on going places.

Two days ago marked three months in to my 32nd year.

One quarter of the way to 33, you guys. Sure, I love number alliteration as much as the next guy, but I am not racing the calendar on next year's birthday. I never am, really. duh.

So, like most things, it has me pondering what goal I am reaching for. I don't naturally align myself with people who the world would consider are "goal oriented." Those people probably exercise regularly and wonder what to do with all the money they have systematically put aside for things other than faux fur hats at TJ Maxx. (mine rules.)

No, those folks never seemed very... "Kelley Kirker." BUT, aren't they? Because I am really only happy if I am knocking things off a to-do list or one step closer to an accomplishment. The difference between the "goal oriented" and me probably has a lot to do with the caliber of goals being accomplished. I am not hiking Kilimanjaro... I am talking, "eat healthfully for six weeks" or "buy and wear super sexy heels for the Christmas party- no changing into flip flops!" sort of stuff. Still, its not all boring. Its just a goal with training wheels, ya know?

So, since time has insisted on speeding up in the last few years, I have to keep up. I now have 3/4 of the year at my disposal and I intend to make the most of it!

I am feeling the need to reinvent my "30 to 30" tour of 2009. Maybe I do "32 while 32" ha. That way, I am giving myself more time than a month. Whatever it shapes up to be, I need to get to work. You know the scene in Elf (of course you do), when the elves have *just* finished that years' toys and Santa says it is time to get started on next year and they all cheer? Its also when baby Buddy crawls out of Santa's bag. Well, that is how I feel. I have just gotten used to 32 and here I am prepping for 33. Really, I just want to get to work doing things on purpose.

I'm going places, you guys.

I need some input on brand new challenge ideas. Do you have any to offer?

Now, to make the most of this weekend. It will bring the experience of a great day o' volunteering with HelpPortrait, babysitting a tot, another watch of "White Christmas", and spending time with friends. Can't beat it.

xo,
Kelley

Fourth.

Lo, these four years later, this li'l blog is still alive and kickin'. Can you believe it?

Thanks for humoring me and giving two hoots about the musings of a distracted but lively 30-something. Heck, you've *watched* me enter the world of the 30's. I am ready for the next 4. Let's face it, by then, I may just be writing in code or braille to keep it exciting.

Happy Thanksgiving week!

Love,

Kelley

on breaking news.

My hair is (finally) long enough for a bun.

(!!!!!)

That's all.

xo.

On time FLYING by.

Sometimes it feels like years fly by in half the time now. It makes me insane. There is too much to enjoy, experience and treasure for days to evaporate the way they do. I don't even have kids yet. I am told it kicks in to high gear then.

For example:

Nearly two years ago, this was happening:

Not just the "me having brown hair" thing.  Amanda and David had just welcomed L and J... wondrous little handsome, curious creatures of joy, they are.


Now, this is happening:

HOW?

Do yourself a favor and read Amanda's post today. If only time could stop.

xo,

KK

A Baby and a Bunny.

Because I know you're eager to know what happened dress up wise, here you go:

I present Frances "Baby" Houseman:

Its a stretch. I know. I look more like a monochromatic parakeet with big hair. 

Not a frizzy-haired dirty dancer. 

I had to explain my outfit to everyone. 

Whateves. It ruled. 

For work (and children-of-coworkers coming to trick or treat), I give you: 

A bunny.

No, I'm not concealing a pregnancy like Jessica Simpson... its just an unfortunate angle. 

Love,

KK

On Dress Up!

Its Halloween on Monday so, in anticipation, I am attending a party on Saturday night.

I'll be going as "Baby" from Dirty Dancing... the 80's cult classic. Neveryoumind that I was strictly forbidden from actually watching it as a child but I've made up for lost time in my adulthood. (sorry, Cam and Carol.) I just get lost in the music and dancing. The motivator is the fact that the theme of the party is "infamous."

I mean, what is more infamous than Jennifer Gray's epic nose job post-production?

A Kardashian? Yes. A Kardashian is but there is not enough sunless tanner or regret to make me a Kardashian by Saturday, okay?

So, I am going to sport a prosthetic nose, a pink dress (or tank/skirt combo... depending on what TJ Maxx has for me at lunch) and some gold heels. I will also be curling/frizzing my hair like whoa. If only Baby had red hair. Eh- you win some, you lose some.

Here's hoping there's a Johnny Castle in the crowd. (May P Swayze rest.)

Here's what I don't have the body for but would have been fun:

Here's what I REALLY don't have the body for but would have been recognizable... maybe:

Here's what I'm gonna go for:

* Please don't miss the film's tagline, people. "First Dance. First Love. The time of your life." *

I will also dream of this happening because I am prone to big dreams:

Also, if I can't find pink outfit elements, I will go with the sundress, cardigan and watermelon look seen here: (quoting "I carried a watermelon...??" all night.)

I "do it all for you",

XO,
KK

OK.

I am out of the habit, y'all.

Whenever I come back to blogging after a season away, I feel compelled to bring you up to speed. I mean, it hasn't been a month, but still.

 I want to tell you that in the last month, I have:

- Taken to eating food that occurs in nature (as evidenced in the previous post).

- Taken to being kind to myself when I eat processed food (like that day at the cook out at work when I ate a hamburger *and* hot dog.)

- Gotten a promotion at work. I am no longer a Design Consultant for Emma... I am now the Emma Host who welcomes new clients. It is pretty thrilling to do something every day that I feel perfectly suited for.

- Booked an appointment to get my fillings replaced next week. ONLY in my adulthood would I be thrilled to get dental work while others get vacations. (who am I kidding? I still go on vacation.) Nevertheless, I'm pumped about getting mercury fillings removed and being metal free, y'all.

- Realized that from now to mid-January, I will attend 5 weddings! That does not even include the two I really wish I could attend but can't because of distance. I love love. I just do.

- Enjoyed really busy days, mostly busy nights and still manage to get some good sleep sometimes. This felt worth noting.

- Got the box set of Friday Night Lights from two dear friends I organized for. SO THRILLING. The only thing more thrilling is that they got SO into the organization of their basement and it is, honestly, a vision. Its incredibly gratifying. Seriously though, if you haven't watched FNL, you are missing out. Just ask Kristin who watched the series, in its entirety, in 2 weeks. Right, Kris?

- Had one of my oldest and dearest friends visit from Charleston with her sweet mama. It was a total blast and we explored Leiper's Fork while they were here. We also hung out with some firemen but that is an entirely different story.

