BLOGMAS DAY 12: Christmas Playlist 2

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree // Brenda Lee

Last Chrismas // WHAM!

Dominick the Donkey // Lou Monte

The Little Drummer Boy // Pentatonix 

Blue Christmas // Michael Buble

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas // Sam Smith 

Winter Wonderland // Bing Crosby 

Baby Its Cold Outside // Dean Martin

Run Rudolph Run // Chuck Berry 

Here Comes Santa Claus // Elvis Presley 

Carol of the Bells // The Piano Guys 

A Marchmellow World // Johnny Mathis 

Do They Know Its Christmas // Band Aid 

BLOGMAS DAY 11: Last Week as a "Teen"

Today is Monday, and it is also the beginning of my last week as a teenager.

I'm not quite sure how to feel about this, because age is kind of weird. Am I supposed to feel nostalgic? I mean, the latter end of my teen years was good, but the middle was pretty terrible. I can't say I'm going to miss it very much.

Also, I've been doing adult type stuff for a bit, so I don't necessarily feel like I'm transforming into an adult. I will keep learning, growing, experiencing new things and gaining new responsibilities all the time. I will definitely get more adult as the years go on. I will enter marriage, I will get my own place, I will have children. However, I don't feel like I'm entering a new phase. The only difference will be that I am now a "20 something" instead of a teenager.

20 is a fairly insignificant age. At 16, you can drive. At 18, you can smoke and you're considered an "official adult." At 21, you can drink and do other things (I'm not sure what, but I think there is more than drinking, maybe??) and at 25, you can rent a car.  20 is just, whatever dude. I have thought about my birthday maybe twice. I have no plans other than to eat dinner with my family and my boyfriend. I am expecting some life changes soon, but nothing that I am sharing because they aren't guaranteed. I really just want to take a nap for my 20th birthday, and eat some cake without guilt. I haven't even asked for any specific gift so who knows what anyone (if anyone) got me anything at all! #IAmAnAdult #WhoCaresAboutPresents #JK #IStillCare

Perhaps I'll get my hair done, or maybe I'll just watch movies.

Anything is better than my last birthday, honestly. I was all alone in my dorm (practically everyone had left for Christmas break). I went to Panda Express and ate in my car before work, on the phone with Josh. At work, I found out I wasn't being kept on after the Christmas season (I don't blame them, though. Not having a job is still a big bummer). While at work, a massive ice/snow storm hit the town. I was allowed to leave work early because my boss wanted me to drive safely and there were only like two customers in the store (I lived on the opposite side of town so it was far drive on an ice covered road). It was too late, there was already what seemed like an inch of ice covering my car. I started my car and tried to defrost everything. I would get my scraper out, and scrape until my hands were numb, and then I would get back in my car and warm up. Then I would get out and scrape again. It toook nearly an hour to get my windows clear enough to see, and the parking lot was treacherous. I finally got home to my cold, lonely room. Everything on campus was closed until the next semester, so I ate can of soup in my room and cried (I felt very sorry for myself, though in retrospect, it wasn't really a big deal).

So, it was probably the worst birthday ever. This year will be better, because I am with Josh rather than talking to him on the phone. I'll make my own birthday good, because that is what you have to do. You can't sit around and feel sorry for yourself if things are in your control to change. I made changes, and they have all been good.

We'll see what my birthday turns out to be, but for my last week of being a "teen" I just want to rest for a long, long, long time.

Maybe I'll write 20 lessons I've learned in 20 years on my birthday?

If you have any suggestions on how to celebrate, let me know!

Merry Christmas,
KD

BLOGMAS DAY 10: New Blog Home-Coming Soon

Good morning my friends,

I just wanted to have a little chat with you this morning.

For a while now, I have been wanting to update the blog. A couple of years ago, I spent a long time rebranding and sprucing up the site. It took a lot of work to do, and I was satisfied with how it turned out. Years later, it feels outdated and bland. I have been working hard to create a new site and home for "Coffee With Kaydee." So far, it is coming along slowly, but it looks good. My goal is to get it up and running before the spring semester starts, which is mid January.

The reason I wanted to do Blogmas is to kind of have a send off. I probably won't be blogging here again, but on the new site. I will attempt to get some writing done before the site is up, so that I don't give you a link to an empty site. I'm trying to figure out exactly what I want the blog to be. What types of posts I want to write, or if I want it to be a hodgepodge of things. I also want to have a couple of photogalleries from my different trips (this one will take the most time). I don't know if I'll only post one type of writing, or if I'll talk about fitness favorites, playlists, etc... If you have anything specific that would like to see, don't hesistate to let me know!

It is a lot of work, but I have two weeks off of work that I want to use to get a lot of progress on the new site. I'm sticking with the name, but it will look better and have more components. I can't wait for you all to see it! I will let you know when it gets up and running, for sure.

I hope you all are having a fabulous December! Blogmas is so hard, harder than I thought, lol.

Merry Christmas, see you soon!

