My Beautiful Month

In case you aren't on Instagram, or don't follow me, here's a peek at my Insta-Life lately.
[*All photos are taken from my Instagram account.]

Having a little fun with a co-worker's office :)

Daddy and I on our coffee date, about to get our GARTH BROOKS on.

Homemade apple butter season.

Not quite the morning person dog.

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

What I'm Reading {Five Favorites}

Since I took a winded break during the summer, I'd like to share with you all my top favorites from the books I devoured the past few months. And when I say devoured...clearly the understatement of the year. And when I say my top favorites...clearly a very hard decision, which left me second-guessing myself for a week as I prepared this post.

For my adult book, HANDS DOWN, I'm choosing Go Set a Watchman. Harper Lee's second novel.... I don't even know where to begin with my feelings for this one. Two and a half stars is what I wanted, desperately, to give this at first. OH MY GOODNESS. The last 20 pages were the book's saving grace. I was about to throw it in the front yard.

So much to say, this could be a post in itself, I don't know where to start. Viewing this book apart from To Kill a Mockingbird, I completely understand why the publisher asked Lee to write a beginning/background, per se, to Go Set a Watchman, which, in case you didn't know, was actually written prior to Mockingbird. WOW. I went through quite a roller coaster of emotions while reading this (I can see why Lee never wanted it to see the light of day). There was one point I was so upset I had decided to read it, afraid it would forever ruin my beloved Mockingbird. BUT, as I said, those last 20 pages.... I can understand it. I can understand what happened and why. Not saying anything more, as to not give anything away, I UNDERSTAND. My advice to those considering reading Watchman, keep going. Don't put it down. Finish it, and then sit back and think on it for a while. Think on the time period it's about, the time it should have been published.... Reading or re-reading Lee's first work is a must, I suggest, before reading this one. I might even go back and re-read To Kill a Mockingbird again for the second time this year. But then maybe...no, I'll just think on this one a little more. And that's the best thing about this novel. You want to see someone get fired up? You want to see an intense debate? You want to see a room divided? Bring up this book! I love hearing and having discussions centered around Harper Lee and her second work.

One more thought: I think Go Set a Watchman might have had it's own success if it had been released on the heels of the acclaimed To Kill a Mockingbird. It could've started another civil war. It could've been the South's saving grace. Who knows.... WOW.

Candace Cameron Bure's (aka D.J. Tanner) book, Balancing It All, is my recommended title for my beloved Christian genre. As the title implies, it digs into God's Word in relation to our chaotic lives, how to balance it all in a godly way. I like how Bure mentions, and often, how when things get a little too hectic, unbalanced and overwhelming, we need to take a moment and reconnect with God. To make sure we are following His plans for our lives and not our own. She delivers this message in an encouraging and non-condescending way, which makes it a great book to pick up.

For my audio book, I have to say my favorite listening experience belongs to The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. It was definitely a five-stars audio. I didn't expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. I'd been putting it off, but I don't know why. I have the movie at home and haven't watched it because I wanted to get through the book first. And, yes, there were tears...many, many tears. Yet, here's the best part: the whole time I was reading with my ears, I kept thinking my friend Jessica would enjoy it, and I should recommend it to her. Well, I had just finished it and was ready to give her my full suggestion and opinion the next time we phoned each other. Lo and behold, she had a book to recommend to me; it was The Time Traveler's Wife. We are two peas in a pod, I tell ya! And this isn't the first time something like this happened. Way back in college, during summer break, I called to tell her I just bought a new car. Before I could get it out she blurted out she had just purchased a new car. Like I said, two peas in a pod. It's why we're best friends, ya know? So anywhooo...the phone conversation turned into a small book discussion. And I just LOVE when that happens.

Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson is my pick for my recent young adult favorite. Actually, I just finished this one not too long ago and I spent most of the book reading through tear-filled eyes. Even though some of the story lines were a bit predictable, I couldn't wait to get to them to feel what the characters were feeling. The plot made sense, felt realistic, broke my heart, and had me smiling through the tears. It was beautifully done, and I really, really enjoyed it. In a nutshell, Taylor's summer plans are cancelled when her dad gets some devastating news, and her parents decide the family will spent one last summer at their old lake house. However, five years ago, the last time Taylor was there, Taylor didn't really leave things on good terms and is distraught about returning to face the consequences. As you can guess, it's all about second chances and desperately battling a ticking clock.

And of course, my guilty pleasure over the last few months has been the Fever Series by Karen Marie Moning. And when I say over the last few months...clearly I mean over the course of a few weeks, because that is how quickly I DEVOURED this series. It came as a complete surprise. To me. To my coworkers, who know me oh-so-well. (There were actually comments along the lines of "Brindi?! Wait. Brindi is reading that?") A little background on this and why I was so shocked I couldn't put it down: I don't read books like this or this paranormal romance genre, at least not usually (and any I have fall under the category of young adult, mainly). Secondly, it wasn't really my choice to read this. For one of my *many* reading challenges, I was to use the Good Reads recommendations tool and add a genre that I didn't normally read (i.e. paranormal). Then I had to select a book from that particular listopia. I didn't like any of the titles, or story lines, but this one was a little more appealing than the others. I began it, reluctantly. Within 24 hours, I DEVOURED it. I couldn't put it down. And before I knew it August was known as my Fever month (I made it to book five, plus the graphic novel, but I had to put them down or I was never going to read anything else. Oh, and book five is a great stopping point, in case you're wondering. Also, I had no idea how BIG this series was/is). WHO KNEW? It's crazy the good reads one can stumble upon when giving a book a chance. And while I would love to divulge more of the story line, this post is long enough. So if it's piqued your interest, check it out! With that, I'll leave you with two words: JERICHO BARRONS.

