Go Fourth and Craft...

I love the Fourth of July.  I've always loved it.  I'm sure as a kid, it had more to do with it falling so near my birthday. {I grew up thinking the fireworks were for me.} Now, I love it because I love my country!  I'm a red-blooded American, and so, so proud to call this place home.  I love me some red, white and blue!

I had intentions of getting a crafty tutorial up for the Fourth, but time got away from me, and it's just not going to happen.  So, I figured I'd do the next best thing, and share some fun and simple ideas in case you have the itch to create something this weekend! 

How about a ruffly flag wreath?  via Busy Lizzy's

       

Some flying rockets?  via Alphamom

Fabric Star Medallions?  via Martha

And last, but certainly not least,  how about some insanely cute printables via The Sweetest Occasion?

A little something for everyone, I think.

Tell me, are you as patriotic to your country as I am?  {American or otherwise.}
If you are American, where did your ancestors come from?  Mine are mostly from Germany, some French, some English and a little Native American for good measure. 
If you're not American, what country are you from?

p.s. Speaking of Fourths...Today is Miss Ava's 4th birthday!  Happy Birthday, sweetheart!  I hope you have a wonderful day!  I'll be sending something special home with your mama next week!  XOXO Auntie Jen

My thumbs are turning green...

When we lived in our old house, I never planted flowers.  The first year we lived in this one, still nothing.  {We moved in late May, so I guess I thought it was too late.}  Last year, my mom came over and helped me plant.  I didn't have a clue as to what to get or how to take care of them.  Turns out it's quite simple.  You just pick what you like, make sure it's in a spot to get it's prescribed sun, and water! 

I think I'm doing my mama proud this year.  I heart flowers.



I love geraniums, and I think I got the best ones this year!  {Tip:  I bought two hanging baskets from Lowe's that each had 3 plants in them.  I split them up throughout my pots, and saved about 20 bucks in the process.}  They have gone absolutely berserk!  They've pretty much taken over and choked out everything else, but hey, I'm not hating all the pretty flowers. 



My "HOPE' crock, a gift from my in-laws, and my copper watering can, a gift from my Dad and Linda.  You can't see it in the picture, but there's also an old well bucket on the bottom step from a yard sale trip with my mom.  Little pieces of the people I love. 



We have two of these planters that Jon dragged home from a house he was working on.  {They were destined for the trash!}  I love, love, love them.  The cracks and chippy paint make them all the more beautiful if you ask me.



I can't take credit for planting this one, but the rose of Sharon just started blooming on Sunday, and I'm so happy to see these pretty pink and purple flowers popping out all over the place.  Jon says we need to trim it back, and we probably will this fall, but I love it big.  Just means more flowers!



Pictures of last years flowers.

Do you plant flowers?  What are your favorites?

p.s. Vinca vine makes me happy.

A few fun finds...{Recipes}

For whatever reason {working out 28 days in a row maybe?} I'm starving this week!  Since my mind's been on food, I wanted to share some recipes that have caught my eye recently. 

Refrigerator Dill Pickles via One Perfect Bite

My dad and his sweetheart have been enjoying pickled cucumbers lately. {which I've had the pleasure of partaking in, and they are delish}  I'll be trying this variation this weekend.   I <3 dill pickles!

Grapefruit Margarita via LA Times

This makes my mouth water just looking at it. How refreshing!  Plus, it's pink.  Who doesn't love a pink cocktail?

Baked Southwestern Egg Rolls via Annie Eats

These look delicious, and would be the perfect accompaniment to  my new favorite salsa of all time:

Homemade Salsa by Iowa Girl Eats

Made with a can of diced tomatos instead of romas, plus two cloves of garlic.  Seriously guys, best salsa EVAH!

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I am linking up to Yes, Teacher's Tickle me Tuesday post. Hop over and check out the other great finds!

What are you craving lately?  Also, sweet or dill pickles...or neither?

