It Is What It Is

52 Graces- Catch Up

Way back in January I jumped on the bandwagon of another blogger, Julie from Blah, Blah Blog.  She actually had jumped on someone else's bandwagon of writing a post a week about the things we are grateful for in our lives.  Thus, 52 Graces was born.  I loved the idea.  I especially loved that it was once a week and I felt that even my procrastinating self could manage a once a week commitment. 

I might also mention that I didn't want my 52 Graces to be schmaltzy whereby I start naming all the people in my life, the air I breathe, the sun that shines down upon my head, etc....grateful postings.  I tried to come up with obscure things that might seem little or insignificant to others, but made a difference to me in my daily living. 

Well, I started out that way.  Then I did go down the hearts and flowers path a little and then I did a mini- marathon catch up and then I didn't do any for a long time.  Now we are almost at the end of October, (still not sure how that happened...) and I'm way behind AGAIN.  I had the choice to kind of let it slide and just forget about it altogether, but then I thought of Julie and her blog and I felt kind of sad because, Julie  had a very funny, slice of life blog that I aspired to be like.  We had shared a few emails back and forth and I considered her to be one of my blog buddies....(which by the way is one of the greatest things about doing this blog thing- all the great folks you meet, virtual hook up with, etc...)  One day, Julie stopped posting.  I would check back occasionally to see if she had posted anything new, and still -nothing.    I sent Julie an email to check in on her.  I didn't want to invade her privacy, but I was genuinely concerned and wanted to make sure she was okay.

  She sent me back an email thanking me for my concern, but she had been and ill and her family had been ill and well life just got in the way and she would be back to posting soon.  Except, she didn't post again.  In fact, her blog site is gone, closed down.  I'm very sad about this and more than anything, I'm just hoping and praying that Julie and her family are doing okay.  Since, I'm not a personal friend of Julie, I don't feel right sending her another email.  Perhaps, nothing happened except she decided to stop blogging.  But, I can't help thinking about Julie and how she inspired me.  So, in honor of Julie and her old site, Blah, Blah Blog- I will continue on with my 52 Graces- they may not all be serious, they might be schmaltzy and they might be totally light on content- but I will come up with the remainder of the list. 

Starting now- the following list of items are things that I like.  Because I like them, I am grateful for their availability and their presence in my life- thus they are a part of my 52 Graces....

22.    This summer I became addicted the $1 Sweet Tea at McDonald's.  I gave up Soda/Pop a year ago in June.  I just decided I didn't need to drink it any more.  I did not give up coffee...(please see upcoming note)   Love this refreshing drink and the super price! 

23.These crispy chips are reduced fat- so reduced guilt.  I love the crunchy, salty texture.  You can't be good all the time and when you need a little sumpin' these chips fill the bill.  Plus they hold up well to dippin'!

24.  Fall probably is my favorite of the seasons.  Especially when you get a beautiful Indian Summer day like we experienced today here in the Midwest.  Sunshine, warmer temps but still a little crispness to the air and the gorgeous coloring of all things.

25.  Friday Night football- this goes hand in hand with the fall season.  We have season tickets to our kid's high school football games.  This is one of those rare things that we all do together as a family.  We don't actually all hang out together while there, but we do all end up going home together after a stop at our favorite pizza place.  It's a tradition and one that I love.  (except when it's raining!)

26.  I've been on a soup kick for quite some time.  Lobster bisque is my current main squeeze.  I love the bisque from Bravo's (an Italian restaurant chain) but my local grocery store has their version every Saturday and it's a must have for me on the weekends. 

27.  I will never stop wearing eye liner.  One of my girlfriends told me that as you age...(she's about 5 years younger than me...) you shouldn't wear eye liner.  She said she read that you should just use shadow and mascara.  Sorry- that  old dog don't hunt for me.  My eyes are not complete without eye liner.  My favorite- L'Oreal Intense Eye Liner.  It's like a liquid eye liner (which I could never, ever put on correctly) in a magic marker type pen...It is fabulous!  Love it- I did wish they would put a smudgy edge on the the other end to help with the application, but I just keep using my other smudgy edge from a long ago used other eye pencil.  (I do clean and sanitize them - so don't worry.)

