tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61907849835951131512024-03-05T23:40:18.689-06:00Southern Girl in the Real WorldJust life in general for this Southern girl.Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.comBlogger257125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-76019220804699201082018-08-25T02:27:00.001-05:002018-08-29T13:45:28.141-05:00QuietI'm not sure what it is about the middle of the night. It's always in the dead of night, when I'm alone with my thoughts, that I feel prompted to write. I think the biggest reason is all the noise in life. "Noise" has such a loud and harsh connotation. "Noise" is what adults are always hushing in children. "Noise" is what keeps an outside of town dweller from sleeping while visiting a big city. But noise isn't always bad; it isn't always loud. "Noise" can be friends laughing and catching up after months or years apart. "Noise" is a new member of the family crying. "Noise" can simply be the gentle hum of routine during your day. Noise surrounds us constantly. It can be audible noise, sensory noise, written noise, screen noise. The thing we don't get enough of is quiet.<br />
<br />
When we are quiet, it allows our brain to focus on one thing: us. Our thoughts and feelings that aren't readily available during daily life are filtered to the surface. I know that not everyone is like me, and that some people are very decided feelers or thinkers. Everything they want to say comes right out, in the correct way, the first time. Some people immediately know when that twinge of feeling rises, the name and cause of the emotion. But for people like me, that twinge is nameless. It's felt too deep inside to dig out at a moment's notice. Those thoughts seem lost somewhere in the back of your mind, and even when you will them to come out of your mouth, they spill forth like a tangled mess. I believe that everyone needs quiet, but especially people like us. It allows the time and space to process those thoughts and emotions. To give names to everything and file it in the proper spot.<br />
<br />
Quiet isn't just for processing. It is for creativity. So often that word is associated with crafting or making something tangible. That is the most visual result and usually what one is trying to attain. But creativity in itself is something more than a product. Creativity is a frame of mind. It is cultivating new ideas. A melding together of perception, intellect, imagination, and experience. When you are given the quiet, and the mental space to produce creativity, there is so much good that can come from that.<br />
<br />
I believe quiet is also for healing. In addition to the healing that our bodies receive when our bodies are asleep, or quiet, there is also healing when our minds are quiet. Maybe you are like me and sometimes the quiet allows you to think "too much." I have often felt that way. But instead of running away from those thoughts and feelings that are trying to surface, if we process and work through them, I really believe healing can come from that. It's not pleasant nor easy. It will be painful. Believe me, I know the mental anguish that comes from replaying a painful conversation over and over in my head, feeling the same each time as I felt in that moment, even if it happend years ago. Or dwelling on a damaging even that occurred, wondering what you could have done to prevent it. Wondering why it even happened in the first place. But there is a place we can get to if we do the hard work of processing through all of that mess. The way we process might be different. Maybe quiet isn't the first step for you, or maybe you need someone to help you process through everything. But in the end, to be at a place where you can still your thoughts and be at peace, that is a beautiful thing.<br />
<br />
Quiet is a beautiful thing.Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-84257396647646493782018-08-01T15:26:00.000-05:002018-08-01T15:26:30.005-05:00My journey to healthI started a journey to being healthier not quite a year ago. It started around September 2017. (I had to stop and think what year it was. Somehow it doesn't seem like it should be 2018.) I don't really recall what exactly sparked the decision to do something I've toyed with and talked about for years now. I do remember a podcast that was on the topic of fertility and hormonal birth control that started a research frenzy. And I will be honest in admitting that a large part of my drive to be healthier is driven by the desire to start a family in the near future.<br />
<br />
I know I had enough of being utterly exhausted, not able to keep my eyes open in the evenings, for no apparent reason. I had enough of gaining and gaining weight. I had enough of a poor diet. I had enough of a sedentary lifestyle.<br />
<br />
So here's a little about my journey to being healthier.<br />
<br />
The first problem I wanted to tackle was my exhaustion. I do not have a physically taxing job, nor did I feel like I didn't sleep at night, so I had no idea why I was so very, very tired all the time. It was bad enough that I would get really sleepy on my 20 minute drive home from work. I would literally fall asleep at my desk daily. I could not stay awake no matter how hard I tried. It was negatively impacting my work and my relationships. As I was listening to the podcast mentioned above, something was said about the tiredness that is a side effect of hormonal birth control. My ears perked and my interest immediately peaked.<br />
<br />
As a teenager, about age 15, there was a time where my period went for three months straight. I bled for that long. That is not healthy at all, and my mom took me to see a gynecologist. He didn't do an exam, but prescribed a birth control pill to stop the bleeding. It accomplished that, and I took it for a year, until the prescription ran out. I wasn't keen on going back to the doctor, and my mom agreed that we could see what happened when I got off the pill. So I did, and things went back to normal. Fast forward years later, and I didn't get back on hormonal birth control until about 6 months before my wedding. I knew that we didn't want to try for a baby right away, so I did what everyone does, and got a prescription from my doctor. I did the Nuvaring this time, and for 5 years, was seemingly happy with it. It wasn't until I started having all these issues that I even questioned it.<br />
<br />
In addition to the tiredness, I had been unable to lose weight. I had been trying for months, counting calories, and couldn't lose a single pound. What's worse is that I seemed to be gaining in spite of my efforts to lose. That didn't add up for me. Also, this is uncomfortable to talk about, but it's so important to me that I share my experiences with others so that it might help someone else struggling. I had lost my libido. My sex drive was non-existent. I haven't always been that way, but it had been a gradual decrease over a couple years to nothing. This was obviously causing an issue in my marriage, because that is an important part of a marriage relationship! No, that isn't everything, but it is an important component of a healthy marriage. I didn't realize it at the time, but the hormonal birth control was causing that side effect for me. Not many women realize that can be a side effect.<br />
<br />
So after I heard the information on the podcast, I deep-dived into research. I scoured the internet for reliable sources (hard to find sometimes!) about how hormonal birth control works and the ways it changes your body. After tons of reading, and talking with my husband, we agreed that I should go to the doctor and see if we could figure out what was going on. So I went to a new gynecologist and had my normal yearly exam. While talking to her before my exam, I expressed concerns about the exhaustion, the inability to lose weight even with counting calories, and the loss of libido. She suggested that we do some extensive blood work to see what the issues might be. She ran my iron, vitamin, thyroid, and hormone levels. The results came back that I had a slightly low functioning thyroid, was deficient in vitamin D, and low testosterone levels. All of these things contribute to the issues I was having. So she prescribed me a thyroid medication, over the counter vitamin D supplementation, and we discussed how to address the low testosterone level. There were a couple options, but during my research, I had read that hormonal birth control can contribute to low testosterone levels, so I decided to try getting off the Nuvaring, and see if my levels would increase naturally. We also discussed an alternative birth control method since I was getting off the hormonal birth control. She wrote me a generic prescription for a diaphragm. Yes, those seem super archaic to most people, and you even have a hard time finding a pharmacy that will fill it! But there is a new version called Caya that is available through a mail order pharmacy. I was able to pay for it out of pocket, they mailed it to me, then filed for reimbursement from my insurance company. It was a bit of a hassle, but worth it for what I was trying to accomplish. Along with the Caya, I purchased the Daysy fertility monitor. There's more info about that in the previous post.<br />
<br />
After finishing a cycle with the Nuvaring in November 2017, I didn't start a new one. The immediate result was a return of my libido. Like I said, this is super awkward to talk about, but it's important! In the years and months before that time, I really began to question what was wrong with me. Why was I broken? Why did thing not work for me like they used to? I finally found the answer, and I was not broken. Things really have gotten so much better.<br />