I've been wanting to devour everything in site the last couple days, especially meat, but not limited to above salsa, homemade ice cream and asian snack mix.  {And no, I'm not preggers.}

 

I'm a dill pickle girl all the way.  Sweet pickles make me gag.

Just wanted to tell you, and Catching Fireflies Giveaway Winner...

         Source: simplicityphotography.com via jennifer on Pinterest

Just wanted to tell you:

I only have 4 more days of my 31 before 31 challenge...and I haven't missed one day! {Hooray!}

I was craving bbq ribs so bad this weekend, and I finally got my fix yesterday.  {perhaps my body is wanting protein from all the running?}

My rose of sharon bush started blooming yesterday and I'm so excited for all the lavendar flowers that are about to pop out.  {I went to take a picture for you this morning, but my camera battery was dead....of course.  Why does that always happen?}

And....I might have dreampt it,  {is that really a word, dreampt?  It doesn't have a little red squiggle under it, so I'm gonna roll with it.}  but I'm pretty sure I somehow was on the browser on my completely un-smart phone this morning in my sleep. I better not get charged for that.

Now, for the actual reason you all are reading this.  Catching Fireflies will be sending one of you a set of four Aromatherapy Shower Bursts.  Who's it gonna be?

 

Congratulations Elizabeth!  I'll be emailing you shortly to get your mailing address! 

Anything you all want to tell me?  Do anything fun over the weekend?  Have anything to lament this fine Monday morning?  Perhaps you're really excited about next weekend?  What's up?

A pretty bicycle picture and random thoughts from the week....

                 Source: stardustandsequins.wordpress.com via jennifer on Pinterest

I miss those "Real Men of Genious" commercials by Bud Light.  "Mr. Giant Taco Salad Inventor" is my favorite.  "I don't see no lettuce."  Ha!




I really, really dislike when people send passive aggressive emails under the guise of a "friendly reminder". All caps is not friendly, sorry.  I just realized that that statement of mine, was in fact, a little passive aggressive, and well, passive aggressivism sucks.

Me:  I think when someone learning English hears the phrase "Old Wives Tale" for the first time, they must think that sounds pretty weird.
Jon:  Yeah, they must be like, "Since when do old wives have tails?"

When I'm laying in bed with the windows open and hear someone doing something outside {walking by, talking, getting in a car, whatever.}  I have to get up and see who it is.  Yes, I'm that little old lady in training. 


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Ahhhhhh.  We made it!  It's Friday, and I'm so, so happy.  It's been a busy week at work, and I'm ready for a couple of days to relax!

This weekend is actually pretty open.  No big plans like the last few weeks, and I'm thrilled.  Sometimes you just need a weekend to do whatever comes about, you know?

One thing I am determined to do is go on a bike ride.  I haven't gotten out on my bicycle nearly enough this summer and it's driving me crazy! 

Are your weekends usually full of activities, or relaxation? 

In case you missed it:
Make sure you enter the giveaway!  Winner will be announced on Monday.
Some pretty leather goods.
How to set up your profile so bloggers can respond to your comments.
*New* in the shop:  Wedding Party Frames.

*New* Wedding party picture frames...

I recently did some frames for a sweet bride that turned out so cute, I just had to add them to the shop!  This has been one of my favorite projects lately.  {And that's saying alot, cause I've had some pretty fun ones in the last few weeks.  More *New* posts to come!}  I matched her dresses, and suits and all the flowers she's using for the ceremony.  I absolutely love creating something so unique and special for my customers.  It's why I love what I do!

Bride & Groom • Maid of Honor and Groomsman • Flower Girl • Ring Bearer

I love all the bright colors Jenny is using in her wedding.  {Did you notice she's getting married on my birthday?}  

What colors did you/will you use in your own wedding?  

We had shades of green with lots of gold and silver.  Pictures from our wedding day can be found here.

How to set up your profile to receive replys to your comments via email....

I fear this might be kind of basic.  Although, I wasn't aware of it until a couple of weeks ago, and considering the number of comments I get without a way to respond by email, I'm guessing I wasn't the only one in the dark.