KD

BLOGMAS DAY 9: Hallmark Movies--Must See

If you are anything like me, cheesy Christmas movies are your jam. Every year, I watch as many cheesy, romantic Christmas movies as possible. I love love love how each one has the exact same plot, and that each ends with an engagement or a promise of engagement. Even if this engagement happened after only knowing one another for a few weeks! It just makes me feel warm and fuzzy, and knowing that it is going to have a happy ending makes the season brighter. Here is a list of cheesy, romantic movies you must see if your heart is as sappy as mine!

A Christmas Kiss 

A tale about two people who got stuck in an elevator, kissed, and end up working together. The ending is so sweet, but I won't ruin it for you. The best part? There is A Christmas Kiss II! It only has one of the same characters (Elizabeth Rohm) but it has some overlap that it integrated so well. It's the perfect amount of cheesy love to make you want to go kiss someone. 

Holiday Engagement 

First of all, I JUST realized this had Haylie Duff in it. She is actually in a LOT of cheesy Christmas love stories! This one is funny, but sweet all in one. Definitely, go watch it! 

Naughty and Nice 

This is on the cheesier side, but it was still such a sweet story with a lovely ending. Haylie Duff is in it once again, and she does so well! I wish she was in more mainstream things, but I still love her. 

 A December Bride

Okay, this one is similar to Holiday Engagement. It is also pretty unrealistic, but that makes it all the more lovely. He's a cold workaholic who hates Christmas, she's an assistant who is looking to get promoted, and LOVES Christmas. I bet you can guess the ending from the title. ;) 

A Mistletoe Promis 

Have you ever watched the TV show The Hart of Dixie? (So cute, so sappy, so good). Well, Jaime King is also on that show, and she did so well in her part in this movie! I love seeing her in a different role, and I LOVED this story!

A Wish for Christmas 

First of all, Lacey Chabert is the cutest person ever. She is so tiny and her character is so sweet but bold. This is a great movie about confidence, healing, and of course love. Take a moment to watch it so you can feel all warm on the inside on these cold, winter days! 

Now, romantic and cheesy Christmas movies may not be your thing, but if they are, there are SO MANY to choose from. These are just some of my favorites from this year. If you look up hallmark Christmas movies on YouTube, you will get a ton of full movies that are free of charge and good quality. (Hopefully, they don't get taken down). If you're craving sappy love stories, you're welcome! 

Merry Christmas!

KD

BLOGMAS DAY 8: Gift Guide

As Christmas day is approaching more quickly than we can realize, you may be scattering and rushing to think of gift ideas for that one person who never know what they want. While normally you buy gifts specifically, things that you know people have really been wanting, let's face it: you dropped the ball big time this year (and I don't mean on New Year's Eve). You can't be that person who doesn't buy gifts for people, but what can you give them last minute?

Not to worry, I am here to help! Here are my best  gift ideas for this Christmas, I hope you find it helpful!

(These can all be found last minute, gaurunteed!)

1. Paying Off Student Loans

Are you struggling to think of a gift for that graduate or soon-to-be graduate niece or nephew? I have the perfect gift! Offer to pay off all of their student loans, they'll love you forever. You'll be rememembered as the best gift giver ever! 

2. Commitment 

This gift is perfect for that couple in your life who just can't seem to get it together and get married already. Give them the gift of commitment, and you're also giving them a long-lasting, blissful marriage! 

(Perfect also for your own significant other who doesn't seem to get the message. This will scream "Marry Me" without an actual proposal!)

3. A Bill Organizer

This gift just keeps on giving. It perfectly organizes your bills by month and category, which helps constantly remind you that you'll probably never be financially stable. It'll stare at you every morning and remind you that your drowning in the burden of overpaying for things that the world tells you that you can't live without: heat, water, electricity, Netflix. The perfect gift for any adult! 

4. A Child 

Who doesn't love a sweet, small little baby? The gift of a child will place an unbelievable financial and emotional burden on anyone for at least 18 years, most likely more! This gift includes sleepless nights AND angsty teen years, batteries not included! A gift that lasts a lifetime, unlike any other! 

5. A Hostile Political Climate 

There's nothing like watching the left fight with the right, get your loved one a front row seat to constant disrespect, hate, and corruption this Christmas. It'll be like a trainwreck, you don't want to watch but you can't look away! 

6. An Uncertain Future 

Adventures are fun for all, the priceless gift of confusion anxiety is an adventure easy to give to anyone this Christmas. That lost feeling and worry that you might ruin your life is only 85 years of payments at only $19.99 a month. Order today and you can get an incredible amount of student debt along with your uncertain future!

I hope this gift guide helps you find the best gift for your friend or family this gift-giving season!

Merry Christmas! 

KD 

****Disclaimer**** 

This is all in fun, I think children are wonderful, and I am in a very committed relationship, don't take anything seriously. 

BLOGMAS DAY 7: Finals are OVER!

Good Morning Folks,

I am officially on Christmas break! I proofread and submitted my last final yesterday, and it feels so good. While I am not getting grades that are as high as I want them (I set high standards for myself, so while my grades aren't up to my personal par, they are still good), I am at a point where I am just glad it's over.

