New Year's Eve Shoes

The merry year is born
Like the bright berry from the naked thorn.
- Hartley Coleridge

 

Truth

Writer

“There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”
― Ernest Hemingway

Family Brunch

Book: Stronger

Probably one of the best books I have read in a while. It talks about going through difficult times and trials in your life and becoming STRONGER not bitter through the tears. Read this book in about three days - it's that good. Could not set it down. By Jim Daly, the President of Focus on the Family, he shares stories from his personal life - which make you reflect on God's provision, holiness and guidance.

Order it here. It's worth it.

If We Walk With the Wise

I prayed a prayer for wisdom just like a farmer prays for rain
'Cause I know that I must have it to survive in this life
And I stared out in the distance 'cause it seemed so far away
And I waited for the lightning

But the lightning and the thunder never came
So I took a look beside me to my left and to my right
And saw people full of wisdom all around in my life
And it started to come clearer I began to understand
That my prayer was being answered, it's all part of God's plan

CHORUS
If we walk with the wise we will grow wise ..wo ..wo
If we walk in the light then our path will be bright I know
There's someone who's already been where we must go
In the light of what they've learned we find
That we will grow wise if we walk with the wise

I've learned to look for answers in those born before my time
As I listen to them tell me what they've learned in their lives
I talk to friends with understanding much deeper than my own
And gain wisdom beyond measure I could never find alone

One life can be a candle with wisdom as its fire
And every life touches with its flame is set ablaze

 

-Steven Curtis Chapman 

Restoring Heritage Through Prayer

Absolutely loved this entry from Bobby Conner, Eagles View Ministries, in my Elijah List e-mail this morning:

The task set before us is no small task; we are to restore the desolate heritages of many generations.

Thus says the LORD: "In an acceptable time I have heard You, and in the day of salvation I have helped You; I will preserve You and give You as a covenant to the people, to restore the earth, to cause them to inherit the desolate heritages." Isaiah 49:8

This is the acceptable time; or in other words, the time of God's overflowing favor. This is a time that Heaven is open to our prayers. 

"I have heard you!" God's Word promises that if we ask anything according to His will we will receive what we are asking for (1 John 5:14–15).

This is also the day of restoration and of the restoration of desolate heritages – you can expect to recover what many generations have lost! God is thundering the promise of Joel 2:25: "I will restore!"
 
You are to be established as a Kingdom Priest. There has never been such an incredibly important season of advancing the Kingdom of God. We are in His Kingdom "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14).

His Kingdom is in you for such a time as this.

Life Quotes

Thanksgiving in DC

Was in Washington, DC for Thanksgiving this year. Was surprised - that I could make my own holiday meal. No turkey - but gluten free stuffing, deviled eggs and cranberry sauce.

Being George Washington

Order This Online HERE

This is the amazing true story of a real-life superhero who wore no cape and possessed no special powers—yet changed the world forever. It’s a story about a man whose life reads as if it were torn from the pages of an action novel: Bullet holes through his clothing. Horses shot out from under him. Unimaginable hardship. Disease. Heroism. Spies and double-agents. And, of course, the unmistakable hand of Divine Providence that guided it all.

Being George Washington is a whole new way to look at history. You won’t simply read about the awful winter spent at Valley Forge—you’ll live it right alongside Washington. You’ll be on the boat with him crossing the Delaware, in the trenches with him at Yorktown, and standing next to him at the Constitutional Convention as a new republic is finally born.

Through these stories you’ll not only learn our real history (and how it applies to today), you’ll also see how the media and others have distorted our view of it. It’s ironic that the best-known fact about George Washington—that he chopped down a cherry tree—is a complete lie. It’s even more ironic when you consider that a lie was thought necessary to prove he could not tell one.

For all of his heroism and triumphs, Washington’s single greatest accomplishment was the man he created in the process: courageous and principled, fair and just, respectful to all. But he was also something else: flawed.

It’s those flaws that should give us hope for today. After all, if Washington had been perfect, then there would be no way to build another one. That’s why this book is not just about being George Washington in 1776, it’s about the struggle to be him every single day of our lives. Understanding the way he turned himself from an uneducated farmer into the Indispensable (yet imperfect) Man, is the only way to build a new generation of George Washingtons that can take on the extraordinary challenges that America is once again facing.

Shark Dream

So, I dreamed about a Great White Shark last night. Maybe because President Obama announced we'd be working with Australia - and sending troops over there to train?

