The Life of Bee

RIP Whitney

2012-02-11T21:28:00.002-05:00

If you're as connected to the interweb as so many of us are these days I'm sure by now you know that Whitney Houston has passed away. While I can't say I'm surprised, I am still shocked and absolutely heartbroken. I grew up with Whitney and remember rocking out to the Whitney Houston album on the record player while dancing in our living room.

With any big pop culture news, the jokes have been flowing freely. By far the worst joke I have seen is in regards to her drug addictions. I am the first to say that celebrities put themselves in a position for jokes and ridicules but when it comes to death? That is just low.

It is so easy to forget that celebrities are people too but, indeed, they really are no different than you or I. While they make more money than most of us will ever see in our lives and they are looked upon and adored or hated by the masses, they put their pants on the same way we do (though sometimes they do have hired help to do that for them), their shit stinks, they have family and friends they love and that love them as well as those they fight with. They go through moments of struggle and self-doubt as well as moments of pure joy and happiness.

As for me, other than my mini rant, I have nothing to say. I am heartbroken. Whitney was such a huge part of my childhood but more importantly my heart breaks when anyone passes at such a young age.

What's Been On The Ol' Boob Tube

2012-02-09T18:40:00.000-05:00

I like TV. There's no doubt about that. Often times I feel overwhelmed by the amount of shows I want to watch/keep up with. These are a few of my new favorite standouts:

I watched The River for the first time today and I was so creeped out, in the best way possible. I've also been watching Alcatraz. The River is kind of crazy in that I have no idea what's going on and Alcatraz has some crazy shizz going on as well. Jorge Garcia stars in Alcatraz so between the two shows I feel like I get a little bit of a Lost (RIP) fix.

Again, a brand new show but I like what I've seen from the first episode.

This isn't THAT new, as in it's been on since the fall. I love it! It's so funny and I have the biggest girl crush on Zooey.

And here are some other regulars on my DVR:

I feel like Hart of Dixie isn't that great and it's really hokey and cheesy but I've really enjoyed it. I haven't kept up on it but I have the episodes saved for a rainy (hopefully snowy) day.

What are you guys watching?

Photos all found via Google Images

Gratitude

2012-02-06T00:18:00.003-05:00

It is midnight and I am wide awake. This will be no good at 5 AM when my alarm goes off but for now I am enjoying watching videos on my new website obsession and reading up on my new life obsession.

I have a habit of going through phases where I find random things on Facebook and like them and anything connected to them obsessively. This last phase included liking Daily Good, My Life Yoga, Positive News, and KarmaTube. Especially KarmaTube. I seriously encourage anyone and everyone to check out not only their Facebook page but their website as well. It is heartwarming and inspiring. It makes me want to jump up and go out to change the world. This will never happen but in the videos I watch I realize more and more the importance of stopping to slow down and appreciate the world around me. These are my two favorite videos of the night:

Video from KarmaTube

Video from KarmaTube

I foresee me sharing many videos in the future. I hope you appreciate them. :-)

While browsing videos the other day I came across a video entitled 365Grateful. There is a website connected to it, so please check it out here.

I have to tell you, I started my account with Blogger a few years back (before this blog was ever a thought) to do a Project 365. I lasted a while but like many things I start, I never finished. This has inspired me to take another stab at it, focusing on all the good in my life.

I wanted to share these great finds with you guys and hope that you will also feel as inspired as I do right now!

I feel like a positive outlook and a grateful heart are the best way to start a fresh week.

WW Weigh In Week 4 and 5

2012-02-05T17:31:00.000-05:00

I've been bad. Again. My room is a mess, my desk is unorganized, and I haven't been bloggingg. However, I'm still moving along in my Weight Watchers journey.

Week 4
Weekly Weight Loss: 1 lb.
Total Weight Loss: 12 lbs.

Week 5
Weekly Weight Loss: 3 lbs.
Total Weight Loss: 15 lbs.

I've been trying to be very active on the Weight Watchers website. I don't just mean tracking my food and activity but getting on every couple of days and reading message boards, reading blogs, and participating in challenges and groups. One of the groups I joined was a group to lose 15 lbs. by St. Paddy's Day. I've met that goal and am hoping to be 20 lbs. down by March 17th!

I've been really good at keeping up with the Couch to 5K app I downloaded on my iPod. I've been running every other day (ever 2 days max) and finished week 5 day 1 this morning. I have two 5Ks I plan on running in the upcoming months. A St. Paddy's Day one on March 17th and another 5K in May at a local winery. Some runs are better than others but I'm feeling that my legs are going longer and longer without feeling like lead.

Did anyone make a NYE resolution to lose weight/get fit/get healthy? If so, how are you doing now that we're into February?

Weight Watcher Weigh In Week 3

2012-01-22T20:24:00.002-05:00

Weekly Weight Loss: 4 lbs.
Total Weight Loss: 11 lbs.

The WW website yelled at me. They said I lost too much weight. I said 'Mehhhhh'. I had a much better week food wise and with tracking. There were some days I dipped into my weekly allowance and there were a few days that I still had 3 points left at the end of the night. I am also taking into account (aside from working out almost every day) I have a job that has me chasing babies around all day so I am on my feet 95% of my day.

I had been doing the Biggest Loser's 30-Day Jumpstart and made it halfway though week 3 when I realized I couldn't do it anymore. I know I did a brief write up on this DVD but I had only done the workout once. After 2 and a half weeks, I was done. There are 5 workouts, 10 minutes each. (Two cardios, upper body, lower body, and abs) You can either do a workout individually or you can follow the 30-day program. I decided to do the 30-day program. Unlike the other Biggest Loser DVDs this is led by past BL contestants; Tara, Sione, and Ali. You can absolutely tell these guys aren't professionals and I don't think there was much editing done. They say awkward things, Ali constantly says 'OK, and...' making you think you're going on to the next thing and then you don't (I felt like I was constantly stopping and starting and waiting), and you can see them get flustered when they make a minor mistake in dialogue. I'll absolutely use this DVD if I need to get a quick workout in but I doubt I'll ever follow the 30-days again. I think that this week I'll use the upper body, lower body, and abs on days that I don't run.

Yes...I'm back to running. At this time last year I decided to give a Couch to 5K program a whirl. I made it to week 5 on the treadmill at the gym and then kind of fell off the bandwagon. I am back to trying but this time sans gym membership and without a treadmill. I just started week 3 and had to bring my run indoors, thanks to my cousins treadmill (we got snow yesterday and it was way too icy to run outside). It's been tough and definitely different from running on a treadmill but I figure it will prepare me better to do an actual run. I'm working on a fitness bucket list as we speak. :-)

Baking Fail: Pumpkin Nutella Bread

2012-01-21T13:32:00.003-05:00

I attempted this way back in November. I figure now is a good time to update ya'll on some of the things I've been baking and cooking, or failing horribly at.

I saw this on Pinterest (obvis) and it looked AMAZING. I love pumpkin bread and I love Nutella. So this was obviously perrrr-fect. Until I made it.

It all started out well:

And after I baked it, it looked pretty decent:

But then....then...this happened:

I have no idea what happened. I think maybe my love of Nutella got in the way and I used way too much. I'm not sure if there was just too much melted Nutella goodieness or if it was legit under cooked. Whatevs, it wasn't pretty and it was more of pumpkin/chocolate/hazelnut soup inside a crust. But, I'll admit it was kind of yummy. Until my mom decided to throw it out.

Not sure I'll make this again but I know it won't be my last attempt at backing with Nutella.

Friday Favorites - Rando Schmando

2012-01-20T21:35:00.002-05:00

Just a few things that I'm really fond of lately:

My mom had one of these (Sweet Mint) and I became OBSESSED. The packaging is super cute and I love the way my lips feel. I bought myself the SPF 15 Lemon Drop and I'm not crazy about the way it made my lips feel but it smells great.

Have I posted about this? I used it a couple of months ago and finally bought my own bottle a couple weeks ago. I use it all the time (when I actually put makeup on) and I'm not worried about using it despite the $28 price tag because the tiniest drop is all you need.

I love Black Beans. I definitely need to start cooking with them more often. I made Tex-Mex style sloppy joes and they called for black bean and corn salsa so I made my own with some jar salsa, corn, and black beans. Yum! I'm planning on making black bean brownies tomorrow. Low-fat and only 4 WW points a brownie.

I tried this last week, it is so ymmy. My mom bought it tonight and I wasted no time busting it open.

So much fun! I've only done it once but I plan on doing a long class tomorrow morning. It makes me pumped to try out a real class.

Have a great weekend ya'll! Hope it's filled with some of your favorite things.

Target Tuesday: Activewear

2012-01-17T20:53:00.002-05:00

Today I'm linking up with Tara at Fabulous But Evil for Target Tuesday.

I'm trying not to get too weight lossey up in here (despite the fact I've only posted my WW weigh ins lately) but this week's Target Tuesday is all about workout gear. I know I said I was going to try to go through 2012 without buying new clothes but I may need to make another exception for some new running clothes!

Weight Watchers Check In #2

2012-01-15T21:58:00.001-05:00

Weekly weight loss: 1 lb.
Total weight loss: 7 lbs.

I had to weigh myself twice this morning and the 1 lb. is from my second weight check. I always weigh in on Sunday mornings shortly after I wake up (before I eat or workout but after I pee). By the time I went to put my number in the Weight Watcher website I couldn't remember if the numbers were -7.5 (which would have been neither a gain or loss) or -5.7 (which would have been a 2 lb loss) so I weighed myself again and got -6.5 (a 1 lb loss) and decided to keep that.

My week was "eh" and I think the scale reflected that. Last Sunday I went down to a friends and we ordered food and I went against better judgement and ordered a buffalo chicken cheesesteak and fries. I ate half the cheesesteak, all of the fries, some jalapeno poppers, and some pizza rolls. Oh and don't forget two glasses of wine. BUT I did track it all. The rest of the week was fine, I tracked and ate well and worked out. It's been downhill since Friday night though. I went to a Thirty-One demonstration at my cousins and started out well but then I overate and stopped tracking. I was back at it yesterday but then gave in to all my cravings last night. And today was similar.

I've given myself the weekend without beating myself up but I will be up tomorrow morning for my run and right back at it. I will track everything, good and bad, and definitely focus on the good.

I've also been really bad at posting and reading so that's another goal for the week.

Happy Sunday! Have a great week, ya'll.

Weight Watchers Check-In Numero Uno

2012-01-09T23:14:00.000-05:00

I told myself I would be better about blogging and keeping up with my Google Reader this year. So far that's been one, big fail. But for good reason. I feel like my life is right out of Groundhogs Day. I wake up, go to work, come home, take the dog for a walk, eat dinner, work out, shower, rinse, and repeat.

Yesterday was my first weigh in since re-joining Weight Watchers and I was down 6 lbs! 6 lbs that I promptly put right back on last night when I ate some pizza rolls, half a buffalo chicken cheesesteak, some poppers, and french fries. Oh, and throw in two glasses of wine. But it's OK because today was a new day and I was right back on track.

It's A New Page, A New Year!

2012-01-02T22:33:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone had a fun, fun, fun New Years Eve! Mine was spent with family and friends and it was so much fun. By far the best way to spend it. Way better than fighting to get a drink at a crowded bar.