<br />
After getting off the Nuvaring, I started tracking my cycles using the Fertility Awareness Method. You can find more info about that on my previous post, or by googling it. This has really given me so much information and insight on how my body is or isn't working correctly. It's been fascinating! I know I will be able to use this information in lots of ways- seeing when my period is due, knowing when something isn't right and I need to see a doctor, avoiding pregnancy right now, and eventually using the same information to get pregnant later. I highly recommend it.<br />
<br />
Another thing I began was taking supplements. I already had been taking a prenatal vitamin, at the recommendation of my previous gynecologist. She suggested that all women in child bearing age take them, not just women who were planning to get pregnant soon. So I had been taking an over the counter prenatal vitamin for about 2 years at that point. Which is crazy considering how low my vitamin D levels were, even with supplementation! So on top of continuing my prenatal vitamins, I added the over the counter vitamin D supplement that the doctor recommended. Also, I added a couple other supplements that were recommended based on the research I had done. Hormonal birth control leads to deficiencies in several minerals and vitamins, so I wanted to boost those as well. In retrospect, I might have gone a little overboard with one of them, so please consult a doctor before you decide to take a bunch of supplements.<br />
<br />
I also started working on my diet. I have never been one to fad diet. If I even tried something, I never stuck with it for more than a week. So I knew that a fad diet wasn't going to be the answer for me. There is also so much conflicting information on what diet you should follow. All I knew is that I should watch my calories, and eat a balanced diet with lot of veggies and fruits, and not much sugar and simple carbs.<br />
<br />
At the beginning of the year, my sister, mom, and I were having a discussion about being healthy and exercising. None of us had a sustainable exercise program, and we all needed it badly! My sister suggested a personal trainer that she had worked with in the past. So she made the call and got things started. We each found a time and class that worked for us. I go to a small gym three times a week in the afternoon, and work out in a group of people who match my exercise level, with the personal training directing our workouts and providing advise and oversight, should we chose, on our diet and tracking our weight. I have never enjoyed exercise before. It's always been very hard on me both because I have never been in peak physical condition, and because I have asthma that can be triggered by exercise. Every time I started to consistently exercise, I would get so discouraged by the lack of progress I would make. This time, he started me off really slow, and gradually worked me up to where I was keeping up with the group. Now I can do everything that everyone else is doing. It is very challenging for me, but I really enjoy it now! The people are great, and I feel good after working out. For my personality, I needed the accountability that comes with working with a personal trainer. I know he expects me to be there, and because of that, I show up consistently. I am loving it more than I ever thought possible.<br />
<br />
So at this point, I have been tracking my cycles for several month, trying to get things to even out after coming off the hormonal birth control. It's not been all smooth sailing. I have run into a snag where I am experiencing a super long cycle and there's no end in sight right now. I have made an appointment with my doctor to get my blood work redone and see what's going on and what we might can do about this. Not having a period is not healthy. It might sound good, but it means something is out of wack and not working properly. You don't get a true period if you aren't ovulating, and if you aren't ovulating, you can't get pregnant. So that will be an issue in the near future when we decide to try for a baby. I want to get things figured out now rather than waiting until we are wanting a baby, and having to do more invasive things then. So that's my focus right now.<br />
<br />
I've also encountered some cystic acne that is problematic. Most likely it's a result of a hormone imbalance- the same one causing my missing period. I suspect my levels of testosterone are too high at this point. I guess I did a too good job of raising it! We will see what the blood work shows when I go to my appointment in a little over a month. I hate waiting that long, but that's the only time they had available.<br />
<br />
It might seem weird to some that I'm sharing so much personal information on the internet. I usually do not share this type of personal information, but I really feel that I should share with others, and this is my outlet to do so. If I can help one woman who is struggling and frustrated that her body isn't working, then I will have accomplished something. If you need someone to talk to, I am more than happy to listen or answer questions.<br />
<br />
It's an ongoing journey to be the healthiest person I can be.<br />
Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-56800988629060773932018-07-29T01:36:00.003-05:002018-07-29T01:36:59.383-05:00An uncomfortable topic you can't afford not to talk about*Disclaimer: If you are a man, I'll warn you now that I'm going to talk about super female stuff. But I think men should be educated, because they have sisters, wives, and daughters that this stuff impacts. <br />
<br />
**Also a disclaimer: I am NOT a medical professional, nor am I giving medical advice. I am only expressing my opinion and things I've learned. I encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider and most importantly, <b style="font-style: italic;">do your own research! </b>Don't just take someone else's word for it, even if they have a medical degree. Do your homework and be your own advocate!<br />
<br />
I have a subject that I've developed a huge passion for. It's not something that's often talked about in public, most definitely, but also not talked about between friends and confidantes either. That subject is female fertility. No, this doesn't just refer to getting pregnant and having babies, although that is a large part of it. It refers to the whole life cycle and monthly cycle that women go through. Not just periods either. Women were made to function around cycles. You hear a lot about hormones, but rarely in a good light. But we literally function around a raising a lowering of different hormones at different times. It's amazing to learn about the functions of each and how they impact EVERYTHING about our bodies, minds, and emotions. There are also different changes and bio-markers that our body has that indicate where we are in this cycle. And let me just clue you into one thing: it's a total MYTH that a "normal" menstrual cycle is 28 days and you're supposed to ovulate on day 14. While this may be true for a small group of women, it is BY FAR not the norm. There is a large range of how many days a healthy menstrual cycle should be. I could go on and on about all the things I've learned. But here's the kicker: I have been a woman all my life (ha) but there is no much I NEVER knew about my own body until less than a year ago when I began this journey to health and healing. <br />
<br />
Another thing I've learned that I feel so strongly about, and wish I could tell every woman from age 12-60: Hormonal birth control is not the only option, nor is it the cure-all that doctors and others make it out to be. Now, I am not morally opposed to hormonal birth control in and of itself. I myself was on it for several years. There are many reasons that women take birth control, and that is completely valid. I just want women to know it's not the only option out there! I wish more doctors that prescribe it and women who take it every day knew more about how it works, side effects, and alternatives. If I had known then what I know now, I really think I would have made another choice, or make the decision to stop taking it sooner. Also, I just have to say this: just because you stop taking the pill, doesn't mean you're automatically going to get pregnant. I know there is a lot of push back when someone makes this decision, from doctors and from other women in their life. But don't let their biased opinion stop you from what's right for you.<br />
<br />
I mentioned earlier that women were created to revolve around a cycle. Being on hormonal birth control stops this cycle. Most of the hormonal birth control options out there are synthetic estrogen and progesterone. It actually decreases the testosterone in lots of women and creates estrogen dominance. And yes, women do need certain levels of testosterone. The levels of these three hormones, and several others, are mean to rise and fall in a pattern, to allow your body to function as it needs to. Even the week when you are taking the placebo pill, and you bleed, that is not a true period. It's a withdrawal bleed prompted by the lack of estrogen in the placebo. When you interrupt this cycle, it causes side effects. Notwithstanding the serious ones, such as stroke, blood clots, and heart attacks, there are some women who experience weight gain, loss of libido, extreme tiredness, deficiency in vitamins and minerals, anxiety and depression, stomach issues, and more. I experienced most of these myself, but it took me so long to realize that the hormonal birth control was a contributing factor. I'm not going to blame all my problems on it, but it was definitely a factor.<br />