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

A Year of Reading Challenges {Part One}

Sooooo.....

Let me tell y'all about these reading challenges I've been obsessed with consumed with doing.

I know I mentioned them a few times in past posts. I hinted to them here and there, but I don't think y'all understand how FANTASTIC these reading challenges are. As if you need another reason to read, or another reason to make reading fun, these are THAT reason. I promise.

Honestly, I can't remember who started them or who found them, but my co-worker and I are in the midst of dozens of these challenges. Last spring, we found a few BINGO challenges on the Internet, which were the beginnings of our madness. One was an audio book challenge, the other full of random fun.

Soon the "BINGO!" texts were flying back and forth, and since we share an office, it was quite easy discussing which squares we had yet to mark off, how many BINGOS we had, and what books fit what criteria. For example, I read Labor Day for my "a book that became a movie" square and Seraphina for "a book with non-human characters." A few of my audio books were Doll Bones for "an audio book that scared me" and Hokey Pokey for "listened while cooking." For both of these BINGO challenges, we gave ourselves the full year to complete the card. It was so much fun, and for a few squares, like "a book with a one-word title" (for that I chose Fangirl), I had to dig into my TBR lists to find a book that would fit. It encouraged me to read books I'd been putting off or ones that have been on my list for months.

A BINGO card like this would be great for book clubs, especially when you're not sure what to read next. Once everyone has agreed on a square, for example "a book based on a true story" (for that I read Wild), then the group can vote on a title that fits the criteria. This is something I've been meaning to bring up to my own book club. They are all fully aware of my love for these reading challenges. However, I'm sure they are not aware my love has turned into an addiction. One I'm slightly embarrassed by. But not really.

These cards were quite fun. It was our new thing. And then we found a group on Good Reads which featured their own reading challenges. Ummm, a couple groups, actually. (Not that we were searching for them, ahem.) My co-worker and I were like kids in a candy store. 

One group we found, A Million More Pages, has a monthly "Scavenger Hunt" where you have 20 words you need to find while reading. You can't find them all in one book, the most for one title is five words. Once you find your 20 words, "congrats!" you finished. I've been participating since last August and including this month (May) I have finished a month's entire list TWICE. Any words you can't find rollover to next month's list and so on. Seven months later and I'm still searching for that bloody "hayride."

On the discussion boards, once the group moderator posts the word list (and you can bet we're checking as soon as we get up on the first of the month), members then re-post a copy and cross off the words as they find them. I could glance at what books other participants read for that word, but to me that takes the fun out of stumbling across the needed word while reading and shouting out (to no one in particular) "FOUND ONE!!!" For example, in the book I finished on Monday, Dancing with Fireflies, I found FOUR words from this month's list: lampshade, mother, five, and butterfly. (FYI. I was super stoked to find lampshade. I thought for sure I was going to have to rollover that one.)

This makes reading so much fun.

Other reading challenges I participated in recently consisted of spelling out words using a book's title or author first/last name, a few book cover challenges (like, the number of books you can read in a four-month period with an actual book on the cover), and monthly mini challenges. For instance, the group Wacky Reading Challenges' mini May reading assignment was to read one book that fit each of the four criteria: read a book whose title begins with "M"; read a book that is #2 in a series; read a book in which the main character is a mother; read a book with a red, white, or blue cover. As of today, I have four of the four tasks completed. Yay! Go me! Finished! (It's those Christian romances...I devour those.)

And there are so many more reading challenges!

But, I see this post is a tad long already, so I'll share a few other reading challenges in another post.

I hope this gives you an insight as to what I mean when I mention reading challenges, and if you love to read, or read a lot or read a little, or need a reason to read, definitely check out a few of these fun challenges.

It's perfectly okay to do just one challenge at a time. Or just do the monthly scavenger hunt. You don't have to become obsessed like me. I think I have about 30 different challenges going on right now....

Good thing I'm so organized.

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Three Fears {Blog Series}

I apologize for the silence. Life has been a tad stressed, definitely hectic, and a bit challenging right now. I dislike long lulls. Yes, I have dropped this ball a few times. When I took the time to look over my blog yesterday, I realized it's been a while since the "Blog Series" graced the page. So, without further ado, here is another rambling post. And if it's your first time, welcome. Enjoy these other ramblings here and here. Oh, and check out this one!

Mr. Darcy enjoy the snow. And we have a lot of it!

I came across an ice-breaker survey the other day. I can't remember where, but it was a poll asking voters to suggest and pick favorite ways to break the ice when meeting new people. I was surprised to see several people enjoyed asking and answering the question: name three legitimate fears you have and explain how they became fears.

Yikes! Talk about getting right down to it. Not something I would have thought to ask a complete stranger, but if you had the same fear it might be a quick way to connect. I find it interesting. Fears. This is a great way to learn about a person, and to quickly assess the person you've just told your fear to. Especially a legitimate fear. How the receiver responds is quite telling of their personality. <--- I promise to explain more on this below.

Sticking with the lighter side of this question, my three fears....

SPIDERS.
If you've known me longer than two seconds, I'm quite certain you know my huge, LEGITIMATE fear of spiders. I can't even overhear people or a TV program mention these creatures without my blood pressure rising. Upon hearing it, I then check every ceiling corner in the room. Often, I turn around and walk away immediately or cover my ears. I'm a very visual person and once my mind starts picturing... (let's just say I've started this paragraph and have walked away to distract myself twice already). I've been known to almost cause my husband to wreck the car because there was a spider on the window. To call him and ask him how soon he'll be home because there's one on the ceiling or behind the blinds. To beg a co-worker to get rid of the tiniest one on the wall. Panic attacks ensue if I turn the page in a book and touch a photo with one of those hideous things in it. Cleaning frenzies go on for days if I discover a cobweb in the house.