As we begin 2012, so many of us are busy planning new year resolutions. I feel like people either enjoy making resolutions or loathe them. I'm somewhere in between. I love the feeling that a new year can be a brand new chapter in life yet at the same time I feel that everyday should be looked at as a fresh start.

I have a lot of hope for 2012. I hope that this is the year I go back to school and am that much closer to my teaching certification. I've come up with a few things that I would like to work on and challenge myself this year. You can call them resolutions, you don't have to, whatever.

I've decided to go back to Weight Watchers. In 2009, I lost 30 lbs. in 3 months and was going strong until about Easter and it's been downhill from there. I'm excited to get back to it and document my journey here!

I am also challenging myself to not buy new clothes in 2012.

I've been thinking about this for the past couple of weeks and I wanted to wait to blog about it. I have so many clothes and so many of them are unworn. It's time to change that! And it will be far more economical. My only exception to this is underwear. Because, come on, everyone needs underwear and no one in their right mind would buy another persons!

Now what happens if I am successful in my weight loss journey? I will say hello to Goodwill and consignment shops.

Good luck to everyone as they begin any new journeys in the new year.

'Tis The Season Is Winding Down

2011-12-31T10:20:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a happy and healthy Christmas and/or Hanukkah! And Kwanzaa as well. It seems like the holidays always sneak up on me and as quick as they approach they are done and over with.

Every year we go to my Aunts house for Christmas Eve and do the traditional 7 Fishes. This year we changed it up a bit due to the Eagles/Cowboys game being on at 4. The fishes were all served as appetizers and our main course as served during halftime. Sushi, fried oysters and calamari, crab cakes, stuffed mushrooms (with crab), shrimp cocktail, filet for dinner, and tons of desserts! And let's not forget the wine and orangecello. Yum! I will be running for years and years to burn off Christmas Eve dinner. I made peppermint brownies (I'll be posting about these this week) and we are still eating them! I kind of made them huge but they were delicious! Since my brother and his girlfriend were heading back to celebrate Christmas Day with her family in Connecticut, we opened presents when we got home. It was a lot of fun to open presents at the stroke of midnight! (It just happened to work out that way.)

I got a new camera which I wasn't sure if anyone remembered me asking for. However, I knew I got it when the first gift I opened was a camera case from my brother! My pollyanna this year did great! She got me a calendar I wanted (Curly Girl's 2012 Calendar...I found her on a blog and fell in love! Check her out here), Janet Evanovich's Smokin' Seventeen (I think it's time I do a review on these books, they're my favorite!), and probably my most favorite gift of all:

That would be Martha Stewart's Holiday Crafts book!

Christmas tends to be much quieter these days and it was very quiet. We went to my cousins house for dinner and came home and my mom and I watched 'It's A Wonderful Life'

It's A Wonderful Life is one of my favorite movies! If I wasn't crazy, I'd watch it year round. And Jimmy Stewart was such a dream!

Today we're celebrating Christmas with my sister and her family and then celebrating New Year's Eve with neighbors who are friends but are more like family.

I can't believe 2011 is over! It was filled with a lot of ups and downs but overall 2011 was OK to me. I forgot to post a year in a review but obviously the biggest moment of 2011 for me was the passing of my "Mom-Mom". The holidays were definitely a little quieter this year. She's missed everyday!

Here is to the hope that 2012 is even better!

How Pinteresting: Christmas 2011 Edition

2011-12-21T20:20:00.002-05:00

I'm right in the middle of the craziness of getting everything together for Christmas so blogging has taken a bit of a backseat. However, I wanted to make sure The Life of Bee looked just as festive as my brain does right about now!

Source: centsationalgirl.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: organizeyourstuffnow.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: deseretbook.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: bhg.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: fleamarketstylemag.blogspot.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: bhg.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: howdoesshe.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: blogcdn.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: angelattable.blogspot.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: uncommondesignsonline.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: bhg.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: howdoesshe.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Don't forget to link up with Michelle at The Vintage Apple!

And if I don't post before...have a very merry Christmas filled with the warmth of joy, love, and lots of laughter!

It's The Holiday Season...

2011-12-15T23:52:00.002-05:00

And I have so much to do. A bad case of the lazies has also set in. This is never a good combo. However, tonight I pushed through...I've FINALLY switched over my closets. I spent the evening putting clothes away, doing a quick dust and Swifter of my room, and organizing what Christmas presents I've bought. After two cups of coffee past 7:00 (I barely touched the second...so really one and 1/4?) motivation really kicked in I seriously contemplated writing out my Christmas cards but that will wait for this weekend along with finishing up my Christmas shopping, wrapping, and baking.

Our bathroom renovations are coming along slowly but surely and they should be done by next week. The new tub and toilet are in so Mama Bee and I both agreed it's safe to put our Christmas tree up and I hope that will be done Sunday!

While most of my gifts to people are small (I'm going the DIY route on some gifts) I feel like I've put a lot of thought behind all of my gift giving (except my mom's...I feel like her gift has kind of been thrown together). However, I'm stumped as to what to get my brother-in-law and my 11 year old nephew. Any ideas?

Match.com Update: Month 4

2011-12-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

It's been a couple months since I joined Match and I'd be lying if I didn't say I was a little disappointed. While I wasn't expecting to meet someone right away and I wasn't even expecting meet someone I would form a more serious relationship with, I was expecting a little more than what I've been finding...which is nothing.

That's a bit of an exaggeration but I feel like there's been nothing but crickets on this scene. I signed up for a 6 month subscription with the 6 month guarantee (which is if you don't meet someone in 6 months you get another 6 months for free as long as you keep your profile and picture visible the entire time and you email 5 different, new people a month) and I don't feel that many people view my profile. I have several up to date pictures and my entire profile is filled out. W-T-F? I know this isn't true and I don't buy into this thought but am I that hideous my profile isn't even worth clicking on? I hate writing about myself and I've tried really hard to not make my bio the run of the mill type profile (you know...I have great friends and family! I love to try new things! I'm sooooo easy going, etc. etc. etc.) I wrote my headline as "I'm not Match.com creative" which I think is funny and it's very true. Maybe I need to hire a professional online dating profile writer.

I've gotten a few "winks" and a few emails but no one I seem to really be attracted to. And I feel like I've definitely put myself out there by winking and emailing people (for the sake of getting my 6 months free), I've had a couple send back a 'No thanks' which I respect, and I've emailed back and forth with a couple guys who seemed to have potential but then communication just stops, but overall I never hear back.

I did go on that one date, which wasn't worth posting about...it was a very nice date but nothing more than average and the spark just wasn't there for me. We were going to go on a second date and that just hasn't happened. We continue to text here and there but I don't see much of a future.

For anyone who's done this whole online dating thing? Do you have any tips or tricks? Are you in a relationship now? Did you meet that someone on a dating site or elsewhere? Dish!

Holiday Party Looks

2011-12-11T14:53:00.001-05:00

With the holidays come holiday parties! While I don't have many (coughanycough) to attend here are a few of my favorite fashion and makeup looks to rock during the holiday season:

Holiday Cheer by blane18 featuring croc bags

And my favorite part of getting dressed up...the makeup:

(All images found via Google Image search of holiday makeup looks)

How Pinteresting: Products I Love

2011-12-07T20:07:00.001-05:00

Today I'm linking up with Michelle at The Vintage Apple for How Pintersting Wednesday. Today I'm showing off some of the things I love in my 'Products I Love' board. I'll be adding them to my wish list ASAP.

Source: etsy.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: kitschyliving.tumblr.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

I need one of these...now.

Source: kegworks.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: incrediblethings.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: shop.cbssports.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

This would be perfect if it were Notre Dame and if I were pregnant.

Source: uncommongoods.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: wbshop.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: amazon.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Target Tuesday #5

2011-12-06T08:51:00.001-05:00

Today I'm linking up with Tara at fabulous but evil for Target Tuesday. Today is all about jewlery. I love Target, duh, but it is my go to store for EVERYTHING including jewelry and accessories to complete an outfit. Some is very inexpensive but all of it is very nice. My local Target renovated the store a while back and expanded their accessories department...love!

Sterling Silver White Crystal Spinner Pendant - You can get some very nice looking jewelry for a nice looking price. Especially nice when you don't have that special someone to buy you any jewelry

Dana Kellin (for Target) Green Small Stone Drop Earrings - I tend to keep my clothing style basic and add some sass with my accessories, like these earrings.

Shaky Ring - I LOVE big rings and rings that make noise? Fun!

5Pc Multi-Colr Crystals Stack Rings - I am obsessed with stacking rings lately.

Sequin Gold Ivory Pearl Shaky Brace - I probably have 5 bracelets just like this but...you can never have too many shaky bracelets, right?

Online Advent Experience

2011-12-05T23:09:00.001-05:00

On Black Friday I really only had two purchases in mind, Miss Piggy (don't ask) and an Advent Calendar. I love Advent Calendars. They remind me of being a kid, I always enjoyed the little saying or to-do and the chocolate wasn't half bad either. Unfortunately, I was unsuccessful in both of my purchases. However, one night last week I found a website with an online surprise advent calendar. While it doesn't give me candy each day I like the sayings and videos and have been making sure to read if not every day, every other day.

Then tonight I was looking for something else and came upon this:

I took a little time to read and catch up on it and I am really enjoying it. It is very easy to get sidetracked with the hustle and bustle of getting ready for the secular holidays (card writing, gift shopping and wrapping, baking, parties, etc.) but this year I wanted to make sure that I took some time to slow down, reflect and pray during Advent. I think this is the perfect way to do so.

Google Reader Problems

2011-12-03T23:48:00.001-05:00

Is anyone else having a problem with blogs they are following syncing to their Google Reader? I've followed a lot of new blogs lately and they're not always showing up in Google Reader (or in my Reading List on Blogger for that matter). This afternoon they were all there as I had about 150 posts to read and when I went on tonight none of the new blogs were there! I also have one blog that while it's in my Google Reader more often than not it is not under 'Blogs I'm Following'.

Grr! Thanks in advance to anyone who might be able to help!

Nothing Says 'Happy Holidays' Like A Peeping Tom

2011-12-03T22:35:00.001-05:00

I live in small town USA. Correction, I live in historic small town USA. (Here is a good article to read if you're really interested.) One of my favorite things about this town is Christmas. I love walking Gunny at night with most of the houses lit up and there is a yearly house tour. This year my parents decided to go and I decided to tag along.

Are holiday house tours popular in other parts of the country? I got to thinking about that this afternoon when my parents decided to buy tickets to our little towns house tour. I love them. I am super nosy and love seeing how other people decorate for the holidays. (Watch for me..I'm totally the type who likes peeking in windows at night when Gunny and I walk...but not in that creepy, I'm hiding under your window sill and staring into your houses...Gunny would never let me do that. I stick to safely just looking at the houses as we walk by.)

A picture of the park during my walk with Gunny. This wasn't during the tour, I just wanted you to get an idea of how quaint we are up in here.

In the old firehouse, auditorum where they were selling house tour tickets there were trees decorated by various local organizations, schools, and business'. This was one of my favorites...it was decorated in fake money and the garland is made of money wrappers.

Santa was going to be up in the joint later in the afternoon. This was Santa's original chair and mailbox when he'd visit Roebling in the 1920's.

