Highlighting: Shabby Apple

Have you ever come across a company that you just love? There are very few that I can endorse wholeheartedly--but one that I can is Shabby Apple. I adore each and every outfit that I see on that company's website; I drool over the ones that I visualize finding their way into my closet.

While I could talk about the outfits I want, I want to highlight one of the two that I actually do own. It's called "Cider" in their line, "The Berkshires." (One of the coolest things about Shabby Apple are their different lineal names--others include "Roamin Holiday", "South Pacific," and "1943.") I requested the dress to the left for Christmas; it is definitely one of my favorite pieces that I own.

The first time I wore this, the reaction was one that I did not expect. Sadly, in today's society, people do not expect classy attire. I guess dresses have to just be about the sex appeal and that alone. So, when I wore this dress to work, my coworkers made special trips by my desk to see it. (That really threw me for a loop.) Patrons commented on it as well. It fits right into the atmosphere of Boise because it is just the right shade of Bronco orange....trust me, I checked....and it has the coolest twist in the form of a purple zipper.

It's a great fitting dress, it's super comfy. The zipper gave me a the perfect excuse to go buy these shoes at Payless......yet it is versatile with black accessories as well. Suffice it to say, your wardrobe might need this outfit.

Yes, prices are a little bit higher than I would like--consequently why I only get a dress every once in a while--but I love Shabby Apple. I can always count on them to provide something gorgeous.

Maybe you will find the same thing to be true for yourself.

Music and Lyrics--a Movie Review

Movie: Music and Lyrics

Starring: Hugh Grant, Drew Barrymore, Haley Bennett, Matthew Morrison,

Rating: PG-13

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Alex Fletcher (Hugh Grant) is a has been. His claim to fame, as one half of the band PoP!, died out over two decades ago. While his bandmate Colin went on to do bigger and better things, Alex is having trouble keeping his singing gigs at Knott's Berry Farm from cancelling on him. However, Alex has a shot of getting back in the spotlight. Teen sensation, Cora, (Haley Bennett) has asked him to write her next song, "Way Back Into Love." He knows because Cora is the hit thing now, he could have a career NOT on life support.....only he isn't a lyricist.

Enter Sophie Fisher (Drew Barrymore), a woman who is only his house to water the plants. She talks nonstop, comes from a family of health nuts, she has low self esteem--and she is a born lyricist. Alex discovers this by her making up lines to one of his very weak attempts. The two strike up a pairing; they two come up with a great song....and it doesn't hurt that they become attracted to each other in the process.

***************************************************

So I was plesantly surprised with this movie. To quote a dear friend of mine, "Hugh Grant looks like a drowned puppy and he can't really act." I am inclined to agree with her. And I haven't seen Drew Barrymore in anything aside from "Ever After." But the two of them had really great chemistry together. It was a movie that wasn't entirely cookie cutter, although you probably could guess the ending. There was some legitimate conflict, there was a lot of sweetness, and even some heart. I like my romantic comedies to have all of those things.

Sadly, what I do expect romantic comedies to have is some slight content problems. Drives me nuts that they have to add it in, but I am able to skip it. Alex and Sophie do have a physical relationship--we see them passionately kiss and then the next scene has them awakening under the piano....sheets up to shoulders. There is some provacative dancing and skimpy wardrobe thanks to Cora. (Cora's character is a lot like Shakira, or Brittany Spears, or Jennifer Lopez.) In fact, the dancing gets a bit much. However, there is barely any language--just a few instances of God's name in vain. So I guess that is a good thing.

Some cool tidbits--Drew Barrymore and Hugh grant do their own singing. Matthew Morrison (of GLEE fame) is Cora's manager, so it was fun to see him a few scenes. Overall, I did enjoy the film a great deal, though I was reminded that I am neither a composer or a lyricist. =D

A Whiff From the Past

Scents have a way of unlocking memories. The smell of lilacs reminds me of my Nana. We lived in Florida at the time, my aunt was visiting from New Hampshire, and had flown down with some lilacs just for Nana. This was my first experience with those glorious spring flowers; it wasn't until we moved to Idaho that I got to pick bouquets for myself.

Then there is the smell of beer and cow manure. I know, I know, those are not the greatest smells, but they remind me of vacations in Montana. My grandma and grandpa used to raise cows (I really remember Robbie, Chip, and Ernie. ;-D) and Grandpa always loved a beer at dinner. I cannot stand beer; I only manage an occasional sip when I have to cook with it....but it still reminds me of the past.

Today, while making dinner, I was transported back to Deland, Florida, and one of my favorite dishes ever--chicken velvet soup. I remember this restaurants, "Cook's Cafe," that I loved to go to...usually we would go there after a trip to the library and a trip to the bakery for a millet cookies (and I hated those =P). However, I always wanted to enter the restaurant through the side entrance, because of this little old lady who scared me.

She was a Jehovah's Witness, complete with her pamphlets and all. She would make these jokes about stealing me, since I seemed so sweet....it scared the living daylights out of me!! She seemed like the wicked witch and I was always glad to get away from her. Because that also meant I got to go into the restaurant.

Chicken velvet soup was everything you could hope for in a dish. It was thick, creamy and smooth, it was robust with the flavor. With the love I have for cooking, I hope to recreate the actual soup one of these days...but until that day, I can always count on tarragon to take me back to those bygone days...and of a spoonful of goodness I can still taste.

What are the whiffs that you have?

World Collide--a Book Review

Book: Worlds Collide

Author: Alison Strobel
My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Jack Harrington and his wife, Grace, are about to do what most Hollywood people do--they have someone write their biography. These two are just one a few authentically Christian couples in the business, so naturally, it is going to come up while doing the research.

The biographer expects some ranting diatribe, but what she hears instead is a story of struggle, redemption, grace, love...and consequences. It truly is the inspiration that scripts use.

Worlds Collide pleasantly surprised me....because the beginning chapters were really slow going. Written in the first person, the story did not differentiate between characters that well. Yet as the story unfolded, one section was from "Jack's" point of view, the next from "Grace's" and so on. That made everything flow so much better and consequently, the viewer can be drawn into the story much easier.

I did love the Hollywood atmosphere and Alison portrayed it so realisitically. You got a sense of the depravity, the glitz and glamour, everything else that is synonymous with Hollywood today. Grace is extremely likable from the start. And Jack, for some reason, reminds me of George Clooney--only younger. He is the absolute playboy, who does have a radical change. (Now Clooney needs one of those ;-)

The story did make me cry. Actions do have consequences, regardless of becoming a Christian or not. Yes, we are redeemed by the spotless blood of the Lamb, but we do live in a fallen world. One can probably sense what direction the story is about to take--yet that doesn't stop you from shedding a tear or two.

I received this book free from Blogging For Books.

By the Numbers

Does anyone ever feel as I do? That sometimes numbers stick out to your more than exact phrases? I must confess, that is a weird emotion for me--I am never without words. Ask my family and friends; they will testify to this truth.

