Whatever the circumstances

Aurora 2012 {A Video}

2012-02-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

I've always been very fascinated with outer space and for a long time really wanted to be an astronaut when I grew up. Seeing this one day is on my bucket list.

Happy Friday!

Tuesday's Love Letters (a little late)

2012-02-16T19:04:00.000-05:00

Thanks for being patient. All of you teachers out there know that the week before vacation is always the worst, and I haven't been feeling super well all week so I haven't really had much energy once I got home each day. Thankfully vacation week starts Friday afternoon so I can get caught up (and maybe even ahead) in my blogging!

So finally, I am getting to my Tuesday Love Letters.

To My Valentine (the hubs),
This year we didn't really celebrate Valentine's day, because I had class and you had to study. But you can be my valentine every day of the year if you would like? You did give me a beautiful necklace, which I can't wait to wear on a date night in March after you take the BAR (T-14 days). Thank you for being patient and loving with me all week even though I have been a bit crabby. I love you more than my top 5 favorite foods.

Dear Dad,
You were my first Valentine. I love that you still get me a card every year and I love that all those years before I had a husband (or a boyfriend) you always made sure to get me flowers on Valentine's day. Thanks for making me always feel special. I know now that I am married I don't need you as much as I did before, but you will always be my dad and I will always be your little girl.

Dear baby sister (aka Stinie),
I really have enjoyed getting to know you better as an adult since D and I moved back to Massachusetts. When we were little we may not have always seen eye-to-eye but now that we are both adults I count you as one of my closest friends. I love talking to you over coffee and hanging out with you and your beau. Sometimes I think you are growing up too fast, but then I remember I am growing up fast too.

Dear big sis,
I know that your babies take up a lot of your attention, but I don't mind because they are pretty darn cute. Thanks for being my first friend and for putting up with your 'little sister' all those years. Remember when you went off to college and I cried and cried? Now we are grown and live in neighboring towns. I love being able to see you more often and watch you be the best mommy around. When D and I have kids, you will be the first one I call for mommy advice.

I Love Mail

2012-02-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

Monday I got a few things in the mail, just in time for Valentine's Day.

I got this fabulous Love Banner (which I won last week) from Elizabeth's Shop. Looks good right? And I got this headband from Rouge and Whimsy. Can't wait to wear it!

Disclaimer: This is going to be a really busy week, so my posts are going to be short and sweet (and maybe even nonexistent some days). I promise to do my 'Tuesday Love Letters' Post. But it may be 'Thursday Love Letters' this week. I am going to be working all day today (Tuesday), then I have a 3 hour orientation for new teachers at my school (since it is my first year there) and a 3 hour grad class after that. So Valentine's day will be celebrated a bit late this year for the hubs and I.

Blogging 'awards' and weekend update

2012-02-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

So I have a confession, I didn't take a single picture this weekend, not a one, and I actually enjoyed putting the camera down and not documenting my every move. My weekend was essentially very uneventful aside from a fabulous valentine's card making party my dear friend Kim hosted on Saturday night. Other than that I literally watched all of season one of Parenthood, spend 5+ hours working on grad school work and took several naps. I would call it a successful weekend.

So since I have absolutely no pictures to share with you, I am going to catch up with some business I have been needing to take care of. I have been awarded some blogging awards from several friends of mine! Basically the way this thing works, is that people who like your blog write about your blog (or put a link) on their blog, and you get a little exposure on their blog and maybe some new visitors.

Anyways, I was awarded both the 7x7 Link Award and the Liebster blog award.

So firstThank the person (people) who gave it to you:

My dear friend Chrissie from high school who has the cutest kiddos (check out her blog for some great pics of them) gave me the 7x7, Also Jen from Migonis Home, who just so happens to be my best friends older sister, also gave me the Liebster and the 7x7, and two of my new blogging friends Beth from Until Only Love Remains and Laura from Our Reflections.

Share 7 things about yourself

My top five favorite foods are almost embarrassingly unhealthy (aside from one): Salmon, French fries, Cupcakes, Hot dogs, and Anything with Peanut butter
My house is currently a mess, and I am not ashamed.
I love to Sew, but I have only known how to sew since this summer
I really want a dog, but husband says we have to wait until we have a yard (I agree)
As soon as I get home from work I throw on my sweatpants
3 months ago I only had 14 followers
I had an amazingly hard time coming up with 7 things to share with you

Share 7 blog posts in the following categories

Most Beautiful: Our Story. I love my husband so much and I love our story.

Most Helpful: Christmas Stocking Tutorial. This was my first tutorial that I actually came up with all by myself. I am pretty proud of that!

Most Popular: Christmas Tour was my most read post. I think I linked it on the Nester for one of her link ups

Most Controversial: I am pretty sure there is nothing controversial on the blog or at least not that I know of

Most Surprisingly Successful: Books of 2011. I just typed up my book list, but I got a whole lot of hits on this one!

Most Underrated: Dream Adventures. I actually really found this one funny, but I guess you really have to know me to get it! :)

Most Pride Worthy: The Husband's graduation from Law School

Nominate 7 Other Bloggers

The Lovely Kelli at Daily Polkadots, She is a wonderful Woman of God who shares her love for pretty things, God and her Boyfriend
Kelly from Life is a Balancing Act who writes about her adorable son, being a mom and design
Liz from Behind the Scenes she is a 1st grade teacher, wife and Christ follower who writes about her genuine faith and every day life
Jen from Migonis Home. Okay so I know she gave this to me, BUT, I still wanted to give it back. She is seriously a real life Martha Stuart. The amazing things she can do with a piece of junk from the side of the road.
Elizabeth from Only Love Remains (again I know she also gave me the award, but I do really love her blog) who writes about her life and learning to find herself.

And I know that is only 5 people, but it is the best I can do...

This post has already taken way too long.

Weekly Favorites

2012-02-10T16:00:00.000-05:00

You must check out Operation Beautiful from Whispering Sweet Nothings .
Blogging Tips {A Picture is Worth} from oh Amanda (check out her whole blogging tips series while you are there).
Love these prints by Judy Kaufmann on Etsy
Make a Laced Trimmed Layer Skirt by Oh, Sweet Joy!
YUM! How to make Cake Pops from a Beautiful Mess
How to handle negativity in the Blog world from After Nine to Five
Check out these Salted Caramel Cupcakes from Life is a balancing act.

Source: savvysugar.com via Allison on Pinterest

6 winter date ideas!

Source: the36thavenue.com via Allison on Pinterest

Decorating with neutrals

Source: design-seeds.com via Allison on Pinterest

Love these colors together

That's all I have for this week. Have a fab weekend. We are suppose to get some snow, just a few inches but with our snow-less winter, a few inches is exciting!

Source: flickr.com via Allison on Pinterest

Honey Harvest {A Video}

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Have you seen this yet?

Watch it.

It's beautiful.

Happy Friday.

Life lately

2012-02-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

Life lately has been filled with studying, grading and lots of neglecting of house work. I can not wait until February Break (we get a week off in Feb) and D can't wait until March 2nd (he will be done with the BAR then!). Until then, we will continue on.

In other news, I actually have had a very lucky two weeks! In the last week and a half I won 4 giveaways! Seriously, I have never won anything in my life and now I won 4 things in just under 2 weeks. I am not superstitious but, I do feel like God is blessing me in little ways right now.

So what have I won? My Memories Suite Software, a LOVE burlap Banner made by Beth (seen here in her shop and soon to be seen in my house), Shop Credit and Ad space from Rouge and Whimsy and Design Credit from Small Bird Studios (can't wait to cash that one in). I would say it was one successful run of winning!