- I got to NC to spend some AMAZING quality time with my college besties. It was just... amazing. I love them and they love me so well. Is there anything so sweet as that?

That feels like a good stopping point. I have so many things to be grateful for. Last night I had a great conversation with my friend Annie and we marveled at how, when you're talking with someone you love, its hard not to come back to a place of gratitude. Life can be kinda crappy at the time but there will still be an overwhelm of joy when you have someone loving remind you of the truth.

I am just grateful and happy.

xo

On (Un)Processing.

For starters, I am so out of the practice of daily blogging that you'll be getting periodic updates this month. Baby steps.

So, I am only ONE more sleep away from my annual getaway weekend with my college besties. Katherine, Heidi, Julie and I get together every year and we laugh, eat and love our way through the weekend. We ask each other hard questions, pass tissues when we cry and laugh hard at and with each other. I am excited to get to the mountains and not leave elastic pants the whole weekend. Woop!

Speaking of processing, I am avoiding processed foods like the plague, y'all.

I've only eaten food that grows out of the ground or clucks around the ground... you see what I mean. Lots of ground-centric eating. OH, and LaCroix. A girl has gotta have her vices.. even if it is just bubbly water.

Yesterday I had an amazing meal of deliciousness. Just look! I had chicken, brussel sprouts, zucchini, squash, black bean & corn salad and cabbage. I wish I could eat it again and again.

I'm really loving the new habit of checking the ingredients for something other than knowing the calories. I love that I'm checking for the number of ingredients and what they are. It is just plain nice to know precisely what I'm putting in my body. Its not like this Unprocessed-ness is all that dissimilar to how I've been eating for the last few months but it sure is a focused attention to the origin of my food and I rather love it.

I'm thankful for pretty food but I'm also really grateful for the gorgeous weather. It was a little warm this morning when we went to the "ground breaking" for the new Emma digs. The sun reminded us we're having a bit of an Indian Summer. Which I love. I already miss Summer and its barely out the door. :)

I'm also grateful for legs and feet that work, super red hair, a fun weekend ahead, good music and loving friends.

Good night.

Love,
Kelley

On Accomplishing... miles and meals.

Oh... was there ever riding.

Between October 1st and 2nd, I, Kelley Kirker (being of sound mind and body) rode my bicycle 114 miles. Yes, you read that correctly. I did that.

and IT RULED!

I am so proud to tell you that I did it! My legs are hating me today but I sure did it. :)

I shared some highlights with my supporters and here is what I wrote:

- I had my "brothers" with me!  My brother in law, Chad, and his brother, Blake, stayed with me the entire time. (For those of you who know Chad, you know that was a gift! He could easily have zoomed through the whole course as he is an exceptional cyclist. He chose to stay with me instead and I'll never forget it.) They were both such encouragers and totally dominated that ride! We covered 114 miles together and I wouldn't have had it any other way. 

- My legs took me 114 miles and I had NO vision trouble and NO numbness whatsoever!! It was just as much a mental challenge as it was a physical one. I'm so grateful! 

- My team (Team Emma) were able to raise over $8,000 for MS research! I'm so proud of our tiny team of 12 for accomplishing such a feat.

- We camped and did not become popsicles... even though I thought it *may* happen. It as a cold night in Lynchburg, TN,  y'all.

- The weather was pristine! We could not have asked for better weather as both days were gorgeous sunny days that never got above the mid 60s. Both days started quite chilly but we planned accordingly. (Another shout-out to Chad for the heads up!)

- Training (and the ride) made me realize how much I enjoy riding so I'll be doing a lot more of it this year! Which brings me to...

- We all signed up to do it again next year! (what have we done?!) Ha! It was such a great experience... hard but so good. I will need a few days to recover before I say I'm looking forward to it- but I am glad we "re-cycled", as they say. 

Here is a shot of my team in front of an enormous inflatable whiskey bottle... of course.

So, It was an amazing challenge and I am sort of welling up with pride over having accomplished it. Now, did you think I would let time pass before immediately taking on another challenge? Pshhhh. Don't be crazy. I have joined in with a few co-worker friends who have accepted the "No Processed October" challenge. That means not eating anything that doesn't occur in nature, basically. Our rule is that if you can't make it in your kitchen- don't eat it. (There goes gummy worms.) So, the truth is, I feel best when I'm eating well and I think avoiding things that are processed will be a great accompaniment to my eating overhauls of this year. (With the exception of Jack and Back, of course. I mean, every single piece of "food" was processed. Except for the cookout on Saturday night- that was good.)

Tonight, I did my weekly food shopping and snagged only foods that occur in nature or at least have ingredients I recognize. I'm super pumped because I gravitated to foods I buy regularly and realized that most things fall into the "no processed"category. Don't worry- there was also junk on every aisle that actually looked good but I resisted!

Today's meals included a smattering of eggs, greek salad with veggies and shrimp, sushi and honey crisp apples. Madeline (at Publix) was in to the challenge. She was impressed and even agreed to let me take a picture of her. I like documenting things.

Thanks for following my adventures, you guys. This month will be full of ways I am grateful. Today's is obvious. We shall see what tomorrow shall hold. Stay tuned. :)

on Seasons

Hey you- I am grateful for you.

I tend toward contemplation in the Fall and this year promises to be no exception. Interestingly, this blog has become a tool for just such an exercise. I mean, I am just as surprised as you are that this thing has lasted four years. FOUR years, you guys. (well, almost. In a couple months will be the 4 year marker.) I tend to look back at a day in my own history via my blog. Today, I indulged in September in years gone by. I find myself changed a bit. In good and bad ways, if I'm honest. I also find myself constant in some ways. (Always nice to not feel nuts every now and then.)

Just one week shy of a year ago, I started the goal of writing mostly stories here in this space. I wanted to step away from the Facebookery my blog had become and I leaned in to storytelling. Here, a year later, I feel like I still have stories to tell. I shall continue because, let's be real, I will continue to do and experience ridiculous things and I will want nay... need you to be a part. It just makes things funnier.

I have mentioned before that I like the idea of themes and seasons. I don't know, I guess I just like knowing what I'm working with. If you told me I had to eat only kale for a month, you better believe my mantra would become, "I can do anything for a month." Now, if it were open ended, I would laugh at you. So, I find myself a creature who loves a set time frame. (What control issues?) I think, in order to accomplish (a) a breath of fresh air for this blog and (b) an opportunity to glory in my neurosis, I will begin a year of monthly themes.