Did you know you can set up your profile to allow for email reply's to your comments?  It's super easy, and makes commenting so much more fun!  I've been amazed at how many sweet responses I've gotten from bloggers since updating this feature in my own profile.  Responses I probably wasn't getting before because they didn't have a way to contact me directly without going on a hunt.

From your Dashboard, go to "Edit Profile".  You'll want to make sure "Show my email address" is checked and that you've filled in the "Email Address" field under Identity.



It's that easy!  If you have any questions at all, just ask. 


Tell me, am I the only one who didn't know about this?  Do you have your profile set up so you can receive replys?

p.s. Don't forget to enter the giveaway from Catching Fireflies! 

A few fun finds {Leather}...

Braided Leather Bracelets by Flourishleather on Etsy
I've been drooling over Danielle's braided bracelets ever since she opened her shop.  Seriously, at $5 a piece, what the heck am I waiting for?

Mad Maxine Mixed Stud Shoes by karenkell on Etsy

How cool are these!?  If I had money to burn, I would totally rock these kicks. 

Mini Ruche Bag in Two Tone Red Leather by JennyNDesign on Etsy

I've been a fan of Jenny's work for a long time, and think everything she makes is way cool.  This pretty red bag is no exception.

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I am linking up to Yes, Teacher's Tickle me Tuesday post. Hop over and check out the other great finds!

What is the most you've ever spent on a pair of shoes?

I honestly don't think I've ever spent over about $60 on a pair, and that was a loooong time ago.  Any more expensive than that I was given as a gift.  {like my Ugg slippers.}

Pssst.....Make sure you stop over and enter this weeks giveaway!

***p.s. I just hopped over to link up my post, and saw that Sarah posted my Audrey Hepburn Chalkboard in her links!  :)  Made my day!

Catching Fireflies Giveaway...

Good morning!  How is everyone today?  I'm exhausted from a full weekend.  We had Fathers Day celebrations Saturday and Sunday complete with water skiing, burgers, pickled cucumbers, more burgers, three rum gimlets a banana cream pie and an ice cream cake.  OMG.  Feeling a little overindulged and tired!  There were also some pretty adorable ducklings at the farm too...I have video I'll share later this week.  ;)

I've noticed lots of new faces around these parts recently.  Just wanted to take a moment to welcome you all!  Looking forward to getting to know you.

I have more planned for this week than I can possibly fit in, so why not just kick off the week with the good stuff?  How about a giveaway!?

Up for grabs today is a set of four Aromatherapy Shower Bursts courtesy Catching Fireflies!
{Remember the adorable snail tape dispenser from a couple weeks ago?  That's from their shop too!}

These bursts are one of their most popular items, and make for a great in-home summer spa treatment.  Sounds pretty amazing, huh?

***This giveaway is now closed.****

A pretty bicycle picture and random thoughts from the week....

              Source: papillionaire.com.au via jennifer on Pinterest

I love mornings where I see 6 people out running within a quarter of a mile span.

I have a spot on the inner part of my elbow, where I had some blood work done 3 weeks ago, that has been itchy ever since.  Weird?

The Christmas stuff is going up at Hobby Lobby, the fall stuff is already out.  It's not even the 4th of July yet!  WTF?

Every single morning when my alarm goes off at 5:00 to workout, I think to myself, "you are freaking out of your mind." I'm just glad I'm choosing to ignore that voice. That voice sucks. 14 days to go to reach my 31 day goal!  Holla!

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It's Friiiiiiidaaaaaay!  And, It's thunderstormy...seems like a trend for my afternoons off.  Eh, at least I have an afternoon off, right?

I was prepped to get up early and run, but the thunder and pitter patter of rain lulled me back to sleep.  I'll have to get my run in when I get home at noon.  So far so good on the 31 day challenge.  Haven't missed a single day!  I really think it's easier when you do it every day.  Then there's no talking yourself out of it.

This week has been a good one.  Jon accepted a new job, and we're excited for the possibilities it will bring.  I'm so proud of him and so happy to see him so excited.

