*Um. no one told me I had two "day 12"s. So, if you are an RSS feed person, I'm sure you're drowning in my updates. I had to fix it, friends... can't be addin' a day to the balance.
I would also like to note the eerie theme of the number 30 in my life lately. Its just... every. where.
What am I to learn from it?
Monday, August 31, 2009
30 to 30: Day 23, "Big Money, Big Money"
Today is my day to return to reality... and Tennessee.
FIRST, I go through Vegas, baby! :)
Today's challenge- try the slots or something. I assume they'll be some option for such adventures in the airport, right?
If I win- what will I buy?
FIRST, I go through Vegas, baby! :)
Today's challenge- try the slots or something. I assume they'll be some option for such adventures in the airport, right?
If I win- what will I buy?
Sunday, August 30, 2009
30 to 30: Day 22, "Flying Fish"
Today was such a gorgeous day! We rode a ferry across the Puget Sound and wandered around Seattle. Stuart came and met the four of us for lunch at a great French bistro near Pike Place. The weather was SO beautiful...70 degrees and sunny. ahhhhh.
Here's the only bummer.
I didn't have the guts to catch the fish. You know? The dudes in the Market that toss huge fish around. I asked if I could try to catch it and he said, "sure- just go over there and I'll throw it to you." I made the mistake of saying, "I may not catch it but it will be fun to try" and he said, "then I will not throw it." Go figure.
So, today may be a wash. Its OK, though. I've covered enough ground to be alright with a day off.
Things I have gotten to see:
- The high school and house from "10 Things I hate About You"!!!!
- The pier from my favorite season of Real World!
- Mars Hill Graduate School
- A Free People store
- Gorgeous weather
- Fun friends
- Mt. Ranier (yes, I know I listed that after Real World... and no, I don't feel bad.
- The city of Seattle being SO gorgeous all lit up from the air
What a great trip! Time to head back to reality. So worth it!
(There's a big week coming up! A racquetball lesson, a pro photo shoot, etc. The birthday is approaching, friends. Can you dig it?) xo.
Here's the only bummer.
I didn't have the guts to catch the fish. You know? The dudes in the Market that toss huge fish around. I asked if I could try to catch it and he said, "sure- just go over there and I'll throw it to you." I made the mistake of saying, "I may not catch it but it will be fun to try" and he said, "then I will not throw it." Go figure.
So, today may be a wash. Its OK, though. I've covered enough ground to be alright with a day off.
Things I have gotten to see:
- The high school and house from "10 Things I hate About You"!!!!
- The pier from my favorite season of Real World!
- Mars Hill Graduate School
- A Free People store
- Gorgeous weather
- Fun friends
- Mt. Ranier (yes, I know I listed that after Real World... and no, I don't feel bad.
- The city of Seattle being SO gorgeous all lit up from the air
What a great trip! Time to head back to reality. So worth it!
(There's a big week coming up! A racquetball lesson, a pro photo shoot, etc. The birthday is approaching, friends. Can you dig it?) xo.
30 to 30: Day 21, "Challenge of a Lifetime"
Seriously.
I ate cheese.
I'm not kidding.
I have hated cheese my entire (save the first 8 months) life. As I approach my 30th year, it occurs to me that, perhaps, my taste buds have changed and I've been too busy fixating on my tradition of dairy hatred to notice. Julie, Becca, Emily and I went to this adorable bistro for a late lunch with Britney (not spears) and I sampled the cheese plate as an act of overwhelming bravery.
SO... I did it.
And I almost barfed.
I AM A LIFETIME CHEESE HATER!! :)
pictures to come, of course.
I ate cheese.
I'm not kidding.
I have hated cheese my entire (save the first 8 months) life. As I approach my 30th year, it occurs to me that, perhaps, my taste buds have changed and I've been too busy fixating on my tradition of dairy hatred to notice. Julie, Becca, Emily and I went to this adorable bistro for a late lunch with Britney (not spears) and I sampled the cheese plate as an act of overwhelming bravery.
SO... I did it.
And I almost barfed.
I AM A LIFETIME CHEESE HATER!! :)
pictures to come, of course.
30 to 30: Day 20, "Hit that Note"
Its hard to find time to blog when you're LOVING life in Seattle, y'all!
Here's the gist of Friday's challenge. Enjoy, for the first time, some live band karaoke! You may remember that I sang "Son of a Preacher Man" a few months back for my first karaoke experience. Well, friends, it is my go-to. Emily, Becca and I wandered into a lovely establishment called "the Swiss". It was one heckuva people watching experience. Amazing.
Bottom line: I trotted right up to the stage and belted out the tunes as if my band were backing me. It was funny. I did not to well, but I sure put my heart into it. :)
Another mission accomplished.
Here's the gist of Friday's challenge. Enjoy, for the first time, some live band karaoke! You may remember that I sang "Son of a Preacher Man" a few months back for my first karaoke experience. Well, friends, it is my go-to. Emily, Becca and I wandered into a lovely establishment called "the Swiss". It was one heckuva people watching experience. Amazing.
