..Mrs. Southern Bride..

My Favorite Things: February Edition

2012-02-14T16:33:00.007-06:00

February is one of my favorite months out of the year, for numerous reason and blessings:

**Lot's of chocolate overdose going on!
**Spending time with my own Valentine!
**My birthday month!
**Pink and Red being acceptable colors.
**Watching Chick Flicks, because I can get away with it.
**Date nights and candle lit dinners in celebration of love.
**Our church Valentines Banquet (it's always fun!)
**Finding fun and humerous gifts for my husband.
**Valentine Cards, of course. ;-)

Roller Coasters, Photographs and Ponderings on Trust

2012-02-10T09:35:00.005-06:00

I married a man I trusted. And it was a trust like no other. The only person that really learned to know me, to hear me out. The most closed, dark placed of my heart was made light to his ears. Every day, we wake up and go about our day intertwining our lives and our hearts. He trusts me with his heart, his reputation. I trust him for protection, for faithfulness, for being my best friend always, till death to us part.

And every day we wake up together, we choose to trust in our Heavenly Father. We take each adventure, one step at a time. When our emotions run away in a roller coaster fashion, we trust in His timing to give us that peace which surpasses all understanding. My life is built on trust, knowing that someday He will fulfill all promises.

While I may not always understand this life, or the confusion that often awaits each turn, I trust that all things will work together for Good. Trust is a beautiful, sometimes painful, challenging aspect of my every day life.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

Life Updates...

2012-02-03T13:47:00.011-06:00

My little brother came to stay with use for the day this week, so I planned a few fun things. We hit up a couple of flea markets (he collects baseball cards!) and ate lunch at Starbucks. Hey, he picked it out by himself! ;-) After that we went home and ate supper with Josh. Then we decide to grab frozen custard...I chose the "Dream Lover": Marshmallow + Hot fudge with toasted pecans = HEAVEN. However, it will probably be a while before I can work up the courage to eat ice cream again! We finished the night off with I Love Lucy reruns. All favorite things from my child hood and I love that we get to spend time with the littlest bro. ;-)

Josh and I are going through some good changes, but we could use prayers for guidance and direction. It's funny how God can plant something in your heart and when you choose to run with it, He opens that up for more unexpected "leaps of faith". Just glad to know He is always faithful. :)

Happy Friday!

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Current Blessings

2012-01-24T09:28:00.009-06:00

**Cozy nights in. This last weekend we had very few plans, which allowed us to just relax. Sunday was wonderful...rainy, cold and perfect for watching White Collar & Subway take out. Complete with gooey chocolate chip cookies.

**Finding a Joshua Bell CD at one of my favorite used book stores. I love his music-soothing, elegant and reflective.

**Iced Toffee Nut Coffee, Warm Blueberry Muffins and long talks about our future together.

**Playing words with friends, scrabble and hanging with friends. Word games are my favorite!

**Photography assignments, finishing up editing projects, posting pictures and framing them around our home for enjoyment.

**New recipe ideas, starting the C25k program, Pilates, Old Books, reading through the most recent Victoria magazine and playing with Mr. Darcy (the rotten little four legged that he is! ;-) )

From Lavish Gatherings To Wodehouse

2012-01-13T09:10:00.005-06:00

This month, I've been reading through the story of Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen. I love the Austen period of lavish dances and gatherings, not to mention the factors of what it means to be a lady. My favorite storyline has been Pride and Prejudice for a long time. So, I thought it was high time for me to read along with the other characters, to see their view on the world. After that, I have a heap of classics to dive into...Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse, The Child From the Sea by Elizabeth Goudge and I would really love to sink my teeth into a Tolkein novel. I've never read the Lord of the Rings! *gasp* Most of my book loving friends find that hard to believe. Then, I'm always up for a good mystery or suspense novel and my favorite Lemony Snicket books (I'm finally nearing the end of the series!).

And since I've been a little under the weather, I'm certain that today will be filled with hot tea, old books and maybe some I Love Lucy Reruns. And Josh even bought me a bag of chocolate covered pretzels...he's so good to me!