My nephew Levi at Panera after we went to see Pompeii.

Pre-half time show Super Bowl Sunday.

Dishes need to be done//Perfect Breakfast Sunday Morning//Grad School Reading

Room {A Book Review}

2012-02-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

I recently finished reading the book Room by Emma Donoghue. The book, although based on a very sad and heartbreaking premise is a heartwarming and captivating book. It is narrated by 5 year old Jack, who has spent his whole life trapped in 'Room' with his mom. His mom, who was kidnapped, gave birth to him in the very room, and his whole world revolves around what he can see in this small space.

I actually listened to the book, which I highly recommend if you have the ability to do so. It is likely your local library either has it for mp3 download or in disc format. The readers did an excellent job (there is a different reader for Jack, Ma and Old Nick) and I think it added to the atmosphere of the book to hear Jack describe his little world. I loved how the author drew you into room, she did such a fabulous job describing room through Jack's innocent eyes that you truly could 'see' room through his eyes. She really did her research with child development and as a person in the field of education I really appreciated the themes of child development that ran through the book. Seeing the world through Jack's eyes helps you to understand how any child would see their own world. This perspective also allows Donoghue to describe the events in the book through innocent eyes while you gain insight through your own adult understanding or the world.

Honestly, it is a lovely, uplifting and heartwarming book about the love between a mother and her child, and what she will do to protect him and give him a better life.

If you decide to read it, try to find a long period of time to sit down and read or listen to it, you won't regret it.

Tuesday Love Letters

2012-02-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

For the Month of February in honor of Valentine's day I am going to be writing Tuesday Love Letters to my husband and a others who I hold dear to my heart!

To my better half,

This weekend not only did you take a 6 hour practice test for the BAR and study for several hours, you took me on two fabulous dates and helped me with both the laundry and the dishes. You're the best husband a girl could have. I can't wait till the BAR is over so I can spend more time with you.

Dear New Readers and Faithful Followers,

You are the reason this blog exists. Thanks for reading, leaving lovely comments and encouraging me. I was shocked to find out how many of you have also lived for a period of time with out TV (or are currently doing so)! I am humbled each time I get a new follower and blessed by each one of your comments.

Dear Allie,

I am so excited that you are getting married this summer!!!!!! No quantity of exclamation points could express my true excitement. I can't wait to celebrate your perfect wedding day and hope I can help you plan even though I live approximately 1,200 miles from you. Guess what, I love you enough to drive 1,200 miles on my April break to come see you. Can't wait! You are one of my dearest and oldest (not in a you are old way though) friends. I truly feel so blessed to have you as a friend and I hope Stephen knows how lucky he is to be marrying you.

To my newest niece Ruby,

I love you with all my heart even though I have never met you. I am hoping I don't have to wait until you are walking and talking to meet you for the first time, but even if I do, know that I love you to the moon and back and if I could come right now, I would do it in a heart beat. You will be one tough cookie with those big brothers of yours. Keep them in line and remember they love you and just want to protect you.

And the winner is Jessica L. Congrats Jessica.

Our Weekend

2012-02-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

This weekend I went to see the Pompeii Exhibit at the Museum of Science in Boston with my sisters and my mom. The exhibit was one of my favorite special exhibits I have every seen. I learned a lot about Pompeii and really enjoyed seeing the artifacts. The most haunting part of the exhibit were the body casts. When they uncovered the city, there were hundreds of people found under the ash. The form of their bodies was preserved and the way the people were actually sitting or laying when they died was preserved. It was both heartbreaking and facinating.

Sunday D and I went to look at two places we are interested in buying (possibly). We still haven't made a decision and may look at a few more single family homes before we do make a decision. It is very exciting but also very stressful. With D studying for the BAR we don't really need the added stress of finding our first home, but we are looking anyways.

Sunday night we watched the super bowl at my parents house with the rest of my fam. The game was a bit disappointing, and I may have slept through the whole last quarter, but it was fun to hang out with the fam.

Because it is late and I am tired, you will have to wait till later this week to see the pics from tonight.
zzzzzz
I am practically already sleeping.

*if this post sounds a bit disjointed, very sorry, too tired to edit*

Weekly Favorites

2012-02-04T14:17:00.000-05:00

For your weekend enjoyment I have some fabulous links! I hope you check them out.

A few great photography tips from A Beautiful Mess: Photographing with a sun flair and Outdoor photos

DIY Wedding Guest Book from Lilly White

A couple of good posts about simplifying life here and here plus a link up for you to add your own post

Love this post from 36 Avenue about how we are all unique and should embrace "our accents"

Free Printable art round up from The Real Housewives of Bucks County

Going to try these Swedish Brownies from Jen at Migonis Home since I am Swedish (by marriage of course)

I loved this post from Alissa at Rags to stitches about being the change for your kids

Source: ucreateparties.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: ourbeautifullittlejourney.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: fancifulfaith.tumblr.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: feedingmytemple.com via Allison on Pinterest

8 Months and still no TV

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

When we moved we left our TV behind.

Can you see why? It was ridiculous! It was suppose to be a temporary thing (it still is temporary), us getting rid of our TV. We planned first to get one after the summer ended. Then we planned to get one on black friday and then we planned to get one after the holidays. Yet still we have no TV.

There is a reason, I secretly LOVE not having a TV. I am hoping we can go a whole year with out it (not sure if the hubs will want that). We made the decision to not get one until after the hubs takes the BAR because it would be too much of a distraction (for both of us). But once it gets warmer and we start to enjoy the outdoors more, I don't know if I would really want one.

It is really peaceful with out a TV. Life is somehow simplified without the distracting TV.
I have found that it really has so many wonderful benefits!

1. I am not bombarded with TV commercials trying to convince me I need a whole host of things I never thought of before. This really has made a difference in my 'need for more stuff.' I find myself more satisfied with what we have and wanting less.

2. I have a lot more time to get stuff done. I read more, I cook more, and I sew more. I have really enjoyed jumping on the crafting train, and I am not sure I would have done that with a TV. Instead I would be sitting around watching HGTV and dreaming of buying a house.

3. I don't watch pointless shows. You know, when there is nothing else on and you end up watching some ridiculous reality TV show. Not that I am judging those of you who do love Reality TV, it is extremely entertaining, and when I do have a TV I am so tempted to watch.

4. We are very intentional about the shows we do choose to watch. Because I can't just turn on the TV whenever I want, I don't end up wasting time watching shows that I don't care about. D and I do follow a few shows, but we watch them on our own time off of the computer or his i-pad.

5. We actually eat at our kitchen table! Seriously, for the first 4 years of our marriage we rarely ate at our kitchen table. In our first apartment it was more of a space issue (the kitchen table was so small and in this awkward corner of our kitchen) but in our second apartment it was out of habit. We now actually eat at our table and although we do sometimes watch a show, we don't always.

I love that our living room is not for watching TV, it is for cuddling by the fire, playing games, talking, catching up with friends, eating dinner, curling up on the couch to read a book and snuggling up for a special movie night.

There is a downside though: I have absolutely no clue what is going on in the world! I am not a news junkie like my hubs so I don't actually read the news, the only news intake I normally have is from the TV in the evenings while I cooked dinner. So now I hope that D would inform me if anything really important was happening in the world. I know it is a stupid excuse and I should really take the time to read the news, but I just get so bored!

So what about you? Have you ever gone for a period of time without a TV?

Flashback Friday Picture

Hiking in New Hampshire

Fall 2006 Before we were even engaged.

