Hello Saturday,

Busy day today at the store...Founders Day on the Square with a late afternoon Sip and Stroll. Lots of people in for wine tasting. Nice day.

Bub's party was a huge success in spite of the continuing rain. Fourteen year olds dont mind the rain at all. Everyone had a great time.

Wrapping up at the store, headed home for the evening. More later.

Warmly,
Kim

Feeling rushed today, so much to accomplished and so little time. Have to go to Sam's for the party tonight and it stresses me out just thinking about the crowds and how long the whole process takes. It I weren't tied to time constraints I might actually enjoy my trip to Sam's as there are really lots of interesting things to peruse. Anyway, need to make a list and get it on with the trip.Rain, rain please go away. I do not have the slightest idea what to do with forty kids here for a pool party if it should rain as forecasted. The cookout and the football games wouldn't be possible either so please, please rain go away. Family members you are welcome to come for dinner and help chaperone hint, hint. Party starts @ 7 and prep way before that!Saving grace is that the guests are 14 and will not notice that I haven't attended to things like the remaining laundry or made my bed, just closing the doors. They are also very easy to please, thank goodness, and will enjoy whatever food we provide as long as ther is cake. Speaking of cake...need to touch base with the baker and schedule time to pick up. Maybe she will deliver ;)Being that this is a swim party and of mixed company, I am praying that ther will be no issues of scantly clad girls. Surely their parents will monitor their attire, right? Anyway, looking forward to the party because I really enjoy his friends and he is so excited. Prayers for no rain and appropriate dress. Oh and a few prayers for a safe and unadventurous trip to Sam's would be much appreciated as well.Happy Friday,Kim

I love to plan and execute parties. Probably love the planning more than the party actually. Lol. However, it is enormously gratifying to see those you love enjoying the party you have pulled together. Makes me smile.When I am planning a party, I like to think about the guest of honor for a few days, really think hard about them and who they are, what they love, what would surprize them and make them the most happy. Things like their favorite color, their hobbies, favorite sport, their preference of cake flavors and whether or not they are a cake person or a cupcake lover. All really important when planning a party for someone special.I read the book, The Five Love Languages a few years back and I have since planned my families parties thinking about how each family member receives love. It really does make a difference in how their perceive what is being done for them. For instance, my oldest daughter takes alot of time in selecting gifts for us every Christmas. Her gifts to us are exactly right for us. She is very perceptive and can remember things that we have said throughout the year that we would really like to have. She gifts with alot of heart and it shows in her gift-giving. So when planning a party for her, I do the same. I attend to details like she does for me and make special surprises for her because she does so for me. People tend to give things and in ways that are important to them. I give back to her in her way of giving and she feels loved and very special.Now, with my youngest son, who I am planning a party for now, I am making it really special but in a different way because he is not about the gifting per say but more about making the party reflect WHO he is. Partially because he is 14 and at this stageit is important to him that he appear strong and athletic to his peers. So, he will feel most loved if I capture his spirit and strength in his party. I am pulling together a football themed party in strong color of brown, black and dark green. Adding football themed bowls and platters and put together a photo collage of him for the invitation. He and I spent a sunday afternoon together at a neighbor's pond taking photos of him doing his favorite things like casting a rod, throwing the football etc. Photos turned out great and he was so pleased with the invitation. So proud, smiling ear to ear. Worth every cent and time spent. He feels loved and important. Will post photos of the party at a later date. Praying that the rain holds off until after the party. Yikes, what to do with 40 adolescents who cannot swim at a swim party. Must have a Plan B.So, anyway, just a few thoughts on party planning as I am enjoying my party planning adventures today. Next time you plan a party, spend some extra time thinking about the guest. And if you are up for a good read pick up a copy of The Five Love Languages, it's a very enlightening book.Off to finish my shopping. Oh and speaking of shopping, parties need not be extravagant to make someone feel special. It's not about how much you spend but on what. Make it special, keep it simple.Talk to you soon,Kim

Just a note about the Crunchy Slaw that I mentioned this morning; not so good on day three and most likely day two either. I didn't try it yesterday but from my experience today I would say this is a a salad that must be served immediately due to the ramen noodles. Both the noodles and the cabbage were a little soggy today. Fabulous salad day one! Oh and something else to note regarding the recipe, I cut the recipe in half for my family of six and still had leftovers. So, it appears that this recipe is for a large family gathering like maybe a reunion or something, makes a very large quanity. Enjoy!