It is a little late in September to start now so I'll probably just start in October. Based upon an overwhelming acknowledgement of the good things in my life, the theme for October will be gratefulness. You will hear stories of gratitude, examples of it in my life, other people's stories and maybe even thoughts from a book or movie... I don't know. We're crazy around here.*

So, this theme thing will also be a means to get me back in the saddle. After a bit of a hiatus, I am ready and excited to get back in the groove of writing.

Good night, friends. More soon!
- Kelley

PS. I will have you fabulous people know that you helped me raise over $1,000 for the MS 150 "Jack and Back" bike ride I'll be doing in just a couple weeks. I am so thankful for your love and support!!

PPS. My hair is now reallllly red, you guys. Kristin did and I rather love it! In case you are like me rock and RSS feed and, therefore, never actually look at blogs any more, you may like to hop over and take a peek at the update I made to the old girl. Just updated my picture and the background but it switches things up nicely. Pretty soon, my friend is going to do a design for this thing and I'm pretty stoked. Stay tuned. ;)


*fine. its just me but doesn't it sound zany to say "we're crazy around here" over "I'm seriously crazy over here?" I think that point just made itself.

On "the biggest challenge yet".

I have started to write this post a handful of times. I planned when I would write it, how I would write it and *if* I would write it. Each time ended in the closing of my computer and the thought of saving it for another day.

It doesn't feel safe.

But I'm going to do it. I am going to share the personal on a very public stage. (Because it seems I have an international viewership, y'all.) Before I get started, I need you to know two things:

(a) I am nervous to share this with you because I fear your response. I don't dread your response. I fear it. I fear it because I know you will all mean well when you offer advice. I know your words will come from a well-meaning heart. I am just a little fragile right now and I am not ready to hear of every story, person and experience you have to share with me. Thank you, but no, I am not ready to make connections {about it} with those beyond my people yet. I am learning that my favorite response so far is not a solution but a simple admission that it sucks. Do with that what you will, my loves.

(b) I am OK. This is a post that has been considered over and over. I am ready to share it. Be gentle.

Here goes. In February of this year, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. It was a devastation but not a shock. If you have been reading for any amount of time, you know I have had on and off again struggles with eye trouble. (Specifically recurrent Optic Neuritis.) While the two years of eye woes were troublesome (and even involved an eye patch for a season), they were not reason enough for the real worry. Until, Christmas Day, I woke up with a numb left leg. After a few days of denial and confusion, I finally made myself say the words out loud to another person. I told Erin and she let me know it was time to call my neurologist. A month later, after a spinal tap, spinal headache and some serious love and support from my people, I was given a new title to add to my story- MS patient.

I have had it fairly easy, friends. As far as MS goes, I am so fortunate to have had blurred vision and numbness as my experience. I am not saying it is easy but I get that I am fortunate. With that said, I am currently battling a bout of profound numbness (yet, somehow, pain too... rude) in both feet and my left leg. It is completely frustrating to have trouble getting around and I will be glad when it passes. If I had to say one nice thing about MS, I would say it is a disease of seasons. How wonderful to know this one will pass. That is mercy.

In order to share that info with you, I must share the other half. My thoughts and truths so far:

1. I am so loved that it is scary. I actually don't know what to do about it and that makes me the most fortunate girl you know.
2. I am afraid but not despairing. There is a difference.
3. I cannot do next week yet. I can do tomorrow. It is my new mode of operation.
4. I am amazed by the amount of homeopathic solutions available.
5. I do not want to take injections for the rest of my life but I am not going to spit on progress either. I am just not ready to start them yet (and hope I never will be.)
6. MS will be part of my story but it won't be the whole story.
7. I go through emotional changes, regarding my diagnosis, rather often. One day I am empowered and the next I am just sad. I have touched down everywhere in between. This will be the case forever. If we talk about this face to face, please don't be alarmed if I laugh about it or if I cry. I wear both hats every day.

There are many more thoughts I have about this disease and the community surrounding it. I won't share it all here, though. I could spend an hour listing the people who have spoken life into my situation- breathed hope. I can't list them all. I could share all of my specific fears but I won't give in to them tonight.

So, why now? Why share this 6 months later? Well, I'm glad you asked. I am participating in a bike race the first weekend in October. It is called "Jack and Back" and will be a bike ride from Nashville to the Jack Daniels distillery in Lynchburg. I am riding with my team from work and my brother in law, Chad, is even coming to ride with us! I am looking forward to the challenge and hope I can do it well! It is 150 miles split over 2 days and will require a new wave of gumption from yours truly. I am up to it and growing more and more excited each day. If you would like to, check out my PAGE.

I have no plans to start writing about MS in this space (where we tell stories.) I am not ready for that. I just needed to let you in on my life and, even though it is scary, mom reminded me- I am not a person without Hope.

xo.

Carolism

I must interrupt this story telling series for a small shout-out to Carol. This morning, while on her way to her new doctor (one of the steps of moving from North to South Carolina), she gave me a call. After a delightful chat, this happened:

me: So, I'll just give you a call tomorrow.
Carol: Oh shoot- where is that hospital. UGH- I'm a terrible person.
me: MOM!
Carol: No- I'm not. I meant to say, "I'm a terrible person with directions."
me: well, that's true.
Carol: OH GOOD- there's a helicopter. I'll follow it. Bye!
me: oh, lord.

Ain't no party like a Carol Kirker party cuz a Carol Kirker party don't stop.

On passing out.

I pass out. I'm a passer- outer.

I would have said that I pass out more than the average person but it has been a while now, so I may cut myself some slack. This fun little hobby goes way back. It never been convenient. Its always involved nausea. Pretty sexy so far, huh? Trust me... I know. I will share with you the five most notable episodes in order to meet our collective laughter quota for the day. Join me.

My first adventure into the land-of-the-suddenly-unconscious happened just three days after a life changing event. Charleston had just endured Hurricane Hugo in September of 1989 and I was a 5th grader without a school to attend for a while. Carol knew how to cheer up her traumatized daughter (um... seriously. Something in me was off.) Kristin and I had gotten our ears pierced for our birthday just a few weeks earlier so it was OBviously time to change up the standard gold studs for something super awesome. Like cow earrings.