<br />
So, you're probably asking "What is the alternative?" (that is, if you have dared to read this far!) Well, I'm going to be honest. There are no magic and super convenient options. This is a large part of the reason that so many women utilize hormonal birth control. I'm not going to go through all the options, as you have the internet readily available to you and can find those on your own. But I will share what I've found that I liked.<br />
<br />
There is a company that has been in the fertility business for over 30 years. They have developed a device called Daysy. It is a small, hand-held device that measures your basal body temperature and what days your period occurs and it tells you with red, green, and yellow lights where you are in your cycle and if you are fertile or not. Red means fertile, you could get pregnant if you have unprotected sex. Green means you are not fertile and you are safe to go unprotected. Yellow means Daysy is still learning your cycle or your cycle is fluctuating, and you should stay protected if you don't want to get pregnant. This device is 99.4% accurate with perfect use (no unprotected sex on red or yellow days). In comparison, most hormonal birth control is said to be 99.9% with perfect use (never miss a pill, taken at the same time every single day), 91% with typical use. (Which, to be honest, is mostly how people take it. I can't say I ever had perfect use when I was taking it.) On days that are red or yellow, most people elect to use a barrier method or abstain. Here's the website if you are interested: <a href="https://usa.daysy.me/">https://usa.daysy.me/</a><br />
<br />
Something else that has been super useful to me is learning Fertility Awareness Method (FAM). There are several schools of thought for this method, but most of them involve basal body temperature every morning, learning patterns of how your cervical fluid (aka "discharge" is how most people know it, and it's completely normal and healthy) changes through your cycle, and sometimes a couple other bio-markers. This has been super educational for me on how my body works and being in tune with where I am in my cycle. This system is useful for avoiding pregnancy and achieving it too. The knowledge works both ways.<br />
<br />
I highly recommend that every woman reads the book "Taking Charge of Your Fertility" by Toni Weschler. You can find it on Amazon <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Taking-Charge-Your-Fertility-Anniversary/dp/0062326031/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_img_0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=7HR7T5ERZNVQXYZN6B39">here</a>. I don't care if you haven't the slightest interest in anything to do with Daysy, FAM, cervical fluid, basal body temperature, or getting pregnant, and you plan to stay happily on hormonal birth control forever- Please read this book! It is a wealth of information about the female body. Everyone needs to know this! I wish I had read this as a teenager. She actually has a version for younger girls too, which is fantastic. This book can be a bit overwhelming because of it's size, but it's not a novel, it's a reference book. You don't have to read it cover to cover to find it useful.<br />
<br />
Now that I've gotten that off my chest, there's something else I want to address. Women need to be talking to each other about this stuff- about sex, about fertility, about their bodies. There are so many women who suffer in silence, not able to talk to their mothers, their friends, their husbands or even their doctors about something that seems so intimate and embarrassing. Believe me, I know! I hate having super awkward conversations. It's not easy for me to open up about super intimate things. But when you think something isn't quite right, when you're struggling with something, speak up! Most likely, you are not the only woman in the world dealing with a particular issue. You are "normal!" I was having a really hard time with something, and googling it wasn't getting me anywhere. I dealt with this issue for MONTHS, not knowing what to do. I finally asked my gynecologist about it at the end of my yearly appointment, almost chickening out, and it was a super simple fix, something that could be changed and made better. It was super awkward for all of 5 seconds, then there was so much relief! Find that person you can confide in. Maybe it's your mom, a trusted friend, a doctor you trust. Find that person and work up the courage to address and issue. There is so much healing and relief in getting something like that off your chest. Maybe you find out that you are not abnormal, it's not your fault, it's something that they also struggle with. Can you image how much better you'll feel? If I can be that person for you, please let me know! I would love to talk with you over the phone, a message, or in person. I love talking about all this, so I would be more than happy to be a listening and compassionate ear. Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-15667704896029322412016-09-28T09:24:00.001-05:002016-09-28T09:24:31.940-05:0028 on the 28th<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8mzapqXbqmwNBjCy_hr8oC0R7l3OaFBiLgbEur61SL_Id7BZpowGH9aGEhH3MJCaDpbj0lbJzAKFKbaodefbn0mt0axt5bJ44XivpQIcaE2iIBfNbtfCrGJxvVJXA9LHT5ROSAilw_o/s1600/th+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8mzapqXbqmwNBjCy_hr8oC0R7l3OaFBiLgbEur61SL_Id7BZpowGH9aGEhH3MJCaDpbj0lbJzAKFKbaodefbn0mt0axt5bJ44XivpQIcaE2iIBfNbtfCrGJxvVJXA9LHT5ROSAilw_o/s320/th+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I wrote a post on my birthday last year, so I thought I would continue the trend this year. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today I am 28 years old (28 on the 28th!). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's some things I'm loving:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My amazing husband of almost 4 years</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My wonderful family </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My awesome bonus family</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Vanilla iced coffee from Chick Fil A</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Podcasts and audiobooks</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The fact fall weather has FINALLY arrived</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My Happy Planner</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Premier Jewelry</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Embroidery</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Things I'm learning:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm learning to be content with where I am right now. I love my life and the people and things in it. I don't need to rush the future. God has it all worked out in his timing, not mine!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm learning to love myself. I have always been so very critical of myself- my body and my personality flaws. I am trying to be healthier, but I need to embrace how I am right now, in addition to trying to better myself. I also have learned more about my personality and what makes me tick. It's so enlightening to realize why you are how you are and that there are other people like you!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am becoming more comfortable with who I am. I don't let other people and what they say bother me as much now as I did before. Unlike a lot of people, I am looking forward to the last couple years of my 20s, and moving into my 30s. </div>
<br />Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-65310316404589993032016-07-22T10:00:00.001-05:002016-07-22T10:00:30.970-05:00"Tiny House" Living<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwnSP7zuy28UTCiwgfF3hidB2__dTYGHJIbDuNUarGN_MNsENoNtx2xPL438okzJmh7PyzM-m1TT6I3yHpcPHghcn3_3TnnWd8bSbCzVx-7KHsmPQaWg8Y871AJX0m46wTINN7chQynE/s1600/Less-is-more.__quotes-by-Ludwig-Mies-van-der-Rohe-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwnSP7zuy28UTCiwgfF3hidB2__dTYGHJIbDuNUarGN_MNsENoNtx2xPL438okzJmh7PyzM-m1TT6I3yHpcPHghcn3_3TnnWd8bSbCzVx-7KHsmPQaWg8Y871AJX0m46wTINN7chQynE/s320/Less-is-more.__quotes-by-Ludwig-Mies-van-der-Rohe-17.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I was cleaning and picking up our new little abode last night and was thinking about our "tiny house" living. There are a few things I've learned in the month we've been living in the travel trailer.<br />
<br />
1) We really can get by on way less stuff. One example is in the kitchen. Ok, I have to confess, I LOVE dishes and kitchen gadgets. But I really paired down on our kitchen supplies. For one thing, we haven't been using an oven or stove. If I want to cook a proper meal, we go to the house. Otherwise, we have a toaster oven and a microwave. Also, we had planned to use paper products while living there, so I didn't pack many plates and bowls. We haven't bought paper products, but I had two plates and three bowls that were left out from the dishwasher of our apartment when we moved. So we have been using just those, and hand washing often. I haven't hated hand washing dishes as much as I thought I would!<br />
<br />
