Things I Love: Cheesecake

Have I ever mentioned I love cheesecake?

Oh, just a few hundred times?  Well then, let me remind you, I LOVE CHEESECAKE.

Seriously, love it.  Like if I had to pick between my iPhone and cheesecake I might need counseling.

So when I had surgery a few weeks ago Sarah from Frontier Kitchen decided to whip me up a cheesecake to help make me feel better.

(At this point I should totally point out that I have the BEST friends ever. I mean, some people bring you icky tater-tot casseroles when you are out of commission but you know what my friends do?  They take care of my kids, clean my house, make sure I'm on the right meds and BRING ME CHEESECAKE!).

Anyhow, Sarah whipped up this lemon-blueberry dream.  She literally brought me the whole cheesecake.  And I ate it.  Like all of it.  It was that good.  In fact, I'm considering another surgery just so she'll take pity on me and make me another one.

Because I love cheesecake that much. 

Now, which organs are optional?

Yep, this is literally MY cheesecake.  Isn't it amazing. So drool worthy.

Want the recipe?  Click here  <----yep, click that link and you'll go right to Frontier Kitchen and this recipe.  One more fun tidbit, in this recipe post when Sarah says she was at a casual 4th of July party, she was at my house :)

What I Think About: Being Lost in Faith

There is nothing like calves and quads burning up a steep hill on a path that has long since surrendered to wildflowers and fallen trees to remind me how small I am and how great He is.

Sitting at the base of some granite wall God placed here in His time as a monument of beauty and glory I reflect on the path I've just run.

It started easily--downhill in trees that blocked me from the ever-present Wyoming wind. The path was obvious as I followed it up a leisurely, unobstructed hill. As I descended again the path grew smaller and windier.  The small bits of rock covering the hill made it dangerous to run too quickly down the hill. The path was covered with flowering bushes that tickled my legs--a warning to slow down. This led to a dark place.

Under looming rock formations, in the black shade of hovering pines I was chilled.  Downed trees covered the path. I went left and could not pass. Right yet I could not pass. I had to slow and climb over. Because some obstacles we have to face head on and this never seems more true than we are in dark places.

On the other side of the obstacle I was rewarded with sunlight, a breeze, and that obvious path that beckoned me silently, "this way".

And I followed the path because I knew it was the way. I trusted, blindly.  I didn't question; I followed and I was at peace with that choice.

But paths never stay the same--do they?

I was running.  Lost in the beauty of blue skies and quaking aspen leaves.  Suddenly I realized I was not on a path. I was just running at the base of a huge rock formation. No map to show me the way; no friend to guide me. I was alone. Without direction--without a path to follow. 

I contemplated going back--to find that trail in the sun where it was easier.  But I knew in my heart that I could never go back; I could only go forward.

So I slowed my pace and went on looking for clues to lead me to the finish line. I saw nothing but pressed on. Slowly. Methodically. Timidly.

And then I saw it--on the right.

A grassy area covered with flowers and trees stumps. When I looked closely I noticed that some of that grass lay to one side--as though it had been walked on.  Not by many--but by someone.  And perhaps the one who made this path made it for me.  Hesitantly I stepped once. Twice. It was hard to discern this path. I had to pay attention--I had to work at it. But I followed this barely-there, new territory, trust me and follow path.

I followed without knowing where I was going. Without knowing if it was the right way. Without having a reason or a purpose. I followed this rarely used path hoping it was the one for me.

It led me through muddy waters. Over tress and over rocks. I stumbled thrice. But I kept jogging ever hopeful--refusing to listen to those sneaky thoughts that I ought to go back because this was the wrong way.  I ran on.

Soon enough the path widened and the growth became less and less. The wind picked up carrying voices. Ahead climbers were ascending a climb, comfortably trusting their ropes and harnesses.

And there was the path. Wide. Well traveled. Obvious.

Here it hits me that this path was here the whole time. I'd gotten off it at one turn or another. Distracted, prideful--perhaps both--I followed my own way.  Yet He was there. Making a way through the wilderness.  Stepping into those grasses to guide me. Whispering encouragement on the wings of a passing butterfly. Offering hope in the cooling breeze.

These paths--they guide us and lead us. They aren't easy. Paths don't mean that the run won't leave me sore, tired, or breathless. They don't mean you won't get lost or take your own way. They aren't always discernible. Sometimes it's hard to even trust that paths are there because it doesn't feel like they are there.

But there is always a Way.

And so it goes with faith.

Days of Play: 3 Simple Steps {That's All You Need}

Any Special Agent Oso fans out there?

No?

Well, I don't blame you.  That bear drives me nuts.  But my kids sure like him.

Anyhow not too long ago Oso gave three simple steps for making fruit pops.

1.  Get an ice cube tray
2.  Put a sliced banana in each tray and spear it through with a toothpick (He didn't think that all the way through.  In my humble mom-pinion, toddlers shouldn't have toothpicks.  But I might be over-protective).
3.  Pour Orange Juice into each little ice cube/banana slot and freeze.

Wa-la--a healthy fruit pop.

Make those today.  It's easy enough to do with kids and fast enough to get it done without regretting your decision to cook with your kids :)

If you feel more adventurous, how about these?

Yep, that photo is from Our Best Bites and, like always, they have a huge assortment of pudding pops you can make with your kids.  They might take more than three steps but they'll taste delicious.  And if you hurry over there, you might get the stupid "three special steps, that's all you need" song out of your head (if you are lucky.)

Music Monday: Band of Horses

So a few weeks ago we went to Sioux Falls to attend an event wherein my brother-in-law gave me another sister. YAY for Megan and Josh (well, mostly for Megan because a girl with one fun-loving sister is lucky; two are a blessing.  You can begin being jealous of me .... NOW!).

Anyhow, for their wedding dance, Josh and Megan picked the song "The Funeral" by Band of Horses.

I know, right?

You've gotta be big-fat confident in your marriage if you're gonna start it with a song called "The Funeral."

Despite the name (and the lyrics) this song is simply B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L.

Give it a listen and then you'll understand why it is their special song.  And why it's on my iPod.  And why it should be on yours.

Things I Love: I {Heart} Radio

Here's a shocking truth.

I hate the radio.

Really there is never anything on I like.  It's always the same lame songs over and over and over.  I've had it up to HERE (imagine me with my arm over my head) with Nickleback, Taylor Swift, and Lady Gaga!  Blech.

So as a rule of thumb I don't listen to the radio,

Unless I'm in Denver and then I can listen to 93.3

People, this is the I Ching of radio stations. All modern alternative rock all the time (except for 11 pm when they play electronic/techno music.  I skip that).

I kept trying to convince Matt that we need to move to Denver so I can have a good radio station. But apparently that's not a good idea since he'd have to get a new job and we'd have to sell our house and make new friends and stuff.  Apparently his priorities are mixed up :)

Anyhow, one day I was stalking the 93.3 playlists--you know, to torture myself--and I found a play online button.  WHAT?

I clicked, it took me to an I HEART RADIO app which I promptly downloaded.  Now every now and then this app will crash but overall, I love it.  Lovey, love, love-love-LOVE it!  I can listen to 93.3 anytime, anywhere.

Thank you I Heart Radio.  I heart you!

What I Think About: Secret Broken Hearts

There's nothing worse than a broken heart.

That's what I used to think.  But now I know better.  The truth is, there is nothing worse than a secret broken heart.

Secret.  As in, something you've never told anyone.  A wish.  A dream.  A barely whispered prayer.

I've had this secret "other" life that I dreamed I would live.  And yesterday, though I knew it was coming for a long time, if finally hit me.  I'm never gonna have that life.  And I just fell apart.

It isn't that my life isn't heavenly.  I mean, it's divine.  I am in a passionate and fulfilling marriage.  I have darling children.  I have the love and support of so many friends.  But one thing is off.  One thing will never be right. And I'm broken hearted about it.  What's worse is I can't explain more than this. It would ruin how sacred this dream was to me.

So I have a secret broken heart.  And I've written it a poem.

There's an edge in my attitude and my eyes don't sparkle as much, it seems.
My stature has lost its confidence; my laughter it's familiar ring.

How do you let go when memories that made you laugh, now make you cry.
And how do you mourn a dream of what you hoped would be
when it escapes you like a sigh?

I'm tired of saying I'm fine.
I'm more tired of pretending to be.
I didn't know that it'd be like this from the start.
Didn't know it would kill me to have a secret broken heart.

But the words you wrote, you spoke, you sang, you whispered ...
They haunt me.  They won't leave me alone.
And I don't want them to leave alone.

I want it not to hurt.
I want it to be okay.
I want to go back to make you see--to make you stay.

Stay with me.  How you are.
Because I'm fine with imperfection
It makes you perfect for me.

But how do I make you see when who you are is nothing but a memory,
a dream, an illusion--to me.

I'm so damn tired of saying I'm fine--more so of pretending to be.

I'm not alright.
I am broken.

And my secret broken heart is might kill me.

What do you do, when dreams don't come true?
When they divide you? When they break you?

Days of Play: Water Fight!

It is officially summer here (sigh)

Since I live in a state that only gets summer for about forty days I like to really whoop it up when the weather allows (Read: My kids have to make me come inside for dinner and force me to take a bath. Sad but true).

I'm all about setting up the pool, running through the sprinkler, and sliding headfirst down the dodgy slip-n-slide I got for $1 at a garage sale.

Sometimes I even let my kids play.

Anyhow, I was reading A Little Tipsy the other day and there was a guest blog that gave instructions to make sponge bombs. HELLO?  Count me in!

Basically these are little bombs of delightful wet fun.  They soak in a ton of water so when you toss it to someone they get soaked! YAY!

So I suggest that you follow THIS link to get directions to make a sponge bomb.  And then have a water fight or play hot potato with your kids.

Enjoy!

Music Monday: The Spill Canvas

So this band is from Sioux Falls, SD--where my brother and sister in law live--and they are pretty much amazing.

The bad news: they've "kinda" broken up. Okay, they are on "hiatus."
The good news: Twitter keeps posting rumors that The Spill Canvas might be putting a new album together!  Yay (if it happens!).

My two fave songs from The Spill Canvas are:

All Over You



Our Song (Take note Taylor Swift--this song is sooo much better!)



Rush to ITunes and get two new songs. Right now. I'll wait!

Happy 4th of July!

Fashion Friday: It Can't Be July!

Oh my stars--it can't be July.  Where did June go?

Well, whether I'm ready for the quintessential summer holiday or not, it's nearly here.  If you like to rock out some red, white, blue for the 4th, please be inspired!

Shorts by Forever 21
Flats by Mossimo

Tanks by Mossimo
Flats by Mossimo

Sleeveless Tops by Gap
Sandals by Forever 21

Day Dresses by Forever 21
Sandals by Forever 21

Things I Love: This Song

And I hope it gets stuck in your head.  Welcome to the Flobots--a hip hop band from Denver.  I love them.

Happy Thursday!

What I Think About: Having People Who are There for You

Yesterday I mentioned that I had to have surgery.  It went well (I think.  I'm actually writing this at 1:30 am on Tuesday morning so I'm just assuming that the surgery went well.  If I died I've left Matt with directions to delete this blog.  If you're reading it, I'm still kicking.  Wow.  I must not blog so late at night ...).

Anyhoo--I found out last week that I was going to have surgery and instantly morphed into this wild woman with a pit in my stomach.  I was nervous as a turkey at Thanksgiving!  Really, I could hardly be contained by my skin.

So I did what I could do.  I called my friends and forced them to meet me for play dates.  And then I invited myself over to their houses and made them unleash me on toys that needed organized.  As much as possible, I let my friends help me forget what was coming or the fears in my heart. 

When I told my sister about the surgery, she decided to pack up her kids and drive to my house so she could care for me, the kids, the house, and the hubs while I'm out of commission.

And it dawned on me today as my friend Kim called and prayed for me, that I have a hard time asking for help.  Really, I love to help others but don't love to receive it.  It's a pride thing.  But right now I need help.  And I have it.

What I think is that I'm blessed to have people who are there for me. 

Thank you to Randean, Beth, Sarah, Krista, and Kim for being there for me!

Days of Play: Indoor Camping

Know what I'm doing today?  I'm not playing with my kids.  I'm getting ready for surgery.  Yuck.

But if you want to play with your kids (which I totally encourage!), I strongly encourage you to check out my friend Jenny's indoor camping date with her children.

Great idea--great pictures.

Get s'mores fixin's and have a blast with your campfire cuties!

Oh ya, click here for all the details!

Music Monday: A Fine Frenzy

Since I have limited access to a computer that allows me to blog (get well soon, Mac!), I've decided to keep going with Monday posts introducing you to some lesser-known musical artists that are actually on my Ipod.

A Fine Frenzy is a delightful artist who took her "name" from a line in a Midsummer's Night Dream.  That fact alone has me hooked!

I love her easy, breezy, emotional music.  Take a listen.  You'll love her.  I promise.

This song is Almost Lover--one of her most popular!

Date Night {IN}--The Yogurt Edition

So this is gonna seem totally weird but we love yogurt.  So we did a yogurt date.  If you don't like yogurt feel free to substitute the yogurt with chocolate syrup, pudding, honey ---whatever floats your boat.

What you need:

• Some time sans kiddos
• yogurt
• paper scraps with one letter A-Z written on the scrap
• hat to put scraps in
• dice

What to do:

1. On scraps of paper, write one letter and then put the scraps of paper into a hat.
2. Set the scene--we made a comfy little pallet on the floor in front of the fire, turned on the Airborne Toxic Event station on Pandora, and lit candles.
3. Get into as little clothing as you are comfortable with.
4. So to play, take turns drawing a letter out of the hat.  Let's say you pull out "T".  You have to find a part on your spouse's body that starts with that letter (tummy, tongue, toes, tibia...), put some yogurt on it, and lick it off.  Here's the catch, you can use silly names or body parts (like funny bone for F) or secret names (I could give you an example but then I'd have to kill you).  You want to think of the most difficult name possible because your spouse has to guess why you chose that location (which is why I'd pick tibia over tummy for T).  If he guesses wrong, roll the dice and he owes you that many minutes worth of back rub, foot rub, hair plays, etc.  
5. Finish the date with a hot shower because you'll be sticky :)

Things I Love: Spicy

Yes.  I love spicy food.  But that's not what I'm talking about here.