Looking forward to spending some time with our dads on Sunday.  We are absolutely blessed to have great fathers who love us both so much!

Have a wonderful weekend, friends!

What are your plans for the weekend? 
Is anyone actually planning fall or holiday decor yet, or is Hobby Lobby just dreaming?

In case you missed it:
Hear about my new love of  punching something.
A few fun finds.
Let's get to know each other!
See what I think of SodaStream, and watch me in action!

Sodastream Review...

A while back, the nice people at Sodastream sent me one of their Jet soda makers to review, along with a ton of syrups.  I was absolutely blown away with their generosity and cannot even describe how excited I was to try it out.





Now, in all honesty, I'm not a big soda drinker.  However, I do enjoy a bubbly drink on occasion.  Jon doesn't drink as much soda as he used to {There was a time he was downing a 12 pack of Mountain Dew every day and a half.} but he has at least a glass or two a day.

We usually buy two liters, haul them home, store them, and then recycle the empties.  What I love about Sodastream, is that all of that is eliminated.  There's no buying bulky two liters, and the waste is dramatically decreased.  {One bottle of syrup makes 12 liters!}  Plus, they're variety of flavors really does offer something for everyone.  Diet Soda, Cream Soda, Energy Drinks....Diet Peach Iced Tea, Orange Mango, Root Beer!  For real, they have every flavor you could possibly want.

They also have MyWater Flavor Essences that add just a touch of flavor to a glass of water, sparkling or not, which is straight up my alley.  I love me some H2O!


But, it's probably a pain to make, right?  Absolutely not!  It's super easy!  I thought the best way to show you how easy it is, would be to actually show you!  So, I'd like to present to you the first video of me to grace this blog.  {sure, I felt a little awkward, but you guys gotta see how easy this is!}




If you're a soda drinker, I highly recommend this product.  It's easy, convenient, and saves time and money.  What more could you ask for?

You can find Sodastream makers and products online and at many popular retailers such as Macy's, Kohl's, Sears, Bed Bath and Beyond, among many more.  Check out the where to buy section of their website to find a retailer near you!

Tell me, what's your favorite flavor of soda?  
Aaaaaand, do you say soda or pop?  I think I say both at different times. 

In the interest of full disclosure, as stated above, I received product from this company in exchange for a review.  
That being said, all opinions are my own.  I'd never lie to you, my friends.

Getting to know you...

                                      Source: imgfave.com via jennifer on Pinterest

No joke.

It's been a while since I've done a "Getting to know you Wednesday". Here's how it works: I post some fun/random questions for you all in a nice Google form. You also have a chance to ask me whatever you like. I'll answer your questions in upcoming posts.


This will not only help me get to know you all, but it'll help me give you more of what you like here on this little blog.  Plus....it's fun!  And, if you don't like fun, then just scurry along.  No need to dilly dally.

{just so you know, I'll never sell any of the info you provide or use it for anything annoying...I promise! It's purely for me to get to know you!}

A few fun finds....

T.Hanks card by Blue Barnhouse

Do I even need to explain why this is awesome?  

 

Naughty but Nice tea towel by Charlotte Farmer via To Dry For

So cute!  The only problem would be it'd make me want dessert all the time.

{pssst....That To Dry For site looks pretty amazing.  It has me dreaming of all sorts of pretty tea towels!}

Blogging Organization Printables by Draw! Pilgrim via My Girl Thursday

I seriously need to download these and get my organizing on!  Follow the link above to get your {free} download too!

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I am linking up to Yes, Teacher's Tickle me Tuesday post. Hop over and check out the other great finds!

Bloggy friends, tell me, do you plan your posts ahead of time, or just wing it the day of? 

I plan some things, but usually I'm winging it.  I would love to get more organized in that aspect! 

Speaking of planning things, I have some fun giveaways coming up soon!  Stay tuned!

Knockout!