Whatever the reason, it was not a pleasant dream. My mother always taught me that dreams have meanings (esp - as a spiritual Christian person, I believe this). So, took the time time to look up the meaning of a shark in a dream. This is what I found: 

SHARKS : Sharks can often symbolise resentments and bad feelings which are building up in our minds. They refer to bad moods and a sense that trouble is about to happen. They can also link to risk in general and emotional doubts and worries.

(Hmmm....what do you think!?) 

Want to order this necklace? Get it on Etsy.

Oh No, She's Up!

Relax Riesling

Don't typically like sweet wine. However, this little $8 bottle of Riesling has won me over. Not to mention the blue bottle is sleek and very cute. (Cobalt blue is one of my favorite colors). You can also order Christmas gifts this year - via their website. Now, that's pretty cool as well.

 

 

 

This picture is fitting - DC as the background

Gluten Free French Toast

Complete with Maple Syrup from the Canadian Embassy

Red, White & Blue Ball

Loafers

Purchased these shoes today. Have always wanted loafer type shoes. These shoes are Sperry-inspired. Love the idea of having casual shoes to run around DC in. Chose to go with the 7.5 size. Even though style is great, sometimes comfort wins out. Absolutely love these shoes.

TruOrleans

Hurricane - Level 2

Went to a pretty awesome place in Washington, DC last night. A place called - TruOrleans. Amazing. How did I not know about this hidden gem in the city?

Split a drink there with my friend, Ashley. We got a hurricane - only level 2. Yes, there are LEVELS.

It was pretty good. Definitely want to go back. Cannot even imagine how nice it will be - when we actually can sit outside in the spring! They have bottomless mimosas on Sundays for $8 from 11am - 2pm.

Very nice.

Visit the Website here

Gluten Free Cookies

Today - I am going to BAKE! We are having an office party tomorrow and everyone has to bring a goodie. I'm making some gluten free chocolate chip cookies (this mix is pure heaven - they taste amazing). Also am going to add some orange/fall sprinkles to spice up the batch of cookies. That way they will look festive and utterly irresistible.

Dog Snuggie

Click HERE to order your Dog Snuggie today!

Thaiphoon

Ate at this little restaurant in DC last night. Don't you just love the colors on the wall? Did not get to sit in one of the booths - but, it was a great experience anyway.

Met with Iranian Freedom Fighters - ordered appetizers and a main dish of Ginger Chicken. It was fantastic - complete with mushrooms and chunks of ginger.

My Little Begger

Pretty much the norm - every morning - waiting for me to throw him his ball! Then he runs and fetches it. Repeat!

Fall Chocolate Covered Marshmallows

OK - So, I am not a baker. But, am going to a BRUNCH tomorrow on the Hill. Have to bring a dish - found this idea online on Pinterest (the best website ever).

What do you think? Fall Chocolate Covered Marshmallows? Don't mind if I do...

Don't worry - already ate one. They are pretty delightful.

Halloween Costume

I'd say someone is ready for Trick-or-Treating?!

Little Jester Collar - From My Mom

Jalapeno Poppers

Made these little delicious babies tonight! Jalapeno poppers are my absolute favorite dinner. Just the right mixture of spices - not to mention the pepper revs the metabolism and punches up the weight loss process.

The recipe is pretty simple: 

*4-6 jalapenos (slice in half) 

Stuffing Mix: 

* Low-fat cream cheese 

*Cumin

*Chili powder

*Garlic Powder 

*Shredded Cheese

Mix the ingredients (stuffing mix) in a bowl and spread inside the jalapenos. Bake on 450 - until golden brown.

Free Wine

One of the great things about being a girl – is the opportunity to get free stuff from men. My friend, Kristen and I decided to go out to DuPont for a much needed girl’s night. Little did we know we would be sipping on tasty, red FREE wine. Needless to say, our waiter was the BEST. Think we will be visiting again shortly. 

"Wine is the most civilized thing in the world." - Ernest Hemingway.

iPhone Teaching

Teaching my Dad How to Work an iPhone

Love This

Dad in DC

Last night, a little piece of my Texas heart was in DC. After a weeklong business trip, my dad drove to DC – several hours away - to have dinner with his daughter. Have not seen him since July – so this was a real treat to hug my teddy bear of a father and spend the night laughing and talking with him about work and life. We ate dinner at a unique, urban restaurant in DC. The atmosphere was nice inside. He ordered us a bottle of Pinot Giorgio and an appetizer of steamed clams. 