I can breathe again. I can do things that I actually want to do. I can watch Netflix GUILT free.

Yeah yeah yeah, it's only a month. And I still have to register for classes, do FASFA, return my books, and buy new ones....But hey, I am basically a free bird.

I haven't quite figured out how to celebrate yet because my boyfriend hasn't finished and I want to celebrate together. I am treating myself to a manicure this weekend, though.

It feels nice to know that all the stress about getting assignments done, making payments, and not being stupid is gone. I can stop low-key hating my life for a little while.

But in all honesty, I love school. I love learning and growing and making progress on reaching goals. I love the feeling I get when I make 100% on assignments and finish the semester with good grades. It feels good to feel smart.

I am currently (at this moment and on this day) a bundle of stress thinking about next semester, finances, and just a few other things that have been on my mind regarding college education (student loans....*insert sadness here*). That stuff is for another day and another post. This is Blogmas, the day after finals, and it is supposed to be ALL GOOD.

Some things I am looking forward to about not having homework for the next month:

1. Finishing my Christmas Cards
2. Finishing my Christmas shopping
3. Wrapping presents & mailing gifts
4. Baking lots of goodies
5. Watching Christmas movies
6. Binge watching TV
7. Spending quality time with my boyfriend and my family
8. Taking naps
9. Planning for next semester (yes, I love planning things so I am excited).
10. Focusing on weight lifting

These things have been put off for 4 months, and I am glad I can get back to them. ESPECIALLY THE GYM.

The funny thing is, even though I'm tired and I finally have a chance to relax, I am not ready to stop. Getting rid of homework for a month only opens me up to do more things like cleaning, cooking, organizing, planning. (I'm actually doing a Bible study on the business of life right now, but we'll talk about that later). I am still really happy and excited to experience life in a less stressful way for a bit.

I think to celebrate, I might just take a nap.

All in all, finals are over and I can start celebrating Christmas like I want.

How do you celebrate finals being over? Let me know, maybe we can party together.

Merry Christmas,
KD.

BLOGMAS DAY 6: Childhood Traditions

Happy Humpday!

Yesterday, I kept thinking that today was going to be Thursday. I was thoroughly disappointed when I made the realization that it is only Wednesday. I am ready for a weekend 100% free from homework to spend finishing up my Christmas shopping and mailing gifts galore.

As a child, Christmas was (and is still) a big deal in my family. It was usually just my immediate family, occasionally the grandparents would come. All of our cousins and aunts and uncles lived far away, so we kept Christmas intimate. We had a few traditions at Christmas time that I still love. The past couple of years my older brothers haven't been able to come home for Christmas, so we have let some of those traditions go. I constantly look forward to the Christmases with my own family and the traditions that we will start or keep going.

The season was full of special things. My mom, sister and I would spend an entire day making like 10 different kinds of cookies. My brothers helped when they were younger, but as they got older they only helped by eating the cookies. My dad would make his famous peanut brittle to send as gifts to our family. I can recall the warmth of the house as all the cooking was being done!

Every year, we have this Christmas program at church. Ever since I could stand still, I sang in the choir. My mom directed it all, with help from different ladies in the church. As I got older and my brother moved to college, I was promoted to the pianist. I always wanted to be Mary, but my mom never let me (I guess it would be fair to other kids...but whatever I'm not even mad I guess). We sang all of the Christmas songs and reenacted the story of Christmas. After the program, there was a massive dinner with a lot of people. Once everything was finally over, I can remember going to hang out with my friends and watch movies even though I was dead tired.

The most memorable traditions are Christmas Eve and Christmas day.

Christmas Eve is always filled with pie baking and preparation for Christmas dinner. In the evening, we go to church for a special Christmas Eve service. We sang carols, read the story of Christmas, and some years we lit candles. After the church service, we came home to the finger-food dinner my mom always made for us. We had chips, dip, salsa, pigs in a blanket, cheese and crackers, BBQ Little Smokies, cookies, and peanut brittle. We would eat our fill of goodies, and drink a lot of sparkling cider. Then, our favorite part as kids would arrive. We were always allowed to open the grandparents' gifts on Christmas Eve. This obviously got us all wound up and wild, begging to open just ONE MORE PRESENT PLEASE? Us kids would stay up so late, too excited to sleep. One special tradition my sister and I had was that we would sleep in the same bed. We shared a room most of the time, but even after we got our own rooms we slept together on Christmas Eve. Eventually, we would drift off into a sweet and excited sleep.

A very short, sleep.

Christmas morning, my sister and I would wake up at 4 or 5 am. We would sneak into the living room with our slippers on and blankets wrapped around us. We would excitedly, but quietly, search for our stocking around the tree. My sister and I would pull everything out, telling each other what we got, and then try our best to put our stuff back exactly the way it was so that mom wouldn't know we peaked through our stockings (although I am 100% sure she knew we already looked when we pretended to be surprised in the morning). We would either fall asleep on the couch together or go back to bed.