                                            Source: ffffound.com via jennifer on Pinterest

A while back, I was given another chance to review CSN Stores. After stumbling through their GIGANTIC stock, I finally decided on some boxing gloves and pads.  Seems a little random, no?  I think it was inspired by the new trainers on the Biggest Loser, and their focus on boxing.

Anyway, yesterday we finally gave them a go!  Let me tell you, it was so much fun!  It's pretty amazing how great punching something feels, and holy cow, it's a great workout!  I had sweat dripping off of me I'm sure I looked as elegant as the girl in the poster above.  :)

I started by running a mile on the treadmill, then we boxed for about 15 minutes, and then I ran another mile.  It was nice to break up the running a bit, and add something new! 

This was one of the only workouts Jon and I have ever made it through together without getting in an argument.  Probably because it was perfectly acceptable for me to punch him.  {on the pads, of course.}

I'm definitley feeling sore today, but in a good way!  You know?

31 day challenge:  13 down, 18 to go!

{I can tell I've been exerting a lot more energy than usual.  I pretty much passed out on the couch Friday night {no alcohol involved}.  Jon finally got me to go to bed, poor guy.  I slept like a log.}

Have you ever boxed, or tried any activities out of your usual routine?  Tell me about it!

Another successful experience with CSN Stores.  Seriously guys, they're the real deal. 

Not so random...

                                                 Source: etsy.com via jennifer on Pinterest

I didn't record much randomness this week, and what I did record was really just glorified complaining.  I decided not to put that out in the world.  It's Friday, and I'm sure the last thing you guys need is some negativity poured all over it. 

Instead, I just wanted to tell you all that you rock!  Really, you do.  You are a bright spot in my day, every day, and I'm so thankful for each and every one of you who come visit me in this place.  I'm so blessed to call you my friends!  I hope you all have a glorious weekend planned! 

Today I am remembering my cousin.  Five years ago today she gave her life in an effort to save her friends.  There is no greater love.  {John 15:13}  I cannot believe it's been five years already.  There is so much I could say here, but I'll just say this:  Jessica, I have not forgotten you, and you continue to inspire me to live, to love, and to relish every precious moment of this life, for we are not promised tomorrow.  My only wish is that we had known each other better. 

I have some packages to ship this afternoon and a birthday present to make for a first birthday tomorrow.  It's been ages since I've been to a first birthday party, and this one's gonna be super special cause it centers around some of our favorite peeps.  It's so fun to be a part the lives of our friend's kids. Love those babies!

There will also be an evening lake trip, meeting up with friends, and hopefully some snuggles with my man.  We've had a busy week, and I sorta miss him. 

Thanks again for being so wonderful to me.  You guys really are the best.  

In case you missed it:
Some positive words to live by.
Some fun finds.
Reader's shops linked up!  {You can still link up...please do!}
and...My latest obsession.

Fly away with me...

             Source: flickr.com via jennifer on Pinterest

                                        Source: prettystuff.tumblr.com via jennifer on Pinterest

         Source: None via jennifer on Pinterest

Lately I've been daydreaming of hot air balloons.

I have this sudden fascination, and desire to go up in one. It seems both exhilarating and terrifying all at once. I'm not exactly a fan of heights, and the thought of dangling in a basket that far off the ground sort of gives me the willies. That being said, there's this part of me that still wants the experience. I bet it's beautiful up there, and it seems novel and exciting, not to mention crazy romantic.

Maybe someday.

Yes, someday. Officially added to my bucket list.

Have you ever been in a hot air balloon? Do you have any desire to? 

p.s. Make sure you stop back by yesterday's post and check out all the lovely shops posted!  {And make sure you've added yours if you haven't already!} You all are talented!

Show me what you're working with!