I'm not sure even when this fear first originated, but I've always been terrified. As long as I can remember. And, God help me, if I lose a spider in the bedroom. I won't sleep for days. And, if there's a spider scene coming up in a movie and you didn't warn me, I won't forgive you!!!!! This fear is serious, y'all.

And, yes, I'm very aware my spider mishaps are hilarious. I can't help it. Always happy to entertain :)

CLOWNS.
Now this isn't funny (no pun intended). I can tell you exactly when this fear became a fear in one word: IT.

Not when my parents decided it'd be cute to do my nursery in clowns, although I'm sure that had a hand in it, subconsciously. Not during parades. Not at early childhood birthday parties or noisy toys. It was that darn movie. Let me set the scene... I was staying the night at my grandparents. I was six and ready for bed, coming downstairs to give Daddy a kiss good night. He was watching a movie on TV with Grandpa. BTW, who puts this movie on TV??????!!!! I'm sure my thoughts were, "Oh, a movie with a clown and there are a bunch of kids. This must be a kids movie." I sat down to watch a little bit of it. Soon after, I left the room completely terrified. I cried into my pillow. I had nightmares for weeks. Daddy laughs about it now, but I bet he wasn't when I woke him screaming at three o'clock in the morning. Lesson learned, Papa Bear.

Yes, I freak out still if there's a clown at the parade or a party. I will be headed in the opposite direction. At my job, for the summer reading programs we'll often have a clown come out and entertain the kids. My boss understands my fear and kindly arranges for me to be elsewhere in the building. When it rains, I'm constantly looking for children and making sure they're okay and not alone. As for my earlier comment...I mentioned my fear of clowns to a co-worker at my previous job. He thought it was hilarious and joked about inviting a clown to the next staff meeting. Also, he'd ask me to look at his computer screen when there was a clown or send me emails. He wasn't my favorite person. Fears aren't funny. People have them for a reason.

FALLING DOWN THE STAIRS AND BREAKING MY NECK.
I'm a woman. Too often I'm in heels. This is LEGIT.


What fears happen to plague you? Let's chat.


With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Favorites {Blog Series}

In light of recent events, I think it's time for another fun random questions survey here on Sweet B's.

Cheers!

As Janetha mentions on her blog, I too have a hard time picking favorites. I definitely go through seasons when it comes to favorites. My favorite beverages, foods, movies, and clothes are always changing. Honestly, sometimes within the same hour.

So, whoops, some of my FAVORITES may have more than one answer.

Person. I have quite a few favorite people in my life. I married my best friend, the lucky man I want to annoy forever ;)  So let's start with Mr. B, my lobster.

And then, of course, my best GIRLfriend, who never tires of my annoyance, and gets me completely when I say things like, "I don't have a VB purse that does what I need it to do right now." "I just want to walk by Banana Republic." "I went to Starbucks twice today." "Help! I just spent an insane amount of money at Target, and Mr. B is going to kill me." "This plane doesn't even have phalanges!"

And my parents....who know why I am the person I am. And I can't leave out my beloved Grandma Bays, the woman who had the biggest influence on my life.

Color. Purple. Plum to be exact. But I'll never turn down purple-ish anything.

Food. While I do have a favorite food, I love all foods. When asked the question, "What would you eat for your last meal on Earth?" I will more than likely reply that I have my whole last day of food planned. I know what I want for breakfast, lunch, dinner, mid-day snack, dessert, and beverages. But my couscous is definitely my favorite, and I'd just really want to devour an entire bowl of that.

Smell. It changes every time I smell each of these, but these are all my favorites: rain, coffee, the smell of someone burning in the country (most folks would call this a bonfire). Oh, and the smell of a peach will stop me dead in my tracks. I will turn around and probably eat it promptly. But that's a close second to the other three. Oh, and gardenias is tied with that.

Book. Pride and Prejudice. Hands down favorite. But Gone with the Wind, Little Women, and The Princess Bride are close seconds.

Movie. It's a tie between Pretty Woman and Steel Magnolias.

Time of day. Mornings, where I find my quiet time with Jesus, that first cup of coffee, and a gorgeous sunrise. (Preferably from my new deck.)

Day of week. Sunday. It's the Lord's day, and I believe we are to rest and spend it with the ones we love. I love Sunday mornings, going to church and coming home to a big pot of something on the stove or in the oven, lazy Sunday afternoons, and lots of football! Possibly a nap curled up on the couch with the puppy.

Thing to do when bored. I don't get bored. I don't understand when people say they're bored. Well, then do something! I enjoy reading, yoga/working out, walks through the park, cooking/baking, board/card games, coffee with friends, and Netflix. But I guess if I was extremely bored, you'd probably catch me singing and dancing around the house. Or...I might be taking this little guy for a car ride.

Celebrity. Ummm, I'm sure my movie favorites gave that away. It's Julia Roberts. (But I'll never say no to Jeremy Renner.)

Beverage. Coffee!!!!!!! (If you have any doubts, please read this post and then this one.)

TV Show. F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Like there is anything else?

Fruit. Peaches. Every time I eat a peach I look at Mr. B and say, "Peaches are my absolute favorite. When someone asks what your wife's favorite fruit is, it's peaches." He then replies, "You say that about every fruit. You said it about strawberries last week." "NO. PEACHES ARE MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE." This conversation exchange happens.every.day.

