I made a new discovery recently… Drew Barrymore’s makeup line, called Flower. Drew is already one of my favorite actresses and, now I have another reason to like her! Her makeup philosophy is simple, and one that any fan of beauty products will be pleased with; she believes that you shouldn’t have to pay a lot for quality makeup, that is as luxurious as makeup that you would find at the department store. She also believes in making her products here in the USA and, she will never test on animals. Being a fan of makeup, I understand and I don’t want to have to pay $20 for an eyeshadow I like. Also being an animal lover, I am so glad to hear they do not animal test. And did I mention how accessible her line it? Flower is sold at Walmart and on walmart.com. Let’s take a closer look at these spectacular finds!
1. Flower Color Play Creme Shadow in Wild Geranium
I have to admit, I don’t usually purchase cream shadow’s because, I have never found one that I’ve liked before. I find a lot of cream shadows don’t last very long, or crease easily. But, that is not the case with Flower’s Color Play Creme Shadow! It blends easily, and goes on very smoothly. But the key to it, is it sets quickly and maintains it’s rich color! I took this picture at the end of the day… I did my makeup at 7:00 or so and, and this was at 10:00 before I washed my face before bed. I was impressed at how it lasted! You can pick up a cream eyeshadow for yourself for $7.98 a piece.
2. Flower Nail’d It Nail Lacquer in April Showers
For a few months now, I’ve been on a mission for a navy blue nail polish. I’m not sure when this mission started or why but, I wanted to find one and never could. Until…I came across the shade April Showers from Flower. It is a pretty navy blue and it was exactly what I had in mind. Pick this up, or any other of their 16 colors and treat yourself to a pedicure or manicure. At just under $5.00, you can pick up more than one!
3. Flower Kiss Stick Velvet Lip Color in So Gladiola
Last week, when I talked about my May makeup finds, I mentioned that I like to change up lipstick shades for the season. If you’re looking for a pretty peach hue for spring and summer, then So Gladiola is for you! I have to say, I like the color but I did not realize it was a matte lipstick when I bought it. I think the Walmart in Tulsa had the tags on the shelves mixed up and I thought this was the high shine lip stick. It’s still a pretty color and topped with a little clear gloss, it’s just right for me. This is available in nine colors and, runs at just under $7.00 for a tube!
If I had to pick, I’d say that Caesar dressing is my favorite salad. If I go anywhere where a salad comes with the meal, I always pick a Caesar salad. So when I came across this recipe where you make a sauce with Caesar dressing, I was sold! Plus, the sauce is a lot less fattening than an Alfredo but, still extremely delicious. I saw this on the Kraft website and, of course, adapted it a little for my taste. It’s also a great recipe where you can substitute the shrimp for chicken, or add vegetables to the sauce like spinach or artichokes. Or, you could substitute for a wheat pasta as well. See what you think and try this tonight!
Shrimp Caesar Pasta (Served With Roasted Asparagus)
1 lb of cooked shrimp, tails removed
1 lb of penne pasta
1 to 2 cups of Kraft Lite Creamy Caesar Dressing
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cups of sliced mushrooms
2 tbsp skim milk
2 heaping tsp of garlic
1 tsp of pesto
2 cups of Italian blend shredded cheese
2 tbsp of Philadelphia Cream Cheese in Spinach and Artichoke
salt and pepper to taste
1. Bring a salted pot of water to a boil, cooking penne until it is al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, add garlic and a little bit of spray butter and begin to saute the shrimp.
3. Add mushrooms, lemon juice, pesto, salt and pepper if desired, and cook until mushrooms begin to brown and reduce.
4. Add Caesar dressing, milk, cream cheese and milk. Turn down on to low heat to prevent the milk and cream cheese from boiling. Stir in Italian cheese and continue to stir until cheese is melted.
5. Serve over pasta and add Parmesan cheese if desired.
To prepare the asparagus:
1 lb of asparagus
garlic powder
I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Spray
smoked salt
1. On a cookie sheet, arrange the asparagus and spray with the butter spray.
2. Sprinkle with salt and garlic to desired taste.
3. Heat oven to 400 and cook asparagus until they are tender and can be pierced with a fork. (Give or take 10 minutes, depending on the size of the asparagus stalk.)