Hello Thursday. Great night out with the hubby and good friends. Late night dinner @ Sullivans, yum. Really late like 10:50 to be exact, lol. Hubby insisted we have a good dinner and charms the chef into preparing one more dinner for the night. A much preferred choice over What-a-burger. Had the Meatloaf and mashed potatoes with a wedge of iceberg lettuce and house made blue cheese dressing. It was divine! hubby had the porterhouse steak with chipolte glaze and lobster bisque soup. He also enjoyed an iceberg wedge and blue cheese. needless to say, we took home leftovers because our eyes were much bigger than our stomachs at that hour. Good lunch today!In Trisha's cookbook there is a recipe for the wedge and a homemade blue cheese dressing. That's next on my list as everyone in this family loves blue cheese! Can't wait to try it.Made the Crunchy slaw recipe on page 116 Tuesday night for dinner. Paired it with leftover roast beef and it was amazing! Fabulous recipe, just the right combination of sweet and salty and a little added crunch from the ramen noodles, toasted sesame seeds and almonds. Highly recommend. Mmmmm...might have the leftovers for breakfast this morning with my boiled eggs. So good.Lots of errands today. Pulling together Bub's party for Friday night. Almost forgot to order the cake. Just sent Annie a text with the order. Hope it doesn't rain Friday, praying for sunshine would settle for cloudy. :)Happy Thursday :) More later on wallpaper as I am seeing it in all the magazines and feel the need to explore as I have always loved wallpaper. Til later.Warmly,Kim

Hello Wednesday. Whew, day got away from me. It's already after 5:00. Busy but fun day, worked in the store all day, thinking about where to head next, what to move where and what new product to bring in and how to pay for all the dreams I have for the store. Lol One day at a time as they say.Just finished picking up my Bear and headed home to finish dinner for the kids before heading off to a Grand Opening party for a project my hubby just completed. Bear is driving and I am typing, perks of having a teenage driver. Looking forward to a grown-up evening and night out with my favorite person. :)Summer is fast approaching and I am feeling the warmth of the sun as I dream about coming days. Lake house is calling my name...waves crashing against the rocks, warm breezes blowing across the porch, sangria and shrimp on the grill. Calgon take me awayHome now and need to head inside and finish dinner and get to the shower. Fun night ahead. More tomorrow.Warmly,Kim

Hello Tuesday...Going for the herbal tea this morning. GET LOST tea by Republic of Tea to be exact. Really does help with suppressing my appetite. Kids off to school, housekeeper lined out. Dinner, something easy for crockpot again as Bear has a solo in the Spring Show tonight. So proud of her. Prayers for her today as she is very nervous about her stage performance.

Dinner...oh yes, dinner. What is in the freezer? Then off to Lowes to look at outdoor lounge chairs for the lake house. Then to work at the store for a few hours.

I Have to share this recipe with you before I leave today! Over the weekend I purchased Trisha Yearwood's second cookbook, "Home Cooking with Trisha Yearwood" and it's is a beautiful book. I could hardly wait to try something from it.

 

I decided to make the Crockpot Mac & Cheese only I used her suggestion for the oven because my crockpot was being used for my pot roast. I will have to share my pot roast recipe with you sometime too. Anyway, here you go...

Trisha Yearwood's Crockpot Mac & Cheese!

8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked (gluten-free or whole wheat if you choose)

One 12 ounce can evaporated milk

1 1/2 cups whole milk (I used 2%)

2 large eggs, beaten

1/4 cup (1/2 stick)butter, melted

1 teaspoon salt

Dash of pepper

Two 10 ounce blocks of sharp cheddar cheese, grated(about 5 cups)

Dash of Paprika

Crockpot Method:

In a large 4-quart crockpot sprayed with cooking spray, mix the macaroni, milks, eggs, butter, salt pepper, and all but 1/2 cup grated cheese. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top of the mixture and then sprinkle with paprika. Cook on low heat for three hours and 15 minutes. Turn off the crockpot, stir the mixture, and serve hot.

Oven Method:

Grease a 9x13x2 inch pan with butter and add the mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. Please note that the recipe says to precook the macaroni. I have to be honest and say that I did not see that until afterwards as I was preoccupied with a friend's new baby while preparing this dish. Soooooooo, I followed the above directions literally. So, when it said to "mix the macaroni, milk, eggs, etc." I mixed it altogether, uncooked Mac and all and it turned out great!  My only complaint from family was that it was a little dry. Obviously due to the fact that the uncooked noodles soaked up all the liquid. An easy problem to correct I think, just add a little more liquid. Probably regular milk so that you dont have to open another can of evaporated milk. I will try that next time I am craving Mac & Cheese. I have a feeling I will be making it alot over the summer as my oldest daughter is home from college and that is a favorite of hers. Enjoy!

Hello Monday :) Yawn...off to the kitchen to make a pot of my new organic herbal coffee that I picked up yesterday at Whole Foods in Austin, Tx. A wonderful chicory carob blend with a hint of hazelnut. Cant wait yum.

Where to start...wake up the baby(who is now 14 and no longer a baby but always my baby). Got to get him to school on time for a change, we have both been slacking alittle and staying up too late with projects and a little bit of summer fever if I am totally honest. Anyway, up the stairs to get him going.

