Cyber Diary

A lot of the emails we get on a daily basis are what we categorize as, "junk email".  Most of them are from our favorite shops and they contain the newest sale options or thrifty bargains. Unless a birthday is coming up or I just realized I have an abundance of money lying around (because that happens so often), I delete them.  

The other emails we receive are the professional emails...you know, the ones with to-do lists, outstanding projects, the refined budget, or upcoming events.  These, although important, aren't the ones we look forward to.  They aren't the ones I look forward to.

I like the ones from the people in my life; my family and friends.  These emails hold a sense of value that those other correspondents do not.  I love looking back over emails and see how my relationships have evolved.

What is your favorite email?  Maybe it’s a message from your brother, telling you how your niece talked about you during her Show-and-Tell session.  Or perhaps you want to save the email from your boss in which he praises your insight and persistence in finishing a particularly difficult project.  And of course, you’ll want to save the sweet flirty emails from your crush or love notes from your significant other.  

Ruby Red Slippers

One of my favorite movies is The Wizard of Oz.  I can remember sitting down and watching what seemed like a really old movie.  The black and white soon transformed into a magical world of color, munchgins, high hopes, and a long journey.  Dorothy was a character that resembled innocence and determination.  Her braids and basket shouted sweet while her new ruby red slippers spoke of a passionate longing for familiarity and family.  Those shoes not only dazzeled the yellow brick road, but it remains an iconic symbol of good ole home.  It makes me think.  She simply had to put on ruby red slippers and click her heels three times to find out what she loved best: home.  I had a pair of shoes that did this for me.

Granted, these shoes were not of a brilliant color and they definitely did not shine; more importantly, they did not look like something a girl would wear.  Rather, my shoes were dull and brown that laced up my ankles, as these were boots.  Bulky, cheap, pleather boots.  Aside from the vast difference in appearance, these shoes offered the same comfort.  After spending minutes putting them on, I wouldn't click them together.  Not even close.  They were not my secret weapon in getting me to what I loved best, but I was offered the safety that a home would offer.  

My dad wore boots a lot.  Mainly because he was a solider in the army.  His boots were symbolic of his bravery and hardship for a country he called home. Mine did not carry that much weight and burden.  But I looked to my boots the way my dad might have looked at his; the way Dorothy eventually looked at hers.  They reminded me of my dad's courage and it gave me courage.  I felt like I could do anything.  I thought, 'with these boots, I can climb a mountain!'  or 'with these boots, I can travel through any kinds of weather!'.  I don't know where those boots are now, but I can remember wanting to wear them all the time.  Now my 'go-to-shoe' is a pair of tennis shoes...

What are your favorite shoes?  When did you get them?  Why do you love them so much?  Write about those shoes that made you happy and paste a picture of you sporting those kicks.  

The Ugly Stuff

Sometimes happiness can come from the ugliest things.  I'm taking this approach with the latest news feeds from the 2012 Presidential Election.  I wasn't like the obscene dancers on TV, I didn't wiggle and jiggle when the President was re-elected.  It might take me a few days to adjust to the ugly... next four years. But, happiness can stem from this.  God is in control.  He has a plan and it is sovereign.  So, while I adjust I might just create a little ugly of my own.  I'm going to be a creature maker.

I'm going to invite a few friends over, crack open a bottle of wine, and I'm going to craft the ugliest monster I can possibly fashion.  It will help with the adjusting.  I will give this little monster a ridiculously sweet name, a history, a life story.  I will love this monster.

Confused yet?  Use the Very Easy Creature Recipe.

Here's what you'll need:  2 sheets of felt (cheap...fancy...homemade...however you feelt), embroidery thread in a complimentary color, scissors, a marker, a file folder (or cardboard), buttons, bits of yarn, scrap fabric, beads, and other accessories.

Start by drawing a simple shape for your creature on the file folder/cardboard.  If you’re a novice crafter, stick to a simple shape for your monster like a square or a rectangle.  If you’re a comfortable crafter, you can choose a more adventurous shape.  Use a copier to blow up these templates 200% (or any size that will work with your felt).

Cut out your template.  Trace it on the felt twice.

You now have the front and back of your creature cut out of the felt.  Sweet!  Now, you need to sew the two halves together.  Put the two pieces on top of each other.  Make sure that the “ugly sides” – the side of the felt with the marker trace line – are facing out.