Vegetables. I'd say tomatoes, but then you'd say that's a fruit, so I'm answering CORN. But just so you know, I can't pick between the two. Mr. B says I must choose one. Why? Why must I choose? When will I ever be in the position where I must choose one over the other?! (Apparently, when answering surveys like this.) Over the last week I've been enjoying on average two ears a day. It's the best.

Store/Shop. Target. Banana Republic. Starbucks. Vera Bradley Outlets.

Workout. YOGA. All kinds, any time of day. (But I do like a good kickboxing class.)

Quote. Here are a few current favorites....

"But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength." --2 Timothy 4:17

"Until I feared I would lose it, I never loved to read. One does not love breathing." --Harper Lee

 "Some people look for a beautiful place. Others make a place beautiful." --Hazrat Inayat Khan

"You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there's still going to be somebody who hates peaches." --Unknown

Potato chip flavor. Hmmm, I am not a chip fan, so when it comes down to this snack I would say tortilla chips. Or better yet, pita chips.

Meal of the day. BREAKFAST! I am a firm believer about starting your day right. Your body has fasted all night long, and it needs something to kick start your day. Whether it's coffee and an apple with almond butter, juice/smoothie, a bowl full of oats, or a full plate of eggs and waffles, you'll never find me missing this meal.

Ice cream flavor. Coffee! or something with peanut butter in it. And it has to be a peanut butter ripple, not peanut butter cups. YUM.

Season. Fall. Of course, it's Fall.

Dessert. Well, it used to be cheesecake, which I treated myself to twice a year (my birthday and Mama's Thanksgiving Cheesecake Special). But as I said, in light of recent events, I'm sticking with ice cream. Homemade. In a bowl. A Sundae. Waffle cone, only please. Full-fat variety. Fro-yo. Gelato. Even my banana "ice cream." Yes, I'm a fan of them all. People who say they don't care for ice cream (Mr. B included), who are you? I don't think I've ever been more dumbfounded by any other statement.

Lifehack. Using a straw to pit your cherries. Bring on the pie, please! (BTW, I found this question to be quite random.)


With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Seriously?! and a List {Blog Series}

Y'all will never believe what happened! Don't worry. I took plenty of pictures.

Around 1 a.m. this past Wednesday, Mr. B and I were alarmingly awoken by a drunk driver running into our deck. Praise the Lord no one was injured and the house (other than siding, gutters, and minor window scrapes) wasn't damaged. All of the neighbors were out conversing with the police and firefighters, while a paramedic warned us to not come out our front door. After heading out the back door and assessing the damage, we are very thankful we had a deck in the first place. If not, I'm sure the car would have landed in our living room and halfway up the stairs.

Apparently, the drunk driver came flying out of the park entrance across the street and forgot the road ended. Instead of turning, he came straight into our neighbor's yard, crashed into our deck, restarted his car, took off through the rest of our yard, and into the other neighbor's yard before making it back onto the street and fleeing the scene. (Be thankful for your neighbors.) Not only did this kid take off, he then walked back up to the scene and tried to give the police false information. The police followed him back to his house, which is caddy-corner to our own house(!), and discovered the damaged car hiding in his garage. Yes, he was heavily intoxicated, refuse to take a breathalyzer, and has four other accidents on his record, along with prior arrests for drug possession.

To top it all off, he is driving with stolen plates and NO CAR INSURANCE. Y'all, these winners are hard to find.

How is he still allowed to drive?!

FAN-freaking-TASTIC.

Needless to say, we are not happy campers over here. After multiple conversations with our insurance, we're in the process of making a claim, waiting for the insurance people to come out and take pictures, and finding a contractor to rebuild our deck. Oh, and the deck is beyond repair and needs to come down completely. We were informed this cannot be done without cutting into the siding of our house. There is a very high possibility that are particular color of siding is no longer available. Therefore, we may have to get new siding for the ENTIRE house.

It's very hard to observe this pleasant young man and his mother across the street every day, and neither has had the decency to even contact us to apologize or anything. Mr. B's desperate self-control is admirable.

But what's most important here is no one was hurt. The house is fine. The deck and grill can be replaced. Thank you, Jesus!

Ai. Yi. Yi. The joys of home-ownership.

On a lighter note, I stumbled across another list gem while catching up on Jessica's blog. You know me and my lists, especially lists about what's going through my head as of late. After this week's events, I'm not sure y'all may want to know. But, alas, I need focus elsewhere. [It's more of an extension to my "Currently" posts.]