It’s Friday, once again! I know it’s a little late in the day but…it was a long, busy day at work and this was the first chance I had to sit down. But, there’s still reason to celebrate it’s Friday! Also, if you write a blog, and want to participate and write a High Five For Friday blog too…head over to TheLaurenElizabeth.com and link up, and see what Lauren and other bloggers are up to this week, too!
With that being said, here’s a little recap of my week!
1. Turtle Season
I’ve lived in Oklahoma for almost eight years now, and I’m still not quite used to the fact that turtles cross the road here. In Illinois, just rabbits and squirrels tried to cross the road…maybe the occasional chipmunk. But here, this time of year, it’s turtles that you see. When I see one, I just have to help. Like this little guy! I stopped on the way to work and helped him (or her) cross the road safely.
2. Hanson Day
Last weekend, I got to do something truly great. I got to participate in the third annual Hanson Day concert and member’s only event downtown Tulsa. Hanson does some pretty great things for their fans…like premiering their album early, recording an EP in front of a live audience, opening up their studio as a pop up store, even having an art gallery with Taylor’s photography and Zac’s artwork. It’s a special experience for any Hanson fan! And to top it off, I got to see some very good friends. I have met these girls because of Hanson, and for that, I am thankful! Also…Hanson concerts are not a show you want to miss. They are so enthusiastic and always put on an amazing show! I’m already looking forward to the next Hanson concert, and Hanson Day next year. You can see a few more pictures I took of the weekend on my Instagram.
3. Living on Tulsa Time.
I’m going to go on for Hanson day just a little bit longer. Like I said, it was downtown Tulsa. I just love love the Tulsa skyline. Every time I’m downtown, I’m reminded of what a neat place we live in. Tulsa’s a little ways from my house now but…close enough to go visit, still, and enjoy the sites. And like I said…there’s just something about city skylines that I’ve always really liked. Sky lines at night are even better!
4. April May showers?
So we’ve had a rainy, and frequently cold, spring so far. I thought this was a neat view of the storm rolling in over Grand Lake. Storm’s are fun to watch and listen to. Who doesn’t love a great thunder storm?
5. A Scentsy-ational Bird Cage
Okay, show of hands…how many of you love wax warmers like I do? I not only like the cute and stylish warmers out there but, I love it when the house smells good. I have a few (including my favorite, a white owl from Scentsy) and, I think I need to add this bird cage to the collection. I like that it’s like a lamp and a little different than the other warmers. Plus, the bird is very cute, very vintage looking! I need this warmer in my life (and, hint, my birthday is at the end of this month. Just throwing that out there!)
Hanson has a new album coming out on June 18th called “Anthem.” But, Hanson fans were lucky enough to get a taste of the new music last weekend at their Hanson Day event in Tulsa. Noisetrade has also been featuring a few different new songs on their website, in anticipation of their new record being released. All of the new music I have heard so far is great! But, one new song that has particularly caught my attention is “Tonight.” Not only is it musically a great song but, Hanson fans will notice that this song pays homage to Hanson’s career and music.
Head over to Noisetrade right now, and take a listen for yourself! Put aside any preconceived notions you have of Hanson and hear a taste of “Anthem” for yourself. You can also download the first single, “Get The Girl Back” on iTunes right now!