Bottom line: I trotted right up to the stage and belted out the tunes as if my band were backing me. It was funny. I did not to well, but I sure put my heart into it. :)
Another mission accomplished.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
30 to 30: Day 19, "Reconnect"
Today's goal (prior to hopping a flight westward to Seattle/Tacoma to see Becca, Julie and Emily!! eeeeeeee!) is to make a long overdue call to an old friend. Its time. The waiting, awkwardness, guilt etc. must not win. Today I will call and we will just see what happens.
"Make new friends, but keep the old.... one is silver and the others gold"
(thanks, Mom, for being my "Brownie" leader.)
UPDATE:
mission accomplished! She was so sweet to me in spite of my bad communication over the last year. Also, here's me in the Phoenix airport during my layover. Its 109 degrees at sunset. WHOA.
"Make new friends, but keep the old.... one is silver and the others gold"
(thanks, Mom, for being my "Brownie" leader.)
UPDATE:
mission accomplished! She was so sweet to me in spite of my bad communication over the last year. Also, here's me in the Phoenix airport during my layover. Its 109 degrees at sunset. WHOA.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
30 to 30: Day 18, "Share the Road"
If you could see/smell me right now, you would know I've already (half) accomplished my goal for today. I have LONG wanted to bite the bullet and bike commute to work. I just never made myself.
Today I did!
It only took about 25 minutes and I almost enjoyed it! One revelation: there are like... so many hills.
So, I'm sweating at work.
I'm SO green and lessening my carbon footprint.
I'm feeling quite accomplished.
I'm sweating at work and it WON'T STOP.
:)
Today I did!
It only took about 25 minutes and I almost enjoyed it! One revelation: there are like... so many hills.
So, I'm sweating at work.
I'm SO green and lessening my carbon footprint.
I'm feeling quite accomplished.
I'm sweating at work and it WON'T STOP.
:)
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
30 to 30: Day 17, "By Number...?"
Today I shall paint.
I have a painting class, to be exact! I shall learn to harness my creativity at roughly 6:30p central.
Is it strange if I've always loved wearing a smock and making a mess of paint?? Heck, I even watched hours of Bob Ross on PBS as a kid. That and the Frugal Gourmet- Kristin, can I get an "amen"??
Here's to unearthing a creative streak and making a lovely creation! :)
UPDATE:
Ok, my public, I'll give you what you want! hahhaha (qualifier: this was all outlined on a canvas and I was told what colors to paint. It is 75% done with the layers. It will be finished next week.)
I have a painting class, to be exact! I shall learn to harness my creativity at roughly 6:30p central.
Is it strange if I've always loved wearing a smock and making a mess of paint?? Heck, I even watched hours of Bob Ross on PBS as a kid. That and the Frugal Gourmet- Kristin, can I get an "amen"??
Here's to unearthing a creative streak and making a lovely creation! :)
UPDATE:
Ok, my public, I'll give you what you want! hahhaha (qualifier: this was all outlined on a canvas and I was told what colors to paint. It is 75% done with the layers. It will be finished next week.)
Monday, August 24, 2009
30 to 30: Day 16, "Story time!"
Today I am reading through the Jesus Storybook Bible again.
Cuz:
1. I love it.
2. I understand it.
3. I love it.
A good reminder and what not. :)
Cuz:
1. I love it.
2. I understand it.
3. I love it.
A good reminder and what not. :)
30 to 30: Day 15, "Devotion"
There may not exist a larger disparity between the events of Saturday and Sunday, my beloved blog community.
On Saturday, I tried to muster the necessary nerve to approach a man outta no where. Sunday, I spend the day in the presence of men who have made vows of lifetime solitude and contemplation.
I took it to Kentucky for the day, y'all.
Gethsemane, to be exact.
In the middle of no where, on a hill, exists what is, to most, a complete intrigue... a monastery! It is full of monks in robes. They are lovely. Such beautiful singing voices, beautiful devotion and warm faces. I only saw one man speak the whole day. There were signs everywhere reminding the visitors that it is a monastic area and that there must be no speaking.
It was a welcome change of pace. A welcome day of (mostly) silence. Hey, a girl has to talk to her sister, OK? A lot of deep relaxation concentrated into only 8 or 9 hours.
I think, as I headed northeast, I anticipated something mystical to take place. Really, it was a total lack of mysticism. It was deeply peaceful there. It was also a time of assessment for me. Sure, I enjoyed participating in a few services (vespers was my favorite- beautiful. I think incense gives me a headache, by the by), but it was more about forcing myself out of the normal routine to get a little quality time to think, pray and relax.
I journaled. It is an art I have long since abandoned in favor of the blog-ular alternative. I read. I sat and warmed myself in the sun. Basked, really. (Sidenote: It was actually *chilly* yesterday! IN AUGUST!) I read some more. I quietly prayed and waited. I just plain soaked up the luxury of joining in to a community of the devoted. It was lovely.
