A War Eagle Moment

I remember the first "War Eagle" moment, I ever received. Soon after graduating from high school, I was at Quail Springs Mall in Oklahoma City, parked right outside the Dillards women's entrance. (It is where I always parked.) When I was walking out of the mall, about to get into my car, I noticed a piece of paper, attached to my windshield. When I went to get it off of my windshield, this is what I found:

I can not even begin to tell you how excited this made me feel. At this moment, I realized that I had made the right decision. Even though Auburn was so far from home (Which is what I wanted - Sorry, Fancy), I knew that Auburn was going to provide the "home" and "family" environment I needed 810 miles away. And then to know that my Auburn family was all around, well, that was a plus too!

Yesterday, I was walking out of the Hill Center, in Nashville, TN, when I saw this vehicle right in front of me. All of the emotions surrounding the decision I made, and leaving for college hit me like a ton of bricks. (It is crazy to think that it has been 9 years!)  I LOVE the excitement this student has for Auburn, and hope they enjoy college as much as I did. I am so thankful for the love and support of my Auburn family, and owe them the world for the person I have become today. Love you all!

(It needs to be noted that ALL of the windows were painted, 

including the driver's side which said, "Class of 2015!")

Craft Time - Velvet Bookmarks

Over a month ago, I posted a picture of supplies that were soon to become the 

beginning of a new craft project. Unfortunately, it took longer than expected, as I had 

to wait on the key component, the ribbon clamps. Anyhoo, today, I am pleased to share with you the outcome - Velvet Bookmarks. If you would like a new bookmark, let me know, and I will be happy to send you one.

The Supplies

The Inspiration

The End Result

One With Nature

I will tell you one thing right now, nothing makes me feel more like "one with nature," than spending some time in my friend's backyard. This morning, I stopped by for a quick glance at the tomatoes and to say hello. Little did I know, that there was more waiting for me than I expected...

The Pink Girls are getting so big!

We have blooms!

The 13 year cicadas have arrived! Once they come out of the ground, 

they leave their shells behind.

The cicadas like the tomatoes as well, luckily, they can't hurt them.

Baby Birds - They will be leaving their nest soon.

(I love Bea and Ellie standing in the background.)

Robins Egg - The mom should be laying a few more eggs before the week is over.

Happy Birthday To Me! (And my sister too.)

Yesterday was my Birthday. (And my sister's too.) I had one of the best Birthday's I have had in a while, and am truly blessed by all the family and friends I have, who have loved, encouraged and supported me through the past 27 years. Thank you for ALL you do; I am one lucky girl!

Yesterday morning, Fancy sent me an email with the the picture below:

"On the way to the hospital, May 17, 1984!"

What an AMAZING woman!

Me, Fancy and Bailey

(I must admit - I did not recognize myself the first time around)

Countdown to 28: 364 days to go!

Microwave Peanut Brittle

This past week, a High School in Georgia sent a gift box to our office. The box was filled with various items from the State, including several bags of peanuts. On the back of the peanut bags were two recipes for peanut brittle, a stove top version and a microwave oven version. I told everyone that if the peanuts were still there on Friday, I would make it my mission this weekend to make peanut brittle for the very first time. 
Well, the peanuts were still there...

Challenge accepted.

(Since I do not have a candy thermometer, I chose to attempt the microwave recipe)

Microwave Oven Peanut Brittle


1 1/2 cups raw shelled peanuts, skins on               
1 cup granulated sugar                                           
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda


Stir together peanuts, sugar, syrup, and salt in a 1 1/2 quart microwave safe container. Cook 8 minutes on high in microwave oven stirring well after 4 minutes. Stir in butter and vanilla. Microwave 2 minutes longer on high. (cooking time may vary with microwave) Add baking soda and quickly stir until light and foamy. Immediately pour onto lightly greased baking sheet; spread to 1/4 inch thickness. When cool break into pieces. Store in airtight container. Yields about 1 pound

End Result - Absolutely delicious, if I say so myself. And, quite

possibly one of the easiest things I have ever done!

Five Years Later

Today, marks my 5 year Anniversary of Living in Nashville, TN. I can not believe how fast the time has flown by! It is amazing to think, that I have now been out of college, longer than I was there. During my time in Nashville, I have gained some amazing new friends, experienced endless laughter and truly learned the purpose of life. I am one lucky girl.

Here is a brief re-cap of my last 5 years:

Graduation Night - May 11, 2006.

I then said "Good Bye" to Auburn, AL...

...and, "Hello" Nashville, TN!

I introduced a new man into my life - Oliver

I baked a few Chocolate Cakes.

I spent two and a half years becoming acquainted with the City.

And I finally learned what makes me happy in life, and at the same time was 

given the opportunity to earn my Master's Degree.

Here is to the next 5 years!!!

Weekend in Review

I was very fortunate this weekend to have a side kick! - Miss Chloe B.

 I got an "A" in my second glass in Graduate School.

I know, I am gifted! 20% COMPLETE!

The Pink Girls have a new home; in the ground, that is.

I received a wonderful gift from my friend, Leigh Ann. If you have yet to visit her Etsy store, you must do it now! Sweet Auburn Studio

I am a sucker for a good Romantic Comedy!

And finally, I made a trip to David's Bridal, where I signed my life away. My signature was placed on multiple documents declaring that if I gain weight and the dress does not fit, that is my responsibility, not the stores. ALL SALES ARE FINAL!

 Countdown to Jenna's wedding - 103 Days!

Happy Mother's Day!

Over the years, i have given my mom various nicknames. When she was going through menopause, my sister and I lovingly called her "Flash," (Boy am I glad that time in her life has passed!) During the holiday's, mom was often seen with glitter on her face, as she eagerly immersed herself in creating the ideal Christmas environment, which prompted to a fairly recent nickname, "Sparkle." And finally, 'Fancy." (My favorite of all!) Have you heard of the children's book series Fancy Nancy? Recently, a young girl was introduced to my mother, and instead of calling her Nancy, chose Fancy. When my mother clearly stated that her name was Nancy, the little girl replied, "I know, Fancy Nancy!" Therefore, the name as stuck with me as well. 


Today, when my mom wakes up, the banners picture above will be strung throughout the house. (Courtesy of Ed). But, I must admit, out of all the names that I have ever called her, "Mom" will always remain the best title of all. Happy Mother's Day Mom, I love you!

Run Jenna, Run!

The Country Music Marathon and 1/2 Marathon  is one of my favorite events held each year in Nashville. I have never participated, nor do I have any interest in doing so, but I sure do love to watch. With a morning cocktail in hand, I love to cheer on those who pass by, and sometimes even cry.  Yes, I said cry. There is something about the first woman who passes by and the men in wheel chairs, that gets to me every time. This year, the race was held on a day I had class, so unfortunately, I was not able to have a drink in hand, but I was able to cheer on a few runners as I walked to class. I am so lucky that as I was just about to walk into class, I was able to cheer for my friend Jenna as she approached the 5 mile mark.

CONGRATULATIONS Jenna, I am SO proud of you!

Feliz Cinco de Mayo

To some of you, this may be a Christmas Tree, but to others, this is a FIESTA TREE! Yes, this is currently on display in my living room; and yes, that is a mini pinata on top of the tree; and no, it has not been up since Christmas! 

This past Christmas, Fancy had the inspiration to begin collecting ornaments and decorations for a Fiesta themed tree. Me, being her daughter, and wanting to be like her, I decided that I needed to have a Fiesta tree as well. 

 FELIZ CINCO DE MAYO!!!

(A big GRACIAS to Fancy for making my tree possible!)