anything new at dinner other than roasting veggies. It was a recipe out of a book and you could really do any veggie. Heat oven to 475 and put veggies in a roasting pan or glass dish as I did. Roast them for 10 to 15 minutes until soft. I did asparagus, zucchini, broccoli, onions, and carrots. (you cut everything into small pieces, small sticks of carrot etc...) I don't think I'll do the broccoli again and the asparagus was a little gummy but everything else was great. I also put some salt/pepper on them. Super easy and good - I give it 4 stars and will cook it again.

- Steak :) always yummy and only read meat I've cooked this week.
- Left Overs from previous meals of the week - Clean out the fridge Thursday :)

Only thing I ended up throwing out of any quantity was the Zucchini Saute, next time I make it I need to cut it in 1/2 - it makes way too much for 3 people.

For breakfast

-Oatmeal
-Raisin Bread
-Coffee

For Lunch
-Left Over Meatloaf
-Left over Veggies from previous meals
-Tea

Snack
-Grapes

And with that I'll wish you a dynamite Friday! I hope its full of joy and good things. TGIF!

Tonight's Dinner

First and foremost,God answers prayers! I lost my keys on Monday (house/car/house security fob/Jack's car/office/all of them...). I've been praying and have asked my FB family to pray they turn up. Today Sam's called and had found them!!!! Yes God is good all the time.

Today overall was really good - productive. For the first time since I started at B&C I feel as if I may get caught up. What I know, don't jinx it, but I can't take the credit. I have a new lady working with me that is really helping and I really have just handed the job over to God. It's amazing what you can do when you aren't trying to do it alone.

I did pretty good today with the food too though one recipe didn't quite work out. For those interested the food log is below, along with the link from last night's dinner. For those of you checking out due to not needing new recipes thanks for letting me share my day with you. Thanks for being my sounding board in the void of the internet. I love you all and wish you a great night's rest followed by a a day filled with joy and wonder.

Last Night (Sorry I didn't link it in the last post, I ran out of time this AM):
- - This was really good and super quick.
-Mexican Lime & Cilantro Coleslaw
Spicy Skillet Chicken - Not going in my recipe book, but Jack really liked it. I didn't care for it and neither did Mama.

Breakfast
-Raisin Bran Cereal
- 1/2 Piece of Orange-Blueberry Bread
- Coffee

Lunch
- Ham Sandwich on Honey Oat Bread
- Grapes
- Water

Snack: Tangerine & a miniature Mr. Goodbar :)

Dinner:
- Turkey Meatloaf ***** - Mama's Meatloaf Recipe with Turkey Vs Hamburger Meat. I couldn't tell the difference and Turkey is so much better for you!
- Garlic Cauliflower - **** - Super good, I liked the bite with no garlic, then next bite would have some effect. FYI - You could use frozen cauliflower w/ no issue in this recipe and I used Olive Oil instead of butter on the sauce.
- Farmhouse Carrots - I won't be making this again, but I am saving the recipe for the sauce that is created and poured over the carrots. The onions were delicious! The carrots were just carrots, they tasted like carrots, the glaze did not change their flavor at all. Why go through all the work just to eat a carrot. I can do that by opening the fridge and grabbing one. But the sauce was good on the onions, really really good. I'll make that again.
- Sweet Tea
- Bread

And with that I'll leave you since my eyes are trying to close. Good night blogland I love you.

Food Expierements Continue

Yesterday was a good day, productive and well just good. I got to this weeks email in my inbox, which is unheard of for me at work so I'm celebrating the small things :) Still behind, but man that feels good!

We got 2 miles of walking in at the gym and did our weight workout :) Loving it! Loving the fact my family is doing it with me.

Then I came home and tried some new recipes. Ratings are below. This expierement is fun and healthy. How can you beat that?

For those who are leaving now due to not being interested in food logs. I hope you have a great day filled with joy and the Lord's blessings.

Breakfast

1/2 Grape Fruit
1/2 Piece of the Orange Blueberry bread I made Sunday
Cofee

Lunch
I was bad and ordered my norm @ chick fil'a without thinking.

- Chickfil sandwich (fried)
- Fries
- Sweet Tea

Oops - But it was good :)

Dinner
Spicy Skillet Chicken (will enter link later, running late...) **** - I'll make it again.
Mexican Lime & Cilantro Coleslaw, I didnt' like it, neither did Mama. But Jack loved it.
Sweet Tea

The Day

Well, this is the first day since the new me that I can say it wasn't perfect. But with The Lord's help I think I handled myself OK. A lady at work made it a point to let my manager know about something that I forwarded to her late, of course my manager knows how behind I am - I've made sure of that so she handled it for me. But it was this person's only intent to get me in trouble. The item I forwarded her was a documentation email only, nothing critical. I'll admit it upset me and it took some serious will power and God's help not to loose my cool completely. But a preacher I heard recently, or maybe it was a journal I read, not sure said that if someone is pushing your buttons and you start praying for them your frustration will lesson. I did it and you know what, it wasn't instant, but I can think about it now and just feel pity for her. I'm still a little peeved, but with the grace of God I'm not mad. It is what it is :)

The second thing that happened today and I need your prayers... I decided to go to Sam's to return something before I went to the gym. Somewhere between the car and the membership desk I lost my keys. After an extensive search I still have not found them. Please pray someone finds them and calls me (my # is on them) or turns them in at Sam's. It has so many keys on it, some of which are expensive to replace. Please say a prayer... God is good, hopefully he will find it pleasing/fit to return my keys to me.

So... Jack was nice enough to go home and get the spare, bring it to me and then we went to the gym. We only walked 30 minutes to getting there late, but we did a little over 2 miles - so while it wasn't our normal 40 at least we got something in.

We then came home and I tried out a new successful recipe. Food log for the day is below. I highly recommend dinner and breakfast :)

And with that I'll leave you for the evening and watch this movie. Have a dynamite and blessed evening.

Breakfast
- Piece of Orange / Blueberry Bread I talked about yesterday. Loved this for breakfast - Super, Super Yummy!

Lunch
- I took the chicken from yesterday, put some herb & garlic marinade on it and heated it up in a skillet, gave it some flavor :) **** - Ease 8 of 10
- Left over Zucchini Saute
- Left over Veggies from the Chicken Dish
- Sweet Tea

Dinner
- Shrimp, Sweet Corn and New Potato Boil - Everyone loved this dish! 5 Stars! Ease 3 out of 10. I did use real potato's and red potato's. I cooked the potatoes about 15 minutes before I added the corn and then started following the recipe. I was afraid since I changed the tater up that they wouldn't get done in the time the recipe called for...
- Salad, always a winner.
- Left over Zucchini Saute
- Left over Veggies from Chicken Dish
- Bread

This dish also made about just the right amount for 3, we only had about 1 leftover dish.