My only other "bookish" goal for the year would be to find a quaint little book club that focus on hard back classic novels to delve into together.

What have you been reading? Or better yet, what's on your 'to read' list?

Choosing To Savor

2012-01-06T07:45:00.005-06:00

The past few weeks have been glorious. Amidst the Christmas and New Year's blur, I was able to soak it up and enjoy the moments. My work was cut back during those weeks and since most of my "shopping" was done ahead of time, I was able to focus on other more important aspects of the season. Even this past week has been one of extra sleep, easy schedules and very few items on my to do list. Yet, I know it's time to whip out the planner and get back into the swing of things. Perhaps with a "to do" list for the year or rather, list of goals.

I kept thinking I would write one of those "ode to 2011" posts, but really, there isn't much to say. It was a difficult year. It was an amazing year. In every single situation that Josh and I faced, we found God answering our prayers and providing for us in ways I couldn't have dreamed up if I tried. We grew as a couple-- we've changed, we laughed, we lost, we cried. That's how life works. The best part is knowing that our Father is in control. My word for 2011 was simplify, and boy howdy did I ever learn the art of that. Two yard sales and cleaning freak sessions, left me with a much more simplified life. Yet, I find myself falling back into old habits. But, it's a new year for new things and new changes.

And this year? I think I'll hang on to the word "Savor". I want to savor precious time with my Savior. Soak in his word and savor the truth between each passage. I want to savor precious time with my husband because life is short and I want to make as many memories as possible. I want to savor my life because it's fleeting, here for a moment...

LORD, what is man, that You take knowledge of him?
Or the son of man, that You are mindful of him?
Man is like a breath;
His days are like a passing shadow.
--Psalm 144:3-4

Blue For You...

2012-01-03T11:31:00.007-06:00

He's so good to me. So very, very good to me. He blessed me with a new camera this Christmas season! So I've been clicking away like a mad woman, reacquainting myself with settings. Few things bring me more joy than taking pictures of my handsome love.

Oh, and that gorgeous blue that's he's wearing? Picked out by Moi on a shopping excursion. A man in plaid is a fine thing to behold, in my humble opinion. ;-)

And the long break from blogging was wonderful. Spent 7 days vacationing...three in Missouri and four in Texas! Lots of pictures coming soon!

Book Review: The 60 Minute Money Workout

2012-01-03T08:00:00.002-06:00

When I chose to review The 60-Minute Money Workout by Ellie Kay, I was hoping for an out of the box approach. However, what I found was a fairly typical series of tips for getting your finances in order. One advantage of this book, was the format and layout of the information provides to help you out. If you need simple guidance or a change of heart in the direction of your finances, then this is great option for you. You can read more about the book or even sign up to review similar books by participating in Blogging For Books, from whom I received my copy. Happy reading!

Three More Sleeps 'Till Christmas!

2011-12-22T10:00:00.001-06:00

The child was born, the star shone bright
And love came down at Christmas time
-love came down

If there is one thing I could change about Christmas, it would be that time would slow down. I feel as if I'm ever clinging to last few days, hoping that somehow I can capture it and put it in a bottle fir safe keeping. For when Christmas passes, the coldest days of the year seem to spin me into a cycle of blues. The festive colors, carols and cares a mere memory. But, as we watched yet another version and somewhat overplayed "quote", I am struck by the words of Charles Dickens yet again: "I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all year". May we sew this upon the hearts and minds this year? Truly keep the spirit alive and well within us?

I may be somewhat immersed into the season. My books have been of the Christmas spirit since early November. If I could, I would wonder the streets aimlessly in view of Christmas lights, carols blasting and peppermint mocha's' in my hand...every single night. My heart would always be bursting with the JOY of the season. With peace and happiness over the greatest celebration of all time.

Thankfully, there are cameras, blogs and other outlets to document the memories. So I can save them in the days to come. And there is always Twelfth Night to celebrate, candle light and all.

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!