Sew the two sides together.  If you’re an excellent seamstress, you’ll make tiny perfect stitches.  If you’re like me, you’ll do the best you can.  Be sure to leave a 1-2 inch hole unsewn.

Flip your creature right-side out through the unsewn hole.  Fill the creature with stuffing.  Chopsticks are handy if you’re stuffing long and skinny arms or legs or other bits.

Sew the stuffing hole closed.

Make a face using buttons, markers, embroidery thread, and anything else you have on hand.

Lilo had the right idea...

...like I said, I'm adjusting.

Language Guru

While I was in Guatemala, I realized just how vital it is to know at least the basics in other languages.  It was hard to communicate.  I found myself doing a lot of hand gestures...pointing to colors or buildings.  When it came to actually having to use Spanish 101, my vocabulary was slim.  While I was there I picked up a few nice sayings, "Hermosa bailarina" (beautiful dancer) or "Dios es amor" (God is love).  So in all this effort to communicate I thought about how nice it would be to learn to compliment someone in another language.  It seemed to go a lot farther in Guatemala than "Hola" (hello).

Here are a few of my favorites!!

Spanish     Me ecanta el sonido de su risa... I love the sound of your laugh.

 

French     Tant que vous etes la, je ne m'inquiete pas ou nous allons... as long

               as you're there, I don't care where we go.

 

Dutch     Je maakt me een beter mens...  You make me a better person.

 

Filipilino     Mayroon kang maraming klase...  You have a lot of class.

 

Latin     Qui habitu procedit ut puteum cum tone de corio tuo...  That dress goes so well with the tone of your skin.

 

Learn how to compliment people in another language, but make sure the compliments are unique and quirky and slightly crazy. 

Cheering for America: A small testament for a big country

Election day is closing in for 2012 and already it has been an eventful year for the red, white, and blue.  The olympics kicked up the dirt in patriotism and all Americans threw up those #1 foam fingers and unraveled their pom-poms.  Mitt Romney's slogan, whether you are with or against him, is something we should all have as bumper stickers: "Believe in America".

We are a people, a nation.  Shouldn't we essentially be on the same team?  Whether in swimming, racing, or dancing, aren't we all excited for America to be the best it can be?  Politics always has my head spinning.  Aside from the nominations, the beliefs, and disagreements, I can't wrap my mind around it.  Sometimes it seems so simple... can't we all just get a long?  

At the end of the day I'm cheering for America.  She is my team.  At this next event, I will not be wearing a bold red or a diligent blue but a combination of the three colors that resemble a strip and a star.

Let your inner cheerleader out by attending an event where you can cheer people on – a marathon, sports game, or a parade will do the trick.  Cheer with abandon and let yourself become a super fan!  Write about the experience in the comment box below. 

To burst my bubble

Do you know that saying, "to burst your bubble"?  It's something I use a lot.  I use it in reference to spoiling someones perfect moment (in a kind way of course) or in reference to their personal space.  Something I didn't realize until a few days ago was just how much God bursts our bubbles.  We live in a country and a generation where we bind ourselves within a comfort zone, aka the bubble.

I was invited to join a team of 18 vibrant people to walk through the dust to the poverty side of Guatemala.  Our mission as Christians is to minister to those around us, even to those we cannot see.  So the Lord made way for me to be apart of this Vision Trip.

Before I explain to you the events that took place, it's important that you get a feel for those that were with me for 9 days.  God strategically chose this group for the said bubble bursting.

Gerson Cerritos - He was meant to be our chauffeur and translator, although he became much more than that.  He became a friend who holds a great passion for Christ in which he spoke about with much intensity.

Doug and Stephanie Charbonneau - A couple who has been apart of this ministry for years.  They have so much love and spirit.

Andrea Sosa Cuevas - She was also a translator.  She has an extreme knowledge both mentally and emotionally for God.  Her passion is breathtaking and genuine.  I am grateful to have found this new friend.

Pastor Jorge, Marlen, and Kayla Hernandez - This family showed us the streets of Guatemala.  They are the glue that holds this ministry together.  After we are gone, they remain.  They have so much strength and faith in the Lord.  An example, for sure.

Brain Keller - He has a way with the truth and a magical way with children.