After we finished touring the houses we headed back to the auditorum for Hungarian Goulash. I love Goulash. We also got free hot chocolate and cookies with our tour tickets. I love both of these things as well!

These are a bit hard to see because I took them with my phone but the whole main street was lined with luminaries. So pretty!

The circle at the center of the village all lit up for the holidays!

The other side of the circle. Holiday greetings from Charles A. Roebling!

My mom and I finished our evening with some cosmos. Yum!

Going through all the decorated houses totally had me pumped to start decorating the inside of the house but then I got home and realized how tired I was. So that will wait for another day. What are some fun holiday things you guys are doing?

Friday Faves: Newsies

2011-12-02T22:23:00.001-05:00

Newsies is one of my all time favorite movies. Have you ever seen it? You should.

Courtesy: IMDB

The musical follows a group of New York newsboys ("newsies") as they ban together and strike against publishers Pulitzer and Hurst after they raise the prices of the newspapers.

Besides being an all around awesome movie, there are great songs and awesome dancing much like this:

And let us not forget a young Christian Bale:

Courtesy: Google Image

I bought the DVD on Amazon last week and got it Wednesday night. As I type this up I am watching it and loving every second of it. But that's not all...if you haven't heard the BEST news...Newsies is coming to Broadway! It was running at Paper Mill Playhouse here in Jersey during the fall and got picked up for Broadway come March for a limited time. There was a performance during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade and it made me even more excited for the show. I have a friend who saw it at Paper Mill and she said while there were a few changes in the stage adaptation, it was still great. I can't wait! Tickets go on sale January 30th but I signed up for the newsletter in hopes of being able to score tickets before that.

Courtesy: Google Images

Happy Friday!

What I've Been Thankful For

2011-12-01T23:06:00.001-05:00

This past month I've challenged myself to compile a list of something I've been thankful for each day in honor of Thanksgiving. First, let me say I think it's important to be thankful and praise God (or whatever higher being you might believe in) daily and throughout the year. I am indeed very thankful all the time but I would be lying if I didn't mention there are days and times I let negative thinking get the best of me and I forget to say a simple, silent thanks. I thought November would be a good month to stop and challenge myself to make sure I am very present in recognizing all the blessings and good things that come my way on a daily basis.

2011 ThankfulChallenge

1 – The funny things the kids in work say

2 – My dad who helps me way more than he probably should (especiallyfinancially)

3 – Having my appetite back (and being able to eat without feelingsick!)

4 – Good friends who share similar faith and beliefs (they keep mecentered and on track as well as just making me feel good)

5 – Family dinners

6 – Homemade soup on a fall day

7 – Co-workers who I can laugh and have fun with

8 – The smiles and giggles the babies give me

9 – The ability to sit down, focus, and be productive

10 – Family who are willing to help out

11 – Relaxing and quiet Friday nights

12 – Seeing friends I haven’t seen in a long time

13 – Sunday mass with really good songs

14 – The feeling of a brand new week

15 – Not going into work until 11 which means a nice relaxing morningand a chance to enjoy my coffee

16 – The Examen

17 – Bulldozing through readings for my CDA

18 – Having the opportunity to read/hear what others are thankful for

19 – Being able to witnessamazing milestones in friends and families lives

20 – Surprise parties where the guest of honor is really surprised

21 – Celebrating birthdays

22 – Special treats at work

23 – The kick off to a long, holiday weekend

24 – Hot food on the Thanksgiving table (and everyday)

25 – Friends who make me laugh

26 – A brother who will do the tough work around the house (even ifhe’s grumbling while doing it)

27 – Yummy food, good TV, and spending time with my brother

28 – Getting work done early to come home and be productive

29 – Quiet days at work

30 – Having my dad fill up my gas tank after picking my car up from theshop!

For the most part this list is more on the serious side but there are plenty of more fun, lighthearted (and downright shallow) things that make my life so much more enjoyable and that I am often very thankful for: wine, my straightener, wonderful smelling candles, leggings, comfy slippers, my DVR, funny movies/TV/books, my iPod, my phone, my laptop, my Kindle, Captain Morgan, Diet Coke, Benny's (my car...Benny the Jetta) seat warmers, wonderful smelling lotion/body spray/perfume, warm boots, good sports (which are hard to come by with the way the Eagles are playing), and coffee to name a few!

How Pinteresting: Words of Wisdom

2011-11-30T22:18:00.001-05:00

I've always been a big fan of quotes. These are some of my favorites on Pinterest!

Source: asset.soup.io via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: cookingwiths.blogspot.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: homegrownhospitality.typepad.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: peasinourpod.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: 30.media.tumblr.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: balzerdesigns.typepad.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: sequins-stripes.tumblr.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Target Tuesday #4

2011-11-29T22:47:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I've done a Target Tuesday link up but when Tara at Fabulous but Evil mentioned last week might be the last one I knew I had to step up my TT game if she continued this week. (Which obviously she has!) I am following her cue and sharing some of my favorite Target holiday decor!

Charlie Brown Tree - How cute! I love Charlie Brown.

Kneeling Santa with Baby Jesus - My mom collects Santas and has a similar one, hers is one of my favorites!

Shatterproof Tree

Stockings - I love these stockings! Very reminiscent of the Pottery Barn long thin stockings.

Bright Sequin Tree Skirt - How fun is this! I could never see myself using this but if I were still in college, that'd be a different story!

What Teachers Make

2011-11-28T23:11:00.000-05:00

Michelle at The Vintage Apple did a great post on teachers. Read that particular post here. But I loved this video/poem so much that I watched it twice, posted it on Facebook, and shared it with a friend via GChat.

Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-27T14:17:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday spent with family, friends, food, football, and a nice long weekend. This will be the first holiday season without my Mom-Mom and while we're all missing her it meant that we didn't have to host Thanksgiving so we went to my aunts. I didn't get many pictures as I am in need of a new camera but I did get a few food pictures:

We decided to forego the traditional Thanksgiving meal and eat Brudda Man's leftover MREs. (Kidding!)

My contribution to the meal...a pre-ordered Chocolate Mousse pie. My inner Martha is crying but it was delish and no work!

I'm not a usual Black Friday shopper, I just don't see the point in cutting my Thanksgiving celebrations short to stand in a line with crazy people for "deals" that really aren't deals at all. But one of my friends convinced me to go with him at midnight. Then we pushed it back to 6 AM. He picked me up at 7 and we were at Bed, Bath, & Beyond by 7 AM and we were very well prepared.

Everything one needs for a day of Black Friday shopping. Apparently, BFS can get a little romantic.

I'm not going to lie, I was extremely disappointed in the lack of crazies at 8 AM. I really was along for the ride but I did pick up some great Christmas treats.

And finally yesterday I took advantage of my brother being home and had him put the Christmas lights up.

It was absolutely gorgeous out so I did a little front yard cleanup and am going to take advantage of the great weather again today to decorate outside.

Happy Holidays!

How Pinteresting!: Thanksgiving 2011 Edition

2011-11-23T23:54:00.001-05:00

I noticed the only other How Pinteresting Wednesday I did was Halloween themed. I will certainly be doing more of these link ups and they won't even be holiday based (but probably not until the holidays are over)! Thanks to Michelle at The Vintage Apple for hosting!

Source: google.com via Kristin on Pinterest

Source: wwww.storeandstyle.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: beautyandbedlam.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: adiamondinthestuff.blogspot.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: ebay.com via Christi on Pinterest

Source: designbykelli.com via Kelli on Pinterest

Source: ourbestbites.com via Hannah on Pinterest

Source: womansday.com via Elle on Pinterest

Source: crafts.slides.kaboose.com via Beth on Pinterest

[Because to this day when my mom decorates for Thanksgiving, she still uses the centerpiece I made in pre-school]

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Please remember to take a moment out of your busy day tomorrow to really think about what you're thankful and grateful for.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Products I Love: Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

2011-11-19T00:08:00.001-05:00

Courtesy: Drugstore.com via Google Images

I wish I could tell you that I am good about following my skincare routine but I'm not. I know the importance of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing day and night but sometimes I'm just lazy. But that doesn't mean I'm not constantly looking for the best products for my skin. A while back I was looking to add a mask into my routine and found this in my local Wal*Mart.

Do you ever look at a product and have it instantly take you back to your younger years? Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque is one of those products for me (along with Maybelline Great Lash...oh the iconic green and pink tube!...and Coopertone Water Babies).

I have nothing but rave reviews for this mask! First thing first, it's super inexpensive (as much as I would love to stock my makeup case and bathroom cabinets with pricier goods....drugstore products are where it's at for me usually), I think I got it for like $3. It's the classic green looking mask that gets lighter as it dries. It has a minty scent to it hat I found to be refreshing and relaxing, it really opens your sinuses! I love that it feels as if all the gunk is being lifted out of my pores as they're tightening and after I rinse off my skin feels firm and smooth.

While I may keep looking for different masks as I like to switch things up, this is one I'll keep coming back to.

And I keep thinking I should have taken a picture of me rocking the mask last night but alas I didn't...and it probably would have been scary...so...you're welcome.

Stress Is My Middle Name

2011-11-15T08:21:00.001-05:00

It's times like this that I am reminded as to why being lazy is better than being productive.

The past two weeks have been overwhelming. I decided that the best way to celebrate my mom's upcoming 60th birthday was to throw her a surprise party and scratch my aunt's idea of throwing her a surprise lunch with just her girl cousins. This is better right...more family (including the guys) AND friends in my grandmother's little house...right? So needless to say I've been scrambling to get invitations out and decide on decor and food. Luckily many of my family is offering to bring something. Now to just get the place in order and bring serving platters, plates, utensils and store groceries over at the house without her going over there. [My grandmother's house is 4 blocks away from mine and currently up for sale. My mother has been a workhorse going through things and cleaning and her favorite "staging". To get her to not go over is going to be the biggest challenge of all. That and figuring out how to get her there the day of the party.] Oh and let us not forget that I have a wedding to attend this Saturday so I will have no time to really get ready. I love a challenge...really, I do.

I also too the Praxis this past Saturday. Only, I registered for the wrong test! Luckily it all worked out in the end and I took the right test but not without major knots in my stomach.

It's time to take a deep breath, finish my coffee, and fix my hair...looking like this is bad for anybody's health:

Courtesy: briody-fitnessnhealth.com via Google Images

What I'm Cooking: Minestrone Soup

2011-11-11T17:51:00.001-05:00

Last weekend I was craving soup. Hard. And I knew I would rest until I cooked some up so I decided that Sunday would be a great day to do so. And it was. I was in total domestic goddess mode. After church I headed to Barnes & Noble and then the grocery store to pick up what I'd need to make a pot of Minestrone Soup. Of course I had pinned the recipe (one day I'll either use a cookbook or make up my own concoction of something but until then Pinterest is where it's at) but it's originally a recipe from the blog, Skinny Taste (which I now love and will be trying more recipes from).

Source: skinnytaste.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Crock Pot Minestrone Soup
Gina's Weight Watcher Recipes
Servings: 6 • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups • Old Points: 4 • Points+: 5
Calories: 215.7 • Fat: 0.7 g • Protein: 8.7 g • Carb: 42.0 g • Fiber: 6.7 g

1/2 onion, chopped
1 cup carrots, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained, rinsed (cannellini or navy)
3 cups fat free chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarians)
1 oz chunk of good Parmesan cheese rind
1 fresh rosemary sprig
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
salt and fresh pepper
1 medium zucchini, chopped
2 cups chopped fresh or frozen (defrosted) spinach
2 cups cooked small pasta like ditalini or elbows (al dente)
extra parmesan cheese to top (extra pts)

Rinse and drain beans. Puree beans with 1 cup of the broth in a blender.