Eating / Corn on the cob and a lot of it. Ice cream. Ice cream. Ice cream. And juicy peaches perfect for cobbler.
Drinking / Two things. Homemade Strawberry Lemonade. Cashing in my free drink reward and splurging on a Venti Caramel Frappy with 5 shots of espresso and praying the barista is kind and gives me my extra cup of overflowing goodness because.I.desperately.need.it (see above scenario).
Practicing / yoga yoga yoga. one of the only thing that makes me feel sane. <--- borrowing Jessica's exact words. You would not believe how little I'm able to fit in my mat time between the new puppy, Summer Reading craziness, and the unfortunate demolition of our deck. Mr. B has, on more than one occasion, found me in tears. When asked what's wrong I admit my stress is quite high and I haven't been able to practice for more than 5 minutes. I'm really needing to just head out and hit up a yoga class ASAP. However, these less than 10-minute pilates videos are great for my business.
Mastering / a handstand. I'm participating in the #summersplits2014 yoga challenge and while the whole point is to master the splits, I'm realizing mastering the handstand first would be quite helpful.
Learning / to LET go. and to LET GOD. Seriously need to work on this (which is usually what I'm doing when I'm practicing my asanas).
Trying / to choose easier and faster weeknight meals. It's summer and I should be happy just throwing together BLTs and salads. But my inner cook wants to always try something new...ugh.
Playing / volleyball in our backyard. Mr. B, I think it's time the net goes up!!
Finishing / my intention was my summer bucket list, now it's a new deck before summer ends. Reading / Written in My Own Heart's Blood. Drop everything. Put every other book aside. The newest Outlander installment has been released and found it's way onto my desk yesterday morning. Now, to find the time...I'm sure sleep may be sacrificed!
Remembering / life is short. Things could be worse. Material things don't matter. GOD IS GOOD.
Wearing / SUN DRESSES!!!! Sun dresses GALORE!
Cooking / grilling up some pizzas. It's too dang hot to cook. Oh wait, we are currently without a grill :(
Working / Summer Reading programs. This may be the only time I will actually get my yoga in! I'm excited.
Traveling / to Maine this October. Mr. B and I really need to sit down and decide where exactly we'd like to go. Any suggestions?
Wanting / more hours in the day. But realistically, more coffee and ice cream would suffice.

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

all things SUMMER

Sunshine. Thunderstorms. Muggy, sleepless nights. Bugs. Bugs. And more bugs. Batches of iced coffee. Neighbors mowing lawns. Garden bed preparations. Sun tea.

If these aren't signs summer is knocking on the door, then you probably live in Ohio I don't know what is. But they've definitely put me in the SUMMER mood. I say this as I'm looking at the week's forecast and Friday's high is a cloudy 56. Yep. Cloudy with a chance of meatballs. (side note: I'm not a huge meatball fan, never have been. I'll take my spaghetti without, thank you. Actually, I'm not a spaghetti fan either. I think I'll stop there before you write me off completely.)

Of course, this calls for a list. If you know me at all you know this is a must and my blog title alone alerted you to another Sweet B's Type-A lists. So, let's hop to it. My SUMMER bucket list looks like....

• drink freshly squeezed lemonade and often
• invite friends and family over for a cookout
• get back into running with the hubby
• drink at least 60 oz of water daily
• buy a new pair of cheap, brightly colored sunglasses
• cross off some DIY projects
• hit up garage sales!
• make 1 night a week HOMEMADE PIZZA night
• take a few day trips (to some outlet malls and the West Side Market)
• make homemade gifts for friends and family
• enjoy my morning coffee on the deck
• get Mr. B to take me to more fairs and festivals
• and, of course, consume as many vinegar-soaked fair fries as possible
• go berry picking (but it has to be with Mama and my aunt because these adventures are hilarious)
• learn or try 1 new thing
• throw a themed party
• hit up the batting cages
• miniature golf!
• visit a new place
• make homemade ice cream in a coffee can
• make 1 night a week SALAD night (it's too hot to cook)
• take my yoga practice outside
• VOLLEYBALL!
• enjoy daily walks to the park
• multiple park picnics
• go to the Drive-In (Mr. B and I haven't been since our early dating days)
• put my homemade ice cream maker to more use this summer (I say this every summer and then end up only using it once or twice)
• buy a few new sun dresses (ooh and hats!)
• cross off a few 30 before 30 items
• star-gaze on the garage roof
• paint the living room
• re-design a few old T-shirts
• make 1 night a week TACO night (with plenty of avocado)
• go to the zoo
• finally buy the contraption that will allow me to make popsicles. YUM.
• read 8 more books on my Bingo Card (so far 9 spaces are complete)
• cross off a few Life Bucket items
• more date nights with Mr. B
• more family game nights on the patio
• tend my garden a little more often this year
• roast some pizzas and pies over a bonfire
•  FIREWORKS
• enjoy multiple corn-on-the-cob-and-watermelon dinners
• make weekly trips to the Farmer's Market
• fondue dinner
• dance in the rain...or a water fight sounds good too
• get in plenty of car washes
• make banana splits
• indulge in homemade peach cobbler
• possibly a theme park...

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Real Life---> Wellness & a Salad

I find it comical that I'm sitting here writing a wellness post for y'all while I'm recovering from the 24-hour stomach flu, which took me out completely this past weekend. And I mean OUT. I missed worked, fretted over program coverage, high fever, dazed and confused for sure. I don't get sick, and when I do it's usually a bout of sinuses and very rarely a head cold. Praise Jesus that I don't get nauseous because I can't handle it. I think it is the worse feeling in the world. Give me a fever. I'll take a whole week of severe allergies if it means I don't have to be nauseous. Lord, help me if and when I become pregnant someday (not that plans for that are soon, mind you.) Actually, Lord, help my husband. I'm sure that will be a definite "for worse."

But after two days of stomaching only soda crackers and a sip or two of Ginger Ale (and then spilling said Ginger ale all over the coffee table rug), I'm feeling much better. Just in time for Monday. Instead of busting out my yoga mat or the new Pilates challenge I was eager to start (just delaying it a day or two) on this dreary, albeit muggy, morning, I'm allowing myself a full day to recover, easing my way back into my routine. So I'm bundled up on the couch enjoying my protein shake, ready to share a few wellness highlights I've been participating in these past few months.