Coffee smells amazing....yum! Off to school.

Next, make sure my youngest is up and make her a few boiled eggs with fresh blueberries on the side. Her favorite breakfast. Off to school again.

Home sweet Home...but what a mess. Where to start. Every table is covered with junk. The sink is full of dishes. Laundry room full of dirty clothes from my two college kiddos, so glad to have them home for the summer.

Spent the weekend packing up and tearing down the dorm room. What a task! Mom, Bean and I worked ourselves to the bone and thank goodness for my oldest son and friends came to our rescue and moved the big stuff, couldn't have made it without them.

So all are home safely and I am looking around my house and do not know where to begin. Summer brings everyone home but so comes the extra laundry and tens times the meals! And the summer schedules...geez! I get overwhelmed just thinking about them!

But...new coffee in hand, roast in the crockpot; I am good for now. I peeked in the laundry room...maybe one more cup of coffee before I go in.

And the dishes...ok, diving in...I always feel better when the sink is empty. Then to make a grocery list, pick up the dog from the kennel, and prepare a summer list of chores for everyone. Summertime here we come!

Long and exhausting but wonderful and fun weekend with my Mom and my oldest daughter.

I dont know about you, but, I dream of living in the South of France. Small country chateau full of farmhouse essentials like a farmhouse table lovingly worn and tattered. There would have to be a farmhouse sink, an original porcelean, of course, and tons of ironstone bowls, plates, etc. upon the shelves. Fresh flowers from the breathtaking garden, manned of course, by the quirky gardener in an old straw hat. Feather beds and down comforters made of vintage fabric, most likely toile. Ahhh, French farmhouse style...is there anything more inviting? Any style more charming? I think not.

 

 

 
  

I took these photos during my recent trip to France. I walked the grounds of this magnificent Chateau. Ahhh, the splendor. I was in Heaven! Truly, I must have been. Picture perfect, just like I have seen in photos and books all of my life. Gardens manicured to perfection, yet, like everything else in France, there is a certain unpretentiousness about them. A seemingly "Imperfect Perfection".

So is true of the interiors of French Farmhouses and Chateaus. Chipped paint, tattererd upholstery, broken shutters; they draw us in; forever charmed by their nonchalance. We are taken back by the tolerance and reverence for the pieces that show their age.

 
 
 
 
 
 

 And yes, that's Moi in the mirror :)

 
 In closing tonight, because it is actually morning now and time to get some sleep, I leave you with this challenge...

Flirt with nonchalance, embrace age and savor the ability to accept imperfection. Discover the grace in French Farmhouse style, discover a different take on life.

Night all,

Kim 

Just a quick note to get you to check out a great new resource for bloggers as well as readers! The new site is called The Blog Guidebook and it's awesome.

Created by two friends who wanted to make finding great blogs easier for everyone, the website has over a hundred categories of blogs. Want to find a blog about Antiques? How about Crafting?

The Blog Guidebook is a great new resource! Check it out www.blogguidebook.com

Happy Reading!

 This is a recent photo of some of the new items in the store; New tufted headboards, gorgeous linens from French Laundry and great antique treasures!

 

Beautiful collection of Indigo and Orange...Capri Blue candles in Volcano, Havanna and Sweet Peony, cheese domes and cakestands in our Driftwood collection and fabulous hand and bath soaps from Claus.

New slipcovered furniture and upholstered ottomans, beautiful antique iron table base with custom made metal top, lots of wonderful vintage treasures and great gifts items too!

Garden accessories, wicker furniture and lots of wonderful ferns & flowers for that fresh spring look!

Lovely, stylish clothing by Christy Foster of Groovy's.

More wonderful Claus hand soap in Madrigal Water Lily...dreamy. 
 
Hope you enjoyed the visit into the store...come by and see us! 
 
 
 
 
 

