The Truth...

The last few weeks have been challenging. Who am I kidding??? The last few months have. I've kept it pretty quiet. But in June, I suffered 2 concussions, in just a few days. It really did a number on me. By the end of July, I was still in a lot of pain. Having constant migraines. Being forced to take a temporary leave, from the hospital. Honestly, I really couldn't function.

A lot of this, has to do with my past. I was a cheerleader for 5 years. Competitive cheerleader. With a coach, that we nicknamed "Hitler." If you knew her, you'd know why. In my senior year, I was hurt. I suffered 10 concussions, in just 1 week. Everyone around me, could see that I was barely functioning. I'm almost positive, during that week, I spent more time in the nurse's office...than I did in my classes. :( But I tried to stay positive. Tried to hide my pain. My constant dizziness. And my constant nausea.

I'd convinced my parents, that I was OK. But also, begged my Dad to drive me to school. That entire week. And when it was time to head home, go to a game, or whatever other school activity I had...I'd ask a friend. Which was completely, out of the ordinary for me. By that Friday, I really was barely going.

I remember there being a school assembly. And just praying, that I'd make it through that hour. That included a dance performance, a cheer performance, and the other craziness that we were supposed to be doing. Sometime during our cheer performance, "That Girl," landed square on my head. And somehow, in that instance, I knew something was different.

I barely made it through that hour. In so much pain. Struggling to stand. The minute the gym cleared, my Dad was trying to figure out if I was OK. Other parents were arguing with my coach. By that night, I was on doctor's orders. No more cheering. Until I had healed. At least a 6 week period.

I remember the doctor, scolding my Dad. Who happened to be the one, that took me to the doctor. He explained how serious this was. How many concussions I'd had in just 1 week. And what my future would hold, if I didn't stop all of this. I was out for 6 weeks. No "ifs," "ands," or "buts" about it!

BUT, we were heading to Nationals. In just a few weeks. What was a girl to do? Oh, my coach was not pleased!!! Not at all. I couldn't dance, in her dance class. I couldn't workout, practice, or do anything at games. Pretty much, if it was something that challenged me physically, I couldn't do it. If it was too loud, I was to remove myself. If it was too chaotic, I was to be no part of it.

But it was Nationals. My coach was beyond angry. The trip was paid for. And it was my senior year. After about 10 days, I talked to my parents. If I continued to be benched, not be involved in anyway, in stunts, and just took it easy...they'd let me go.

This is the point, that most people would think, we're all crazy!!! We were. But I was determined. I became the official "Sign and Banner" girl, during our performance. Which included me doing 2 jumps, dancing, and a lot of "Crowd Involvement."

That trip was a bit miserable. We left in the wee hours of December 26. My uncle, had past away, the night before. But we were headed to Dallas. On a plane with a "broken wing." We didn't get far. Not just because of our plane, but because of the "unusual blizzard." Eventually, we made it to Dallas.

It got worse. There was lots of fighting. Freezing temps, blizzard conditions, our coach was so sick. It was just miserable. Our performance went OK. Nothing to write home about. And then, we were expected to spend 2 days at Six Flags. In the snow!!! Um, I couldn't even ride the rides. I was miserable.

As you can tell, I didn't take good care of myself. For that, I suffer today. I've had a handful of concussions in the last 10 years. Each one, is much more debilitating to me. I find myself suffering from migraines. Unable to do much. Out for much longer periods of time.

So when My Guy suffered a concussion in late August, I knew immediately. Partly due to my "Day Job." Partly due to my past. I was surprised, when the doctor "cleared" him. And just told him to take it easy.

Then, just a few weeks ago, he suffered another. The impact, was much harder. In all, he had 3 concussions, in just 6 weeks. And suddenly, our world came "Screeching to a Halt." This man wasn't going to be able to work. At least for 2 weeks. Maybe longer. We weren't sure.

This time, he was to not watch TV, play video games, or get on the computer. He had to stay away from too much action, noise, and busy-ness in general. Essentially, we were to make him rest. Monitor his headaches, and other symptoms.

Normally, it wouldn't be too bad. OK, yes it would. He's still a man, after all. One that doesn't like to appear weak. But after making him go to the doctor, being diagnosed, and realizing the seriousness of the situation...he knew he had to stop. Just as I had done, a few months ago.