Winter Love

2012-02-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Source: narniatheme.tumblr.com via Allison on Pinterest

Yesterday the high was 55 degrees. I know that seems like normal (or even cold) to many of you who live down south, but here that is exceedingly warm for a February.

So no snow in the forecast (or at least no snow that actually counts here in New England). I do wish we had some REAL snow (we did have one snowy day, but it was less than 2 inches and melted in about a day). I LOVE the snow (at least the first few times it snows each year), but this year no such luck yet. As I have said before, I am not quite complaining. I have enjoyed running outside, going for walks and not freezing my butt off every time I step outside.

I do hope we have some snow soon though. With our luck here, it will start getting really cold come March and then the spring won't come till June.

Here are a few snow pictures for your Thursday enjoyment.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway!

Source: katiespencilbox.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: acottageinthewoods.tumblr.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: weheartit.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Allison on Pinterest

Giveaway: Pocket Clutch

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Lovely Readers!

I have been thinking about doing a giveaway for a long time and today is the BIG DAY!

I am giving away this lovely handmade pocket-clutch made using Keyka Lou's Pocket
Clutch Pattern and some Burt's Bees hand cream (because who doesn't love Burt's Bees Lotion?).

Over a $20 value!

Those of you sewers of all levels out there, I highly recommend this pattern. It is really fun to make and you use such a little amount of fabric you may be able to make it with what you have in your sewing box right now. It is a great practical way to use up old scraps of fabric.

a Rafflecopter giveawayGiveaway Ends Monday February 6th at 12.01 AM Eastern Standard Time

Winner will be announced Tuesday and contacted via email

New Years Swap Party!

2012-01-31T12:00:00.000-05:00

So I participated in the new years swap party hosted by Casey, Daniel and Alycia. I was so excited to participate because I just knew that my January was going to be dismal with D studying for the BAR all month (and beyond). I also thought it would be fun to meet a new blogger out there who I might otherwise never be connected with, and boy am I glad I signed up!

So a little over a week ago I got an email with my swap partner who was the Lovely Kassi from Truly Lovely. Kassi may be a farm girl living on the other side of the country, but we share our love for blogging, our sisters, crafting and life!

It has been just fabulous getting to know her! I hope you take the chance to get to know her as well. I feel so blessed to have a new friend all the way out in Arizona!

So what did she send me you ask? She sent me one of my favorite things. A Starbucks gift card. I am in Love with Starbucks lattes and I can't wait to walk over to the Starbucks down the street and get one. She also sent a lovely note and some Scentsy air fresheners (how did she know I really needed one for my car?).

What a fabulous way to end a long Monday at work!

Thoughts from a newbie crafter

2012-01-31T09:30:00.000-05:00

So I did not grow up in a super crafty household. My mom is a teacher and although she has plenty of craft potential, she didn't have tons of time to teach us girls how to craft (don't worry mom, I am not upset about this).

As I entered high school my friend Allie and I use to be so proud of ourselves any time we did anything relatively resembling a craft and we would say "Look I'm crafty." We use to joke about how bad our art projects ended up in 'Art appreciation.' I did this one particularly bad Papier-mâché vase that I spray painted with a tie-dye pattern and then drew Aztec symbols all over ( the Aztec symbols were a requirement of the project, the tie-dye I added myself) that my mom kept in the house until just this summer when they moved! I did two decent projects that actually ended up in the art show one year, but one barely counts (it was a project board for a science fair project I entered and was entered in the 'academic art' category). The other was a photograph of a boat on a river that I literally just took in passing for a black and white photo project I had. It was one of the only good photos I took (and really, it was good but I can barely claim it as an actual accomplishment because I put absolutely no thought into it).

So it wasn't until I started reading other blogs and using Pinterest that I realized that all of those crafty people out there are just like me and that I could probably do some of those projects too. So this summer I asked for a sewing machine for my birthday and now I know how to sew. I have also started tackling other projects mostly inspired by other fabulous bloggers out there who I follow.

Side note, my friend Allie jumped on the crafty train much earlier than I did with out the encouragement of social networking, but she has always been a bit more creative than I.

Just think, if I didn't have this awesome social network, I would still be sitting at home reading science magazines and considering myself a non-crafter with no creative potential. Don't worry, I do still sit at home and read science magazines (and highlight things I find interesting), but I also craft. I am even considering starting my own shop in the future, but I need to get a little more experience first.

Speaking of crafting.

Come back tomorrow for my first giveaway!

I am going to be giving away a lovely pocket clutch that I made.

Thankful for...

2012-01-30T09:30:00.000-05:00

I am thankful for...

Dinner out and game night with my sister and her boyfriend Andrew (score shown below, who do you think won?)

Driving around Sunday afternoon on a perfectly sunny day with my husband

Getting 2 runs outside last week because the weather was warm

Hot chocolate and cookies

Movie and dinner at home on the couch with my husband

Watching my husband playing with his helicopter and acting like a little kid

Weekly Favorites

2012-01-27T06:22:00.000-05:00

DIY shoe clips. A-DOR-A-BLE from Oh, sweet Joy!
Photoshop tutorial over at Miss-Mommy
Giveaway day over at The Nester this week! Check it out.
Doesn't this Poached Salmon with Pesto and Feta look Yum? I think I will make it tomorrow night!
Beautiful Winter Photos from A Beautiful Journey
Pinwheel coaster tutorial from Thirty Handmade Days
Great Photo tip links from The Hollie Rogue
Massive Giveaway from after nine to five (ends Sunday!)

Source: elleapparel.blogspot.com via Allison on Pinterest

Tutorials for easy outfits (that are pretty darn cute)

Source: howjoyful.com via Allison on Pinterest

Scrap mouse pad (totally need this for my mouse at school)

Source: usefulguilt.tumblr.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: weheartit.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: frostyweddings.blogspot.com via Allison on Pinterest

I love cupcakes

Source: homedit.com via Allison on Pinterest

21 pallet furniture ideas

Source: thebusybudgetingmama.com via Allison on Pinterest

yarn wrapped letters

Source: wanelo.com via Allison on Pinterest

~want~

Happy Friday Folks!

Posts you may have missed this week

Weekend Update

Wanderlust

Conquering my winter running blues

DIY Nook Case

7 Things update

18 things you should know about Genetics {A Movie}

7 things

2012-01-26T12:00:00.000-05:00

Newly Discovered: This fabulous website with amazing recipes and pictures that are good enough to eat,.

Source: eat-yourself-skinny.com via Allison on Pinterest

Current project: Cooking a new somewhat healthy recipe each week. Last week I made cream of tomato soup (so yummy, from this recipe) not sure what I will tackle this week. I also bought Kale for the first time (per my hubs orders). Any suggestions about how to best cook it?

Read more »

18 Things you should know about Genetics {a movie}

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

So maybe you didn't have the patience to read through my post last week on Genetics the Basics OR maybe you did but you are still a bit lost (like my students). I found this fabulous video on Vimeo the other day and thought I would share. It is very basic, but has great visuals! Enjoy and I hope you learn something new.

Isn't science interesting?!

DIY: Nook Case

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

I had sometime this weekend to work on a project I have been so excited about! I finally made a case for my nook. The best part was I used so little fabric and it took only about an hour. I am so pleased with how it turned out, I can't wait to make another one. I think I may modify the pattern a bit more, mostly to give it a little more cushioning but over all it is perfect for my uses. I needed something to protect my nook that didn't add a lot of weight since I love to lug it around in my purse.