The first involves my place of employment. Over the past year, my job has formed a Wellness Committee in order to encourage its employees to make healthier lifestyle choices by providing diet and exercise motivation. I have the opportunity of serving on this committee and have found it very interesting how differently people view "wellness." Some challenges the committee has organized include:

• "Lose to Win" This was a 12-week program running from mid October through mid December. Each employee weighed themselves on a scale in the office, and whoever lost the most weight/body fat won. Also, it was a team effort, so the winning team won Walgreen's gift cards. (I'm proud to say I was on the winning side of this one.) Yet, I think most employees were discouraged with this program because of the whole weighing-in.
• "Racin' Route 66" was an 8-week program. Those participating calculated the amount of steps he/she took every day. Employees were given pedometers to count the steps. The individual who went the farthest distance received a Fit Bit Flex. Since it was a team challenge, each member of the winning team received Fit Bit Zips. (I now have an indentation on my hip from the pedometer. Ouch.) On a side note: it's actually National Odometer Day.

"Racin' Route 66" was the most recent wellness challenge, and it just ended last week. I am a very competitive person, and to say my team actually came in last(!) is upsetting. Who would have thought the Youth Librarians would end up dead last?! As another co-worker and I joked, next time we pick our own teams. A little competition and humor is good for everyone. Losing is sad, humbling, and motivational, so I keep telling my wounded pride. The goal of the whole challenge: to get people to realize how little they actually walk every day. Instead of emailing or calling, if you can, get out of your chair and walk over to the other person. Instead of playing on the computer or reading on all of your breaks, take a 20-minute walk (weather permitting, or stairs permitting, of course). And from what I overheard throughout the last eight weeks, it sounded like we accomplished just that. We brought awareness to how often we sit throughout our day. And unless I did something outside of work, on the days I worked, I wasn't very active. Unless I have a program going on, I am mostly sitting at my desk. Learning this was discouraging; however, I'm now more conscious of what I need to do outside of work to keep active. I make better use of sunny days and 20-minute breaks. I make an effort to walk around my department more, to walk to my co-worker's desk to speak with her (although she might find this annoying), to take that walk before or after dinner as often as I can. Would I be too nerdy if I told you I'm looking forward to the next challenge?

Source: Google Images

Another little personal "wellness" thing I've been doing, now that more fruits and vegetables are in season, is adding salads to my daily meals. If not adding, then I'm aiming to make one meal a day a big salad. My most recent creation is this healthy tuna salad I've been devouring. Yet, I'm limiting myself with these because I know there is all this talk about high mercury levels in tuna and you shouldn't eat it too often. Oh, but it's so good.

Healthier Tuna Salad with Arugula
Serves 1

1 pouch tuna in water (or 2-3 oz)
2 cups arugula
1/4 c cucumber, chopped
1/4 c bell pepper, chopped
1/4 c tomato, chopped
1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
splash of olive oil
splash of balsamic vinegar
sprinkle of pepper

Layer ingredients in a bowl and top with oil, vinegar, and pepper. Enjoy with a few crackers. YUM-O.

Also it's National Salad Month, so eat up!

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

20 Things {Blog Series}

I found myself with a little extra free time today, and I came across this neat little list about blog topics, conversation starters, ice-breaker questions, etc. I thought, how fun! More random stuff to entertain my readers. Sweet. I'll try to fit in these short, informational posts once a month or so. You're welcome ;)

So kicking off this new "Blog Series" are my 20 random facts. For more randomness, check out this post.

1. I'm an Irish twin. My younger brother and I are the same age for one day.
2. Gardenias and calla lilies are my favorites.
3. I never had a manicure or color on my hair. All natural over here. However, I think I would thoroughly enjoy a pedicure.
4. I can spend hours in Target, literally. I just need a warm Starbucks beverage in hand, a buddy, and a reason, and before you know it, hours have passed and I have a full basket of items I didn't know I needed. It's my favorite store. (Actually, my absolute favorite is Banana Republic, but I can't really afford to shop there as often. My bank account and Mr. B are my constant reminders.)
5. I am in full belief a bucket of fair fries with vinegar is a perfectly healthy dinner during fair season.
6. I eat a Granny Smith apple with raw almond butter every.single.day.
7. I collect coffee mugs, Vera Bradley, and cookbooks. (And magnets from vacation trips.) Oh, and family Christmas ornaments!
8. My favorite number is 8. I learned recently it's considered a power number. If I can't have 8, then I'll select something with an 8 in it or a dividend of 8. I am all about an even 8.
9. I have a tattoo on my hip of a pink and blue butterfly. I have it for two reasons, 1) a butterfly is a symbol of rebirth. A re-dedication of my life. Christ is often compared to a butterfly. 2) it's in remembrance of my paternal grandparents. I lost both of them to cancer.
10. I drink my coffee black, mostly it's straight espresso. Unless I'm treating myself, then it's a Caramel Macchiato. Extra espresso. Multiple shots, please.
11. Besides dogs, my favorite animals are penguins, squirrels (black!), and tigers. Those tigers are absolutely beautiful.
12. Never do I go anywhere without a book.
13. Or slippers. I always have slippers with me. Because, you know, it's cold sometimes.
14. I prefer, actually, to do the dishes by hand myself. I've been doing dishes since I could stand on a chair and help, so I can get those suckers done faster than Mr. B can clear the table. But I LOATHE drying.
15. I'm terrified of scary movies! In my tween years I quite enjoyed scary movies. As I grew up, I'd watch them every once in a while. I was home from college one summer and had my eyes "covered" as I watched a few parts of The Grudge. I remember Daddy telling me to just turn it off if I was scared. I didn't. I was determined to see it through. BUT, a year or so later I decided to watch The Strangers on Halloween night, alone in our apartment (Mr. B was working midnights at the time), with all of the lights on. I have never been more petrified in my entire life. I had to fast forward through parts so I'd know what was coming. I remember watching it through tears and fingers. Afterwards, I declared "never again!" and stayed up until Mr. B came home around 6 a.m. I haven't watched a scary movie since.
16. I think fennel is the devil. It's probably worse than my dislike for pineapple. However, I will probably never eat pineapple again so I can't give you an adequate answer.
17. I dream very vividly multiple times a night, and usually remember them. Mr. B however never does. It's a very rare occasion when he has a dream to tell me about. I, on the other hand, have about five to recall to him upon waking.
18. I have troubles spelling weird. I can never remember if it's ei or ie. Instead I'm always finding a way to say that's odd....ha! Also, in 4th grade I came in third place in my school's spelling bee because of that forgotten "c" in AntarCtica. Never again! <--- she says with a shaking fist.
19. I listen to Christmas music all year round. Love my Pandora stations shuffle option.
20. I jump at every chance to make a list :)