I have so many different ideas of what I want to talk about, but frankly, life has been so chaotic between work and school...I haven't had much time to think ;-), let alone write. So, I am going to give you a glimpse into the things I have done, or am happy about, via numbers...I don't think it is a boring list at all. Although I could be biased. Not sure on that ;-)

2---days ago I had red highlights put in my hair, which I have never done before. I really like it ;-)

5---cookbooks that I have add to my expanding collection.....for free

8---days until I get to go to my first Bronco game of the season

14---days until CHUCK Season 5 starts

20--days until Bones starts

22---episodes Revenge was picked up for

27---number of college credits I have

30---days until Karen Kingsbury's next book comes out

70---what the temperature was today

253--the page number I am on in my book

It all adds up to one very blessed girl!!!! How has the Lord "knocked your socks off" this week? What are some of the numbers YOU have had swirling around in your head?

Heat Wave--Book Review

Title: Heat Rises

Author: Richard Castle

My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

NYPD Homicide Detective Nikki Heat is not happy...for numerous reasons. It is the hottest weather the city has ever experienced, thus adding aggravation to one of her biggest ones ever. She is stuck with the journalist Jameson Rook accompany her on cases...all in the name of his research. He is a loon some minutes, totally ignorant the next, and yet, Nikki is finding herself being drawn to him with a sort of magnetism she never expected.

Because he is around every minute, Nikki finds it difficult to solve the murder of a real estate tycoon. It could have been a suicide--jumping from your balcony often leads to that conclusion--but evidence is pointing to something different. Is it his trophy wife, who is addicted to men and plastic surgery? Is it something connected with a betting agency? Is it his financial advisor who was fed up with his client? There is so much left to be uncovered....Nikki is thankful for her fellow detectives, because she isn't going to get anything positive from Rook...or so she thinks.

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I'm not going to lie. Once I jumped on the "Castle" bandwagon, it only made sense that I would read the book that is being written in the TV show ;-) If you don't watch "Castle," I know that concept sounds a little confusion; if you have, you know it was an ingenious move on ABC's part to publish a book that plays an integral part in the smash TV series.

Because I do watch the show, and knew a little bit to begin with, I can see the parallels between Nikki and Jameson to their alter egos Kate Beckett and Richard Castle ;-) Every character in "Castle" finds their way into the book--Esposito, Ryan, Lanie, even the captain. The dedication is exactly what it is in the TV show and the acknowledgements feel absolutely legitimate--like ones you would read in "real" books.

It isn't clean. There is a really sensual scene between Rook and Heat (which doesn't happen in the TV show =( ) And there is some minor language. However, it was a fun book to read on numerous levels.

If you are a mystery fan, read it! If you love "Castle"....then definitely read it!

Chicken Corn Chili

The weather is changing. Whether I want it to or not, the jeans will be pulled out more often, my drape-like boleros will get much more use, and I will discover myself making more soups and chilis.

It is a good thing that my family, and myself, enjoy such dinners. There is nothing so homey as a bowl of chili and a hot piece of cornbread.....or a bowl of broccoli cheese soup and a pice of homemade French bread.

You will see a lot of tried and true recipes on here as the autumn season progresses. Like now, I will share this new one I found with you. Click on the link for a delightful recipe!

Chicken Corn Chili

Enjoy!

Announcing....Femnista!

Click to launch the full edition in a new window
Publishing Software from YUDU

It was called "Charity's 'Tude" last time; the set in stone one is now "Femnista". It is, to quote my friend, named as such because it interprets both what the magazine is and what I want for it -- a publication aimed at women, with an emphasis on feminism and femininity. "Ista" is usually attached to things which people are fanatical about -- "fashionista," for example; thus "femnista" means someone who is fanatical about being female/feminine." Knowing her, it is a fabulous name.

So, I give you the latest issue--all about literary men. I haven't gotten a chance to read much yet. (Thing called life, you know ;-) While I did an article on Mr. Darcy, I am more excited to read the articles of my fellow writers. I want to share this fantastic issue with y'all.

Enjoy!

Glimpse into My Movie Tastes

This tag has been going around the blogosphere for a while now, and I thought it was high time I did it myself. It has been tweaked and refined by me. You won't find pictures to the movies, since I am sure you know what they look like anyway =) I will link up to them, though....and I am about to cover a whole bunch of genres.

I am sure that you have seen the majority, if not all, of what I watch. So we can discuss them. And if you haven't, well then, maybe I encourage you to add something new! (And no....that is not a picture of my house ;-)

Family

I first watched The Blind Side with my dad in our "day after Christmas theatre excursion." Then I bought it the following Black Friday. I just love this uplifting movie. Sandra Bullock does an amazing job, it has a lot of heart...and it is about football. How can you go wrong with that?!

Because it isn't completely an animated movie, I will put Enchanted in this category. I don't care how old I am; this is one of my favorite Disney flicks. The songs are so catchy (yes, I have a few on my MP3 player), Amy Adams is adorable, McDreamy...*cough*...I mean Patrick Dempsey is easy on the eyes, and a chipmunk sidekick. You cannot go wrong!

War

Without a doubt, the 1980's miniseries of North and South is my favorite. It is the saga of two West Point graduates, one is from Pennsylvania, one is from South Carolina. The two friends have a friendship twenty years in the growing....only a little event called the Civil War threatens to tear them apart. It is long to watch (at least 16 hours), but I love each and every minute of it.

If I go for a "new" war movie, I would say I really enjoy Valkyrie. I wish that the true story, that of trying to assassinate Hitler, really had gone off according to plan. But it didn't. However, Tom Hanks does a very good job in this film...and I usually don't like the guy,

Fantasy

For some reason, one of the movies I watched on my 21st birthday was in the fantasy genre. It's a genre I don't really watch, but I did like Prince of Persia greatly. Hard to picture a movie based on a video game character holding one's attention....yet it definitely held mine. If you have never watched it before, I will say it improves upon viewing. The first time through is slightly confusing.

But my favorite fantasy movie is one of the most obvious. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a movie that I love to watch for the allegorical aspect. I mean, that scene at the stone table?! How can anyone fail to see the significance?

Romance

Did you know that I love classic romance s? 'Tis true.....and my favorite one is, without a doubt, An Affair to Remember. It is a movie so timeless and beautiful; it never fails to get me crying. Cary Grant makes me swoon, Deborah Kerr looks lovely, it takes place on a cruise ship (which is one of the things on my bucket list). I need to go watch this again.

Then you have the classic romantic comedy. In my mind, that is synonymous with one name: Rock Hudson....and Doris Day....so that means Pillow Talk. This movie is laugh out loud funny, yet so dated (you can tell how the "scandalous" things would be considered commonplace nowadays.) I think that is one of the reasons I find this film so endearing.