Yesterday's Food Experiment

Well, yesterday was a super busy day, but blessed. I started yesterday at 6:30 and didn't stop till I went to bed at 9:30! But with God's help I got everything done on my list.

Mama and I went to church at The Sanctuary, Jack was having issues with a Kidney Stone and had to stay home (he is feeling much better now). Both of us really liked the service, you could certainly tell God showed up! The church is extremely large though, over 700 people. I've never gone to a large church and think I would miss the connections. Of course you are connected as you want to be, so ... We are going to try it a few more times and pray about it. God has the right church for us and he will let us know if this is it.

We then about our day. Had our "treat" lunch at Chili's! yummy. I had a ton of running around to do and got all of it accomplished. Question blogland - what grocery store do you use? I've changed from Publix to Walmart and/or Foodlion due to prices. But I don't like Foodlion's veggie's (not very appealing) and their meat dept doesn't have a lot of options and Walmart is lacking in options on everything else so I end up having to go to both, which isn't fun. Anyone have a great, affordable grocery store they use?

After my grocery store run(s) I came home to continue our experiment into healthy cooking.

First I made a breakfast bread for the week. Blueberry Orange Bread I cooked it like the instructions said except I used "olive oil" and I didn't do the glaze at all. It gets 5 stars on both ease and yumminess! Plus now I have it to eat on all week for breakfast. Next time I make it I'm going to substitute wheat flour, but I wanted to try it once w/o messing with it too much :) Note - Walmart doesn't sale the Fiber One cereal it calls for.

Next came dinner.

-Rosemary, Lemon Herb Chicken Dish - It was edible and I will finish it as my lunch left over, but it was a pain to make and it was super bland. I don't recommend it.

-Zucchini Saute - Ease was 4 out of 10, only due to timing. Yumminess 4 out of 5. This one will go into the keeper basket as a healthy good side. I liked the flavor. Note though, use a spaghetti pot, not a skillet. 4 zucchini take up a lot of room.

- Salad - Always a winner
- Pumpernickel Bread
- Sweet Tea

I also cooked breakfast yesterday.

- French toast (using Honey-Oat Bread) - *****
- Apple / Raisin Topping from a cookbook I have (1 cup Applesauce, 1/3 cup raisins, tablespoon Cinnamon, stir it up and put in microwave for a 2 min till warm). Yummy, super easy. I could eat this by itself or on top of French Toast/Pancakes/Etc...
- Scrambled Eggs w/ cheese
- Smoked Sausage
- Coffee

Ease of dishes 2 out of 10. Yumminess 5 out of 5.

And just for tracking - I had the Chips and Salsa + Chicken Fajitas at Chili's with Water.

I'm still enjoying this cooking adventure. Tonight is a shrimp dish :) Wish me luck!

Have a great day blogland!

Sunday Blessings

It's Sunday Morning - The Lord's Day. Of course everyday should be the Lord's day in our lives, but something about Sunday is special. Its the day that we go to church and spend time with him in a group setting. Jack and I haven't been to church in a while, we've tried a couple down here since we moved but haven't found the church home and honestly haven't been trying to hard. That changes today! We are going to try a church and keep trying till we find the one God leads us to. It may not be every week, but I'm determined and believe we need to find a church home. Not only for the obvious reason, God wants us to. But I need it - I need it to help me live the way I need to (not everyone needs the weekly reminder, I do) - I also need to make some friends down here and what better way than church?

I listened to the preacher of this church online last Sunday and liked his speaking style so we'll see :) I hope you have a church home and if not I encourage you to find one today. God loves you and sent his Son to die for our sins, so that we may live with him in Glory. There is no time like the present to accept him into your Life as your Lord and Saviour. Need some more information? Please leave a comment - I don't have all the answers, but I'll be glad to try and help you learn about Jesus and the sacrifice he has made for you.

On another note yesterday was an AWESOME day. You are not going to believe what I did pretty much ALL by myself (with lots of prayers)!

I replaced the mechanism inside of Mama's toilet! Glamourous huh??? Hee - Seriously, I got out the tools and fixed a toilet. Can you believe it? I still can't! Jack couldn't either. I ended up taking more apart than I had to so I did extra work and I had to get him to tighten 2 nuts I couldn't get tight enough but other than that I did it and it works!

We also got some other good work done in Mama's Apartment. Not as much as I had hoped but good stuff: Jack hung the chair rail in her bedroom, mostly fixed her table (it still needs a little work), I began the chair recovering project (1.5 chairs down), fixed her bed frame, fixed vent, fixed hvac filter... and had a good time with family :) Good day! Long day, tiring day, but AWESOME!

After church today we are treating ourselves to lunch out and then have some errands to do around town (shopping / library / etc). It's going to be a great day. I hope yours is wonderful and full of God's blessings. Till next time, God bless.


Food log below for those interested:

1/29/11

Breakfast
- French Toast (White Bread :( ) Mama cooked, I asked her to use Wheat next time, but dang it was good :)
- Bacon
- Coffee (3 cups) - Not following 2 cup rule on weekends. I have to have some treat :)

Lunch
- Left over soup - We still have enough for 2 bowls, I froze it - We'll see how it does.
- Cornbread
- Apple Juice

Dinner
- Taco Salad -> We used the hard corn tortillas, I'm not sure about the healthiness of this meal. I would think it's pretty good for you other than being red meat. Any body have idea?
- Apple Juice

Snack: Raisins

Water - I think I only got down 2. I did drink apple juice a bit during the day. It is a weekend.

Keeping to the Routine

It's Saturday, a day to break the norm and sleep till noon - oh wait that was me last year :) I woke up this morning @ 6:30 without an alarm and got up. I'm loving this new morning me. I enjoy the quiet time and I get so much done!

Working on Alice's photo shoot photo's this morning. I have so much to learn, but I think I can save enough that she will be happy, I pray I can.

Today is Mama Project Day :) We are working in her house to get several small things done that have been collecting. It will be fun, all three of us working together. I pray God be with us though, you know how people can be when they work together :) LOL

On a fun note we watched Red last night. Very fun movie - Well worth the rental. I may even buy it eventually.

Well I'm off to look at next week's menu while Lightroom finishes rendering Alice's photos. That program is such a memory hog, but I love it. It really is an awesome program for photographers who don't want to really do heavy editing but need some editing and organizing. Best organizer - EVER! Plus it links in with Smugmug so getting my pics out to the web is super easy.

Have a great day my friends. May God be with you as you enjoy the weekend. Food log below for those interested.