Ashley Metz - I have had the very real pleasure of calling her a friend.  She is a true role model for the compassion and tender nature a child of God should have.  She speaks with soft words and a joyful heart.

Robert and Vicki Pait - This couple exalts a combination of grace and laughter.  Two people that make it so easy to confide.  Two people that remind you of the true fulfilling manner in which you can live as a person seeking the Lord.

Anita Pifer - With a beautiful smile, this translator kept us on our toes.  She has a passion for the Guatemalan people and was a great example of that.

Tony Price - He created a balance of love and crazy.  A heart longing to be in the right and a wonderful example of what it means to willingly step out of the bubble.

Paul and Laurie Romanstine - The couple that has held this trip on their shoulders for almost 8 years.  Without the heart and sacrifice, Guatemala would not have been laid on our minds.

Greg and Danya Rock - A couple that is the saying, 'live, laugh, love'.

Paige Starnes - Talented and enthusiastic. She always lifts the Lord on high.

Day 1 - Travel to Guatemala

Day 2 - Feeding the Children of Sakerti and the Homeless/Home Visits

The first day was an overwhelming day.  The kids would bring anyone to tears.  Their innocence and high spirit would warm your heart.  We fed them breakfast and played with them for half the day.  We did face painting and gave away stickers...we jumped rope and watched everyone play soccer.  After lunch, we did home visits.  We saw a man with no legs, a child with an extra thumb, and a man addicted to alcohol.  Even amongst all of that, these people are so faithful.  We prayed and encouraged them.  Later that evening, we walked the streets and invited the homeless to have coffee and bread.  Before we passed everything out, one of our team members, Tony Price, gave an incredible testimony.  A few people responded and wanted Paul Romanstine to pray for them.  One man in particular, Antonio, is who I'll remember.  Paul placed a hand on his heart after talking with him for a minute (all of this being translated, by the way), started to tremble.  It was a severe sort of shaking...and he eventually collapsed to his knees in prayer.  It is an amazing thing to see first hand what God can do to people. 

Day 3 - Church in Guatemala

Worship in Guatemala is not like worship in the states (at least in SC).  I don't believe there is anything wrong in the way we worship, as long as your heart is in the right place.  Needless to say, it was different.  Folks were consumed by the holy spirit and they danced with their whole bodies.  The first service was in the street where everybody could see.  Brain Keller gave his testimony and mentioned the importance of those walking past us, seeing and hearing what was going on.  The second service was at the rehab center or the half-way house. I gave my testimony there, read part of chapter 3 from Ecclesiastes, and sang 'Amazing Love' with Paige Starnes.  It was an exhausting, yet uplifting day.

Day 4 - Pastor Juan and his ministry
On our third day, we drove to Patzun.  It was roughly two hours away from where we were staying.  Pastor Juan works with ministering to children.  We were able to visit one of the schools and we played with the children there.  After that we visited Pastor Juan's house and ate lunch with him.  This man played the accordion and sang 'I've got the joy' both in Spanish and in English.  What a blessing!  That night we got to go to Casa Chapina.  It was a nice way to break up the week.
Day 5 - It's all about the children
We went to Kayla's school and played with the children there and later on that afternoon we played with some kids in the park. Throughout the day with did home visits. We had a church service that evening.
Day 6 - Home Visits/Wednesday Church service

We did home visits and a church service. They don't normally do as many services, but since we were there, they did them for us. I was moved. They dance around a lot, so I danced with them. More like you would at a concert, hopping around and clapping. Then I prayed for a man, George. I also prayed for him the night before. I don't know him, but I feel so weighed down by his burdens. Then I sang with Pastor G again. We did 'Amazing Love' and 'Open my eyes'.  I was able to completely let go.

Day 7 - Pastor Avalino and his ministry/Street Kids

We fed children with Pastor Avalino. There was a woman there...at the end of the line...that had four children. She had been raped twice by gang members. I felt so much compassion for her. After that we spent time with the Street Kids.  Not all of them are actually children, although some are.  These kids are drug addicts.  We just did crafts with them. They have this program that tries to get them off the streets.

Day 8 - Antigua

After a week of bubble bursting, we were able to visit the market place in Antigua.  There we experienced the swindling of Guatemala and had some much needed downtown and fellowship with our team.  That evening we had our last service. 