http://www.noisetrade.com/hanson/21-years-of-music
“Tonight”
by: Hanson
Tonight is the first night
Tonight is the last night
Don’t care what has come before
Tomorrow’s an open door
So box to the ropes and jump in the crow
Throw up your hands and sing it out loud
Oh, tonight
Well it might be a shame and you might be disheartened
To be back on the rocks this time around
I’ve seen the sunshine and I’ve seen the rain
When you walk the line brilliance can sound insane
But tonight is the first night
Tonight is the last night
Don’t care what has come before
Tomorrow’s an open door
So box to the ropes and jump in the crowd
Throw up your hands and sing it out loud
And say what you mean and mean what you say
And tonight
Chase down the dream and don’t give up without a fight
And don’t wait for tomorrow’s daylight
‘Cause it just might be tonight
When you’re too tired to walk and too scared to run
And your heavyweight knees buckle under a ton
Blue sky visions turn into a storm
I’ve got suspicions you won’t make it one more
Well there’s no silver lining, there’s nothing to lose
So don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait for tomorrow
‘Cause tonight is the first night
Tonight is the last night
Don’t care what has come before
Tomorrow’s an open door
So box to the ropes and jump in the crowd
Throw up your hands and sing it out loud
Oh, tonight
Say what you mean and mean what you say
And tonight
Chase down the dream and don’t give up without a fight
And don’t wait for tomorrow’s daylight
‘Cause it just might be tonight
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
Don’t wait for tomorrow
Don’t wait cause it just might be
It’s already a week in to May, can you believe it? Although so far it hasn’t really felt like May…I still know summer is on it’s way. Summer is a great time to change up your beauty routine; a brighter lipstick, a different scent of perfume, or even some blonde highlights. While I haven’t done much to change my hair lately, I have already found some great beauty items this May! Here are some items to get your summer beauty routine off to a great start!
1. The Body Shop Coconut Body Mist
I can’t think of something more summery, than the smell of a fresh coconut! It immediately evokes images of a vacation somewhere tropical and relaxing on a beach. I admit, I’ve been on an an all-things-coconut kick lately. I’m ready for the cold weather to be gone! I have known of The Body Shop brand for years now but, I have never purchased any of their items until recently. Right now, Ulta is having a sale where you can buy one item, and get one 50% off. I was ready to integrate something new in to my perfume collection, and this was just the item to do it. It smells like a fresh coconut that has just been sliced open. Plus, it’s a very soft scent so you can put on a little and smell great or spray throughout the day and it won’t be overpowering. Plus, all of the items from The Body Shop are made with Fair Trade ingredients, and are vegetarian friendly. They also never test on animals! Those are all things I like to see. Head over to Ulta’s site right now and pick up a few new sprays for you (or your mom for Sunday!)
2. The Body Shop Coconut Shower Cream
If you’re needing a fresh treat to change up your shower routine, then I definitely recommend picking up one of The Body Shop’s Shower Creams, like the one I just purchased, also in coconut. It is made with real organic, cold pressed coconuts and it is soap free. This rich, coconut lather is a great way to pretend you’re on summer vacation, even if you’re not. I is chalked full natural ingredients, your skin will love you for it! It’s also moisturizing, so your skin will never feel dry after using it. Also, I can’t stress enough that the $15.00 bottle of shower cream is so worth it because it’s huge…it’s a little over 25 oz. of product. So yes, pick one up, get a perfume or lotion or another shower gel half off right now. Go…do it! (Wait, no, read the rest and then go shopping.)
3. NYX Powder Blush (pictured in Mocha)
I know I’ve mentioned this before but, NYX is one of my absolute favorite brands out there…and I have my friend Erin to thank for introducing it to me. (Hi, Erin!) Put simply, NYX is a high quality makeup at an affordable price. This powder blush is only $4.99!
I have been really pleased with everything from their line that I have used. I’m about out of another blush I like and wanted to try something new so, I went ahead and ordered this since I was already shopping on the Ulta site. I picked the shade Mocha. Don’t let the name thrown you…it’s a pretty pink, and has a nice silky finish. They also have 12 other shades to choose from. It blends nice, and it’s very buildable so you can wear just a light wash of color or do a full, going out make up with it.
4. NYX Butter Gloss (pictured in Peach Cobbler)
I’ve said this before…I have some kind of addiction to lip products. Gloss, balm, lipstick, jumbo lip pencil; I have them all, and need to be using one at all times. I wanted something a little more bright for summer, so I picked this Peach Cobbler shade from the Butter Gloss line. Two things you should know about this gloss; 1. The name says it all. This lip gloss feels amazing to wear! It’s not too sticky, not dry, it’s just right. Plus, you can apply it with out a mirror if you’re skilled. 2. Don’t let the shade startle you. When I opened the tube and inspected the color on the wand, I first went, “I ordered the wrong shade, I’m probably going to return this.” I was wrong. The bright, coral hue looked great on! You can apply just a sheer coat and it looks good. You can go a little more heavy handed and it will still look good! It’s a great pop of color that will add to any summer makeup or outfit!