1/28

Breakfast
- 1 piece oatmeal raisin bread
- 1/2 Grapefruit
- Coffee

Lunch
- Ham Sandwich on Honey Oat Bread
- Salad with Light Dijon Mustard
- Apple Juice

Snack
- Homemade Cake Lady brought to work (small piece), felt icky after (not long, but just why did I eat that, too much sugar rush). Note desert is good, but fruit is too and you don't feel blah after... Not that I'm giving up cake.

Dinner
- 2 Bowls leftover soup
- 1 piece leftover cornbread
- Salad

Snack
- Kettle Popcorn (bagged)

Life Continues with Joy

The new me continues and I'm loving it. This week completes week 2 of our workout/eating and I'm still enjoying it. No way that is under my own power - God is doing a work and I'm excited about it!

I mentioned a work situation in my blog yesterday. As a testimony I just want to say God stepped in, the meeting was ZERO drama, and all is well. Nothing is impossible when you turn it over to the Lord. Just sayin :)

Yesterday overall was a really good day, complete with a leg work out and 2 miles walked. Yes my legs are currently jelly! Jack is having some kidney stone issues so he had to skip, but Mama and I figured out the equipment with some help, before long we will be gym pros :) hee.

Today is Friday and we have a movie night planned, Red. I can't wait to see it. It looks like it is going to be really good. I'll let you know. And with that I'll wish you a blessed day. Time to get ready to face the day. Food log from yesterday below for those following.

Breakfast
- 2 pieces oatmeal raisin toast
- Maple/Brown Sugar Oatmeal
- Coffee

Lunch
- Baja Grilled Chicken Salad with Water - really good, had black beans in it - I'm sure the dressing wasn't healthy, but it tasted good and had some nice spice - Carolina Ale Business Lunch

Snack
- Banana

Dinner
- Mama made a Beef Veggie Stew, very hearty and YUMMY. - I had two bowls. ****, she is supposed to right down what she put in it for me.
- Cornbread made with light butter and olive oil. I actually liked it cooked better this way than I do with veggie oil, it was lighter.
- Sweet Tea

I'm finding it heard to track the water but I think I got 3 down yesterfday....

Work Out Time

Wow, the work outs are kicking my butt some. I need to push myself a bit more, but I'm getting better each day. I ran 2 laps yesterday, today I did 3.5. I had to break it up a bit, but I did it. We also walked 2 miles and I did my weights and my legs are like jelly. The weights today weren't too bad, but my legs are dying, lol. It takes time to undo years of neglect and I'll do it - just going to take some time.

The day was good, productive and full of meetings. The lady that works with me is stressing because she is behind. She needs to learn to let it go a bit, compared to me she is current. She was in my bosses office with the door closed when I left so I'm sure tomorrow there will be a bit of drama. I pray I handle it well and right now I claim peace over the situation in Jesus name!!!!

I'm still loving life and loving this new me. I pray it continues. And with that I wish you a terrific evening. Foodie Journal for the day is below.

Breakfast
Maple / Cinnamin Oatmeal
1 Piece of Oatmeal / Raisen Bread
Coffee

Lunch
Grilled Chicken on Pasta in a Creole sauce - Business Lunch, I'm sure it wasn't super healthy, but it was good.
Water

Dinner
1 Rib
Salad
Potato Salad
1 Piece of Honey Wheat Butter Bread, not as good as 100%.
Cabbage
English Peas
Tea

Water Count: 111

Good Morning

Good Morning Blogland,

I hope this day finds you full of joy and wonder at the things God has made.

Yesterday was great! The day was productive at work and then we went to the Gym for our first "formal" work out. Since we are learning the equipment it took 1.5 hr, but that will get faster. We all did really well, I was so proud of Mama for doing the weights. We are on same regiment (or really close) and I know a few of them kicked my rear, ok so all of them kicked my rear :) Especially the Chest Press and the Overhead Press, man! I'm super out of shape. We couldn't' get two of the running machines beside each other so we did the track instead. I ran almost 2 laps with Jack (12 laps = 1 mile) and I almost died. Got get my cardio healthier, but Rome wasn't built in a day and I'll get there! All things are possible with God and will power :)

We then came home and had dinner (details below), Jack bathed the cats who looked liked drowned rats (so funny) and I spent some time with Mama helping her on the computer. It was a good night and I'm thankful to be able to be surrounded by family who loves me.

What are you thankful today?

And with that I'll leave you for the day. I hope you have a great one.

Yesterday's Meals:

Breakfast
- Bowl of Raisen Bran + Coffee

Lunch
- Business Lunch: Carolina Ale - Grilled Tuna on a Salad with Light Dressing + Water - no idea if it was in olive or veggie oil, but it was good. Hopefully it was healthy.

Dinner
- Ribs (She boiled them, then covered in BBQ sauce) - Yumm
- 1 Piece of Bread - Honeybutter Something, not whole wheat, but better than white.
- Potato Salad, home made - yumm.
- Boiled Cabbage cooked in olive oil with a bit of light butter. Not sure why both were in but it was good. I need to try and cook this and see how to do it. I love cabbage.
- Mixed Veggies, cooked
- Salad with Light Dijon Dressing
- 1 Glass of Tea

Water intake for day 3

Physical Assessment

Good Morning Blogland. I hope this day finds you full of joy!

I ran out of time yesterday and didn't get my daily blog in. I'm trying to be sure I log our progress in the food/health department as I need the reminder of what I am doing. Plus, I'm enjoying it - just hope I'm not boring blogland too much :)

Yesterday was good. Work was good, though a little scattered. We didn't have to be to the gym yesterday until 6 for our assessment so I had time to run an errand at Lowes between that and Work. -> Had to pick up an extra remote... By the way, as a side note we have a new remote for our fan in the bedroom. I know it sounds silly, a remote for the light /fan. Lord, it is such a blessing. If you don't have one - Pick one up today. It is so nice to cut the fan off before getting out of bed. I am loving it ... I had to pick up another one for the chandellier in our living room since there is no wall that goes to the switch. Yes I have a weird house :)

Anyway, just thought I'd share that, they aren't that expensive and I LOVE it!

We then went to the gym to meet our trainer. He measured us, taught us how to use the equipment and helped us develop a plan for us to really get started. Last week all we did was walk, but we will be adding weights this week and maybe a walking machine. I'm not sure how the machines will work because there are only 4 of them that I think work for Mama and we want to work out together so we may be on the track for the walking and then just push ourselves a bit more, I have a feeling getting two machines beside each other will be difficult... We will see.