I feel so strongly about what God has shown me here. He's opened me up. I knew that's what I needed and why I needed to come. Of course, after bonding with these people and their children, I have to return. One of the little girls the other day asked how long it was going to be until I returned. I can't lie to her.  I want to be able to communicate with them better and to watch them grow physically and spiritually. It may seem odd, Paul coming here for 7-8 years. But seeing him here...he's a part of their ministry just as if he were a member of their church. It's completely understandable. He has a loyalty to them and it's amazing what they have been able to do with our help. They are building an army of God. 

Day 9 - Travel home

I couldn't wait to get home. There are so many things I have missed...coke. Their coke here is different. The sugar is different somehow...or maybe its the type of syrup they use. I missed ketchup...it's the same way. Not as sweet or something. I missed having loads of ice in my drinks. The water isn't safe here. I missed brushing my teeth without a water bottle. I missed the comfort and security in eating whatever I want. The food here is filled with bacteria. (Although we did eat a ton at the fast food restaurant...) I missed my bed and my dog and cat. I wanted to hug them because there were TONS of homeless animals. But most of all I missed talking to and seeing my family.

 I know I'll miss Guatemala and it will be hard being home because I will remember the smell and the dirt. Everything is dirty....the people, the animals, the streets. The children's hair and clothes and finger nails. There hearts are pure though. I am filled with so much compassion for these people. With all the diseases, poverty, and insecure streets, they still have so much faith in God. And so much passion. It has taught me so much. I'm going to miss giving them joy. Playing with them. Putting stickers all over there innocent faces. I will miss praying for them and comforting them. But I did miss home. That's why I know two things...I had to go home but I also have to go back there.

God bursted my bubble on several occasions while in Guatemala but can I blame him?  Is that not the reason I needed to go?  It's interesting, since I've been home, many have asked me if the trip was life changing.  I tell them, rather it was eye opening.

I think the life changing part has to be up to me and you. 

Will you love your neighbor now that you have loved the neighbors of Guatemala?

Will you be filled with joy as you were in seeing the passion of Christ through his people?

Will you be at peace in trusting our Lord and savior?

Will you show kindness to those you meet?  Say hello and tangle a child's hair. 

Will you not be filled with goodness, ready and willing to spread the Good News?

Will you not have the faith of those you prayed with?

Will you have the same gentleness you shared with those homeless children or the spaced out street kids?

Will you have self-control in knowing what's good for you and what is not?

Or will you leave the lessons behind in a separate country?  The life changing part is up to you. 

In a year from now, how will you be able to answer that question about the Guatemala Vision Trip of 2012?

How has God burst your bubble?  Leave a comment in the box below.
Visit www.gloriaadiosguatemala.blogspot.com for information on Guatemala Vision Trip planning.

Surf art by Heather Brown!

While in Hawaii last year, I fell in love with art.  I finally understood what it would mean to decorate your home with peices that opened up a world combining color and perspective.  I do not have any specific favorites, but a friend of mine did.  Looking through these paintings and wondering which I would choose to keep was a lot of fun.  I want to share these because it reminds me of the most beautiful place I've ever seen.  It floods my memory with sweet Hawaiian happiness.

Visit www.heatherbrownart.com!

Curate your own art collection, right in this blog.  Find pictures and postcards and re-create your favorite pieces of art here – you know, the pieces that fill you with awe and wonder, the pieces that provoke you and fill you with joy, and the pieces that inspire you to be an artist yourself.  You can also include other types of art, from your favorite cartoon to a magazine photo that catches your eye.  – The Happy Book

Acrostics for the 4th!

Independence Day celebration

Nation in unision

Day with family

Every sacrifice remembered

Patriotism throughout hearts

Each color represented

Night sky sparkles

Do not forget

Everlasting freedom born

Never stand alone

Casting prideful smiles

Everywhere people reflect

Dedications ring out

Americans joyful song

Young, Proud, Strong

Nature's Miracles

Have you ever thought about the life cycle of a lady bug?  Until recently, I hadn't either.  This thought occurred while standing under a tree in Greenville.  I was with a friend and she noticed a bunch of odd looking bugs.  They looked similar to a ladybug (redish tent, black spots) but they were furry almost.  We did a little research and soon discovered that they were in fact ladybugs, only they had not yet turned into what we are used to seeing.  Sometimes its nice to stop and take a moment to appreciate what nature is doing.