In current times, I love When in Rome. Granted, it is cheesy, even bordering on stupid at times, but it takes place in Italy, has Josh Duhamel, and Kristen Bell (who is only an inch taller than I am.) I find it "inspiring" that I will find a guy who looks shorter gals. LOL

The Wedding Planner is a movie that brought my mom and myself times of enjoyment. I think she likes it because of the old movie scenes you see in the background; I like it because it is sweet and almost entirely clean. New romantic comedies can't really say that anymore.

Period Dramas

Raise you hand if you think The King's Speech deserved the Academy Award this past year....I am doing it right along with you. It is an inspiring tale with dynamic acting performances by Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, and Helena Bonham Carter. Even my brother who hates British accents liked this movie.

On the battle of Team Colin or Team Matthew as it relates to Pride and Prejudice, I am firmly on Colin's side. Perhaps it is because he has the benefit of time in his favor, but I just love the length given to Jane Austen's classic...and my personal favorite. I recently had to watch this film for an article. My editor knew it was no hardship at all!

I am caught up in the soap opera-ish tale of Downton Abbey. I was so glad that it won at the Emmys, especially since British productions aren't too popular this side of the pond. The tale is so intriguing, there are a mix of protagonists and antagonists....just so you all know, season 2 is better than season 1 ;-)

Fashion

Meryl Streep gives one heck of a performance in The Devil Wears Prada. She is often compared to Bette Davis and it is a fair comparison (though I have watched more films of the classic actress than her "heir apparent") Emily Blunt gives a breakout appearance, Anne Hathaway is hilariously out of place (or rather her character is)....and the clothes. A lot of them make me drool. Not all, but some.

And then, there is Confessions of a Shopaholic. It is a movie that reminds me to never over spend and go on sprees...who said TV can't teach you things? ;-) Isla Fisher has a good teacher/motivator in Hugh Dancy to try to get her character on the straight and narrow. However, I find the clothes in this even more "drool worthy" than Prada? How is that possible? How can I like something more than Prada? ;-)

Animated

He's on my checks. I encouraged the people at work to have a big children's program honoring his birthday. I intend to have him on baby room walls someday.....you probably guessed it. It's Winnie the Pooh. Oh, how I love that snuggly old bear and all of his Hundred Acre Wood friends. Lest you wonder, I can be Pooh some days and Eeyore others ;-)

Apparently Beauty and the Beast was my favorite Disney movie when I was little. I wore out the tape, although the beast scared me to no end....or so Mom says. Since we no longer have a VCR, it has been a while since I have watched this, but I still know all the songs by heart. I can even launch into them at the most random moments of the day.

This food girl is the first to admit that Ratatouille was not Pixar's best film. And I definitely would faint if a rat named Remmy was cooking my food. But for some reason, I have a place in my heart for this tale. Maybe because the rat borders on being cute and I don't want him to be killed, or maybe it is because for a short period of time I want everyone (even a mouse) to have their dreams....

The cartoon my brother and I love to quote is The Incredibles. Trust me, we do it all the time. We say how Mr. Incredible reminds us a little bit of Dr. James Dobson and how Edna Mode had to have been inspired by the dress designer Edith Head. I could go on and on....I hope this one is never touched with the "sequel hand."

And I am not ashamed to say it: Toy Story 3 made me cry. Actually I bawled when I thought the toys would be burned in the incinerator and then I bawled when Andy gave them away......in the case of sequels, TS3 did what not many do....they got better with each go around.

Musicals

Favorite musical is Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Or at least I think it is ;-) I love the songs, I never get tired of the dance numbers. Forget the fact that I can quote it scenes in advance. LOL

The musical that I can get my brother to watch? Singin' In the Rain. From Jean Hagen's terrible accent, to Donald O'Conner's silly dance number, to Gene Kelly's iconic scene of dancing in the rain.....ah, I love this movie. I mean, really love it.

Good News is a gem I didn't really know up until a year or two ago...Peter Lawford and June Allyson who fall in love at college. He's the jock; she is the shy studious type. It's predictable, yes, but too cute.

Mystery

Charade has all of the appearances of a James Bond like movie. Exotic destinations, multiple identities, a damsel in distress (Audrey Hepburn) and the dashing agent, Cary Grant. I was so glad when I found this on BluRay...it meant I could add it to the collection. First viewing is the best since you don't know the "whodunit," but even with the predictability, you find something to enjoy in this film every time.

I'm a history girl, so it is obvious that I would love National Treasure. Wouldn't it be cool if it were true? If there "were" an invisible treasure map on the back of the Declaration? Okay, it is totally not plausible...and that's why I am so drawn to it. =) Trust me, it isn't because of Nicholas Cage.

Finally....a Sherlock worthy of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. I was hesitant at first, knowing this would make the mysteries set in modern times, with Blackberrys and internet access...but it remains true to the tales I fell in love with after Nancy Drew. I need to be watching them again soon!

TV Series

What Not to Wear--I did that before =)

Chuck is such a great guy. He's loyal to his family, his girlfriend, and his friends. He has a computer programmed into his head and yet he uses it for the benefit of his country. How can you go wrong with a guy like that?

Have I only known about Castle for about five months and watched it for two? I am totally in love with this show. A goofy writer, the female cop with a haunting past, two other policemen who are the right mix of being comedic and serious....and the romantic undertones between said writer and cop?! It is such a fun TV show.

Army Wives makes me bawl every single time. It's so realistic; seeing families go through PTSD, deployments, base closures, adjustments, martial strains....it can be messy and raw with emotion. But there are so many happy moments too.

Chopped brings out the extreme foodie in me. YOU try to come up with a dish using catfish, soba noodles, black garlic, and cherry soda! Trust me, the chefs are given even more weird baskets than this...and they make some amazing creations!

I end with two of my guilty pleasures. The first being Bones. Yes, I like the tale of the forensic anthropologist and the FBI agent. The bodies can be gruesome, a lot of comments come out of left field (if you know what I mean), but I do like the show. I am ready for its return on November 3rd!

Lastly, we have The Office. Yes, I miss Steve Carell. Yes, I think he was robbed of an Emmy. And yes, I still watch the show now that he is gone. It can be messed up (my favorite characters are the two most normal ones), but it does provide me with laughs....and some days, I need that.

So there you have it! A glimpse into my viewing. Since this was meant to be fun, I didn't review these shows...so if you decide to watch them, it is at your own risk ;-)

Wishful Writing

In all of my early childhood innocence, I used to think I could do it all. I was going to be an actress, a singer, a fiction writer who was going to rake in the dough--you name it, I was going to do it. Yet as I got older, one by one, those ideas seemed to fall away.

*An actress would mean doing some things in movies that I wouldn't want to do.....so I ruled out that idea.

*Despite getting solos in kid's choir, and my delusions of being American Idol quality...my mom gently, though not always with subtlety, told me I didn't have that great of a voice....it took a little bit of reflection, but I saw she was right.