I cannot believe that it has been so long since I have blogged, I am so sorry friends. I have truly neglected my blog and I am so sorry, really. I have missed it so much but my life has been so crazy since my last post that I just havent had a moment, or honestly, taken a moment to write anything. I kept telling myself that it wasn't important in the grand scheme of things and that it was just a hobby and with everything else going on, there just wasn't time for it....uugghh, I wish I wouldn't allow my "serious"self to convince my "creative" self that there isn't time for anything but serious stuff!I happen to LOVE blogging and the community of bloggers and have missed this world very much...take that "serious" self! Better make some time in our schedule for some blogging because I am ready to blog!I am typing on my new IPAD that my hubby gave me for Christmas. I love it but it hasn't takn me long to realize that I am going to need to get a real keyboard. Pickin around on these keys to write this blog is exhausting to say the least, but, I am determined to write tonight so I will keep pickin away.I picked up a copy of the "Lipstick Jungle" TV Series DVD Collection First Season the other day at Target while getting groceries. It looked interesting and it was something I had intended to watch but never gotten around to it...sort of like blogging. I love Brooke Shields so I was intrigued. Figured it would entertain me one evening while at home alone.I got home, unloaded and put away my groceries. Noticed thatbthe house was quiet and everyone was otherwise preoccupied. Perfect oppotunity for watching "Lipstick Jungle". I love it when everything falls into place...all that's missing is the popcorn and a box of Whoppers! THREE hours later...I am so hooked! I LOVE this series! I LOVE the characters and it's so clean! No smut, no trash, nothing that made me turn my head in disgust! My family came in and I just couldn't stop watching it, lol. They went to bed and there I sat completely entranced in it all. I put in Disc two and kept right on going...I couldn't wait to see what happened to them all. My husband came to check on me later and I agreed to stop watching and come to bed only to plant myself right back on the sofa after I got everyone off to school the next morning.A few hours later, I finished the series, the first season. I decided that I had to find it on TV and record it so I would never miss it again. Sadly, I discovered that not only had I missed Season One, I had missed the entire Series altogether! Apparently, the show was cancelled after only two seasons. I am soooooooo bummed! I am angry and frustrated too because it's really good! Now I must search everywhere for the Season Two DVD Collection to at least see what happened to my girls! I guess I will also join the "Lipstick Jungle" groupies that blog on NBC's website begging them to bring it back. Note to self: I need to gain more control of the remote at my house; there is entirely too much football, basketball and Law and Order being viewed and not enough time spent on truly good TV like "Lipstick Jungle".Anyway, time for bed. Feels good to blog. Feels good to speak to friends about the latest tv series and needing more control of the remote. More later...it's good to be back!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 These photos were taken from a River Boat on the Seine River. Gorgeous! And oh sooooo romantic!  
 

 
 
France is even more lovely and charming than the pictures I have seen all my life. It is absolutely breathtaking. Each window dressed in cheery painted shutters. I love that it's real and not just staged photography. Does that make sense? I guess I was alittle afraid that I would get to France and all the beautiful photos that I had been seeing for years would have been "only photos", know what I mean? I was not disappointed by any stretch. France was even more beautiful than I ever dreamed it could be. Take a look for yourself. Yes, these are only photos, but, you can trust that what you are seeing is what I have seen with my very own eyes.

For the next few days or until I need to share something else with you, I will post photos of my trip to France. I hope you enjoy the trip!

Warmly,

Kim

This is my husband, Steve. So handsome isnt he? And this quaint little green door is in Vivier, France. My favorite of all the little towns along the Rhone River. So very charming...

Wow is right! This is a photo taken from the highest point in Vivier. We were standing in the courtyard of the church on the hilltop. Looking down onto the fields and quaint houses of Vivier. In the background you can see the Rhone River. Beautiful!

Vincent van Gogh? Probably not, but definately a wannabe!

Leaving Vivier....returning someday soon I hope! More later.

 
Wow, what a summer this has been! Hauling around and entertaining four young adults, preparing two of them for college-one for the dorm and one in his first apartment, preparing another for her debut in high school and my baby for eighth grade, building a lake house and organizing my new store which was supposed to open in May and still hasn't(can't imagine why not); all of this on top of planning a Graduation Party, a Family Reunion at our home and a trip to France! I was actually supposed to sell at Marburger this month but had to cancel because, believe it or not, I couldn't do anymore!!!

I am missing Marburger already as it opens next week and I will not be there selling my heart out. Oh, well, we can only do what we can do and at least I will be traveling to RoundTop with my dear friend Jill and we will most definitely be browsing the aisles of Marburger. It will probably be more of run as that is what it takes if you intend to find the good stuff before anyone else...I love that place!!!

Last weekend I was privileged to have attended the first ever Where Women Create Event. It was magical! 400 plus enormously creative and successful women all under one roof! You would have to be there to appreciate and even believe the energy that stirred the event. I was so impressed with the organization of the event. Jo Packham and Nancy Soriano did a knock out job! Seriously, the entire event was top notch from the delicious meals to the incredible talent upon each panel discussion to the amazingly talented artists who held the craft workshops. Oh, and how could I forget the enormous talent within the Handmade Market, OMG! It was fantastic! Then there was the Autograph party...WOW, it was like being in Hollywood! So many talented women all in one room...Debbie Dusenberry of Curious Sofa, the beautiful Amy Butler of Amy Butler Design, Leigh Standley of Curly Girl Designs, Laurie Lenfestey of Bittersweet Designs, Wendy Addison of Wendy Addison Studio, Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman! And there were so many more wonderfully successful women, I could go on and on. They signed autographs for hours while we all sipped gorgeous cocktails made especially for us and our very special evening. It was dreamy and dinner was divine! Those of you who enjoy being creative and being around those who live and breath creative success, this conference is for you! Next year, same time. Check out their website to stay in tune with the event. www.wherewomencreate.com You'll love the event and the site, pick up their magazine too! It's so very inspiring!

