There's something about the northwest US that just sings to my heart. Husband and I have been trying to decide where we want to go for our birthdays (sort of tradition). So when I saw a deal for a beautiful seaside inn on the coast of Washington (complete with a bonfire & s'mores kit, bicycles and breakfast picnic baskets!), I jumped on it. 2.5 hours from Portland, 3.5 from Seattle, and right on the ocean, I couldn't think of a better place to ring in our coming years. Now to find plane tickets....
Highlights:
1) That whole productivity list I made on Sunday? Yeah...well, at least I stuck to part of it! No TV. We sat, ate at the dinner table and listened to music. May not be very "productive", but it was certainly fulfilling.
2) Speaking of dinner, husband made soup. It was italian chicken sausage & white bean, made with vodka sauce & cream. Light? No. Delicious? YES.
3) Taxes. Bane of my existence. Second place? Tax forms. Why, oh why, dear printer, must you stop working on the day before I have to get tax forms in the mail? What's that? A lesson on procrastination, you say? Bah. I won't procrastinate on throwing you out the flippin window, jerk.
Love & Long Beach, WA,
K
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Jan 29 - The Day We Believed It (or Not!)
Sunday is tied with Thursday for the position of my favorite day. God certainly knew what he was doing with that whole "day of rest" commandment! Sunday was spent worshiping with my CLC fam, Chicken E, teenagers, grocery shopping, and the best broccoli I've ever eaten (and that's saying something considering that I don't really like broccoli!) The better part of the afternoon was spent with the aforementioned teenagers at Ripley's Believe it Or Not, and the Palace of Wax. The former: fun as always, and I enjoyed seeing the kids get weirded/grossed out. The latter: whose job is it to make those wax figures?! They should seek other career paths, I think...some of those things are downright creepy (and not at all accurate). I was particularly offended by the train wreck that was the Harry Potter crew. Sad. Who cares about how well you made Obama, WHAT ABOUT HARRY?! ahem.
Highlights:
1) So, the broccoli: Toss florets in olive oil, sea salt, cracked pepper and garlic. Roast at 425 degrees for about 20 minutes. As soon as its out of the oven, sprinkle with lemon juice and parmesan cheese, and toss.Thanks, Pinterest!
2) Thought about blogging. Didn't blog. Was totally OK with this decision (see my very first post)
3) Made a list of how I can make my week more productive. We'll see how that goes, since I have a not-so-great track record of sticking to my own well-crafted plans.
Love & Roasted Broccoli,
K
Highlights:
1) So, the broccoli: Toss florets in olive oil, sea salt, cracked pepper and garlic. Roast at 425 degrees for about 20 minutes. As soon as its out of the oven, sprinkle with lemon juice and parmesan cheese, and toss.Thanks, Pinterest!
2) Thought about blogging. Didn't blog. Was totally OK with this decision (see my very first post)
3) Made a list of how I can make my week more productive. We'll see how that goes, since I have a not-so-great track record of sticking to my own well-crafted plans.
Love & Roasted Broccoli,
K
Jan 28 - The Day I Danced In My Kitchen
Not exactly a perfect title, since I happen to dance in my kitchen quite often, but it sounded better than anything else I did that day, so there ya go. I had a rare Saturday morning off, which I savored - windows open to catch the sun, music playing, and me in my happy place: the kitchen. There's something perfect about making a lasagna from scratch while Rosemary Clooney sings "Mambo Italiano" to me. And, in my not-so-humble opinion, that was one dang good lasagna. I didn't get to eat it fully assembled (it was for another family), but the individual pieces were pretty tasty!
Highlights:
1) Its so nice to have creative people in your life. My cousin's best friend and I got together and made a sign for sweet baby Lake. Spending only $1 on supplies, I think the result was super cute! Of course, you can't really go wrong when you're using a combo of twigs, twine, cute ribbon and scripture.
2) I finished listening to Anne of Green Gables. Loved, loved, loved it! You know you're falling in love with a story when you find reasons to stay in your car longer so you can continue listening.
3) Husband was away Sat night staying with his dad, so I was on my own. As I usually do in his absence, I slept on the couch. I have yet to figure out my own logic regarding why it feels safer to sleep there, mere feet from the door, than in my bed in the back of the house.
Love & Lasagna,
K
Highlights:
1) Its so nice to have creative people in your life. My cousin's best friend and I got together and made a sign for sweet baby Lake. Spending only $1 on supplies, I think the result was super cute! Of course, you can't really go wrong when you're using a combo of twigs, twine, cute ribbon and scripture.
2) I finished listening to Anne of Green Gables. Loved, loved, loved it! You know you're falling in love with a story when you find reasons to stay in your car longer so you can continue listening.
3) Husband was away Sat night staying with his dad, so I was on my own. As I usually do in his absence, I slept on the couch. I have yet to figure out my own logic regarding why it feels safer to sleep there, mere feet from the door, than in my bed in the back of the house.