So, there I stood in mom's bathroom (super pumped about the adulthood raining down around me... I mean, Debbie Gibson wore earrings like the ones I planned to stab into my tender little lobes. It was, and I still stand by this, worth it y'all.) It was the moment of truth and mom treated the situation with the precision of the medical professional she is. She also responded to my acknowledgement of a single dot of blood with panther speed. By that, I mean she grabbed a pillow and threw it into my path just in time to soften the fall. Carol rules.... she always has. She says my eyes rolled back in my head and down I went. I distinctly remember that I couldn't hear anything and my peripheral vision went away. I also remember knowing it wasn't happening because of pain- there wasn't any. It was the anticipation of pain (you will see this become a trend.) All I wanted to do was barf everywhere but tiny angels kept it inside and the day was saved. The earrings got changed and I went back to enjoying the climbing of tree roots in the neighborhood. It is still one of the first things I think about when I think about Hurricane Hugo, which is just sad.

The next time was memorable because it was only a year later. I woke up one Saturday morning and could not open my eyes because they stung so badly. I hobbled into the bathroom to rinse them with some cold water. The next thing I remember is lying on the floor and, you guessed it, needing to barf. It still didn't happen. (Sidebar: needing to throw up is the worst part. I know that logically it is always better just get it over with and feel amazing but I think I have a fear of vomit or something. I will do whatever it takes to avoid it. Plainly.) I think this time was when I realized I was really talented at passing out. I got out of chores that day and watched Saved by the Bell while Kristin cleaned my part of the bathroom. Who do you think won that day?

There were a few not-so-notable episodes in high school but we'll jump ahead to the awesome one where they thought I was seizing. It was August in Telford, Pennsylvania and Heidi Schmidt was to become Heidi Schmidt Corbett. There were a handful of us readying the sanctuary for the service and I was carrying a riser/ platform backwards. The church pew jumped out of NO where and suddenly my hand (read: nerve) got squooshed with all the force of the huge wooden thing we were carrying. For some reason (I felt like I was watching it), I thought it wise to drop the riser and run to the other side of the church where my purse was. Naturally. The next stuff I PROMISE you I am not making up. Everyone was calling some girl named Kelley and I kept hoping she would just answer them so I could sleep. I had only been out a few seconds but I had a dream. It actually physically hurt to wake up. Everyone was flipping out and wanting to feed me animal crackers... thinking I was hypoglycemic. I managed to convince Jesse (groom) to let me fall back asleep. Supposedly, that is when I started convulsing and that's when things got awesome. They call this a "vagal response", you guys. My heart rate dropped really low and I was instantly sweating like I had just run a marathon. I promise you I had another dream the second time I fell asleep. It was weird and I was exhausted the rest of the day. The best part? No one took me to the doctor. That is what it looks like to be in college and to have an ailment. No matter- the bottom line is I walked it off like a boss.

Something very similar happened once when I was getting a mole removed a few years later (this just gets sexier.) I remember thinking it was verrrrrry quiet at the doctor's office and I was worried it would hurt. I also remember trying to say, "Uh, something is wrong. I think I may pass out or something guys." but what came out was, "I'm not, uh, very good at this. I'm not good at..... this." Turns out it doesn't translate the same. Next thing I know, I was having my first whiff of smelling salts. Gross. I was face down (moments before, I was sitting up looking forward) and there was a member of the dermatologist's office at each appendage. They thought I was dying. There was a defibrillator out. They were holding me down so I must have been convulsing. I was sweating, tired from dreaming hard, nauseous and confused. I didn't remember where I worked, I couldn't think of anyone to call. I ended up thinking of our secretary at the church and she came to get me. It was not awesome. I never went back to that doctor. Too much pride was left on the field that day.

The last that will be told today is an awesome one. I may have saved the best for last. (This is one of those times I wish I labeled anything because I feel sure I have told this story before.) I had a shady landlord in my first house in Nashville. Kristin had moved to Chicago, so I moved in with a girl. We lived in a sketch neighborhood off of a sketch road. Our landlord had someone patch a section of the ceiling once a year. Each year, it would fall. Just like clockwork. It was due to the flooding of the walled in water heater on the 2nd floor. Awesome. I came home to a kitchen full of insulation and ceiling fragments. I was home alone and it was Memorial day weekend so there was no getting someone to fix it professionally. Instead, he sent over a man he employed in his carpet warehouse. I am fairly sure had not eaten in days. He begged for breakfast while he cleaned the mess up using bike gloves. (That is the day I learned how awesome hot sauce is on eggs. Try it- you'll never go back.) Once he was done tidying up, he left the bag of debris in the walkway- a normal place for ceiling falling trash. A few weeks later (what?! I was busy), I went to move the bag in to the trash can and one swift swing of the bag later, I saw into my leg to the fat cells. There was a piece of glass in the bag, you see. Long story (a tad) shorter, my roommate took me to an urgent care joint to get 14 stitches but not before I passed out on the kitchen floor. She "went to Walgreens." I would later find out she just went outside to call her fiance and freak out over how deep my cut was. I was busy passing out, so I didn't notice. Again, all I got out was, "I'm not good at this." Couldn't I come up with a better catch phrase? Anyhow, I managed to bring my camera to the doctors so I could see my leg once it was sewn up and back to awesome. I obviously had my priorities straight. The passing out took a back seat that day but, overall, it is my most dramatic.

So far.

*wink*

I wonder if you will be there the next time I pass out? You bring the pillow. I'll bring the nausea. We'll party.

xo.

On Inspiration.

I've been writing some poetry lately.

Its not fancy.
It doesn't rhyme.

In fact, I don't have any plans to show any of you. I sort of love that, really. I apologize, because that is like saying, "OH- did I tell you? No... I can't." I get it... lame.

But, Its true and I am proud of and enjoying it.

I have also been reading a lot. Not only because of books like this, this and this... but because I was given some good advice recently. It was downright inspirational. I had a mentor give me insight into my (work) personality as it is *really* similar to hers. She gave me some pointers on how to focus. She recommended, among other things, constant reading. Reading while watching something (non interesting) on the television, even. Basically, multi-tasking in order to streamline my focus. Pretty funny. Even funnier? It works.

I get inspired by challenges. Not a shocker. I am just pleased every time it happens because I never know if daring myself to do things will lose its exhilaration. It hasn't yet and that makes me happy. I've paused the whole "jump out of planes" phase and toned things down. I've been inspired to be grateful lately. I've dared myself to write down what I'm grateful for as the thought occurs to me. There is a brand new moleskine waiting to catch them. Its filling up quickly and so is my awareness of what a blessed girl I am.

I've been inspired by the app Pinterest lately. It is essentially an idea/inspiration board for the iPhone. I haven't figured out how to post anything yet but I SURE love browsing. I am not a big shopper but this app will probably change that. eep!

I have been especially inspired by jazz music of late... jazz and old R&B/soul. I cannot get enough of Otis Redding and my girl Esperanza Spaulding lately. If it is wrong, I don't wanna be right.