*Fiction writing was plagiarism in my hands. I couldn't come with an original idea to save my life and when I did, my writing just felt flat. My dialogue didn't have anything special; my characters couldn't convey the depth that I wanted to. After a lot of tears, and a lot of head shaking at past stories, I discovered that non-fiction writing was the way for me to go. The "fun stuff" had to be left to someone else.

But in the past few weeks, I have been silently wishing I did have the fiction writing talent. Have you ever had a story idea that you just have to write down?! I have--SO MANY OF THEM. Between the story line of a woman inflitrating a mafia family to my romantic comedy to people meeting in an elevator....I have wanted to put them all down. (After all, they are consequently turned into Oscar winning Best Screenplays in my head ;-)

I have to remind myself that the Lord knows best. He didn't have that talent for me. He gave to others; I was just not one of them. I might be upset at that from time to time....do you ever have those moments? I recognize that if we were all blessed with the same gifts, life would be extremely predictable and boring. Maybe a Pulitzer is in my future? LOL

So if any of my readers are writers--good for you! Maybe you can write my ideas for me! =)

Revenge is HIS

Network TV is trying to get viewers to tune into new programming. You know, every spoiler blog site seems to have sidebar advertisements and hit shows air commercial after commercial? Because my list of shows is long and numerous, I have been hesitant to add a new one to my list...but one did seem to catch my eye...and several people mentioned how good it was.

ABC's Revenge is the story of Emily Thorne, a new arrival into The Hamptons. She lived there once before; it was as a young child with her father. But for some mysterious reason, her father was arrested and Emily's life was turned upside down. Or let me put it this way, Amanda Clarke's life was turned upside down...Emily has reinvented her life. Her sole mission in life is to exact revenge on all of those who put her father unjustly in prison.

Emily is willing to go to any lengths to do it. In the pilot episode, we see her subtlety giving hints that a couple is having an affair, knowing that the woman scorned will then destroy the "other woman." We see Emily furtively slipping some vial into a bowl of soup...someone is shot (though I have no idea if she did that) Let's just say that Emily has a lot of problems.

It might sound odd to say that I enjoyed the first episode, but I did. It is supposedly loosely based on The Count of Monte Cristo and it also has that whole crime/mystery vibe that I seem to love. The characters, each and every one of them, is flawed and complex--reminds me of myself ;-) But I do have one BIG issue with the series: revenge being justified.

As a Christian, that is a concept that I cannot endorse. We grow up with the Scripture "vengeance is mine, says the Lord." Mom and Dad tell us "to treat others the way we want to be treated." Revenge and taking a situation into our own hands doesn't do much good......and honestly, it does not bring lasting happiness.

I can understand why the character of Amanda/Emily is doing these actions. When you are wounded and something near to you is taken away, you feel bitter and cynical. You want nothing more than to get it back. Trust me, I have had a few moments where I have been devastated by friends or people who have caused some bad memories in life....could it have ever been taken so far as to make their lives utterly miserable? Perhaps. But I didn't.

Revenge is a 2011 TV show. If it were something from my well loved 1940's, I could predict the outcome--Emily would get her comeuppance. I can't say what is going to happen here and I am intrigued to find out. Between you and me, I am hoping that Emily's sins, and in fact everyone's sins, will indeed find them out. Revenge isn't man's job--Christ will do a better job on Judgment Day.

Climbing Against Competition

Competition always brings a healthy dose of excitement into life. Countries cheer on their athletes every Olympic Games; on shows like "The Amazing Race" or "American Idol" or "Project Runway," everyone has their favorite choice. Feeling the need to succeed has a tendency to drive us to do the very best we can...only for me, I can take competition to a ridiculous level.

Ever since I was little, I have made myself be in competition with others. I had to study, study, study--just so I would be at the the top of my class. I hated when someone younger than myself was close to reaching me in piano ability--I HAD to make sure I was better and always remained further along. You name it, I can turn any normal task into a competitive thing if I am not careful.

I have had flare ups with this attitude this past week. Silently, I have been wrestling with why I do seem to be "second best" and others are at where I want to be (yet I am unable to do so for a vast variety of reasons.) I have struggled when it seems like others are beginning to look like me a little too much. After all, I became who I was because of the Lord...and I feel others should have the same journey, instead of looking to me. It has made me question just how indispensable I really am.

But the Lord reminded me of something. (Can't you tell that He has a way of doing that? ;-)) Just as I do not want to demand perfection of myself anymore, I do not want to become so competitive as to drive people away, or make myself sick with holding to an unattainable standard...that isn't what the Lord has called me to do. I am very special in His sight. If for some reason I feel "inferior," it is in my perception and that alone.

Why do I share all this with you? I want you all to know just how human I feel sometimes, how thankful I am for God's grace to do better....also, I hope maybe my simple words encourage and challenge you. Are you being too competitive in your daily life? ;-)

Emmy Fashion--MY Picks

'Tis that time of year, folks. It is time for me to remark on Hollywood's glitz and glamour, make known which dresses were my favorite....and fantasize about which ones I would wear if given have the chance.

Because I have received much condemnation for such posts in the pasts, I am starting with my disclaimer right off the bat. I do not endorse every TV show these actresses star in. Goodness, I don't watch ninety-five percent of them, so I couldn't even if I wanted to ;-) Nor do I approve of wearing these dresses "off the rack." Every one has different tastes and standards when it comes to modesty. Like I don't have a problem with a one-shouldered gown; some of you might....and that is totally okay! But please don't judge me if I like the style/color of a dress that could have a tad too much cleavage. After all, if it were me, I would have the designer tweak it.

Now that we got *that* out of the way....are you ready for one loaded fashion post?!


You would have to watch "The Office" and know actress Kate Flannery's character to know why I love this look. Usually shlumpy (yes, it is a word I made up) and crass is Kate's alter ego, Meredith...you couldn't tell that in this periwinkle blue gown. I love it! No cleavage, it's one shouldered, she has auburn hair...I cannot find a single thing wrong with it.

Claire Danes is lovely yet again for me (she was in my top 5 list for the Golden Globes this past year.) I think there is a classic air to her that not all actress have. Most wear solid colors on the red carpet, so I am glad that Claire changed it up with an assymetrical pattern. (I wonder if her eye candy husband, AKA Hugh Dancy, was present? If so, that is one gorgeous couple!!)

I am very torn on Dianna Argon's look. I love, love, love the color. Electric blue is highly UNDERused on the red carpet. But I personally think the neckline looks close to choking her...and her hair style ages the "Glee" actress. What a shame...last year, she was definitely the best dressed. Not so this go around.

Maybe breaking up with Derek Jeter has made Minka Kelly want to go for a less sultry vibe. But whatever it is, it is working! I usually hate long sleeves (I personally rare them, even in the winter time), but I like these ones on the Friday Night Light's actress. I love the cascading tiers of lace, the neckline is modest without being frumpy....and it is definitely figure flattering.

