Making time for what really matters.

Thankful... Day 10

2011-11-10T15:50:00.004-05:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 10:
I am thankful for today... and everyday! It may seem small, but it's so important to be thankful for the present as well as the past and the future. God has blessed my life and I don't want to take any moment or breath for granted! I will never be at this point in my life again, so I must enjoy it and remember it! One reason I take so many pictures and journal is so I can look back and see where I was and how much I have changed from that point. I highly recommend it! I am thankful for the past, because it has brought me here to this point in my life, and I am thankful for the future... whatever it holds, only the Lord knows!

Reminds me of a quote that I've heard...

"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a God's gift. That’s why we call it the Present!"

Thankful... Day 9

2011-11-09T13:44:00.004-05:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 9:
I am thankful for the all the beautiful seasons! God is truly The Master Artist! Today Sophia and I went for a walk and it was so beautiful with all the beautiful leaves changing colors! I took advantage of this time and I was teaching Sophia all her colors, by showing her the different color leaves. She loved collecting all the colorful leaves! Autumn is definitely my favorite season, but I love all the seasons and I am always ready for the next one when it comes! I love them all for different reasons!

Reasons I love Autumn:
How colorful everything seems to be
It's cooler than Summer
Pumpkin patches
Football season
Thanksgiving
Hot apple cider
NC State Fair
Holly Day Fair
Using the fireplace
More time with family

And he changeth the times and the seasons:
Daniel 2:21

Thankful... Day 8

2011-11-08T16:25:00.000-05:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 8:
I am thankful for friends, near and far, new and old, young and old! Friends, those I have met and those I haven't! Friendships are blessing! Thankful for all the special people God has placed into my life! I hope that I can be as big a blessing to y'all, as you have been to me!

The Miracle Of Friendship

There is a miracle called Friendship
that dwells within the heart
and you don't know how it happens
or when it even starts.

But the happiness it brings you
always gives a special lift
and you realize that Friendship
is God's most precious gift.

By- Jean Kyler McManus

Thankful Day 6 and 7.

2011-11-07T09:34:00.000-05:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 6:
It was Sunday and I didn't want to be on the computer a lot, so instead of blogging, I spent time with them! Any who, Day 6: I am thankful for my Pastor and church family. I am so blessed to be under such convicting preaching that's not watered down in this modern day religion where "people claim the Name and remain the same." I love that everyone in the church is genuinely concerned for others. If we ever move for any reason, it would be difficult to find another church that my family loves as much as this one! Thankful for Northview Baptist Church!

Day 7:
Thankful for the roof over my head, the food in refrigerator and pantry, the running water in the pipes and electricity and heat and air conditioning. All the things that I may take for granted on a daily basis, but would be difficult to live without! I know that anytime you could take these necessities away. Thank you Lord for these things that make everyday life easier, and help me to be more aware of the small blessing and to not take them for granted when there are others that do not have such blessings.

Thankful... Day 5

2011-11-05T17:00:00.001-04:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 5:
I am thankful for my brother, Alex. I had 15 years where I was the only child, then Alex came along and changed all that and I wouldn't have it any other way! He is so sweet and I feel almost like a second mom to him! He is growing so fast and at 13 he is already taller than me! I can't wait to see the young man that he develops into!

I am also thankful for my sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Shelly and Jeremy and my niece, Shaylin! I love them very much and only sad that we don't live closer! I love talking to the them either on the phone or Skype! I love that our girls are so close in age and that they play together so sweetly when they do get to see each other. I love all the moments we share together!

Also thankful for my younger sister-in-law, Sara! She puts up with a lot from her siblings and I guess me too! But she is a very sweet, very smart girl! She has been a blessing to me. It's kinda like having the little sister that I never had! I love trying to give Godly advice from everything from boys to style! I hate that we don't get to see each other more and do more things together!

I love you all and thankful that you all are apart of my life!

Thankful... Day 4

2011-11-04T18:57:00.000-04:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 4:
I am thankful for my mother and father. God gave them to me for special reasons and I am thankful for that. Only wish that my family would have been more traditional, but still thankful nonetheless and where it has lead me to today! Thankful that my mom worked hard to keep me in a Christian school. I know that took a lot of sacrifice on her part and thankful that she loved and cared enough for me so I could attend Christian school.
Also thankful for my grandparents, who were second parents to me! They stepped in and spent a lot of time with me. My grandmother took me every where with her and taught me a lot about other cultures (and how to act in fancy restaurants at an early age... haha). My Papa stepped into the father role since I only saw my dad once or twice a year, but thankful that my dad continued to be apart of my life even though he lived far away.
I am also thankful for my mother and father-in-law. They have been such a great example for me and I love and appreciate them very much! They are truly have taken me into their family as their own! God knew exactly what I needed in my life and supplied it, as he always does!

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Patrick's Yummy Birthday Cake

2011-11-04T16:25:00.000-04:00

I made this Chocolate Cake for Patrick and it was delicious! I am not the biggest fan of chocolate cake with chocolate icing, but this one wasn't overly rich due to the coffee, which help cut the sweetness. I loved this cake and so did everyone else that tried it! I would definitely make this again and it was pretty easy to make and very basic ingredients. The only thing I added was chocolate shavings on top for a more decorated look! Here's the recipe if anyone else would like to make it!