(Here's where I spent my time reading)
BUT.
The silence is for the birds. I have been social since conception. Ask Kristin. I probably talked her ear off in utero. Lets be real... the silent life will never be for me. It made me really sleepy.
OH- on the way home, I saw a bear in a horse trailer.
On Saturday, I tried to muster the necessary nerve to approach a man outta no where. Sunday, I spend the day in the presence of men who have made vows of lifetime solitude and contemplation.
I took it to Kentucky for the day, y'all.
Gethsemane, to be exact.
In the middle of no where, on a hill, exists what is, to most, a complete intrigue... a monastery! It is full of monks in robes. They are lovely. Such beautiful singing voices, beautiful devotion and warm faces. I only saw one man speak the whole day. There were signs everywhere reminding the visitors that it is a monastic area and that there must be no speaking.
It was a welcome change of pace. A welcome day of (mostly) silence. Hey, a girl has to talk to her sister, OK? A lot of deep relaxation concentrated into only 8 or 9 hours.
I think, as I headed northeast, I anticipated something mystical to take place. Really, it was a total lack of mysticism. It was deeply peaceful there. It was also a time of assessment for me. Sure, I enjoyed participating in a few services (vespers was my favorite- beautiful. I think incense gives me a headache, by the by), but it was more about forcing myself out of the normal routine to get a little quality time to think, pray and relax.
I journaled. It is an art I have long since abandoned in favor of the blog-ular alternative. I read. I sat and warmed myself in the sun. Basked, really. (Sidenote: It was actually *chilly* yesterday! IN AUGUST!) I read some more. I quietly prayed and waited. I just plain soaked up the luxury of joining in to a community of the devoted. It was lovely.
(Here's where I spent my time reading)
(Here's my view- what a wall!)
(side view of the retreat area/church)
(straight back is the church. The sign in bottom left says not to talk)
(A happy, tired Kelley)
(a Kentucky crescent moon I followed home)
BUT.
The silence is for the birds. I have been social since conception. Ask Kristin. I probably talked her ear off in utero. Lets be real... the silent life will never be for me. It made me really sleepy.
OH- on the way home, I saw a bear in a horse trailer.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
30 to 30: Day 14, "How YOU doin?"
Yesterday's singular goal was to muster the nerve to initiate a conversation with a guy in a social setting. A stranger. A guy in a bar. ME.
Item I learned:
I AM BAD AT IT.
In fact, Chelsea even mentioned how surprised she was at my ability to have some game.
There we were. Seven girls huddled around watching me take the 32 steps over to an attractive gentlemen with the goal of successfully starting a convo and being done with the challenge. I froze. I couldn't do it. HOW DO guys do this all the time? Phew.
Bottom line: The challenge was completed. I ultimately had a conversation with two guys last night. I did not woo them, per se, but I sure did it.
and... I have a total appreciation for men. At least the kind of man I'm looking for. :)
Item I learned:
I AM BAD AT IT.
In fact, Chelsea even mentioned how surprised she was at my ability to have some game.
There we were. Seven girls huddled around watching me take the 32 steps over to an attractive gentlemen with the goal of successfully starting a convo and being done with the challenge. I froze. I couldn't do it. HOW DO guys do this all the time? Phew.
Bottom line: The challenge was completed. I ultimately had a conversation with two guys last night. I did not woo them, per se, but I sure did it.
and... I have a total appreciation for men. At least the kind of man I'm looking for. :)
Friday, August 21, 2009
30 to 30: Day 13, "Serve"
My goal today is to be a part of an initiative of the Salvation Army. There's a soup kitchen under a bridge every Friday evening and tonight- it will include me! There's a whole group of folks that gather and meets some really basic needs of folks right here in our city- often forgotten.
Here's to friday, service, Jason and Conner coming to town with baby Ruby Jane and SLEEPING IN tomorrow!
UPDATE:
The Salvation Army doesn't need me! They're all full on volunteers. Guess I will keep my eyes peeled for ways to serve people. May I help you somehow? :)
Here's to friday, service, Jason and Conner coming to town with baby Ruby Jane and SLEEPING IN tomorrow!
UPDATE:
The Salvation Army doesn't need me! They're all full on volunteers. Guess I will keep my eyes peeled for ways to serve people. May I help you somehow? :)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
30 to 30: Day 12, "Culture"
Hi.
Its amazing what a difference sleep makes.
So, today is going to be a great day! I have work, after-work jaunt to a place that makes jeans (SO cool!), B-day celebraysh of Gregory, Stope and Mikael, and a porch hang with some old friends.
Somewhere in there, I am going to visit the Frist and get all cultured and what-not. The Frist is our city's art museum. It really is amazing and I go every couple of months. What I have not done is hop in just to get a gander at the latest exhibit and spend a quick chunk of time enjoying the city by way of awesome opportunities such as this.
Yes. Today is going to be good indeed.