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Starting Anew

Now that we're a week into the New Year, I feel it's time to share my views on 2014. There are a few things I'd like to bring into my daily life and some I'd prefer to let go. I'm not big on the word "resolution" because I think today people throw it around and it doesn't hold it's meaning any more, like a resolution is something to break or to not follow through. I prefer to use habits, or goals. Something that sounds inspiring and motivates me to accomplish what I set out to do.

Two things I'm really trying to let go of this upcoming year....

Worrying.
Checking my phone close to bed time.

I am a completely different person when it comes to worrying than I was four years ago. I'd just graduated with a BA in English from Kent State University and had dreams of working in the publishing industry. Six months later I was still unemployed, and to add to the worry, in the middle of planning my wedding. The student loan bills started to pile up. I lost it. One sunny day in June I had a complete breakdown at the kitchen table after I calculated how much a month I owed in student loan debt. My only debt. I was on my knees pouring out my fears to God before I even knew what I was doing. I gave it all to Him that day. I kept falling back on his promise for strength, "Be not, therefore, like them; for your Father knows what things you have need of, before you ask him" (Matthew 6:8 KJV). This scripture also stayed with me, "Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much better than they?" (Matthew 6:26 KJV). These words became a rock for me. That day I decided I would do what I could and I would not worry one more minute over these finances. And I haven't. There will be times when a payment might go up or something new comes along, and I start to feel a slight panic. But I remember quickly that I gave this to God; I will not take it back from Him.

See, here is where I believe Christians make the biggest mistake. We say we "gave it to God," yet we continue to talk about it. As soon as it comes around again, we're worrying, stressing, panicking, and crying out. It's like an endless cycle. Doing this tells God we don't trust Him, and we take on this unnecessary worry when we don't need to. Trust Him. I did that day and have not looked back. On a note card I wrote down Matthew 7:7 (KJV): "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you," and taped it to my fridge. It's still there to this day, and I am at peace. Everything worked out: a month later I made the decision to get my master's in Library and Information Science, three months later I found work in a writing center, and almost four years later here I am, a Children's Librarian. It's beautiful, God's plan.

And, wow, I didn't mean to get off onto this tangent. What I really wanted to say with the whole worrying thing is lately I find myself worrying (not constantly, but sometimes something will creep up) about things that don't matter at all. Like how I'm so busy I can't fit in all of my fun hobbies any more (and when will I fit in "me" time when I have kids!), taking the smallest off comment and turning it into something it's not, creating some dramatic scenario in my head (that hasn't even happened) and running it into the ground. Worrying about future incidents before they even arise. This year I'm letting even the slightest worry go. No more rushing through something just to worry about when the next thing will get done.

And on a lighter note, my smartphone. Compared to some people I know, I don't even have an issue. But I do find myself checking up on things when I used to not care, or felt it could wait until tomorrow. I'd like to start putting my phone aside an hour before bed time with more focus on winding down from the day and less powering up. I feel my smartphone is an intrusion on my calming "me" time at night.


Lastly, a short list of a few things I'd like to add this year....

Finally get our puppy! (Picture source: Tumbler)

Attend more yoga classes (even though this can be sort of expensive, but it'll be my weekly treat). I'd also like to incorporate more meaningful yoga practices into my routine. For example, a co-worker and I have embarked on the 28-day Yogalosophy (yoga + knowledge) challenge. I'll be posting about this when we finish :)

More walks. Despite the chilly weather, I'm ready to bundle up and head to the park!

More date nights with my hubby. More exploring our [new] hometown, doing different things, enjoying our time together instead of rushing through it.

No more throwing away leftovers (or unused produce). I will become a leftover and freezer queen.

Develop a more disciplined routine....in many areas of my life, like eating habits, strength training, making a good night's sleep a priority. Creating a routine for my mornings and evenings so I don't feel obligated to get out my mat or finish the day's devotional, but enjoying it because it's naturally what I do.

Source

And it's National Stick-To-Your-New-Year's-Resolution Day. Cheers!

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Thirty Before Thirty

Hey y'all.

I celebrated my 27th birthday last Friday. Hap-py, Hap-py, Hap-py Birthday to me!

My celebrations started the day before (on my brother's birthday like they always do, of course) with my family treating me to the county fair, dinner, ice cream, and the Sidewalk Prophets concert, and yes it was unbelievably hotttt.

I just so happened to have my birthday off this year, so my best friend, Jessica, treated me to a picnic lunch at the Cleveland Art Museum, which included wine and a few bites of my favorite desserts. We then went to the Botanical Gardens, where I perused the oldest book I'll probably ever hold. A book from the 1400's found in their rare books collection. As a librarian I was ecstatic. <----nerd, I know. And then we went to Starbucks...for my birthday beverage! Afterwards, we went back to her house so she and her adorable 2 1/2-year-old little boy, Myles, (love this little guy!) could give me my presents....which resulted in the following:

Jessica: Myles, go in the house with Auntie Dee, and we'll give her the presents.
Myles: Okay. (and then to me) My dad is home.
Me: I see that.