And then...two weeks in France. What can I say...really, there are few words to describe the beauty, the simplicity and casual elegance of France. My husband and I traveled from Nice, the Cote' d' Azur and better known to Americans as The French Riviera, to Arles, Vivier, Avignon, Macon, Lyon and a few more quaint little towns before we so delightfully ended our stay in Paris, the city of lights. The trip on the Rhone River via the MS Chardonnay was picturesque. Warm, sunny days spent inland in cozy, quaint little towns and cool nights relaxing on the upper deck watching the stars. The staff of the MS Chardonnay were the best and made us feel like royalty. The ship was stunningly beautiful and so very charming in it's small size with only twenty four cabins. The chef and his staff prepared the most delicious meals and we ate our weight in glorious french cuisine. Our last day on the ship came too soon and it was hard to say goodbye. Wonderful friendships were made and we will never forget the Rhone River.

France is truly as beautiful as the pictures I have seen all my life. I felt as if I were walking within a storybook. Each window adorned with window boxes, flowers overflowing. Freshly laundered clothing hanging ever so casually in the sun catching the warm breeze. Truly, picturesque.

Boulongeries and Patisseries on every corner...the smell of freshly baked bread filled the air and pastries sparkled in the many windows along the charming streets. And then there was the fish market...this smell too filled the air although I wasn't quite as fond of it. I couldn't get past the flies that swarmed the fish, but then, I am accustomed to a very different environment when I am buying fish. Then there were the olives, yum and the spices and ohhhh the lavender, my favorite. I think the scent of lavender will always be France to me. I know I must have purchased one of everything I stumbled across that smelled of lavender.

Paris...where to begin. I know why they save this part of the trip for last. It is the best, it is the cherry on top! The history before your eyes is unlike anything you have ever seen before. It is breathtaking. So many times I stood in awe of this most beautiful place and tears would fall down my cheeks.

One such place was Giverny. The home place of Claude Monet. If you haven't seen it, you wouldn't believe the beauty. I kept thinking how much my dear Grandmother, Modena Cary Ross, would have loved this place. To behold such beauty is a true gift and she would have been so honored by the beauty. The ponds, the gardens, the house, all created by Claude Monet's hands. I stood in awe of his work, his house, his world. The tears came without warning, the beauty was overwhelming.

Another such place was the Louvre. We spent five hours there and could have spent more if our legs would have carried us. Room after room of artwork by the Masters. Leonardo Divinci, Renoir, Degas, Van Gogh...to be inches away from such masterpieces like The Mona Lisa, really? Are we lucky enough to be that close to something so precious, so rare? I think it must have been a dream because moments like this are what dreams are made of. It was hard to leave the Louvre. It was hard to leave France. I felt so honored to have been there, so blessed to have been given the opportunity to walk on the streets and into buildings the Romans have built, to walk where Napoleon walked and reigned, to share space with great works of art by the Masters and to stroll in the Parks where Parisians stroll everyday surrounded by beauty the rest of the world can only imagine. I am looking forward to returning someday soon.

All in all, it's been a great summer and early fall. I find myself in a new place, one of honor and grandeur; of inspiration and creativity and an old familiar place of love and nurturing. I am peaceful and so very blessed.

Pictures of France will come later, time for bed. Night all.

Warmly,

Kim   

After a VERY long month of getting four young adults ready for school; two going to college, one starting high school and one eighth grade, I am completely worn out. Add to that an unexpected trip out of town which involved air travel(which is always daunting) and you can imagine the sheer exhaustion I was feeling. Mentally, physically and emotionally I was baked.

Upon finishing my tasks for the evening which involved a last minute trip to Walmart for groceries and a new desk for my son, rounding up children from sport practices and preparing dinner, I knew I needed either ice cream(which I love but would involve a stomach ache)or a movie to bring me to a softer place. I chose the movie. Knowing full well that because of my last minute grasp for sanity, I would be going alone. I didn't even care. In fact, sitting alone in a dark theater with my phone off sounded like pure bliss. I hurried to the shower.

I knew exactly what I was going to see because I had been anticipating it's release for months. I would be going to see Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. A true story based on her life or should I say the search for her life. Julia Roberts had been cast as Elizabeth and as anyone who knows me can attest, I am a sucker for anything Julia Roberts or Meryl Streep for that matter.

For months I have been catching pieces of the movie review on television as I worked in my kitchen(my office and family center)on college registration tasks, high school entrance forms, medical releases and sports physicals all while cooking dinner and filling in my ever expanding calendar. Which, by the way, it so full that I do not have anymore room to write in ANYTHING else. In fact, even rescheduling something would be tough because it would require space of which there is none.