2) Clothing: I worked a lot on my wardrobe when we were living in our apartment. We didn't have much storage or closet space there either, so I worked to pair down my clothing. Another reason I downsized was because I was holding on to many items that didn't fit, or that I just didn't like! There's no reason to have those items around. I don't quite have a capsule wardrobe yet, but that is my ultimate goal. So my clothes now fit in the small closet in the bedroom plus a small three drawer plastic bin. Jason's clothes are mostly in the dresser in the bedroom and a few pieces in the closet.<br />
Shoes and accessories were also paired down. Though I still have probably 14 or 15 pair of shoes and of course I still have lots of jewelry! As my part time job, that jewelry makes me money, so it can stick around!<br />
<br />
3) Living space: I thought I would quickly get cramped in our living space. The living room/kitchen/diningroom isn't very big! It's about the size or smaller than just the living room we had at our apartment. And the bedroom is tiny! There is enough space to walk at the foot of the bed, that that's about it! Thankfully, it's a king size bed tho! We did upgrade our mattress space from the queen sized bed we had at the apartment. But I have found that it really is ample space for me, Jason, and our two dogs. Now, if we didn't have a huge area for the dogs to run and play, that would be different, as our boxer Barrett is high energy! He can get his energy expended outside and be more relaxed inside. And the bathroom is very small if you have two people in it at once! I also think Jason would prefer a bigger shower at some point. But for now, if one person is in the bathroom, it's pretty efficient. There's more storage space than expected as well.<br />
<br />
I really think I can take these insights to heart in our next home. I have been trending towards a more minimal lifestyle when it comes to stuff. Now, I will not have bare shelves and bare walls, but my focus is more "what are the things that I LOVE and are useful" not "keep all the things that I kind of like and might be useful one day in the future!" There's a huge difference. I have a natural tendency to be a saver, sentimental, a pack rat, or whatever you want to call it, but I truly want to make room for more people and more experiences rather than more stuff. Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-32141019368577641552016-07-07T10:38:00.001-05:002016-07-22T09:30:09.239-05:00Itty Bitty Living Space<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iMhGD7Xd3pIQkaJfaB4-T2BUMrbfeidqJZJf-cUhOiKTa6mh9Upm5za57NIX7WUVthGvD9Pce0lYX_ymlLKfHKb8MR-ZBPsDUKOFpASK3uBfmrdwjk46fcpoBoJZZZK69c9UTGOwkbg/s1600/2016-06-27+08.01.57-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iMhGD7Xd3pIQkaJfaB4-T2BUMrbfeidqJZJf-cUhOiKTa6mh9Upm5za57NIX7WUVthGvD9Pce0lYX_ymlLKfHKb8MR-ZBPsDUKOFpASK3uBfmrdwjk46fcpoBoJZZZK69c9UTGOwkbg/s400/2016-06-27+08.01.57-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is our new home for the next few months. It's been a long, hard summer so far, but suffice it to say, we are so glad to have the opportunity to live here! We are basically tiny house living for a while!<br />
<br />
We have only been in the camper for a couple weeks now, and I am sure we will learn lots about living in a small space. I do have to say, that my parent's house is right next door, which is wonderful when we need a break from the smallness, or have a problem (like no A/C last night!) and can go stay at the house. So grateful for them!<br />
<br />
So far, so good! We like our little space. There is lots of storage for our essentials. We have all our furniture and non-essentials in storage, and just brought what we need for a few months in the camper. I think these weeks ahead will teach us that we can live with a lot less stuff than we are used to. This year especially, I have focused on pairing down on the stuff, and keeping only the things that are useful and that I love. It has been freeing! I have also made a little money along the way by selling things I didn't need anymore- upwards of $100! <br />
<br />
Whether you live in 2,000 sq. ft. or 200, make the most of the space you have. It feels so good to have things organized and put together. It is hard work and always a work in progress, but worth it in the end. Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-16257681751732899122016-04-21T10:13:00.000-05:002016-04-21T10:13:12.991-05:00Why?I have come across this question in several places: What is your why? <br />
<br />
Most recently, I signed up for Money Saving Mom's 14 day online course, Make Over Your Evenings. You can find more info about the course <a href="http://www.makeoveryourevenings.com/">here</a>. The very first day focuses on that question. Another place I have heard the question is with Premier Designs training. You need to know your "why" in your business.<br />
<br />
Why is it important to "know your why"? In order to make a change or stay the course in your life, you need to know the reason behind what you are doing. If you don't know why you're doing what you're doing, it will be hard to follow through.<br />
<br />
Why am I trying to establish an evening routine? Why do I want to get up earlier in the mornings? Why do I want to have a home embroidery business? Why am I selling Premier Designs jewelry? Why am I focusing on being healthier?<br />
<br />
With every important task you are trying to accomplish in your life, you need to know why you are doing it. Not just the surface reason, but the underlying, life changing reason you are doing that particular thing. <br />
<br />
This seems to be the thing that will make the difference in meeting your goals and getting where you want to be in your life. <br />
<br />
Do you know your whys?<br />
Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-77157688648786108892016-03-21T12:00:00.001-05:002016-03-21T12:00:57.963-05:00Rest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-EfuyNpOru9hCJEwPMSUr5llrfBqUC01KOmnGGXQO7I_jFh7LYL5psrF6xMjFRWwSLYmZZ6-FAsO_-LKFXKpfr2CWIVnzR1FcFi5KAvhUhbbv6_yBOscc8mO4WBvhhn2m0PBo9CIrmQ/s1600/e308e419f4eec92ac0d5a6fbeeb3deba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-EfuyNpOru9hCJEwPMSUr5llrfBqUC01KOmnGGXQO7I_jFh7LYL5psrF6xMjFRWwSLYmZZ6-FAsO_-LKFXKpfr2CWIVnzR1FcFi5KAvhUhbbv6_yBOscc8mO4WBvhhn2m0PBo9CIrmQ/s320/e308e419f4eec92ac0d5a6fbeeb3deba.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This past week was Spring Break for the college, so Jason was home all week. While we don't get off for Spring Break at work, I decided to take three days vacation at the end of the week. My plan was to get some rest, spend time with Jason, and get a few things done around the house.<br />
<br />
I started my first couple days of vacation by resting! We stayed home and spent some time together watching sports and some Netflix. When Friday rolled around, I was motivated to get things done! Jason went to work on our future rental house, and I vacuumed the house. And by vacuum, I mean the floors, the walls, the baseboards, the blinds- Everything! Then I cleaned all the carpet. I felt rather accomplished, but worn out. Jason came home not too long after lunch, then I went to get my hair done. I love getting my hair done! Makes me feel so good. After that, I headed back home. I wound up having to cancel our vet appointment because my hair appointment ran long, but I figured we would get to it later. Plus, I had many other things on my list to get done, including helping my brother move to his new townhouse on Saturday.<br />
<br />
Well, apparently my body had other plans. I had been struggling with my allergies all week. The pollen outside is crazy! It's everywhere. Welcome to spring here in Mississippi. The allergies combined with my mad house cleaning did me in. I started with a bad asthma attack Friday night and it lasted all of Saturday. I started feeling a little better Sunday, but I was still wiped out. Let me tell you, it's a frustrating thing to deal with. Thankfully, I had all the medicine I needed to deal with it at home and didn't have to go to the doctor. Of course these things happen on the weekend when normal offices aren't open, and I didn't want to go to the ER! ($$$$)<br />
<br />
So I spent all of my vacation resting. And you know what? That is ok. I am as guilty as anyone of having long to-do lists and a myriad of things I want to get accomplished in a short amount of time. Sometimes it takes sickness or injury to make us stop and rest. Maybe if we did it more often it wouldn't come to that! I am seeing more and more the importance of taking time to rest. <br />
<br />
If you are a planner girl like me, schedule it in your week! It doesn't have to be on Saturday or Sunday. Often times we are so busy on the weekends. But take an evening or two and dedicate them to resting. Your body and mind will thank you!Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-54826661704997411262016-02-08T11:25:00.001-06:002016-02-08T11:28:46.610-06:00Re-evaluating 2016 Goals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZT3KSumG2-_pb4wKHyUmqWbWD-BS3k2cD1wcYm2m0VF50H_PG6Fps2eqH1ttOeW7p-IynTaAEoDOIyPJoTGAubweoMMUaq1QPHvuKmdrdQIt7Hd2UBfP1Dgd86r7dpEV0FNISy8W5ds/s1600/goalsfor20163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZT3KSumG2-_pb4wKHyUmqWbWD-BS3k2cD1wcYm2m0VF50H_PG6Fps2eqH1ttOeW7p-IynTaAEoDOIyPJoTGAubweoMMUaq1QPHvuKmdrdQIt7Hd2UBfP1Dgd86r7dpEV0FNISy8W5ds/s400/goalsfor20163.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's the second week in February, so now is a good time to re-evaluate the goals that I made for 2016.<br />
<br />
So here's how it's going so far:<br />
<br />
<b>Health- </b>I have failed at drinking more water! It is so hard for me to even think about drinking water. I am the kind of person that can eat a whole meal without a drink, so I really have to be more diligent about reminding myself to drink more.<br />
<br />
I have been doing OK with exercise. I need to make more progress and up my time each time I work out.<br />
<br />
I also haven't been good about sleeping! Even the nights I have been asleep for 8 hours, I do not feel rested. I think there are several contributing factors, so I will be working on those and being more consistent in my sleep patterns. I have set three alarms on my phone to help me with this: the first at 9:30 pm to get ready for bed (pick out clothes for the next day, fix lunch for work, do dishes or clothes, or whatever other housework-type things), the second at 10:00 pm to go get in bed (put away the phone and either read or talk), and the third at 10:30 pm to wind down and be ready to sleep at 11:00 pm. Going to bed at 11 and waking up at 7 should give me 8 hours per night. I will try to stick to this schedule (roughly including weekends, so I don't get off track) for a few weeks and see if 8 hours a night is sufficient for me.<br />
<br />
<b>Marriage- </b>I have yet to read a marriage book yet! Still looking for good suggestions and a thrifty way to procure them. <br />
<br />
We had one date night in January, where we make homemade calzones and watched two movies. I enjoyed it! We have Valentine's Day coming up next weekend that will be a date night- probably another at home date night, but those are fun too! I haven't planned the second one in February yet.<br />
<br />
I have been much better with the phone! We actually switched our phone plan to one with no data, so when we are out and about there is no social media or news distracting us. <br />
<br />
<b>Personal- </b>I have been slow about my reading. I didn't finish an entire book in January, but started a couple. My hope is to finish those in February.<br />
<br />
I am listening to podcasts and periscopes when I have downtime at work. I am really enjoying it!<br />
<br />
I have not practiced crocheting since Christmas, but I have done lots of monogramming!<br />
<br />
<b>Business/Work- </b>I haven't been as consistent with my business Facebook page as I would like. I really need to take advantage of the post scheduling option.<br />
<br />
I have worked more on embroidery and posting pictures of what we have done online.<br />
<br />
I have also learned a couple new tasks at work.<br />
<br />
<br />
Did you make goals or resolutions for 2016? What progress have you made so far?Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-17267431782813015502016-01-28T09:55:00.000-06:002016-01-28T09:55:27.015-06:00More Offline<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4zcwsikioCBD3oQS7goK0jhW8FPA-E9rrLtOcGsr548hs6PAo8LEP0_-35OcN6JPMOpyDE39NQioiuo3BtfyWtkNOE5tb6aD2HXlolzf-FLbJ7fOIW987waXW44gr4nUtlmMjYsbtZo/s1600/offline.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4zcwsikioCBD3oQS7goK0jhW8FPA-E9rrLtOcGsr548hs6PAo8LEP0_-35OcN6JPMOpyDE39NQioiuo3BtfyWtkNOE5tb6aD2HXlolzf-FLbJ7fOIW987waXW44gr4nUtlmMjYsbtZo/s320/offline.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Just last week we made a change to our cell phone plans. We went from having an unlimited data plan, to having no data at all. Seems like a pretty radical thing to do. <br />
<br />
There was one main reason we made the switch- because of the money. We are going to be saving $70 a month by lowering our plan. We did have to buy out our contracts, but this will still save us money in the long run. And without contracts, we can change our plan however we like in the future without any extra fees.<br />
<br />
The second thing was kind of an unintended consequence. We are offline more. Now, we both still have our iPhones, but we can only use our data on a wifi connection. It has been a problem before, mostly with me, that I spend way too much time online, specifically on social media. Now, when we go to dinner or are in the car traveling together, there's no Facebook to interrupt us.<br />
<br />
I love the internet. I love how you can find the answer to almost any question with a quick internet search. I love how I can keep in touch with friends and family who live states away. But it has seemed to creep into every free moment that I have. It takes away those moments to just think and dream. It takes away awareness of your surroundings.<br />
<br />
I work on a college campus and it only takes a short walk to see students passing each other and staring at their phones or having their earbuds jammed in their ears. No one connects anymore, not really. The human connection is lessened. Using our senses is reduced to one dimension. <br />
<br />
Take some time to unplug and stay offline this weekend. Enjoy your family, friends, or something else you enjoy. Pick up a book. Walk the dog. See how refreshing that can be.<br />
<br />Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-73391237135992503422016-01-12T10:02:00.000-06:002016-01-12T10:02:02.921-06:00Why Be Debt Free?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvu1_i4FYO25tkic53w8zOPDe7zqMdjMCmIamNVxDzpJ1BqmHgjMWR7GM0GRxucmQmqLKF6t9mvap3WxMjcSmfGCv72_7A9r60_2FKIfEW-o8DfQkBrrp3nnYCqxJ_Nj70DttNH1usIY0/s1600/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvu1_i4FYO25tkic53w8zOPDe7zqMdjMCmIamNVxDzpJ1BqmHgjMWR7GM0GRxucmQmqLKF6t9mvap3WxMjcSmfGCv72_7A9r60_2FKIfEW-o8DfQkBrrp3nnYCqxJ_Nj70DttNH1usIY0/s400/th.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I am sure you have heard people talk about being debt free or living debt free. You might have a strong opinion to one side or the other, or you might not have thought too much about it. <br />
<br />
Jason and I are working to become debt free. We have a plan in place to eliminate all our personal loans and credit cards in the next couple months, and another plan to be done with vehicle payments in 3 years. Student loans (Yikes!) will be next. Our plan is to be debt free except for a house note eventually. (And maybe paying off the house early...you never know!)<br />
<br />
There are a couple of reasons that we want this to happen.<br />
<br />
1. So much of our income goes to debt payments! I actually added it up one time, and it was shocking. The amount of money that we were paying towards debt was over half our bills. Just think of what we could do with that money if not paying other people! There are much better things to do with your money than make payments.<br />
<br />
2. If we are able to use our money differently, we would be able to save! We would like to ideally have an emergency fund (3-6 months income put away) and a rainy day fund (money for when appliances break, cars need repair, etc.). Then there are fun things like vacation funds, new car funds, house down payment funds. So much possibility!<br />
<br />
3. This is probably my biggest reason for wanting to live debt free- Giving. There are numerous times that I would like to help someone or give them something, but we just don't have the money for me to do it. I could be a blessing to someone else if I had the means to do so. Sure, I try to do things that don't cost money, like encouraging, writing notes, texts, phone calls, etc. But if I had a little money to put towards those actions, I could do so much more!<br />
<br />
What is your response to debt free living?<br />
<br />
<br />Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-6122883410978884582016-01-08T10:08:00.003-06:002016-01-08T10:08:57.943-06:00What is in My Earbuds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwopIvc0st794CnxyAGYFMTW1MKxDn2viTo1FnqV88afeMoiEvdFZL2QrfyVBw1tjEDSDUgEPe2PZZ6ZV5l1l3sxP46lWMO7GhrTUUy2xAAKn3nN-78tZv-UXBN7DaF4cJ0BPQnysXElQ/s1600/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwopIvc0st794CnxyAGYFMTW1MKxDn2viTo1FnqV88afeMoiEvdFZL2QrfyVBw1tjEDSDUgEPe2PZZ6ZV5l1l3sxP46lWMO7GhrTUUy2xAAKn3nN-78tZv-UXBN7DaF4cJ0BPQnysXElQ/s400/th.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In addition to my goal of reading more this year, I am also enjoying listening to different things too! Here is a list of the things I am enjoying listening to. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">@BOLDturquoise on Periscope: Mackenzie Monroe has a morning show each morning about 9 am CST. It's called Cultivating the Lovely and it's all about becoming the moms, wives, sisters, friends, and women that God wants us to be. She is so encouraging each morning. Often she reads scripture or is going through a Bible study with the Cultivating the Lovely community. I never miss her morning scopes! I have very much enjoyed listening to Mackenzie! Find her on the Periscope app, and watch her past videos at <a href="http://www.katch.me/boldturquoise">www.katch.me/boldturquoise</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">@stacymakescents on Periscope: Stacy is hilarious. She gives you a no-nonsense, practical, and humorous perspective on saving money, living godly, homemaking, and so many other things. She has so much great information! She normally scopes around 3 p.m. CST. Find her past videos at <a href="http://www.katch.me/stacymakescents">www.katch.me/stacymakescents</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">@moneysavingmom on Periscope: Crystal Pain, who you've probably heard me talk about before if you've followed me for any length of time, is a great inspiration and godly woman. She also has a daily morning show where she shares tips and advice on how to live intentionally. Crystal is also a mom and online business owner. I love the encouragement and advice that she gives! Find her past videos at <a href="http://www.katch.met/moneysavingmom">www.katch.met/moneysavingmom</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cultivating the Lovely: The Podcast: Mackenzie Monroe from Bold Turquoise also has a podcast! She often interviews other women and talks about a variety of topics. It is different than her daily morning show, but so good! Search for Cultivating the Lovely on whatever podcast program you use.