Our Christmas Home 2011 {twinkling lights and all!}

2011-12-19T16:35:00.014-06:00

This Christmas has been a beautiful season. It just seems to be more relaxed. I'm learning to savor the moments a little more. To count my blessings. And to thank my Father for the greatest gift of all... His son. Plus, I am thankful for another year with my love.

I decided to go with most of the decor we purchased last year. Most of our ornaments and tree decor was decked out with traditional Christmas colors: Green, Red, and Gold. For the mantel we added lights, stockings and a "Peace On Earth" sign.

We decorated while watching Holiday Inn with a roaring fire and yummy egg nog. I love little things that make "traditions" a little sweeter. Quite literally! ;-)

My Christmas Candy of choice this year was Ghiradelli Peppermint bark with DARK CHOCOLATE. It should have been named " Amazing Christmas Holiday Crack" because it is quite addictive and the perfect after dinner treat. I think one bag will be enough for this year, otherwise my jeans may not fit for New Year's.

My favorite gift wrap is the Snoopy & Gang. Just a little whimsy touch to the traditional look of our tree. And of course it matches my Peanuts collection of decor. :)

For the dining room table, I was able to pick out a few new pieces this year. I loved the old world gold items. I try to keep the sleigh filled with the Christmas Reece's Peanut Butter cups.

Our "Ornament" of the year was a four leaf clover. Since our big trip of the year was Ireland, it only seemed fitting to get one that reflected that. I love it!

For the traditional ornament exchange we host between ourselves, I gave Josh Peppy Le Pue ornament. It very much fits our personalities. Especially Josh's. ;-) For those of you that know us in real life, I'm sure you know what I mean by that. He gave me the "I <3 Chocolate" ornament. Can't imagine why he would have chose that. HA!

These little Christmas carolers were adorable. I found them at a Christmas "garage" sale. Two elderly ladies were hosting it and I had to stop to check it out. Ended up getting them for mere quarters, and I love them! Very "Dicken-ish" if I say so myself.

I've been reading through the Christmas Blessing for my 6th time. Since I was a teenager, this has been my book of choice for the Christmas season. The story never gets old. The tears and laughter never subside when reading. It touches my heart every. single. time. I wish everyone I knew would read this.

And center stage in our little home, is the little clear Nativity set. A simple remembrance for the season. I hope our hearts are filled with more love and thanksgiving than ever before.

Linking up with Christmas Home tours with Kelly's Korner, Keeping The Christmas Spirit Alive, Shabby Creek Cottage, Michaela Noelle, Ten June, Inspired Room, and The Nester!

marry, merry, memories {a celebration!}

2011-12-13T10:18:00.008-06:00

last night, we celebrated our annual ornament exchange.
because, three years ago i unwrapped a jewelry box.
it held a gorgeous charm bracelet.
but, no ring.
then, i opened an adorable set of Charlie Brown Christmas ornaments.
And dangling from the Peanuts Gang was the most gorgeous ring ever.
{sneaky, man, he is!}

this year, i chose mexican food for the celebration. Cantina Laredo! hello amazing salsa.
hello, fun, sweet memories with my favorite person.
and we exchanged ornaments to remember.

i love you babe. thank you for all the memories.

always,
--wifey

10 Things About Christmas {And the winner!}

2011-12-07T07:59:00.008-06:00

I love that we set aside a day out of the year to celebrate Jesus birth. Was it the actual day of his birth? Who knows. But, celebrating the most incredible miracle that took place many years ago...speaks so much to my heart. He will always be the reason for this season.
Celebrating not only my favorite time of year, but our Engagement Anniversary!! Getting engaged in December was such an incredible dream come true! And to think I 'thought' our engagement would have been many more months out. Tee hee.
There seems to be an intense understanding that it is more blessed to "give" than to receive. Sure, there's a scrooge or two here and there. But the kindness and community efforts that often bond together amazes me. If only Christmas would last the entire year.
Wearing red or green. Just because. ;-)
I love the festive decorations, cheesy Christmas songs and the smell of Christmas that seems to be everywhere. Cinnamon, pumpkin, chocolate, baking, evergreen, cider...all wrapped into one amazing smell. There's nothing quite like it.
Thinking up and planning special gifts for my husband. He loves surprises and LOVES to open gifts. When his eyes light up and he loves what I picked out? Priceless.
Spending time with friends and family. Making time to visit at Christmas parties and special events.
Picking out "our ornament" that sums up the year. Which, we will be doing this coming weekend. I can't wait!
Our annual White Elephant Party! We hosted it last night and it was a big success. Lots of laughter, food and fighting over gifts. It's the best!
For the hope that seems to twinkle from every tree...that is ever pointing upward. For the joy between others. For the love that was sent to us in a manger many years ago.