Anyway, it was a good session, very informative and I'm not scared of the equipment anymore :) We also talked Nutrition some... He recommended moving from Hamburger to Turkey. I may give it a shot in some things... though I'm not 100% willing to give it up. I will go lean though :)

And with that I'll leave you with yesterday's food menu. It's Mama's week to cook so no new recipes from me, but I'll be trying some new ones next week, just got find which ones :) Have a great day blogland! May God bless and keep you as the day continues.

Breakfast

1/2 Grapefruit + 2 Pieces Raisen Bread
Coffee

Lunch

1/2 Left over Steak
Left over Steamed Veggies
1 Piece Wheat Bread
Sweat Tea

Snack: Grapes

Dinner
1 & 1/2 Tuna Fish Salad on Wheat Bread
Apple
Tea

Drinks - Limiting Coffee to 2 a day and drinking water except for meals. I think I managed 3 16 oz Deer Park's yesterday. Need to get to 4 to be recommended water intake. Going to try and keep better track of this for next few days.

Craft Room Done

Today has been great. For the first time ever I have my own "craft" area. I finally finished unpacking the spare bedroom :)

Unpacked boxes
Got 3 boxes ready for Goodwill
Took Stuff out to the Building
Got extra paintings stored away

Once I got all that done i was able to set up a great craft area for both my sewing and my scrapbooks. I have lots of room and everything is neatly labeled. I'm in love it and can't wait to use it.

By doing this I was also able to empty up my desk a good bit (since the scrap-booking stuff moved) so now I have more room in two areas. Just awesome - so super excited!

It took me most of the day, but it is done. Woot! Crafts coming soon.

Going to chill and watch some TV. Have a terrific night guys ! May God give you a great night sleep and a terrific week.

Food Update below for those interested.

Breakfast:

- Scrambled Eggs with a bit of milk - ****
- Bacon (Microwaved) - ***
- Left over sausage from Sat. - ****
- Wheat / Honey Oat Bread - *****
- Cantaloupe - *****


Lunch
- Ham /Cheese Sandwich - ****
- Banana - ****
- Jack had Salad - *****

Dinner
- 1/2 of a Left over Steak - *****
- Mixed Veggie (frozen) - *** - I still need to learn how to melt Velveeta cheese
- Creamed Corn (canned) - ****
- Baked Potatoes - ****
- Wheat Bread - ****

Weekend Bliss

This weekend has been nice so far, no stress - just doing some things on my list, piddling and enjoying the fact that I can.

Yesterday I woke up SUPER early @ 4:30 and just couldn't sleep so figured, get up. I made a rambled blog and then to begin research our new eating style some more, I want to make sure we are doing this right, but at the same time I'm not at the point where I'm going to go insane.

I.E. - Whole Milk, love it, will probably drink it till I die
- Sugar (refined) - Yes its not great for you and I'm going to try and cut it out of food I buy (i.e. - no hamburger helper - I mean geash, what does that need sugar in it for), but I'm not changing to a splinda or anything at this time. We don't cook with it too much and I'll try to reduce it in what I buy processed but... I love my sugar.

But I can swap to 100% whole grain foods (be sure and learn how to read the packages apparently the co that sell it to us can be "friendly with their words") and I can cook with olive oil, change to light butter, light mayo/salad dressings, eat more veggies, have fruit around for snacks vs. Little Debbie's and know what goes into our body.

So that is what we are doing. It's fun to learn how and honestly I'm really enjoying the experience. Next week is Mama's week to cook and I need to replace a couple items in her kitchen, not fair to ask her to replace it since we are the ones that want her to use them. While she takes the reins I'll be figuring out what is on the agenda for the following week.

Tomorrow we have our "health" assessment at the gym. Wish us luck. They are going to help us develop something for us and teach me how to use the machines. We got 6 free sessions with the membership and I'm looking forward to getting really started.

And with that I'll leave you with yesterday's foodie update. God bless you on this Sunday morning. May God reach down and touch you where you are in a mighty way. Love you and see you on the flip side.

Also note - Do you have a healty recipe you love? If so please share :)

Breakfast
- Eggs scrambled with cheese and red bell peppers (I put a little milk in) - **** - Very good, though next time I may add another veggie too for a bit more flavor. Jack really liked it but also thought another veggie may be good.
- Smoked Sausage, pan heated (no oil added) - ***** - Ok so not healthy, but I'm not planning on cutting out red meat, just may buy leaner cuts and it tasted super yummy.
- Honey Oat Bread - ***** - Note Jack doesn't want his toasted in the future.

Ease to Cook 3 out 10, too long for weekdays, but great for the weekend.

Lunch
- Salad - ***** - Based on research I changed our salad up a bit, added more color: Iceberg/Romain/Red Cabbage/Cucumber/Red Bell Pepper/Green BellPepper - I Loved the new textures. Will go this way from now on. I also top mine with cheese. Tried a new "fat free" honey dijon mustard dressing that was really good. - FYI I make a really big bowl so it last us a few days.
- Ham Sandwich with Cheese - ***** - Super easy and always a fav. - I'm making the transition to wheat bread and had 1/2 sandwich on 100% Whole Wheat and 1 on Honey Oat. I can eat the whole wheat and it is good so we will begin to transition over to that for future meals after we eat what we have.

Dinner
- Salad - *****
- Baked Potatos w/ Light Butter and Cheese - *****
- Steak marinated in Dale Sauce - ***** - I may move to the reduced sodium Dale Sauce, have't tried it. We both love this marinade though so it may have to be an unhealthy staple. The sodium in it is out of this world. We did both only eat 1/2 a steak and found that it was more than enough food. Amazing how you don't need ad much as you think sometimes, plus now I have steak for today.
- Pumpernickle Bread - ***** - Toasted

Not new at all but easy easy meal to cook - Always a Win in my household.

4:30 - Awake

It's 4:30 and I'm awake. It's funny I actually started to go to bed at 10:30 when I was sleepy, but delayed because I wanted to check out a recipe or two online... next thing I know I didn't get to bed till almost 12 and now I'm awake. Sleepy a little, but thoughts racing through my head of what I want to do etc... so I figured I would get up and, eat an apple, and write some things down to see if I can't slow the roll and get some more shut eye.

It's really amazing the things that go through your head while you are trying to go to sleep, plans for the house, foodie plans are racing in my mind at the moment, things you plan to do the next day and recently planning the most effective way to do them (why I don't know, just is). Work is also meddling it's way in, things I need to do. I'm trying to push that out with a forklift, this is my weekend - NO WORK ALLOWED!

You know what ---- It feels good to be happy/content. I've been pleased before and I've been happy before to a degree, but nothing like this. Nothing this consistent, this eternal, this pleasant. I thank God for this change in me, this light switch that seems to have been cut on, and pray that it continues. I pray that those around me share in the joy and elation I feel.