I followed this pattern with some minor changes. (see changes below)

Conquering my Winter Running Blues

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Source: google.com via Jamie on Pinterest

I don't know about you but I get the winter running blues every year. Those of you who live in the south don't understand this (or maybe you get the summer running blues because it is too hot?), but winter is the toughest time for me as a runner. This winter has been surprisingly warm, so I have gotten more runs in outside than normal (see my cold weather gear post here), but it is often too dark or too damp to venture outside.

So I have to be creative, because honestly I get bored after about 2.5 miles of running on a treadmill and the track at the gym where I am a member is only .1 mile (which means 10 laps=1 mile). So here is how I am going to get through the rest of the winter...

Wanderlust {travel fragments: a video}

2012-01-23T20:14:00.000-05:00

Last week a new blogger friend of mine posted this video about Iceland on her blog and it gave me serious wanderlust. Needless to say, I wanted more world traveling beauty and stumbled across this lovely video which just made the wanderlust worse.

Grab a cup of tea (tea is the beverage of choice in the UK after all) and enjoy

{maybe some day}

Weekend update

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Lets just say it was an eventful weekend. What we planned was not exactly what we got.

We planned to have a fun game night with my lil' sis and her beau, what we got was a trip to the ER. I took Daniel there Friday night because of some pain he was experience (for a few days). We both were dreading going, but when he called our doctor, they said he had to go into the ER if he wanted any pain meds. So to the ER we went. And we spent our Friday night sitting in the hallway of the ER on a bed (and a chair). Don't worry he is okay, but he wouldn't have made it through studying all weekend without the pain meds.

Saturday Snow

2012-01-21T10:13:00.000-05:00

It snowed today! Even though we live in New England, we haven't gotten much snow yet and the snow we have gotten has been over night and melted by the morning, so this is our first real snow. It is just a small snow storm by New England standards, but I will take it!

If you are looking for a movie to see on this snowy (or maybe sunny where you are) Saturday check this one out. Saw it a few weeks ago, such a wonderful inspirational movie! Also based on a true story.

Saturday Snow Listening

Weekly Favorites

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Love this guest post over at Royal Daughter Designs from the lovely Heather about Unmet Expectations
Who doesn't like getting snail mail, right? I signed up for this Valentines gift swap over at Rags to Stitches
This movie looks great. Thanks Today's Letters for posting!
Check out this valentine's game you can make for your hubs (or wifey)! from The Real Housewives of Bucks County (some lovely ladies that grew up in the same school I did)
Fun things to do with your husband From Katie at Life Experiences
29 ways to stay inspired and creative from Oh! Sweet Joy

Also take some time to visit my new sponsors over on my side panel! I will be doing a feature post on the lovely ladies soon (if you are a sponsor stay tuned). I am still accepting Sponsor Swaps . Contact me if you are interested!

Source: makeit-loveit.com via Allison on Pinterest

I love these cozies. Really need one for my travel mug. Since I can't knit I will sew one!

Source: charmstitch.com via Allison on Pinterest

Totally going to make these. Actually got my fabric ready.
May modify the pattern a bit. Post coming soon.

Source: brittanyanddylan.blogspot.com via Allison on Pinterest

I love the idea of these, but I know for sure I could never keep them alive. I kill plants like it is my job.

Source: sherylsalisburyphotography.com via Allison on Pinterest

When we have a house...

Source: ohcrafts.net via Allison on Pinterest

Valentine's Craft! Loving this

Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com via Allison on Pinterest

Making Mittens with sweater knit. So doing this (maybe even this weekend) with some old sweaters!

Genetics The Basics

2012-01-19T17:00:00.000-05:00

Source

Okay, Okay, humor me hear. Let me indulge my nerdy side. I am a science teacher after all, Biology to be exact. And if there is only one things my kids know (which may be the case for some of them) it is that Biology is the study of life. So here I am, going to give you a little Biology lesson. After all, we shouldn't stop learning when we graduate right?

We will start with the basics, and I will try to keep this short. My favorite subject in Biology is Genetics. or GEN-e-tics as my college genetics professor use to say. I find it so fascinating, amazing and truly beautiful. One of my goals this year is to learn more about Genetics and to get more versed on the current research in the field.

On my heart

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes God whispers and sometimes God shouts. I have been working on hearing his whispers lately. For example, today I was reading up on some blog posts and working on an email when my computer cut out, twice. After the second time, I heard "what about me." And I thought "OKAY God, I get it." I hadn't sat down and spent any time with him yet.
Read more »

Talk about a tear jerker

2012-01-18T18:46:00.001-05:00

So want to see this one! This is on the list for girls night!

Seems like it will make you think about the phrase "for better or for worse."

Mexican Shrimp and Couscous

2012-01-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

I saw this recipe the other day on Eat Yourself Skinny and I knew I had to try it. I decided to pair it with shrimp (mainly because we have an abundance of shrimp because I kept forgetting we had some and buying more). I changed the couscous recipe a bit partly because I didn't have all of the ingredients and partly because I don't like canned tomatoes. Here is my version:

Read more »

Thoughts on Friendship

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

I am not that good at making friend.

I have a few very close friends that are mostly in my life because at some point circumstances put them there. I got lucky, I didn't seek them out or do anything special. Really, God brought them to me. A few from high school, a few from college, s and a few from my 6 years of teaching.

And though I think I am a decent friend to those who are in my life, I get so anxious about making new friends. I get so paralyzed by the thought that a person might feel obligated to spend time with me if I ask that I tend not to ask. Then I worry that if they do say yes, they might find that I am boring, annoying or just not that fun to be around.

Sponsor

2012-01-16T15:20:00.002-05:00

Hey lovely readers, I am looking for anyone who is interested in doing a sponsor swap.

Or if you are just starting out (like me) and aren't ready for sponsors at your place, I am up for free sponsorship as well.

Email me

allison{dot}lundstrom{at}gmail{dot}com

if you are interested!

There is only a limited number available and I reserve the right to say no or cancel the sponsor swap at any time if I find that the content of your blog does not mesh well with mine.

I look forward to working with you!

Over the weekend

2012-01-16T08:59:00.001-05:00

This weekend was a big weekend because D and I started house hunting. We are so excited to start this process, though a bit overwhelmed and somewhat nervous. Luckily we feel really good about our agent because he is a good friend's brother-in-law and we feel like we have plenty of time to just look around and get to know what we like.

Weekly Favorites

2012-01-13T15:30:00.000-05:00

I really related to this post from Arielle over at a beautiful journey about discontentment
Beware of these marriage killers posted by Simple Mom
Great online resources for Intentional living posted by the Nester

Source: eat-yourself-skinny.com via Allison on Pinterest

I am definitely going to make this on a cold winter Saturday soon!

Why I run.

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Source: curvecreation.tumblr.com via Allison on Pinterest

You want to know why I run? Because it is my de-stresser. This image says it all.

Often I run with my music up high and my earbuds in, or with an audio book. But sometimes, when I am really in need of working my thoughts out and de-stressing, I run with out my watch and with out my mp3. Try it sometimes, especially if you have a particularly scenic rout you can do. It feels that much more refreshing when you finish.

What about you? Did you run with our with out mp3?

This week was a bad exercise week for me. I have been so busy every day after school It has been hard to get to the gym. I did go Thursday and I am running with a friend today after school. I plan on also running Saturday morning (outside if it isn't bone chilling out there), so even though my 3 runs are 3 days in a row, I think they still count! Wouldn't want to miss my goal the 2nd week of the new year!

Weird Weather

2012-01-12T18:47:00.002-05:00

Source: amazingonly.com via BubblieTea on Pinterest

So this weather has been so weird. It is raining today, in January in Massachusetts. Maybe you aren't from New England so maybe you don't see how weird that is, but it is weird. You know what is weirder, we haven't had any snow since October (unless you count the dusting Monday that melted in about 1 hour) and the weather for the next ten days is suppose to be above 30 (except 1 day).