On that family calendar is a two week period this fall set aside for my husband and I. We are traveling to France where we will spend two weeks on a River Cruise Tour. I have never been so excited about anything. It is a dream come true. But....as my calendar of family events would reflect, there has been no time to spend on preparing for the trip. It is penciled in on my calendar, but that's it. Penciled in, well maybe it is in ink. But, nonetheless, I have done NOTHING else to prepare for it except to place it on the calendar. I dream of it often and know that I should be spending time in preparation, but, something else always takes priority. Some other deadline or activity to which I must attend. And that's ok, it is my life and I love it. I am the family manager and wouldn't trade what I do for anything. So prepared or not, I will travel with my husband, who is the love of my life, for two weeks to a place where I have always dreamed. And I will love every minute of it. So, faithful readers of mine, please feel free to share travel tips with me...quicklyl! lol

Anyway, with each review of Eat Pray Love I had grown more anxious for it's release. Partly because Julia Roberts plays the main character and partly because the story line seems to tug at my heart. I think most women can relate to it or have felt some part of what she is feeling. For weeks, I found myself thinking about the movie and wanting it to "hurry up" and open. I broke down and bought the audio book because I just couldn't wait any longer. I downloaded it on my IPOD Touch and took it with me on the airplane. The suspense was killing me. I could hardly wait until the airplane was in the air and I was permitted to use my audio device.

The hours of the plane ride melted away as I listened to Elizabeth give the details of her very complicated life. My heart ached for her. I could feel her pain and despair. I was disappointed to feel the plane begin to land. Sorry that the story would have to wait until my plane ride home.

Three days later, I boarded the airplane eager to dive into Elizabeth's life journey again. The story continued and I felt like I had become one of Elizabeth's friends.

Having now experienced both the book and the movie, I would highly recommend that you read or listen to the book first. The movie was great but the book is full of must have information that they leave out in the movie. I found that part a little disappointing. So much of the reasoning behind her actions is left out. Like the fact that she chose celibacy during her year of travel. The movie doesn't go there, in fact, it leads you to think it was a one time refusal of a very handsome guy when in fact she had many encounters and desires that she refused. All very important to her personal journey.

Anyway, I loved the movie! I thought Julia was as amazing as she always is and each character within the movie was equally as brilliant. My favorite part of her journey was Italy. What a beautiful, vibrant place. And oh the glorious food! Who wouldn't love to stay there for four months.

Her stay in India was cleansing and beautiful and her friendship with Richard was very endearing. I cried a few tears here. But will leave it at that.

Finally, Bali and the medicine man. So touching and full of life changing experiences. You will grow along with her as you experience her journey of finding balance in her life. Her experiences will warm your heart.

I overheard moviegoers say that it was "slow". I agree, it is a little "slow", but, the message is worth waiting for. And, I think the idea is to slow down...breathe. The pace of the movie encourages you to do so. So, just relax, put away the hurried expectations of this life we lead and take a couple of hours to sit quietly in the dark. Enjoy the movie or the audio book or both like I did!

Live in Joy,

Kim  

For years, I have searched high and low for the perfect Mac & Cheese recipe. It has become an obsession. Seriously, I have tried hundreds of recipes and all have been really good but just not right. None of them are the One! I own hundreds of cookbooks and even more magazines all boasting of the "Perfect" Mac & Cheese. I get so excited with each new recipe that I can"t wait to try it. Hot out of the oven I dive in only to be disappointed with the result.

I am not even sure what I have been looking for or what's been missing from the recipes. All I know is that I just haven't found it. I have worn out family members by asking them to continually bring new versions of the dish to the latest family get-together. And every time, with every bite, I am disappointed. Not that the dishes are great, they are! It's just that something is missing. But what?

I have tried "Grown Up Mac & Cheese", "Four Cheese Mac & Cheese" and Martha Stewart's Mac & Cheese, each promising to be the perfect combination of ingredients. I must say that I still remember the "Grown Up Mac & Cheese". It was divine! Creamy Blue Cheese crumbles and some other delicious gourmet cheese. But still, it just didnt do it for me. I am exhausted with the search. I am becoming bitter about it to say the least. I am frustrated with myself for being so picky and frustrated with everyone else for not providing the version I desire.

While doing my grocery shopping last week in Target, I ran across Cooking Light's newest magazine "Cooking Light - Recipe Makeovers-New Twists on your Favorite Dishes". I bought it of course. Partly because I am always looking for new ways to cut calories and fat and prepare healthier meals for my family. But mostly because the cover boasted a gorgeous bowl of WHAT ELSE? Mac & Cheese!

Upon returning home and starting dinner, I logged into Facebook, my usual cooking companion, and checked the daily posts of friends. I ran across one from a dear sweet friend of mine from high school. She had posted a precious picture of her children and I was anxious to see more so I went to her page. I spent the remainder of my cooking time admiring the photos of her family. Then it hit me...MAC & CHEESE!