I follow him in the house and before I can set my stuff down, he grabs my birthday card off the kitchen table, handing it to me.

Myles: Open it! Open it!
Me: Okay (I open it and attempt to read it, but before I can he's handing me a present.)
Myles: Open it!
Me: (putting the card down and taking the present) Oooohhh, what is it?
Myles: Coffee.
Jessica: (giggling from the kitchen) Myles, You're not supposed to tell her!

Okay, so I didn't think he was actually going to tell me. And the fact that he knew I was holding the coffee present and not the candle, which were very similar in shape, amazed me. AND he's speaking in full sentences! When did he grow up into this smart, creative, and conversational toddler?! (And, in case you were wondering, I did not ask what the other gifts were....I like surprises.)

And speaking of surprises, guess what the hubby gave me this year for my birthday....a new GLASS bowl for my Kitchen Aid stand mixer. This will now take mine and Jessica's Baking Extravaganzas to new levels.

Anyhoo, the main point for this post is to share with you all my "30 before 30" list. This list has been in my head for a while now, and I just feel the need to share. Most of the items are small, insignificant things I want to accomplish, while others have laid on my heart for a while. Writing them down holds me accountable. You can hold me accountable. I have three years to make it happen....and go.

Own 1 dog, whether through a breeder or adoption. (Mr. B and I are still compromising on a breed.)

MR. DARCY (Our Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy at 9 weeks.)

Compete in 2 races of some sort.

Make 3 new friends.
xx
Send 4 of my favorite books to 4 of my favorite people.

Purchase the 5 kitchen items I've been meaning to buy for ages. (bigger food processor, pizza stone, juicer, Popsicle maker, hand-held blender)
xxxx
Buy 6 fun and flirty sundresses.
xxxx
Visit 7 new places.

Pay it forward: Buy 8 people their coffee.
my co-workers have cashed in on this ;)
Mail 9 hand-written letters.

Send 10 people "Thinking About You" cards.
xxxxx
Make 11 different flavors of homemade ice cream. (Giving them cool names centered around book titles/book club.)

Complete 12 devotionals.
xxxxx   xx
Take 13 yoga classes.
xxxxx
Take homemade food to 14 family members/friends.
xxxxx   xxxx
Try 15 new desserts.
xxxxx   xxxx
Compliment 16 strangers.
xxxxx   xxxxx
Pamper myself 17 times with special spa days (at home or professional).
xxxx
Enjoy 18 sunsets at the park near our house.
xxxx
Learn/Try 19 new things.
xxxxx   xxx
Write 20 prayer thank-yous to remember the amazing blessings of my twenties.

Daniel-Fast for 21 days.

Do 22 random acts of kindness.
xxxxx   xxx

Try 23 new cookie recipes.
xxxxx   xxx
Spend no extra money for 24 days straight, saving it for a rainy day.

Listen to 25 audio books.

Enjoy 26 date nights with my husband.
xxxxx   xxxxx   xxxxx   xxxxx
Celebrate 27 ridiculous National Holidays.
xxxx
Read 28 Newbery Medal winners.
xxxxx   xxxxx   xxxxx   xx
Devote 29 blog posts to my favorite 29 things.
xxxxx   x
Donate $30 to a charity.


*Check back for progress updates! I'll place an X next to each entry to tally as I complete. Once fully completed I'll strike through.
**Updated on 4/16/15

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Takin' It To Work

Hola!

I'm embarking on a new challenge, and this one's a little longer than my previous weekly challenges. I'm committing myself to 58 days of "Brown Bag Lunches." Which means...I'm packing my lunch for 58 work days straight. (Why 58? Why not? I like 8s.) --->However, this excludes the days I'll be in Chicago, in which the challenge will be halted and promptly resumed upon my return :)

I am a huge advocate of bringing my own lunch, but I haven't been doing a very stellar job as of late. My problem: my produce is going bad faster than I can eat it. So, by the time mid-week rolls around, what I planned on making is no longer edible. Easy solve: buy produce again in the middle of the week. Ummm...."ain't nobody got time for that."

(My OCD grammar side had a very hard time allowing me to type that previous statement. I think I owe Mama a quarter.*)

Another possible solution: stop being lazy and prepare my lunches on Sunday, freezing fruits and veggies if needed. Plus, I have soooooo many easy portable lunch pins (uh, I may have a problem) I'm dying to try and this challenge will help me hop to it!

Lately, my lunches have consisted of a wrap, like this one, or a turkey sandwich (either from Subway or Panera, at least I'm still choosing healthy-ish dining out choices...or a salad from Chipotle). And this is usually a result of my poor lunch planning in the first place. When I look at a wrap I forgot half the ingredients to, the bowl of wilted lettuce, or the even smaller bowl of watermelon, my mind starts to crave a tasty sandwich.

Alas, Day #1 of challenge is no different. This was supposed to be a delicious lunch using leftovers from last night's tacos, but I forgot half the ingredients....tomato, avocado, and plain Greek Yogurt. Having only corn, black beans, and a mixture of brown rice and quinoa made for one dry meal. But very filling with quite the dose of protein.

So, here's to tastier and healthier lunches, more money in my pocket, and discovering some new favorites!

(*When I was little I used to say "I got that" instead of "I have that." Mama decided for every "got" she heard I owed the Grammar Jar a quarter. Thankfully, I'm a fast learner and that was one looong summer. But still to this day, I cringe when I hear someone say "got" and am automatically digging for change.)

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi