Summer Faves

It's summer and I like making lists so this post features some of my latest faves. They range from yogurt to nail products so enjoy!

Jamberry Nails

Maybe you've heard of them or not. They are a heat-activiated nail wrap that you trim to fit your nail. They come in oodles of fun prints and colors and truly do last upwards of two weeks. I have had 3 different sets on and my first pair lasted 3 weeks. Below is the set I have on now. Check 'em out on their website!

Jo Malone Cologne

Who doesn't like smelling good?! My awesome Mom shared some Jo Malone samples with me and I have enjoyed the fresh summery scents! I don't think I'll be investing in the full-size bottle, but I get bored with scents anyway so a sample is perfect for me. I have tried the Wild Bluebell (below) and the Orange Blossom scent as well. Both are yummy.

Melanie Shankle

If you haven't read Sparkly Green Earrings, you need to. It makes for a quick read because well, you can't put it down in between laughing and/or crying. I just finished her other book The Antelope in the Living Room a couple of weekends ago and it was just delightful!

Soul Keeping

I read this book while on the way to Mexico and it is honestlly one of the more moving, dynamic books I've read on your walk with God. Check it out!

Chia Yogurt

I have been shopping at Sprouts lately and came across this tasty yogurt. I have tried the peach and strawberry- peach is my fave by far. I am definitely a breakfast person and need something good to get me going in the morning. Chia has lots of benefits for your body which I am not qualified to discuss, so check it out on your own. The difference it has made for me is that it really does fill me up and I don't feel hungry by like 10:30.

Leopard tank

Lastly, I picked up this blouse from Walmart of all places at the end of April. I find myself reaching for it a least a couple of times a week. I love the versatility of it- I can wear it to work with the skirt (shown here) or cropped slacks. Or I can wear it with my skinny black jeans. It is split in the back so its fun to wear a bright tank underneath. Anyway, I am all about the pieces that pull double duty- work and out and about.

Stay cool friends!

Fresh Air

Hello all!

Spring is here, or at least I heard someone say that she was and that always brings fresh air and fresh ideas. I've been reading lots (on my 12th new book since January 1st) but now I'm ready to do some writing again!

I got the itch to do some crafting this past weekend, after inspiration via a lovely blog. I found some of Liz Marie's projects on Pinterest after finding her recipe for homemade laundry soap.

This is kind of a bucket list item. I don't have deep personal convictions on wanting to make my own soap. I just want to try it and if I can save a little moola in the process, no complaints here.

I've linked her original projects in the text below.

So making laundry soap is on the to-do list, as well as sprucing up some planters for sweet little succulent plants I think someone is getting me for my birthday ;) Stay tuned for those projects.

I made the cakestand and twine bowl (first and was decently pleased with the results for being a novice crafter. The afternoon did result in burned fingers, a broken bowl and candlestick, but when the hubby carried me out of the kitchen so I wouldn't step on glass, again- can't complain ;) 

Below are the finished projects.

The Practice of Trying New Things

So last June, I set out to try at least one new thing every week for a year and document it.

It's coming up on a year, and I was very faithful to record often several new things each week, up until February.

Yeah I stopped recording, but I haven't stopped trying new things. I passed the test.

I think that's what it was about; I wanted to test myself to make sure I didn't lose myself in a rut. The test may have been unecessary, but I have proved to myself that I do make it a habit of trying new food, changing up my routine, or just flat out doing something DIFFERENT.

I've included a smattering of my list and the editorial that ran in The Vista last summer. Enjoy!

1. Attended the Miss Oklahoma finals

2. Went rockclimbing

3. Put my first newspaper together as editor in chief

4. Spoke at a funeral

5. Started my blog

6. Learned to love bell peppers and hummus

7. Taught in kids' church

8. Attended my first OSU sporting event ;)

9. Tried calamari

10. And...listened to many new songs, watched many new movies, and managed to read a few new books :)

June 2011, The Vista

There are two types of people in this world: those that make lists and those that would be hard pressed to find a pen to start their list. But hey, it’s ok. We need both types to make the world go round.

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a list person. Always have been. The process of jotting down thoughts with those sexy bullet points or numbers draws me in again and again.  Whether it’s a practical to-do list, shopping list or the more ambitious summer goals or to-read list, trust me, I’ve made the list.

One list I’ve started recently and will continue throughout my senior year (maybe longer, who knows?) is each week, I’m going to try and/or do something new. I am looking forward to a year’s worth of new experiences to look over.

How cool will that be?

Here’s why I decided to set out on this quest, one in which I invite you all to join me.

I have found that it is far too easy when you are busy to fall into that proverbial rut. I find myself buried halfway into the semester and it has been weeks if not months since I’ve read a new book or downloaded a new app or certainly tried anything new to eat.

Ugh.

The brain uses challenges and “new things” like fuel to keep it healthy and sharp. I don’t know about you, but I want to keep my brain as in shape and ready for the long haul because I want to be one of those sharp-as-a-tack grandma types.

In writing this editorial, I came across a blog that talked about how neuroscientists are finding that providing the brain with new information actually helps with our time perception. Because new info takes longer to process, it can help with the sensation that the days and months fly out from beneath us.

It’s worth a shot.

Whether it’s as small as listening to songs you’ve never heard or trying new foods or as crazy as traveling to a new country, throw your brain a new (but safe!) curveball. And then write it down.