What I love is the word SPICY. 

Remember the girl from Mean Girls who wants to make the word "fetch" popular?  Well, I've been on a mission to make spicy popular.  And it's catching on.

At first I started saying spicy in place of the word hot--which seems obvious.  For example, "It's spicy out today" or "My husband is so spicy!"

Then I decided that spicy could also substitute for sassiness, snarkiness, wit, etc.  "Wow, you are being spicy!" or "Love the spicy comment."

Of course, I use spicy to help tone down a contentious situation.  For example, in class two students were rigorously debating and to help bring calm back into the classroom, I said, "This is a spicy conversations."

Turns out lots of people love my word.  I've caught friends posting it in Facebook (my daughter is so spicy today!), students writing it in e-mails, Matt using it when he likes how I dress...  It's catching on!  YAY!

I love spicy!  It's so fetch!

Days of Play: Rainy Day Scavenger Hunt

We have a chance of rain every day this week.  Yes, I'm doing a happy dance.  Sorry, I'm that girl who prefers 60 and rain to 80s with sun. 

If you are stuck inside on a rainy day it can be hard to entertain little ones.  At our house, a scavenger hunt always goes a long way.  What I like is how quickly I can whip up a hunt.  No need for maps or lists--simply pick an attribute of an item, give kids a grocery sack, set a timer, and send them off into the house to gather anything that meets the criteria.

For example, have kids find things that are: blue (or any other color), round (or any other shape), small (or any other size), soft (or another texture), etc.  Feel free to give younger children an easier task (color) and older children a more difficult task (90' triangles) to make this activity work for all kids in the house.

When time is up, empty bags and go through what your kiddos found.  Then put everything back TOGETHER and have some special "treasure" as a reward for a hunt well done.

Some Monday Music

So my Mac is still an absolute mess.  One of Matt's co-workers loaned me his MacBook Pro so I can work on my competency exam questions.  I figure I might as well write a blog or two since I have it.

I have a pretty eclectic taste in music and people often want to know what I'm listening to. So I'm gonna do a few posts on music I love, some lesser-known artists, etc.

First up--The Airborne Toxic Event.  This band is really gaining in popularity. I've been in musical love with them for just over a year.  I went to one of their concerts a week ago and they actually sound better LIVE--which like, never happens.  Anyhoo, give this a listen. This video is of their most recent hit, Changing.

Things I Love: Thunder Storms

Tonight the sky turned dark and pink. The sun was setting and clouds rolled in. Then the show started.

Accompanied by a symphony of wind and the steady rumble of heavenly drums, light danced across the sky in graceful yet frenzied movement.

Left. Right. Alone. In pairs. The light streaked in slim lines at times while illuminating whole cloud banks other times.

Rain fell gently renewing the dry ground and filling the earth with perhaps the most delicious and intoxicating smell ever.

I stood staring at the beauty from the sliding glass door in my kitchen and I was, for once, without words.

There is, perhaps, nothing lovelier than a summer thunder storm.

What I Think About: My Sick Mac

So my boot up software on Mac is down ... Again.

Last time this happened I had 20 papers to read and final grades to post.

Now I have my first answer to my first competency question due on June 30 and I haven't typed a single thing! And I'm doing research (and writing this blog) on my phone! Ahhhh!

I know it'll all work out and that I'll rally and get my paper done but right now I'm a bit stressed. Or a lot stressed. Whatever!

What I think about my sick Mac is me no likey! This is actually worse than a man cold (okay, maybe I'm being dramatic. Still.)

Get well soon, Mac!

The bus, the bus, the bus is on fire

Last week I spent time at Quaker Ridge in Colorado for WYLDlife camp. Ropes courses, horseback riding, shaving cream and flour fights, human bowling, singing, swimming ... I had about as much fun as you can possibly have in one week.

There was only one small hiccup in the whole week (which is pretty darn good).

Our bus burned to the ground.

Yep--you read that correctly. Last Monday our tour bus got a flat which started the bus on fire. We had to get 50 kids/leaders and their bags off the bus. Yours truely was the baggage hero who literally crawled under the bus(remember, it's on fire) to remove all the bags. I tossed them out and the kids--working as an amazing team--formed an assembly line of sorts to pass the bags down the highway to safety.

We got the bags out and ran down the highway right about the time tires and gas tanks started exploding. Aside from a scraped knee (and sore throats/lungs from the smoke) there were no injuries!

Sadly we had to wait for about 3 hours for another bus to come get us but we did eventually get to camp. Some people might call this a tragedy but I love that this experience brought us together as a group. It solidified our trust in one another. It reminded me that my God is mighty to save!