Just to put it in perspective, the first year I lived here (my freshmen year of college) it was so cold ice chunks were floating in the ocean and they warned us to stop in any building we could on our walks to class so we didn't get frostbite.

But not this year.

So still no snow in site. But to be honest, I am sort of happy. I have been running outside, D has still been able to walk to work and the snow days aren't piling up (like they did last year). I can barely afford to miss a day right now, I have so much content to cover before Mid-terms in just a little over a week! YIKES.

Winter Mantel

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

So after taking down the Christmas decorations I was inspired to change up the mantel decorations a bit. Before Christmas it had a beach-y feel and in the middle of winter in New England, no matter how close you are to the beach, it just doesn't feel right to have beach pictures on your mantel. It still has the beach inspired colors, just with out the beach pictures and with a little more winter texture.
Read more »

7 Things

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

Newly Discovered: Loving this newly discovered Band Sleeping At Last thanks to my dear friend Davia who wrote about them recently in her blog. I especially like this song (which she also posted on her blog):

Current Project: Surviving the end of the semester at my job (teaching) and the beginning of the semester at grad school(masters in special education) is my project. Soon though I want to be working on something like this. This coming weekend I plan on getting started on it. Stay tuned!

Sometimes and Always

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

*I've been reading Grace for the Good Girl and I got this idea from the book when it talks about your 'Sometimes Truths"*

Sometimes I would rather read blog, email or check facebook than read my bible

Sometimes I am mad at God for not giving me the same thing *that* girl was given

Sometimes the farthest I get in my prayer before I fall asleep is "Dear God"

Sometimes I am a bad friend because I don't take the time to call

Sometimes I put off grading for days with no good excuse, then I lie to my students and tell them I have been too busy

Sometimes I don't want to forgive

Sometimes I don't want to admit I am wrong even when I know that I am

Sometimes I argue just for the sake of arguing

Sometimes I enjoy gossiping

Sometimes the words coming out of my mouth or hurtful and not uplifting

Always we can start new because Always God is Love

Over the Weekend

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

This weekend we said goodbye to some dear friends, went on a walk with my parents, un-decorated our Christmas tree, enjoyed the warm weather, went to dinner at our favorite restaurant and watched a movie with my sister and brother-in-law.

Weekly Favorites

2012-01-06T15:00:00.000-05:00

Top 100 Tutorials of 2011 from The Long Thread
Big Mama's humorous view of her own healthy living goal for 2012
Authenticity and Blogging from The Nester
Beautiful post on Casey Wiegand's Blog
Goals make us available not perfect from Simple Mom over at (in)courage

Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com via Allison on Pinterest

10 ways to make a garland from A Beautiful Mess
Read more »

First week of 2012 in photos

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

We brought in the new year at the Melting Pot with my parents. Okay, wait to be honest D and I brought in the new year while sleeping, we just celebrated the new year a little early and went to bed at a decent time (I did have to get up for my first race of 2012 after all). Here are some photos from our first week of 2012 (and the last day of 2011)

Dream Adventures Part 2

2012-01-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Allison on Pinterest

If you missed the first installment of dream adventures check it out here
(I promise, if you stick with reading the whole post, you won't be sorry you did)

After reflecting on the last post, and reading it while laughing with tears in my eyes, I realized that I was mistaken. The dream/awake state of confusion started much before college, it started back in 9th grade.

Setting Running Goals

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Once you are officially a runner (whether you have been 'running' for years like me or you just joined the crowds) it is a great idea to set goals. I will be honest, I haven't really been one for setting running goals in the past, but I think that is part of my problem with inconsistency in running. So this year I am setting running goals. Before I share my goals, here are some tips for helping you get started on your running goals.

Movie!

2012-01-03T15:00:00.000-05:00

Okay, I am really looking forward to this movie. I honestly cried watching the trailer. Yikes!

edit: Check out this awesome giveaway! Custom Blog Design Giveaway from The Color Issue

Abundant

2012-01-03T08:00:00.001-05:00

I decided to pick a word for 2012. I did this a couple of years ago and didn't really find much success in my word. I think I honestly just forgot about my word and wasn't sure how to 'live it out.' So I took a year off and am going to try again. This year (as with last time) I put a lot of thought into my word. I used this guide to help me choose a word and finally settled on Abundant.

My goal is to post once a month about what this word means to me throughout the year.

Although 2011 on the surface was a very good year for us, I ended the year feeling very spiritually dry. God has blessed me in so many ways yet I still feel discontent, unsatisfied and unfulfilled. I have an great job, I live near my wonderful family, I have the most dear friends and we are not struggling to make ends meet every month. Yet something is missing.
Read more »

Oh How I love Chicago

2012-01-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

As promised, here is my update on our time in Chicago. D's parents live in Rockford. For those of you who don't know the area, that is a little under 2 hours from Chicago. Just close enough to make a Fun day trip into Chicago to visit, just far enough to make it special.

Weekly Links

2011-12-31T08:36:00.000-05:00

This week I have a great list of links for you. I encourage you to check them out. They really are written by some of the most fabulous bloggers out there.

20 Questions for Reflecting on your 2011 by Simple Mom
Choose a word for the year. Here are some examples: Change, Intentional (I am still thinking about what mine will be, I will get back to you sometime next week).
Today's Letters Year-End-Review
Books read in 2011-Link up provided by The Nester.
The Post you wish more people had read (some great encouraging posts here) from Gypsy Mama
How to best use Pinterest as a blogger from The Nester.

Year in Review (2011)

2011-12-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

2011 has been a big year for us Lundstroms!
(the items in the following lists are not in any particular order)

This year marked the year we celebrated D's graduation from Law School, our 4th wedding anniversary, and the birth of our 3rd nephew! We moved across half of the country (from the Mid-west back to the East Coast), we both got Jobs and we settled into our 3rd apartment. We have said goodbye to many good friends and hello to some new and some old friends. Allison started grad school and D started studying for the BAR. This was the year we spent the most time with either of our families; we lived 3 hours form Em and Ben for 6 months, 4 hours from D's parents for half of the year, 1 mile from my parents and sister (in opposite directions) and 5 miles from my older sis and her fam for half the year (and still going). 2011 was a good year, but it wasn't without its struggles too. God has been so good to us and provided for us in so many ways. I am excited to see what God has in store for 2012!

Our favorite posts and memories

My favorite blogs and websites
~Although I have had a personal blog for over 3 years, this was the year I discovered that people out there wrote blogs for people they didn't know to read! This is also the year I became one of them. These blogs are at the very top of the list for me, there are many others that I follow as well~

Best Books I read (I am sure I forgot some, and these are not in the order read)

To see all of the books I read go here

Favorite movies

Things I learned this year

How to Sew
Better Photography skills
How to use a DSLR
That I can be crafty just like you!
How to use photoshop

Favorite Albums

Christmas in Rockford

2011-12-30T08:16:00.000-05:00

Well we are back from Rockford, IL where we spent Christmas with Daniel's parents. As I mentioned before, it was our year to go there, but we are the only ones of his siblings and their families that could make it. I fear that as more and more kids come into the picture and the little ones grow up, this may be a new pattern. At least we got to see them all for a few days of adventure at the Cabin in the Woods back in May.

We had a lovely, quite, relaxing Christmas, filled with lots of yummy food, fun games, good conversation and gifts. It was the perfect break from the crazy Christmas hustle and bustle that we have come to accept and love in our families.