The Egg.  As most insects, the lady bug does hatch from an egg.  What we saw were very small black spots and they were attached to leaves.  It would have been very easy to miss... I found that they are usually a pale yellow color, althought that's not what we saw.  Maybe the eggs we discovered were old?!  It takes 3-5 days for the eggs to hatch...so not very long at all.

The baby.  I've had tiny lady bugs land on me before and of course I always refer to them as the 'baby'.  Those tiny lady bugs are just that...they are small.  Actual baby lady bugs do not resemble their 'adult' nature at all.  It's actually pretty gross if you ask me.  They are scary and if something like this landed on me, I would not believe that luck was coming my way...nor would I think of it as a lady.

The life cycle of a lady bug makes me think a lot of captipellars, while they are young they spend their time eatting...and eatting...and eatting.  They do this for about 2-3 weeks.

The Pupa.  After filling up their long ugly bellies, they attach themselves to a leaf and pupate.  This would be like the cacoon.  They stay inside a 'shell like' home for about a week.  These are the little bugs we came across in Greenville.  These little guys sparked our curiousity.

  

There were a lot of them on the leaves and with a little time to kill, we started looking for them.  Don't they resemble the lady bug were used to?  The fur I was talking about early is what's closest to the leaf.  It may be hard to see in this picture.

The Lady bug.  Once the lady bug removes itself from the shell, it may be different alterations of red and in some cases more of a yellow color.  The shell will still stay on the leaf.  The lady bug is a fond insect once it's an adult...but somehow I won't ever be able to think of them the same.

What little things in nature are miracle enough?  The pattern of frost on your window?  The veins of a leaf?  A blade of grass?  The life cycle of an insect?  List them in the comment box below.

No need to BLUSH ladies!

I know what your thinking...it's about time she moved onto something else...I don't think I can handle much more featurettes.  The good news is, this is the last of them for a while.  The great thing about this website, is that before I get married, or buy a house, or have a baby...I will visit this website often.  It's a tool I can use as a single women or a married women; a gypsy or a homemaker; an independant women or a mother.  This website piggy-backs off of The Knot, The Nest, and The Bump but offers a wide range of everything fashion.  The older I get, the more fasinatied I become with make-up, clothes, and accessories.  I try new things and invent others.  This website features all sorts of geniune ideas about high-tailed fashion.  Be sure to visit The Blush for today's obessions!!

Maxi dresses under $100

I love maxi dresses.  It's one of those dresses that fits all sorts of people. If your worried about length you can either alter it or strap on a pair of HIGH heels.  You can wear it to a wedding or over a bathing suit at the beach.  Love them!!

Goddess Daydream Maxi Dress found at ThreadScence.com for $64

Quiz Cream, Pink, and Aqua Floral Print Maxi Dress found at Debenhams.com for $85

Blurred Ikat Animal Print Maxi Dress found at Loft.com for $79.50

Bar III Dress, One-Shoulder Ombre Belted Maxi found at Macys.com at $69

Stencil Print Maxi Dress found at Oasis.com at $72

Sassy New Nail Colors for the Summer

Wooden Shoe Like to Know by OPI for $8.50

Action by Essie for $8

Dayglow by Orly for $8.50

Rory by Zoya for $8

Covet by Urban Decay for $28 (they say you have to try the Emerald Green)

 

What every 30-something women needs to know...

1. Wear foundation or tinted moisturizer (your skin loses its natural glow because of sun exposure)!  Wear primer!

2. Wear daily and nightly eye-cream

3. Find a few minutes a day to do what you love

4. Use more natural products and less chemically based products

5. Infest in Spanx and a tailor

6. Work more on the inside than what's on the outside...after all that is what lasts forever

7. Wear your hair in a playful ponytail every now and then

8. Remember to include plenty of vitamins, nutrients, and water in your diet

9. Stray from using eye-liner or mascara on the bottom lid (in may draw attention to fine lines)

10. Respect yourself and have confidence!

11. Remove make-up before you go to bed!

12. Thin brows are not in...let them grow lush and beautiful.  (ps this is news to me, my brows are still thin...*sigh*)

13. Be proactive in what you wear...

14. Mosturize that skin!

15. Apparently...you can excersize your skin just like you can your muscles.  Skip the botox and find out more from Cynthia Rowland.