Oh, but this time around, we had nearly 100 people in town. Just for 2 events. Besides the people that had paid to attend these events. 100 personal guests. Our friends understood. As did family. And this guy's co-workers. Did it make it any easier? Not really...

The two of us, found other ways to entertain ourselves. Lots of talking. Tons of napping. And just enjoying life in the "Slow Lane." Something we don't do. Not ever!!! Days would pass. He'd feel better. Insisting, that he could go back to work. But really, he couldn't. He couldn't even drive a car. Hello!?!?!?

Until today. Just now. After 2 days of doctors' appointments, tests, and "real life" situations. He's been officially cleared. And life, is apparently, back to normal. :) My Love, is healed!!!

The first week, was tough. But we learned so much about one another. The second week, was a bit more relaxing. We slept a lot. A LOT!!! The beginning of this week, we were just flat out anxious. Again, some of our best friends, were in town. To finally get some of those postponed events done.

It's been a challenge. Especially, if you knew the second part of this. My Dad hasn't been doing well either. Just before this round of concussions, I'd been home. To help my parents. My Dad is just struggling right now. I really do wish, that I could have spent more time with them. Just being there to help out. But I'm just glad, that I got to be there, for the short time, that I was. Helping were I could.

As you can tell, it's been a very chaotic, and hectic time. I've turned to God, more times, than I can possibly count. I'm grateful to God, that he is with us, when we need him most. Comforting us. Giving us strength.

With our news, just a little while ago, the chaos starts again. At least, until Thanksgiving. :) I need to run to the store, get packing, and wrap my head around all of this. It's just been such a tough time. And I pray, that the remainder of our year, has a little less "action." ♥

Decisions...

This has been the roughest Summer, I've had in a long while! I know I put on a brave face. I smile at everything. Tell people everything is roses. But it's been tough! So much so, I debated not taking classes this semester. I'm just worn out. Between my health, trying to help my parents, and our constant traveling...I'm barely above water.

To be honest, I really didn't want to go back to school either. I'm just "Burnt the Heck Out!" And tired. Exhausted! Yes, it's exhaustion at this point.

I started doing all the paperwork, to take a semester off. Yes, at this point of my program, I have to ask for permission, to take time off. Had the envelopes addressed. All that stuff. Then on my way to the Post Office, I made a quick stop. And I found these...



Yes! And so much more! And it got me thinking about school again. How I can suck it up. I can do this. I have just enough money, to cover my down payments, books, supplies, insurance for my internships, and all that good stuff.

I decided to do this again. I figure, if it's too much, I have until the end of September to withdraw. If my health doesn't get better. If my parents need me. If I'm spread too thin. I've got around 6 weeks, to make this decision.

And for me, maybe it was the school supplies that encouraged me. Maybe it's what I needed. Just that little push. You know, to get me motivated again. Because honestly, this "defeat," is not part of my character. I'm just praying for another good semester. Because sometimes, being a "Grown Up," is really hard work. ♥

Mom's Blackberry Jam

I have something to admit. I'm a HUGE fan of berries. All berries. And of homemade jams, jellies, and preserves. I've only made them a handful of times. With My Guy's grandma. She is so good at it! Never uses recipes. And ALWAYS comes up with wonderful treats for us!

For a while now, I've wanted to make my own. And just couldn't think, of what type I'd make. I bought some apricots last week. Then I ate them all! :) Then I tried raspberries. Oh, but those were delish too!

As you can tell, I've had this on my mind,m for a while now. My Mom and I, had also been talking about making some preserves. Maybe peach. Because one of their employees, brought them a few sacks of peaches. Yum!

Well, all of this made more sense, when I saw this week's Gooseberry Patch, Free Recipe of the Week. Blackberry Jam! I immediately knew, I had to make it. I ran to the store, bought all the blackberries I could find. And when this guy got home from work, we had jars and jars of Blackberry Jam!!!



Mom's Blackberry Jam

4 c. blackberries, washed and hulled
4 c. sugar
4 1/2-pint canning jars and lids, sterilized

Place blackberries in a large Dutch oven; just cover with water. Bring to a rolling boil; add sugar. Boil until mixture drips thickly from a wooden spoon, about 30 to 45 minutes. Spoon into hot sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims; secure with lids and rings. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes; set jars on a towel to cool. Check for seals. Makes 4 jars.



So let me be honest with you, it was wonderful! Super easy to make. And if you've ever wanted to try your hand at canning, this would be the recipe to try. It's ridiculously easy! And delish!