Beatty's Chocolate Cake by Ina Garten

Ingredients
Butter, for greasing the pans
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for pans
2 cups sugar
3/4 cups good cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup buttermilk, shaken
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 extra-large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee
Chocolate Buttercream, recipe follows
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter two 8-inch x 2-inch round cake pans. Line with parchment paper, then butter and flour the pans.

Sift the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and mix on low speed until combined. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry. With mixer still on low, add the coffee and stir just to combine, scraping the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until a cake tester comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 30 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack and cool completely.

Place 1 layer, flat side up, on a flat plate or cake pedestal. With a knife or offset spatula, spread the top with frosting. Place the second layer on top, rounded side up, and spread the frosting evenly on the top and sides of the cake.

Chocolate Frosting:
6 ounces good semisweet chocolate (recommended: Callebaut)
1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 extra-large egg yolk, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
Chop the chocolate and place it in a heat-proof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Stir until just melted and set aside until cooled to room temperature.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until light yellow and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg yolk and vanilla and continue beating for 3 minutes. Turn the mixer to low, gradually add the confectioners' sugar, then beat at medium speed, scraping down the bowl as necessary, until smooth and creamy. Dissolve the coffee powder in 2 teaspoons of the hottest tap water. On low speed, add the chocolate and coffee to the butter mixture and mix until blended. Don't whip! Spread immediately on the cooled cake.

A time to be thankful... Day 3

2011-11-03T13:31:00.000-04:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 3:
I am thankful that God has blessed my life with Sophia Aurora Murray! She has truly enriched my life in ways I never thought possible. I feel honored to be the mother of this beautiful little girl, who is full of so much personality, laughter, energy, smiles, independence, love, sunshine and silliness! I always thought I had an idea of what it would be like to be a mother, but had no idea that it would be the hardest and most rewarding job I ever did! So thankful that God gave me the privilege of being a mother. There is nothing in this world that I would rather do!

A time to be thankful... Day 2

2011-11-02T23:15:00.003-04:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 2:
I am thankful for my dear husband! God brought him into my life a little more than 11 years ago. We were friends that became close friends and later became best friends! I love that we know each other so well. I love that we say the same things at the same time or as he says something that I was about to say! He is my soul mate!

He has been my Rock in hard times and love that I can rely on him for advice, support, and encouragement! I am so thankful for all he has done for me and Sophia. So thankful for a man that stands for what is right, works hard at work and home, and is a wonderful cook! I am blessed!

A time to be thankful...

2011-11-01T19:52:00.000-04:00

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

Day 1:
I am thankful for Jesus Christ, My Saviour! Without the Lord, I would be a lost sinner going to hell. But because He died on the cross, I am now a saved sinner on my way home! I was saved when I was 5 years old in Christian school, and later reassured my salvation in high school. So thankful that I knew the Lord at an early age, because he has carried me through a lot of hard times! I would hate to see where I would be without Him.

2 Corinthians 9:15
"Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift."

Braided Yeast Loaf

2011-08-23T09:34:00.000-04:00

Ingredients make 1 loaf:

1 tbsp active dried yeast
1 tsp honey
1 cup lukewarm milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
3 1/2 cups white bread flour
1 tsp salt
1 egg lightly beaten with 1 tsp milk, for glazing

Instructions:

1. Combine the yeast, honey, milk and butter. Stir and leave for 15 minutes to dissolve.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and egg. With a wooden spoon, stir from the center, incorporating flour with each turn, to obtain a rough dough.

3. Transfer to a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic. Place in a clean bowl, cover and leave to rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 1/2 hours.

4. Grease a baking sheet. Punch down the dough and divide into three equal pieces. Roll to shape each piece into a long, thin strip.

5. Begin braiding the the center strip, tucking in the ends. Cover loosely and leave to rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

6. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place the bread in a cool place while the oven heats. Brush with the glaze and bake until golden, 40-45 minutes. Place on a rack to cool.

This was pretty easy to make and very good! It is especially good warm with a little bit of butter, but what isn't good with a little bit of butter! ;) Hope you enjoy as much as we did!

Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding

2011-08-02T15:08:00.000-04:00

Recipe by Paula Deen

Ingredients
2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies
6 to 8 bananas, sliced
2 cups milk
1 (5-ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping thawed, or equal amount sweetened whipped cream

Directions
Line the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch dish with 1 bag of cookies and layer bananas on top.

In a bowl, combine the milk and pudding mix and blend well using a handheld electric mixer. Using another bowl, combine the cream cheese and condensed milk together and mix until smooth. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until well blended. Pour the mixture over the cookies and bananas and cover with the remaining cookies. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Taking it slow...

2011-07-25T14:56:00.000-04:00

One thing I always have a tendency to do is jump in too deep! I have so much passion for so many things that I can get carried away with ideas of grandeur! When I found out about Disney having a Princess Half-Marathon, I thought I have to do this now! But what I am trying to realize is that I don't have to run it now, but I can start by at least training for it, so when registration comes I know I will have done my part, BUT (and this is a BIG but) if God has bigger and better plans for me, I will happily decline! I am praying that God's bigger and better plans are becoming a Mother for the second time, which is more important to me right now than goals of running in a half-marathon because I can have that opportunity again but right now is the time for motherhood! And I want to embrace it wholeheartedly with no regrets! So we shall see what comes next in my future... baby or half-marathon! I am ready for either one, and I consider both victories!