16. Your best beauty accessory is your smile.

What to wear on a first date

Flirty Ballerina

Cute and Comfortable

Natural and Sexy

Just be yourself

What's your best 'first-date' outfit?  Leave your answer in the box below.

For glowing Mother's-To-Be

If you've taken a look at either The Knot or The Nest from my previous posts, you may have noticed the second sister website The Bump.  I've driven my closest friends crazy with my 'make-believe' life altering events.  I just can't stop while I'm ahead.  I've worn the imaginary veil and held the very thin key.  For the glowing mother's-to-be, I'm taking a few steps for you.  I can't promise I'll have all the inside scoops on pregnancy, but I'll list the few features I thought might be most promising!

Super Creative Baby Shower Ideas!

Showers. "This theme takes the shower in baby shower very literally."

Voting Ballad. "Don't know if it's a boy or a girl? Get guests involved in guessing baby's gender."

Bird Theme. "This is a sophisticated take on a classic motif like birds. Decorate with a birdcage perched in pretty branches."

Candles. "Luxe candles are a great favor for guests. You can buy some inexpensive ones in bulk."

Cupcake Toppers.  "We love these 'Eat Me' cupcake toppers.  They're easy to DIY.  Get some printed card stock and cut it into fun shapes; then glue another sheet of paper with fun sayings or illustrations onto the card stock."  Plus, it reminds me a little bit of Alice and Wonderland!!

Best Maternity Collections

A Pea in the Pod.  This well-known brand has its own collection of clothes created just for its store from designers such as Splendid, 7 for All Mankind, J Brand, BCBG and Lavish by Heidi Klum.  www.APeainthePod.com

Japanese Weekend.  For easy-to-wear pieces with a trendy edge, check out this down-to-earth designer's maternity and nursing line.  www.JapaneseWeekend.com

Liz Lange Maternity.  Clothes that fit and flatter!  www.LizLange.com

Breastfeeding as Baby Grows

This topic has been in controversery lately.  Some want to 'feed' their young a lot longer than others.  I noticed The Bump featured this topic and I wanted to take a look at it.  I wondered, more than anything, the minimum amount of time you should breastfeed your child.  After that point (and even before), it's really up to the mother to decide when it's time to pour from the carton.

The Bump says this, "there's no such thing as an 'extended' breastfeeding".  What that means is there's no requirement on how you nurture your child.  Most mom's breastfeed until the infant turns one, but other's do it until the infant is a toddler.  Apparently there's no right or wrong way.  Breast milk is good for nutrients, vitamins, and antibodies.  Some say it's good for bonding as well.  

The Bump had much more to offer regarding this subject.  Visit the website and find out about how much time it will take to do it, how much your baby is drinking, the distractions that will come, solid foods taking over, and introductions to new milks.

Most Popular Baby Names

Top ten baby boy names.  Jacob, Ethan, Daniel, Matthew, Alexander, Michael, Joshua, Christopher, William, Anthony

Top ten baby girl names.  Emma, Emily, Ava*, Sophia*, Elizabeth*, Isabella*, Madison*, Olivia*, Abigail, Chloe

The Bump also has popular baby names in other categories: African, Biblical, celebrity, English, Greek, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Jewish, Latin, Russian, Spanish, Unisex, and Welsh.

Having a baby seems like a miraculous adventure.  It's sure to make anyone happy.  Preparing for a new born and celebrating with family and close friends; choosing a name that has meaning and value; or learning better ways to keep your baby healthy and strong can put a smile on any new mother's or father's face.  Visit The Bump for all your baby needs.

What would you name your children and why?  If you have children, why did you choose their names?  Leave your comment in the box below.

Building the nest

Do you remember the three things I listed about what generally is someone's happiest day?  A little review....

"the day I bought my first home"

"the day I married the love of my life"

"the day I saw my baby boy/girl for the first time"

It just so happens that The Knot (the website that perfected wedding planning) also has a sister website called The Nest.  I had so much fun pretending to be a bride, I thought I would step into the mind of a potential home owner.

As I did before, I'm only going to review my favorite features as each website has SO much to offer.

Summer Inspired Rooms

What's a house without a fabulously decorated room?!