I have also been inspired by old photos. Mom and dad are in the process of moving (back to SC!!) and with that comes reminiscing. I love it. I think I would waste an entire day looking at old photos, so its good I'm not there.

So, while nearly a month has passed far too quickly, I have been happy. Its Summertime... what other option is there?

xo.

On things.

Things.

I have things to catch you up on, y'all.

(a) I think I got bitten by a tick (or two) last week. Woof. Waiting 'til morning for the Minute Clinic to open. Its on my mind so it gets top billing, OK? Say it with me now, "no lyme, no lyme, no lyyyyyme."

(b) I got these bites in South Carolina WHERE I GOT TO HANG OUT LAST WEEK!

(c) I got ten days with my fave human and her hubs, mom, diddy, etc. It was wicked awesome. Chad graduated and dominated English at the University of South Carolina. I am beyond grateful for the time away and time to rest with my people.

(d) I think I got my tick bites when I went SKYDIVING!! You guys. It was the best experience of my life. I think. I am fairly (90%) sure that, if someone else funded it, I would do it every day. It was incredible! I got to leap out of a plane at 14,000 feet and felt like the queen of the world. Just look!

 

 If anyone wants to go, I'm in. Seriously.

(e) I get to go see my friend Bill Harritt marry his bride, Janet, tomorrow in Memphis. Never you mind that their wedding is at 6pm which is when the world is supposed to end. Hope not. (ps. how bananas is that business? I found a website offering post-apocalyptic pet care. wow.) I'm so excited about seeing so many friends and celebrating with the Harritts. It will be amazing. :)

(f) Book club is next week and we are discussing "Hunger Games"... I am so excited! (Next month is "Bossypants" by Tina Fey, so I can't really decide which I'm more excited about.) I have more than met my challenge of reading this year and I am so thrilled about it. Any good books I shouldn't miss?

(g) The Cicada infestation of 2011 is only beginning, you guys. I hear we've not yet reached the "swarming phase", so that's neat. They have red eyes and I can't deal. 

(h) I wrote a blog post for work: check it! As some of a hair chameleon, pictures of my changing 'dos were featured. Personally, I think I look like sisters... triplets. Not the same person. Is that because I share a face with someone or am I right?

Gonna go google "tick bites", so I better go. If the world ends tomorrow, I love you.

I do anyway, actually.

xo

kk

On awareness.

I would say that, this morning, I am aware. Not like I am comatose other mornings (though some co-workers may disagree.) I only mean that this morning brought new awareness.

I was sitting on my couch last night (watching "ET", if you must know. "phone hoooome") when Kristin called and said, "did you hear? Osama Bin Laden was killed." I replied with, "For real? I'll remember this moment." I was instantly overwhelmed with emotion. I had the same emotions rush over me when I saw the images of Saddam Hussein being put to death.

Utter sadness.

Please don't misunderstand. I am a patriot. I am proud of America and prouder of people who dedicate their lives to protecting Her. I think we're a truly great country. That being said, I just can't celebrate anyone's death. I think Osama's death is what most consider a just end to a war with terror. I absolutely concede that he needed to be stopped but I am sad it had to be with death.

I'm not sad he's been stopped from doing terrible things. I'm sad because he is a man with a soul.

Yes, he made some terrible decisions but I believe in God and His Son Jesus. I also believe the Bible is true, so I believe he has to stand before God and answer for those choices and that makes me want to cry. I am much closer to tears than joy today. Regardless of what you believe, I think it is worth considering that a man has died and, as a nation, we are setting off fireworks...?

Those are controversial thoughts and I am, honestly, nervous about alienating those who don't agree. I also like to be liked. But, I'm honest with you here and this is what I'm dealing with today. I've also been the recipient of so much love that it is hard to think about people who haven't.

The next emotions in line are ones that remind me he was just one man. There are lots of people dedicated to terror (which is horrifying) and I just happen to think we're a bit *more* of a target now. I hope that isn't true. Its just feels like it may be. Fear is no way to live, so I won't give in to it. I just keep coming back to the sobering  feeling that life is short and we aren't the authors of it.

Mercy.

On space food.

So, by now, you know I was in the high school marching band.

Well, one of the perks was the annual out-of-town parade we would march in. Once it was the epic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (where we marched behind the Lawrence brothers.) Kristin and I carried the banner. No biggie. Another time, we got to traipse all over Disney World for a "Magical Music Day" celebration. It ruled because we spent the entire time riding Space Mountain and about eleven and a half minutes marching in wool uniforms in south Florida. [That was the same trip where we saw Topanga and Cory shooting an Easter special a few months early. It was a BIG moment.]

Those were the days, you guys. The days where we would show up to school super early in the morning and file onto a chartered bus... well, 6 of them. That is when things got awesome. If one was a senior or one's seat partner was scrappy, one could plan to have the best seat on the bus... the last one. Now, to the untrained eye, that looks like I'm saying, 'it was super awesome to sit next to the bathroom'... puh-lease. The back seat was basically a throne (see what I did there?) for the bus prince and princess. (Because DUH- you would not be caught dead crush-less on an out of state trip. What is this? Survivor?) Upon securing the coveted spot, we would settle in for the long journey. It usually meant at least one Tom Hanks movie and gas station stops for Moon Pies.

Well, the time we went to NYC was maybe the greatest. Not only did we hit up the Big Apple... well, a lot more of Jersey... but we also spent a couple of days in our nation's capitol- Washington, DC.

I have somewhat faded memories of Washington, which should surprise you. I forget almost nothing. There is a perfectly good explanation. No, it wasn't because the hotel where we stayed was tended by gypsies who were having a seance when we arrived. (Bible- that's true.) It also wasn't because we slept in that hotel with our doors open to the elements because the heater was broken and wouldn't stop until we melted. It was because of the Smithsonian.

Now, I was never much of a history nerd as a kid. I loved the Charleston Museum for one reason and that was because they sold rock candy in the gift shop. So, upon learning we were headed to the best museums our nation has to offer, I was a little less than enthused. I thought, "wouldn't it be neater if we all rolled up our pants and went running through the reflection pond to pretend we are Forrest and Jenny?" but no. We were off to learn about things.... and I TOTALLY LOVED IT!

You guys. The Air and Space Museum was the absolute best. We walked and walked until we could walk no more. Did I tell you my mom was a chaperone on this trip? She was. So, we walked and walked. Finally, after having so much fun *and* using my brain, I decided it was time for a reward. Space food. Not just space food... space ice cream! It was Neapolitan and super weirdly incredible. Kind of tasted/felt like Christmas meringues. So, after pounding the entire package in the time it took the other girls to choose a treat, I started feeling... weird.