28. 
Something about walking into a Michael's Craft store just gets my motor running.  I could go in for one thing and come out with about 10 other things.  The store makes me want to be a better crafter (which by the way- I don't consider myself crafty at all) which is why I love Michael's - it helps with the fantasy.

29.  See these little puffs of peppermint magic?  I'm totally addicted.  Addicted to the point that I have to stop myself from buying them because otherwise I will consume the entire container.  I constantly have mints available to me - (I'm phobic about bad breath...I have several kinds of breath fresheners in my car/purse at all times.)  These little peppermint beauties not only freshen your breath- they refresh you and they're a little sweet- and they take care of any sweet cravings.  They just melt in your mouth- so they don't cut up your mouth like other hard candies can. 

30.  Pilate's Class.  Started this exercise this summer and fell in love.  My instructor is awesome, mainly because she helps my out of shape behind with lots of compassion and patience.  Never before have I worked so hard in a class ( I'm from the Jane Fonda workout crowd too...)  and enjoyed myself so much. 

31. 
   SCARVES!  Enough said- I would wear them every day and sometimes I do.  Don't you love these beauties from Anthropologie? 

31.  Drive thru- only.

32.  Fun, colorful watches.  I have lots of watches. Most of them aren't very valuable in price- but valuable in the fun factor.  I love to change them up to match my outfit- the more outrageous the color/strap the better.  A great place to buy them is...

33.   Another shopping fav of mine- for clothes, shoes, accessories, gifts, seasonal decorative items and dishes.  Lucky for me I have one practically on my corner. 

34.  I'm not a shopping snob.  Name brands on clothing are not that important to me- what is important is style and price.  I love nothing more than to have something on and get complimented on it and tell the person "thanks- I got it at the walmarts..."  I also love their prices and perusing their aisles late at night when you never know what you'll find on sale.

35.  Especially with Beloved and friends. 

36. 
    I'm not a pumpkin pie fan, but I do like other things pumpkin.  Right now I'm on a pumpkin ice cream kick.  My newest favorite- is a flavor by Handel's Ice Cream- Pumpkin Pecan.   Yummy- sweet, creamy pumpkin ice cream with crunchy, salty-sweet pecans.  Not great for the diet- but a definite treat!

Okay- I've probably bored you by now- but I still have catching up to do- which I will do by hook or by crook as they say...but for now that's just a little peek into some the things that make me a happy gal.  

Tell me what you like- can't live without, have been jonesing for lately....I'd love to hear it!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 
 
 

 
 

Hey Now, I've Had My Reasons

Hey ya'll in Blogland.  I've been a little preoccupied with some things going on in my life and this week I've been trying to play catch up.  I didn't mean to ignore my little site, but truthfully, I haven't felt inspired.  Now, I know many of you will think how is that any different than anything else you write?  Most posts don't seem all that inspiring...well truth be told I have to feel a little moved on a personal level in order for me to get these keystrokes published.  And sometimes, you just have to do it in order to get the creative juices flowing again- so here goes. 

I just finished up with a fundraiser that I've done in some form or fashion for the last three years.  I always enjoy the process and the time spent in preparation.  I do however always seem to have the "blues" once the event is complete.  Admittedly, I've felt a little postpartum this week.  I was feeling emotional about the event ending but also about some changes that are occurring in my job.  So, for a good portion of the week, I was a little weepy.  (internally- most of the time.)  It didn't help that I was listening to an emotional saga that I feel compelled to share with you.

I preface this review with the notation that I have never had a personal experience with a family member suffering with Alzheimer's Disease.  I thought I had a good understanding of the disease and the havoc it causes the one afflicted and their family members.  However, after finishing this book, I can tell you that I didn't really have a clue. 