As soon as the sun came up, we would run back downstairs to look at our stockings again, and impatiently wait for everyone to wake up. Everyone would eventually make their way into the living room, and we would all look through our stockings as the oven preheated for Pillsbury cinnamon rolls. Cinnamon rolls are one tradition I absolutely love. One year my mom said she was going to make HOMEMADE cinnamon rolls, and I got upset because that wasn't the tradition.

My dad would make us all get dressed and look decent for pictures, which we all used to hate but now as an adult I understand. Everyone would take what felt like 1 million years to get dressed and eat their cinnamon rolls.

Finally, after what felt like hours of waiting...we would open our gifts. 

We couldn't just rip into the gifts that had our name on them. The youngest children went first. So, my sister Veronica got and opened the first gift. Then I would go, then my brother Cody, then Troy, then my mom, and finally my dad. We would go through this cycle maybe once or twice before we all went mad and had to just simply open our gifts.

The rest of the day consisted of parents cleaning up wrapping paper, putting together toys, cooking Christmas dinner, and everyone playing with all of their new presents.

If only the magic of Christmas was as prevalent and strong as it used to be when I was a child. The wonder, the excitement, the joy.
Christmas is still magical. The snow (although it hasn't arrived yet...), the Christmas tree, lights, the fun of buying gifts for people, the thankfulness for a Savior's birth.

It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!

Are there any traditions you had as a kid that stick out in your mind? Let me know!

Merry Christmas,
KD.

BLOGMAS DAY 5: Christmas Playlist 1

Your A Mean One, Mr. Grinch // Jim Carrey 

Cold December Night // Michael Buble 

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy // Pentatonix 

The Polar Express // Tom Hanks 

Blue Christmas // Elvis Presley 

Mary Did You Know? // Pentatonix 

Merry Christmas // Third Day 

All I Want for Christmas Is You // Mariah Carey 

Santa Baby // Michael Buble 

Feliz Navidad // Kacey Musgraves 

I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus // The Jackson 5 

The Happiest Christmas Tree // Nat King Cole 

Jingle Bell Rock // Bobby Helms 

Winter Wonder Land // Bing Crosby 

Silver Bells // Dean Martin 

BLOGMAS DAY 4: "The Star" Review

I've only ever been mesmerized in the movie theater three times. The first was when I watched La La Land, the second was when I watched the live action Beauty and the Beast, and the most recent time was when I watched "The Star" on Black Friday. 

This is a retelling of the most wonderful day in history: the birth of Jesus Christ. It has a twist though, it is from the perspective of animals. 

It is adorable, sweet, funny, and touching. While it is not life-like (because animals can't talk) it brings to life the story of Christ and reminds you how truly wonderful the story of Christmas is. 

Boaz (or Bo for short) is a mill donkey, dreaming of having a King ride on his back. He escapes and happens to end up in Mary and Joseph's yard. He journeys with them to Bethlehem with a few side adventures on the way, and even helps save Jesus from the man Herod sent to kill him. I won't spoil the ending, but I will say that it will make you cry. Even a donkey can be used by God for good! 

Although it is not realistic, the writers stayed very true to the original story. 

I loved this movie so much. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it made me thankful for my Savior. It also provoked a lot of thoughts in me about that time. Perhaps the animals around Jesus, the sheep, donkeys, chickens, horses, doves....perhaps they knew that Jesus was God and that there was something very special happening that night. Animals can sense anxiety, they can sense when a seizure is about to happen. Maybe they could sense that the giant, bright star in the sky that night meant that something miraculous was about to happen. 

All in all, it was a beautiful, sweet, and funny portrayal of The First Christmas. It is perfect for children, but adults can definitely enjoy it as well. 

I still want to see it a second time this season, and I am for SURE going to buy it when it comes out on DVD. 

If you have time and money to go watch it, I promise that you will not be disappointed! 

BLOGMAS DAY 3: Top 10 Christmas Movies

Hey everyone!

Today we are talking CHRISTMAS MOVIES! Is it even the holidays without watching your favorite Christmas movies? Uhm, no. In my family, we always watch the first Christmas movie of the season on Thanksgiving night. This year, my mom had this wonderful plan for how the movie is chosen. Everyone had a movie title on the bottom of their plate, and after dinner, a name is drawn. Whoever's name is drawn, their plate's movie is the one we watch! The movie "Jingle All the Way" with Arnold Schwartzeneger was chosen, but we couldn't find the movie. To fix this, we picked 4 movies and placed dog bones on them, the one that our puppy Hildagaard chose was the movie we watched! She chose Home Alone 1.

There are SO MANY good Christmas movies, so I am going to share with you my top 10 favorites (in no particular order).

1. How The Grinch Stole Christmas

This has been my favorite movie for as long as I can remember. I have practically the whole movie memorized, and I have already seen it twice this year! 

2. Home Alone 1 & 2

These two are a family favorite. I couldn't pick one that I liked more than the other, but it is a must-see every year for us! 