Howdy! {Yes, apparently I'm a cowgirl now.}

My brain seems to be a little fried this morning...anyone else having that problem? Maybe it's cause I've worked out 8 days in a row. Oh, let me tell ya, I so did not want to get out of bed this morning!  But, I've got stuff to do this evening, and I know it would be worse to work it in then.  I couldn't bear the thought of telling you guys I missed a day.  Seriously, that's what was going through my head this morning as I lay groaning at the alarm.  But you'll have to do a post and say, I was too lazy on the 8th...sorry!  Not happening!  Get your booty outta bed, girl.  {Only, I didn't say booty.  My inner Jillian is a potty mouth.}

Anyway, I thought I'd do a little linky-link thing today.  I'd like to see what you all make!  I'm pretty sure a good amount of you are crafters and artists...am I right?   I'd love to check out your shops.  {If you're not a crafter or artist, I bet you enjoy buying pretty things, so this list will help you too!}

So, show me what you're working with!  Link up below to your online store, and I'll come check it out!

For those of you who don't already know, I {we} have a store on Etsy.  We sell various items, all with a little modern twist on time honored favorites.  Personalized Piggy Banks, Sock Monkeys, Sihouette Chalkboards, etc....come visit!

A few fun finds...

A little whimsy for your Tuesday...

 

 Snail Tape Dispenser via Catching Fireflies I need this little snail tape dispenser in my life!  Wouldn't he just brighten up your desk?

Handsoap set via Foliage on EtsyDo I really need to explain this one?  I mean, seriously.  These are freakin' hilarious!

Circo de Blanco ring by Oldgold Boutique

I love the circus, don't you?  If only I had dainty fingers, I could take the big top with me with this ring.  {Fits size 6.5}

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I am linking up to Yes, Teacher's Tickle me Tuesday post.  Hop over and check out the other great finds!

Tell me, if you were to run off and join the circus, what would you want to be?  Lion tamer? Clown?  Fire Eater?  

I think I'd be an acrobat.  Cause in this fantasy world of me joining the circus, I wouldn't be afraid of heights, right?  I think I'd enjoy swinging through the air and wearing sequined leotards.  :)

Words to live by...

                                                        Source: weheartit.com via jennifer on Pinterest

                                Source: karynicolexoxo.tumblr.com via jennifer on Pinterest

                                                 Source: wipkits.blogspot.com via jennifer on Pinterest

I've learned over the years that the mind is a powerful thing. I believe with all my heart that a positive attitude can make all the difference in the world.  I'm working on letting this knowledge seep into every part of my life, cause it makes everything awesome.  I do think I'm a pessimist by nature.  {Maybe that's just me being pessimistic.}  However, I also believe I can choose to be optimistic.  I can choose to be happy. 

And so can you.


What are you doing to choose happiness? Are you a natural optimist or pessimist?


In other news, my 31 before 31 challenge is going fantastic!  I'm actually finding it quite liberating to have it already decided and planned.  There's no talking myself out of it every day.  I know I have to get a run in, so I just schedule it into my day.  6 days down, 25 to go! 

A pretty bicycle picture and random thoughts from the week....

                   Source: stardustandsequins.wordpress.com via jennifer on Pinterest

I really hate it when slide shows are low on a page and every time you click next, you also have to scroll down. Annoying!

I wish they made 1/6 cup measuring cups. That would really help me measure my cats' food correctly. {1/2 cup a day divided by 3 feedings.} ---sorry this one is laaaaame, but hey, that's how my brain works, kids.

I feel like a whole lot of the blogs in my reader have stopped posting.  What up?

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My random thoughts today read more like a list of complaints.....whoopsies!

Thanks for all your support on my 31 before 31 challenge.  I have two days in the books.  I could not drag my lazy butt out of bed this morning to run, so I'll have to do it later today.  {hopefully when I get home at noon....although, it's supposed to be hot today, so it might be another treadmill run for me.}

Anyway, I have every intention of completing this.

When that little voice starts trying to say, "Eh, it'll be okay if you don't do it today."  I'm gonna say, "listen here, little voice, it's already been decided.  Too bad you weren't here to discuss it before the decision was made.  Maybe next month."

Yeah, that totally  makes me sound skitzo.  Voices in my head.  But it's derived from what I learned from this book, which is awesome, by the way.