Oh, and it doesn't hurt, that I have a GREAT history with blackberries. Growing up, our neighbors had a HUGE blackberry bush. For days and days, maybe even weeks, my friend and I would eat blackberries. Straight from the bush. We didn't bother washing them. They were that good, and sweet!

Now that I have this under my belt, I think I'm going to try some more. I'd LOVE to make some strawberry preserves. Or apple butter. And my Mom wants to try something with those yummy peaches. Oh Gooseberry Patch, I think you created a "Canning Monster!" ♥

Beautiful Inspiration

I've been "On the Fence" about my home. There is a Realtor, that is very interested in my home. So much so, I'd make a good deal of money, with the sale. As in, more than double what paid for it...11 years ago.

But it's my home. Although, I spend little to no time there. It's my "security blanket." And I'm not totally sure about parting ways. Not just yet. Instead, I'm looking at putting a lot of TLC into my home. Since I decided to spend more time in the Southwest this Summer, I've also decided to tackle some "Home Projects."

First up, is some not so fun stuff. Back in May, I worked for 2 weeks. In music stuff. And added to my "nest egg." Because I've known for a while now, that I NEED a new roof. And let me tell you, they are NOT CHEAP!!! A family friend, owns a roofing business in the area. Their estimate, is between $40,000-50,000. Way too high for me! So I'm still on the search. I also have a pretty urgent plumbing issue to fix. Another $500 project. :( Oh, and a new hot water heater...

Those are 3 HUGE projects. Very costly! But there are also many smaller things, that I can tackle. Can I be honest here? I bought paint almost 18 months ago. And that's one project that I'm ready to tackle. Lots of painting! A little sewing. I NEED some curtains. Oh, and a little yard work. :)

But I'm not disappointed. These are things that NEED to get done. But I'm also looking for some inspiration. Not only is this my first home. But it's definitely a "Girl Home." I've got tons of candles, throw pillows, and fun colors.

With a limited decorating budget, due to the important work that needs to be done, I've gone to Pinterest for a little inspiration. Oh, and let me tell you, I'm not disappointed! Just wondering, how much I can get done in 2 months. Just look at this dining room!!!



I'm in LOVE!!! Those flowers, are AMAZING! I'm thinking, they'd be fun in my office. Which is already a fun space. That inspires me every single day. And the crisp white room, WOW! I want a similar looking room. Not for a dining room. Maybe a laundry room. Or guest room.

If you have any ideas, or inspiration, please let me know! Although I'm working on a few different projects, working on my home, is ALWAYS my favorite. Because it's my space. I don't have to think about what someone else likes. Just what I enjoy. Not in a spoiled brat, sort of way. But in the sense, that I won't always have this space. That is just mine. And I want to enjoy it. I want to enjoy my dark purple bedroom, my chandeliers, and all the "girly" touches. ♥

Little Nooks

With all this "Making Our Houses, Homes," I've been spending a lot of time on Pinterest! I can't lie. When I've got some down time, I'm on Pinterest. Searching. I just NEED some inspiration!

My latest obsession, is "Reading Nooks." Mostly because, I spend a GREAT deal of time, reading. Whether for school, or for personal reasons. I've ALWAYS got a book in my hand! Just look at some of these ideas I've found!



It's actually funny, that I found this picture. We have a space like this in our home. It's on our back staircase. Right now, we have a bunch of plants up there. I NEVER thought of putting some comfy bedding and pillows up there. It would make a cozy little nook. For all sorts of things! :)



This tepee just makes me smile! Little K adores it too! And asked me, if I could make us one. Looks like Little K and I, have a few things in common. We both want to put it out in the woods. And just hangout. Sounds like fun to me!



And lastly, this is MY FAVORITE!!! In our new home, we have a little attic overlook. And I just didn't know what to do with it. A little office would be nice. Where I can write. And that little nook, is just perfect! For curling up, with my favorite books.

All these pictures, just make me so HAPPY! I want to get started ASAP! I think part of it is, I HATE to have unfinished projects. These unfinished homes, are stressing me out! This man, provides so much for us! And I want him, to be able to go to any of his properties, and enjoy them!Not walk into a home, with no furniture. Worrying about buying furniture, picking out paint colors, and all that other stuff.