Weird is the only explanation. Approximately 1 hour later, I told my mom that I felt like I was on a delay. Meaning, I would lift my arm and then, a few seconds later, it felt like I lifted my arm. You get my drift. My mother (and everyone there that day) would still swear I had lost my mind. My mom even said, "um, really? You feel like you're on a delay after eating space food? Convenient." I'll tell you one thing. Its not "popular" to have an allergic reaction to Space Food moments before reboarding a diesel bus headed north. I promise you, blog friends, I felt... spacey.

It is with EXTREME joy that I will tell you what jogged these epic memories just now. I will start by sharing that one of my nearest and dearest (Hilda boo) is sick and laid up on her couch. Her companion is endless hours of 30 Rock (except when her hubs is home. Then the both of them watch it.) Tonight, I got home from work and decided that was just what I needed... some 30 Rock (as well as a delicious fish taco and glass of stale red wine.) I turned on my favorite season (four... obviously) and started smiling as episode 3 started. The following statement has neither been made up or exaggerated, y'all.

Liz ate space ice cream!!

She tells Jack she left her retainer at the museum when she took it out to eat SPACE ICE CREAM and needs him to get the retainer for her. The fact that the sentence I just wrote feels normal means that I am a little "off."

But y'all...I'm kind of freaking out. I knew I identified with want to be LOVE Liz Lemon!!

xo,
k 

On fear.

Sometimes I'll be minding my own business and fear will absolutely grip me. Like the other day when I remembered I gave my dad a skydiving adventure for Christmas this year. That seemed awesome in December. Now, May seems to be creeping closer and closer and it occurs to me... we are going to jump out of a plane. But don't worry. I was already told to wear a long sleeve shirt so my arms don't flap on the video that I will show to anyone who will watch... until the end of time. So we're good.

In all seriousness, there have been times in my life where I actually pursue the scary things. No, I don't (only) mean the time I tried cheese for my 30th birthday (but it was scary.) I'm talking about the motorcycle riding kinda stuff. Really, moving to a new town knowing only my sister was scary in a way. There's something lovely about feeling that alive, right?

Well, for your reading pleasure, I have two (potentially) humiliating stories to tell about fear... and I wish I were more embarrassed by them. In chronological order:

(1) The time I played a solo on my xylophone.

Seriously. The year was 1994 and I was a xylo novice. I was only one year in with the marching Greenwave, y'all. So, at the first game of the season (against Walterboro...sometimes my memory freaks me out) someone yelled the words that got my blood propelling through my veins. "Wipeout." Now, you need to know that Jay-the-Wonder-Senior had been the only one to play it at games before then. People would lose. their. minds. It was like we were all instantly transported to a party in the Caribbean with tiki torches. Absolute mayhem. Every band member (we were an excitable crew of 300ish) would abandon their instrument and start to cut a serious rug. Jay played "Wipeout" better than the Surfaris. Jay could handle the attention and smile and woo every girl in the process. He was a xylophone phenom. I was... a sophomore in a wool uniform in August. But I had heart. I... tried.

I remember hearing the snare drummer count off the beginning of the song with his drum sticks. Then, I vaguely remember shaking so violently from my nerves that my legs literally buckled underneath me. I didn't fall but I don't know how. I am fairly sure I got approximately 2 stanzas of the song out and then stopped playing. I pretended the drums could take it from there. It didn't work. For weeks afterward, I would daydream about playing it perfectly, cute trumpet-playing boys would wink at me and I would rise to Nerd Royalty. Instead, I took my position as "one of the twins" that had, arguably, a little too much energy at all times. I don't recall Kristin being thrilled about all of it but I could be wrong.

2. The time I met my pretend boyfriend's parents.

So, in college, I sort of dated this boy (and, by that, I mean I thought we were and he did not think we were dating.) We spent a few months hanging out so, when his folks were coming all the way from Texas to SC, it seemed only natural to meet them. Right? In the college cafeteria? Sure.

What I remember is a blur of total mind numbing anxiety... so much so that, hand to God-  I actually lost my vision. I am not even joking. I couldn't hear anything anyone was saying because I could only hear my heartbeat in my ears... over meeting the parents of a boy I wasn't even dating. YOU GUYS. It was only made worse when they called me the wrong name and promptly fell in love with my roommate and, no doubt, recommended the boy date her instead. I get it though. She was/is fabulous. Don't worry, things with this boy only got much more embarrassing down the road. Shockingly, things didn't work out...weird.

I wish, when listing things I am afraid of, I had the sense to include "embarrassing myself."

I did something last night that totally scared me. I wrote a song with my friend Cliff. We rocked out a tune in 2 hours and, from what I'm told, that's pretty quick. It needs some tweaks but I'm telling you what... SO FUN! I'm not a song writer, friends. Well, I guess I can't say that anymore. Anyway, I was totally nervous and it turned out to be a great tune. We will... wait for it... be PERFORMING said song at the Emma Talent Show this year. Which means.... stay tuned for the next story of humiliation. Its not "if"... its "when."

One thing I'm not afraid of is enjoying an annual green beer (Erin Go Bragh). Or staying up late to watch Tiger Woods on Jimmy Fallon or walking up early so I can get a jump on the work day. Night night!

xo.

On celebrating.

I'm not one to pass down an invitation to party, y'all. (can you hear Brittney saying that?)

If it is one thing my people and I do in Nashville is celebrate. We celebrate job promotions, birthdays, engagements, holidays, new puppies, more birthdays, weddings, good hair days, babies, Fridays.... life. Our celebrating usually consists of little more than being together and that is the beauty of it. I have had so many fun moments of happy disbelief with these people.

This week brought two opportunities for celebration: Valentine's and a birthday.

Now, you may be wondering if there is a reason why I was celebrating Valentine's and my answer is: because it is awesome. Hallmark can make up a holiday for me any day. A day I get to drop $2.99 at Walgreens on a box of Princess Valentines (that came with pencils) and give them to my co-workers? Sign me up. This year I got actual valentines in the mail. THE MAIL. To my delight, dad sent me three (guess I'm the favorite.) I'm not sure what is more fun.

Oh wait.

YES I do.

Dancing in the kitchen for three hours.