Books of 2011

2011-12-29T09:13:00.001-05:00

2011 might be my best book year yet! I read a whole lot this year, I am quite satisfied with my virtual book shelf (I have a nook, got it last Christmas before eReaders became all the rage). To be honest, I picked a good number of these books because they are available for loan on my Nook from my local library. Some of these books were excellent, some were not excellent. If you want to know about a particular one, leave a comment or email me and I will give you my opinion (whatever it's worth).

How to have a successful book club

2011-12-28T12:30:00.000-05:00

Source: britt-allen.tumblr.com via britt on Pinterest

I have been in a few book clubs, and I am just staring up a new one, which I am super excited about! It is sort of hard to have a successful book club and although I have enjoyed (most of) my book clubs, they have not always been the most successful. Here is my advice

Want to start running?

2011-12-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Source

So new years is just around the corner, and a lot of us will be making some new years resolutions. Now that Christmas is over you can start working on your resolutions. Maybe yours is to start running more! Well I encourage you to do so and make a plan.

Here are a few tips that have helped me along the way.
Read more »

Feliz Navidad

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Opening our Stockings

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

We decided to do stocking stuffers. We did this in an effort to keep a low budget, but ended up spending a bit more then we originally planned (it is just so fun to buy gifts for one another!). Because we are traveling this Christmas (wait we have traveled every Christmas, but not next year!), we decided to do our gifts early. This essentially saves some room in our suit cases.

A Christmas Quiz

2011-12-22T08:00:00.001-05:00

Got this idea here and here

1. Eggnog or hot chocolate? Hot chocolate all the way. Eggnog is gross!
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Wraps them in pretty paper.
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? White at our house, colored at my parents house
4. Do you hang mistletoe? Nope, but I totally would if I had some.
5. When do you put your decorations up? 1st or 2nd weekend in December (or as soon after Thanksgiving as I get to it)
Read more »

If you came over for coffee...

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

So I have seen this idea for a post on a few blogs I love here and here and since I think it is a fabulous idea here goes.

If you came over today for coffee I would start a fire in our fireplace and show you my Christmas decorations, then we would sit down and I would tell you that...

My husband was upstairs studying and that I already hate the BAR for consuming my husband for the next 2 months.

And with all my free time, I have been sewing a lot and I am really excite about tackling some new projects in the near year.
Read more »

Our Church

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

D and I have done the church hunting thing a few times. Once when we were engaged, once when we moved to Indianapolis and then when we moved back to New England. Two of the churches we have attended regularly together are mega churches. 1,000+ people attend on a given weekend. Our current church has an average of 40 people in attendance on a Sunday.

The truth is, we didn't choose this church in rebellion or even in response to the previous mega churches. There was so much I liked about both of the mega churches we attended. We choose this church because it felt like home the first week we visited. D and I have had many conversations about why we like the church so much, and here is what we have decided.

Our Weekend

2011-12-19T19:45:00.001-05:00

We had another busy weekend filled with Holiday activities and Christmas cheer.

This weekend we spent a little time with my family making cookies and watching Christmas in Connecticut (one of my all time favorite Christmas movies you MUST see it!). Other then that we were busy running errands and getting stuff ready for Christmas. D and I finished up our shopping (thank goodness) and have started wrapping. We finally got our Christmas cards addressed and ready to send and we boxed up the presents to be shipped to our families who we won't see at Christmas. I also spent a good amount of time this weekend (and tonight) sewing! I am finally done (at least with what I wanted to get done by Christmas).

Fav Links and Pins of the week

2011-12-16T15:00:00.000-05:00

Save your tree stumps every Christmas and display them year after year.
This makes me want to grab my dearest friends and a cup of coffee.
Pumpkin waffles? Yes Please. All I need is a waffle iron now!
One bloggers thoughts on Beauty
The one when Christmas magic goes awry such as sweet story from Enjoying the Small Things

Favorite Pins:

Source: allfortheboys.com via Today's on Pinterest

Crafts for boys!
Read more »

Twitter?

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

source

So I am going to be honest, I don't exactly understand what Twitter is. My husband has sort of tried to explain it to me but I just don't get it. I usually don't resist social media (obviously since I have a blog, am on Facebook {although I did resist Facebook for a little bit when it first launched at my College} and pinterest) but I have seriously been resisting Twitter. I just don't want to be one of those people who is sitting around the lunch table looking at tweets from Britney Spears (okay so really, there is no risk of me ever doing this even if I join twitter, but you get the point right? or maybe not) or someone who is updating people on my whereabouts every minute.

It just all seems so narcissistic.

So would someone please fill me in? Is it worth it? Why do you tweet?

Our Story

2011-12-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here is the story of how boy met girl, fell in love and got married.

Friend introduces boy and girl at boy's birthday party senior year of college. Girl and boy talk all night about traveling, art and books. Girl goes home and immediately tells her friend about boy. Boy doesn't tell anyone, but he wants to know girl better.

Family tree decorating take 2

2011-12-14T20:18:00.000-05:00

So we decorated the tree a second time. The first time we left my sis out, and so we gathered together again to decorate. She still had all of her ornaments to put on, and this time Lilli had some practice (putting ornaments on their tree at home) so she was able to help. Levi loves to look at the pretty lights and scoot over towards the tree to grab and ornament to put in his mouth every chance he gets. We rescued him from many objects this weekend (ornaments, lights, tree branches etc).

It was the first time in many years that we were all together and actually able to decorate for Christmas. We rotate whose year it is to put up the angle (we use to fight over the honor as kids). This year it was my (and D's) year! The tree was so tall that I couldn't reach the top, so D had to pick me up, We nearly knocked over the tree, but we did get it up there!

Running Gear: Cold Weather

2011-12-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Source

I live in New England, and although I am a member of a gym, I still run outside in the winter. I can't run more than 3 miles on a treadmill without wanting to stop out of shear boredom, so I do anything over 3 miles outside in the winter. Luckily there are some really great routes around here, and I get off work at 3 so for most of the winter I can get home in time to run while the sun is out (as long as I actually get out the door by 3, which isn't very often).

The weekend in Snapshots

2011-12-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

We had a busy weekend. Lost of friend time, study time and family time. Plus some hot chocolate, enjoying our decorations and a short nap. I would call it a good weekend, except for the fact that I am a master procrastinator and spent my whole day Sunday working on a project that I should have been doing all semester! Sometimes I am worse then my kiddos.

Tomorrow I will post some pics and a video from our family time this weekend.

Thoughts on advent

2011-12-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

This year I have to admit I have been so busy that I didn't sit down at the beginning of the advent season and reflect like I have the past few years. Last year, I sat down and made a plan for getting up 15 minutes earlier so I could slow down and reflect each morning before work. To be honest, this year I am lucky to slow down and reflect twice in a week. I was beginning to feel a bit overwhelmed, and honestly a bit guilty. This season of Christmas is suppose to be about celebrating my Savoir, not decorating, shopping and checking things off on my to-do list, yet I have been barely giving any time to God each week.

Favorites of the week

2011-12-09T15:44:00.001-05:00

This week I enjoyed

These helpful hints and beautiful pictures about photographing your Christmas tree from my friend Jen
This good list of Christmas songs from Words of Williams
Browsing this weeks Inspirations Workshop on Christmas Decor at Gussy Sews
All of these fab mantels (haven't checked nearly all of them out but enjoyed browsing) specifically this and this and this one
This blog I discovered (you have to check out their adoption story, so inspirational it brought tears to my eyes)
I also loved reading this couples story of hope and love (must check them out also)
This post brought a smile to my face (as Bridget usually does)
Def want to try these out. Yummers!