Do you know what I mean? Personally, I've owned my home for a few years now. I purchased it almost 11 years ago. It's nowhere near complete. Heck, there is A LOT of work, that needs to be done. But, I'm OK with it. It's mine. And I'm in no rush. I have a long list of things, I want to do with my home. And I have lots and lots of pennies to save.

But when this man buys a home for us, I want to complete it. For him, and I. Yes, My Love works so hard. And I want to do the same for him. That's why, this blog seems to be currently exploding with decorating ideas. I'm sorry if it's boring anyone. But right now, it's all that consumes my thoughts. And I just need to get these projects completed! ♥

Makeup for a Cause

Not long ago, I found this company on twitter. Actually, they found me. But as I started reading about the company, I was really impressed! Makeup for a worthy cause.



Do you ever find yourself buying makeup, and wondering about making a difference? A few years ago, my eyes were opened up. As I moved closer to the border, I realized just how much violence is in the world. As I entered the medical profession, it became even clearer.

A few years ago, MAC started a controversy with one of their "Limited Edition" lines. They made a donation to the cause. But it wasn't anything like Radiant Cosmetics. Who really are using their company, to make a difference in the world. And in women's lives.



The mission of Radiant Cosmetics, is to make people aware of Human Trafficking. And all the violence that comes along with it. Every Radiant Cosmetics purchase, helps to support this cause. And helps in the fight against Human Trafficking.



This company really touched me. It really hit home for me. I've already purchased some items from Radiant Cosmetics. Not only are they supporting a GREAT cause. But their makeup is pretty amazing too! Give Radiant Cosmetics a try. You'll be helping out women, who don't have a voice. And who NEED our help! ♥

The Butter to My Biscuit

"Ya that happy to see me?" My Guy asks this silly question, as he walks into my dressing room last night. That sly sideways smile of his, makes my heart skip a beat! Maybe 2!!! Don't tell him, but between that smile, and those blue eyes, I just can't help myself!!! I just melt. :)

In all truth, I had just finished that last few lines, of that book, I'd been toting around all week. I read 6 or 7 books, a week. But once in a while, I happen upon a really good book. And it's a constant battle in my head. Do I read it quickly? Too see what's going to happen. Or make it last weeks? To enjoy it longer. This was one of those books. And those last few lines, made it all worth it!

I was happy with the ending of the book. As Manders was setting my hair in rollers. We were getting ready for the show. Cole was setting out the wardrobe for the night. Thinking about the fun show, later in the evening. Truth is, I was in such a GREAT mood!

The BBs are in town. My friends. My very best friends are here. For 2 glorious weeks!!! And here I am, on the moon! So happy. Hanging out with them. And my gorgeous Goddaughters.

Because the BBs are in town, I'm working with them. And the band, is working with this guy. It really is a match made in Heaven!!! We should be working together. But yesterday, it didn't quite happen that way. I found myself running around. Promoting the next 2 weeks events, on every local radio station. And this guy, was hard at work too.

It wasn't until that moment, when he walked in, that we'd finally had time to talk. I was so happy to see him. In all reality, he wasn't the reason for that specific smile. But 99.9% of the time, he's the reason for my smiles. :)

There's just something about this man. He makes my heart skip a beat. My lips can't help themselves, they turn up in a smile. Whenever he's around, I just smile. I crave a sweet kiss, from my Southern Gentleman! I get that spark of electricity, every single time we touch. The kind, that makes me realize, that loves is real.

Years ago, I was in a relationship. One that ended badly. I realized then, what I wanted in a relationship. In those dark moments, it hit me. Like that ball, shattering the window. I knew, I couldn't live like this. I knew, this was not what I wanted, or deserved.

Just days ago, I seen that man. Completely stressed out. Screaming at his poor little boy. Who was running through our local Albertson's. Pulling everything off the shelves. This man, was screaming. Losing it. Right there. In the middle of the cereal aisle.

In that moment, I knew, I'd made the right decision. That man, had once been good with kids. He'd helped me care for my nieces. Made sure we had family meals. That the girls went to school on time. That their tuition to private school was paid. That each one, knew we loved them. He'd had the patients to help with homework. Run kids to school activities. And even volunteered, to go on field trips. Because at the same time, I was working a full time job, going to school (25 credit hours), and starting my new internship at the hospital.

These days, he was fighting, with his sweet son. They couldn't agree on what color of grapes to buy. What cereal would be best. Or what this sweet little boy's favorite juice was...