In a crock pot, combine broth, tomatoes, pureed beans, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, herbs, Parmesan cheese rind, salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Forty minutes before the soup is done cooking, add zucchini and spinach. Cover and cook 30 more minutes. Add cooked pasta, cook 10 minutes more. Remove bay leaves, rosemary sprig, parmesan rind and season to taste with salt and black pepper. Ladle soup into bowls and top with extra parmesan cheese.

Recipe from Skinny Taste via Pinterest

This is definitely a keeper! I had a bit of a brain fart in the grocery store and picked up basil instead of parsley so I used Italian seasoning instead which I think gave the soup an extra kick (and I used the basil to make roasted pepper bruchetta. I used a whole lot of parmesan cheese and while the recipe said to remove the rind of cheese you cook with the soup...it was melted by the time the soup was done! I chose whole wheat Ditali pasta as that's what we had in the house and I left the beans as they were and didn't bother to puree them. I also cooked it stove top as I didn't start the soup until later in the afternoon.


Look at all that deliciousness pre-cooking!

With a piece of fresh, crusty Italian bread this was an amazing chilly, Fall Sunday night meal. And with olives from the Shop Rite olive bar and bruchetta as an appettizer...I was one happy Italian girl!

When It Comes To Children, You Don't Just Sit Idly By

2011-11-10T20:33:00.000-05:00

As long as you haven't been living under a rock for the past week, I'm sure you have heard about the Penn State Sex Abuse Scandal. I try to keep hot button topics out of my blog, I leave that for Facebook but I have been consumed by this story and have so much to say that for the sake of everyone around me's sanity I think it's best to blog about it. If for some reason you have not heard about this case, visit the PA Attorney General's press release.

I am so disgusted and sickened by this, by what Sandusky allegedly did, the failure to report by Curley and Schultz, the failure to follow up and do more by Joe Paterno and Mike McQueary, and by the reactions and responses of so many Penn State and Joe Paterno loyalists.

Let's get this out of the way first: Why haven't Sandusky, Curley, and Schultz been the source of media scrutiny the way Paterno has? First because they don't have the name recognition but more importantly what they allegedly did is much more cut and dry. If convicted, they broke the law. The end. Joe Paterno's involvement in this scandal is not so cut and dry. Yes, he told his superior (Curley) but that was it. He fulfilled his minimum legal obligation and broke no laws. When Curley never went to authorities and nothing more was done, Joe Paterno did nothing. I can't answer as to whether he sat idly by but he most certainly did not do everything in his power to see that disgusting, deviant, and criminal behavior was reported to child protective services or the police. He had a moral obligation to uphold and he didn't do it. And I feel confident enough to say that he was probably more concerned about the reputation of a football program that he has worked for so long to build than the innocence, safety, and protection of young men (CHILDREN). Sure, it's tough to say what anyone would do when faced with such tough decisions but I also feel confident enough to say that if I were in Paterno's shoes I would have grabbed Mike McQueary and his father by the ears straight to Curley's office and then I would have marched them all to President Spanier's office to report this AND THEN I would have gone to the police. And speaking of McQueary....as a credible eyewitness, he should have been the one to go to the authorities as he was the one who saw a crime happening.

Now that the board of trustees at Penn State have fired Joe Paterno for his involvement, or lack thereof...I have mixed emotions. I look at him and see an old man and it makes me sad that his career has ended this way but then I am quickly reminded he's done this to himself. The football season is almost over and Joe Paterno was going to retire at the end of the season, why not just let him finish it out? But is that really fair to the football players? To have Paterno on the sidelines (or in the press box) would be a media circus and focus would definitely not be on the games. And more importantly, what message does that send from a school that holds it's moral code (a moral code Joe Paterno helped build mind you) in such high esteem? Sure Joe, go out there and win 'em...you didn't do anything illegal, your moral compass just failed you horribly.

Now on to what I find to be the most heartbreaking part of this whole mess...the reactions of many of the students, alumni, and fans. I understand that at a time like this, Penn Stater's want to fight to ensure that they are seen as better than this. This is not who they are and they want the world to know. Having gone to an institute of high learning that is steeped in so many traditions, I get it. You want to show your loyalty and that is an admirable thing to do. So many, it seems, are letting their loyalty cloud reality though. This isn't about the college as a whole or the students or even the football team and America realizes that. Sure there will be people who attach this scandal to the university as a whole but screw them, they are a few out of many people. And when I speak of the reality that is being clouded, I'm not even talking about the cover-up and the denials and whether there could have been more done. I am talking about the reality that 8 young men (possibly more) had their innocence taken away and their lives have been changed forever because of a sick, sick man. Discussions should be made about moral codes and doing the right thing but we need to remember and keep in mind the victims. Not just the victims from Penn State but all the victims who fall prey to pedophiles.

I want to end this by saying that if we can take anything away from this it is to speak up when you see a wrong being done, especially when it comes to those who might not necessarily have a voice to be heard. When it comes to children, shout until you're blue in the face, shout it from the rooftops, and don't stop until you know what needs to be done is being done.

Here, There, & Everywhere: Queen Village

2011-11-07T23:51:00.000-05:00

I've been meaning to start a series of posts on different local areas that I frequent and/or really like and want to frequent more often. Friday night I met up with a friend for dinner and drinks in her neighborhood of Queens Village. I figure this is a great start to ‘Here, There, and Everywhere’.

Courtesy: Rowhouse Magazine

Queen Village is a neighborhood located in South Philly (it is actually Philly’s FIRST neighborhood), from below South Street to Washington Avenue. While it is predominately made up of the quintessential Philadelphia rowhomes there are also a few eateries and South Street is a quick walk away. Queen Village is also home to Fabric Row on 4^th Street which houses many fabric and garment-related merchants.

One thing to note if you are headed to Queen Village by car is the difficulty in finding parking. There is permit parking and LOTS of 2 hour parking. I felt like I drove forever trying to find a spot and when I did, many were a tight squeeze. If you’re parallel parking skills are a little rusty, beware! I did end up lucking out and found a spot right down the street from my friends house but next time I will certainly be taking the train into the city and walking.

Fabric Row. Courtesy: Threads And Snippets

My Yearly Thanksgiving/Christmas Rant

2011-11-03T19:21:00.000-04:00

It's November and that means it's the month of my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving! But there is something that bothers me about this time of the year and it's that so many people overlook such a wonderful holiday (Thanksgiving) only to be distracted by the consumerism and materialistic aspects of Christmas.

I love all holidays and I LOVE Christmas but I hate that it gets thrown in your face the second we turn our calendars over from October to November (and sometimes even before then). I do not want a "red cup" thrust into my hands when I go get coffee on November 1st and I don't want to have to see commercial after commercial of picturesque snowy scenes, cute little elves, or a jolly man in a red suit. I don't want to have to walk into a store blairing Christmas music. And I most CERTAINLY don't want to have to read Facebook post after Facebook post after Tweet on decorating for Christmas on November 3rd.

This may make me seem like a Scrooge. Please don't mistake this rant as Scroogieness. I do indeed love Christmas. I love everything about it including all of the aforementioned things. Just please, not before Thanksgiving!

So I will be attempting to boycott the commercials and the stores as much as I can, I will bring my coffee from home, and I will probably hide status posts from friends who feel the need to talk about Christmas on their social networks.

And I will also be actively trying to remind myself of all the things I'm thankful for.

What I've Read: Twenties Girl

2011-10-30T21:41:00.000-04:00

I read this a couple of weeks ago and I loved it! It was recommended to me from a friend who was kind enough to let me borrow her copy. Sophie Kinsella is one of my favorite chick lit authors and I actually turned this friend on to her through the Shopaholic series.

I find all of the main characters in Kinsella's books to be endearingly quirky. I laugh at/with them, sometimes I cry, and it never fails that I will cringe in embarrassment for them. My reactions were no different for Lara, the protagonist in Twenties Girl.

Lara is a twenty-something living in London who recently broke up with her boyfriend and left her job to start a business with her best friend, she is barely getting by when she begins to be haunted by her great aunt Sadie. Sadie needs Lara's help to move on to her final resting place and along the way there are hilarious encounters and adventures and, as with all of Kinsella's books, a happy ending. The ending was my favorite part, while I laughed through the whole book; I laughed and cried at the end and there was a great message.

Twenties Girl was a very easy read, I read it in about a week and had I not been doing other things I would have finished it even sooner. I would definitely recommend this if you are a chick lit fan.

Date Night Attire (With A Name Change Thrown In)

2011-10-28T00:33:00.001-04:00

So you may have noticed that I changed the name of my blog. Do people do that? Oh well...I never really liked the name of my blog but I'm not as creative as I like to think I am and 'Bella Bee Bee' was the first thing I thought of. I feel like 'The Life of Bee' is a little more appropriate as I try to use this blog to encompass my whole life and Bee is...me.

I have a date tomorrow night. (Tonight?) I am going in with no expectations (that's a lie...my expectations are that I'm going to hate him and try to get out of there ASAP) and my only real thoughts have been how I am going to mention to my parents that I am going to dinner with someone I met on Match and more importantly what I'm going to wear.

We're going to this Italian place around here..I've never been but after reading reviews and going to their website and asking my cousin it seems like a nice place. I was OK with Applebee's/Fridays/Etc so I was pleasantly surprised and thoroughly impressed when he suggested this place. This town had been on my list of cute first date places.

I hope I didn't offend him when he asked if I wanted him to pick me up and I said no. Oh well if he was. And while I'll offer to pay...I hope he doesnt' make me. I'm po' yo.

Back to the important things...this is the inspiration/pretty much what I will be wearing:

First Date October 2011 by blane18 featuring slip on shoes

However, my shoes aren't quite as blingy and fabulous. I hope he won't mind...

How Pinteresting!: Halloween 2011 Edition

2011-10-26T19:36:00.000-04:00

Today I am linking up with Michelle at The Vintage Apple. And I am sure this will only be the first of many more Pinteresting Wednesdays!

I have become a big fan of Halloween and I can't believe it is right around the corner! I am disappointed our house is not even remotely decorated. I really need to remind myself to take over the decorating department around here. Here are a few of my favorite Halloween themed pins, ranging from decor to desserts to parties.

On a somewhat related note, I only have one board dedicated to 'Holidays'. The more I look at it, the more I think I really need to make separate boards for each holiday.

No matter...enjoy!

Source: mycreativestirrings.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: None via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: None via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Your Match Profile Is The Window To Your Soul

2011-10-17T23:08:00.001-04:00

It's been about two months since I joined Match.com and I've notices that many of the profiles I'm reading are all the same. Now in a way, I completely understand this. I know my profile is very unoriginal and I feel that my interests are your run of the mill 20-something interests but I also can't help to think some of these people are full of shit.

99.99% of people (totally educated percentage guess) enjoy going out but are tired of the bar scene. They also enjoy nice quiet evenings at home. They are hard working and overall good people. Everyone is active and looking for the same in their partner. They come from a good background, have a great family, and awesome friends. They never know what to write about themselves but then easily write a 300-page autobiography.