I hope you enjoy them too. Have a fabulous weekend.

This weekend I am going to hunker down and tackle the project for my Grad class (it is due Tues so don't be too impressed, I can't exactly procrastinate any more), some sewing projects and grading (I have stacks and stacks in my school bag).

I would love for you to share some of your favorite links from the week! What did you enjoy reading, learning and looking at on the world-wide-web?

Christmas Tour

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

Come on over for a tour of our living room! I have twinkled up our living room and it feels so cozy at night with the Christmas lights lighting up the room and a warm fire in the fireplace! Daniel was a bit skeptical at first of the lights around the room, but once I got them up he decided he liked them!

Dream Adventures Part 1

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Allison on Pinterest

Most of you probably don't know that I am a sleep talker, screamer and fighter. As the hubs says "I am a different person in my sleep." I thought I would share some of my best and most shocking sleep adventures with you. I will add more as more occur.

I think the best place to start is at the beginning, when I went of to college. The sleep talking, screaming and fighting may have begun before that, but college was my first experience (besides a short while in 6th grade when I shared a room with my little sister) sharing a room with someone. My roommate Kim had the pleasure to experiencing my sleep talking first hand on several occasions.

The first time I realized (or more accurately Kim realized) I had a problem was about 2 months into college my freshmen year. My roommate and I were both sound asleep. I awoke suddenly and found myself about 2 inches from my roommates face, kneeling on the floor whispering "There are ants in my bed." This startled Kim awake and she sat up promptly. I finally got off the ground and started to shake out my sheets vigorously in the middle of the room.

Running Gear: Shoes

2011-12-07T15:00:00.000-05:00

Source: google.com via Allison on Pinterest

I am a runner, not an avid crazy runner, but a consistent runner. I have been running since 6th grade when I joined the cross country and track team. Over the years I have used a lot of shoes and other gear and I thought I would post about my recent gear choices. Running stuff can be so expensive and it is hard to decide when to spend the money on the 'better' gear and when to cut costs by getting cheaper gear.

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Warning:
When I am in the Christmas Spirit, I am REALLY in the Christmas Spirit.

We went to get our tree with my fam this weekend. Perfect Saturday morning, sun was out and the air was crisp. It was fun to see how our personalities show through the way we pick a tree. Lauren and Ray picked one with in 8 minutes of walking into the field. My parents chose a few and took a while to decide between them and Daniel and I walked around forever before we decided on a smallish one. Lilli ran around like crazy, Levi snuggled up with his mama and we all had a fabulous time. The farm served hot chocolate, cold cider and yummy cookies while you checked out and cozied up by the fire. We snapped a few family photos and ate lots of cookies. The only down side was little sister was busy writing a paper and couldn't join us. Why must she be so studious?!

Over the weekend

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

We had a packed weekend, lots of family time, lots of grading and studying and lots of together time. We got up early, went to bed late and packed our days in tight. It certainly is that time of year again when things get extra busy.

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey

2011-12-02T16:44:00.001-05:00

Last Christmas my mom gave Daniel and I the book The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey and I have been waiting until this Christmas to read it. Now I realize that it is a children's book, but it is still worth the read, even if you are an adult.

The book, by Susan Wojciechowski, is a lovely read. The story she crafts about Jonathan Toomey gets right at the spirit of Christmas in a cleaver and touching way. In this short children's book, the characters are well developed and endearing. In addition, the book has beautiful sweeping pictures illustrated by P.J. Lynch. I really think that anyone with kids between the ages of 7 and 10 should read this book this Christmas to their families.

This review is part of the Home for the Holiday's Book Challenge Check out Amy's blog to hear more about the challenge. I may have taken the easy way out, but it was a busy week and there wasn't a ton of time to read. I am working on the Christmas Carol as well and will review that as my second book in the challenge soon!

Christmas Stocking Tutorial

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

I did it, remember this post? I successfully made stockings for Daniel and I. I am actually more than thrilled with how they turned out!! I hate to toot my own horn here, but I am pretty impressed with my skills. For those of you who haven't known me for long, I literally (anyone watch Parks and Rec?) started sewing in September when I got a sewing machine for my birthday. I am slowly learning how to follow patterns and even stray from the patterns a bit.

This stocking idea came from this website but since there was no pattern I used this website for guidance. But for those of you out there who are visual learners, I decided to explain the process with pictures. I am sure you more experienced sewers out there could come up with an easier way to do this, but I am just a little beginner. Seriously, if I can do this, so can you. At the end I made a few suggestions for improvements from my version! You can use this stocking tutorial with any fabrics. I just LOVE the look of burlap. It has such beautiful texture and I am excited for how it will all look when I am done decorating.

The two stockings I made are not shown here, just one, partly because I need to make a few corrections on one and partly because they may be slightly different shapes. As my husband said "It looks like this one has cankles! is that mine?!" Mind you he said it in love, and I did not take offence at all. The stockings also ended up pretty big because my husband requested a large stocking (I think he wants lots of goodies in his stocking, we are only doing stockings stuffers as gifts this year). They definitely could be scaled down a bit!

You may not know that....

2011-12-01T09:25:00.000-05:00

I was born in the Netherlands and lived overseas for the first 3 years of my life (until my little sister came along). The picture above was taking when I was a Baby somewhere in The Netherlands (my parents could definitely tell you where).

The only thing I remember from that time is crawling on the floor one day and eating cat food in what I assume was our kitchen.

For most of my early childhood I wanted to be a ballet dancer

Little Women

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Because I have grad school class Tuesday night this is all I have for Wednesday.

Anyone else there think it's not Christmas until you watch Little Women?! I am dying to watch it. Anyone want to come over and watch it with me (you may have to bring a TV since I don't have one). I have the dvd though.

Quick List and some links

2011-11-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

I ordered my Christmas cards Monday. Can't wait till they come.
It is so nice to have a job where I don't mind going back to work after a long break.
Is December really going to start this Thursday?
I have a quiz in my grad class tomorrow, maybe I should be studying instead of blogging?
We have plans to get our Christmas tree this weekend, can't wait!
Loving these camera bags. Maybe someday I will get one.
Just discovered this blog and this blog this weekend. Aren't they cuties!
My computer is going so slow these days it makes me a little cranky. I am trying hard not to let it put me in a bad mood though!
I love these ideas for christmas card displays.
What a great idea to write a letter to your mom on your birthday.

Multitudes on Monday: Thanksgiving Edition

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

It was a unique thanksgiving for us. It was the first thanksgiving since the year we were married that we woke up in our own apartment and didn't have to travel at all (besides the half mile to my parents down the street). As most of you know, both us and my parents moved this summer (for different reasons) to this area. It has been so great to have them nearby!

DIY Christmas: Gift idea the Mama Clutch

2011-11-25T04:59:00.001-05:00

Hello Visitors! It's Allison here. Welcome to Whatever the circumstances. Today I am linking up with 4 fabulous bloggers out there Casey Leigh , Danielle, Kate, and Janel for follower fest!

In case you want to know a bit about me here goes:

I am a Christ follower, wife andhigh school biology teacher (among other things). I am a lifestyle blogger about faith, love,daily adventures and my interests. In mycorner of the web you will also find book reviews, sewing projects, running advice and inspiration, photographs and occasional recipes. My husband and I strive to find joywhatever the circumstances. Join us as we share life, love andlaughter along the way. Feel free to stay awhile!

If you leave a comment or become a follower I would love to check out your blog or shop as well! I love to meet new bloggers, crafters and adventurers out there!