3. The Elf

If you haven't seen Will Ferrell in "The Elf," you are not living your best life. I am Buddy the Elf at Christmas time. 

4. It's a Wonderful Life 

This is a classic movie, one that I did not understand until I was probably 14 years old. The message is so sweet, and you should at least see it once in your lifetime. 

5. Miracle on 34th Street

Can you say sappy? But oh so sweet! I love Mara Wilson in this movie. 

6. A Christmas Story 

My family (especially my mom) adores this movie! We watch it every year. Go. Watch. Now. 

7. The Santa Clause Series 

Can I just say that I am glad they made three, and I am more glad that Netflix is putting them all up this month?! Tim Allen is the best. 

8. The Polar Express 

Now, this movie is a little weird to me, but I still love watching it every year! I also would love to go on a Polar Express train ride. 

9. Any Cheesy Hallmark Movie 

I make it my goal to watch as many cheesy Christmas love stories as possible before Christmas day. I have been falling asleep to one every night! Netflix has a ton of them, but you can also watch full movies on YouTube! 

10. The Star 

This is my new favorite. My family went to see it on Black Friday. Words can't explain how good this movie is (but I am going to attempt in tomorrow's blog).  Not only is it funny, sweet, and mushy, it so beautifully portrays the true story of the Greatest Day in history when our Messiah was born! I cried more than once, and I am buying it as soon as it comes out on DVD!  Please go watch it this Christmas! 

What is your favorite Christmas movie to watch?! Let me know! 

In tomorrow's blog, I'll be reviewing "The Star" and will probably cry a little bit! 

Merry Christmas! 

KD 

BLOGMAS DAY 2: Our Christmas Tree

Good morning folks, day two of Blogmas is here!

Today I just wanted to share with you me and my boyfriend's first Christmas tree! We aren't living together, but my room is tiny, and I spend more time at his house anyway. So, we bought a tree and decorations and it was so much fun!

We originally were going to cut a tree down ourselves, but getting the permit was difficult with our work schedules, and then we had so many events over the weekend that made it difficult to make the time to go out and cut one down.

I found a great deal on an artificial tree at walmart.com. It was originally $100, but it was on sale for $69 with free in-store pick-up. To top it off, I had a Walmart gift card so it was even cheaper! I believe we got the 7.5-foot tree. It is actually really full for a fake tree, and it's pre-lit which saved us money on buying lights!

It was so much fun decorating the tree together while listening to Christmas music. It made me excited for the future, and all of the ornaments that we will collect over the years!

It will be such a fun tradition to decorate our tree on December 1st, listening to Christmas music, and hanging new ornaments that we bought for one another the year before.

We also have my 3-foot tree up that I got when I live in a dorm last year! (Unfortunately, my star no longer lights up, so the top is dark :( )

Hopefully, we will slowly be adding one or two more decorations to the house in the next week. Josh is keeping me in check, or else his house would be DECKED OUT.

What is your tree decorating tradition? Thanksgiving night, December first, or never? Let me know!

Merry Christmas!
KD

BLOGMAS DAY 1: Rundown and Stressed

HAPPY DECEMBER, FOLKYOKES!

I have been wanting to do blogmas for a while now, and December is finally here!
I will be posting daily until Christmas. For the next week, they will be super short and super sweet because #Finals and I am trying not to lose my mind!

I have two final exams to study for, and three final papers to write. Thankfully, I finished one class yesterday, so I only have five more to go. It seems like so little, but it feels like so much. So, as you can imagine, I am feeling exhausted and stressed.

Part of my Christmas festivities will be posting daily Christmas songs on my personal Instagram account @therealslimkaydee so go ahead and check them out. :)

Tonight my boyfriend and I are decorating our first Christmas tree together, and I am so excited! I also have to run and secretly pick up his Christmas present, and I am stressing about how to do it discretely. I don't want to ruin the surprise because it is an awesome gift. I have completed most of my Christmas shopping, and I am just waiting for them to be delivered tomorrow!

Sorry for the rushed, random post! They will only get better from here on out!

What are you excited to do this Christmas?! Let me know!

Alright, I have to get back to losing my mind.

Merry Christmas!
KD

October Favorites (blog 1.5)

Happy November pals! Or shall I say Happy Thanksgiving?
It is my favorite time of year, FINALLY! November through December are literally the best months of the year. Baking, time off of school, family, and celebrating the holidays for the second time with the love of my life! I'm so incredibly glad it's the best time of year! 

October, of course, was lovely! I'm just not a Halloween fan. If school isn't closed and businesses are open, it isn't a Holiday. Maybe when I have kids it'll be more fun to dress them up, but I prefer snuggling with my man and watching Stranger Things for Halloween. Here are my FAVORITES of October!

Noah Cyrus-Again 
This girl is budding into a beautiful, talented person! I loved her song "Make Me Cry" that came out in the Spring, but her song "Again" is jammin'! I love singing out loud to this song in my car, and it definitely makes me feel! I highly recommend you give it a listen. Noah has such a unique sound and I love her music! I hope she comes out with an album soon.