Curried Shrimp-and-Corn Chowder

2011-05-09T10:49:00.000-04:00

From Southern Living Magazine
Patricia Gleason

Curried Shrimp-and-Corn Chowder
Makes 8 servings
Hands-on time: 1 hr
Total time: 1hr., 25min.

Ingredients:
1 med onion, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
2 cups fresh corn kernels (about five ears)
1 (14oz) can chicken broth
1 (13.5) can coconut milk
2 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 lb. peeled, large raw shrimp (26/30 count)

toppings: (optional) toasted coconut, thinly sliced green onions, coarsely chopped roasted peanuts

Directions:
Saute onion in hot oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat 5 minutes or until tender; add garlic, and saute 1 minute. Add Yukon gold potatoes and next 7 ingredients; bring to a boil, stirring often. Reduce heat, and simmer, stirring occasionaly, approx 25 minutes until potatoes are tender. Stir in shrimp; cook 4 to 5 minutes or just until shrimp turn pink. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with desired toppings.

This was very good! It is a soup that is good in winter or summer because it is hearty with potates, but also light because of the shrimp.

What makes a Mother...

2011-05-06T16:45:00.000-04:00

forget-me-not flower

I thought of you and closed my eyes
And prayed to God today,
I asked, "What makes a Mother?"
And I know I heard him say:
A Mother has a baby,
This we know is true
But, God, can you be a mother
When your baby's not with you?

Yes, you can, he replied
With confidence in his voice,
I give many women babies,
When they leave it is not their choice.
Some I send for a lifetime,
And others for the day,
And some I send to feel your womb,
But there's no need to stay.

I just don't understand this God,
I want my baby here.

He took a breath,
and cleared his throat,
And then I saw a tear.
I wish I could show you,
What your child is doing Here...

If you could see your child smile
With other children and say,
"We go to earth to learn our lessons
of love and life and fear,
but My mommy loved me so much
I got to come straight here!"
I feel so lucky to have a Mom who had so much love for me,
I learned my lessons very quickly,
My Mommy set me free.
I miss my Mommy oh so much
But I visit her each day.
When she goes to sleep,
On her pillow is where I lay.
I stroke her hair and kiss her cheek,
And whisper in her ear,
"Mommy, Please don't be sad today,
I'm your baby and I am here"

So you see my dear sweet one,
Your children are okay.
Your babies are here in My home,
And this is where they'll stay.
They'll wait for you with Me,
Until your lessons there are through,
And on the day that you come home,
they'll be at the gates waiting for you
So now you see
What makes a Mother,
It's the feeling in your heart,
It's the love you had so much of
Right from the very start!

Found this poem from a friend!

A Tea Party!

2011-04-26T16:04:00.000-04:00

Not that I really care about the big Royal Wedding coming up on Friday, but I do love learning about new cultures and like to take any occasion to educate myself about them. In high school, I especially loved British monarchy. But to get to the point, I am going to utilize this occasion to have a Full English breakfast complete with tea and scones. I am quite excited about this because really it is no different from what most people in America would eat for breakfast, aside from the black pudding and baked beans, I think I will skip those! :-/~ I may be having a little too much fun with this but I LOVE breakfast and weddings! So I can't wait to enjoy both together, a delicious breakfast and a beautiful wedding!

I only wish that Sophia is older so she could participate with me! I would really do a lot more. Like play Princess dress up with her and teach her about England and their culture! I can't wait to still do those things with her when she is older!

My Version of Southern Living’s Island Chicken and Rice

2011-03-10T19:45:00.000-05:00

I have been making the dish for a long time now. The first time I made it, Patrick and I were living in our first apartment, and he has loved it ever since! I like it too, because it is pretty easy and everything cooks in one large skillet, which makes clean-up easy!

Ingredients:

2 or 3 boneless skinless chicken breast
Salt
Pepper
Crushed red pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1 (14 oz) can chicken broth
1 (13.5oz) can coconut milk
¾ cup pineapple juice from pineapple slices or chunks

Directions:

Sprinkle chicken evenly with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper.
Brown chicken in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat 1-2 minutes each side. You just want to brown chicken not cook it through, or it will be over done later.
Remove chicken from skillet and drain extra oil from pan .
Add butter to skillet and melt, stirring to loosen particles from bottom of skillet; add 1 chopped onion, and sauté approx 4mins or until soft. Add rice, sauté 4mins; add garlic, and sauté 1min. Stir in chicken broth and next 3 ingredients and additional salt pepper, and crushed red pepper if using; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer 35mins or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Uncover and fluff rice and let stand 5mins before serving. Garnish with pineapple slices or chunks and chopped parsley.

***The original recipe used bone-in chicken, which needs to cook longer per side 8-10 minutes. And garnished with chopped macadamia nuts with the pineapple slices.