I have found that I enjoy Mexican inspired food more now, than I ever have in my life! Of course, Italian is my favorite but, Mexican is right up there in second place. I wanted to try something different! I came across this recipe from Cooking Light, and knew it was one I wanted to adapt. This turned out delicious, served with saffron rice and fresh, grilled sweet corn. We also marinated the chicken for a little longer to make sure it really soaked up the flavor! I also grilled the chicken outside because it was warm out but, you can also prepare this chicken on your stove top. Here’s what you’ll need for this healthy dish…
Cilantro Lime Chicken With Avocado Salsa
Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
2 tbsp of fresh cilantro, minced
2 1/2 tbsp of lime juice
4-6 oz. chicken breasts, halved
1/4 tsp salt
Cooking spray (if you prepare it stove top)
Avocado Salsa Ingredients
1 cup chopped tomato
2 tsp of lime juice
1/2 of an onion, finely diced
1/4 tsp salt
Black pepper to taste
1/4 tsp of minced garlic (Optional: I added this, I love garlic and avocado together)
1. First, prepare the chicken and marinade so it can really soak up the flavor while you are preparing the other parts of the meal. In a large freezer bag, combine all of the marinade ingredients and add chicken. Seal plastic bag and shake the chicken to make sure it is coated. Set aside for several minutes to marinate while you are preparing the salsa.
2. Combine the ingredients for the fresh salsa in a bowl, and add the avocado until last. Make sure the avocado is fully coated with lime juice…this will help keep it fresh and from getting brown spots. Stir gently.
3. When you a ready to cook the chicken, spray your pan with cooking spray lightly and cook until each side is done. Check the largest piece of chicken to make sure it is cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan or grill, and top with the fresh salsa. Time to enjoy!
Cook’s note: If you prepare saffron rice with it, also begin to cook the rice while you are preparing the salsa. This will take longer than the chicken to cook and, you meal will be hot and fresh all at the same time.
It’s a new month, friends! I always like changing the calendar, and seeing the first of the month. A new month, a new beginning; it seems like there are endless possibilities!
This month, I’d really like to work on some new branding for my blog…new layout, maybe a logo for it. I had the best intentions of writing blogs every day this week and writing ahead. I’ve had trouble finding the time this week, though. I didn’t even get my full lunch at work today. However, I did get to flip through a “Real Simple” magazine for a few minutes and if you’ve never picked one up, I suggest it! Plus, I like seeing things like that, that inspire new blog ideas and new products to check out.
So in the meantime, while I’m working on some new things, enjoy this cute cat, wearing a hat!
What happens when you get together two of the most unique voices in the music industry? An amazing collaboration between Anthony Green (of Circa Survive) and Nate Ruess of fun.
Anthony Green recently released “Beautiful Things,” his second solo album. His band is going strong, and Green still finds time to fit in solo projects. This song is just a taste of his style and voice! Nate Ruess was the strong frontman of The Format, and they disbanded a few years ago. Lucky for us, Ruess didn’t stray far from the music business, and fun. is doing quite well for themselves.
If you’re looking for some new music for your iPod then, I recommend this song! One listen and you’ll be going, “dang, that’s a good song.” Really!
“Only Love”
Anthony Green (Featuring Nate Ruess of fun.)
Please keep your distance from me I know it’s hard to believe
I never wanted to be your only love.
I know the sting of pride hurts, it only makes matters worse
I never said I would be your only love,
Old ships, battle scars, silhouettes of skeletons
news on once the clouds are gone,
these are things that I am not.
Old news heaven sent if heaven wasn’t what it is
if all the stars fell from the storm
then this is what I’ve become.
I need a new relief
dressed as a new belief and then
I can try to be anything or anyone other than who I was
we never hear the dawn, it wake your roommate up
so I’m between your sheets wishing for anyone other than us.