Angela Kinsey is also on "The Office." Her character is known for being strait laced and cardigan wearing...which is why I like a tiny bit of skin on her. There is nothing to fault with the look; the colors looks gorgeous....but it also isn't a risk. Which makes me ask the question: would you rather have some risk look boring and yet perfection at the same time--or take a fashion risk and bomb? Sound off!

Maria Menounos could have been my favorite look of the night. Granted, the black is so expected--I would have loved this dress in a different color. Perhaps the electric blue of Dianna's? Anyway, I am a girl who would, if given the one time chance, wear something with a little bit of sparkle to it. This has the sparkle. And her hair is what mine looks like in my dreams! Yep. I still love this dress as much as the first time I saw it.

Naya Riveria (of Glee) does a different take on the black dress. The neckline is very unique; I think that is my favorite thing about it. Does it look to anyone else like it is too long for her? It appears to be dragging on the floor. Also, the hair does age her as well. Clearly, I like hair down =) But still, for someone who plays the mean girl on Fox's show, she doesn't look too mean with that smile.

Kate Winslet always looks amazing. Can I just say that? She doesn't look her age--she knows what looks good on her body type and she wears it to perfection. I wouldn't have had the top going as much "peekaboo", but other that that, nothing should be changed. In fact, if this dress were shorter, and neckline altered, I could see it made into something for work. Okay, did I just make that a misstep? If so, I totally didn't mean it that way =P

Evan Rachel Wood for another black beaded gown....and it was yet another one I loved. I honestly can't tell you what it is--they just look classy to me. I hate the hair, but look at that train!!

My "Is That Her" award goes to Sofia Vergara. Usually she has her cleavage spilling out all over the place. This time, it is more reigned in with the strap. I love the color of the gown, how it shows off her curves without being too sexy, and even how different her hair is. Seriously, that so doesn't look like the "Modern Family" actress. That's a good thing.

Because my LEAST favorites would take up room, I shall link to them. Click on the actresses' name and you will be good to go.

Gwyneth Paltrow--in a word, belly dancer

Heidi Klum--Makeup is flawless, dress is a mess

Christina Hendricks--Same Ole, Same Ole--TOO MUCH CLEAVAGE

The job is now, yours!! What ones did you love? Which dresses did you hate?

The Help--a Book Review

Book: The Help

Written by: Kathryn Stockett

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Mississippi in 1962 was a racially divided place. Jim Crow Laws were in full effect; there were different restaurants for white and colored, different schools, even different bathrooms. As one might imagine, there were also vastly different ways of living. The white women barely lifted a finger, gossiped about city happenings and social functions at fancy dinners.....the same cannot be said about the colored help. They were expected to take care of the children, do the housework, listen to everything they were told, and NOT say anything negative. Period.

Minnie has a problem doing that; she is a maid who has probably worked for every household in Jackson, Mississippi. She just cannot seem to keep her mouth shut. It gets her fired every single time. By lying through her teeth, as the expression goes, she has wrangled a job with Miss Celia, one of the new arrivals in tow; Miss Celia doesn't know her Terrible Secret. She is an odd one, but Minnie is determined to keep this position. Especially her alcoholic husband will probably beat her even more than usual if she loses another one.

Abileen is on the opposite end of the spectrum. She has been the maid/nanny for several homes; each of the children has found a way into her heart. That is saying something, because ever since the death of her son, she doesn't open up as easily. Abileen is definitely one who goes with the flow, but her latest household has come up with the idea of a colored bathroom in the garage. That is taking it rather too far, wouldn't you say?

But for Minnie and Abileen, their lives are about to vastly change when Skeeter Phelan walks into them. Skeeter isn't like most of her white friends; she thinks that there should be some changes in society, changes involving whites and blacks and integration. Desiring to embark on a profitable writing career, Skeeter has come up with an idea.....writing a tell all book about "The Help" as the maids themselves see it. Minnie and Abileen are undeservedly nervous and apprehensive. What about the consequences? This IS 1962, after all. What ensues will change every one's lives forever!

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This New York Time's Bestseller first drew my attention because of the movie. The previews always looked good and then when my Nana said it was, I definitely knew it was. (You see, Nana doesn't watch new movies, so when she likes something, you tend to be shocked and influenced. =) But because I am trying to be a good girl and see movies at the cheap theater, I thought I should do the book first. My aunt was gracious and sent me her copy of the book. Let me tell you, it was a FANTASTIC read.

A good friend of mine says it is very much like "To Kill a Mockingbird" in its undertones. She is right--it did transport me back to Civil Rights Era America, just like Harper Lee's classic does. I found myself instantly in love with the main characters, their stories, their backgrounds and differences. The book does a superb job at making sure each character gets their full attention and due. Not every book is like that.

This book has heroines and definitely a villain or two. Since the majority of you have probably seen the movie (which yes, I will do a review on whenever I can see it =), you know the plot lines. If you haven't seen either, I want you to find the magic for yourself. There are so many layers and complexities, some laughter and a few moments of ire. Is it entirely clean? No--language is a little coarse at times, and there is one really strange scene...you will know it when you get there. However, I wouldn't let those deter you from reading "The Help."

One thing I can guarantee, you will never look at chocolate pie the same way again =)

Jane Eyre (2011)--A Movie Review

Movie: Jane Eyre (2011)

Starring: Matthew Fassbender, Mia Wasikowska, Judy Dench, Jamie Bell,

Rated: PG-13

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Undoubtedly the storyline of Charlotte Bronte's most famous work is known to y'all. It is the story of a young woman, Jane Eyre, (Mia Wasikowska) who has had a rough life. Unloved by her aunt and cousins, sent to Lowood School, the death of her best friend, and the vilification that was aimed at her by others....you name it, Jane has gone through it. But life changes when she accepts a position as governess at Thornfield Hall....and into the presence of Edward Rochester (Michael Fassbender).

The two immediately have a "interesting" relationship. There is much serious banter and conversation between Rochester and Jane. The housekeeper, Mrs. Fairfax (Judy Dench), warns Jane that Rochester is a complex man with many secrets. That is an understatement. There is so much more to every character than meets the eye.

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So, I finally got around to watching this adaptation; I am so glad that I did! Friend after friend has raved about Jane Eyre to me, but it is something one has to see for themselves...if they want to give their honest opinion on it. Instead of doing reviews like I usually do, I am going to give you MY take on things (and I sure love to do that ;-) and then, those who have seen it can share their thoughts with me.

First things first, for the film being in a two hour time slot, it did a pretty decent job sticking to the book. That is something that gets my goat, when movies leave big chunks of the book out. The two previous adaptations I had watched (Orson Welles and Cirian Hinds versions), they always leave out the part when Jane leaves Thornfield Hall and winds up at her distant cousin's house. I like that section, so I am glad to see its inclusion. Was it entirely accurate? No. But hey, beggars can't be choosers. I got scenes at Lowood School and when she left Rochester upon her startling discovery. I haven't gotten that before.

The casting leaves me with nothing to complain about. I really liked Michael Fassbender as Mr. Rochester. I thought he did a tremendous job conveying the many facets of Bronte's hero. He was moody when he needed to be, dark and depressed when he needed to be, and on those rare occasions, happy when he needed to be. Mia Wasikowska is someone I see as one of Hollywood's up and coming actresses. She also did an incredible job as Jane Eyre. She was just the right age and had the depth of feeling that the literary heroine does. (Jane Eyre is one of my favorite literary characters, so I do get picky when it comes to her portrayal.) The two of them as a couple worked.....I would be lying if I said I loved it from the start. You see. May/December romances tend to repulse me the tiniest bit. But I had to remember that the age difference was something that existed between Jane and Rochester into the books. None of the other adaptations had visible age differences, so I did appreciate having it here.

The filming itself was superb. Jane Eyre has a little, dark, gothicness to it and this was presented. Believe it or not, I liked it. The exterior shots were so beautiful. I really want to go to Derbyshire, where this was filmed. (I have ever since my first reading of Pride and Prejudice.) But the thing that I loved best was the music. Dario Marianelli composed the musical score; he is known, among others, for the 2005 Pride and Prejudice. The string instruments were more highlighted this go around, as opposed to the piano, and it was lovely. Haunting at the right parts, romantic at times...I could go listen to it again.

Why in the world this is rated PG-13 is beyond me. There is one lingering moment of a nude painting--top--but that's it. I don't think the content merited the rating to be honest with you. Because that rating could turn some people away...and I do not think that is fair. I think the movie is a beautiful piece of viewing. It is definitely at the top of my Jane Eyre Adaptation list, though I know I have a few more to watch ;-) More importantly, I think it did Miss Bronte proud. It certainly did meet my expectations.

Important Notice

I want to take my readers with me....I am getting ready to change my URL address.

I am leaving behind www.allbecauseofgrace.com It doesn't quite work with my title any more, you know what I mean ;-) I will be moving to www.fromfaithtofootball.blogspot.com

Y'all have that? I will be moving over officially over the weekend, so PLEASE make any necessary changes you need to.

I look forward to seeing you over there!

Loving Leah--a Movie Review

Movie: Loving Leah

Starring: Lauren Ambrose, Adam Kaufman

Rated: NR

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Jake Lever (Adam Kaufman) was a successful cardiologist in Washington D.C. He had a great girlfriend, Carol, and was liked by many. However, he was estranged from his brother, Benjamin. Benjamin had left the family to become an Orthodox Jewish rabbi and Jake had no idea how to deal with it. While Jake wanted to try and make up with Benjamin, he was no given the chance. Benjamin died suddenly and Jake found himself heading to Brooklyn for his funeral.

At the funeral, he meets Leah (Lauren Ambrose), his sister-in-law. The two of them are in for a surprise when Leah and Jake have two options. Because Leah and Benjamin did not have any children, Jake has to do duty by his brother and marry his sister-in-law so as to carry on the family name. Or, if he decides not to do that, he has to disown his brother's very existence. While Jake opts for the latter initially, he cannot follow through with that....so he proposes a platonic marriage of convenience with Leah. Because she wants to get from her family and develop a new life for herself, college and all, she accepts.

It all begins like Jake and Leah set it out to be. Jake continues working at the hospital, trying to make his girlfriend understand what he did, barely coming around. Leah is studying for the SAT, finding a Temple to worhsip at, making challahs...yet living in the same house has a way of bringing out your feelings for the other person. As you might imagine, Jake and Leah begin to fall in love. Whereas Leah was first set up with Benjamin, this is a "marriage" based on love...but Jake has an underlying feeling of guilt. Is he dishonoring his brother by being married to his wife?

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I have discovered that Hallmark Hall of Fame movies are much less cheesy than the ones that air on Hallmark Channel. There is a depth to them that the others lack. While they are predictable and happy, there is some drama involved in getting to the conclusion. Loving Leah is a story of two different cultures, expectations, questions...I like those things being in movies.

Because I do not know much about certain branches of Jewish theology, I don't know if anyone does indeed marry their brother's widow anymore...or if that was something to be found in the Bible. But I do know that the Sabbat, the Hebrew phrases, the mezuzah, those are all entirely accurate. I found the Jewish culture quite fascinating really.

The other thing I loved was that there was no content. Jake never treats Leah wrongly; the two have a very sweet relationship. I think the leads played well off of each other and did a good job acting their roles out. You see, there is nothing I can pick apart in this movie. It is clean, wholesome, family viewing.

Though I do love things that have a few kinks, it is great to see that Hallmark Hall of Fame is still going strong.

Cookbooks are a Girl's Best Friend!

Some girls are positively addicted to chocolate. While I like it, I have to be in the mood. Supposedly diamonds are a girl's best friend. Since I don't own one, I can't give a fair assessment on that truth. The thing that I love, that I can't get enough of, is a cookbook.

Since I have been cooking full time for the family, I seem to be increasing my collection as often as my meager budget will allow. Combined with my mom's cookbooks, one whole shelf in our pantry is dedicated to the recipes of Southern cusine, family favorites, and celebrity chefs alike.

Food is a big part of who I am. In fact, I am considering adding "food" into my blog title. (Friends who know me well suggested it, and you know what, I totally see their side ;-) I get so many people asking me about cookbooks I love, what recipes I enjoy out of them...and I have decided that I should do a blog post about it. Hope it doesn't sound to boring too y'all!

Seriously, even if cooking isn't your thing (and I have several friends who dislike it), I do suggest having this book on hand. How to Break an Egg is not a cookbook. It is a tip and emergency book. Trust me, it has helped me figure out what I can use to substitute buttermilk, or baking powder, or how to make self rising flour. Now, it does not have all the answers, but it has more than enough to hopefully avoid a kitchen disaster. I turn to this book quite frequently. If I had any pride, I wouldn't admit it....but since I don't, I can say that this budding culinary girl needs help =)



I do love the standard cookbooks that have all the recipes (you know, Betty Crocker or Better Homes and Gardens). But for some reason, I seem to check my America's Test Kitchen Family Cookbook before I look in those. I used to watch their show on PBS quite frequently and I loved the helping tips that they used to give. This cookbook has ever recipe I could want. Their baking cookbook has the most amazing chocolate cake recipe a body could ask for ;-)

Taste of Home's annual recipes have been a presence on our shelf for as long as I can remember. Mom seemed to get them every year and I have know "carried on the tradition." I love how homey the recipes are; I love seeing multiple recipes for one particular ingredient. I don't ever encounter "weird" foods in their cookbooks. I might love to try and enhance certain dishes, but homey is definitely my roots.