Chicken and rice burritos

2011-02-25T14:12:00.000-05:00

I made these Chicken and rice burritos a couple times and they are so good. I should definitely make them more! I am posting the recipe if anyone wants to try them. They are easy to make and good reheated for lunch the next day. If you try them, tell me how you liked them!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup long grain rice
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 7oz can chopped or diced tomatoes in juice
2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 1/4 cups grated Monterey Jack
4 tablespoons sour cream (optional)
6 grande-size flour tortillas

Directions:

1. Bring a saucepan of lightly salted 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the rice and cook for 8 minutes. Drain, rinse and then drain again.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add the onion, with the ground cloves and oregano, and fry 2-3 minutes. Stir in the rice and tomatoes and cook over low heat until all the tomato juice has been absorbed. Set pan aside.
3. Put chicken breasts in a large saucepan, pour in enough water to cover and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. You can tell by cutting into chicken. Lift chicken out of the pan onto a plate and cool slightly.
4. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Shred chicken by pulling apart with two forks, then add the chicken to rice mixture, with the grated cheese. Stir in sour cream, if using.
5. Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil and place them on a plate. Stand the plate over boiling water for about 5 minutes . OR, wrap in plastic wrap and heat in a microwave for 1 minute.
6. Spoon one-sixth of the filling into the center of a tortilla and fold in both sides. Fold the bottom up and the top down. You can secure with a toothpick, or lay it seam side down in shallow dish. Cover with foil and keep warm in oven while you make the rest.

The story of a Lifetime

2011-02-17T22:55:00.001-05:00

So for Christmas, my wonderful husband gave me a beautiful and thoughtful gift of a book titled "The Story of a Lifetime" and its pages are empty. I have the great task and duty of telling my and my family's story to my children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren! I am excited to learn things that I never thought to ask my grandparents and parents. I wish I had my great grandparents here to ask questions about their lives, but now it is too late. I don't want my great grandchildren to feel the same way. So now by filling the blank lines of this book they will know all about the time in which I lived. And if you think about, we have had many technological advances, some that we could not possibly picture our lives without but just a few years ago were unheard of. I can't wait to see Sophia's expression when she learns of a time before cell phones or better yet cordless phones and computers!

The only down fall to this book is it includes the good and... the bad! As with every family we all have good and bad memories, but do I really what to dig back into the place in my mind where I have buried them? There are many things that I feel I may not be able to write about from my childhood not because I don't want anyone to know but because after suppressing those memories for so many years you forget because you want to forget! But if I write what I remember I guess the bright side is that they can learn what not to do, and ultimately isn't that the point?

Forgiveness

2011-02-08T14:36:00.000-05:00

A little less than a year ago, my church held their annual revival. But before the revival began the Lord gave my Pastor a message about having your heart prepared for revival and if there is bitterness in your heart you can not be properly prepared! I felt that this message was just for me and it was! God always knows what we need and when we need it... we just need to listen to that still small voice, although in my case it wasn't a small voice; it was loud and clear voice. "Jessica I forgave you, You can forgive her!" I heard that over and over!
It began 3 years prior when I was deeply hurt and wounded by someone I loved very much! Someone that I thought could never ever hurt me, but she did! I let bitterness build and build inside me for 3 years too long and it was time to do the right thing! As soon as I left that service I called her and asked her to forgive me for being mad for so long. And the following poem was something that was from my heart, because at the time I did not know how to express what I was going through or feeling. So I am not a writer nor a poet but I had to somehow find the words to express this trial in my life because it had such a great impact on me!

I am ashamed to say
That I have been harboring bitterness deep inside me,
And it just would not let my conscience be.
Because I know that it’s not the Christian way!

I felt wronged and betrayed
By someone I held so near and dear,
But losing her would be my biggest fear.
So knowing what I must do, let not my conscience be swayed.

I must follow Christ’s example.
He was wronged and betrayed more than I, but He still forgave.
He that had no sin, died for us to save.
I must forgive her as well, so that I can be found faithful.

I can not see the future as God can.
Because when this trial first came into my life
All I could see was heart ache and strife,
But now I realize I must follow God’s plan!

God is the Author of my story.
And although I long for the bond we once had,
If I follow Christ’s example it can not be bad,
And to God be the Glory!

Let all bitterness , and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:31,32

As a child I recited this verse probably a thousand times, but as an adult I fully understand its importance in fullness and appreciate it so much more!

Newlywed Game

2011-02-06T22:14:00.000-05:00

Newlywed Game
My sister-in-law posted this on her blog and I thought it would be fun to try with Patrick! He did good I was impressed but some answers were pretty funny!

1. She’s sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen?
Patrick: Sex and the City
Me: Sex and the City since E! is showing all the old ones that I never saw.

2. You’re out to eat, what kind of dressing does she get on her salad?
Patrick: Balsalmic Vinegarette
Me: Balsalmic Vinegarette

3. What’s one food she doesn’t like?
Patrick: Mushrooms
Me: Mushrooms! Gross!

4. You go out to eat, what drink does she order?
Patrick: Water with lemon
Me: Even even answered with lemon, exactly how I order it, word for word! HAHA!

