2010

Here we go. It's time for the New Year's resolution list to go up on the blog. That makes it sound like I have done one before, but no, I haven't. I am hoping that it will keep me accountable to those two of you who might read my blog.

1) Run a half marathon.

- Have started a run log and team named NO EXCUSES with other friends to keep me accountable.

2) Read the Bible in a year.

-Have RE-signed up for an internet Bible reading plan. I get the e-mails daily.

3) Master the art of French Cooking

-Inspired (sadly) by the movie Julie and Julia, I have purchased this book and hope to learn how to prepare meals with out using recipes. This book is meant to give you that education.

4) Journal

-I used to do this ALL the time. EVERYDAY. It was mainly prayers and bible study times...I am excited to get back to this tool.

5) Read 4 books

- Not sure yet which ones- but John got a Kindle and I want one too (I think.) I have to prove that I would use it! My motivation should be to EXPAND MY HORIZONS but really I just think the gadget is cool.

And of course the usual:

6) Watch what I feed my family and myself

7) Lose a Gazillion Pounds.

Okay, what are your resolutions?

Christmas Time

Tonight is Christmas Eve. John and I are just hanging out at the house, just the two of us. I am wondering how many times I can watch "The Santa Clause" (1-3) with out going crazy. Not yet, folks!

Traditionally, (3rd year now) we watch HOLIDAY INN.

Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, I think, equal warm, cozy, holiday feelings.

Tonight, I am preparing for our Christmas dinner. John is smoking a turkey and brisket. I am making my mom's green bean casserole, broccoli cheese casserole, mash potatoes (already made from Thanksgiving and frozen), grandma's salad, and rolls. Then, for the first time ever... I am attempting to make traditional Bread Pudding. YEA!!

Of course Christmas is clearly not about Trees (which we decorated) or lights on the House (which we put up) or lots of food ( which we continue to eat) or even gifts (which we love to give and of course get).

Jesus Christ, born of the virgin Mary, to take away the sins of the world.. this is why anyone should celebrate Christmas. I think it is interesting that non Christians celebrate Christmas. Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus. I wonder what the world thinks about when Christmas day comes and goes? I am very guilty of getting "wrapped" up with the holiday....um , spirit. Tonight, John and I will listen to a Christmas Sermon, enjoy Holiday Inn, and snuggle up with our two sweet puppy dogs. These things are not wrong, but my prayer for my family is that we continue to celebrate the Truth throughout the year. He came to take the wrath of God, which the Bible says that I was born an object of, away from me so that I can enjoy Him and His glory everyday. He came because he Loved His creation. Christ was born and Christmas will forever be known as the day God came to be with the World. Immanuel, God with Us.

Here is a great story with a Christmas Twist. The Innkeeper. Enjoy and Merry CHRISTMAS!

COOK

Today I cooked 2 orders of bacon and eggs, An order of Pancakes with sliced fruit, fresh guacamole and salsa, and a potato sand which with tomato and basil salad. Yes, I was busy.. and I even got a gold medal for my eggs!

OKAY.. today I got to open an early Christmas gift from John..

Cook or be Cooked from Wii!

It was super fun. Okay, that's all. More to come.

The New Addition

He has arrived. Our second puppy is finally here! His name is Radar and he is already is showing his personality. He is very different from Diesel. Diesel was shy and would run to someone when anything came towards him... like another dog or if he heard a loud noise. Radar, however, is already showing signs of playfulness and boldness. Diesel enjoyed a his cuddle time but wanted to be out exploring everything. Radar loves to just fall asleep in your arms.... in his crate.. or just in mid walk! Super cute! Here are some comparison pictures. These are Radar at 6 weeks and Diesel at 5 and 7 weeks. I think Radar will be smaller! Can you tell who is who?

Arts and Crafts

I made this today. No where on my "TO DO" list was and item that remotely looked liked - Home Made Marshmallow Wreath.

It is quite amazing the lengths I will take to not do what is actually on my "To Do" list.

1. Organize Office (for the 3rd time)

2. Organize Guest room

3. Clean off Kitchen table

4. Grocery Store

Now in all fairness, I did go to the grocery store, but I did not purchase the items needed to support my family. I bought 10 bags of marshmallows.. oh yea, and sour cream for the soup we ate tonight.

I think it was in the stars tonight for me to buy marshmallows-- Kroger had them on sale for 10/1.00!!!!

So if you ever find yourself with a "To Do" list that should be done because you have people coming over the next day that you have never met and they will be using your house to watch their small child and it really should be clean.... just think......."What can I make that I saw in a magazine once?"

Hello?

Wow! So much has gone on since.... WHAT????.. JULY!!!! Where have I been? I think Facebook has ruined my blogging world. Why blog about what has been going on when I can update my status and let you know that "my teeth are freshly brushed," or "AHH! traffic was bad today!" or my favorite, "just woke up..."

Why does the world need to know that? More importantly, why am I rushing over to the computer right after I have opened my eyes to let the world know?

Point being, I am going to start blogging again..... at least right now I am.

Since July, I have completed my 3rd Triathlon, refinished our dining room table (maybe not a big deal to anyone out there, but it might just be blogged about!), competed in So You Think You Can Dance, and have traveled to Texas 3 times.

December will prove to be a very bloggable month.

First, we are getting our second puppy, RADAR, on the 19th. Same as Diesel boy but a different mama.

Before that happens though, JJ Heller and her husband Dave are coming up to Lexington to sing at our Christmas party! We are super pumped and totally honored they are doing this!

Okay, so coming soon.. BLOGS, BLOGS, BLOGS!