And then, there is what I love now....the world of celebrity chefs. I am a self proclaimed Food Network junkie. (Maybe there is a Food Network's Anonymous group I need to go to ;-) Paula Deen, Bobby Flay, Guy Fieri, I am on a first named basis with these people. But none more so than Giada De Laurentiis. I just love her and her cooking. I am one quarter Italian, so I love her Italian cooking. I love her personality, the fact that she is petite, and so on. Almost all of her cookbooks line my shelves...and when she made a certain dish for William and Kate when they visited California, I squealed. I make it for my family quite often. (Then when she changed her mind because no one seemed to get it right, I was bummed. She should have had me on speed dial ;-)

So there you go....a little glimpse into my kitchen world. Do you have any go-to cookbooks? Have any of them been in your family for generations? Or are you finding your own interests and taste buds? I would love to hear about them!

Where Were You?

Asleep in bed, I had no idea what was going two thousand miles away. But around seven o'clock in the morning, I was awakened to find the world changed. My eleven year old brain, however, couldn't wrap around what my brother was saying. Planes had crashed into buildings? What did that mean?

Everyone asks the same question around 9/11: "Where were you?" I answer it with vivid memories. I remember heading downstairs, NBC already on, and I watched the same clip of an airplane crashing into the South Tower over and over again. They kept playing it; I didn't have a DVR then. I remember hearing the voices of Matt Lauer, Katie Couric, Tom Brokaw as images and news came through...I remember the nervousness even they had as the Pentagon was attacked and then United 93. Usually, as reporters, you have some indication of what events are going to occur. This time, it was news, horrible news, in action.

Dad called us, we called our Eastern relatives. We didn't have major connections to the events transpiring in New York and D.C. But that didn't ease the pain, the sadness I felt as towers collapsed, cities were shrouded in dust, and many innocent lives were lost. I cried, I wept. I sat in front of the TV for two days straight.

I couldn't have known then in what type of world I would live my teenage years. Words like terrorism, hijacking, credible threats were foreign to me. Now, you grow to expect them. I have to take my shoes off at the airport and yes, I can be guilty of racial profiling. In the midst of pleasure reading, I would read the books 9/11 widows wrote, I would watch the movies...the memories would become all the more acute. With age, one becomes more accustomed to the horrors of the world. 9/11 is my Pearl Harbor Day.

And you know what? I am okay with that. Back in WWII, everyone used to ask where they were on December 7, 1941. In turn, they would have a story to tell. As they told it, you could feel their patriotism, their love for being an American came alive. I want the same to be said of me when I have children and grandchildren.

So....where were you that September Day? How has it affected you?

The Legacy Letters--a Book Review

I could have avoided the pain. I didn't need to remember one of the darkest days of my generation's history. Surely, getting my glasses streaked with tear stains isn't an ideal scenario. But The Legacy Letters was something that I had to read. And I am so glad I did.

The byline reads "messages of life and hope from 9/11's family members." Contained within the pages are 100 letters from family members to their dead loved ones, the mommies and daddies, the sons and daughters who never made it home that Tuesday morning. We get a snippet about the deceased and then, we discover how the family fared since 9/11.

The stories where I seemed to cry the most where the ones written by the kids, the ones who either never knew their parent or were too young to remember. Their heart wrenching statements make you feel their pain. I also wept with the stories of finding love again, knowing that their former spouse obviously brought their new love into their path. You can just sense how bittersweet everything is for them. They have let go of the past, yet it will always be a part of them.

I don't ever want to forget what happened that September day. Indeed, I have been watching a lot of programs and reading a lot of books about the subject. This book made the day all the more poignant for me. If you want something that reminds you of all that was lost, and yet, all that was gained, please pick up this book. I am SO glad I did.....tears and all.

World Trade Center--a Movie Review

Movie: World Trade Center
Starring: Nicholas Cage, Michael Pena, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Maria Bello, William Mapother, Michael Shannon
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Every generation has their day of infamy. My grandparents had Pearl Harbor. My generation had September 11, 2001. Just like with every major event in history, it was a day that began like every other. Yet, by the time the sun set, the world would never be the same again. For Port Authority Police Officers John McLaughlin (Nicholas Cage) and Will Jimeno (Michael Pena), it would shape the story of their lives forever.

Patrolling the bus terminal was the usual norm for these two men, but a low flying airplane quickly caught their attention. Smoke is seen, rumors were being bandied back and forth about what exactly had stuck the World Trade Center. All they knew was that they were being sent in to help evacuate the building and it wasn’t a pretty scene. While in the concourse between the two towers, the South Tower begins to collapse. McLaughlin, being the leader of the group, yells at his men to get into the elevator shaft—one of those men being Jimeno. Initially, McLaughlin, Jimeno, and another officer, Dominick Pezzulo, live through the initial blast—but the shifting of falling debris leaves Will and John the only ones alive. The fight to remain that way consumes the men.

For John’s wife, Donna (Maria Bello) and Will’s wife, Allison, (Maggie Gyllenhaal), they find themselves like the majority of Americans on that day. They remained glued to their TV sets, trying to make sense of what was going on before their eyes. They feared anyone coming to their doors, for they expected news of their loved ones being dead. All they could do is wait and remember. Contrast that with United States Marines Dave Karnes (Michael Shannon) and Jason Thomas (William Mapother)—they can do something. They can go to New York City, to Ground Zero, and help in any way they can. What they don’t know is that these two brave soldiers would be in the “right place at the right time” to help their brothers in arms.

To be honest, I have been loath to watch this movie. Like I am sure everyone alive on September 11th, I remember that day so vividly; I remember how I found out, what my reaction was, just how long I sat in front of the TV—and the day didn’t directly affect me, as it did for countless Americans. Yet because I knew this was based on a true story, and an inspiring one at that, I thought it was a good idea to watch this on the tenth anniversary of that horrific day.

I wasn’t disappointed. Was I happy watching this? No…how could you be remembering the devastation, the loss. Oliver Stone did a fantastic job in directing; he didn’t try to put a political spin on the day. He did an actual portrayal, down to having the characters watch actual news coverage voiced by Tom Brokaw. As that was the network I watched that day, my memories seemed all the more acute. It’s in the scenes of empty New York streets, the wall of missing persons placed by worried loved ones, the falling ash and debris that remind me of what was lost that day.

Because the movie is so raw, the content has to be raw and realistic. Violence is what you would expect. We see the towers come down from inside; we constantly see falling rubble. There isn’t any sexual content. Language is the one issue. The f word is used twice; God’s name in vain, the “s” word and the “d” word make plenty of appearances. And yet, in a way, I accepted it. It seemed very true to life to me.

You know what else was very true for me? It was the scenes in which I remembered anew of why I am that all-American girl. They were the scenes of policemen and fire fighters, from all across the country, helping each other. It was the moment of two strangers comforting each other in the hospital. It was of the cheering that ensued when Will and John were the eighteen and nineteenth men to be removed from Ground Zero—alive. I love this country that I live in, a country in which though the World Trade Center may fall, you cannot bring down the people. Our spirit, our brotherly love that really does exist cannot die, no matter how many planes hit.

Mental Breakthrough?