The book I'm referring to is- "Still Alice" by Lisa Genova. 

This is a first novel for the author.  "Still Alice" is the story of Alice Howland, an acclaimed professor of Psychology and Linguistics at Harvard University.  She is a 50 year old woman, mother and  wife who is diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease. 

This story is told from Alice's perspective.  We literally take this journey with Alice from the fast paced life of this accomplished academian to the ravages of how her mind ceases to perform. 

I have to say, it's been a very long time since I have had such an emotional response to a book.  I know part of it might have been my own "blues" and this was an organic way of dealing with my own feelings.  However, I truly felt the frustration, pain and hurt of what this disease was stealing from not only Alice but her friends, colleagues and most importantly, her family.

I highly recommend "Still Alice.''  It's an emotional and gut wrenching ride, but well worth it.  The author beautifully portrays what happens when someone suffers from this disease.  She explores the challenges of how someone deals with the progression of Alzheimer's, knowing the end results and still trying to live their life to the fullest and maintain their dignity. 

Share with me what you've been reading or any stories you may have regarding Alzheimer's.  I'd love to hear them.

Graces - 21 of 52

Book Clubs.

I've said it before and I'll say again, I love all things books.  I love reading books, I love looking for books, I love talking about books.  I love discussing books I've read with others who have read the same book.  Thus, my Book Club group.  We are an eclectic little group.  All avid readers.  We have a fairly informal meeting style.  We are extremely diplomatic when it comes to choosing books for the group to read.  We take turns hosting the Book Club at our homes.  This past month's meeting was extremely fun and interactive, because we actually had the author of the book join us in our discussion.

How fun is that?!  It was a lot of fun I tell you- because we were able to actually ask the questions that linger in your mind after reading a book and get an answer to them. 

The book in discussion? 

    by the author Jill Smolinski    

The Next Thing on My List is the story of a gal who is involved in a tragic car accident.  The other passenger in the car is killed and leaves behind a list of "20 things to do before turning 25."   The gal who survives takes it upon herself to complete the list for the girl and her family and ends up changing her life because of it. 

This book is a great little read and lends itself to all kinds of self awareness questioning.  I would recommend it and give my official "thumbs-up." 

We had a great time discussing the book with Jill.

This is Jill on speakerphone.

 

This is part of our group, preparing to talk to Jill.  L put out a fabulous array of goodies.

 

Look at his beautiful tray of kicked up bruschetta.

 

This gorgeous key lime tart with blueberries.  (I think it was key lime- I'm off sugar these days and didn't get to sample, but the reviews were wonderful.)

 

A refreshing sangria that I believe was made with champagne.

Intently listening to the author, Jill Smolinski.

 

A good time was had by all....another fun-filled, informative Book Club.  If you don't have one, invite a few friends to join you and create your own.  It's a book thing...and one of my graces.

 

Graces - 20 of 52

FAMILY. 

They're the ones that are always there.  They have your back.  You love unconditionally.  These are some shots of our family and of events that took place during the busy month of May and early June.  It seems like a really long time ago that these happenings took place and now I feel so far away from that time and in such a different place.  Moving ahead, looking forward with new stories to tell.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

It's rare to catch this one with a smile- seems like the perfect place to end and begin...

 

Graces- 19 of 52

 

Lazy summer weekend days spent at the pool. 

 We belong to a health club that includes both an indoor and outdoor pool.  It's not the fanciest of pools.  As a matter of fact, it's pretty ordinary.  There are no diving boards or slides.  Just a rectangle filled with water. 

Our pool is very secluded.  It sometimes feels as though you really are in your own backyard.  It's fairly quiet whenever you happen to be there.  Never too crowded.  I've never had to search for a lounge chair.    As a matter of fact, I pretty much sit in the same spot all the time.  Again, almost like being at home in my own backyard-(which doesn't have a pool.) 