And with that blogland I will bid you a night. I'm going to get out my handy list, because oh how I love logical list that I can mark a line through in my cute notebooks that are always around and then go back to try and get a few hours of shuteye before I'm taking pictures of little monsters :)

Thanks for listening to the ramble, God bless - love you.

Happy Friday Blogland

Happy Friday Blogland, I hope this day finds you full of joy and expectation.

I missed my blogging last night of our new life because Jack stole the laptop (laptop thief :) ) hee. But overall yesterday was great. Good work done, healthy eating (I hope), 45 min walk (with 2 laps ran) and a nice dinner at home with family + a couple of chores.

I'm just loving this new me and pray that God helps her to stay around. I love the energy, the focus on new things and well just the excitement that I feel.

Tomorrow I get to do a photo-shoot for a family down the street. I've never done one so it will be an experience. Wish me luck, I'm doing it for free so hopefully they will be happy with what they get :) LOL

Today I'm also starting Friday Celebration @ lunch with some girls. I'm hoping we can all go out and get some Friday fun on to end the week. A treat for all of us and a reward for my trying to eat in at home ($$$) at least 3 days a week. I hope it works out.

Next week is Mama's week to cook - we divide every other week, so I'll be researching the recipes for 2 weeks from now and checking in occasionally. She is cooking healthier too, though I may have to watch her :) LOL Love you guys! Have a terrific day.

Yesterday's foodie items are below - Yumm, Yumm :) Love you guys, have a blessed and happy Friday!

Breakfast -

- 1/2 Grapefruit + Coffee

Lunch
- Left over noodles with tuna salad (Tuna/Mayo/Salt/Pepper/Onion) mixed in - *** - Note, we tried swapping to light mayo, Jack bought Miracle Whip, that is a no go for me. Going to have to try another brand or something, I didn't like the Wang it gave the food...
- Left over Green Beans/Squash from night before.

Dinner
- Hamburger Veggie Soup - ***** - This is the second time I've made this dish and I'm sure there is recipe somewhere, but I threw it together. - Super easy, fairly healthy (I hope) and super yummy.

Recipe:
Chop Bell Pepper
Chop Onion
Cook 1 ib Hamburger Meat with Bell Pepper and Onion in it - I also added garlic salt/salt/pepper

Open Cans of
- Corn
- Stewed Tomato's
- Green Beans

Heat for 30 min and serve.

I tried canned Ocra in it last time I made it and didn't like it. I think next time I may make the meat the night before and cook it in the crock pot so I can add fresh potato's/carrots and maybe some squash. The potato's / carrots take to long to cook to try adding them the night of I would think.

- Unhealthy Biscuits out of Can also served, but hey Rome wasn't built in a day :)
-

New Life Continues

My metamorphosis into who ever continues. I'm enjoying this, enjoying my life, enjoying the energy (though it is going down some) and loving my family.

God is good all the time isn't he?

Today I woke up, before my alarm and got out of bed. Me getting up before 30 minutes after my alarm goes off is unheard of. I've never been a morning person, but everyday this week I've been up in time to at least eat something before going to work and in some instances doing a chore or two. Loving it...

I got dressed and ate breakfast, started a load of cloths, unloaded the dishwasher, copied pics onto my computer and headed to the office. Work was productive and I got to come home for lunch where I did a couple more chores (folded cloths/started fresh load). Went back to work, got stuff done in a systematic manner and then went to walk for 45 minutes at the gym with Mama and Jack. Came home cooked dinner, played Scrabble with Mama and my brother and now I'm here talking to you... Yep good day overall. Productive and Blessed.

And in continuing with our food experiments / tracking I did try two new recipe's tonight (kinda).

Breakfast:
- Instant Oatmeal out of packet - *** - Not as healthy as the homemade one the other day, but quicker, made less and well tasty - 10 out of 10 for ease

Lunch
- Ham/Cheese Sandwich on Honey Oat Bread - *** - Super easy and tasty
- Left Over Salad - *****

Dinner
- Baked Chicken Marinated in Herb and Garlic Marinade - **** - Not really new on the baked chicken, but first time I've used the Marinade - Everyone really loved it, had good flavor.
- Green Beans (canned) with Fresh Squash - **** - Not new but super easy and healthy.
- Apple Glazed Sweet Potato's - ** - Flavor was ok for me and Mama, but Jack doesn't like Sweet Potato's so he was a no go. It wasn't hard to make, though it took longer than it said it would to cook and cutting raw sweet potato's into thin slices is not easy by no mean - Ease to Make due to cutting on this would be 6 out of 10 to me, everything else was pretty easy.
- Bread and Lite Margarine - *****

Overall Ease of Dinner - 4 out of 10 - I'll do almost all of it again, though I don't think the Sweet Potato dish will go in my file to be made again. Live and learn, but fairly healthy meal overall (I hope).

Hee - I'm enjoying this cooking process. It's fun to play, tomorrow is a simple soup that I've made before, but it's healthy and I can make enough of it to last into the weekend :)

Thanks for reading my ramble blog friends. May God bless and keep you this evening and for the days to come. Have a terrific night - Love you.

Recipe Gone Wrong

Well, today was good, very productive. I got up, ate a grapefruit - **** - for breakfast, did a few chores and headed to work.

The day was productive with a good lunch at home in the middle of the day (tuna salad in leftover noodles - ***. Went for a 45 minute walk at the gym, ran to the grocery store and came home to try the latest recipe:

- Thai Scallops & Noodles - * - NO GO for me, though I did substitute shrimp since I don't like Scallops - Jack liked it pretty good (he said), but to me it was way too peanut buttery and well just gross.

- Salad - *****
- Honey Wheat Bread (toasted) - ****
- Raisen Bran Ceral :) - ****

Won't be doing that one again, but hey you never know till you try. Out of the week so far this is the first one I hated so hey I'll take what I can get. Tomorrow is a Chicken Dinner with some new sides - wish me luck.

Still getting stuff done and loving it. Love you guys - God Bless!

Energy / Health Foodie / LIfe is Great

The past few days have been incredible / amazing / productive / etc...

I'm not sure if it is the steroids the Dr. has me on, the food choices or the exercise, but I have had more energy in the past few days than I think I have had in my life and I'm loving it. The odd thing is I've had less sleep than ever as well - so odd.

Thursday night, as you know from my rambling I was up in till 4 AM, but despite that Friday was a terrific day. I got so much done at work (a productive/successful day), then came home and made the first "healthy" meal of our new life. If is not exactly like we ate super unhealthy before, just trying to be more focused at this point about it. I have never been the super "fry" everything cook or anything, but I'm trying to cook in more healthy oils / with more concentration on veggies / fruit snacks and etc...