I absolutely LOVE when people state that they're single. Thank GOODNESS! Thanks for clearing that up for me.

I try not to be nit picky but seriously people, your profile is your first impression in online dating so please, for the love of God, PROOFREAD!

I believe I have found my all time favorite Match profile today. It is from a 23 year old Asian man and if he didn't get the wrong impression and think I was interested, I would totally favorite it.

I am an editor for a local magazine, and I am looking to meet interesting and attractive new girls! I'm have an Ivy League degree, and right now I'm just working my way up the social and career ladder.

There is absolutely nothing else on his profile and he only has one picture. Everything else is marked 'I'll tell you later.' And he has no preference for his date.

I don't know why but I just find his profile hilarious.

So that's my main comment I have on this whole online dating journey for now. I haven't had any dates to share which is mildly disappointing, I was hoping for a real craptastic date to write about (or even a really great date...but craptastic is always a good laugh) but alas it's been quiet on the Match.com front. I'll be sure to keep ya'll posted.

What I'm Baking: Caramel Stuffed Apple Cider Cookies

2011-10-13T21:06:00.001-04:00

Source: scrambledhenfruit.blogspot.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

I have been craving some fall baking and while I haven't done as much as I'd like I did kick start the quest with these deeeeelicious cookies.

They're delicious! Perfect for fall. And you DEFINITELY need the parchment. I didn't realize we had parchment paper until a couple days ago so I used wax paper and cooking spray and getting the cookies off got a little sticky. (Haha, get it...sticky...)

Caramel Stuffed Apple Cider Cookies

Ingredients

1 cup softened butter

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 box (7.4 oz) Alpine Spiced Apple Cider Instant Original Drink mix -not sugar free- all 10 packets (I found this in my grocery store near the hot chocolate mixes.)

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 cups all purpose flour

1 bag Kraft Caramels (14 oz)

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line cookie sheets with parchment. (You really need the parchment!) In a small bowl whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder and cinnamon. With your mixer (or an energetic spoon) cream together butter, sugar, salt and all 10 packages of apple cider drink mix powder, until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla and mix well. Gradually add flour mixture to butter/egg mixture. Mix until just combined. Refrigerate for about an hour. (If you're really impatient you don't have to do this, but it makes it so much easier to work with.) When you are ready to bake, unwrap your caramels. Scoop out cookie dough ball about the size of a walnut. (I used a rounded cookie scoop-full. My scoop holds about a Tablespoon.) Flatten the ball of dough slightly in the palm of your hand. Press the unwrapped caramel into the center of your dough and seal the dough around it, covering it completely. Place on parchment covered cookie sheets 2 inches apart. Bake 12-14 minutes, or until very lightly browned around the edges. Please don't over-bake! Once the cookies are done, slide the parchment off of the baking sheet right out onto the counter. Allow cookies to partially cool on the parchment. When cookies are cool enough to be firm but still slightly warm, carefully twist off of parchment and allow to finish cooling upside down (either on the parchment or on a rack.) If you forget about them and they cool too much and stick to your parchment, put them into the freezer for a few minutes and they'll pop right off.

Yield: about 4 dozen, depending on how large you make your cookies (or how many caramels have been snitched out of your bag before you begin.) Store in an airtight container.

Recipe courtesy: Pinterest via Scrambled Henfruit

What I'm Cooking: Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole

2011-10-13T09:42:00.000-04:00

Source: plainchicken.blogspot.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

I made this a couple of Sunday's ago when I was in charge of dinner. It was chilly and rainy and the Eagles were losing so I was in need of some comfort food hardcore. I had pinned this a while ago and decided this was perfect for the comfort food kick I was looking for. And as rich and unhealthy as it looks...most everything was reduced fat or fat free.

I think everyone in the house really liked it and it was just as good leftover for lunch during the week. It was cheesy (and if you don't know this by now...if it's cheesy it's for mee-sy) and I thought the chicken mixture had a great garlic flavor to it. This is definitely something I'll be making again.

Chicken Cresent Roll Casserole

2 (8 ounce) cans Reduced Fat Pillsbury Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Rolls
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can 98% fat free cream of chicken soup, undiluted
3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese or swiss cheese (or any cheese of choice)
1/2 cup milk

Filling
4 ounces cream cheese (very soft) * I used 1/3 less fat cream cheese*
2 tablespoons butter (very soft but not melted)
1/2-1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tsp minced onion flakes
2 large cooked chicken breasts, finely chopped (or use about 2 cups, can use cooked turkey)
1/2-3/4 cup finely grated cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp seasoning salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)
2 Tbsp. milk
1-2 cup grated cheddar cheese (for topping)

Set oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x13 dish with cooking spray. Mix together milk, 3/4 cup cheese and undiluted chicken soup (can season with black pepper if desired).

For the filling --- (make certain that the cream cheese and butter are very soft) in a bowl, mix the soft cream cheese with butter until very smooth, then add in garlic powder. Add in the chopped chicken, onion and cheddar cheese; mix well until combined. Add in 2 tablespoons milk; mix to combine (add in a little more if the mixture seems too dry). Season with seasoned salt or white and black pepper to taste. Unroll the crescent rolls. Place 1 heaping tablespoon chicken mixture (or a little more) on top of each crescent triangle, then roll up starting at the thicker end. Drizzle a small amount of soup mixture on the bottom of the dish. Then place the crescent rolls seam-side down on top of the creamed mixture in the casserole.
Drizzle the remaining sauce on top (you don't have to use the full amount of cream sauce, just use as much as desired) and sprinkle with 1 cup (or more) grated cheese, or amount desired. Bake for about 30 minutes.

Recipe found on Plain Chicken via Pinterest

I've Put Myself On Suicide Watch

2011-10-10T22:58:00.000-04:00

That title may not be funny but well...after this weekend...I really should of.

The Phillies lost. So fuck it...I will not put pictures up of the best game I've ever been to. It's nothing more than a distant memory anymore. The pain is too much, the hurt is too real. My heart is broken and it's about that time I break up with the boys of summer.

Unfortunately, I can't even turn to the boys of fall in my time of need as those stupid fucking Birds are sucking complete ass and we too are fighting. 1-4?! Really. I need a drink just thinking about it.

All I have to say is...thank God it's hockey season. Go Flyers!

Credit: Google Images

I Love The Smell Of Baseball In October

2011-10-06T07:46:00.000-04:00

Saturday, shortly after posting my Red October post down below, I got to cross something off my bucket list...that I didn't even know was on there!

I was heading to Target on the hunt for some Phillies slippers to warm my chilly feet when I received a text message. It was from a neighbor (who is no longer a neighbor) whose friend had two tickets to Saturday nights Phillies game. Holy Franklin Delano Roosevelt! I quickly dismissed it as I didn't know who on earth I would take. There were only two tickets and someone was bound to get pissed as all hell that they weren't the chosen one. Then I remembered my brother was home so I asked him if he would want to go. He did so I texted NWISNLAN (neighbor who is no longer a neighbor) who gave me the number to the person with the tickets. As I was the first person to contact her I got the tickets! I told Brudda Man not to worry about paying me back as this was his graduation/going away present. (He reports to Quantico on the 18th peeps!)

I've been to plenty of Phillies games but I've never been to a playoff game. Then I realized this was something that should have been on my bucket list so I mentally added it and crossed it off. The game was an awesome game to be at and I am so happy we won! Your welcome, Phillies. As I am clearly your good luck charm your offer of free tickets will NOT be turned down. The energy in the park was off the wall. Everytime we scored everyone was screaming and hugging and high fiving all around. And this, my dear friends, is why Philadelphia fans (while often getting a bad rap) are some of the BEST, most passionate sports fans in the world.

As of today I am a little nervous. We're going into a do or die game five to be played tomorrow. Luckily we have Halladay on the mound and the Cardinals are playing Carpenter on short rest...again. And we'll be home. It's always good to win at home.

I have pictures but I will have to post them later and it won't let me cut or paste them. Lame.

Go Phillies!

Happy Red October!

2011-10-01T11:46:00.000-04:00

It's about that time...

Celebrate Your Singleness! Part 2

2011-09-30T13:37:00.000-04:00

Dating. Coupled people may think it's a drag, but dating is actually a fun way to meet new people, get free drinks and maybe make out with a handsome stranger.
Not having to share the bathroom, or my food, or the remote, or the bed...
Girls' nights out -- and the free shots they warrant from nice bartenders!
All the closet space is mine!
Making out with handsome strangers
I can save money instead of spending it on getting dolled up for dates.
I can wear whatever I want and no one will call me out on my clothes being too revealing. (Except my mother!)
No shower necessary on lazy days! (Just look at Ke$ha, she gets along just fine.)
No shower necessary on lazy days! (Just look at Ke$ha, she gets along just fine.)
I can pack my fridge with whatever beer I like and not feel bad about it.
I can stick (or not stick) to my own chores schedule.
On Sunday morning when I get up, I don't have to share the coffee or newspaper.
I don’t feel silly crying during a movie, TV commercial or TV show.
I can indulge in champagne on a weeknight once in awhile without anyone judging me.

Source: YourTango

Enjoy your weekend everyone!

Celebrate Your Singleness! Part 1

2011-09-29T23:16:00.000-04:00

Did you know that last week was National Unmarried and Singles Week? Yeah, who knew they had such a thing...I guess whatever you need to get yourself through life. Anyway, YourTango had a week long countdown of the 100 best things about being single. After reading I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell, I really don't need a reason. (Hardy har, just kidding! Not all guys are assholes...I think.) Anyway, here are a list of my favorite best things about being single. These made me laugh, cry, nod my head and thank the heavens I am not attached.

(As I went about getting these off the document I saved them on, I realized how many I liked so I will be breaking this up into a two part post. Hang tight for more single lady goodness.)

Lingerie shopping that depends on what *I* love, not someone else's taste in what I should wear.
I feel no guilt when I kick you out early in the morning. It's my place, dude, I do what I want.
I can watch Sex and The City every single weeknight at 8 p.m.
Eight hours of delicious, uninterrupted sleep.
Having the funniest/most fun pics on Facebook when everyone else is posting pics of their kids.
I can hog the remote.
I can skip a day (or -- dare I say it -- two) of shaving my legs.
I don't have to take turns making the movie selection--and I don't have to pretend to like his choice of zombie features, alien attack flicks, etc.
I can spend my weekends getting my nails done, shopping till I drop or doing whatever I feel like
I can take over the whole bathroom counter with my products.
Um, hello? Vegas?
If I really like a song, say something from LMFAO, I can play it on repeat. (As much as I want)
I can scream at the TV when someone (Tony Romo or Snooki) does something moronic.
"Just happening" to join the guys who have their own table at the hottest late-night spots is always a fun time.
No BF means no one nagging me for sex when I'm too tired or otherwise not in the mood.
Hooking up at weddings. Some singles mistakenly think it's lonely to attend a wedding solo. Wrong indeed! Why do you think groomsmen were invented anyway?
No limits to where my life and career take me now.
Freedom to spend money on and decorate your apartment with girly things galore, like scented candles and accent pillows that a significant other might find wasteful or unimportant.
No in-laws, just yet.
One word: flirting.
I can wear comfortable underwear and not worry that he'll see me in my granny panties.