"Cottage Modern Guest Bedroom: The greens and blues keep this guest bedroom fresh while also inviting in inspiration from the colors of the sea."

"Writer's Retreat on the Dunes - Breakfast Room: A Russian satellite spy photo of Chicago from the 1950’s hangs over a table and chairs from the same era, offering a slice of Americana with breakfast."

"Seaside Bathroom: A beautiful Malibu, California, weekend house gets a seaside makeover courtesy of interior designer Kerry Joyce, who lined the room with shallow shelving to display starfish and shells. The walls are painted a pale aqua by Donald Kaufman Color."

"Funky Sitting Room: Create your own charming corner chat room boasting with modern style. Paint wicker chairs a bright shade of aqua and add cushions in funky black and white polka dots and stripes."

Or go neutral. What's so great about a room like this is that you can turn it from a summer inspired room into more of a cold weather abode.  I love a room like this, and the green is such a great color!

Scrumptious Grilled Recipes

I have discovered the world of hosting.  Sometimes it can be hard work, but it's rewarding.  It's nice to surprise your guests with a new receipe.  I find receipes from many different places, so The Nest has sparked my interest.

Comme Ca Burger   

Ingredients
9 oz. of best ground beef you can find (Prime Angus recommended)
1/4 teaspoon of chili powder
a dash of cayenne
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 oz sliced iceberg lettuce
1 1/2 oz sliced onion
2 slices cheddar cheese
One bun
1000 island or a similar mayonnaise-based dressing of their choice.

Preparation
1. Mix chili powder and cayenne into the burger. Season both sides of the patty with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the meat on the grill over high heat for about 1 ½ minutes until the meat has a nice dark brown color but not burnt.
3. Place on hot side of the grill to the side of the hot coals for about five minutes for medium rare and then let it rest for 3-4 minutes to the side of the heat. Just before serving, put two slices of cheese on the burger and place it in the oven or covered grill to melt.
4. Dress lettuce and onion with 1000 island.
5. Place on bun, add lettuce and onion and serve.

North Carolina Eastern-Style Chopped or Pulled ’Cue   

Makes: at least 10 servings

Ingredients
One small (1 1/2- to 2-pound) bag hickory wood chips
One 10-pound bag charcoal briquets
2 cups white vinegar
1 cup cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
One 9- to 10-pound pork shoulder butt (all skin and fat left on)
Preparation
1. In a pan of water, soak 6 handfuls of the chips for 45 minutes.
2. Open one bottom and one top vent on a kettle grill, place an aluminum drip pan in the bottom of the grill, stack charcoal briquets evenly around the pan (not in the center), and ignite the coals. When the coals are ashen (30 to 45 minutes), sprinkle 2 handfuls of the soaked chips evenly over the hot coals. Place the grate on the grill about 6 inches over the coals.
3. In a nonreactive bowl, combine the vinegars, sugar, red pepper, Tabasco, salt, and pepper and stir till the sugar is dissolved and the sauce well blended. When the coals are ready on the grill, position the butt fat side up on the grate over indirect heat, mop it with the sauce, close the lid, and cook for 3 hours, mopping the meat every hour and replenishing the coals and chips as they burn up. Turn the butt over, close the lid, and cook till the meat is very tender, 2 to 3 hours longer, mopping every hour and replenishing the coals and chips as needed.

Shrimp Sausage Kabobs

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients
8 bamboo skewers
1 pound large shrimp (26–30 size), peeled and deveined
1 pound smoked sausage, cut into 3/4-inch rounds
1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and cut into roughly 1-inch squares
Spray cooking oil
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preparation
One hour before grilling, soak the bamboo skewers in warm water.
Prepare enough coals for a hot charcoal fire, or preheat your gas grill on high for 10 minutes with the lid closed.
While the coals are heating up, thread the shrimp, smoked sausage, and red pepper squares onto the skewers, making sure not to crowd them too closely.
When the coals are ready or the gas grill is hot, spray the kabobs liberally with cooking oil and place them on the grill.
Cook for 3 minutes. Spray the kabobs again with oil, turn, and grill for 2 to 3 minutes more, until the shrimp are just cooked through.
Transfer the skewers to a platter. Drizzle with the olive oil and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Grilled Sicilian Caponata