Please keep your distance from me I know it’s hard to believe
I never wanted to be your only love.
I know the sting of pride hurts, it only makes matters worse
I never said I would be your only love.
Long walks, phones that die, summer in the dead of night
some would say our heads are gone,
and these were things we never was.
Long cries no response, silhouettes from all my bones
still we get our heads on wrong,
cause these are things we never was.
I need a new relief
disguised as new belief and then
I can try to be anything or anyone other than who I was
and I will let you sing between your mothers sheets
and I will slip through the crack of the records that stack your bedroom wall.
Please keep your distance from me I know it’s hard to believe
I never wanted to be your only love
I know the sting of pride hurts, it only makes matters worse
I never said I would be your only love
(We need no proper ending that would mean this meant something)
We need no proper ending that would mean this meant something
Goodness…I can not focus today! This morning, I almost forgot to let the dog outside, too. It’s that kind of day. My allergies have been bad and work has been busy. I was even dreaming about work last night, and that I had stacks of paperwork and my keys wouldn’t work to open the front door. I think all those things are indicating I need to take some “me” time when I’m home. So, let’s take a moment to think about peace…
We are all looking for peace and relaxation in our lives, one way or another. But this is what it comes down to…there will always be something going on. That is the way life is. The key is, to find the peace inside of you and bring it outward. I believe the things we find inspirational are windows to what is inside us. A comforting quote, a picture that makes you in awe of it’s beauty; these are all things that help us take a moment to ourselves.
When you are feeling stressed or worn out…what brings you peace?
”(…) I was just a guy who had a crush on a girl who had a boyfriend. And, I had to do the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, which was just to… wait. (…) For a really long time that’s all I had. I just had little moments with a girl who saw me as a friend and a lot of people told me I was crazy to wait this long for a date with a girl who I worked with. But, I think even then I knew that… I was waiting for my wife.”
I don’t have Words of Wisdom Wednesday ready yet… But in the meantime, here is a photoset from “The Office” that absolutely needed to be shared.
It’s the little changes that can add up to make a big difference. A true statement and, the theme behind the April 2013 Birchbox; tiny tweaks, big results. This month, Birchbox teamed up with Women’s Health Magazine to bring their customers some great, hand picked products, that will make little tweaks in the big beauty picture for us!
1. Lafco House & Home Soap
You know how you might put a fancy soap in your guest bathroom, and save it? Well, Birchbox threw out that notion immediately when they gave me Lafco’s House & Home soap. They believe you should do something to pamper yourself every day, like use a luxurious smelling soap. This beautiful smelling body and hand soap is a great place to start! This Italian made soap is infused with black currant, wild rose, and bayberry and is vegetable based…no fake, waxy ingredients here! Start off your day feeling like you’ve just come from an expensive spa, you deserve it.
2. Nexxus Youth Renewal Rejuvenating Elxir
Look anywhere on the market, and you’ll see cleansers, lotions, and toners all directed at your skin for their anti-aging properties. Just like your skin appreciates a boost, so does your hair. Hair ages too, and becomes damaged from the sun and heat styling, no matter what you’re real age is. Nexxus takes protecting your hair to the next level with this hair serum. Applying a few drops to your damp hair before using a hairdryer can improve your hair in just a week. It will restore your hair’s natural luster and bounce. Your hair will thank you for it!
3. Mirenesse Glossy Kiss
One of the best ways to make a “tiny tweak” to your appearance, is changing up your lip color. For a few months now, I’ve been wanting a lip stick or lip gloss in my Birchbox and, I finally got one! I couldn’t have picked out a prettier shade myself. This pretty coral shade, called Perfect Kiss, really is the perfect shade to compliment eye and hair color. This jumbo, glossy, lip pencil goes on smooth without tugging and feels soft on your lips. The color lasts a long time, too. This Australian brand can also double as a cheek stain, if you’re feeling like trying something new.