The other guests are friendly, but everyone really keeps to themselves.  I like seeing the same faces over again- knowing that I don't have to engage in conversation unless I want to.  Beloved loves going to the pool.  It's the one place he truly relaxes.  He doesn't feel pulled to retreat back into work mode.  I love knowing I can see my kid(s) without having to search and search anxiously.  They feel safe and comfortable there, as well.

We spend many a summer weekend at our pool.  Time spent being solitary or engaged with each other.   We enjoy going there together as a family.  And anything that we can all agree on to do together, surely is a grace.

Graces- 18 of 52

BOOKS.  I could wax on forever about books.  In fact, I have written about books before and I'm sure I will be writing about books again in the future.  I love books and am oh so grateful for books.  For my personal collection of books, for the library's collection of books, for used book stores and NEW bookstores.  If I was standing before a shoe store and a book store-and could only enter one- hands down- the book store would win!

Graces- 17 of 52

Well friends, I'm way behind on a lot of things, this blog included along with the graces- so we interrupt my dry spell for some things of beauty.  Flowers, greenery, garden goo-gahs - these are all things I'm grateful to look at on a daily basis. 

  

 

Aren't those froggies adorable?  I just love them.  My friend L, turned me on to these Carruth's cuties and to the special place you can buy them at reduced prices...

 

Don't you just love Hostas?  Especially the elephant ear size?  This is another gift from L, who divided some plants up and was kind enough to share.  (That's something else to be grateful for- gardener friends who like to share!!)

 

I love ferns on a front porch.  I really don't have a front porch to hang them from- so I improvise and set one upon an old stool that I trash picked!!

 

Nothing is more luscious than the smell of lilacs in the air.  

 

I love ornamental grasses....

 

Mother Nature's color palette of greens is unbelievable...

 

Is that not the cleverest plant hanger?  Another treasure I found with L.  (Are you seeing a pattern here?) 

 

Beloved worked extra hard to get this backyard in shape in time for Eldest's graduation party.  Notice the patio rug- he picked that out all on his own and I love it!  Way to go, Beloved.  Thanks for working so hard. 

 

Once more- just because I love the colors so much.  Enjoy.

Graces- 15 of 52

FRIENDS.  You know who you are- and if you don't I'm not doing my job.  It's you- the person I talk to on a daily basis.  It's you who I run into occasionally at school and nod hello.  It's you the person I spill my guts to , complain to, laugh with, gossip with, work with ....I appreciate each and every person who I consider a friend or acquaintance.  I need you and am grateful for the part you play in my life. 

Life's hard- friends soften the blow.  Life's a journey- friends make the ride more interesting.  Friends are the family you get to pick yourself.   Thanks for being my friend.

Graces- 11-14 of 52

Alright- I know I'm way behind on sharing my Graces.  So with that being said, please no judging... 

 1.  For being so behind....

2.  For thinking I'm shallow because I'm about to share a few brands of things that I enjoy that add a little sumpin' sumpin' to my daily journey.

11.  My Wacaol Bra.  My friends M and K turned me on to this little gem.  Wearing this bra is like having a "Boob-Lift"  without the surgery.  (At least while you're wearing it- all bets are off when the bra comes off...naturally.)  I couldn't be more pleased with how this bra lifts, separates and supports.  I know I sound like a Playtex commercial - but this bra is a dream!  I'm a difficult size to fit and now that I have it in nude and black- I've gone to bra heaven!

  This is the Wacaol Awareness Seamless Underwire Support Bra that has turned my life around!

 

 

12.  Kirkland for Broghese Moisturizing/Anti Aging Lotion

 

I use this lotion everyday.  It has SPF15 built in- it's light, but does the work of a heavier moisturizer.  It's not greasy and doesn't cause breakouts to my freakishly aging skin that still gets zits!  Plus- it's relatively inexpensive ($20ish) and lasts a really long time!  Available through Costco. 