I am thankful for

2011-11-23T12:47:00.001-05:00

To celebrate Thanksgiving, I thought i would share ten of the things I am most thankful for this year (2011). They are listed in no particular order. Just ordered as I think of and type them.

Spending several days at the cabin in the woods with Daniel's side of the family catching up, hanging out and enjoying nature.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

2011-11-23T07:09:00.000-05:00

Check this out. I loved this book. The trailer looks great, but it has been a while since I read the book so not sure how accurate. But the truth is, I don't always care if a movie is just like a book, what makes a good book doesn't always make a good movie.

God's Calling?

2011-11-22T16:00:00.000-05:00

I am a teacher and my husband is a lawyer. Neither of us went to seminary, we don't currently lead a bible study and we don't have any plans to plant a church or become missionaries (in the traditional sense). So is what we do part of God's calling? Are our jobs just as important to God's plan and purpose as our pastor's or the seminary students down the road who plan to start churches and move across the world to minister to others?

Our weekend in snapshots

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

We had one of those packed to the brim type of weekends. Here is a quick rundown of our weekend.
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Growing up

2011-11-18T16:07:00.001-05:00

5 Minute Friday: Grow

Go:
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What I have learned from my 2 year old niece

2011-11-16T19:47:00.001-05:00

I have 4 nieces and 3 nephews and 1 niece on the way, so I like to think of myself as an expert aunt. Unfortunately the little darlings pictured below on the bench live on the other side of the country (nephews in Arizona, nieces in Chicago soon to be California). Luckily, I live close enough to my sister to watch her kids grow up. That means I get to babysit!

Living amongst history (is amongst a word?)

2011-11-15T16:15:00.001-05:00

We live in Salem, MA, which in case you didn't know was one of the first cities established in the United States. In our town (just 100 ft away) there is the oldest planned street in America, one of the first U.S. and Customs houses, houses from the 1600 and 1700s. It is pretty amazing to live in a town that was around during the colonization of America, the American Revolution and the signing of the declaration of independence.

Little Princes: A book Review

2011-11-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Just finished this book last week. It was an excellent read and I love that it fits right in with my post about Justice the other day.

Hunger Games

2011-11-14T15:37:00.001-05:00

Can't wait. Can you?

On Justice

2011-11-14T15:00:00.000-05:00

Right now my church is in a series on justice. To give you a reference point, Dictionary.com defines justice as

1.the quality of being just; righteousness, equitableness, or moral rightness: to uphold the justice of a cause.

2.rightfulness or lawfulness, as of a claim or title; justness of ground or reason: to complain with justice.

3.the moral principle determining just conduct.

4.conformity to this principle, as manifested in conduct; just conduct, dealing, or treatment.

5.the administering of deserved punishment or reward.

Holiday Book Challenge

2011-11-12T17:41:00.001-05:00

I am joining Mariafrom A Blooming Spirit forthe holiday book challenge. As an avid reader, and the wife of someone who isgoing to be study for the BAR this December, I am all over this challenge!Click the link if you are interested in joining up too!

Here is my booklist

Wow.

2011-11-12T17:39:00.001-05:00

I don't normally re-post videos I see on other people's blogs, but this one I watched multiple times and figured, if I like it that much, I think you guys deserve to see it too.

Unexpected...

2011-11-11T08:04:00.001-05:00

5 Minute Friday Post: Unexpected

Go:

This isn't exactly where I expected to be in life. I remember thinking that by the time I was 28 I would have 2.5 kids a house and a husband. I have one of those things.I thought I thought I would live overseas for a while, explore the world, learn many new things. I have lived in Indiana, not exactly overseas or exotic. When I was in high school I thought I would become a doctor, an astronaut or a nurse, I am a teacher.

Yet even all of these things are unexpected, they are just what God knew I needed. I need to be 28, married with no kids right now, I need to not have a house to worry about since my Husband and I have moved around a bit. I needed to live in Indiana for 3 years to explore a the slower-paced Midwestern life, so that when we move back to New England D and I wouldn't get lost in the fast pace life. I need to be a teacher; I love teaching. I may have enjoyed the other professions, but my passion and gift is teaching, so maybe I would have felt like something was missing.

A brief List

2011-11-10T16:56:00.001-05:00

1. I love long weekends! D's parents are coming in for this one to spend some time with us (pray that they make it on the fight, since they fly standby).

Bloglovin'

2011-11-09T17:58:00.001-05:00

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

I have joined bloglovin' follow me please!! It is an easy way to follow your favorite blogs. So if you are a blog follower out there, join up with bloglovin'

From jack-o-lanterns to silver bells

2011-11-09T16:56:00.002-05:00

This year fall has quickly moved into winter, and Halloween has morphed into Christmas. I know the Christmas decorations come out in the stores right after Halloween every year, but for some reason it shocked me when I walked into Target today for a quick after school shopping trip.

A weekend full of small blessings

2011-11-07T15:00:00.000-05:00

Here is how we spent our weekend. It was a fabulous weekend, filled with such great small moments of blessings.

Friday we ordered Indian from Passage to India, watched this movie by the fire, and ate chocolate cake made in a mug.

Christmas projects

2011-11-05T13:21:00.003-04:00

Source: cottageinstincts.blogspot.com via Allison on Pinterest

I have some Christmas projects in mind. I am going to try to make some stocking like the ones in the picture above from Pinterest. I am sure mine will look so different then that, and I will look back and think "what happened" but it is worth a short right?

Five Minute Friday: Remember

2011-11-04T15:56:00.000-04:00

Remember is one of those words that allows you to pick up where you left off with a friend who you haven't seen in months or even years. It is also a word that gets you through awkward situations with long lost friends who you haven't been so good at keeping in touch with. Its what gets you through your 10, 15 and 20 year high school reunion. Its the word that keeps you and your friends laughing for 5 solid minutes, and has you clutching your stomachs and gasping for air.

Remember the time when we thought our teacher was schizophrenia...

Remember when we use to park in Woodland lot and have dance parties with our music blaring from our car stereos....

Remember the road trip we took together sophomore year...

Remember how we use to stop and visit horse and donkey every Sunday after church...

Remember when we would skip out on track practice by hiding in the bathroom or sneaking into the swim meets...

Remember our first snow days as student teachers...

Remember how much we use to drive our Bible teacher crazy, yet he secretly loved us above all else...

Remember the crazy pointless points system we came up with in class, when we got points for being us and others got points deducted for not being us...

Remember when our teacher dressed up in her new rain coat and pretended she was a weather-woman reporting in a big storm...

Remember when our teacher dressed like Britney Spears and danced to Hit me baby one more time (or was it something else, I can't exactly remember)...

Rearranging life (or just our living space)

2011-11-03T16:49:00.000-04:00

Daniel and I have been talking about rearranging our living space for a while. The previous set up was not conducive to watching TV from the couch. The truth is, we don't have a TV so that isn't such a bad thing; however, we are hoping to get one within the next 2 months and wanted to get the living room set up for the TV. This weekend we put on our muscle shirts and moved the furniture around. The main goal was to move the TV stand to a better place, this wasn't quite possible, since it is a bulky corner TV stand, but we are hoping to get a smaller TV stand to go with our new (when we get it) slimmer TV (we use to have one of those big clunkers).

What do you think? We are in desperate need of art over the small couch, but that will have to wait.

Multitudes on Monday (Wednesday edition)

2011-11-02T20:13:00.000-04:00

So I am a true believer in the saying "Better late then never." So here goes, my better late then never multitudes on Monday post.

This past week was nothing extra special, except that I got to celebrate a dear friends birthday. I think it is extra important on those nothing special weeks to stop and thank God for the blessings.
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