I saw him. Defeated. This man, that I'd once loved. Had seen a future with. Had been through so much with. The one that I'd allowed myself, to once dream of a future with. It hit me like a ton of bricks. In his moment of need, I could only think..."I dodged a bullet."

Feeling guilty about that thought, I turned the corner. Managed to catch that sweet boy. He remembered me. I'd met him twice before. His daddy, was staying a good distance between us. I got down to his level, "Can we pick out your snacks? You and me together? No running." He nodded yes. And grabbed my hand.

We spent the next 20 minutes, slowly going through the store. Deciding on green grapes, strawberry wafer cookies, apple juice, Fruit Loops, pretzel sticks, string cheese, carrot sticks, pizza bites, and some frozen corn. I returned him to his daddy. Who'd spent the last 20 minutes angry, sitting on a bench. Near the front of the store.

No words were exchanged. Except for that sweet boy, "Tank you. Can you help me ext time too?" It broke me heart. I told him, the next time I seen him in the store, I'd help him too. I can't imagine what is going on there...

I turned around. Headed to pick out some avocados, corn tortillas, and strawberries. My original trip to the store, was supposed to have taken 5 minutes. By the time I was walking to my car, 1 bag in my hand, it had been an hour. And I couldn't help, but feel a sense of relief.

I'm not sure if anyone will understand this. Or how I can explain it. At the time we'd broken up, when everything had just melted before my eyes, I thought that was it. He was the only man that would ever love me. Now, what would I do?

But something about last night, made me realize, God has plans for us. That relationship, made me stronger. I'd had amazing boyfriends before that. Kind, gentle, loving. Something about the demise of this relationship, had shown me, everything I'd never put up with. That I was worth so much more.

Sitting in that chair. Feeling rather unattractive. As my friend put my hair in rollers. I had no makeup on. Sat there in one of this guy's old t-shirts, and a pair of torn sweatpants, I knew God had sent me to him. To this amazing man. To love him. To be loved by him. To share my life with.



It didn't matter what I looked like. That I more than likely, had onion breath. I'd just finished a quick snack. Or that we hadn't seen each other all day. He still makes my heart skip a beat. He still makes me feel beautiful. Loved. Important. And valuable.

When we got home, early this morning, it was the little things. The way he immediately gets out the car, and comes to open the door for me. Pulls me close to him. Kisses me, like I'm all that matters. Reaches for my hand, as we head inside. It's the fact that I don't have to tell him, but he goes to the fridge. Pulls out some water, and fruit. Meets me on the couch. And spends the next 3 hours, catching up on Grey's Anatomy with me.

It's the way, he gently strokes my hair. As I'm falling asleep. The way, he enjoys holding me, when I fall asleep. Not moving, so that I can get a few hours, worth of sleep. And it's the way, he looks me straight in the eye. Holding nothing back.

All those things, that we've gone through before this. They were to prepare us, for this relationship. It allows us to fully embrace it. And appreciate it. We don't take one thing for granted. Not one kiss. One snuggle. Or one moment. We appreciate each and every moment, we have together. However big or small. This, was always God's plan. And now, we just need to help each other. Help each other grow and prosper. Become stronger people together. He really is the butter, to my biscuit. ♥

Lucky Girl

I have to say this, I'm a lucky, lucky girl!!! I have this A-M-A-Z-I-N-G man in my life. That LOVES me much more, than he should. It's no secret. He goes over and above any expectations, that I could ever have. He's my honest to goodness, Prince Charming. Sent straight from God!!!

Sunday, I hopped on a plane. Headed out to visit my Mom. For her birthday, and Mother's Day. Zo and I, also had a credential thing to attend. You know, hours and hours of medical talk. To get that certificate that says, you in fact learned something.



Yesterday evening, we finally got back. If you follow me on Facebook, you could tell, I was happy to be home!!! I missed this man. More than words could say. The band, with their significant others and kiddos, arrived on Monday. And for the next almost 2 weeks, it's going to be so busy! Lots of work and performing, coming up.

So when I walked in the door, I was pleasantly surprised. Not just by the man that I love. But by the amazing things he had done for me. Like cooking a yummy dinner of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and fresh corn. A little fresh strawberry cobbler. With vanilla ice cream. Delish!!!