My dad gave me a really nice compliment last night.  He was telling me that he saw my challenge on the blog.  {he's a daily reader...Hi Dad!}  He said, "Well, if anyone can do it, you can.  You have more will power than anyone else I know."  I'm not sure if that was his nice way of calling me bullheaded, but I took it as a compliment.  Thanks Dad.

I'm not gonna let you guys down!

Wow, I'm rambly today.  I'm so glad it's the weekend again!  How about you?

No real plans for the weekend.  Hope to get together with my baby sister to celebrate her birthday, maybe have a driveway party with the neighbors {and some beers}, and hopefully do some relaxing.

What's on your agenda for the weekend? 

Madi is 14!

Today is my baby, baby sister's birthday.  She's eight 14.  I swear, I feel like she should still be in third grade, but she'll be in high school this fall!  

Isn't she pretty?

She's a rockin' soccer player,

Justin Beiber fanatic,

Loves all things bright and colorful,

and is sort of hilarious. 

I love her.

Sometimes I feel like I don't know her very well, cause let's face it, she's a super cool teen, and I'm officially an old lady.  One thing I do know is that she'll always be my baby sister, and for that, I'm so proud.

Happy Birthday, Miss Madi!

31 before 31...

                       Source: lysswunsch.tumblr.com via jennifer on Pinterest

Yesterday afternoon, I was conversing with this lovely lady about the completion of her 30 day Bikram Yoga Challenge.  {Doesn't that rock!?}

That got me thinking...Maybe I should do a thirty day challenge.  I mean, I've been struggling a bit to get back on the running horse ever since my 1/2 marathon.  Maybe I could challenge myself to run for 30 days?

Then, it occured to me that it was June 1st.  That means my birthday is 31 days from yesterday.  And, it's my 31st birthday.  And yesterday was National Running Day.

Ummm, yeah.  How could I not do this?

So, I went home and ran on the treadmill.  {We were having quite the thunderstorm, otherwise I'd have been outside.}

I have been going to Boot Camp on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, and will continue to do so.  {went this morning!  holla!} I'm going to count those workouts in the challenge.  So, every non-boot camp day between now and my birthday, I'll be running.  Thus making 31 workouts before I turn 31.

Think I can do it?  Think I will do it?

I'm telling you guys here, so that you can hold me accountable.  Also, I joined Dailymile.com.  Unfortunately none of my Facebook or Twitter friends are on there.  :(  Anyone want to join and motivate each other?  I won't harp on you to run everyday.  I don't expect anyone else to be this crazy.  ;)

Have you ever done a 30 day challenge?  Were you successful?

p.s. wouldn't you love to have her abs?

Who wants some popcorn?

Okay.  I'm a little embarrassed by this, but am I the only one who has never made "real" popcorn?  Like, on the stove?  I guess I'm from the microwave popcorn generation.  Well, this weekend, we decided to give it a whirl, and OMG.  So easy, and so delish! 

You just heat some oil in a skillet with one kernel, 

{Isn't it weird how the burner looks purple in the picture?  It really is red, I swear!}

When that kernel pops, you just pour in some more kernels, cover and shake til the popping slows.  

Divide into bowls and season as desired.  

Jon doused his in butter and cheese powder, I went with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle {or maybe a few sprinkles} of Parmesan cheese.  Seriously...so good!  

Oh, and look at this little butterfly shaped one.

Cute, right!?

I don't know that I'll ever buy microwave popcorn again.  This was so easy, and so much better for you! 

Speaking of popcorn....

Father's Day is coming up, and I have a great gift for you!  This started out as a custom order in the shop, but I thought it was brilliant, so it's now listed.  A popcorn bowl for the special dad or grandpa in your life.  Each popcorn has the name of his kids/grandkids!  Fill 'er up with popcorn, treats and maybe even some movies and you're all set!  Completely customizable!

Get yours here, Father's Day is June 19th, so don't delay!

So tell me, have you ever made popcorn on the stove?  Am I the only one who hadn't?