4. Simple Revitalizing Eye Roll On
We’ve all been there…that tired morning where you can barely drag yourself out of bed for work but, you have to. You can reach for your coffee (I know I do) but, it’s a little more difficult to hide those sleepy eyes. On those days, give your under eyes a pick me up with Simple’s eye roll on gel. This cooling formula feels amazing on your under-eyes. Roll on, and let absorb before applying any other lotion or makeup. This gentle formula is also hypoallergenic and free of dyes and perfume. Even when I’m not tired, my under eyes need a boost when my allergies are especially bad this time of year. My skin felt refreshed and moisturized. This came to the rescue just in time! All of the Simple products are geared towards sensitive skin…I’ve used their face wash before and it was great, and not drying at all after using it in the shower. You can find this and many other Simple products at your drug or grocery store.
5. Kiehl’s Powerful Strength Line Reducing Concentrate
We do a lot of things to keep us looking young and in shape. The biggest downfall though, can be fine lines. You’ve already gave your under eyes a boost with revitalizing gel, make sure those smile lines are kept at bay with Kiehl’s line reducing lotion. This stuff is potent! It melts in to your skin beautifully, and brightens your skin as well as reducing fine lines. You can use it in the morning and evening after washing your face.
I think I found my new favorite cream sauce this weekend. It was pretty easy to prepare and, not only tasted great over chicken but would also make a nice sauce to serve over chicken and pasta or pasta alone. I have really been enjoying asparagus lately so, as soon as I saw this recipe, I knew it would go well with asparagus and a pasta side. Plus, using chicken prepared ahead with a Parmesan crust makes this super easy. Of course, you can bread your own chicken, which ever you prefer. It would even go well over grilled chicken…it’s all up to you.
So, let’s talk about making some basil cream sauce!
Chicken With Basil Cream Sauce
6 boneless, skinless, chicken breasts (You can either follow my recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken or buy frozen chicken that is pre-coated or breaded.)
2 tbsp of minced garlic
1/2 package of baby portabello mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp of low fat butter
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp of basil
1 tomato, diced
2 tbsp of Italian seasoning (It’s hard for me to judge the seasoning because I just kind of judge how much I want in there!)
1/2 cup to a 1 cup Italian Cheese Blend (depending on how much you want)
salt and pepper to taste
1. Preheat the oven and follow directions carefully for either the fresh or frozen chicken that you are using.
2. In a skillet, saute the butter and minced garlic. Once the garlic starts to brown, add mushrooms and tomatoes and continue to saute.
3. Add basil and Italian seasoning, and pepper and salt.
4. Add chicken broth and stir.
5. Slowly add whipping cream and stir to coat vegetables. Add cheese in and continue to stir until cheese is melted and smooth.
6. Pour over chicken and serve.
For Roasted Asparagus
I have to say, I love this method of roasting asparagus in the oven! It’s much easier than steaming and, they don’t get soggy. Here is what you’ll need to prepare the asparagus and how to cook it:
1 lb of asparagus, ends trimmed at the end of the stalks
1 tsp of smoked salt (or to taste)
olive oil or olive oil cooking spray
1/4 tsp of garlic powder
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1. Preheat oven to 400°.
2. Line a cookie sheet with foil. Arrange asparagus on top of foil.
3. Drizzle asparagus with olive oil or spray with olive oil cooking spray.
4. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder and Parmesan.
5. Roast in the oven for about 12 minutes or until the asparagus can be easily pierced with a fork at the thicker ends.
I’ll be honest…this is more like a “two weeks in review” instead of just this week. There have been a lot of bad things in the news this week. Everyone should take a moment to be thankful for what they have, and that you are safe and sound right now.
With that being said, here are some highlights and little things I am glad for.
1. Spring and taking walks…
I have to say, this spring has been one of the most fickle ones that I can remember. One day it’s 80° and I’m tempted to turn the air conditioning on. The next, there is a freeze warning and all the potted plants are now on the counter. It can’t make up it’s mind. But on the nice days, we’ve been enjoying taking walks. My neighbor, mother-in-law, sister-in-law and I have been trying to walk at least a mile; maybe two, depending on what time it is. And of course, Emmett get to ride along in the stroller. If you talk to him and he has his apple juice, he’s pretty content to go along for the ride!