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sorta Awesome Podcast: Megan Tietz hosts a podcasts that is an "in-depth analysis of pop culture, all things intentional living, and the next big thing you didn't know you couldn't live without." I am really enjoying listening to Megan, her co-hosts, and guests. You can also search for Sorta Awesome in your podcast program.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I really enjoy listening to different things during my downtimes. Whether it's a work or home while I'm doing chores, it's a great time to listen to a short scope or podcast. Also good for a long drive!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What are you listening to currently?</span>Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-54285667855085879602016-01-06T14:04:00.002-06:002016-01-06T14:04:07.542-06:00Why I Gave Up Plastic Containers<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;">Not too long ago, I made the decision to throw out all my plastic food storage containers. They are so convenient, and you can even get some for free if you buy lunch meat from certain brands, but I have a couple reasons why I decided to throw them out. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;">First reason is that they seem to grow exponentially and they NEVER stay organized. Ugh. I hate that. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;">Second, is that they stain and do funky things when you put certain foods in them. They are hard to get really clean! Yuck.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;">Third, when I heat my food up in them, the food tastes like plastic! Also yuck.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;">So, that is why I decided to switch to glass food containers. I wasn't able to do this until Christmas, because I asked for some Pyrex glass containers for Christmas. So yay!!!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px;">I feel like this is one small decision to make my life a little easier and maybe healthier too!</span>Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-17258723620011955392016-01-06T09:10:00.000-06:002016-01-06T09:10:48.507-06:00Goals so far...We are 6 days into 2016! Here's a little bit about how my goals have been going this week.<br />
<br />
Health: I have not done well with sleep lately! I'm averaging less than 6 hours a night this week. Not cool. But we have been busy, and my husband isn't back in school yet, so that has kinda made our schedule different. I am working on drinking more water, but haven't hit my goal in that yet. I have made progress walking! I walked on my treadmill for an hour on Monday, and yesterday I painted for 3 hours, so I think that's an acceptable substitute! I am also watching what I am eating as well. A friend of mine started a private Facebook group that is an accountability/encouragement group for accomplishing whatever health/fitness goals you have this year. I think it will be good!<br />
<br />
Marriage: We haven't scheduled our date night yet, but it will happen this month! At some point...<br />
I think I am doing better with the phone as well. Anyone have a book recommendation about marriage? I'd love to hear them.<br />
<br />
Personal: I am getting back into my routine of listening to podcasts and periscopes during certain times in my work day. I love listening to the ladies I follow and learn from them. I am also reading my first book of 2016, <i>Full Disclosure </i>by Dee Henderson. It is a Christian fiction suspense/romance novel- my favorite category! Love it.<br />
<br />
Business: I haven't gotten back to posting on my business pages yet, but plan to work out a schedule today for that.<br />
<br />
What are your goals and aspirations this year?Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-5385282475462963102015-12-31T23:00:00.001-06:002015-12-31T23:01:17.777-06:00Goals and My Word for 2016<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">New Year's is a time for reflection and for many, resolutions for the brand new year. I have tried resolutions in the past, and usually they fall absolutely flat. The reason I constantly failed at my resolutions is because it was one lofty goal without a plan to succeed. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Instead of a resolution, this year I am choosing a word for 2016, and a list of specific, attainable goals for myself. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It took me a little while to decide on a word for 2016. I had in mind the idea I wanted to focus on, but I had to find the right word. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I decided on "Purposeful."</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Merriam-Webster defines purposeful as "having a clear aim or purpose; meaningful, intentional, full of determination." I love this. So often I go through life without a clear aim. Sure, there are things I want to accomplish, but more often than not, I go through my day without doing a thing to accomplish them. I want my days to be working towards goals, dreams, and being the woman I am meant to be. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I follow Mackenzie Monroe from Bold Turquoise on Periscope. She has a morning show and a podcast called "Cultivating the Lovely." I love the tagline she has created: "P<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">our(ing) labor, care and study into making our lives more lovely. It's all about pressing into the roles that God has given us and doing them to the best of our abilities, in His strength and guidance." I love the "labor, care, and study" part. That's what I want to do. To work and learn each day and be the wife, future mom, daughter, sister, friend, and woman that I am meant to be.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">So, in order to cultivate lovely and learn to be who I am meant to be, these are the goals I have decided to work towards:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><b>Health: </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">I need to focus on being more healthy. I have a chronic condition and several current health concerns that require me to strive to be healthier.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Hydration- Drink more water! I will drink 80-100 oz of water each day. I have a 20 oz tumbler, so 1 before breakfast, 1 before lunch, 1 after lunch, 1 when I get home from work, and 1 after supper. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Walking- Use my new treadmill to walk at least 1 hour per day, 5 to 6 times a week. I can also track my steps using my new FitBit that I got for Christmas! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Get more sleep- I will strive for at least 8-9 hours of sleep per night. I require more sleep that the average person to really feel my best. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Nutrition- Shop for better quality food, cooker healthier meals, and eat better all around. I will also be diligent about taking my vitamins and supplements every day. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><b>Marriage:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">I really want to focus on growing in our marriage this year. This will be year four for us! I want to focusing on growing closer to each other. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Dates- 2 date nights together each month. Doesn't have to be something big, just something we purposefully plan ahead of time and do together.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Knowledge- Read at least 4 marriage books this year. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Phone- Put down my phone when I come home from work. I won't look at social media or spend time browsing. I will answer texts and calls, but that's it!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><b>Personal:</b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">I really want to be able to pour into other's lives, so it's important that I continually fill myself up.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Reading- Read at least 1 book per month. I have already started my list and will post about it soon! This weekend: <i>Full Disclosure</i> by Dee Henderson.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Podcasts and Periscope- Listen to the two podcasts and 5 Periscopers that I follow at slow times during the day. They really fill me up and help me grow!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Crocheting- Keep practicing!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Sewing- Learn to use the quilting machine, sew stockings and a tree skirt before next Christmas.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><b>Business/Work:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Premier- Post consistently on my Facebook business page. Host sales and specials each month. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Embroidery- Work on doing more samples and posting more to the Facebook business page.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">Work- Keep learning new tasks and roles.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">That's it for now. I also plan to update these during the year, including monthly breakdowns. I would love to talk to you about my goals, and about yours too! If you would be interested in an accountability group, please let me know!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">So, Happy New Year from this Southern Girl, to you and yours!</span></span><br />