After a delicious dinner, my Mr. cleaned up the kitchen, as I made my way, to a beautiful bubble bath. With a new book waiting for me. And I met this guy, in a beautifully crisp, cool, and gorgeous white bed. Where we caught up. On the last few days. Spent some good time cuddling. And just enjoying, being back together.

After crazy traveling, chaotic schedules, and life in general, it's nice to come home. To the man I love. And just be. To catch up. Enjoy life together. And embrace the few hours of peace and quiet, before our week gets nuts again!!!

I'm one very lucky woman! One that knows, men like this, are few and far between. I was that awkward girl in school. The one, that people wondered, "How could she be a cheerleader?" "What a dork!" "Poor girl." In lots of ways, that's still me. I'm not perfect. I've never been that "knock out." That is naturally a size 0. With perfect skin, hair and teeth. I'm not cool. I prefer for others to do my hair and makeup. Because, I'm still not confident in it.

In fact, I have lots of those awkward moments. When I wonder, "Why is he with me?" The fact is, this man, could have any woman!!! He's dated models, celebrities, and down right gorgeous women! But the one thing I'm positive about, is My Guy's love for me. He shows me all the time, how important I am, to him. And he's not afraid to tell me either.

This Man, is amazing. He's given up a lot, to be with me. To share these little moments. The ones that make life worth living. I'm so glad that we found each other. I'm so glad, that we're together. In this crazy thing we call life, he makes it worth living! And makes me feel, like I'm finally more than enough. The woman I am, right now, is perfect in his eyes. ♥

Gap Creek

Can I be honest with you? I read a lot! Always have. Probably always will. And by a lot, I mean at least a book a day. 5 newspapers. Sometimes even a magazine. It doesn't hurt, that I'm a fast reader.

I've got a nice collection of books. But to be honest, I take advantage of our local library. I read, request, and love many of their books. And when I find, that I've checked out a book 5+ times, I actually go out and buy it.

But as a kid, my parents spoiled me rotten. With books. Not with toys, clothes, or that sort of thing. But books, they didn't mind. Those school book orders, I'd buy every single book, every single week! Then when the Book Fair rolled into school, I'd get whatever I wanted. I belonged to a ton of Book Clubs. And spent most of my life, reading.

Heck, even trips to the Price Club (now COSTCO) got me a new book. I'd get to pick out 1 book a month, from there. One book that I bought, was Gap Creek. Somehow, it was the one book, that I NEVER read. Why? I have no idea!



While packing last week, I ran across it. Some 12+ years later, I finally picked up Gap Creek. And a plane ride later, I was in LOVE! What a cute book!!! Something right up my alley.

The story is about a young couple. Who struggle in the beginning of their marriage. Living during a tough time. With an elderly man. Who dies, and leaves their lives hanging by a thread. With no money, little food, and an uncertain future. Tragedy marks their first year. But they make it past their 1st anniversary. Stronger, wiser, and more determined. This is definitely a good read! Something that will leave you, with a smile on your face! ♥

If Only...

Wouldn't it be wonderful to win the lottery? There are so many things, I'd do with that money. First off, I'd donate half of it, to a Children's Hospital. Then I'd finish school. Buy my brother and his wife, a new home. Help my parents with their business. Fix my home. Things like that. Maybe just maybe, I'd also like a new car. :)



I suppose, it doesn't hurt to dream. Someone has to win the jackpot! I've gotten my share of the tickets. And have my fingers crossed. You just never know, what might happen. And well, maybe something good will come out of the money I just spent! ♥

Kitchen Inspired

One thing that I didn't mention, this week, My Guy bought a house. About 5 miles, from where my home is. For a lot of reasons, this is a logical move. Mostly because, when we're in the Southwest, nine times out of ten, we stop there. And well, my home, is in much need of some major TLC.

Honestly, I haven't really lived in my home, for a few years. It's just not a friendly environment, with my health issues. So this, is a good move. An unexpected one. But a good one. :)

We signed papers earlier this week. A nice place. On a lot of property. Again, this is beneficial for this man. Who honestly, enjoys his privacy. Being a "public figure," privacy is a tough thing, to get. So the fact that he buys properties, that are a little secluded, isn't a new thing.

Well, now I have 2 houses, to turn into homes. And I'm needing some major inspiration! Honestly, this new home, is something that we'd talked about, for almost 4 years! Yes, it was a long time coming. We'd seen many, many homes. Thought about a lot. And in the end, we bought an old "farm." Now, we're having a new home built on it. But keeping the old one. Maybe one day, we'll update it. So we can have family and friends, stay over too!