UPDATE:
Another life lesson learned...I can't do everything. Time ran out. I was exhausted. TOO many things for one night. Frist got the boot. Perhaps I'll make it a weekend treat just cuz. :)
Its amazing what a difference sleep makes.
So, today is going to be a great day! I have work, after-work jaunt to a place that makes jeans (SO cool!), B-day celebraysh of Gregory, Stope and Mikael, and a porch hang with some old friends.
Somewhere in there, I am going to visit the Frist and get all cultured and what-not. The Frist is our city's art museum. It really is amazing and I go every couple of months. What I have not done is hop in just to get a gander at the latest exhibit and spend a quick chunk of time enjoying the city by way of awesome opportunities such as this.
Yes. Today is going to be good indeed.
UPDATE:
Another life lesson learned...I can't do everything. Time ran out. I was exhausted. TOO many things for one night. Frist got the boot. Perhaps I'll make it a weekend treat just cuz. :)
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
30 to 30: Day 11, "Wisdom"
I'm just going to be real with you. We're friends, right?
I have had a really stressful couple of days. The kind of day that keeps the unforgiving ball of anxiety churning in my intestines. No need to go in to the details of why- I just say that to let you know I'm grateful. WHAT? Did I just say that? Yes... and I very nearly mean it.
I'm grateful that the details of today worked out just like they did. For starters, how is one supposed to appreciate the really great days if there aren't crappy days like today to allow them to shine? Secondly, my goal for the day was to spend some quality time with an older person. The funny thing is I thought I would be visiting a nursing home. Little did I know that "older" would really mean "older than me". I had a planned meeting after work with a new friend and what unfolded was nothing shy of... wait for it... meant to be. I was supposed to be there, talking to that friend and *that* moment. Herb is the new community pastor at City Church and he bestowed some much needed reminders upon me. So basic. So true. It had me thinking (or perhaps "ah-ha"ing) what huge wisdom I was being handed. Life is no more about my age than it is about my address. It plays a role, but not who I am. I am loved. Like... down deep. Perfectly.
What more could I need? Certainly not approval from people who (ultimately) don't matter. I'm not trying to be mean- just sharing the JOY that flooded over me when I had a small glimpse of not trying to be perfect and so darned liked all the time.
So, you know what? I like you... but its OK if you don't like me. So there.
ALSO... mom, dad and kris will appreciate this more because of the memories of me in a closet rocking (and more recently in a pantry with my bike helmet fastened)... I am intentionally sitting on my porch during a thunderstorm. BOOYAH. Thunder- come and get me. Wind- good luck. Lightening.... ok... you're still lightening. I got no beef.
peace.
I have had a really stressful couple of days. The kind of day that keeps the unforgiving ball of anxiety churning in my intestines. No need to go in to the details of why- I just say that to let you know I'm grateful. WHAT? Did I just say that? Yes... and I very nearly mean it.
I'm grateful that the details of today worked out just like they did. For starters, how is one supposed to appreciate the really great days if there aren't crappy days like today to allow them to shine? Secondly, my goal for the day was to spend some quality time with an older person. The funny thing is I thought I would be visiting a nursing home. Little did I know that "older" would really mean "older than me". I had a planned meeting after work with a new friend and what unfolded was nothing shy of... wait for it... meant to be. I was supposed to be there, talking to that friend and *that* moment. Herb is the new community pastor at City Church and he bestowed some much needed reminders upon me. So basic. So true. It had me thinking (or perhaps "ah-ha"ing) what huge wisdom I was being handed. Life is no more about my age than it is about my address. It plays a role, but not who I am. I am loved. Like... down deep. Perfectly.
What more could I need? Certainly not approval from people who (ultimately) don't matter. I'm not trying to be mean- just sharing the JOY that flooded over me when I had a small glimpse of not trying to be perfect and so darned liked all the time.
So, you know what? I like you... but its OK if you don't like me. So there.
ALSO... mom, dad and kris will appreciate this more because of the memories of me in a closet rocking (and more recently in a pantry with my bike helmet fastened)... I am intentionally sitting on my porch during a thunderstorm. BOOYAH. Thunder- come and get me. Wind- good luck. Lightening.... ok... you're still lightening. I got no beef.
peace.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
30 to 30: Day 10, "Gone to Market"
I did it!
I went to see the Farmers Market and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Delaney tells me it is SO wonderful on the weekends (if for no other reason than the Amish folks who come with their deelish treats!) Nevertheless, today was lovely and I plan to go back!
Margie graciously sold me some peaches and sweet potatoes. She also posed for a snapshot of her lovely goods. I'll be posting that (along with Chicago pics) just as soon as the ole camera gets downloaded.
Ten days in... and LOVING it! I've even managed to inspire adventure in some friends. Is there anything better?!
UPDATE: Here's Margie. What a gal! That produce was seeeerious!
I went to see the Farmers Market and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Delaney tells me it is SO wonderful on the weekends (if for no other reason than the Amish folks who come with their deelish treats!) Nevertheless, today was lovely and I plan to go back!
Margie graciously sold me some peaches and sweet potatoes. She also posed for a snapshot of her lovely goods. I'll be posting that (along with Chicago pics) just as soon as the ole camera gets downloaded.
Ten days in... and LOVING it! I've even managed to inspire adventure in some friends. Is there anything better?!
UPDATE: Here's Margie. What a gal! That produce was seeeerious!
Monday, August 17, 2009
30 to 30: Day 9, "Baby Love""
I'm back home in Nash and today's goal is to get in some quality time with a baby. James will be that baby... well... at least a toddler! :) I'm staying with Coco and baby james tonight- maybe I can keep him awake after his bedtime. We'll see how that goes.
Perspective will come by way of hanging with a person just starting their time on earth and then, later in this adventure, spend some time with a person nearing the end of their journey.
I suspect I will gain some wisdom.
Or at least some play time!
Perspective will come by way of hanging with a person just starting their time on earth and then, later in this adventure, spend some time with a person nearing the end of their journey.
I suspect I will gain some wisdom.
Or at least some play time!
30 to 30: Day 8, "Wild Ones""
Chicago is enchanting!
Not only did I bash around the town loving life, seeing sights and enjoying friends but I also got to go see Josh at the Brookfield Zoo!!
**Sidenote: I wish you all had a Josh. He's the best. I think I have had exactly three friends for so long- Josh entered my world in Honduras in 1995. What an adventure! Fifteen years later, we're still thick as thieves! (A phrase I love but don't understand). LOVE HIM.**
So- Chicago. The Zoo. WHOA! So amazing! Its not enough that Josh is the consummate host, expert on fun in the windy city AND a great friend, but... he is also a monkey whisperer. He hangs with orangutans, y'all! It was beyond incredible to get some quality time with Maggie (one of the oldest orangutans in the US who, incidentally, has had an "extreme makeover" and lost over 100 lbs after being treated for a thyroid condish!), Schnitz, Pepper and the others. I also got to see some VIP behind the scenes animal stuff! What a lucky girl I am! (Somewhere my animal loving mother is soooo jealous). hehe.
My goal was to play with an orangutan and.. I DID! I even got to feed them Kool-Aid. :)
Photos to follow!
UPDATE: Here are some pics of the weekend!
Josh with Maggie
Maggie (note she's holding out her finger to snuggle with me- duh)
Apes- so so strong!
Christian and Me at Kristin's old brown line stop in Lincoln Park
Emily and Me hitting downtown
Navy Pier for the "Air and Water Show"
Standard Chitown pic (sign is for mom who LOVES Steely Dan!)
Joshy and Me
Saturday, August 15, 2009
30 to 30: Day 7, "Table for One""
Today is the day that I suck it up, walk into a fine restaurant and ask for a table for one, thankyouverymuch. It does sort of feel like cheating as I am doing this in Chicago- the coolest "who cares what you're doing- its awesome" city ever. :)
Nevertheless, I'll be helping myself to a lovely meal for one later.
There will be a story.
There always is.
UPDATE:
The opportunity to have dinner with Josh presented itself and not even my "30 days of goals" oriented self could pass that up! I'm fairly sure that conversation had over steak salad at Las Palmas is one we'll remember for a long time. Pretty happy about it. :)
Eating solo will have to wait for another day. And my sparkle shirt.
Nevertheless, I'll be helping myself to a lovely meal for one later.
There will be a story.
There always is.
UPDATE:
The opportunity to have dinner with Josh presented itself and not even my "30 days of goals" oriented self could pass that up! I'm fairly sure that conversation had over steak salad at Las Palmas is one we'll remember for a long time. Pretty happy about it. :)
Eating solo will have to wait for another day. And my sparkle shirt.
30 to 30: Day 6, "Eat Pray.. Read?""
So here I am in the oh-so-fabulous Chicago and my goal (yes... this is a day late) for yesterday was to finish "Eat Pray Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert. I am completely enthralled by this book that I had such a bias against because of the limited exposure I had to the author. Well, fascinating as it may be, I became far too distracted by the splendor of this city! Not enough time for plowing through the final.. oh... 300 pages. SO, this will be more of an on-going goal. Little here.. little there.
I did get a chunk of reading in on the 1.5 hour plane ride though. No- wait.... that's right. I was asleep for one hour and 20 minutes of that.
I did get a chunk of reading in on the 1.5 hour plane ride though. No- wait.... that's right. I was asleep for one hour and 20 minutes of that.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
30 to 30: Day 5, "Fascination... by way of Cakes"
You read that correctly.
Cakes.
I am fascinated by cake decorating! I *love* "Ace of Cakes" on TLC. I have vivid childhood memories of lingering a little too long by the sneeze glass at the Summerville Food Lion's bakery while the hair net clad woman applied rosettes to sheet cakes. I just plain love it!