I just love Christmas!! What would your list look like?

And now, for the winner of the Shabby Apple Giveaway!!!! Rebekah! I will be in touch soon.

Linking up my image below:

Happy December!! {And Favorite Christmas Movies}

2011-12-01T08:31:00.015-06:00

Oh, December, how I love thee. Although my decorations have been up since November 22nd, I'm ready for the real Christmas festivities to begin. My fridge is already stocked with Christmas cookies (butter shortbread and cinnamon shortbread to be exact), my pantry is filled with fun treats to make and I'm ready to gear up for some amazing Christmas movie marathons...I love, love, love Christmas movies. Be it cheeseball or serious, romantic or comedy, I'm all for it! I wanted to list a few of my favorite movies and see what some of yours were. Perhaps you can introduce me to a new titles to check out!

When it comes to Charlie Brown Christmas, I'm all about it. Half my ornaments are from the Peanuts gang, my side table is decked out in the Charlie Brown Christmas Tree, Nativity Set and books. I usually watch it at least twice a year. This year, I'm set to show it to a friend of mine...she's never seen it! The best part of the entire movie, is when Linus shares the true meaning of Christmas. The fact that it still gets airtime and reminds me of what Christmas is all about still makes me teary eyed every time.

We both love Elf. And quote it all the time. And watch it all throughout the year. You either love it or hate it. ;-) Plus, I love Zooey in this movie. Her voice is just gorgeous when she sings and she's adorable.
We watched this while decorating the Christmas Tree this year. I hadn't seen it since I was a kid. Bing Crosby is always a hit in our house: he's charming, witty and such an amazing singer. This was a sweet movie with romance and a little comedy wrapped all in one.

Okay, Confession time: I think Tim Allen is hilarious. And Jamie Lee Curtis is funny in her own way. They make a perfect comedy duo in my humble opinion. I watch this movie at least two or three times a year. Oh, and last year I finally made the white chocolate pistachio candy. 10 points to whoever knows what part I'm referencing in the movie!

Classic, right? I love Jimmy Stewart. I love Bedford Falls. I love the angel with wings. I love everything about the movie. Sweet, romantic, funny and beautiful all rolled into one!

I watched this for the first time when we were married. I love the first one, but I have to admit, the second one was even better in my opinion. The scenes in New York City and Central park are just breathtaking! And I love the whole hotel episodes where he scares the hotel staff out of there wits. :D

I also have a special place in my heart for the cheesy, sentimental movies. The Christmas Shoes, Mrs. Miracle and pretty much any "made for tv" or "Hallmark" movie is fun in my book. I'm ready to hunt down some non traditional movies too!

Okay, I could go on and on for another hour about my favorite Christmas movies. But, I want to hear your favorite Christmas movies traditional or not so traditional. Share away! :)

PS. If you want to learn about producing great movies like these, this site is a helpful resource.

SHABBY APPLE GIVEAWAY!!

2011-11-28T09:10:00.007-06:00

I trust you all had a wonderful thanksgiving! I know I did. Actually, I have a fun giveaway for you that I'm very thankful for. I was contacted a couple of days ago about hosting a giveaway from Shabby Apple for my readers. Their dresses are adorable! Here's the dress that will be given away...

"Spanish Steps"

When I saw this Audrey Hepburn inspired dress, I had to pick it. Roman Holiday is one of my favorite classic films. Want to enter? Just read the entry rules below:

The mandatory entry? Is to like "Shabby Apple" on Facebook!

Please make sure you are a follower of this blog!