So, let me back up. I was invited to a dinner party to celebrate the most lovely of days. The girls cooked (and by that, I mean Laura and Meghan... I only chopped things.) With great music playing we all moved around the kitchen singing and gearing up for what was an AMAZING meal. (Every boy should want to marry Laura for this salmon.) We feasted on delicious food and libations. We sat around a table and laughed hysterically. We told story after story after story (you know I was in heaven.) It was simply a wonderful evening. Right around the time came for cleaning (coincidence?) the kitchen, it occurred to us that 3 girls and 3 guys cannot be wasting their time cleaning... we had a rug to cut. And that we did.... for so long that my feet still hurt the next morning.

The gents treated us to a dreamy Valentine's celebration that led squarely into Matt's birthday just a few evenings later. Well, in an effort to show off our varied partying skills, that party turned into a bit of a jam. There was a handful of stringed instruments and, much to all of our surprise delight, a handful of Deana Carter covers. Sure, we mixed with with Bonnie Raitt and even a sprinkling of the birthday boy's tunes. That happened on a porch with what felt like a beautiful Spring evening. (Shout out to Punxsatawney Phil, by the way. Thanks for doing us a solid!!) Here's a bit of how it went down before we headed outside where it was dark:

Listen. I'll say it. This week* has done my heart good. 

love.

k

*and my brand new iphone that is single-handedly making (and stealing) my day. AND the gorgeous weather that seems to have taken Nashville by the hem and shaken her out to freshen things up.

On Tour Guiding.

Did I ever tell you I drove a horse-drawn carriage through historic Charleston, SC the fall of 2001?

I mean, we'll never know because I am sure not spending the hours it would take to go back and label/tag all the posts of the last few years. So, now is as good a time as any to tell you all about it.

I'll start by letting you know I had just graduated college and knew I would be headed to Bolivia in January so I needed a job to keep my hyperactivity in check (that's code for Kirkers work. They don't get to freeload off their parents while wearing pajamas til 2pm and hitting the beach. At least not exclusively.) It ended up being a four month endeavor. It was chock full of life long memories, y'all.

For starters, every single morning I worked, Diddy would wake up and make me a smoothie and see me off. What a stud. Let's face it, he'd already been up for 4 hours, had gone for a walk and was "that guy" who watered the lawn as the sun came up. The Lowcountry can be brutal to attempts to keep a lawn green, in case you didn't know. So, Dad would see me off and I would drive 25 minutes to the Battery (White Point Gardens, if we're getting specific about tours. Geez.) where I would park for the day for free. Unlike the days I was running late and would pay the crazy fees to park on Market Street. Whateves, I preferred the Battery because I would get a good walk in as well as a 15 minutes convo with Kristin. It ruled.

I would arrive and get all set up with my walkie talkie (where I was super awesome at saying "10-4" so much that I would say it on the phone with friends.) I would help get our Belgian draft horses all suited up in their gear for the day and queue them up in line with the others so we could start schlepping tourists all over God's green earth. Here's the thing- giving a tour in Charleston is big business. Not only because it costs is worth so freaking much but because of how complicated it all is. It is a science. They leave nothing to chance and absolutely every thing is regulated. I was more proud of getting my temporary tour guide license than I was my Bachelor's Degree.

The peninsula of Charleston is so beautiful and there's a huge portion of it that is tour zone. The powers that be have it split into a series of routes. No one knows which route they'll be headed on until the moment it begins. That's because there is an old-school bingo machine (manned by the coolest ladies you'll ever meet) that randomly selects (a lottery, if you will) the route. This keeps things fair and square as well as evenly distributed. I mean, its probably hard to get to work in the morning if you're behind 8 carriages. Most companies (there are like 5, I think) use horses and one uses mules. There is seriously nothing more funny than watching a college student drive mules through a busy street.

That reminds me of Joker. He was one of our horses who was panicky. He was used to being on a farm and straight up tweaked every time he saw a white truck. Now, I may have just had bad luck EVERY single time I drove with him but for reals- he would get up on the sidewalk. I would have to (somewhat casually, so as to not spook my patrons from tipping handsomely) whip the side of him that was getting off course. (PETA- save it. I don't do it any more OK? Also, he loved me for it. He'd tell the other horses he fell down the stairs. Again.) I had to do it because 15 human lives were at stake.. INCLUDING MINE. Don't play.

Joker's brother Otis (at least I think it was Otis... go with it) once did something completely awesome. I remember every detail of this particular morning. I was wearing my brand new Danskos and was, therefore, anticipating a day of my feet not hating life whilst standing all day. So, I walked in to work and could instantly tell something was up. None of the horses were out and there was debris everywhere. During the night, Otis had staged a coup. He managed to free himself of his stall (still a mystery) and promptly knocked over the barrel of feed... so he could share. All the horses ate so much (similar to me, they don't have a "full" switch. They will continue eating until their stomachs explode, basically. Woof.) their joints got stiff from all the fiber. They were practically rigor mortis by morning. The totally best part? They horsie partied all night long because Otis managed to chew the seat off my boss's bicycle (that he micromanaged us from) and then poop on the reins. Its as if he knew they'd be leading him around in the heat all day. He wasn't having it. I have never been more proud of an animal.

Every day, I dropped cheezy tip-inducing/ guilt churning lines to make dollars. I'm not totally proud but mama had to make it worth her time, OK? I had no shame.

I could, honestly, tell you one hundred more stories about being a tour guide. (Like the experience of listening to the tragedy of 9/11 unfold while working or the time the last living, original cast member of "Gone With the Wind" served us cookies.) Let's do that in Charleston. I'll show you around the city. I'm still amazed how much I have retained. Chelsea was wow-ed and we both grew up there, so that has to count for something.

Sometimes, I feel my heart drawing me back to that beautiful port city. THANK GOODNESS Southwest will start flying directly there from Nashville next month.

It. Is. On.

I will say this- I have no career in tour guiding in my future but I am wildly glad I did it during that funny season of post-graduate...ness. It was incredible and has provided me with a lifetime of fodder for my favorite things... stories.


xo,
k

By the by...

... I totally drink sodas again.

I made it a month, though, right? Well, almost a month.

I HAD TO.

ok?

xo,
me

ps. stories galore coming your way.

on care.

This will seem incredibly cryptic and, for that, I am sorry. Just believe me when I say that, this weekend, I am exceedingly grateful for:

- friends (seems not nearly significant enough a word as it just sits here. still...)
- family.
- mid 60 degree weather (as if a necessary foreshadow of Spring!)
- The Social Network (and all movies, really.)
- iced strawberry pop tarts
- tulips
- a timely catch up phone call
- a great book.