5. What shoe size does she have?
Patrick: 7.5
Me: 7.5, He has bought me shoes, so I know he knew this!

6. What’s her favorite type of sandwich?
Patrick: Honey Ham with Mircle Whip on a Hawaiin sweet roll
Me: I love this sandwich and eat it a lot! Obviously! But I would also say Philly cheesesteak!

7. What would she eat everyday if she could?
Patrick: Same as answer above, See #6
Me: Yes I could eat this everyday and not get tired of it!

8. What is her favorite cereal?
Patrick: Cinnamon Toast Crunch
Me: Sorry babe, I love those but my favorite is Me Lucky Charms!

9. What would she never wear?
Patrick: Thong Bikini
Me: Bikini, but if I wouldn't wear a bikini there is no way I would wear a THONG bikini! Yikes! HAHAHA I give it to him I would NEVER!

10. What is her favorite sports team?
Patrick: Jacksonville Jaguars
Me: I love my Jaguars! One day they will be in the Super Bowl!

11. What is something she does that you wish she wouldn’t do?
Patrick: Not doing dishes
Me: He is right I hate that I get behind some days but he really had a hard time even thinking of that so I have been doing better!

12. What is her heritage?
Patrick: English/ Irish
Me: True, I have been doing more research on this a lot lately!

13. You bake her a cake, what kind of cake?
Patrick: Red Velvet
Me: Vanilla with Vanilla icing! Yum! This was his second choice.

14. Did she play sports in high school?
Patrick: Basketball
Me: Haha! He said this because he remembered I got pushed on my butt by Melissa, but that was just PE. I only actually played softball, because he doesn't consider cheerleading a sport!

15. What could she spend hours doing?
Patrick: Shoe Shopping
Me: He knows me so well!

16. What is the unique talent that she has?
Patrick: No gag reflex
Me: Umm I dunno...

17. What is her type of coffee?
Patrick: The kind without coffee
Me: I love his answer... so funny and he is right that is the best kind! HAHA

Copy & paste this & fill in your own answers with your hubby!

Perfect or Imperfect?

2011-01-19T10:34:00.000-05:00

Most mornings my husband, Patrick, and I wake up about the same time every morning although there are some times where he gets up early and leaves before I even get out of bed, but he always tells me goodbye and kisses me before he leaves!

This morning was one of those mornings where he kissed me goodbye before I got out of bed and Sophia woke up as he was going downstairs so we went downstairs to wave bye-bye to daddy! A little later, as Sophia was eating breakfast and I was cleaning the bathroom, I happened to glance in the mirror, and thought, "Wow, I let Patrick kiss me good-bye looking like this!" Which made me wonder how many women get up before their husbands to look perfect for him, or do you let him see your imperfections???

Quick Crab Stew

2011-01-05T23:06:00.000-05:00

This recipe is from Paula Deen, but it doesn't use a lot of butter and I used Heart Healthy soups from Campbell's so it really isn't that bad. I didn't use the sherry we don't like it, so it is good without it!

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, chopped
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed cream of potato soup
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
1 soup can milk
1 soup can half-and-half
1 pound claw crabmeat, picked free of any broken shells
1/4 cup dry sherry
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter and saute the onion until translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the soups, milk, and half-and-half. Add the crabmeat and bring just to a boil. Add the sherry and salt and pepper, to taste. Serve immediately. Or allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze immediately in plastic microwavable reusable containers with lids.

Top Ten Moments of 2010!

2010-12-31T21:46:00.000-05:00

I originally saw this as a Christmas card idea, but didn't have the time, but I thought it was a good idea to share my 'Top Ten Moments of 2010' so here they are...

1. Sophia's 1st Birthday- It was amazing how fast that year went by, but I enjoyed every minute!

2. Hearing Sophia utter the words, "Mama"- It brought tears to my eyes!

3. Watching my baby girl develop into a beautiful and very active toddler- I love watching her learn new things, from learning how to roll over, then crawl, to walking and now running!

4. My six year Wedding Anniversary with Patrick- We spent our anniversary in Savannah and it was special because it was our first night away from Sophia since bringing her home from the hospital!

5. Being Matron of Honor in my "sister's" wedding- I was so honored when Brooke asked me to be apart of her special day! She has always been there for me so I am glad I could be there for her!

6. Being an Aunt for the first time- I was very happy for my sister-in-law and her husband when they had their baby this year, she was worth the wait!

7. Completing my 1st 5K run- I say first because I would love to keep doing 5k runs. I would have love to have completed under 40 mins but it was my first and I will improve it over time!

8. Having Thanksgiving in our house for the 1st time and having all the family over- It was a little intimidating planning a meal for 11 people but all in all it went well!

9. Going to NYC for my 27th Birthday- I love NYC and it was an amazing surprise getaway and we had a great time together!

10. Eating at Daniel- It was the most amazing food that I have EVER ate! It was an experience eating there! It has changed the way I feel about food! Quality is much better than quantity!

Simple mistake!

2010-12-16T10:31:00.000-05:00

I was at the store yesterday and in a rush, while rushing through the store I grabbed pudding for a dessert I was making and grabbed 'cook and serve' pudding instead of 'instant'! I thought, "Oh well, I can still use it; it will just take a little longer." Well, I cooked the pudding and continued with the recipe, but it did not turn out the same!Let's just say that I had to throw the whole dessert out! I have made this dessert a dozen times and love it, but it is funny that by buying what you think is basically the same thing can change the recipe so much. I don't think I will EVER make that mistake again! I think I should have made time to read the box a little more carefully! haha

Making time for health and running!