What I've Read: I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell

2011-09-26T22:31:00.000-04:00

I honestly don't know where to begin. I have so much to say about Tucker Max and his first book. For those of you not familiar with Mr. Max, he started a website way back in the day that got a bit of notoriety, it started out as a dating application and then he proceeded to write all about his crazy life. He got sued by Miss Vermont. MTV followed him around. He became famous. Blah, blah, blah.

I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell is a compilation of some of his craziest, most popular stories. I'm not even sure why I bought it. Oh, that's right, the movie tie-in version was only $5 on my Kindle. So I gave it a try. I am so totally repulsed yet so intrigued by Tucker Max. The stories are outlandish and often I felt like I was reading porn. Tucker Max is a good write and while each story is different, they all had the same basis and got very old. How many times can one read about this guy who touts himself an asshole getting super wasted and having sex with random chicks? But I'd be lying if I didn't say I laughed my ass off and read the book in about a day.

Tucker Max has another book out now, Assholes Finish First and another book due out this year Hilarity Ensues. While I may read another one of his books I will certainly not waste my money and I'll stick to borrowing it from the library.

Sunday Funday: Buffalo Chicken Dip

2011-09-25T16:01:00.000-04:00

As noted in my previous post, I love fall. One of the reasons being FOOTBALL! Again, I love cool, crisp Sundays sitting in front of the boob tube watching football. I'm a die-hard Eagles and Steelers fan since birth. (For all you fellow fans, I know it's odd...it's all my dad's fault.) But more importantly I love REALLY good football, no matter the team.

I love inviting friends over and cooking up some delicious football friendly food and partaking in my end of weekend pasttime, Sunday Funday. I haven't actually invited anyone over yet this season but in due time. Today I was craving buffalo chicken dip. So simple, so good, and so perfect for football. If you haven't experienced the artery clogging goodness that is BCD, you must. It's so simple that I pretty much have the recipe memorized.

8 oz package of cream cheese
1/2 cup ranch or bleu cheese dressing
1/2 cup Frank's Red Hot
1/2 cup crumbed bleu cheese or mozzarella cheese (I personally use cheddar)
2 cans (12 oz each) chunk chicken (or you can shred your own chicken...I'm lazy and stick to the canned)

You stir the cream cheese in a baking dish until it's smooth. I usually don't have the patience so I stir it around a little and move on.

Mix in the ranch, Frank's, and cheese.

Add the chicken and stir.

I top it off with the rest of the cheese. Pop it in the oven for 20 minutes and viola!
Wonderfulness in a dish.

Happy Autumn!

2011-09-25T12:03:00.000-04:00

I'm a few days late but Happy Autumn everyone! While I love living in an area that experiences all the seasons, Autumn is probably my favorite season, I say it's the teacher in me.

The crisp air, the foliage, and football. Also, I think fall decor is the best. In honor of the new season I'm sharing a few of my favorite fall decor looks, brought to you via Pinterest (of course!).

Source: hoosierhomemade.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: images.search.yahoo.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: aresohappy.tumblr.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: vickihorton7.wordpress.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

I also found this adorable to do list via Pinterest and it's my goal in the upcoming weeks to finish as many as possible:

Source: google.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Biggest Loser: 30-Day Jumpstart

2011-09-15T08:00:00.001-04:00

Last night as I was sitting and catching up on some reading, I had this strange sensation come over me. I've experienced this feeling before but I have to say it's been months since it's hit. This strange feeling, this need...to workout.

Then it passed.

But then it hit again so I decided it was best to listen and give in. Since I no longer have a gym membership, I headed up to my bedroom and picked a workout DVD to use. I decided since it's been a while since I've worked out, The Biggest Loser 30-Day Jumpstart was the best pick. I hadn't even opened the packaging!

Photo Credit: Google Images

It's broken up into 10 minute segments. Two cardio, upper body, lower body, and abs. You can do the entire DVD for a 50 minute work out or pick and choose. I'm following the workout plan which breaks it down by week and day so I only did the first cardio level. And holy crap! I don't think I would have lasted more than 10 minutes. By the end I was drenched in sweat and totally out of breath.

A reminder that I am totally out of shape and need to start working out on the regular.

I Can't Stand Being Smothered....So Quit Smothering Me

2011-09-14T08:00:00.001-04:00

Saturday night of Labor Day Weekend one of my friends and I went to our normal watering hole. Not expecting much, I kept my bathing suit cover up on and simply switched my bathing suit top to a strapless bra. My hair was super greasy so I threw on a pretty gem head band and put a little bronzer and mascara on and called it a day.

Surprisingly there was a decent crowd and my friend and I noticed a guy across the bar sitting alone playing one of those computer bar games. We agreed he was kind of cute so we told one of the employees (the same one who introduced us to Phillies Fan) who drug him over to us. I had kept saying that he looked really familiar and once he came over we took one look at each other and almost simultaneously said "I know you!" It turns out we met about 6 years ago in a Wawa parking lot. We had texted a few times and met up at the diner but that was about it.

We shall name him Truckie. He's kind of a blast from a past and we spent a little bit catching up. A few of us decided to go to another bar so we exchanged numbers and that was it. He was really nice, it was nice to catch up, and minus a few things here and there that I have weird hang ups on, I was excited to continue catching up.

I got home from the bar and we texted and as I settled in prepared to spend the rest of the evening (morning) texting back and forth he asked if I'd want to go to the diner, his treat. So I picked him up and off we went. We hit it off fairly well and the next morning I invited him to the BBQ my friends and I were having.

My friend who I was with the night before and I went and picked him up and he did so much, from getting rid of the horrible garbage my family left behind the night before to buying soda, more liquor, getting a cooler full of ice, and filling up my gas tank. Like unbelievably nice but...I was just so not into him.

Why? He seemed great, he had a good job and was super nice, worked his ass off at my BBQ, and seemed to get along with my friends.

I'll tell you why...he wouldn't quit calling me honey, sweetie, gorgeous, beautiful. And it just seemed like he was jumping the gun on a potential relationship. I couldn't handle it. It was two days in and I felt like I had to drop everything and act married. Also, I read his Facebook wall and just got a weird feeling he has a lot of drama when it comes to girls, dating, and relationships.

Um, no. That's not how I roll. I tried to tell him nicely, my friends told him, and he didn't listen. And most of all I don't have time for bullshit. So over the weekend after he hounded me what I wanted for my birthday and he didn't get the hint I wanted NOTHING more than for him to leave me alone, I put my big girl pants on and told him I wasn't interested in him in anyway other than a friend. I was half expecting him to get a little crazy seeing how quickly he seemed to want to jump into things but he didn't, so phew.

So despite my friend and I joking that as soon as I paid for an online dating site I met someone NOT on the site...I am still at square one. But I have to say I am proud that instead of staying with something I wasn't into/comfortable with and stringing someone along, I took the mature route and told him right off the bat. Sure, it was via text message and maybe it took me a week but I did it. So if nothing else, I'm learning.

Birthday Week Kickoff

2011-09-13T21:17:00.000-04:00

I have dubbed this past weekend the official Bee Birthday Week Kickoff. Friday I went down to my BFF's for a get together for her hubby's birthday. Saturday, after driving home and spending some time at my mom's yardsale, we headed down to my aunt's for dinner and a wine/jazz night at a local winery.

Photo Credit: NJ.com

Almathea Cellars is a cute little winery located in Atco, NJ. We've been here a couple of time. I love the cozy feeling inside the store and tasting rooms and every time we've been there everyone has been very friendly and super informed.

We really lucked out as far as weather goes and it was a gorgeous night to be outside tasting wine and listening to music. The wine tastings were complimentary and wines were available to purchase by the glass or bottle. I stuck to trying the Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Shiraz. They were all great but out of the three my favorite was the shiraz. My aunt and I decided to buy a bottle...or two.

My mom and I slept over my aunts Saturday night and Sunday morning after church headed to the Philadelphia Art Museum to see Rembrandt and the Face of Jesus Exhibit. I love museums. This exhibit was good, I learned a few things that my many years of Catholic school education never taught me and it was short. It took about a total of an hour and a half to walk through with the audio tour and reading different blurbs. After we briefly walked through the museum then headed back to NJ for some grub.

Photo Credit: Google Images

Fun fact: If you're ever in Philadelphia, the art museum is free on the first Sunday morning of each month (or as they call it...Pay What You Wish!). One of my favorite things to do in life is walk through the museum then head to brunch somewhere in the city.

We headed to Dubh Linn Square (Dublin Square) in Washington Township. There is a Dublin Square by me that I love so I was excited to try this one out. The menu was a little different but they had one of my favorite appetizers, Spicy Potatoes! So good, they're new potatoes in buffalo sauce. Yum!

It was a great weekend and luckily the weather turned out to be very nice. It was a great way to kickoff my birthday!

Labor Day Parties Are Pure Labor...I'm Ready For Fall

2011-09-08T09:13:00.003-04:00

I hope everyone had a relaxing and fun Labor Day weekend. Overall mine was fun but ended on a stressful note thanks to the Labor Day BBQ I hosted on Sunday. I'm pretty sure my summer ended with a bang...or maybe more a slamming front door. That's another story for another day and not the point of this post.

The point of this post is to share HOW excited I am for fall. I love living in an area where we experience all four seasons and I love each season but fall may stand out as my favorite as it comes at a time when I'm over the heat and humidity. I love fall. Mainly fall clothes. And I have been liking and pinning fall clothes inspirations like crazy on Pinterest. Here are some of my favorites that I am totally going to recreate.

Source: bowribbonsandpearls.tumblr.com via Kate on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Shea on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Mandy on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com via Teoma on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Heather on Pinterest

Happy Almost Fall!

Doing Something I Never Thought I'd Do

2011-08-27T12:25:00.000-04:00

Maybe the title of this post is a lie because what I'm about to tell you, I've actually done before. Along with a couple of my girlfriends I've joined an online dating site. And after not being able to see who was viewing me and all that jazz, I also bought a membership, which is more than I can say for my friends.

I've been on the site once or twice but never really looked in to it too seriously. Even now I can't say I'm taking it too seriously. I don't take dating or relationships seriously at all. Do I want to meet someone and have a relationship? Sure. Am I going to go after it like a job? No.

After my general weariness of online dating wore off I figured what the hizzy. I'm not really meeting anyone so why not check it out again. I also figure it could make for some entertaining blogging.

So here I am, updating my profile a couple times a day as I hate talking about myself and don't know what to put and totally out of my comfort zone "checking" people out. It is also not in my nature to make the first move but I have to admit it's a little bit easier on the computer than at a bar.

Have any of you done the online dating thing? How did it work for you?

Could My Life Be Heading In Some Sort Of Direction?

2011-08-23T22:23:00.000-04:00

I've maybe said this once or twice but I went to college with dreams of becoming a super successful event planner who would work and play hard in the city of brotherly love with super fabulous people.

BAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!

By my senior year, after three years of just scraping by taking classes that barely interested me, I knew that I did not want to work in the business world. But there was no way I could change my major as I was graduating. So I graduated with a marketing degree, applied for a couple of jobs that kind of tickled my fancy, and then decided I was going to be a teacher. I was going to make this change ASAP as not to waste any time.

BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

I applied for a job at a daycare as a pre-school teacher assistant. Three years later I am still there but now working as the lead in the infant room. In the three years I've been there, I've looked at college websites a million times, I've sent my resume out to various jobs that have sort of tickled my fancy and I've applied to cosmetology school. (Did I ever tell you the story of how I applied to cosmetology school? I will have to check and save it for a rainy day...or maybe tomorrow.)

I am now in the process of studying and applying for my CDA (Child Development Associate) in Infants/Toddlers. (Sidebar, I'm super behind and should probably be reading my lessons instead of catching up on Google Reader and blogging.) I've also finally made the plunge and applied to go back to school to get my teaching certification.

Sunday, it was a cold and rainy day. Well, maybe not cold but it was SUPER rainy. I was motivated to click on the website of a school I had started an application for and check it out. I updated the application (that I started in 2009...yikes!) and the next thing I know it's submitted and Papa Bee is handing over his debit card so that I can pay the application fee. (Can we talk about how stupid I think application fees are? Schools should pay ME for applying to THEM.)

I am now in the process of getting all the supplemental documents together so that my application is complete. The deadline is November 1st and my stomach will be in a knot until I know whether I have gotten in or not. My GPA from college is less than stellar but I'm hoping with the experience I have in a pre-school as well as solid recommendations and decent PRAXIS scores (from 2009...ugh) they will accept me as one of their own.

Cross your fingers, do a dance, and say a prayer (or many) for me!

Completely off topic but as any of you on the east coast know, we experienced an earthquake today. It was the weirdest, creepiest, scariest thing of my life. I know you west coasters are used to these and would probably laugh at my reaction but I'm not used to these things. I went from thinking one of my babies was kicking the table really hard to thinking the building was collapsing to thinking there was a gas line explosion somewhere to finally realizing we were in the middle of an earthquake. All in 30 seconds. Now, as we brace for a hurricane (well you Southern gals are bracing for a hurricane, we'll just get a little rain) all I have to say to Mother Nature is, give me your freaking hurricane...just keep your earthquake.

Working Out For Less

2011-08-22T09:10:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time I had a gym membership at Retro Fitness. And by once upon a time I mean up until May. It was great, they're inexpensive, clean, and definitely not intimidating. However, in the year that I had my membership I was very irregular in my visits. I never went in May so my contract never renewed. I've thought about going back but even at $19.99, not going was a waste of my money.

I need to get to working out again. I don't think anyone can argue that working out on a regular basis makes one feel so much better all around. So what's a girl to do when she doesn't want to shell out money but needs to get her fitness on? Here are a few of my favorite at home workout options.

First, it's super easy to make an at-home gym. Unfortunately we don't have the room. Actually, that's a lie. We have one of these babies set up in the basement:

You don't even need to have a treadmill or elliptical. These are some of my favorite items you can buy anywhere:

All Images: Google Image

And with the weather not being so horribly humid and hot, it's a perfect time to get outside and workout. I plan on starting up my Couch to 5K running plan again, this time outdoors. (I think third time will be the charm with this attempt!)

My favorite at home workouts consist of workout DVDs. They can be inexpensive and you can find ANYTHING. My personal favorite is Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred.

Image Credit: Amazon.com

I also like putting workouts together via health/fitness magazines such as Self, Shape, Fitness, and Women's Health. YouTube has so many channels dedicated to workouts. And Google is great to find new workouts and local workout classes.

Some of my go to Fitness links:

Random Musings Because I Got Nuttin

2011-08-18T00:34:00.001-04:00

I feel like the past week or so has been a blur. My mom-mom's viewing and funeral were last Thursday and Friday. I got sick. I had a 103 fever. Then a stupid annoying cough. I spent the weekend on the couch and missed the party we had Friday night.

I just feel super behind in life.

It rained super hard Sunday and Monday and that made getting life back to reality, aka going to work, super hard. Luckily the past few days has been nice. So nice I've been taking the dog out for a walk.

Hopefully we'll keep up this little routine.

Has anyone else noticed the change in summer? Like in the evenings...it's a little bit cooler, a little bit quieter, like the kids are all getting ready to head inside earlier. I'm so over the triple digit heat and nasty humidity but I am certainly not ready for summer to be over! I feel like I have so many trips to the beach left to make and so much more time left at the pool to spend. Especially the pool. This could be it for me and my pool. Who knows what is going to happen to my grandmother's house now. While I always try to live in the now, it is really during the end of summer I focus just on the day to day. I stop wishing my days away, even when they're spent stuck in work. And sometimes I hope that I'll discover a new ability to stop time. Eh...but at the same time I'm getting excited for the little things that the changing of the seasons bring.

I'm studying for my CDA (Child Development Associate). I'm getting mine through an independent study which could be bad news bears. It's super hard to stay on top of things when you're not in a class. Who am I kidding though...even when I was in a class I barely stayed on top of things. But I feel like I will not be done my application and studying by the time my coworkers are done. I need to focus, focus, focus; sit down and make a plan of action. Or something.

I have a new obsession in my life.

Probably one of the best shows on TV. My brother is a huge fan and I've seen bits and pieces but I recently got Netflix streaming and have spent the last week getting hooked. I'm halfway through season 2 and need to find a way to watch season 3 before the season 4 premiere on September 6th.

Anyone recognize this guy?

What about now?

Yeah, I had no idea Ryan Hurst was on Sons of Anarchy. I always wanted him to be my BF after I saw Remember the Titans. Now I want to be his old lady so bad. *Sigh*

Told ya this would be random.

Target Tuesday #3

2011-08-09T09:32:00.000-04:00

It's about that time...for another Target Tuesday! This week I am showcasing some of my favorite Target swimwear.

As adorable as these two bikinis are, with bubbies as big as mine...they'd never work. I believe this might be what Twitter calls #firstworldproblems?

And when you're rocking the swimwear you'll need a coverup!

I have this coverup and I love it. I wear it everywhere! As a coverup and a dress. So comfy!

Love, love, love this. So pretty I'd wear this coverup as a dress too.

What I'm Loving: For My Morning and Nightly Routines

2011-08-08T10:12:00.000-04:00

I have been seriously absent from life the past few days. We have been busy getting ready for my MomMom's funeral which will be at the end of this week. But I've done nothing and I need to quit it.

Anyway, today I'm sharing with you a few of my favorite products that I use during my morning and nightly routines.

First up some of my favorite face products. I like to switch up the products I use and I'm always on the look out to try something new.

I just picked this up over the weekend as I've had no astringent/toner. I've been using it since Saturday and can't give much of an opinion. Except I feel like I've broken out a little bit. I'm wondering if it's because it's a deep cleaner and the pimples are just coming out to clear up my skin. Does that make sense? Oh well.

This is the Wal-Mart brand of the Aveeno Positvely Radiant Moisturizer. I love it! I love the smell and it leaves my skin super soft.

I've been using the Biore Warming Anti-Blackhead Cream Cleanser. It's creamy with little beads that exfoliate. My favorite part is when I first put it on my face it's HOT. Such a funny feeling!

Next up dental care. I'm a huge teeth freak. It's probably all the years I spent in orthodontic wear.

I'm a huge fan of the Crest 3D White line. I notice a difference in my teeth after just a couple uses.

What is your daily routine? What are your favorite brands?

Goodbyes Are Never Easy

2011-08-03T23:07:00.000-04:00

Today we lost a very special lady. As I mentioned, my grandmother, or MomMom was in the hospital and came home last week. Today, she passed away. She was 89 years young, just shy of her 90th birthday.

MomMom was a fun loving, blonde haired blue eyed stubborn as all hell spit fire. The world will never be the same. We butted heads just as badly as my dad and she did. Why? Because we were two peas in a pod. My dad just shared with me yesterday that a couple weeks ago, after we had a "difference of opinion", that she told him I was a real pain in the ass, stubborn as hell. "Well, who do you think she gets that from?" She shook her head, put her hands to her ears as she would do when you told her something she didn't want to hear and said "But why does she have to be stubborn to her grandmother?" Because MomMom, just like you, I don't discriminate in who I rear my bull headed ways to!

I always thought of MomMom as my "fun" grandmom. She smoked like a chimney, drank like a fish, and cursed like a sailor. We would have parties in her backyard (which had a nice inground pool that we spent most of our summers in), HUGE parties, the yard would be packed. Greasy bread would be on the grill, beer in the cooler, and booze fully stocked. And it was always expected there would be singing.

I've been preparing myself for this for the last week but it still doesn't make it any easier. My mind is racing a mile a minute with memories of MomMom. But for now I will leave you with one of my favorite pictures from MomMom's birthday last September.

They're Palacsintas, Not Placentas

2011-07-31T23:59:00.000-04:00

Since my grandmother's been sick, I've been thinking back on growing up with her a lot lately. One of my favorite memories is going over her house (she only lived right down the street) when I was about 8 or so and cooking and baking with her. My grandmother has always been more of a TV Dinner type gal but she was a great cook.

One of the first things I made with her were palacsintas, or Hungarian crepes/pancakes. We would fill them with ice cream and have them after a day of swimming and grilling. I got the idea a couple days ago to make them over the weekend for her to enjoy. I figured they'd be soft and easy for her to swallow. Unfortunately, she wasn't able to eat them. I think she liked the fact that I was making them, though, as I got a little chuckle out of her yesterday morning when I told her I was making them.

I'm not sure where my grandmother's Hungarian cookbook is. Either my mom took it and it's hidden away somewhere or my grandmother threw it out. Either way I wasn't able to use her recipe so it was off to Google I went. I decided on Bobby Flay's version. A good choice!

I apologize for some of the blurry pictures. I don't know why some of my phone's pictures come in smaller when I email them to myself.

First you must navigate through the sea of kitchen appliances.

And get to use this beauty! It's rare I get to touch it. I can't wait to get engaged and put one on my wedding registry.

Gather all the ingredients. But not the tomatoes. No need for those.

Let that beauty do it's thang.

While the batter rests in the fridge go and do something fun, like catch up on Pretty Little Liars.

You will use a lot of butter. And you will love it.

Since you're using an 8 in. pan, might I suggest a smaller spatula. Not the giant ones that we seem to have in our house. For Christmas' sake...would someone buy me a small spatula?! (Or spatoola as I like to call it.)

They're delicious hot and cold. Fresh or the next day. We only had strawberry preserves around so that's what I used. My dad said his grandmother always used apricot preserves. I remember using both with MomMom. And ice cream, of course.

And if you can wait sprinkle some powder sugar...it'll be worth it, I promise.

Far from healthy but oh so yummy!

And like I said, I used Bobby Flay's recipe and my dad said they were just as good as his grandmother used to make. And they were just as good as I remember the ones MomMom and I used to make.

Ingredients

3 eggs
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon sugar
Pinch salt
1 cup carbonated water
Butter, for cooking pancakes

Directions

Mix eggs, flour, milk, sugar and salt to make a smooth pancake dough. Let the dough rest for 1 to 2 hours.

Stir in the carbonated water at the last moment, just before cooking the pancakes.

Heat an 8-inch frying pan. When the pan is hot, add 1/4 teaspoon of the butter. Let butter melt and swirl to cover the bottom of the pan.