But I digress - over the next few days I hope you don't mind if this turns into a bit of a food blog. I want to use this to track what recipes work / what doesn't etc.. So you ready ?

1/15

Dinner
-Flounder: Marinated in Cajun Sauce - NO (bland/too fishy)
-Frozen Brocolli with Cheese - *** - Good but I need to learn the cheese better (it got hard)
- Salad - ***** - Can never go wrong here, though I probably need to check the dressings we use to make sure they are good for us. But Rome was not built in a day.

Ease to Make 3 out of 10

1/16

Breakfast
-Strawberry Pancakes - * -Pancakes are good, but you can't cook the strawberries inside of them. it has to be a topper.
-Bacon - Microwaved - ***** -Not too healthy, but I got most of the greese off and well just yummy.

Ease to Make - 6 out of 10

Dinner
-Zesty Chicken Salsa - **** - Good Flavor in the Chicken -Jack liked salsa topping (said he could eat it as a salad in itself), maybe add a bit more lime next time/or let it mix flavors longer.

-Field Peas out of Can - *** - Love these
-Biscuits (canned) - *** - not too healthy, but I love them
-Salad - *****

Ease to Make 3 out of 10

1/17

Breakfast
-Apple Oatmeal (with fresh apples)- * - Makes way too much (would need to cut recipe in 1/3) - Not sweet enough - which it wouldn't be since it's healthy, but the flavor didn't do it for me - Took too long to make for breakfast

Ease to Make 5 out of 5 (not hard just too much time for breakfast)

Lunch
-Left overs from 1/16.

Dinner
-Tomato Basil Chicken - **** - Need to only cook the pasta amt required in the recipe vs. winging it and making way too much - Need to use 3 tomatos vs. 2 as there needed to be more pasta that way you can really drown the pasta a bit/help the flavors mix. But I liked the salsa flavor.

- Salad - *****
- English Peas out of Can - ***
- Pumpernickle Bread - *****

Ease to Cook - 5 of 10

Well that is the cooking segment for today, but that is not everything. Remember I told you this weekend was productive.

Friday Mama and I went shopping for this "healthy food spree". I had to go back and buy new basics as the oils / marinades / spices are all different from what I normally buy and who help you better learn how to shop for groceries than your Mother. Something I never really did with her before it was kinda cool.

Saturday Mama and I spent several hours shopping - finding and marking stuff off the list that I made Thursday night.

- Door Bells for the house
- Fabric for Curtains upstairs (57 for fabric vs. 40 for one panel (I need 8 panels)-WIN
- Puzzle Board / Puzzle Board Cover
- Lowes Run
- Spice Racks
- Helped Jack get Insullation to Dump

Jack also was productive:

- Organized his shop some more
- Carried A bunch of stuff to Building
- Loaded 2nd Load of Insullation

Sunday Mama and I went shopping for a few more things that I didn't get to on Sat.

- New Coffee Pot (Keurig 1450)
- Got some organizational baskets for spices
- Target Run

I also got all of this shopping accomplished plus some more:

- Kitchen Reorganized
- Washed Place Mats (got them ready to iron)
- Washed Odd House Stuff (extra linens / etc..)
- Cleaned up the shopping spree
- Reviewed recipes / rated them / planned rest of week
- Organized Laundry Room a bit

We attempted to watch a move "dinner for Schmucks" - I do not recommend at all. We actually cut it off before it got even 1/2 way through. We then wente to bed at 10:30, but I did not fall asleep until 4ish - again. Yet again today was great.

- I got a ton of work done / very focused / productive.
- We went to work out - Walked 45 Min - 2.5 MM
- Went and exchanged spice rack
- Bought Mama "magic jack"
- Cooked Dinner
- Cloths are layed out for tomorrow
- Work out cloths ready
- Washed a load of cloths
- Boiled Eggs for tomorrow's lunch (tuna / noodle salad - using left over noodles from dinner)

It's 10:30 and I am beginning to get tired. Hopefully I'll sleep tonight - I'm loving this energy level. If it is the steroids, hopefully by time I stop taking them, the workout, food will have kicked in and I can continue this. I'm just loving it...

On a unfortunate note I do need prayers for the following:

- Lady I work with husband had to go the hospital today. Pray that God will bring his healing hand to him and his calming hand to her.
- My pastor's wife (Linda's) mother is having some health issues (Cancer). Please keep her in your prayers.
- Another lady I work with has been diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

Please keep these three in your prayers / thoughts.

God Bless You and Thank you for listening once again to this ramble/list/push into the void. Love you friends - God Bless!

Restless

It's 1:30 AM and I was laying in bed failing to fall asleep my mind was racing. Racing with plans, thoughts, dreams, hopes, failures, prayers and etc... So I figures I would get up and put some of those thoughts down... hoping it would empty my mind so the sleep I need will come.

Do you find it odd that life / moods / dreams come in spurts? There are days I could care less about anything - the thought of completing another day is daunting and then there are times where I can do anything. I guess it's part of being human, part of being a woman and well just me. I've been this way all my life - the roll-a-coaster of feelings / dedication / will power.

Right now I'm in plan mode. I'm in clean mode. I'm in organize mode. I'm in list mode. I'm also for the first time in my life getting serious about my health. I'm getting serious about getting into shape (started our workouts at the Y today). I'm getting serious about the food we put in our bodies. I Will have to relearn how to cook, but we are going to start eating better around here.

In addition to that I'm planning things in the house again. I had dropped into a state of melancholy where I didn't care if burned to the ground, but I'm getting back to wanting to decorate/organize etc... Slowly, but it's coming.

I'm also getting well. I got sick on the 30th of December and was out of work for over 5 days (7 total, but 2 were due Ice and boy was I glad for the ice). Today is the first day I've felt really human again. The Dr said it would take a few weeks before I was 100% but I'm done. I'm done being sick and getting sick so much. I'm hoping/praying this new found wellness kick will help. I'm hoping and praying it isn't' a kick but a new lifestyle. I'm determined to not call it a resolution as well I didn't start it on new years and I want it to be life long so there... It is a lifelong change that started today!

Work is work and I hate it. But am grateful for the job right now with two house payments. I think once Madison Green Sales I'm taking some time off - it still up in the air but I think I'm going to take some time to find me. I know that sounds odd, but I've been working since I was 15 - I worked full time during both degrees and fell into my career. It's a good one that has taken care of me, but I never took that self discovery time that most take in college. The time to figure out who you are and what you want to be. And the Lord willing I'm going to take it in the next few years... I'm going to find myself and I'm going to love her.