2010-11-12T10:26:00.000-05:00

I have had enough of extra weight, and the sad thing is I can't blame it on pregnancy because after Sophia was born I weighed less than before I was pregnant! So I have decided to make time to be healthy, so that I can be a positive example for Sophia and I'm sure Patrick won't mind either! ;) Instead of waiting until the New Year to be healthy, like most people, I am doing it now.
I started Wednesday really focusing on running and found a race that will be my first 5K race and that is my goal right now! So I have a little more than a month to be ready. I know that is quick but this first race is just to complete it, not about how quick I finish! I am happy to report though that I did shave 3 whole minutes off my mile today! I was pretty excited about that. Also realized that I need better shoes because the tips of my toes were rubbing the inside of my shoe and they felt tingly! Well, marking my calendar for Dec. 18th for my first 5K! It is fuuny cool that this is my first because I didn't know about this race, but this race is named for Ryan Kishbaugh the son of a doctor I worked with in Rehab Spinal Cord and he wrote a book before he died. The book is titled, Run Because You Can! Good thought!

First time back!

2010-11-01T16:33:00.000-04:00

Maybe this time I can MAKE TIME to write about a few things that really matter to me! My last blog post was in Jan of 09 and titled Answered prayer... Well little did I know that I was pregnant with my little Sophia at the time, who truly is an answer to prayer! Now she is almost 13 months old, my how time flies! I don't know how many times I heard "Enjoy every minute because it will go by fast" since becoming a new parent! I hate to admit that I have caught myself saying, "I can't wait until..." I really need to learn to savor the present instead wishing for the future! And so let the journey of "making time" begin... "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is God's gift, that's why we call it the present!" Help me to really be thankful for each and everyday!

Answered prayers

2009-01-14T21:05:00.000-05:00

I guess it has been awhile... I have been going through a lot of personal things this past year that are not as easy for me to talk about. One of the most difficult times of this past year was in August just before my birthday. When Patrick and I found out that we miscarried during our first pregnancy. I never really knew how I would deal with something like this until it actually happened, but the Lord is gracious and helped us stay positive through that time, although it was difficult.

I have since learned that I have hypothyroidism which may or may not have caused the miscarriage. It is difficult to know exactly when because the symptoms are nearly the same as pregnany (tired, hungry, gaining weight, hair loss, always cold). So I have started taking Synthroid now, which I will have to take everyday and have frequent blood work to check those levels. I had my first check-up since beginning the medication and my levels are already under control. The Lord does answer prayer not always right away and maybe not the answer we want, but He does answer prayer!

I now embark upon a new year, which is starting with so many new changes for me. Last year while working at the hospital I really became discouraged about working every other weekend, which as a nurse is something at one point in your career have to do if you work at the hospital. I began to pray about this situation more and more. As it became apparent that nothing could be worked out at where I was, the Lord opened a new option at the end of the year when I almost thought that there was no other option. The Lord answered my prayer in a way I was not expecting, because I loved where I worked and really didn't want to leave. But I am so happy now that I can be at church every Sunday morning/evening and Wednesday evening now. Patrick is also happier now that we can get up in the morning together and I am home when he comes home in the evening and not to mention we have every weekend now! So I am thankful for all these new changes so far this new year!

I will continue to pray for friends and family that still are going through difficult circumstances that only the Lord can bless and comfort in those areas and pray for a happy new year for all!

It's been awhile....

2008-09-16T17:50:00.000-04:00

Well, It has definitely been awhile since I last blogged about anything recently. I was caught up in things that I guess I was trying to hard to make happen myself, instead of relying on God, and HIS timing. (another life lesson learned). Which reminds me of another children's book I read recently, The Giving Tree.

It is amazing the things you can learn from reading children's book. What I have taken from this sweet little book is that the little boy is like so many young people in this generation, who have the mentality that they everything should be given to them and all they do is take and take. If they could only learn to be more like the giving tree in this story! They would maybe learn to be content with what they have and learn that giving is so much better then receiving. Anyway, I think more adults should reread (and yes that is a word) old children's books and try to dig a little deeper... I challenge you!

Do me a favor...

2008-06-12T15:02:00.000-04:00

And all other nurses for that matter, and don't make sexual or rude comments to your nurse! She is there to make you more comfortable in a time that you are not at your best, and to see that you get better. I don't understand why some men feel like they can say whatever they want, which puts your nurse in an awkward situation. Most people in general lack tactfulness, but this crosses the line. It is just plain inappropriate. Next time you or a family member is in the hospital try to be respectful of the people caring for you, because I know I treat all of my patient's as though they were my family coming into the hospital, can't you at least treat this caring nurse with some respect!

The Last Lecture

2008-05-30T11:13:00.000-04:00

On vacation to Vegas, I had this book that I borrowed from my grandma, The Last Lecture. I thought I will bring it along and read a little bit here and there when I get the chance, but from the moment I read the first page, I literally could not put this book down. You are hooked to this man’s story, and want to read more.