Picnic in the Park

More Ralph Lauren Quilts, Click Here!

Went on a picnic yesterday – right outside the Capitol. It was cool; however, it looks like fall – orange leaves on the ground, does not quite feel like it yet. Seems like the weather has been fluctuating. I’m simply waiting for the crisp breeze to smell like burnt embers and baked pumpkin seeds! 

Even though the weather was not ideal, the picnic, view and company were amazing. Fixed chicken salad, sliced tomatoes and deviled eggs.  Dessert was strawberries and whipped cream – with a Hershey’s dark chocolate piece – dotted on top of the whipped cream mound. Brought wine – complete with little clear plastic cups. Also, got to use my Ralph Lauren quilt (pictured above)– it’s one of my favorites. 

If you have not had the chance to have a picnic this year – it’s definitely a requirement. Get out – throw a blanket on the ground, gaze at the stars and dine with someone you care about outside in nature. It’s exhilarating. Believe me. 

Running on the Sidewalk

I went running yesterday. I know, shocked me too. Was walking Dallas through the neighborhood and started running with him – because the music pumped me up. (Key – the type of music you listen to is REALLY important for motivation.) Dallas is pretty good at running for a little Cocker Spaniel – although, after we had run a few blocks – knew he was ready to retire.

Want my Legs to Look Like This!

 However, the music was still motivating my body to amp it up. Set my watch for 30 minutes – and ran on and off the entire time. My legs feel awesome today. Not to mention, I did about 30 minutes of yoga yesterday after the run. (Thank goodness – can still do the splits.) 

I think I’m going to run again today. One step at a time! 

"Anybody can be a runner. We were meant to move. We were meant to run. It's the easiest sport."

- Bill Rodgers

Tyco Quints

While browsing through Pinterest this morning, stumbled across this picture. If you grew up in the 90’s – as I did – and were a little girl – you will know EXACTLY what this is a picture of – Quints! 

Read about the Quints

I can vividly remember this commercial on TV. Inwardly, looking at this picture musters up some nostalgic feelings inside. My sister and I had this toy. As I remember – there were Quints with blonde hair and brown hair. We had a set of each.

The most fantastic thing about this toy – was the massive connected five bottles (one piece). 

The greatest poem ever known, Is one all poets have outgrown: The poetry, innate, untold, Of being only four years old.

- Christopher Morley, To a Child

New Coffee Mug

My NEW Coffee Mug!

It doesn’t take much to get me excited. However, there are two gifts that can brighten my day faster than a swelling sun over a horizon – stationary and coffee mugs.

I know, you may be thinking – who in their right mind would pick such a combination. Me – that’s who – can’t shake the writer within me. Thursday night, I attended a Real Clear Politics reception on the Hill. Let me tell you, it was amazing. Food, wine, candy, Georgetown Cupcakes and little goody bags! The “party favors” were stuffed with red and black themed prizes – namely a new coffee mug and a writing tablet!

Just a little example of the goodness of Georgetown Cupcakes. They did not have Gluten Free at the event, but that's a minor detail. Haha.

Sipping coffee from my new mug this morning. It’s around 8:30am on a Saturday – got my pajamas on – looking out to a spectacular view of the Washington Monument and a little furry one is resting on my legs.

My tired puppy - Dallas

Life is sweet and God is good. He’s so gracious. It’s times like these that I think about how he blesses his beloved and I am truly humbled to see and feel his face shine upon me. So – want to thank him for his provision and guidance. His light makes the world a beautiful place. And, his joy enables me to love others with such a full heart. Love Saturdays.

One of my Pinterest finds! Amen.

 

Brown Boot Day

Love that two of my co-workers have the exact same boots as I do. Love Friday's at work - casual clothes. Well, not too casual - jeans, nice blouse and boots.

Cannot wait for the weekend. Girls night tonight. And, seeing "The Ides of March" Saturday night. Then - Columbus Day on Monday. Three day weekend.

Angels in Adoption

Last night – I went to a beautiful gala for the organization Angels in Adoption. After work, a co-worker of mine and I headed over to the Ronald Reagan Building for the event. Never been an advocate for adoption really in my life, but after hearing the moving stories of foster children being loved and adopted by relative strangers, it made me think differently of the process.