My husband is great. I looked at him tonight and realized that I am the most lucky woman alive. He understands me, gets that I am a roll-a-coaster and loves me regardless. He hugs me when I'm sad, stays away from me when I need him to and is always trying to help me find my happy place, where ever that is. He is giving and loving - while being hard as nails when he needs to be. God knew what he was doing when he put these two opposites together - I couldn't survive with anyone else.

And with that sappy step I'm going to stop and start writing my list on paper of the things I want to get done this weekend. Thanks for letting me send this out into the void, if you read it forgive the random nature of it and know I love the fact you took the time to let me share this piece of myself with you. God bless you and your family in this new year.

Love your cyber friend,

Mylerna

Christmas Season

It's two days before Christmas and I sit here wondering how? How did it get here that quickly? Wasn't just yesterday August?

No, seriously Ive got the shopping done but it just doesn't feel like Christmas. I've even had my family Christmas already, with the dinner, gifts and etc... but it doesn't feel like Christmas.

Why? I don't know. Nothing feels at it should right now, everything is skewed. Why? Again I don't know - Work is a part of it, but it can't be wholly to blame as we make our own attitudes.

So what now? Now I open my eyes - Thank God for sending his only begotten Son to die on a cross for me and celebrate his birthday with thankfulness that it should be given. I may not feel like it's Christmas and I may not ever get in the "spirit" this year, but I know this. I am truly thankful for what I have, for my family (even though I love to hate them) and for a God who loves me enough to give me everything. May the upcoming year have me spending more time on my relationship with him and less time stressing over nothing.

I wish you and yours a very merry Christmas! May God Bless and Keep you and yours.

Dreams, Tiredness, Stubborness, Me

Tonight I sit here - my eyes drooping, knowing I need to be in bed, but instead I sit here. Posting things, surfing the net and reflecting. Reflecting on what it is to be me.

I do this ever so often, quite often actually:

I reflect, reflct on what I want, where I am and why I am. I never come up with any answers, but I reflect.

I worry, worry we made the wrong decision to move here, worry I'm not being supportive enough, worry that I am not being optomistic enough, worry that we made the right decision to move here and I'm just not letting go to my old life.

I want, want the house to be something I'm proud of, want a job I enjoy, want friends to go and do with, want to not have to work at all, want a child.

I slack, slack on doing the projects in the house, slack on my prayer life, slack on doing anything fitness related, I slack.

I appreciate, appreciate a husband that loves me, I appreciate a husband that puts up with me even if he doesn't necessarily get me, I appreciate a mother that supports me, I appreciate the roof over my head, I appreciate the food in my belly, I appreciate the right I have to sit here in my pjs thanks to those who have gone before, I appreciate.

I wish, wish I was more of a doer, wish I had more drive than I had dreams, wish I didn't want so much, wish I had it all, I wish I was anyone but me.

And with that I'll go to bed - my reflections are getting deep, which means I'm more tired than I originally believed. So good night dear void - til next time.

Day 6 Wilmington

We got up around 10 and went out for breakfast – Waffle House, my home away from home. We then wandered down to the historic district and took the trolley tour. Wilmington has one of the largest historic districts I think I’ve seen. The homes are gorgeous as is the feel of the town. While on the tour we also learned that One Tree Hill, one of my shows, is filmed in the town and was actually filming that day –How Cool Was That! You know I had to check it out. So after the trolley ride we walked up to the Cloths Over Bros store, not really a store, just a front covered with plastic and lots of movie people outside.

We got a drink at the café across the street and watched for a bit. I didn’t get to see any of the actors, but it was still cool.

We then headed back to the hotel to rest a bit before dinner.

For dinner we met some longtime friends, Mark & Robyn who moved up here about 10 years ago… And it’s been that long since we had seen them. Their daughter is almost 18, she has grown so much – I was amazed. It was really nice to see them! I hope it’s not another 10 years before we see them again.

After dinner we headed home, back to Grovetown. The trip was a great success, can’t wait till our next journey

Day 5 – Wright Brothers / Roanoke / Rest

We got up this morning and ate the continental breakfast – this hotel has an awesome breakfast, especially given it’s free. We then went to the Wright Museum and saw where the first motorized flight took place. It’ awesome to think how far we have come, in such a short time from that short flight. Jack seemed to enjoy the museum; it’s nice to see him interested in something. Nice to see him really enjoying an event, he normally just tags along. I think he has fun, but it’s hard to tell sometimes.
We then went to lunch at the Full Moon in Montea, per the dolphin driver’s suggestion. I wish I could have my money and my hour back.... that’s all I’ll say about that.

We then walked around Montea for a bit and then escaped back to the hotel for a nap – it’ s a good day for a lazy afternoon. Jack and I walked down to the beach for a few minutes before resting – the waves are huge as Hurricane Earl plays havoc in the sea – the sun brutal and the day perfect.

The nap afterwards was also great, followed by dinner at the “Kill Devil Hill Diner”, good stuff. Now we are back in our hotel enjoying a night of relaxation. Tomorrow we leave for Wilmington, doubt we can drive down the coast like I wanted to, thanks Earl – but at least we got to see the islands. So far it’s been a nice relaxing trip.

Day 4 – Cape Hatteras / Dolphin Watch

We woke up and went down to breakfast around 9 AM. We were all tired, not sure why, but we all got started a bit slow. Since the hurricane is threatening to arrive and mess with our schedule we decided to drive on down and see Cape Hatteras. The drive was about an hour and it was a peaceful drive, but honestly I could have slept. We got to the Cape Hatteras and I enjoyed taking pictures of it... we decided not to walk up it. 12 flights of stairs and the heat not a great combo, but it was nice to look at.

We then stopped at a local diner for some lunch and headed back to Kitty Hawk. We elected to call it an early afternoon and get some rest – I walked in the hotel, laid down and went to sleep, guess I needed it. We got up and went to the dolphin watch tour at 4:30.

We got to see lots of dolphins; they were a full school of them around the boat. It was terrific. We were out for 2 hours and I’d say at least 1 ½ of that was with Dolphins; we also got to see the sun set which was terrific. We ate dinner at 5 Guys and got a great hamburger; no matter the state they always make the best burgers.

We then went to the beach and watched the waves for a few – they are getting higher and higher as the storm approaches. I love to watch them; it’s super relaxing.

Day 3 - Currick / Corral / Horses

We got up this morning and went to breakfast around 9. We then left the hotel and headed up to Currick Lighthouse. The heat was intense and the lighthouse was interesting. It was too hot to go up in it, but I enjoyed taking pictures from the ground and the area was quaint. We also walked down the boardwalk and took pictures of a blue heron bird that was hanging out, he was very pretty.