It was one of the few times that I finished a book in one day. Most people probably think that it is more of a sad story , because he is a man living his last days with pancreatic cancer. As you read through you realize that it is a sad story, but you feel inspired by him, because he is so upbeat and optimistic. You can’t help but feel happy for him that he accomplished his childhood dreams and inspired to do the same. When you read something really great, your first instinct is to share it with someone. So I did.

I told Patrick that he needed to read it and He did. He also could not put it down and read it within a couple of hours. It is funny, because as I read this book, Randy Pausch reminded me of Patrick and that is why I thought Patrick would enjoy the book. When Patrick completed the book, he talked about some of his childhood dreams, which were similar to the author’s dreams. But we also talked about our hopes and dreams for our family.

I was really blown away with Randy Pausch’s philosophy regarding family and things. An example of this from his book was when his wife had hit one car that was parked in the driveway with the other car when she was backing out of the garage, and she was dreading telling him. So she planned a dinner that she knew was his favorite. As they were eating this great meal, she could not hold back any longer, she told him what had happened and to her surprise he said that’s okay let’s finish our dinner, then she said after dinner I will call around and get an estimate to get them fixed. And again to her surprise, he said that if they are working and running why fix them. To fix them would only be for cosmetic reasons, and that is how he was raised.

Randy says in the book, that his parents only bought them new clothes if the ones they had no longer fit. They were not cheap people. They just did not believe in excess, which is a good lesson in itself. His parents were selfless people and taught him this lesson as well as many more. That is why he wanted to write this book in the first place, to teach his children the life lessons he learned.

He has his own website and blog, where he keeps everyone up-to-date about his health and his family here. You can also watch his last lecture on you tube.

Nurses week!

2008-05-09T20:24:00.000-04:00

This past Tuesday was Nurse's Day, so this week at the hospital I work is called Nurses' week. It is nice to finally feel appreciated for the work that is done. This year's gift was a copy of Chicken Soup for the Nurse's Soul, which contains some great stories. Even if you are not a nurse, you will still enjoy the stories and have a better understanding of what nurses go through in one shift or over a couple of days. Today was the last day and finished it with a pot luck lunch, which is pointless for nurses, only because we never can all sit down at once and eat obviously someone has to be available for the patients and we rarely have longer than 15 minutes for lunch, and today was no different. On a busy Friday, we will probably have 3 discharges. Today, we had 6! But it is so good to see people get better and able to function at home safely. Unfortunately, there are times when we get an admission too quickly from surgery that is not rehab appropriate and things do not get better and they return to an ICU or unit where they can be monitored more closely and sadly do not return. Today was one of those days where we received bad news about a patient that we had. I hated to hear that he passed away yesterday. It just really burdened my heart, because this guy was so positive and never complained about his condition. He was also very young actually younger than my mom, and before coming to the hospital months ago, you would have thought this man has everything. In nursing school, I remember the instructors saying don't get attached but with some patients you just can't help getting attached, and I hope that never changes!

One of my favorite childhood books

2008-04-14T16:13:00.000-04:00

An excerpt from A light in the Attic: Zebra Question

I asked the Zebra,

Are you black with white stripes?

Or white with black stripes?

And the Zebra asked me,

Are you good with bad habits?

Or are you bad with good habits?

Are you noisy with quiet times?

Or are you quiet with noisy times?

Are you happy with some sad days?

Or are you sad with some happy days?

Are you neat with sloppy ways?

Or are you sloppy with some neat ways?

And on and on and on and on

And on and on he went.

I'll never ask a zebra

About stripes

Again.

Hanging in there...

2008-03-27T17:51:00.000-04:00

I am very thankful to God, that what has been burdening my heart every day since March 19th seems to be an answered prayer. I say seems because I do not know for certain she is honest with me, but I want to believe it is the truth and from what I can tell it seems to be the truth. I know that this is not something that can be 'fixed' over night. I know that this matter will continue to need prayer because it will be a constant battle every day and I pray that she will continue to make the right decision.

Prayer is needed.

2008-03-19T22:43:00.000-04:00

For my christian family out there, my family and I currently need prayer to help with some difficult times. We are dealing with something that I thought I would never have to face. I do not particularly want to speak about it or say what it is, but the Lord knows what our needs are and all I ask is that as you read this blog, you will take a moment out of your day to say a prayer for me and my family, and that God will give me wisdom and guidance in this difficult situation.

How we met

2008-02-26T20:41:00.000-05:00

Patrick and I met in July of 2000, it was our friend's birthday. Patrick had just moved back to a town that he had moved away from as a child. A few years prior, I had moved to this town of Fayetteville and was attending the school that he attended as a child, College Lakes Christian Academy. While at this school, I was making friends with his childhood friends that he had left behind, and in July of 2000 our worlds would collide. Although we did not know it at the time, we would never be the same. This mutual friend went to a Japanese restaurant for her birthday and I remember introducing myself to him, but he was the quite type and did not say much. After dinner, they took a picture of the whole group. I love this picture, because not many couples have a picture from the day that they first saw each other. It would take us another year and a half to start dating. Of course, there was the occasional flirtatious glare or chat, but at the time we both were unavailable so we were strictly friends. Patrick graduated and left for basic training in the US Army, during this time we started writing letters to each other, as friends. When Patrick returned home, he then started college at North Carolina State University and I still had another year left at College Lakes to finish high school. Patrick and his girlfriend had already gone their separate ways but me and my boyfriend of three years were in the process of going our separte ways. So my senior year was a huge emotional roller coaster for me. My friends were mad at me for breaking up with what they thought was a great guy for a guy that they thought would just be a fling, that would eventually be flung! Haha Boy, were they wrong. Not only friends but family too. My mom and grandmother especially they hated the fact of me dumping what they thought would be the perfect son-in-law, because he was student government president, starter on the football team, writer for the local newspaper, and in college to become a lawyer. But all these things did not matter to me. I was starting to find more meaningful things in Patrick. One of the more important characteristics, Patrick is a Christian and believes the same things I believe. Over Christmas break (when Patrick came home from college), our friendship developed into something more. And from then on, we were planning ways to see each other more and more. Which leads me to our first kiss, it was after we had finished watching Autumn in New York, but I will leave all the juicy details to your imagination. Wink, wink! I often joke, because this same night I had made a home-made apple pie for home economics class. So I guess food is the way to a man's heart. And the rest is history. We now have been married 3 almost 4 years. We are truly happily married and still remain best friends and love spending every day together, and are looking forward to the building of our family in the future. Just a note the picture is from our honeymoon.

Back on...finally!

2008-02-11T21:50:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I have been able to watch my favorite show, Notes from the Underbelly. Two weeks ago, the state of the union address by the President was on, then last week some special was on. So, I am so happy to be watching... Right now! Tonight is the best episode so far. They (Lauren and Andrew) finally had their baby! If you have not been watching, the first episode is about a couple trying to get pregnant and to their surprise it happens on the first try. And the first season has been about big milestones during their pregnancy. Watching the show really excites me about being pregnant. But I know that time will come when it is time. Anyway, it is a very funny, sweet show. While watching Notes from the Underbelly, I saw an commercial for Here Come the Newly Weds which also looks pretty funny.

Another day in the Valley...

2008-02-04T21:53:00.000-05:00

I say the Valley, because I work at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and today was a long day. My day usually starts around 4:50 am arrive at work 5:50 am then from 6:00-6:30 listen to report from the night shift then 6:30-7:00 I check my patient's chart looking at most recent orders and progress notes from night shift to see if anything happened over night that I didn't get in report and reading the patient's medical history and last vital signs. Then on days when I work on the floor, like today (some days I work as team nurse then my role is different), I go to each patient's room to check on them and get vital signs and then since I work in a spinal cord rehad unit I have to get all my patients washed, dressed, and fed before their therapy at 9:00 am. So between 7:00 and 9:00 I am running between rooms like crazy, all this and only one or two patients can actually stand. I am moving men and women who are two times my weight. After I get my patients to therapy, hopefully on time, then I can help with doctors orders such as starting IV lines, changing dressings, catherize if needed, because not all patients with a spinal cord injury can empty their bladder, and take out staples like today, because we get a lot of patients that have had back surgery, CABG surgery, and knee amputions. I usually may get 15-20 minutes lunch then I help feed patients that can't feed themselves and tiolet these patients before they head back to therapy again. If we get any admissions these patients usually come around 2:00 pm which is when evening shift comes in, but since I work 12 hour shifts I don't leave until 6:30 pm. Today I was the lucky nurse that had 2 admissions and 5 patients to care for, which is A LOT of paperwork (2 head to toe assessment that are completely written out and complete medical history as well as writing out the medications each patients are on for the doctor). First admission came at 2:00 pm and I finished that one around 3:00 so I then took care of my 5 patients putting the ones that were finished with therapy back into bed and getting them comfortable. Then my next admission of course comes at 5:40 pm just 20 minutes away from giving the nurse who comes in behind me, report. So I start this one too, working very quickly to pass the time, I pretty much finish right at 6:30 pm and quickly update the nurse and clock-out, only to continue to worry about all my patients and wonder if I charted everything and did I complete my patient's FIM scores ( functional improvement measurement used by rehab units to get paid by insurance companies)? Did I write my progress note (one has to be written every shift)? A nurse's day never ends, even at home you hope your patients are doing well and hope that you remember to tell the on-coming nurse everything that was important and what didn't get done. A long post but many ask what I do so this is a small portion.

First Time! From Dec07

2007-12-05T22:57:00.000-05:00

Just a note. I found this old post it was my first post but I thought I had lost it, because the internet went down after typing it and I didn't realize it saved it until today. Still think it is worth posting. This is obviously my first time posting a blog and not sure what to post, so I will start with what is most important to me, God, church, and Patrick. Tonight at church we had a message about the prudent husband or wife and how you can go to places i.e. church, school, college, and even oline dating services but none can guarantee a prudent mate, that can only come from the Lord. So I just wanted to express my thankfulness to God that He blessed me with such a wonderful man. Everyday at work, I hear my peers talk bad about their spouse and I do not know the situation completely, but I know that I have never nor would I ever say such things of Patrick. I my heart breaks that these women do not have this bond with their husbands, someone that is their best friend and leader of the home. It is sad to me that many women treat their husbands as another child in the home