I called up a local bakery and (after explaining why I wanted to come by), they conceded. I'm permitted to come watch two cakes get decorated today!! Here's hoping they're awesome like a Lego cake and not something lame like, "happy 50th wedding anniversary"... I KID! :)
Tales from the bakery after lunch!
UPDATE:
Cassie and the gang at "Sweet and Sassy" are the cutest! It was such a fun adventure! I have been offered a return visit- that's a no brainer. :)
No big deal- but I learned how to make a princess cake.
Cakes.
I am fascinated by cake decorating! I *love* "Ace of Cakes" on TLC. I have vivid childhood memories of lingering a little too long by the sneeze glass at the Summerville Food Lion's bakery while the hair net clad woman applied rosettes to sheet cakes. I just plain love it!
I called up a local bakery and (after explaining why I wanted to come by), they conceded. I'm permitted to come watch two cakes get decorated today!! Here's hoping they're awesome like a Lego cake and not something lame like, "happy 50th wedding anniversary"... I KID! :)
Tales from the bakery after lunch!
UPDATE:
Cassie and the gang at "Sweet and Sassy" are the cutest! It was such a fun adventure! I have been offered a return visit- that's a no brainer. :)
No big deal- but I learned how to make a princess cake.
30 to 30: Day 4, "Fly Solo"
So, I just got home from attending my first show all by my lonesome and ... it was AWESOME!
Will this replace the moving pictures for guilty pleasure go-to?
It was a good time! I pranced up to Mercy Lounge a smooth 30 minutes early for two reasons. First, I had just eaten dinner with "the family" at Copper Kettle (holy mother, is that place good) after Jordy and Naters dominated a bike race at LP Field. (They were awesome!) I didn't know where else to kill a half an hour. Secondly, I wanted a good spot!
I settled in with my diet coke (boring... but I'm not drinking these days) at the bar. I found myself sending lots of text messages. Am I still in 7th grade in the cafeteria? Sheesh!
After a few moments, I saw a friend Kristin who I worked with at Provident. It was a fun catch up and then she left me to my 'project'. *sidenote* it is fun to have lived in Nashville long enough that I knew a couple peeps there even though I was aiming for the independent attendance award. :)
So, Tyler James started things off. He is great!! He rocked the heck out of a casio keyboard. I rather prefer his creative music and plan to invest in a bit of it. He was a nice surprise.
This is about the same time the couple (perched next to me at the bar) became overwhelmed with affection for one another. An awkward make out sesh began and I was forced to relocate. I don't mind sharing personal space, but seriously... My existance was interrupting them.
Diane Birch was a complete delight! I lucked out huge with this random ticket purchase. 30 to 30 seems a bit enchanted so far. :) Her live performance smacks of Carole King and I was mesmorized. The 2. 5 hours flew by and finally my tired legs gave in. I hit the road just shy of the end of her set but the fact remains- i DID it! I attended my first show alone and... dare I say...?
I would do it again.
Will this replace the moving pictures for guilty pleasure go-to?
It was a good time! I pranced up to Mercy Lounge a smooth 30 minutes early for two reasons. First, I had just eaten dinner with "the family" at Copper Kettle (holy mother, is that place good) after Jordy and Naters dominated a bike race at LP Field. (They were awesome!) I didn't know where else to kill a half an hour. Secondly, I wanted a good spot!
I settled in with my diet coke (boring... but I'm not drinking these days) at the bar. I found myself sending lots of text messages. Am I still in 7th grade in the cafeteria? Sheesh!
After a few moments, I saw a friend Kristin who I worked with at Provident. It was a fun catch up and then she left me to my 'project'. *sidenote* it is fun to have lived in Nashville long enough that I knew a couple peeps there even though I was aiming for the independent attendance award. :)
So, Tyler James started things off. He is great!! He rocked the heck out of a casio keyboard. I rather prefer his creative music and plan to invest in a bit of it. He was a nice surprise.
This is about the same time the couple (perched next to me at the bar) became overwhelmed with affection for one another. An awkward make out sesh began and I was forced to relocate. I don't mind sharing personal space, but seriously... My existance was interrupting them.
Diane Birch was a complete delight! I lucked out huge with this random ticket purchase. 30 to 30 seems a bit enchanted so far. :) Her live performance smacks of Carole King and I was mesmorized. The 2. 5 hours flew by and finally my tired legs gave in. I hit the road just shy of the end of her set but the fact remains- i DID it! I attended my first show alone and... dare I say...?
I would do it again.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
30 to 30: Day 3 "Attitude of Gratitude"
That's me today.
I am thankful for SO many things and people in my life that my little heart may explode!
Today is the day for reflecting on some of the specifics. Notes will be written. Calls will be made. I'm glad. I like that my words can usually say what I mean... comes in handy.
I'm quite sure I'm thankful for you, reader friend.
I am thankful for SO many things and people in my life that my little heart may explode!
Today is the day for reflecting on some of the specifics. Notes will be written. Calls will be made. I'm glad. I like that my words can usually say what I mean... comes in handy.
I'm quite sure I'm thankful for you, reader friend.
Monday, August 10, 2009
30 to 30: Day 2, "Patience Day"
Friends, this could easily be named, "the Anti-Kelley Day".
The very amount of energy I have expended so far reminding myself to be patient is indicative of its lack of presence in my life.
Y'all- I'm not a patient creature. Has it always been this way? I must have been patient at some age..?
When the heck did I get in such a freaking rush?
I always speed at least a few miles per hour, I always find the quickest way to do something (and call it efficient of course!) , and I simply do not take kindly to wasting time. I do some things OK in this life, but NOT this. :)
I believe the biggest epiphany regarding "patience" (which to me really translates to slowing down and being just a smidge accommodating, for pete's sake) is that I do not afford *myself* any slack.
TOTAL SIDENOTE: a few months ago, I used the phrase, "for Pete's sake" to my co-worker Dean- a native Aussie. We went back and forth about "Pete" for about 5 minutes before he finally said, "so, seriously... who's pete?" Its the closest I've come to experiencing something being lost in translation. hehe.
Back to my epiphany. So, It is not others that stand around tapping their Target shoes at me. It is ME! I get that knot in my stomach if I'm late (something I loathe but experience far too often) and proceed to take it out on my car, passengers or general demeanor. Its for the birds, kids. My day long mantra of "calm down... its patience day" may need to extend into the next 30 years instead of days. Everyone on I-440 will benefit.
More later... after the pool party.
UPDATE:
The pool party was WONDERFUL and I'm extra grateful I had the reminder to slow down and be patient... especially when I happily went the speed limit past the hiding officer. My buddy for the night was a precious girl named Grace. We played a lot in the pool and I'm quite sore to tell you the truth. (It was a summer ending pool party for Capernaum- the special needs division of Young Life). What amazing people!! I thoroughly enjoyed myself... patiently. :)
The very amount of energy I have expended so far reminding myself to be patient is indicative of its lack of presence in my life.
Y'all- I'm not a patient creature. Has it always been this way? I must have been patient at some age..?
When the heck did I get in such a freaking rush?
I always speed at least a few miles per hour, I always find the quickest way to do something (and call it efficient of course!) , and I simply do not take kindly to wasting time. I do some things OK in this life, but NOT this. :)
I believe the biggest epiphany regarding "patience" (which to me really translates to slowing down and being just a smidge accommodating, for pete's sake) is that I do not afford *myself* any slack.
TOTAL SIDENOTE: a few months ago, I used the phrase, "for Pete's sake" to my co-worker Dean- a native Aussie. We went back and forth about "Pete" for about 5 minutes before he finally said, "so, seriously... who's pete?" Its the closest I've come to experiencing something being lost in translation. hehe.
Back to my epiphany. So, It is not others that stand around tapping their Target shoes at me. It is ME! I get that knot in my stomach if I'm late (something I loathe but experience far too often) and proceed to take it out on my car, passengers or general demeanor. Its for the birds, kids. My day long mantra of "calm down... its patience day" may need to extend into the next 30 years instead of days. Everyone on I-440 will benefit.
More later... after the pool party.
UPDATE:
The pool party was WONDERFUL and I'm extra grateful I had the reminder to slow down and be patient... especially when I happily went the speed limit past the hiding officer. My buddy for the night was a precious girl named Grace. We played a lot in the pool and I'm quite sore to tell you the truth. (It was a summer ending pool party for Capernaum- the special needs division of Young Life). What amazing people!! I thoroughly enjoyed myself... patiently. :)
Sunday, August 9, 2009
30 to 30: Day 1, "The State of the Kelley"
Today is the day! Only 30 days until I hit the big 3-0! Something I was dreading has become something I am quite thrilled about!
That "thing" is the start of the next 30 years of my life!
For the next 30 days, I will be trying something new each day. My goal for this endeavor is to stretch myself mentally, physically and spiritually in the hopes of (a) starting 30 with a bang! and (b) see what wonderful things I learn and perspective I can gain in a short time. Its all about perspective, isn't it?
You will have to check in each day as the adventures will vary pretty dramatically. :)
Today's challenge is a simple one- an assessment of sorts- a basis for the coming month. Where have I been and where am I going? The state of the... Kelley.
I work best in a stream of consciousness, so here we go:
- My closest friend on planet earth is my sister Kristin. It makes me sad for the rest of you... that she's not your sister. Its really so wonderful to have such a kindred spirit in this life.
- At some point about ten years ago Mom and Dad went from only parents to parents and friends. I rather enjoy their company so much that I feel sure we'd be friends regardless of if I'd been born to them or not. Cam and Carol are a riot, y'all. I look forward to what's in store.
- I thrive on humor. Life can be quite serious and I find that if I can laugh and make others laugh, it just makes it better.
- I am a natural extrovert in some ways and an introvert in others. Maybe I'm just finicky about my alone time, really. Sometimes I want it and sometimes I don't. In general, I enjoy people very very much.
- Being physically fit becomes more and more important to me every day.
- I'm grateful for community. My dear friends, my amazing church and my actual family have made a very nice cocoon of love for me to exist within. Its the first time my friend world has overlapped with my church family world. It is a huge honor to be a part of City Church and learn as much as I have there over the last 3 years. The Lord has been good to me!
- Home (Laudy) is both a ton of fun as well as a place of peace and I am quite happy!
- I'm a bashful conversationalist when it comes to politics. Maybe that's because I enjoy conversation more than I tolerate an argument.
- I haven't mastered breaking out of my "people pleasing" addiction. Will this ever change?
- Sometimes I think everything in my life would be perfect if I had a companion to enjoy it with.
- Sometimes I think everything in my life would be perfect if I never had a companion to enjoy it with.
- I'm tempted to think financial security makes it possible to relax.
- I wouldn't mind getting married, but I don't want a wedding. So sue me...
- The older I get, the more friends feel like family. I hope my friends will always be one of my top priorities.
- I feel like age has more to do with the stage of life than the number insinuates. At this rate, I may be "in my twenties" for the foreseeable future.
- My biggest fears include submarines and terrible storms.
- I could be a bit more confident...who couldn't?
- It doesn't take much to make me happy.
- I am excited for and nervous about this project. :)
I'm sure I'll think of things later that I'll wish I had added to this list, but there it is. Tomorrow is patience day. Here goes nothin'.
That "thing" is the start of the next 30 years of my life!
For the next 30 days, I will be trying something new each day. My goal for this endeavor is to stretch myself mentally, physically and spiritually in the hopes of (a) starting 30 with a bang! and (b) see what wonderful things I learn and perspective I can gain in a short time. Its all about perspective, isn't it?
You will have to check in each day as the adventures will vary pretty dramatically. :)
Today's challenge is a simple one- an assessment of sorts- a basis for the coming month. Where have I been and where am I going? The state of the... Kelley.
I work best in a stream of consciousness, so here we go:
- My closest friend on planet earth is my sister Kristin. It makes me sad for the rest of you... that she's not your sister. Its really so wonderful to have such a kindred spirit in this life.
- At some point about ten years ago Mom and Dad went from only parents to parents and friends. I rather enjoy their company so much that I feel sure we'd be friends regardless of if I'd been born to them or not. Cam and Carol are a riot, y'all. I look forward to what's in store.
- I thrive on humor. Life can be quite serious and I find that if I can laugh and make others laugh, it just makes it better.
- I am a natural extrovert in some ways and an introvert in others. Maybe I'm just finicky about my alone time, really. Sometimes I want it and sometimes I don't. In general, I enjoy people very very much.
- Being physically fit becomes more and more important to me every day.
- I'm grateful for community. My dear friends, my amazing church and my actual family have made a very nice cocoon of love for me to exist within. Its the first time my friend world has overlapped with my church family world. It is a huge honor to be a part of City Church and learn as much as I have there over the last 3 years. The Lord has been good to me!
- Home (Laudy) is both a ton of fun as well as a place of peace and I am quite happy!
- I'm a bashful conversationalist when it comes to politics. Maybe that's because I enjoy conversation more than I tolerate an argument.
- I haven't mastered breaking out of my "people pleasing" addiction. Will this ever change?
- Sometimes I think everything in my life would be perfect if I had a companion to enjoy it with.
- Sometimes I think everything in my life would be perfect if I never had a companion to enjoy it with.
- I'm tempted to think financial security makes it possible to relax.
- I wouldn't mind getting married, but I don't want a wedding. So sue me...
- The older I get, the more friends feel like family. I hope my friends will always be one of my top priorities.
- I feel like age has more to do with the stage of life than the number insinuates. At this rate, I may be "in my twenties" for the foreseeable future.
- My biggest fears include submarines and terrible storms.
- I could be a bit more confident...who couldn't?
- It doesn't take much to make me happy.
- I am excited for and nervous about this project. :)
I'm sure I'll think of things later that I'll wish I had added to this list, but there it is. Tomorrow is patience day. Here goes nothin'.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Just Sayin'...
I would just like to go on record as KNOWING something like this would happen.
All of a sudden I feel very justified in not having watched "The Bachelorette"... how did I manage that? I stuck to my guns until the last five minutes of the show.
Just had to quit it like I rip off a band-aid, friends.
All of a sudden I feel very justified in not having watched "The Bachelorette"... how did I manage that? I stuck to my guns until the last five minutes of the show.
Just had to quit it like I rip off a band-aid, friends.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
me
i got my hair did.
by kristin!
duh.
by kristin!
duh.
I'll take a slightly more flattering photo of said hair in the near fyooch, but for now, this will have to do.
Is it the weekend yet? I have *loved* these summer weekends! Maybe the best summer of my adulthood... and I haven't the first clue why. Lots of little things, I guess. :)
night night!
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