Love & Lasagna,
K
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Jan 27 - The Day I Was Accosted (and wrote another long post...)
Ok, so maybe accosted is a strong word...but it got you interested, yes? Semantics are the spice of life. :) So, on to what ACTUALLY happened...I work in a building with a gated garage, accessible only with an employer-issued badge. As I was returning from lunch and going to swipe my badge for entrance, I noticed there were two guys waiting in the exit lane, looking a little frustrated. Allergic to all forms of confrontation, I already started getting anxious. They asked me to let them out, and I (self-surprisingly) asked them how they got there in the first place. They admitted that they followed someone in, but now couldn't get out, and they'd really like it if I could just give them my badge to let them exit. I kept pressing, though, asking if they worked here, and they answered with a scoffing laugh and said with a smirk "No. We were looking for a car...not your car though." Well, now that was just irritating. I politely refused to let them pass, but told them I'd call someone to let them out. I pulled through into the garage and second later I heard squealing tires and watched in my rear-view mirror as they quickly reversed, hopped the curb and exited through the gate I had just gone through. Doh.
I walked into work, wondering if I'd done the right thing. Its been a constant battle my whole life; my sense of justice/love of rules and my desire to not be a total dork are always at odds (think "hall monitor"), and this was no exception. Still, I proceeded to tell the receptionist about the encounter and she agreed that we needed to tell security. I was a hero (or a complete failure for letting them get away...)! Well, in my head, anyway. I forgot to mention that I passed two police officers right before entering the garage. I worked up quite a vibrant story in my head about these roustabouts and their unlawful ways. Alas, no news stories of "two guys in a car who look kinda suspicious" made the news.
Highlights:
1) Important lesson learned today: once you have one cookie at snack day, all hope is lost and you might as well eat 10.
2) Had an incredibly unsucessful lunch shopping trip. This included trying on a dress that fit me like a trashbag and some pants that made my lower body look like it was trying to escape the terrible torture trap I'd subjected it to. Naturally, I went and had another cookie.
3) Started a list inspired by this lovely gal: The Pilot's Wife. She's doing a "30 by 30" list, comprised of things she'd like to check off by her 30th. My head started swimming with THAT idea, so I settled for a "12 in '12". I am currently debating on whether or not to take this public....time will tell.
Love & Law-Defending Citizens(or badge-carrying, rule-loving employees),
K
I walked into work, wondering if I'd done the right thing. Its been a constant battle my whole life; my sense of justice/love of rules and my desire to not be a total dork are always at odds (think "hall monitor"), and this was no exception. Still, I proceeded to tell the receptionist about the encounter and she agreed that we needed to tell security. I was a hero (or a complete failure for letting them get away...)! Well, in my head, anyway. I forgot to mention that I passed two police officers right before entering the garage. I worked up quite a vibrant story in my head about these roustabouts and their unlawful ways. Alas, no news stories of "two guys in a car who look kinda suspicious" made the news.
Highlights:
1) Important lesson learned today: once you have one cookie at snack day, all hope is lost and you might as well eat 10.
2) Had an incredibly unsucessful lunch shopping trip. This included trying on a dress that fit me like a trashbag and some pants that made my lower body look like it was trying to escape the terrible torture trap I'd subjected it to. Naturally, I went and had another cookie.
3) Started a list inspired by this lovely gal: The Pilot's Wife. She's doing a "30 by 30" list, comprised of things she'd like to check off by her 30th. My head started swimming with THAT idea, so I settled for a "12 in '12". I am currently debating on whether or not to take this public....time will tell.
Love & Law-Defending Citizens(or badge-carrying, rule-loving employees),
K
Friday, January 27, 2012
Jan 26 - The Day Lake Brought the Sunshine
After visiting with Jeff & an officially induced Steph, we headed to bed on Wednesday night close to 11. Thoughts of soon-to-be-born cousins danced in my head, but little did I know how soon! I woke with a start around 3:45 to both of our phones ringing – things were moving quicker than expected and Lake was really on his way! I laid in bed for a few minutes, sleepily trying to decide if I was going to get up and go, but it was a rather short (and useless) debate, and within about 15 minutes I was headed out the door, while Jon slept soundly. The roads were empty and slick with rain, the skies still heavy with the storms from the day before. I got to the hospital doors we had entered through the night before, only to find them locked tight! Thank God, a hospital employee arrived at the same time I did and let me in. Dressed for work (in heels), I click-clacked through the empty corridors, walk-running my way to join Lake’s [arm-waving] welcome party. Two of my aunts (the third, grandma-to-be was in the delivery room), my uncle, and Steph’s best friend were there anxiously waiting, and the other set of grandparents soon joined our party. We eagerly watched through the small glass panes of the L&D hallway doors, jumping at any movement from anyone dressed in blue scrubs. We didn’t wait long, though: at 4:41, we got the text: HE’S HERE! The following moments were filled with hugs, near-tears, and photos, and soon, a very proud new Grandma, followed by an even prouder new daddy, emerged to tell us that sweet Lake had arrived, had a bit of trouble working out those new lungs, but otherwise he was doing great. Soon, the great-grandparents arrived to join the celebration. We got to see photos, we ooh’d and ahh’d, but we needed to see that little man in person! We not so patiently waited and were soon rewarded with a personal appearance and finally set eyes on our newest loved one. He is GORGEOUS! It never ceases to amaze me how God orchestrates that whole process. If that child only knew, and I hope someday he will, how many prayers have already been spoken for him, and just how much love welcomed him. Already blessed, indeed!