Pour a ladle of the batter into the pan and gently tip and twist the pan so that the batter covers the entire bottom of the pan. When the top of the batter bubbles, turn the pancake over and cook for 4 or 5 seconds longer. Remove the pancake. Continue until the batter is all cooked; add butter before cooking each pancake.

Serve by spreading raspberry jam, cocoa mix, or your favorite filling and roll up the pancake, serve with fresh berries.

Note: These pancakes can be served hot or cold.

Visual Vacation

2011-07-29T08:44:00.000-04:00

Source: tinywhitedaisies.tumblr.com via Elena on Pinterest

I need a vacation. BAD. But due to lack of money and obligations at home and work...that's a no go. So I guess I will just have to stick to a visual vacation.

Have you ever gone on a visual vacation? Basically you open up your favorite travel mag, book, or website (or just go to Pinterest!) and imagine you're there.

I don't need to go someplace fancy. Just give me me a few days off (maybe paid?), a porch, a hammock, lots of coffee and booze, and some good books.

*Siiiiighhhhh.*

Hope everyone has a great weekend! I've been trying to post on the regular but I'm sure my posts are a little blah. Things are a little crazy here. My Mom-Mom was in the hospital and is now home but we are busy getting her back in tip top shape! Plus I feel like I'm always at work.

*Visualvacationvisualvacationvisualvacation*

Boyfriend Jeans, The Epitome Of Comfort

2011-07-28T07:00:00.003-04:00

Boyfriend Jeans by Blane18 featuring boy friend jeans

Citizens of Humanity rolled up jeans
€249 - jades24.com

Boy friend jeans
€99 - conleys.de

Distressed boyfriend jeans
£95 - flannelsfashion.com

Boy friend jeans
€129 - conleys.de

Current/Elliott boy friend jeans
€239 - jades24.com

Food Porn

2011-07-27T07:00:00.005-04:00

I've been obsessed with Pinterest for the past week or so. One of my boards that was quickly filled was Cooking and Baking. I can't wait to try some of these recipes out. But until then I'll share a few that are really making my mouth water. You might see a common theme in these baked goodies.

Source: the-girl-who-ate-everything.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: howsweeteats.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: oleana.wordpress.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: divine-baking.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Source: tendercrumb.blogspot.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Mmmmm, chocolate.

And I'm not even a chocolate girl!

Target Tuesday #2

2011-07-26T07:30:00.001-04:00

I've decided that since I don't have anything interesting to say, I would do another Target Tuesday. Woohoo! Today I am giving you some of my favorite patio, outdoor decor and accessories. These are all things I would want if I had a backyard of my own. Or the parentals let me do whatever the eff I wanted.

I love fire pits. And we need a new one...desperately.

There is nothing more relaxing than loungin' in a hammock!

Love these lights.

I could design an entire backyard around these. Love them.

Iron Hill Brewery

2011-07-24T20:48:00.001-04:00

Courtesy: Google Images

The past week was filled with a lot of catching up with friends I haven't seen in a while. In particular, Thursday night. I met up with a college friend I haven't seen in over two years! She recently moved back to the area and I can't wait to see her more.

We decided to meet up someplace about halfway between me and her boyfriends place so I picked Iron Hill Brewery in Maple Shade. I had never been and have been wanting to check it out.

I was a little nervous that we would have trouble getting a table as I noticed on their website an Open Table widget to make reservations. I was even more nervous when I pulled into the parking lot and it looked packed. I had to wait for my friend so by the time we got in there was a little wait but nothing like what I was preparing for. I would definitely recommend if you go between 5ish and 8 pm to make a reservation just to play it safe.

Courtesy: Iron Hill Brewery.com

The interior had some funky art on the walls and a warm and cozy feel. We got a seat in the corner of the dining room which was perfect for all the catching up we had to do. I didn't get to see much of the bar area but it was busy and people looked to be having a great time.

As the name should tell you, this is a micro-brewery. According to their website,

Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant is a privately owned company that produces distinctive, full-flavored handcrafted beers, accompanied by inspired yet informal New American cuisine in a comfortable, casual atmosphere. The goal has always been to produce food and beer that is fresh and inspired, consistently crafted and presented by a knowledgeable and courteous service staff.

I'm not much of a beer drinker but I'm getting there. Usually it's Bud Light for me. Beer Snobs, forgive me. Anyway, on top of Iron Hill's house beers they also have monthly releases. I tried one of the house beers, Raspberry Wheat. It was very good, in fact I had two. It was a light, fruity beer.

And while originally I thought we were going to be getting dinner, but my girlfriend and her BF had already eaten so I stuck to a small appetizer. I got a fish taco. One single, solitary albeit delicious fish taco. It was a soft flour tortilla filled with cornmeal crusted fried catfish, golden pineapple chutney, red cabbage-jalapeno slaw, and cilantro aioli. It was heaven. I probably could have eaten 10. Alas, you only get one so I only had one. But I would definitely recommend the fish taco appetizer!

The food was good, the drinks were good, the waitresses and hostesses were very friendly, and it was reasonably priced. I'm a big fan and will definitely be going again!

Check it out at: http://www.ironhillbrewery.com/

What I'm Playing Thursday #1

2011-07-21T09:26:00.000-04:00

I don't have much time to post the rest of this week but I didn't NOT want to post. So here's another link-up, this time from We're Just Like You Only Prettier.

This week, everyone I will see at the Tim McGraw concert on Friday night. Plus Eric Church for good measure because I love him.

Eric Church - Love Your Love The Most

Luke Bryan - Welcome To The Farm

Tim McGraw - Don't Take The Girl

The Band Perry - You Lie

Happy Thursday!

Target Tuesday #1

2011-07-19T19:56:00.001-04:00

I found this wonderful link up on Adventure's In Amber-Land. The linkup comes from fabulous but evil.

For my very first Target Tuesday I am going to stick to clothing found in the Calypso St. Barth line. The line has been out for two months and I have yet to pick anything up. For shame.

I am obsessed with ruffles! So pretty and feminine.

I am also obsessed with off the shoulder. And I love the detail of this dress.

I'm also obsessed with maxi dresses and I love the tie-dye look.

I eye this bag every time I go into Target. It is love.

Sangria!

2011-07-18T20:32:00.002-04:00

Do you know what to do when you have leftover oranges, lemons, and limes? Citrus fruits that are going to be thrown out if you don't use them ASAP?

You make sangria, obviously!

It didn't cross my mind yesterday as I was prepping the fruit to take pictures and share my recipe. It's quite easy:

1 orange
1 lemon
1 lime
1 cup strawberries
1 jar Maraschino cherries
4 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup Grand Marnier

Cut the orange, lemon, and lime thinly into half moons and if you want dice the strawberries and put into a container. Add the sugar and Grand Marnier. Let it soak overnight.

When you're ready to make the sangria you'll need a red wine and a bottle of lemon-lime or ginger ale soda (To cut calories use a diet soda. My mom picked these up for me and I didn't think to specify.)

Also, remember to chill the soda first if you want to drink right away. If not, you can put the sangria in the fridge...and wait.

Yummy fruit! Delicious all on it's own.

You'll need to open the bottle of wine. Like my bottle opener? Fancy and cute right? Don't use this. Unless you're Muscles McGee.

Use an easy bottle opener like this. You'll thank me later.

Add the wine and soda.

Pour a glass.

Enjoy!

It was a rough Monday. Can't you tell?

Salut!

Happy Birthday Gunney!

2011-07-18T08:34:00.000-04:00

He's wild.

He's crazy.

He slobbers.

He farts.

He snores.

His favorite games are tug-of-war and fetch. And by fetch I mean he makes you fetch him.

He gives lots of kisses.

And high fives.

He is full of excitement and love.

Happy Birthday Gunney!

Enjoy your new bone.

A Quick Lesson On Texting Etiquette

2011-07-17T10:58:00.000-04:00

One of my biggest pet peeves is when someone never texts/calls you when plans are changing. I am a go-with-the-flow type of girl when plans change I'm normally fine with it. That is unless 1 - I was really looking forward to said plans or 2 - they change and no one says anything about it!!

I won't bore you with specifics. I really just need a second to vent.

Please, for the Pete's sake, if something comes up or you change your mind about plans that have been made with a friend call them or text them and let them know! Luckily for me I'm not only a go-with-the-flow type gal, I'm also very independent so when I don't hear from someone when they say I should (or around the time they say I will) I move on and do my own thing.

And lastly, if you don't call or text when plans change, don't text later in the evening and act like nothing happened and go on about making plans. You might want to start off with an apology. Something along the lines of "Hey sorry I never got back to you, we got held up so and so". It's really just common courtesy. Especially when you're dealing with your friends.

So dear students, in conclusion of today's lesson I would like you to take away the following:

1 - Call/text your friends when you know plans are changing so they're not left hanging dry.
2 - Do not then text or call later and act as if nothing happened.

And, most importantly...

3 - Apologize!!! (It goes a long way.)

Friday Favorites Once Again

2011-07-15T09:14:00.001-04:00

I haven't done one of these in a while so since I'm trying to get back into the full swing of blogging...why not!!

I love this stuff! It smells so good and the way it makes your skin feel is fabulous.

I've finally gotten my invite code to this website and I was like a kid in a candy shop! Do any of you Pin?

Adirondacks chairs are my favorite. They're so comfy. They're best placed by...

Firepits! I love sitting by a fire on a summer night and eating...

S'mores! Mmmm, I love S'mores.

And speaking of S'mores, my favorite quote in the movie Sandlot is when they're in the tree house having a camp out and Ham offers Smalls a S'more and he says 'I haven't had anything yet so how can I have s'more of nothing?'

Never seen Sandlot...go watch it NOW. Best.movie.ever.

Happy Friday Ya'll!

What I've Read: My Horizontal Life

2011-07-14T07:26:00.000-04:00

This may be the only book on my 2011 Book List I'll get to. I've been sucked in to the world of Harry Potter and I might not leave. But more on that later.

I guess I started reading this in May. I'm not sure. Anywho...I love Chelsea Handler. I've read both Are You There Vodka? It's Me Chelsea and Chelsea Chelsea, Bang Bang. Both were hilarious and I would highly recommend them.

My Horizontal Life is Chelsea's first book and much like her others they are a collection of essays. This book focuses on her one night stands. If you aren't a fan of sexytime, I might suggest you skip this. I really enjoyed MHL. A friend of mine said this was by far her favorite Chelsea book. I don't know if I would say that, I've enjoyed all her books that much. I love books that make me laugh out loud while I'm sitting alone in the lunch room and this did not disappoint.

So please, read. And laugh. And thank me later.

OPI Shatter

2011-07-13T09:04:00.000-04:00

I'm probably a little late on this but I was looking for this far and wide for the longest time. And finally, a couple weeks ago (it might have been a couple of months ago, actually) my mom brought this little gem home for me.

I am obsessed. Have any of you tried it? I've had it in my case for a while now and finally decided to use it this weekend. I don't think I will ever tire of watching the polish "shatter".

And now? (This just goes to show how far behind I am in blogging...) They have all different shatters. Blue, red, white, and silver. I'm lusting after the silver hard.

I chose to go with a turquoise under the shatter for my first try. I was a little weary as to how it would turn out as the turquoise is NYC and it's very, very sheer. It worked out well and I'm happy with how much the turquoise pops under the black.

I did my toes to match but I'll save ya'll from that horror.