Stranger Things-Season 2
UHM OKAY. I really want to make a whole separate post about season 2, but I also don't want to spoil it for any of you who have yet to watch the show. All I can say without ruining anything is that I loved it. It was wild! It was so much more full of action, suspense, and jump scares than last season. My boyfriend and I tried to scare each other at least twice each episode. I only wish the seasons had more episodes. I love love loved this season. If you haven't watched any Stranger Things yet, PLEASE DO SO. It is phenomenal.

2000's Disney Channel 
I grew up watching High School Musical, Hannah Montana, Wizards of Waverly Place, That's So Raven, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, etc... These shows were around in the 2000's (if you didn't know, we are in the 2010's now). I was scrolling through my Facebook feed a couple weeks ago in bed before I fell asleep, and someone posted a full episode of The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. I decided to watch it, and it brought up so much nostalgia and good feelings. So now, every night I fall asleep watching old Disney shows. It is the best and most comforting way to fall asleep. I miss old Disney. I used to think that the new shows weren't good because I'm not a kid, but honestly, they are just bad. I still enjoy Hannah Montana! What was your favorite Disney show to watch? Let me know!


A Day Out with My Bestie
October 6th was my best friend's birthday! Since last year, it's gotten really difficult to find time to hang out. I thankfully had that day off, so we went to Albuquerque to see the Star Wars event at the annual Balloon Fiesta. It was so nice to get to talk and catch up with her! Since then, though, it's been crazy hard to hang out again.

Cooking (Especially this recipe!) 
I have been super into cooking the past few months. I think it is because I didn't have a kitchen last year, and had to eat cafeteria food. Also, I love cooking for Josh and making him happy. While I already have his heart, I still believe in "The way to a man's heart is through his stomach." Especially after he works all day long. The Loaded Chicken and Potato casserole recipe I shared above is one of the best ones I've made so far. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

My Man 
I KNOW, I KNOW. Shut up about your gross love life. He really is my favorite, though! The past few months have just gotten better and better with him and I am SO thankful. I am excited for another month with him, especially the holidays!

What are you favorites from October? Did you do anything exciting? Let me know!

KD

Current Events: A Fortress Among Devastation (blog 1.4)

Today, as we being a new month, I have spent the morning pondering what the October theme will be. I wanted it to be continuous each week. I contemplated a series on wisdom in Proverbs but decided that that will be for another time after I finish studying the book this month. I contemplated a theme of good characteristics that everyone needs.

But I woke up today, and things were different.

I realized that we need to shed light on current events in the United States and in the world. By "shed light" I do not mean that we should talk about things that aren't talked about. I mean that we need to take hope and light and joy and peace and safety and pour it into the world. Because America is a mess, and we are a mess, and we need a lot of light. I don't like politics. I hate them, actually. But I love people.

People, so many people, are lost in the dark today.

They are lost in the spiritual darkness, but also the darkness of hurt and devastation. So entirely and completely smothered in brokenness.

I don't want the month of October to be filled with politics. This series will not be a post about laws, lawmakers, political parties, or the President. This series will be about the overcoming Jesus, the only one who can bring and light and change and security to us during these suddenly dark days.

Last night, a 64-year-old man decided to shoot at a crowd of 20,000 people, killing 50+ innocent people (the death toll continues to climb as I follow the story). Over 400 people were injured. Five hundred (and more) families are aching with a pain so deep we cannot comprehend unless we are them.

Anger, fear, grief.

One man caused these three things to fall upon people who were in Las Vegas to hear a country singer perform. One man maliciously changed the lives of hundreds for the worse.

My heart is in pieces today. I see photos of bodies laying on the ground, people huddled behind walls hoping to stay safe from this evil man. I cry every time I open a news article. So many people lost their lives. So many souls are gone to spend eternity someplace, and we don't know which place. (I pray souls went to be with their Savior, but I know many may not have).

How can we even begin to comfort those people in Las Vegas today? How can we form words in our mouth to bring a bit of healing to them? How can we help? How can we be so lucky? How come it wasn't us? How come I wasn't in Las Vegas? What if the same thing happens to me? How is it that my family is spared, while others are not so fortunate?

These questions echo in my head. It could have so easily been me at that concert. Why wasn't I killed? God, why did you spare me? A soul bound for eternity? 

I don't know the answers to any of these questions. Life is full of hurt, and it seems that every day something devastating occurs. It is dark, my friends. The sun has set on us, and there seem to be no more stars in the sky.

I prayed today, on my way to work, for God's hand to be put on those many lives in Las Vegas. Prayer is all that we can do if we are not in Las Vegas. We need light today. We need it more than ever, it seems.

We are not alone. That is a hope I hold onto today. We are not alone. That light we so desperately need? Love, we already have it. I clutch it my hand more tightly today than ever. It is here, it is waiting to be poured onto us. That light is Jesus.

The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. -Psalm 9:9 

What we can grab to for peace and safety, is the Lord. He is waiting for us to come to Him, and when we do, His peace, which surpasses all understanding, will be laid upon us. (Philippians 4:7)

While you wander, lost and alone, hurting from this painful world and disastrous events, God calls to you from His fortress, asking you to enter into safety and peace.

The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. -Nahum 1:7 

Today, as we watch the news and see a number of deaths rise once again, I ask you to run to the fortress that is God. He knows your hurt, your pain, and He wants so badly to show us all His mercy and love and healing. Let us fall before Him on our knees, let us beg Him to be our Saving Grace, let us enter into His safe and secure fortress, and watch Him miraculously heal His people and His nation.

I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies...In my distress I called upon the Lord; to my God I cried for help. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears. - Psalm 18:1-3, 6

What light will you bring today?

KD

Aching for Autumn (blog 1.3)

The dark rain clouds are starting to slowly disperse to finally reveal the warm sunshine this morning. My coffee is still hot, and my sweet nanny girls are sleeping soundly. My mind is wandering to all sorts of things. My homework schedule for the day, my breakfast that is yet to be cooked, the chilly air...but my heart stays on one sweet thing: Fall.

All of the autumn things are just around the corner, so close I can almost taste them.

Cool, crisp air

I haven't felt the lovely touch of fall just yet, but the chilly mornings that have me reaching for a sweatshirt remind me that that sweet touch is coming soon. Our temperatures are only going to be in the 70's this week, that crisp air is coming.

Warm Sweaters & Flannel Shirts

I have taken the fluffy sweaters and my many flannels out of their boxes and hung them up, packing away my shorts. The days of wearing t-shirts and flannels are in reach. I long to wrap my self in comfort to brace from the cool air. I have the most beautiful pair of fall booties, suede with fringe. The first Sunday of autumn, I will most definitely style them with my favorite fall dress. I will brave the uneven ground and risk breaking my ankle because all women know that fall fashion is the most important fashion. Six-inch heels won't stop me from looking like fall in the form of a human. 

Harry Potter Movies 

For others, the coming of fall may not signal the watching of the Harry Potter Movies, but for me it does. My favorite time to watch them is when the sun sets early and the air is cool enough for blankets. My roommate and I watched them last year, as a reward for doing homework. You better believe that when September 22 hits, I'm telling my boyfriend that we are watching them all, no questions asked. We may even search for a recipe on how to make butter beer (I've never had it, is it even possible?). 

Decorations

I don't have my own home yet, but I told my boyfriend that I will be decorating his house for fall. Pumpkins, leaves, pumpkin candles, wreaths, and more. September 22 is the signal that decorating season is here. You put out pumpkins and acorns for Halloween, add turkeys for Thanksgiving, and then exchange it all for the most wonderful decorations of all: CHRISTMAS! I won't get started, but when Black Friday is here, you will get to hear it all. 

Baking Season

While I have just started a new chapter in my fitness journey and I am currently cutting my carb intake, there is no doubt that I will be baking this fall, even if it means extra cardio. It has been too hot to bake for the past several months, and when it was cool, I lived in a dorm with no oven. I am planning on baking banana bread this weekend, and next weekend (the day after autumnal equinox) I am baking my favorite fall dessert: pumpkin roll! 

There are many things about fall that I love. For a few years of my life, fall signaled unpleasant memories and depression. I am thankful that God has brought me through and I can once again enjoy this beautiful season. I wish that my area had more leaves, but I am planning a romantic picnic getaway to the mountains with my love to enjoy the fall foliage at least once. 

You may also have noticed that I mentioned nothing of Pumpkin Spice Lattes--this is because I am not actually a fan. I might drink one or two for the sake of it, but I stick with my iced caramel latte. 

Fall is falling, and boy oh boy am I excited. Are you as excited as I am? What is your favorite thing about fall? 

Stay cozy, 

KM

Tips for Homework (Blog 1.2)

I am sitting on the back porch of my Nanny girls' house, with a travel mug running low on cold coffee from 6:45 this morning (sometimes I am a snail when it comes to finishing a cup). I was just thinking about a couple of things. I am assuming that most of you are now back in school (if that is your current occupation), so I thought that I would share some tips and tricks I've learned that have helped me be more productive. Sometimes with all of our obligations and time constraints, it is difficult to get focused and get those assignments completed. However, a few of these things may be helpful to you! Here's to a good semester full of A's and fun.

(This list is in no particular order).

1. Make a Schedule 

I may be a little too obsessive with this one, but I swear by it. I color code all of my classes (not necessary), and I end up writing my homework to-do list down 3 (sometimes four if I am overwhelmed) times at the beginning of my new homework week. First, I write everything down in each class's notebook, then I write it all down in one notebook collectively so that I can write what days I will work on each assignment during the week. Then, I take my trusty planner (I strongly advise you to get one of these if you don't have one!!!) and schedule each homework assignment on the day I need to get it done. It is a time-consuming process, but it helps me think through everything and get a handle on how much time I need to allow for homework. (If I am writing down a 4th time, it is in the morning when I write my entire to-do list for the day). 