We were scheduled to go on a wild horse tour at 3:30, but we were done early.... so we called them and moved our trip up to 1, which required us to find some food quick. We ended up a BBQ restaurant called Smokeys at 12:30 ... there was no one in it except the waitress. She was older and super nice, but the BBQ sandwich we all agreed on due to time left something to be desired.

We then went to meet with the tour and it was worth it. We were in a suburban with an open back – the best of convertible and AC :) We drove on the beach and though two beach towns. Towns with no paved roads and that require a 4 wheel drive... The horses are wild and you aren’t allowed within 50 feet, that is unless they are standing in your garage enjoying the shade, which they do. We saw lots of horses in various herds and it was terrific. They were gorgeous and unthreatened by us. Out here they are the top of the food chain and know it.

Our tour guide was interesting. He was around 30 and has lived in multiple states...he loves the theater and him and his wife are planning a movie this winter about how someone 20/30 deals with having cancer. I wish them the best; it’s nice to see free spirits doing what they love.

After the tour we headed back to the hotel and took a nap. I can’t tell you how much I needed it – the sun can take it out of you. We got up around 6 and went to a Southwestern Restaurant called “Chili Peppers”. The chips/dip were ok, but my steak salad was excellent. The steak was moist and flavorful.

After dinner we passed dunkin doughnuts, which of course meant I got coffee – finally! We then went to play putt putt – it was fun, but at times it felt rushed due to the crowds. We had a good time overall though... despite my multiple 5 putts :)

We then came back and went and sat on the beach for a good hour or so. It was very relaxing and the crabs were still numerous. It was great...

Day 2 - Raleigh to the Outer Banks

Yesterday I didn’t log it as i should, but it was a good day. We got up a little late and left our hotel in Raleigh around 10:30. We then went to the JC Ralston Gardens at the University in town. It was nice, though it didn’t grab my interest as I thought it was. I blame it on lack of coffee.... We spent an hour at the Gardens and then left to find the1911 Carousel – this required a stop at the Waffle House for cold drinks for them or coffee for me...

We then left Raleigh for the Outer Banks. It was about a 4 hour drive and Jack was nice to all of it so i could read my book. We made it to the hotel around 4 and decided to rest for an hour or so before heading to grab some dinner. I finished my book during the down time and we later went to the Black Pelican at the recommendation of the hotel clerk. It was one of the most interesting restaurants... The lights were Tiffany, the chairs plastic and the decor lifesavers.... Upon looking at the menu I liked to have choked with $15 to $30 plates, but after eating the crab legs I can say it was well worth it. OMG that was good - Jack had to get it where I could eat it, but it was delicious.

We then came back to the hotel and took a walk on the beach. It was dark and the waves were crashing loudly. Very relaxing...... There were washed up Jelly Fish and little crabs were everywhere, both babies and large crabs. It was great and seeing them scurry made the trip worth it.

Day 1 - Raleigh

Yesterday was the first day of our vacation and it was very enjoyable. We woke up and were at the Farmers Market Restaurant by 9 am. The food was great, the company better and the outdoor bistro that welcomed puppies make it perfect. After asking to sit outside I almost wish I hadn’t because the interior was decorated so fun with bright colors, but the sun was a welcome change from our normal day.

We then walked through the Farmers Market. Lots of people, fresh food and hustle/bustle. It was great. It got a lemonade drink that was awesome:

1 Squeezed Orange, ½ Lemon, ½ Lime, Tablespoon Cherry, Water, Ice, Shaken

After the market we went and visited the capital building. The outside of it wasn’t that impressive, but the inside had some great architecture. The downtown area of Raleigh was also great. You could tell that during the work week the hustle and bustle would be interesting to watch. After the capital we stopped for a drink at the local coffee shop and rested while we decided our next move. We ended up walking on down to the City Market to eat at a restaurant, but it ended up being closed. So we ate at a local Italian restaurant that was open instead, a great find. The food was good, the atmosphere homey and the murals on the wall gorgeous. I loved watching the families with their children and the staff who were obviously a family, even if it wasn’t by blood. There office was a table in the corner and the scattered paperwork just added to the charm.

After eating we drove to the executive mansion and the historic Oakwood district. The buildings were great though many could use some good old fashioned TLC. We then headed back to the hotel for some rest before the concert.

Jack and I left the hotel after some good napping on my part and went to get some food before going to the concert. We were going to do something quick like Subway, but ended up at a surprise, lucky find -> The Lotus Leaf. A great Thai restaurant that I loved. I got a dish with noodles, beef and a brown sauce that was ok – Jack got a sweet & sour veggie dish that was awesome.

We then went to the Adam Lambert concert at the Progress Energy Center. The venue was nice and the concert was incredible. His voice was so clean despite the loudness and the show was extremely entertaining. He will be an icon of our times. One thing that happened before he came out that was one of the most magical times I can ever remember. It was during the intermission and the lights had been up for a good 10 minutes. I guess people got tired of waiting -> so they decided to party. Collectively, magically hundreds of people started singing with the intermission music, dancing and generally partying. It was an awesome moment.

Overall the day was really fun and relaxing. A terrific anniversary – 6 years and counting. I couldn’t be more lucky.

Day 0 - Outer Banks

I'm a little late in posting these, but I like to have them out here as I enjoy looking back on them later and the net is a safe place to have them so here is our trip to the outer banks:

Day 0 – 8/27/2010

We left work, gave Iggy to Cheryl for safe keeping, packed the car and hit the road.

We stopped at South of the Border and messed around for a bit. Jack had never seen it and I don’t think he was impressed. However, it was fun to peruse the crazy shops, take pictures with the cheesy statues and get out of the car of a bit.

We then finished the trip to Raleigh and went to bed, sleep was a must.

Mentally Impaired?

I worry sometimes that I may be mentally unstable. I know many of you are going - about time you woke up and smelled realty, but I'm serious. I have some serious drastic mood swings that can last for seconds or weeks.

Here let me give you an example

Last Week = Lethargic, Didn't want to do anything, World Burn Up = I don't care, Hate my Life, Super Lonely, No Sunshine in my World, Million $$ Wouldn't be Folded Right, and I could go on and on.

Weekend = Reflective, Lonely, Nothing could Cheer Me Up, Missed ATL and my friends, Birthday Sucked, Etc...

Today = Worked Sucked as always, but I got shit done! Came home and studied a weeks worth of photography class, Dug down and played with some camera settings, Organized photo stuff, Got ready for this weeks material, Geeked out by making list for the house, myself, shopping, vacations, etc... Got folders and started planning some trips, Complete and total organizational geekfest.

Who knows what tomorrow will bring... here's hoping it's upbeat happiness with an attitude of I can/I will/I did. I'm sick of the other crap.