These are just regular people – dealing with infertility issues or regular people sensing that their care is needed in a child’s life - and that's incredible.

Snapshot of the Gala

The Wednesday’s Child Program described it really well when they told a story of a lady watching the program in DC –who looked at a child on the TV screen and stated, “That’s my child!” – an instant connection was recognized. 

We sat at a table with some people from Buckner International – which is also another great group of people. They do the program – Shoes for Orphan Souls – which I am absolutely in love with. (They are actually hosting their first barefoot run this year in Coppell, Texas!)

Beautiful Place Setting

It surprised me; but - Laura Ingraham was the MC for the night. Typically, just a conservative commentator, she set aside her advocating of the right and simply talked about what it means to be an adoptive parent. She has adopted three kids of her own – all from Guatemala. 

Overall, thought it was a great experience. I will never look at adoption the same again. I truly believe that God places a special love in certain hearts – to look after those born in to this work without a loving, supporting home. And, he equips them with everything they need to be that rooftop and house of love for ‘the least of these.’ 

Makes me think of this song by Third Day - "Children of God:"

Dinner for 5 - Yes, Please

My DC Apartment

Just wanted to share this photo - taken July 4th from my apartment. My family was in town from the Lone Star State, and this was our meal. As you can see - had to add one more chair to the mix. But, all in all, think this table setting looked grand.

Glasses awaiting Sangria!

 And - what night would be complete without Sangria! Arranged the wine glasses along my windowsill in the kitchen for an artistic effect! What an awesome family affair. 

Sometimes this big haired, southern girl loves city living - so urban, so chic, so cosmopolitan!

Living Social Yoga

Bought a great deal online the other day at work - 20 yoga classes for $20! I know, almost hard to believe - seeing that yoga classes at studios are generally $17 a class. Anyway, after a long absence from studio yoga, met my friend Theresa yesterday for a much needed stress relieving class. It was great - dozens of people packed in a row-house studio with purple walls - fogging up the windows. My body feels awesome this morning - something about yoga makes you feel sexy. It creates an awareness of your muscles and just the beauty of the body in general. If you have not tried yoga or have fallen out of practice, I would highly recommend it - especially for people with stressful jobs. It reminds me to breathe, lengthen my body and drink in the present moment.

Welcome Fall

Took a little trip to the craft store in Virginia yesterday…because really, it can’t be fall without a homemade fall wreath. Purchased a plain wreath, some festive ribbon and an assortment of inexpensive buttons. After a little bow tying and some hot glue action – this (picture above) was the final masterpiece. 

Now – I am ready for fall.  

Delicious autumn!  My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.  - George Eliot

 

Southern Belles

Southern Belle Barbie

I fell in LOVE with this article in Garden and Gun yesterday. A friend of mine sent this to me – via gchat of all things. He is from CA and has always raved about Southern women. After reading this little piece, I am more than proud to call myself a Southern Belle. To a T this is how my Mama raised me. 

“…being Southern means handwritten thank-you notes, using a rhino horn’s worth of salt in every recipe, and spending a minimum of twenty minutes a day in front of her makeup mirror so she can examine her beauty in “office,” “outdoor,” and “evening” illumination. It also means never leaving the house with wet hair. Not even in the case of fire. Because wet hair is low-rent. It shows you don’t care, and not caring is not something Southern women do, at least when it comes to our hair.” 

Read the FULL article here: Garden and Gun

What a Combo - Saturday in October

BOO- it's the first day of October. Now, I really think fall is upon us. LOVE this weather - sweaters, hot tea, crackling fires and brisk wind. Click here for the ultimate picture of fall. I just want to jump in that picture - and twirl in a dress with my arms open wide!

It’s also SATURDAY. Love the weekends. Get to relax and actually collect my *personal* thoughts. The weekdays are devoted to work – press, writing on point/message and scheduling interviews. The weekends are devoted to me. This morning Dallas and I went on a little walk around the Capitol Hill neighborhood (we woke up at 10am – usually do not sleep this late). It’s now raining like cats and dogs outside and FREEZING. However, we managed to escape the ice cold drops – before it got too bad.

(Photo of Dallas taken right before it poured on us).

My Walk in Photos

I am convinced beyond a shadow of any doubt that the most valuable pursuit we can embark upon is to know God. - Kay Arthur