Ingredients:
2 large eggplants
1 large zucchini
1/2 cup olive oil
2 medium sweet onions, like Vidalia or Maui, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
10 plum tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and diced, or 3 cups canned Italian chopped tomatoes,undrained
1 tablespoon capers, drained
5 tablespoons red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
1/4 cup small green olives such as Picholine, drained and pitted
Kosher salt to taste
Leaves from 1 bunch fresh basil, chopped just before using.
Preheat a gas grill or build a charcoal fire for direct grilling.
Cut the eggplants and zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut the halves lengthwise into slices 1⁄2 inch thick. Brush with the some of the oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Place the slices on the cooking grate over direct medium heat and grill until tender and well marked, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, heat enough olive oil to coat the bottom of a large, deep, heavy pot like a Dutch oven or sauté pan over medium heat, then add the onions and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
Add the tomatoes, capers, 3 tablespoons of the vinegar, the red pepper, sea salt, and olives and simmer for 15 minutes. While the tomato mixture is cooking, dice the grilled eggplant and zucchini, then add to the tomatoes and simmer, uncovered, until slightly thickened, another 10 to 15 minutes.
Mix the remaining 1⁄4 cup oil and 2 tablespoons vinegar together and stir into the vegetable mixture.
Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more vinegar and salt if necessary. Remove from the heat and stir in the basil. Serve warm or cold. This will keep, tightly covered, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Grilled Steak With Cracked Peppercorns   

Serves: 2
Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:

4 teaspoons black or mixed peppercorns
1 to 2 teaspoons coarse salt
2 Porterhouse steaks (or other cut of choice)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 lemon wedges (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the toaster oven to broil (the oven should be good and hot before you put the steak in the oven). For easy clean-up, line the toaster oven baking tray with aluminum foil. (Check your manufacturer's instructions, however, for any cautions against the use of aluminum foil in your toaster oven.)

Crush the peppercorns and salt in a mortar using a pestle. Rub both sides of the steak with the olive oil and press the peppercorn mixture into the steaks. Place the steak on the prepared tray. Place the steak under the broiler and cook for about 7 to 10 minutes on each side, until the steak reaches medium doneness. (The time may vary depending upon the thickness of the steak you have chosen and the degree of doneness you prefer.) Remove from the oven, transfer to plates, and serve immediately with lemon. 

Renting your first home?  Renters problems and solutions.

Unwanted guests.  The Nest says to take a good look at your lease.  It may mention infestations...rodents or bugs.  That's something you'll want to pay attention to.  If your lease doesn't mention them, check your state's rental laws.  It may help in preparing you for any problems.

 Broken Appliances. The first thing you should do if appliances start doing crazy things, is speak to your landlord.  Early and often!!  It's a good lesson to learn.  The Nest says that most landlords have a "duty to repair", which requires them to keep things running.  Be sure to document which appliances start knocking and what exactly is happening with them.  Note the date you notify your landlord.  If your landlord doesn't respond within an appropriate amount of time, speak to someone at your local housing officials.  Be sure to read your lease beforehand, you need to know if your responsible, as the renter, to do repairs. 

Damage.  Okay, so sometimes accidents happen.  You gave the landlord a security deposit for a reason.  Fix it if it's small but if it's a bigger problem you should notify your landlord.  The landlord will probably decide on wether you should repair the damages or wether they will deduct the cost from your security deposit.  Or you'll just get kicked out.  Hey...The Nest said it was a possibility.

Foreclosure.  There isn't much of a solution with this.  But a silverlining... your entitled to a certain amount of time to move out... on average, 90 days (3 months). 

Needing to move back before your lease is up.  This is one of those things that calls for landlord permission.  It may be mentioned in the rental contract...check to be sure! 

Unliviable and neglient landlord.  You have the choice to move out as you please.  Breaking a lease is not uncommon, but each state has different laws.  Check these before you start packing!!

Okay, so owning your own home is a lot more work than planning a wedding.  A lot of the responsibility falls on you, unless your renting.  The best part about having a house though, is creating your own utopia.  Choosing the color paint and style of each room can make it all worth it.  Host a party and cook up something on the grill and your bound to forget about a broken appliance that needs fixing.

Whether your getting married or buying a home, life is going to give you things to worry about.  Your job is to work around that and to make the most of it.  That's how we do happiness!!

What part of your home do you love the most?