Also, here are additional entry options, leave a comment for each one you do!

Follow Shabby Apple on Twitter!

Follow The Shabby Apple Blog!

Follow me on Twitter!

Add me on Pinterest!

Additional details: Open to U.S. readers only. Giveaway will end on December 5th at! Okay ladies!! Get to posting.

The Real Deal

2011-11-21T11:31:00.009-06:00

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18

This morning, I had a happy post lined up. But, I decided to scratch that. A happier than thou post would be fake, because today...I'm feeling a little rough around the edges. I wish I could say that everything went as planned this weekend. I wanted to clean the house, decorate and spend time relaxing. Instead, my dishes are piling up because I forgot to turn on the dishwasher. I left my phone on silent, so I overslept by two hours. My house is not organized and clean--it spells disaster from one end to another. Thanksgiving is mere days away, and I still haven't made my shopping list. And more than likely, if you rang my door bell, I wouldn't answer because my hair looks akin to a porcupine.

But, that's life. I don't always have it together. Sometimes I lose perspective, lose my temper, and lose my focus. Today, I'm counting my blessings in a different way.

I am thankful for dirty dishes. Because in some homes, there are no dishes to put away.

I am thankful for my messy home. Because for some, there is no place to go home to.

I am thankful for hair that needs to be washed. For some, they have lost their hair to illness.

I am thankful for tears. For some, they can shed no more.

I am thankful for the good, the bad, the ugly. It's the life lessons in each moment that makes me stronger, more grateful and certainly more humbled than ever before.

PS. Online universities have religion classes if you would like to delve deeper into your faith! So check it out. :)

What about you? What are you thankful for today?

10 Things I Love About You

2011-11-16T14:37:00.008-06:00

The way you work so hard to provide for our little family, to make me happy and surprise me with things that I love. Your passion for our marriage is what keeps us together through the tough times.

The way you love the Lord and seek to serve those around you. "Be kind to one another" is something that comes so naturally to you, it humbles me. You've taught me more about forgiveness and true love than you will ever know.

The way you laugh. You can hear it for miles around and it's so hearty. I can't help but to smile and laugh right along with you, even through my tears at times.

The way you encourage me when I have a bad day, let me vent on the phone or in the car. Having that kind of patience and bearing amazes with every day.

The way you love your job and work so hard to get things done. When you bring home your work or stay late and take time to tell me about it...I love that.

The way you smile.

The way you aren't afraid to let people know we are a couple, but more importantly best friends.

The way you pursue your passions in guitar, cello, pasta, travel, movies, and architecture. I love your enthusiasm for every little thing that you love. The way you wrinkle your nose at mushrooms, ice cream and pork chops.

The way you share special moments with me, carve out time during lunch to talk on the phone and send me silly notes on e-mail. Those are the little things that make up the most special memories!

The way you live your life. You are the Psalms 1:3 man that I need.

Thanks for being you. I love you...

Peanut Butter, Pizza, and My Warped Humor

2011-11-14T09:20:00.000-06:00

I had peanut butter M&M's for first time three weeks ago. I could have jumped in and gone SWIMMING in those happy little bags of heaven. DOES ANYONE ELSE UNDERSTAND THIS ADDICTION? Please tell me I'm not the only one.

In other news, I took Josh out for a dinner date. Awwww...so sweet, huh? I thought so. *wink* I took him to a favorite Bistro or ours and dined on wood fire pizza. Then we tried to take a picture of ourselves, but I kept busting out laughing. I mean, here we are grown adults at a nice restaurant, and we are taking cheese-ball pictures! I like to think that people like us make the world go around. We finally got a picture with normal faces, but yellow skin. Oh well. I'm also addicted to Instagram. I wanna take a million pictures and print them off in those cute little post cards.I love making memories with that boy of mine. He's the best!

I am DYING to decorate for Christmas already. I'm going to blame Pinterest on my desire to decorate early. And I'm on the lookout for a great Christmas CD with classic artists. I love tunes by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and more. Oh, and the picture of the cow at Chick-Fil-A?? Another hilarious moment that captured my attention. I have a warped since of humor. Someone else out there laughed at that, right?