AND CAFFEINE.

I am a uncomfortable care-receiver. These friends have refused that and met my need head on. I am, simply, grateful.

xo,
k

* I will expound later, lovelies. I assure you.

creature comforts from my sunday.

 ok- in fairness, this was from Thursday night dinner. Katie and Beth made me the most delicious feast and this was part of it. Grapefruit, lime and avocado salad. Hallelujah and amen.

 Trader Joes hooked a girl up with some grapefruits. They make me happy in that blue bowl .

 Tell me how I can wake up in a bad mood if there's a tiny yellow rose bush bidding me good morning.

Seemingly out-of-season hydrangeas, good books and a telephone that connects me to my sister. CHECK!

Alright, week. Do your best. I'm rested and ready for you. 

xo,

k

**my apologies for the horrendous lighting. I need to figure out a way for the "no flash" to be flooded with a little more light. Gonna play with the Lumix tonight and figure it out. **

Guest blogger

So, last night I sat on my couch. I was surrounded by some fun(ny) friends and said, "what should I blog about?" One friend decided he would blog for me. There is no explanation. I just have to let you read it. It is unedited and here you have it. Ladies and gentlemen... Adam Duncan:

Ok, peeps.  I totally preesh having a guest blog on my blog.  For the first time ever, I have invited a dear friend to blog on my behalf.  He has a list of things that people shouldn't like, and he is going to blog that list with us.  His name is Adam Duncan...he is totally into guest blogging because he doesn't have a blog of his own...and the square root of 69 is 8 something. 

Please, don't like these things:

1.) Chewing with your mouth open.  Its kinna gross and makes funny noises.

2.) Introducing yourself to someone...for the fifth time.  Please, just fake it.

3.) Timid drivers...especially the ones that come to a complete stop on the entrance ramp to the interstate.

4.) Abbrevs.

Ok, I'm changing this list up a bit.  Its going to be finished with things a depressed doctor may say to himself while trying to fall asleep at night.

5.) "Does my occupation fulfill me?"

6.) "Do I really help people?"

7.) "If I died tonight, would anybody notice?" (answer: yes, tons of people would notice)

Sorry...I need to make another change of direction with this thing.  The list will (seriously) be finished up with "Phrases that tickle the eardrum".

8.) The eel eerily trickled down the slithery slide to fulfill his destiny of laying waste to the Far East.

9.) Thirty Helens agree: Jiggle it a little it'll open.

10.) Skin falls and babies crawl or felines eat the cheese.

Thank you for your time.  Preesh.

Kelley and Adam

Thirty Helens, huh? Love it. :)

Guest blogger-ship may be the way to go. Now, I just have to get Jackie to write the next one. 

Have a great Thursday, y'all!

a small veer.

I kind of miss just telling you things. However strange and disjointed. I love telling stories but, let's face it, sometimes I want to tell you the regular stuff.

Like:

• That I had really delicious sushi from Harris Teeter last night. Like, notably good.
• That I went back on my principles and WATCHED AN HOUR OF THE BACHELOR*
• That I have some really great friends that feel like family.
• That I got to teach my co-workers a seminar on de-cluttering and it was incredibly fun!
• That I have been reading, y'all! (1.5 books down... so, not quite the 1 a week I hoped for but a LOT better than before.)
• That I am going on two legit vacations this year! (any moms out there have full clearance to roll your eyes at the notion of a vacation from work only... but hey, I'm pumped! For the first year in a WHILE, I am taking trips instead of just doing wedding tours of the USA.)
• That I have the sweetest sister the world has ever known. Trust me.
• That good things happening to my family members can get me through a long winter.
• That school-aged Nashville children had yet to go to school this year, basically, until today. Mothers everywhere spewed non fat/ sugar free chai lattes in every Starbucks in Davidson County BECAUSE THEY COULD. No more snow to keep those kiddos at home for another minute.

 I will bring a story to you soon. Cooking up a few.

kisses,
Kelley

*I didn't set out to do it. It was more like "I'm at my friends' house and its on and I'm totally interested because I remember this dill weed the first time around. PLUS THERE ARE FANGS involved. I didn't watch the whole thing but I have a feeling I will next week. GREAT. I have only one thought... is Seal's appearance on last night's episode the musical equivalent of the "Hawaii Trip" for sitcoms that are fading?

On temperance.

I did it.

I dared myself to go the year of 2010 without alcohol and I did it.

Seriously, when I am totally honest, I want to be known as someone who does what she says she'll do. That really may be what this was all about. I can't remember a time I stuck to a New Years Resolution before. But seriously, 2009's goal was to "kiss more", so I think I went for "more challenge" and "less fun"... worth it. 

Let's recap by visiting some of the "Frequently Asked Questions" of my adventure:

1. Why did you do that?
I spent a lot of time in the car at Christmas time of 2009 with a broken ipod. I started thinking about things I could dare myself to do- the harder the better. It was down to a few tough ones and it won.

2. Was it terrible?
Hardly. January and December were the longest but it was not hard. I don't know if I just became possessed with wanting it or what. Seriously, I stopped thinking about it and it was no biggie. Sure, I missed a lot of social events but I can't think of them now. The year flew by like a breath.

3. But, didn't you go to, like, a bajillion weddings?
I did. Last year was only rivaled by 2007. I love weddings and I love celebrating dear ones. Here's the thing... I'm just as much of a spaz with or without alcohol, y'all.

4. Are you going to drink now?
Yes. I had a drink with Anna and Jordan at Patterson House to celebrate. It is a great speakeasy that opened over a year ago- I just never bothered to go. Obviously. So, it was fun to go enjoy the ambiance and congratulate myself for a year of discipline.

5. What were the health benefits?
Well, none that I can tell. There likely were some. Still, I don't know what they are. I didn't lose weight- I actually gained. Turns out, if you eat while people drink, it will catch up with you. Weird.

6. Did you save tons of money?
I am sure I did. I don't know exactly how much but I know I did. I ended up having to treat myself to some medical stuffs, so I don't have a total. Just trust me. It rules.

7. What's next?
No Soda in 2011. I predict this will be harder. But I will say... I am three days in and haven't been tempted yet, so maybe it will be easier than I think. Fingers crossed.

So, I basically learned that I am a beast when I set my mind to something. I feel quite sure it was a training season for me. I sense that I will be drawing on that accomplishment/dedication in the future. Here's to another year of stretching myself... be it blind dates or skydiving, organic eating or learning to samba. I am up to it. Just watch me.

What are you going to try?

xo,
Kelley