I decided to head to work a little early, to beat the traffic and make sure I could leave on time (to get back there!). After grabbing a very large, much needed cup of coffee, I was on my way. I watched the sun come up and the skies begin to clear. I sat at my desk, looking out on a bright morning and listened to co-workers chat about what a nice day it was shaping up to be, and I had to agree. The rain had gone, a new life had come and he brought a beautiful, sunshiny day with him. Welcome to the world, Lake Maxfield Brannon! May you carry that brightness with you all the days of your lovely little life.
Highlights:
1) Longest. Workday. Ever. Once the adrenaline wore off, I realized just how tired I was. It was worth it, but I had an incredibly difficult time concentrating on actual work! I much preferred trolling fb for new photos of Lake…
2) It was only AFTER I left that I stopped to realize I didn’t actually get to hold him! How did I miss that?! Naturally, we HAD to go back now.
3) Came back to see Lake, and his super tired trooper parents, and we brought the little guy his first birthday cake. Since we didn’t know what flavor he likes, we just got mom’s fav. :) Also there was the first little man in my life, my nephew Tavin. He’s got a little bro coming his way shortly, so it was so sweet to watch him with that baby. I think he’s going to be one heck of a good big bro! Just a few months til another long[er] post like this!!!
Love & New Life,
K
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Jan 25 – The Day We Got Wet & Waited
4 ½ inches of rain = a wet, wet, wet Wednesday. Granted, we needed the rain, but sometimes I wish it would choose to spread itself out a little instead of purging the skies all at once. Am I really blogging about the weather?? Who does that…
Luckily, despite the deluge, good things abounded. Like, really good things! This post is a little boring because I’m saving all the good stuff for the next one! Anywho…
Highlights:
1) Went to a stretch class at lunch – nearly fell asleep in the “self-relaxation” part at the end where you just lay still for 5 minutes. Hope I didn’t snore and interrupt someone’s zen…
2) COUSIN WAS INDUCED TODAY! Went and hung out at the hospital, grabbed the parents-to-be some grub, and I looked on with pity as her L&D room turned into somewhat of a boys club/frat house with all the men in our family + a few guy friends. Still, I think it’s worth a little noise to know that you have such strong support, especially as a new dad.
3) Meanwhile, my other cousin (soon to be Aunt), guarded the waiting room with the fierceness that only Lily Jonas can bring. Armed with fig newtons and cheez-its, she kept a faithful watch over the long night ahead...
Love & Anticipation,
K
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Jan 24 - The Day I Argued With Myself
The plan was to start the day off with a 3 mile buddy run. I, however, left my buddy stranded since I woke up 10 minutes before our scheduled meeting time. Still, I brought my running gear for a lunch run to make up for the morning. Then it just started looking so ominously cloudy and gloomy....I argued with myself for, no lie, at least 2 hours on whether I should run, take a nap, or go to the grocery store on my break. I had settled on the store option, mostly cause I like shopping for food, but decided at the last minute to take the plunge and run. A short run. With hills. AND run to the store to get a snack. I had to do some walking, but it got done. And I'm sure the folks at Sprouts loved that I graced them with my post-run sweaty presence. The good thing about arguing with yourself is that you still always win. :)
Highlights:
1) Found a yum post-run snack on clearance, something called a Barookie, made by Eoni. Of course, I also found a box of whole wheat fig cookies that were not on sale, but I bought (and ate) anyway.
2) Met with my favorite Tuesday night people (small group) to plan out the next few months of our meetings. Colossians, Italian food and girls nights, here we come!
3) At group, I had the chance to witness true friendship in action between a few of my friends. So thankful for people who listen, pray and talk, all with the heart of Christ.
Love & Longer Than Usual Posts About Nothing,
K
Highlights:
1) Found a yum post-run snack on clearance, something called a Barookie, made by Eoni. Of course, I also found a box of whole wheat fig cookies that were not on sale, but I bought (and ate) anyway.
2) Met with my favorite Tuesday night people (small group) to plan out the next few months of our meetings. Colossians, Italian food and girls nights, here we come!
3) At group, I had the chance to witness true friendship in action between a few of my friends. So thankful for people who listen, pray and talk, all with the heart of Christ.
Love & Longer Than Usual Posts About Nothing,
K
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