Yes, I used red and green text to satisfy my desire to decorate. Okay, I'm going to clean house and work out so I can pretend like those Peanut Butter M&M's didn't ruin my calorie count. Forgive the randomness of this post. Please?

What are you addicted too or laughing at this week?

Save this Holiday Season!

2011-11-14T06:04:00.001-06:00

I'm a excited to share with you a great website that can help you save money this holiday season: Savings.com coupons Through this web site you can hunt down great deals, coupons and money saving tips for your Thanksgiving Dinner. Whether you are going all out with a turkey, or simply catering a few side dishes, you should be able to find great deals with just the click of your mouse.

Each year, for my own family get together's I usually bring a side dish and a dessert. As much as I love cooking, it can get pretty expensive. By using coupons and watching the sales through money saving websites, I can greatly reduce my out of pocket expenses. My coupon abilities are limited due to time constraints, but with online options, that doesn't worry me anymore.

This season I have a few items on my wish list that I want to purchase: holiday candy to create fun snack foods for Christmas and New Year's, as well as matching party plates, napkins, etc. We host several parties through the holiday season that range from Thanksgiving to New Year's. Being able to find some great money saving deals is the reason we can handle sharing this special time of year with our friends and family. What's on your list to purchase this holiday season?

Blessed To Be His

2011-11-07T08:14:00.007-06:00

Since last week, I've been "tweeting" my 30 days of thanks. It goes hand in hand with my usual posts about blessings...but lately, I've been thinking a lot about our marriage. About why I'm thankful for Josh and for sharing life with him. There are so many things that he does, without complaining just because he knows it makes me happy. And he does so many things without complaining because he knows it is something that will benefit our little family...

He's is faithful to keep me accountable in my work, my dreams and in church. He's always listening to my constant babble of about 500 million projects that I'd like to tackle. And reminds me of when it's time to refocus...

He doesn't mind walks down memory lane or doing special things to keep the sparks flying. I don't think I'll ever be able to put into words how much I love him or how grateful I am that he chose me and keeps choosing me every day to be his wife. Why God gave me such a faithful and selfless man, I'll never know. I am blessed to be his.

Hello, Sweet November!

2011-11-02T11:15:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, I felt like dancing as we welcomed November! One day closer to the holidays...yet at the same time, I feel torn, because the beautiful colors of fall begin to fade. So I'm taking all the pictures that I can. At least we get to welcome the season in with bright and beautiful colors of Christmas, right? We usually start decorating towards the end of November, so I'm eagerly counting the days. In fact, we even watched Elf already! A couple of friends had never seen it...to our dismay...so we had to enlighten them. :)

November also marks the 30 days of thanks challenge, which normally circles the Facebook world, but I'm doing mine on my Twitter. Are you participating? If so, share, because I'd love to follow your 30 days of thanks!!

Today, I'm counting my blessings for the following lovelies...

#133 for "Red Cup Days" and Egg Nog Latte's.
#134 for new recipes to try.
#135 for a fun photo shoot (can't wait to share!)
#136 for sweet Christmas stories to read.
#137 for the tiniest details that He always supplies for us.

What are you thankful for today?

Book Review: The Christmas Singing

2011-11-02T08:12:00.003-05:00

Mattie was left heartbroken after a long courtship to Gideon. To find herself again, she packs her bags and heads off to live with her brother. During her time there, she builds a successful Cake Decorating business. As she finds joy in her work, tragedy strikes. This tale is set in the heart of Amish territory, filled with much mystery and romance. A perfect book to snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate & roaring fireplace...

If you haven't read Cindy Woodsmall's books before, I'd encourage you to do so! You can read more of my reviews on her works by visiting Blogging For Books! I received this copy in exchange for my review on Mrs. Southern Bride.

Fallish Love! And our favorite recipe.