I felt this strange craving for Mac & Cheese. It was weird. But, as I looked through her family photos, memories of times spent with them throughout high school came rushing back. I spent countless hours at their house and specifically remember one very special night that her Mom had invited me and my family over for dinner to celebrate my birthday with their family. I was so honored by the invitation. I really couldnt believe it was all for me and I felt so special. The meal was wonderful. The time with their family was wonderful too. Her Mom made it even more special by showering me with gifts. I specfically remember a beautiful red satin blouse and jeans that were given to me in just the right size. I had never had anything so wonderful, so luxurious or so personal. But, the thing that I have remembered all these years, even more than the red satin blouse was what she served for dinner. Pot roast and the most wonderful Mac & Cheese I had ever had in my life!

Ahhh, now I get it. There will never be a Mac & Cheese that will measure up to those memories. Never. Because it's not about the Mac & Cheese at all. It's about the feelings that I have associated with Mac & Cheese and have tried to replicate all these years. Looking back, I can remember that her Mom's Mac & Cheese was served at just about every family dinner I attended. It was always there. And it was always my favorite. I knew I could count on it, just like I knew I could count on their family to be there for me and to make me feel special.

So, the search for the perfect Mac & Cheese has ended. I realize now that I wasnt really searching for Mac & Cheese. I have been searching for and holding onto the comfort and security it provided many years ago. I guess that security and comfort is why I have always felt that Mac & Cheese should be a part of family gatherings. Because to me...it symbolizes everything that family should be. I am forever grateful to her family and especially her Mom for taking me in and making me feel so special. It is because of her example that I love putting together extravagant birthday celebrations for my family where there is ALWAYS Mac & Cheese! I love that my children LOVE their birthdays! I LOVE that they feel special!

Thank you so much for the very special memories and for loving me like one of yours! Your hospitality and compassion will never be forgotten as it is forever etched in my heart and on the hearts of my children.

And now that I know why my soul craves Mac & Cheese, I also know that it is more about Love than anything and I can embrace it. Here's to Mac & Cheese and celebrating those that we love!

I remember thinking I knew it all when I was in high school. I thought I knew myself and everyone else better than they knew themselves. I remember thinking my parents were ridiculous. How could they be soooo dumb? I seriously remember thinking I was smarter than they were and why did I need parents, after all, I could take care of myself. I can laugh about this now and have many times in an effort to get through this time with my young adults.

I have taken on the role of the "dumb parent". My young adults look at my husband and I like we are so "out of touch". How could ANYTHING we have experienced as a teenager be remotely similar to what they are going through now? After all, that was back in the 80's! I feel like I have lost all control of my kids. But, the reality is that they are just spreading their wings and pushing us away in an effort to gain their own identity and independence.

I am continually getting the "OK Mom" and "Are you serious?" from one or the other of them as I try and relate to them. In their minds I am so "old school", so "lamo". My efforts to instruct and/or reprimand are interrupted by lengthy debates by which they intend to get their way. And, I have been known to fall victim to their very hypnotizing methods of persuasion. It's infuriating when you realize that they have pulled one over on you! Nonetheless, I press on in an otherwise successful mode of parenting.

Through the years, I have prayed the same prayer over and over in hope of keeping up with my kids. Much to my kids dismay and unfortunate capture, it works every time. I simply pray "Lord, let me see what I need to see". That's it. It is unbelievable how this simple prayer can make the lives of teenagers so transparent. A word of caution: This prayer will result in your "eyes wide open" and you will see what the Lord wants you to see whether you like it or not and whether you want to deal with it or not. The things that God wants you to see may be scary and always humbling, I can promise you that. A word to the wise: never say "not my kid" because as sure as you do...it is "your kid".

I am forever grateful to my precious Lord for the evidence he has placed in front of me over the years. I have felt God's gentle hand upon my cheek as he turns my head in the right direction. I dare to think of how the lives of my children may have been different had I not had the grace of another set of eyes. God is good and I feel so blessed.

Kids will be kids and they are going to get into things that they shouldn't. They managed to do it at two years of age and they will do it at 15, 17 and 19. As parents we have to put forth the extra effort to stay in step with our kids. I know, we're tired, we're old and they run at a much faster pace. That is why we must seek the help of an extra pair of eyes. God has a much better view from above. And all we have to do is ask!

Live in joy,

Kim

Wondering through the aisles of Walmart in search of "who knows what", I often find myself among the magazines. I guess I would have to say that this is my favorite place in Walmart. I tend to gravitate there. I LOVE their large selection of magazines and the wonderful variety of books they present. I can stand there for half an hour(ok, an hour and a half) perusing every cover of every magazine that catches my eye. I browse through each one and stop when something beautiful catches my eye or a title draws me in. Sometimes I stand there so long that I forget why I came into Walmart. LOL. I think that's the point.