13.  Coffeemate Fat Free Vanilla Flavored Coffee Creamer

 

I actually like most flavored creamers, but I'm partial to this plain, old Vanilla flavored one because it's Fat Free and delicious!  I drink a lot of coffee (all day and I even make a pot after dinner) and this stuff just makes me and my coffee happy!

14.  Vera Bradley Anything

   

I'm not the girl who has to have "Designer" handbags, but I do love my Vera Bradley.  These adorable fabric handbags and accessories come in a plethora of color combination/patterns.  All very cheerful and fun.  I only have a few and I love them dearly.  I am starting to get a little collection of accessories thanks to my good bud, L who gave each of one of us on the "Retreat" a little key chain/card holder and at Book club at M's house, I won the door prize of a Vera Book cover!  Recently, I hit pay dirt and got a new bag at 50% off!  Yeah me!  

 So- this should be bring me up to date on Graces.  I know the above might seem a little lame- but I wanted to share a few of the things that I love and would recommend to anyone else should they be looking to buy a bra, moisturizer, creamer (ha ha) or a handbag!  I'm sure I'll be sharing again in the months to come....and as MS (Martha Stewart) says "It's a Good thing."

Graces- 10 of 52

Erie Shores Handpiece Repair.

Today was a very good day for our little business.  We participated in our 2nd Spring Clinic Dental Show sponsored by our local Dental Society.  What a difference a year makes!  Last year we were unsure as to what to expect.  We were the "new kids on the block."  One year late we are a whole lot wiser and felt like pros!  I am most especially proud of Beloved!  He has so grown into his role of business owner.  He was so confident in approaching current and potential clients.  He was definitely walkin' the talk today! 

 

There's Beloved at our booth!  I must say, we are especially proud of how our logo looks.  We actually look official!

 

That's J with Beloved handing out our bags to clinic attendees.  We were so excited to see so many people walking around with our "Bags" filled to the brim with their Exhibitor Swag.  J is our Guardian Angel here on earth.  She is a "Grace" to our family unto herself.  (That gives me an idea....)

 

That's John and colleague.  John is involved in a little local group that we are in that support one another within the Dental community.  Kind of scratch each other's back support group.  He's a great guy.  (We were all hooked up by an outstanding gal named Ingrid, of St. Catherine Consulting.  She couldn't attend today and was missed.  She has been such a good friend and support to us in our business.  Our area  was known as the "Ingrid Triangle" because everyone who works with her group was placed near one another!)

 

These classy guys are from Signature Bank.  This is a top notch outfit to be involved with.  They get a lot of traffic and are nice enough  to let us request to be located near them every year. 

 

They say image is everything- I think we look pretty sweet in out matching logo shirts!  They also say "when God closes one door, he opens another ..."  That saying is so true in our lives.  We are so grateful for the opportunity to serve our local dental community, working in an industry we enjoy and working for ourselves.  Two years ago when things looked bleak- (both of us unemployed at that same time...) I never thought we'd be where we are today.  Actually, that's not quite true.  I believed in our business concept and I believed in our ability to work as a team (J inlcuded!) to make this business a success.  I'm proud and grateful for how far we've come in a short amount of time.  We aren't where we'd like to be, but everyday, we get a little closer.  And that, is a blessing!

P.S.  On a personal note, I will be starting a full time position within the company I am employed by starting April 1.  I have mixed emotions regarding this.  One thought is like my previous Grace stated, I'm extremely grateful to have my job.  I also believe things happen for a reason and I'm meant to spend my work time on that endeavor.  However, another part of me is sad that I won't have that day to day interaction with our business.  I'll really miss that satisfaction of knowing one of my contributions made a difference or helped grow our business.  I know the business is in great, capable hands, but truly, a small part of me is a little envious that I won't be as involved in the day to day opeartions.