2011-10-27T10:48:00.010-05:00

Fall is such a perfect time of year. It's cool enough to wear a jacket and sip on warm drinks, while toasting by the fire. I love adding a little fall decor to our home, but not too much. In November, I start bringing out the Christmas decor...yes, I'm one of those people. ;-) But, 'till then, I'm loving our little bits of decor here and there. Here are a few of my favorite things this year:

I made this wreath for about $5. I know it's a little simple, but I liked it, plus it looks great on our black door! ;-)

These monogrammed pumpkins are the "centerpiece" for our dining table!! I'm in love with them!! My mother in law took me shopping one day and talked me into it! When we saw them, they were 50% off!! Happy score! You know she had to twist my arm to get 'em...haha. ;-)

If there is one thing I remember about my mom keeping home, was the way the house always smelled cozy! We use to make a seasonal trek to a candle factory called "Aromatique". These days, we don't get out that way very often, so I have to a dig a little harder to find the perfect scent. This year, I was shopping at target when I saw this candle... it spells like pumpkin pie with an extra dose of cinnamon!!!! Josh is particular about pumpkin scents, but he loved this one. Perfect. :)

Okay, this really doesn't fall into the decorating category...but it might as well be. It's so pretty! Our favorite soup hands down is Sweet Potato Soup!!! It's creamy, seasoned, a little sweet...and probably one our favorite comfort foods ever. We made it last night and served it up in China bowls that we inherited (we rarely use them they are so old!). Have you tried it? If not, the recipe is below!

Sweet Potato Soup
3-4 Sweet Potatoes: peeled, diced & cooked until tender
1 16 ounce can of chicken broth
1/2 cup milk or half & half
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons sugar or honey (brown sugar is best imho!)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

In a blender, cream sweet potatoes & milk by rotating them in 1 cup increments. Add the mixture to a large saucepan and add broth. Bring to a simmer. Add butter, sugar and cinnamon. Bring to a light boil. Before you serve, at a teaspoon of cream to the bottom of the bowl and add soup. Serves great alongside finger sandwiches or french bread!

Okay, what are you in love with this fall? Did you decorate? Share your own links if you want...I always love getting decorating and seasonal ideas from other bloggers.

BTW, People who love cooking yummy things sometimes look into online accredited
colleges for culinary arts classes. Check it out!

Splendor

2011-10-25T13:57:00.010-05:00

#128 For sunny days and adventurous dates with the Mr. Pedersen
#129 For long walks, hikes and sunsets at the park.
#130 For pumpkin muffins, iced coffee and quiet times with Jesus.
#131 For hymn sings and fellowship with like minded believers.
#132 For yet another day, another breath of life.

It's all a gift, every single one...

Heaven Is For Real (A Review)

2011-10-25T08:26:00.002-05:00

Heaven is for Real is the story of the Burpo family. It details their journey through heartbreak-- which many jokingly referred to them as, "a modern day story of Job". After a series of serious health problems, financial woes, the family nearly lost four year old Colton. With simple honestly and boldness, Colton shared details of his glimpses of heaven after he make a victorious recovery.

Read the story and have your faith renewed in the beauty and splendor that is the mystery of heaven. It will also be a simple reminder "to have faith as a child". I laughed and cried along with the trials, tribulations and pure moments of joy that this family experienced.

I hope you pick up a copy of “Heaven is For Real” and share in the child like wonder. If you do, be sure to let me know what you think of the story!

I received this book through Book Sneeze, a blogging for books program. You can check it out for yourself by visiting their website! You can check out more of my recent book reads through Good Reads as well!

A Movie Night!

2011-10-21T08:25:00.003-05:00

I'm certain I've seen these movies no less than 50+ times. And I laugh out loud (annoyingly so) every single time. I'm confident that Steve Martin and Martin Short are at there very best in these adorable classics. Plus, Kimberly Paisly-Williams is just too stinking cute!

Last night, my friends Kristina came over and we watched the above films, along with our favorite snack combo: salty popcorn + junior mints. BEST SNACK EVER. I'm already craving them and it's only 8:24am. HA!

So, what's your favorite movie classic to watch over and over? Movie snack combo? I love learning and trying new things. Happy Friday, Ya'll!

BTW, Some people with a passion for movies can find info about film production classes from Guide to Online Schools.