Upon one of my recent visits to the magazine aisle, I ran across a title of an audio book that caught my eye. I was literally running by as I only had a few seconds to browse! The title of the book was Women Food and God and it had a pretty blue cover so I bought it. What the heck, the title was catchy and the cover was pretty. And...I have been a sucker for books on weight loss since I turned forty!

I left Walmart upon finding my other necessities and tossed the bag into the back of the car as I hurried on to my next task. The following day I noticed the bag in the back of the car and took out the audio book. Eager to listen to it, I put it in the cd player and was immediately entranced! The author began to talk about our relationship with food. She said "our relationship to food is an exact microcosm of our relationship to life itself". WHAT?

She went on to say that "we are walking, talking expressions of our deepest convictions; everything we believe about love, fear, transformation and God is revealed in how, when and what we eat." Seriously? Ok, I had to keep listening! 

I thought about the times I had noticed that I was eating when I wasn't hungry or eating when I was anxious or angry. But, I never thought that it was anything more than just that. To think that everything I believed about love, fear, transformation and God could be revealed in how, when and what I was eating? She had me hook, line and sinker!

Since I turned forty, my weight had changed from a nice 125 lbs to a not so nice 150 lbs. Not that I am overweight by others standards, just my own. I have even been told that I have nothing to be complaining about as I am smaller than alot of Moms at my age, etc. etc. Ok, ok, probably true, but, nonetheless, I am miserable with myself and I am obsessed with dieting and finding the right way to lose the weight and look like I used to at thirty! It feels like a losing battle. Well, at least, a very frustrating battle as I have managed to lose inches and gain great muscle tone with my efforts in weight training but have only lost a few pounds and gradually gained them back as my eating patterns returned to my old habits. Coincidentally, I have also noticed that I am more anxious than I have ever been in my life. I am dealing with so many emotions on so many levels. Could it be as simple as my eating habits being directly related to my emotions?  I'm listening...

The author says "If we are interested in finding out what we actually believe--not what we think, not what we say, but what our souls are convinced is the bottom-line truth about life and afterlife--we need look no further than the food on our plate".  WOW. Can she be right?

I think she is. I know she is. The more I listened, the more I began to see that my eating habits were not about food at all. In fact, I noticed that the very times when I was overeating were the times that I was the most stressed, anxious, tired, frustrated, forgotten, unappreciated, disrespected. And there were many times that I could remember eating when I felt lonely or afraid. I would grab some popcorn or ice cream or both! And would feel better...at least for a few minutes until the reason I was afraid, stressed or anxious came rushing back. Then, I would go to the kitchen again in search of something else to take my mind off of whatever it was that I was trying to forget or subconsciously push away. The problem with this is that the fear or feeling of being unappreciated or whatever it is that is subconsciously haunting me still exits after the food is gone! I am still hungry...just not for food. Now, I am seeing an end to my weight problem.

I found it interesting that she believes as children we learn to close ourselves off to pain. We learn to separate ourselves from hurtful, scary, otherwise uncomfortable situations. We withdraw and build walls to protect ourselves. She believes that at some point in our lives we have turned to food for comfort in an effort to sooth and/or protect our souls. Transported back to my childhood, I totally get this.

As a child, I learned to suppress my feelings and fears in an effort to protect myself. I learned to block out what was uncomfortable and stressful. I learned that by being good I didn't create additional conflict. The very emotions that I learned to suppress, ignore and dismiss are the very reasons that I overeat today. As an adult, when I am anxious or afraid or alone, I reach for something that comforts me, like ice cream, rather than dealing with whatever it is that is making me feel this way. The solution to ending this vicious cycle is allowing myself to feel the anxiety rather than covering it up with ice cream. I can no longer run from my emotions. Gaining and consequently, losing too much weight via a restrictive eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia, are direct results of emotions that are out of control and/or pushed aside.

Upon finishing the series, I am convinced that this is book may just be the answer I have been looking for. Over the past few days, I have tried with much success to hit my emotions head on. To allow myself to feel my emotions rather than suppress them. To eliminate the voice of my childhood that harms me in an effort to protect and soothe my soul. I am a grown up now and I do not need to rely on Hostess Twinkies to deal with my emotions.

Now...I can eat Hostess Twinkies because I like Hostess Twinkies and will have them in place of dinner if I so choose. I eat when I am hungry to feed my body as God intended. I feed my soul with respect for my emotions and allow myself to feel when I need to feel, hide when I need to hide, cry when I need to cry and laugh when I feel joy. Most importantly, I do not apologize for any of it. Emotions are a gift and a gentle cleansing if we allow them to be so.

Look at your plate. What is really on it?

Women Food and God by Geneen Roth  A truly amazing reality, go get yourself a copy!