2. Find your "place" 

I learned that it is important to find a particular place to study in. I recommend a place where you don't typically relax. Often times I studied in the hallway of my dormitory, or at the campus coffee shop. Now, the place I find myself being the most productive is on my boyfriend's couch. While this IS a place I relax, it isn't full of the same distractions as my house. 

3. Keep your room, desk, and other study areas CLEAN

Messes can be unknowingly distracting. If your bed isn't made or you have a pile of laundry on the floor, it can draw your mind off of your assignment. You may not be a neat freak, but if you tidy up your room before you sit down and work, you'll be a lot more focused, trust me. 

4. Stay Hydrated 

This is something you don't even really notice, but when you haven't drunk enough water, your brain will be sluggish. I imagine it like this: your brain all dried up and shriveled in your skull because you don't have enough water, it can't do anything except for sit there. So make sure you have a tall glass of water to drink before and during your study session. 

5. Eat Well 

You need nutrients to be able to run at full capacity, and if you are busy college student you are constantly going going going. Before study time, make sure you have eaten something good for you, and have some snacks on hand to keep fueled (and to keep your mouth busy).

6. Relax 
Yes, it is hard, and that GPA does indeed matter. However, your professors are there to teach you. When you are struggling with a concept or assignment, set up a meeting with them. Your rapport with that professor will be good when they see the effort you are making to do well in their class. They aren't trying to make you pay thousands of dollars to see you fail, they want you to succeed. Take advantage of that resource!

7. Remember that your education should be your priority 
Yes, while it is fun to travel and stay out late and have parties, it's not your current responsibility. Especially if you are in college. You, your parents, or some financial institution, is paying out the wazoo for you to attend. Your current occupation is a student, so act like one, study like one, live like one. It is 4 years (minimum) that you have to drudge through homework assignments and exams, then you can have all the fun you want.  Trust me when I say this: you'll regret not doing your best when you are repaying those student loans or when you are trying to get into grad school.

I hope this list was helpful to you. I wish you all an excellent semester. Now, I have to go make breakfast so that I can do more homework (YAY).

Priorities---Blog 1.0

Hello, all!

I am back for week one update! Boy, this week was not exactly what I expected. I should have put my expectations a little lower, considering it was also my first week back and school and that bodies don't always snap back like rubber bands.

Overview: 

I worked out Monday through Thursday, missing Friday due to weird gym hours and exhaustion. They were all good, sweat inducing workouts that I enjoyed. I was however slightly disappointed in my strength, expecting to be as strong as I used to be with all this time off. I'm not beating myself up over it, it's only week one! 

After this week, I have been considering my priorities and my goals in regards to fitness. What do I want from my hours of training? Do I want to look a certain way, be a certain weight, lift a certain weight, have fun, feel good? Why am I doing what I am doing? With all that life has brought to me, lifting cannot be a priority like it was two years ago. I have a heavy class schedule, family, work, God, and a love life to give my attention. Weight lifting cannot be a top priority anymore because I know that I won't ever compete or make a living off of lifting. So my struggle recently has been finding a new balance between what things are my top priority and lifting. Because I don't want to stop lifting, I want to be fit and healthy and in shape. I won't ever stop loving working out, but how do I do it without neglecting my real priorities? How do I balance this out?

I don't have any answers for this right now. I'm still trying to figure it out. Especially figuring out my style. I know in my heart that I'm not a cardio babe, but I know it is necessary. However, I physically cannot dedicate myself to power training like I used to because it is so draining. I want to mix up my workouts with a little bit of everything. I constantly have to remind myself that there isn't a rush to be where I want to be. With hard work and consistency, I will get there eventually.


Below will be my workouts from this past week if you want to give them a whirl! The order may vary for some as well as the weight, but that is just what worked for me last week as I get back into it. The format is setXweightXreps.

Monday: QUADS

Warm up: 5 Mins Cardio

3x10 Pull-ups/push-ups

Stretches and Rolling

Squats:

1xbarx10

1x65x10

1x95x5

3x105x5

Front Squats

3xbarx8

Pause Squats

3x65x3

Front Bar Squats/Bulgarian Split Squats/Box Steps  

3x8

Tuesday: Cardio/Shoulders/Tricep

Warmup: Stretches

Cardio 30 minutes (1.8 miles)

Dumbbell press/skull crushers

4x10

Lateral raises/Triangle Pulls

4x10

Facepulls/rope pulls

4x10

Wednesday: CHEST

Warm-up: Stretches

Bench

1xbarx10

1x65x10

1x85x5

3x95x3

Dumbbell flyes/plate raise

4x10

Triple set: Incline DB press/push-ups/plate press

3x10  

Thursday: Cardio/Back/Biceps

Warm up: Stretches

Cardio 30 minutes (2 Miles)

Dumbbell Rows/DB Curls

4x10

Back Extensions/Plate Curls

4x10

Rope Lat Pull Downs/Rope Curls

4x10