Back to my inspiration. I'm not a fan of the "traditional southwest" decor. Not at all! We're more of an "eclectic" couple. We like streamlined, furniture. Something timeless. With lots of fun accessories. Vintage touches.

First up, on our list, is a kitchen. Mostly, because I LOVE to cook. And My Guy, LOVES to eat. I also feel like, this room, will set the "mood" for the rest of the home. Here are a few bits of inspiration...



I really like the "feel" of this space. The openness of the room. All the windows. But I think it's because we're in the "Golden State." And everything here, is so open. In the Southwest, I'm fearing the sun a bit. It can be brutal. So I don't think, this will necessarily work.



Keeping with the "light and airy" feel, I really like this kitchen. But it also seems, a little too "busy and feminine," for our taste. What I do enjoy, is the color palette, the rustic floor, the big windows, open cabinetry, and the "eclectic feel."



This space is so fun! The mix of textures, is what catches my eye here. I like the idea of mixing new, and old furnishings. And the fun rug!



How about this kitchen? Something is just so fun about it! The color, the "eclectic" feel, and the use of vintage pieces. It's just unexpected. As much as I like this space, I just don't think this will work. Because we need some modern appliances, and such.



Honestly, this was the kitchen, that caught our eye. Something really fun! But sophisticated. It's inviting. Yet, a little quirky. And I LOVE the mix of colors. :)

We like that the "bones" of the kitchen, are modern. The cabinetry is classic. And we're leaning towards high grade, stainless steal appliances. But the accessories are fun, whimsical, and "eclectic." That's where the personality of this kitchen, comes from.

My Guy, really LOVES this table and chairs. I'm a HUGE fan of that rug. Both are items, that our grandmas, once owned. Things that we grew up with. :) And honestly, we're going to include them. So I guess, the "hunting" begins. And so do our plans. Oh, this is going to be fun! ♥

Love It!

"I'll never grow old, if I keep on rolling with the flow." ~Unknown

I'm someone, that LOVES quotes. And poetry. I'm ALWAYS looking for inspirational words. And pictures. Anything, that makes my heart and soul, grow more.

That quote, is something, that really touches my soul. It's true. I know this, from my own grandpa. Who is nearly 99 years old, that age is just a number. I've also learned that, from this guy. It's truly one of the reasons, that I love him so much! :)

I'm someone, who has ALWAYS felt like, I was an "Old Soul." But with a kid's heart. Do you understand that? That age never mattered. Well, if you've read about my dating history, you'll definitely see that. I've always dated an older man. Not an old man, but someone older than me. Because it's not about their age, yet about our similarities. Our chemistry. And our relationship.



This picture, reminds me a lot, about this post. About taking that leap. And going after, what I want. And not waiting anymore. Because I'm someone, who seriously over thinks and over plans everything!

I LOVE to be inspired! LOVE IT!!! Do you have a book I should read? Pictures I should look at. Quotes that you love. Shops that you enjoy. Anything inspirational? Please leave me a comment with your inspiration. Or send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. I'd LOVE to see, what inspired you! ♥

29 is the Time to Leap!

"All growth, is a leap in the dark. A spontaneous unpremeditated act, without benefit of experience." ~Henry Miller

Sometimes, I feel like it's time to jump. To just take that flying leap, off of a ledge. To just experience life. I feel like, in many ways, I've held back. I've censored myself. In life. I haven't allowed myself, to fully experience life. To enjoy life.

I'm looking at "Year 29," as being a real "life changer." A point, when my life really does change. For the better. When I grab life, and really let myself grow. To grow in my happiness, soul, and my heart. I want to be a better person.

Much of my life, has been lived, walking a very "fine line." Not really jumping into anything. Not really going 100%, "in over my head" deep. And I want to change that. I want to jump, without over thinking things. I want to be that person, that just runs full force, into life!



This picture, in so many ways, inspires me. So much, that I had it printed, on a canvas. For my office. To remind me, that sometimes, we just need to "grow wings." And take that running leap. To really, go after life.

It's funny! That the older I get, the more chances I want to take. The more I want to just be, truthful to me. I want to expand my world. I want to really chase after my dreams. And make myself happy. Truly happy. Yes, this year, I plan to make it really count. Year 29, is going to be the year, that I allow myself, to be me. ♥