2. ”When do we want it? Pies!”
Here’s something else to be honest about…I haven’t watched that much of “The Office” since Steve Carrell left the show. It turned out, that I was missing out! So what did I do? Watch what I could of season 8 on Netflix and watch everything that’s aired online for this season in a matter of a week or so. I need help. I mean, the episodes are 22 minutes without commercials it’s so easy just to keep watching! And there are some hilarious episodes! Like, Jim’s prank where he convinces Dwight there’s been a murder in his hotel room, or the “Work Bus” episode. I’m sad to see it come to an end. When you’ve watched a series for this long, these characters come to life and you really feel like they are real people that you know. I mean, I’m pretty sure Pam Beesley would be my best friend in real life! The series finale will air on May 16th.
3. The Pizza Cat
We’ve joked before that there’s a flashing sign somewhere, informing all the stray animals that we will feed them. I’m pretty sure it’s true. They must have some way of communicating! The other day, I had some leftover pizza that I put outside to give Rufus (also a stray dog that showed up) a treat. I could hear that something was outside by the food bowls so I looked out the window, assuming Rufus had showed up and was claiming his pizza. Instead, I was surprised when I found this gray cat, carrying off the pizza! He seemed pretty pleased with the find. He’s trying to be more brave but, he’s still unsure. I’ve seen him before but this stray hasn’t been hanging around for very long. Well…long enough for me to think he might be a relative of Garfield.
4. Barn Owl Cam
Earlier this year, I had mentioned a live feed that the local news shows every year of an eagle’s nest. Late this winter though, a great horned owl had taken up residence in the eagle nest. I love owls and she was fascinating to watch! She has since left the roost but, there’s a new owl I’ve been watching…the barn owl at Owlceanside. Mel and Sydney recently hatched two owlets, one 12 days old and the other 10 days old. Here you can see one of the new babies hatching! There barn owls are such beautiful creatures. Check out their live stream and see what they’re up to!
5. Old Buildings
Back on the topic of taking walks… I have realized that I find old buildings, like this one, so interesting. The older and more broke down, the better. You wonder what it was like when it was first built and how the times were different. This one appears to have been abandoned for a while now. Also outside of an old, broken down barn that we came across, was a rusted bicycle. It’s a pretty old bike…you wonder who left it there, and why it was left like that. I’m hoping to hone my photography skills and capture some more “forgotten buildings” like this one.
If you have a High Five For Friday post, you should link up with Lauren Elizabeth! (Formerly From My Grey Desk but, she’s had a blog makeover! And who doesn’t like getting a makeover?) Head over to her blog and see what she’s been up to as well!
First things first… I can’t believe “American Idol” has been on for twelve seasons. And it’s not like it’s on twice a year like “Survivor.” It’s really been that long since the first season aired and Kelly Clarkson was “American Idol’s” first winner.
This season is already down to it’s top five. This is also the first time I can recall it being an all girl top five. Out of the remaining contestants, I think the girl most deserving of the title American Idol this year is Kree Harrison.
Kree hails from Woodville, Texas, and auditioned right here in Oklahoma City for her audition. Now, she’s found herself all the way in the top five. And rightfully so! This girl has an effortless talent when she performs. She even made singing with a pulled muscle look easy. There are some pretty talented contestants in the top five but overall, Kree should be crowned the winner of season twelve!
A few weeks ago, the contestants had to cover Beatles songs, and Kree chose to cover a song from “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”, “With A Little Help From My Friends.” Even though it’s a Beatles song, I think she made the right choice in performing the song à la Joe Cocker instead of Ringo. This more soulful version of the song complimented her voice very well.
Tonight, the top five will go down to the top four. Don’t forget to watch the competition episodes on Wednesday and see who gets voted off on Thursday nights!
I wanted to say something about the tragedies in Boston this past week. It’s very difficult to see these things happening, and even more difficult to try explain why. I have seen several people refer to this quote from Mr. Rogers and I believe it could not be said any better than this… It is important to focus on the people who step up, and go above and beyond when something terrible has happened, to help out.