We all have memories that haunt us. They are memories that become emotional baggage and ones we carry around with us all our lives. They directly and indirectly shape our character and our psychological makeup. I have one huge memory that has done all this.

I'll put it right out there. I am a perfectionist and always have been. For a couple of years, from first grade midway through third grade, I attended a private school. It was statistics driven; it was at least four years advanced of actual grade level. Because I was/am a perfectionist, I demanded straight "A's" from myself and would stop at nothing to achieve them. No, I didn't cheat...I stressed out my body by doing hours and hours of homework. Consequently, I caused myself to throw up every night because of the stress. I didn't have a carefree life of a nine year old--for all I know, I could have been having a different form of anorexia. I have no idea...I just know that my parent's decision to homeschool saved me...in more ways than one.

By no means did my perfectionism go away. However, pressure to perform and be better than my peers was alleviated. My parents taught me that with school, with piano, with anything I did to just do the best I could. Their love for me was not reliant on if I aced a test or mastered every Mozart piece (and trust me, I didn't do either.) But as long as I tried. That was the important thing--trying. And so this mentality has stunk with me...until a little thing called college caused a flare up to arise.

I'm not doing college in the tradition sense. I live at home, I'm CLEP testing out of general education credits, and I do plan on going for a journalism degree. I want to focus on writing and that is something I can do even when I have a home and family of my own someday...but enough about the college journey. That is a whole new story for a whole new post ;-) Regardless, I know am doing a form of school that is more reliant on grades. A certain number matters if I pass or fail. And the last thing I want to do is fail.....

Yet with memories of throwing up fresh in my mind, before I began school, I made a vow to myself. I vowed to not go down that road again. I didn't want to let school run my life. I have to work, so I can't study for hours on end. I want to have a life. I want to be a good daughter, sister, and friend. I still want to cook dinner every night. Goodness, I even want to watch my favorite TV shows. So, I would study to the absolute fullest potential I could for the length of times I could manage....and leave the rest in God's hands. This thought process worked...for a little while.

Scores were coming back wacky. I was studying, studying, studying. My college coach (call her an academic advisor if you will) knew full well how much I was doing...and yet, I wasn't nearly getting the grade I thought I deserved. So, test after test, I watched my "number" show up and I would get discouraged each and every time. Right before my latest test, I had panic attacks at night. I came oh so close to making myself throw up again...my perfectionism was screaming at me. Satan was taunting me with thoughts of being a failure. And I believed it.

It took a hiccup with necessary i.d. for God to bop me upside the head. I got a huge wake up call. I discovered that I had broken my vow. I was letting grades run my life once again. I was reminded that my worth in God's eyes is not dependant on if I get the grade I *think* I deserve or the one that tests my character. What matters is that I do my best and give Him the glory while doing it....remember, that was my vow.

So I took my most recent test, going in without demanding much perfection. (You see, I always have some; it is in my genetics. No lie) And you know what, I passed. Sure, not with the grade I wanted, but passing is passing however you look at it. I have something more too. I have the knowlege that with prayer and people who rally around you, you can beat one of your characters flaws. I prevented from having the same childhood memory come back to haunt me again. I hope I can keep it at bay for all the tests left to come.

Mercy Came Morning--a Book Review

Suppressed emotions and memories have a way of jading our thinking. We are, after all, our past, our present, and our future all wrapped up into one little package. In Mercy Come Morning, Krista Mueller has a lot of baggage bottled up inside of her. All of her successes cannot make up for the pain that she feels--and going to visit her dying, Alzheimer's ridden mother, is about to bring them out into the open. So is seeing her old flame, Dane.

Krista feels as if her mother never loved her; indeed, she never vocalized her emotions. Krista does not understand why her mother, Charlotte, made some of the decisions she did. However, upon encountering a book of Christmas poems with notes written inside, along with a bundle of letters, Krista discovers that there is much more to her mother than meets the eye. And perhaps there is still time for Krista to make peace with her mom, and herself, before Charlotte dies. After all, God uses every moment, up until the time we draw our dying breath, to refine and change us...and Christmas is the season of miracles.

Unlike Krista, I have a very functional relationship with my mother. That being said, I know of several people who are not as blessed. They share a pain much like Krista's. Yes, we do have Christ, but there is, in each one of us, a parent shaped hole in our hearts. The reader travels along with Krista as we hope that she can mend the breach before her mother passes. We all know that when we leave a situation unresolved, we are not right until we fix it--and death makes that near impossible.

Krista is someone easily identified with, but the same can be said with the other two people in her life. There is Dane, the man who always loved her and who never understood why she didn't love him back. And then there was Elena, the pseudo-grandmother whom Krista needed in her life, especially when her own dear grandparents passed. You are so glad to know that they are there for Krista; you know they are going to play an integral part in helping mom and daughter find reconciliation...and they do.

The background for this book is something I loved. The scenery of Taos sounded much more picturesque than I anticipated in my mind. I expected much more of a desert terrain, but instead, Lisa Tawn Bergren really made me picture the works of Georgia O'Keefe, the Modernist painter who loved New Mexico. And the Alzheimer's ward where Charlotte is being cared for at.....I wish more of these existed.

Mercy Come Morning took a chapter or two to get going, but when it did, I read it in a couple of hours. It is a delightfully easy read, and yet, it still manages to be profound. I dare you not to get a little teary eyed at the end. I did....and when I read this again (for I will, perhaps around Christmas time), I bet it will be the same.

I received this book free thru WaterbrookMultnomah in exchange for an honest opinion.

It's Football Time, Baby!

The long wait is over; my lack of femininity is about to come through =) Because tomorrow, my favorite sport in the world begins a new season--COLLEGE FOOTBALL! It is so exhilarating for me to watch, though some games, I can feel like a heart attack is coming on.

I know. I know. Most girls aren't into sports. And if they are, they just sit demurely and watch them, not understanding what is going on. I am the exact opposite. Every game day, I deck myself out in blue and orange (trust me, I wear my Boise State Bronco shirt), sit down in front of the TV....and I do not move until the game is over. Ask my friends: if they call, they know I won't pick up unless it is halftime or the game clock reads 0:00. And when that game is on, I get excited. I jump up and yell. I scream. I get angry at the referee. Yep, I bet you can't picture me doing it, but trust me....I can.

Living in a college town just adds to the ambiance and spirit. I have gotten to go to several games and let me tell you, there is nothing like being in a stadium, surrounded by thousands of people "united in a common cause." I hope I get a chance to go this year--and sit in this stadium.

Yes. The turf is blue =)It's lovingly called "the smurf turf" and if for some reason, BSU decided to get rid of it (even though it is our trademark), the entire city would rise in revolt. I kid you not.

So, I am looking forward to the Broncos taking on the Georgia Bulldogs tomorrow. I have to work, but thank goodness, the game is an evening one. Every TV in the Treasure Valley will be tuned in....just as mine will.

Anyone else get as excited about sports? Any sports? Or is it just me?