<br />Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-15802450063118633572015-12-17T11:34:00.001-06:002015-12-17T11:38:33.288-06:00Our Christmas Tree Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWRpbvHiKWGiKSvSAnV9oS6dElKT4riCIvmbfsmCQj2ws8oYt_P8Q6xsI6JUlvzOysGjD14wkW8_lRrvsiJ6oAQ-r4v7SCV5DXqZ9Lk4VKDW3fT6UEFw9O02c_Ul9RVL1SSlc0r8inUg/s1600/2015-12-14+19.18.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWRpbvHiKWGiKSvSAnV9oS6dElKT4riCIvmbfsmCQj2ws8oYt_P8Q6xsI6JUlvzOysGjD14wkW8_lRrvsiJ6oAQ-r4v7SCV5DXqZ9Lk4VKDW3fT6UEFw9O02c_Ul9RVL1SSlc0r8inUg/s640/2015-12-14+19.18.56.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is a picture of our Christmas tree this year! Since moving back to an apartment last year (in December!), I didn't think we would have a lot of room for a tree, so I bought a tiny little 4 ft. tree. This year, we upgraded to a 6 ft skinny tree! I love how it turned out.<br />
<br />
I shared in a previous post about my parent's Christmas tradition of buying an ornament for each year and adding it to their tree. We have also followed this tradition! Here are pictures of our ornaments so far!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDV6L39o3foubEAE4SXTfxF1YPRFSfI43BQo7VVLi7Rpgw5cu49oYXvCVUiJdxA6OeEbreSji57EqF3xIBxO8GSALxi0SAVSwcojhPn6rp4LA-dHB8OVWExDHtj4crTdF6Mmz3FO2GYs/s1600/2015-12-14+19.13.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDV6L39o3foubEAE4SXTfxF1YPRFSfI43BQo7VVLi7Rpgw5cu49oYXvCVUiJdxA6OeEbreSji57EqF3xIBxO8GSALxi0SAVSwcojhPn6rp4LA-dHB8OVWExDHtj4crTdF6Mmz3FO2GYs/s320/2015-12-14+19.13.06.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2010: This is the year we met and started dating. Jason came with me to Texas to meet my parents and we took a trip to the Alamo in San Antonio. While browsing the gift shop, we came across this ornament and decided to get it. We both had an idea that we were going to be together. :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWJBbNSZfxqIFzTOiscYvW3lHMnt1Pb3V1Mcz3bkAJOsliKjboK1Kvm4VV4VRYq8ieQqe0M8z8r4cKFfR04uj3X8O_z4GY3i1KW_-hLhk1HPE-QeDhFVmVYJ0SWksu8jqP0Xnj77501s/s1600/2015-12-14+19.13.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWJBbNSZfxqIFzTOiscYvW3lHMnt1Pb3V1Mcz3bkAJOsliKjboK1Kvm4VV4VRYq8ieQqe0M8z8r4cKFfR04uj3X8O_z4GY3i1KW_-hLhk1HPE-QeDhFVmVYJ0SWksu8jqP0Xnj77501s/s320/2015-12-14+19.13.29.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2011: We found this little guy at Tuesday Morning. He's handmade in Germany! We just thought that was cool. We were engaged when we got this ornament.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwDhtlWazSYA_jkZ-eF4w2z49KLJKIEw7Gcg9pl_y2uFwU7BT98SwdnPmgk7UyTloACLSXiklyeN24aENHUZE6curi1oBFlDeTdeR__DxEtUqKFiUA8ThzPcGUtIlmojeY7IbqEFS5gQ/s1600/2015-12-14+19.13.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwDhtlWazSYA_jkZ-eF4w2z49KLJKIEw7Gcg9pl_y2uFwU7BT98SwdnPmgk7UyTloACLSXiklyeN24aENHUZE6curi1oBFlDeTdeR__DxEtUqKFiUA8ThzPcGUtIlmojeY7IbqEFS5gQ/s320/2015-12-14+19.13.47.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPY9OjNlVmcY92U7Jc65oDUcPJrTvfUwgww_iclqOAVoouVjGtbI29kDrGrhcdLWyPu1wMJR8HGod88xTwLaO0IbfyFZVrWb2-YATzSVgTu4NhtvZRWY1tJ3_RoEFYcXX43Vd-f3jRVc/s1600/2015-12-14+19.13.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPY9OjNlVmcY92U7Jc65oDUcPJrTvfUwgww_iclqOAVoouVjGtbI29kDrGrhcdLWyPu1wMJR8HGod88xTwLaO0IbfyFZVrWb2-YATzSVgTu4NhtvZRWY1tJ3_RoEFYcXX43Vd-f3jRVc/s320/2015-12-14+19.13.56.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2012: We got married! This was a wedding gift we received, and it </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
was the perfect ornament for that year. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiaM45LPfaEUbHNMSDPebegokIrzk8hGeq_78yY7Klj0yKeHEs4WYe6jBoGpvkzcr06YYXNBM7qcUy2QslXpjcNWUnYAkM5TBGgxaWRSP3KSFCOqzHXD4soHmT77s2lkMesCzrSRlZDro/s1600/2015-12-14+19.14.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiaM45LPfaEUbHNMSDPebegokIrzk8hGeq_78yY7Klj0yKeHEs4WYe6jBoGpvkzcr06YYXNBM7qcUy2QslXpjcNWUnYAkM5TBGgxaWRSP3KSFCOqzHXD4soHmT77s2lkMesCzrSRlZDro/s320/2015-12-14+19.14.56.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2013: I got this little owl from an ornament swap we had at the bank I worked for. He's special because he's from The Mustard Seed, a community for adults with disabilities, where they can live, learn, and grow. They make ceramics to sell to the public to support the ministry. Each ceramic has the date and the name of the Seedster who made it! I have several pieces from them, and want more!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You can check out their website at <a href="http://www.mustardseedinc.org/">www.mustardseedinc.org</a> for more info!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheIiCrIlcdpzw654h5EeDGS0yVIctyzuG95lcFulOAfEXx__k04wgC2fPt11I5JDk2m7iN80ls40GPkmAgYvKehwlMhCmkjhqaIPCuYix1XpKXOfGYBDeeYwsJ9fQsIpBGdUQcJbNw_QE/s1600/2015-12-14+19.15.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheIiCrIlcdpzw654h5EeDGS0yVIctyzuG95lcFulOAfEXx__k04wgC2fPt11I5JDk2m7iN80ls40GPkmAgYvKehwlMhCmkjhqaIPCuYix1XpKXOfGYBDeeYwsJ9fQsIpBGdUQcJbNw_QE/s320/2015-12-14+19.15.39.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhin40Fi8I0yOsS2Yt85TftyopUqHsWBKZRwTjt9CPCt63WCgMwW5FZN0xe3vXL9cYfVSfEwBEWCAlqix7Q9hZpAxScgcscLYfzlj0b9A4xG02q1nmAVrmU_nAvuF9k7lAGhrBIyWg8ahg/s1600/2015-12-14+19.15.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhin40Fi8I0yOsS2Yt85TftyopUqHsWBKZRwTjt9CPCt63WCgMwW5FZN0xe3vXL9cYfVSfEwBEWCAlqix7Q9hZpAxScgcscLYfzlj0b9A4xG02q1nmAVrmU_nAvuF9k7lAGhrBIyWg8ahg/s320/2015-12-14+19.15.46.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2014: There were big changes for us in 2014! We decided to leave the Jackson, MS area and move back to Starkville! This ornament was actually given to us at our wedding, but we decided it was the perfect ornament for 2014.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We don't have a 2015 ornament yet, but when we do, I will update this post!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are a few other special ornaments that made the cut onto our tree this year:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTRLK7TXufvHhQg3KWhUXv4pLZIqqbPd4FN4z_4MAYzxTsZY68JKtnAaLhQhP8X7kACJ-cziEPFdiAZrzNhsWuUU-RqnLroE07Jf3XwgcMVdsXkFVdSbCJYsFcGLRyyMat5vEkJHxJSc/s1600/2015-12-14+19.16.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTRLK7TXufvHhQg3KWhUXv4pLZIqqbPd4FN4z_4MAYzxTsZY68JKtnAaLhQhP8X7kACJ-cziEPFdiAZrzNhsWuUU-RqnLroE07Jf3XwgcMVdsXkFVdSbCJYsFcGLRyyMat5vEkJHxJSc/s320/2015-12-14+19.16.10.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This one is special because it was made for me by a friend. She used our wedding invitation to create the scrolls of paper, added some sparklies, and embellished with a ribbon (in our wedding color: Maroon!) and our last name initial. I love it! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I also have an ornament with dried rose leaves from my wedding bouquet. I forgot to get a picture of it though!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8bqWRre5wAXAhP5qPU-iOYlGQV3mg31XmgqYdNyGljNjsq7cw4BeFGuyhsjAEJziCEmB_K2DD07V3_3hbcp6hirEzVeEW5Cgxn6GdqAY5Sz8HzLKbRwMmhs-T8O0-qG2YVmtQ2TguTY/s1600/2015-12-14+19.16.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8bqWRre5wAXAhP5qPU-iOYlGQV3mg31XmgqYdNyGljNjsq7cw4BeFGuyhsjAEJziCEmB_K2DD07V3_3hbcp6hirEzVeEW5Cgxn6GdqAY5Sz8HzLKbRwMmhs-T8O0-qG2YVmtQ2TguTY/s320/2015-12-14+19.16.28.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGFJ4vCTlkPxwg-FL6Dqp78DPcNV5KNHERxHv1ReUvKUb6MKMz24jp6EObAUTT23UJulDCIg9U_h0MAcsEYD7eDkg0DCNhEvjOsKMa_EhFj_jBuVKwPlNO5T-ocLHJ4yjoXXkFOMEt7I/s1600/2015-12-14+19.16.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGFJ4vCTlkPxwg-FL6Dqp78DPcNV5KNHERxHv1ReUvKUb6MKMz24jp6EObAUTT23UJulDCIg9U_h0MAcsEYD7eDkg0DCNhEvjOsKMa_EhFj_jBuVKwPlNO5T-ocLHJ4yjoXXkFOMEt7I/s320/2015-12-14+19.16.41.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtgcTF7sdajTvuFNbb8E7ALMU1z6mogJZgdUZuNFzte6LSE6Nt7LBnl7U_1-0rtlgU9S4dp70nSnPlPTBpRZ82wXSQu-bT26TdURKSren9vqqdMg0daWs7ZkFvsVaJdrsQETXe5yiOdoM/s1600/2015-12-14+19.16.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtgcTF7sdajTvuFNbb8E7ALMU1z6mogJZgdUZuNFzte6LSE6Nt7LBnl7U_1-0rtlgU9S4dp70nSnPlPTBpRZ82wXSQu-bT26TdURKSren9vqqdMg0daWs7ZkFvsVaJdrsQETXe5yiOdoM/s320/2015-12-14+19.16.50.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihf2WHn6fAzQ448zsr2YmIqo0jZ2H7Au4eKcnSLnX2AhqWABVgRBiuhvV0qIfnnkFBYcZYAXoH64UbWAmbqV7BBOBeWHUfO6T-4y66cZ3vKl3NjDPMRpBaO0sCCfkDMgjSPh_-D6O3cak/s1600/2015-12-14+19.16.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihf2WHn6fAzQ448zsr2YmIqo0jZ2H7Au4eKcnSLnX2AhqWABVgRBiuhvV0qIfnnkFBYcZYAXoH64UbWAmbqV7BBOBeWHUfO6T-4y66cZ3vKl3NjDPMRpBaO0sCCfkDMgjSPh_-D6O3cak/s320/2015-12-14+19.16.55.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkrvVDahOwz37hpkFNkPA1LSJqJoWbLBDUenq8XAPuMWlx1ZXzBooKYvc0LQWA1Sa_a5W5MqFB4SD3Hznmu1LJdZWPlUS4W2Lc4cYpIl02wc5eLpKJLMLjUyoayD41UTKO2ELUdQoJWmo/s1600/2015-12-14+19.17.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkrvVDahOwz37hpkFNkPA1LSJqJoWbLBDUenq8XAPuMWlx1ZXzBooKYvc0LQWA1Sa_a5W5MqFB4SD3Hznmu1LJdZWPlUS4W2Lc4cYpIl02wc5eLpKJLMLjUyoayD41UTKO2ELUdQoJWmo/s320/2015-12-14+19.17.25.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYBPj_REvC_UrRSI7S2SCXtBKrqVaFY9mzI9m61dly30OnEMQSaDCFX4gB3DTG1kky4Wq1io0GqAtv9Dw-pYduZRfqiEWVGHWuJL3V8UwkOPdCqML2gecQQTGepgBZT9ZENjmZI5xFNA/s1600/2015-12-14+19.17.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYBPj_REvC_UrRSI7S2SCXtBKrqVaFY9mzI9m61dly30OnEMQSaDCFX4gB3DTG1kky4Wq1io0GqAtv9Dw-pYduZRfqiEWVGHWuJL3V8UwkOPdCqML2gecQQTGepgBZT9ZENjmZI5xFNA/s320/2015-12-14+19.17.37.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All of these ornament above are from Austria! My family made a trip to Austria in 2009 (I believe) around Christmastime. The Austrians decorate the whole city of Vienna and in the squares set up Christmas markets, and I bought these at one of the markets. It was an awesome, once in a lifetime, trip for our family.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOxfJrSSCotGQvTg7Zhkiv7WhjDNHmeyRFZdnzOPL1DIb7ZQSjUZKanYzHc_PLxrlD6SDaRgcps3S4kB2f6NTLyVfFDb7M5jeo8vqBLlgvWoIBvYJFKJ7FyQfMGvhPTjalrnYa-4aTCPg/s1600/2015-12-14+19.18.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOxfJrSSCotGQvTg7Zhkiv7WhjDNHmeyRFZdnzOPL1DIb7ZQSjUZKanYzHc_PLxrlD6SDaRgcps3S4kB2f6NTLyVfFDb7M5jeo8vqBLlgvWoIBvYJFKJ7FyQfMGvhPTjalrnYa-4aTCPg/s320/2015-12-14+19.18.26.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our tree topper is new this year. My mom and I embroidered this angel on her sewing machine, then assembled her. I absolutely love my angel tree topper!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's a peek at our humble little tree. What is special about your Christmas tree this year?</div>
Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-42321221739309955112015-12-16T10:40:00.001-06:002015-12-16T10:40:56.159-06:00Christmas Gift Guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ZDVI4A-V4ke7zgLy_q1fA1LzWyDBeYP1BC9iBKsrLjf0FDQQSc7cNTD7rdMsWEzxQpZYw0-YKTYKuxyFABkO3_TLYRyGRo1bpWzHh_x5UHpgl25tpUrTK1GLdpJn743PWLmNVrCnGxs/s1600/download+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ZDVI4A-V4ke7zgLy_q1fA1LzWyDBeYP1BC9iBKsrLjf0FDQQSc7cNTD7rdMsWEzxQpZYw0-YKTYKuxyFABkO3_TLYRyGRo1bpWzHh_x5UHpgl25tpUrTK1GLdpJn743PWLmNVrCnGxs/s1600/download+%25284%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Do you have all your Christmas shopping done yet? I am almost done! Just a couple small things left, then wrapping!<br />
<br />
If you are in need of some last minute gift ideas, here are a few to get you started:<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Support small businesses: </i> If you need a last minute gift, consider buying from a small business! Whether it's the little store downtown, or a friend who has a direct sales business, it's easy to buy local! You are also supporting a family instead of a large company. That makes me feel good about what I am buying.<br />
<br />
<i>DIY it: </i>There are SO many great ideas for DIY Christmas gifts! Just Google it, or search Pinterest. You'll be sure to find the perfect gift for that hard-to-buy-for friend or family member. There are even great ideas for guys too!<br />
<br />
<i>Consumable gifts: </i>Everyone these days has too much stuff! Why not give the gift of a consumable? For the years that have been lean (like this one!), I do a Christmas tin full of goodies for family. I can get tins or baskets at the Dollar Store, and the ingredients to make candy or baked goods are usually pretty affordable. This year, I made white chocolate truffles, candied peanuts, and salted caramel oyster crackers. The recipients love my homemade treats, and it is still a thoughtful gift. You can also do something like a sauce or spice rub. I have done both in the past, and had good success. Beauty products are also a hit. I made my own shaving lotion/ hand cream last year and scented it with peppermint oil. Even my dad loved it! Especially in the winter when you have dry, cracked skin, it's great. Search Pinterest for some great ideas!<br />
<br />
Here's a free tip: buy brown shipping paper at the Dollar Store to use for wrapping, and decorate with ribbon and metallic sharpies! Super cute and very affordable!<br />
<br />Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-21045789343804929912015-12-07T15:54:00.001-06:002015-12-07T15:54:54.937-06:00How Crunchy Do I Want to Be?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSLscWggMPfRh0DTrtKpsl9pLn4hRjD-3fBnRcGzTwelxU7NUOpbw8rfO3mLd_zdVXUnP066aekJ3zphRADWd09N88IQzpRB1NGL-eV5bxOzZ5BmvD7ilbB7HQqCiJ5l6EAEoZl_f1mqg/s1600/Granola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSLscWggMPfRh0DTrtKpsl9pLn4hRjD-3fBnRcGzTwelxU7NUOpbw8rfO3mLd_zdVXUnP066aekJ3zphRADWd09N88IQzpRB1NGL-eV5bxOzZ5BmvD7ilbB7HQqCiJ5l6EAEoZl_f1mqg/s320/Granola.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">No, this is not referring to granola. But it's a catchy title and graphic, no? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is the definition of "crunchy" from Urban Dictionary: "<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">A member of an increasingly growing group of moms who are neo-hippies. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;">They generally believe (for varying reasons) that there is something bad or less beneficial about buying mainstream products or doing other common activities in the mainstream way." Check out the whole article <a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Crunchy+Mom">here</a>. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;">So, basically being "crunchy" is being natural, and using natural products. Now, I am far far far from being a hippy. No sir. But, there are certain "crunchy" things that appeal to me. Things like farm-fresh eggs that we have enjoyed for the past year, money-saving things that also happen to be natural. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;">Now, I am NOT making an announcement, but I am the kind of person who plans 10 years into the future, so I have been thinking about when we have babies. Reiterate: no announcement here. Just my crazy planning brain. Anyway, there are a lot of decisions to make about even just the beginning! What method of birth (hospital/home, medicated/natural), breastfeeding or bottle, homemade baby food or store bought, cloth or disposable diapers, etc, etc, etc. It's a lot to think about! I think I need to start deciding now, because everyone knows I take 3 years to decide anything. Sigh. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;">I decided to start looking into this whole essential oils thing. I must admit, it intrigues me. So I started reading a ebook on safe essential oil use. Talk about overwhelming. I was thinking there would be a few dozen oils to choose from. Try 100's. Yikes. I have a lot of reading to do! Anyone have experience with oils?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;">What kinds of "crunchy" things do you do, or appeal to you?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span>Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-49796520766868319692015-12-04T10:29:00.001-06:002015-12-04T10:29:37.078-06:00Getting in the Christmas Spirit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZOQAHKn58k4W66t9LQKZ4QEYG88xTytjsnt-j262A4I_zP3_gkeon4Xorv-s19at6iKpXBO15kOrhNG6GzfiAIPl9-OzNIAE-ZYVBnqHhTIJMzV5WeVfgMMph0OAXxD4zjhR2eiCJRA/s1600/xmas_charlie_brown-580x408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZOQAHKn58k4W66t9LQKZ4QEYG88xTytjsnt-j262A4I_zP3_gkeon4Xorv-s19at6iKpXBO15kOrhNG6GzfiAIPl9-OzNIAE-ZYVBnqHhTIJMzV5WeVfgMMph0OAXxD4zjhR2eiCJRA/s400/xmas_charlie_brown-580x408.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I am strictly a no-Christmas-before-Thanksgiving kind of girl. You know what they say about elves and baby reindeer... So, now that it after Thanksgiving: Bring it on! Some years it takes me a couple weeks to really get in the mood for Christmas. Some years, I get right into it. I am kind of in between this year. I have been really busy this past weekend and week, so it has been interesting to get my Christmas decorating done (started Wednesday night, still isn't done). We are also in the midst of Finals Week for my husband, which is lots of studying and me trying to stay out of the way. Even though I've been busy and tired, I really am eager to get everything decorated, and I've started listening to Christmas music! One of my regular stations is playing Christmas music all month long.<br />
<br />
I love all the nostalgia that comes with the Christmas season. I love helping my mom decorate her house for Christmas (Which we will finish this Saturday!). Putting up our family tree brings back lots of memories, as the dated ornaments remind us of different events and happenings in our family. I love the decorations that were around during every Christmas growing up, like our Santa house and snowy church. Brings about warm memories and feelings.<br />
<br />
I am working to create the same feeling with my Christmas decorations, but it takes a while to get to where I want to be. Working with limited funds, I have to be creative in selecting those decorations that my future kids will remember fondly for years to come. I am happy with our Christmas tree (though it could be bigger!) this year. I will post about our tree later.<br />
<br />
I also mailed out my Christmas cards yesterday. First year I have done Christmas cards! Plus, I got them for free plus shipping from Shutterfly. Yay for a good deal!<br />
<br />
What are you doing to get in the Christmas spirit this year?<br />
<br />
<br />Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-34451263248610125932015-12-01T13:48:00.000-06:002015-12-01T13:50:24.836-06:00Thirty Days of Thankfulness: Day 30<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s1600/Giving+Thanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s320/Giving+Thanks.JPG" width="222" /></a></div>
<br />
I forgot to post this yesterday! But I made it through all 30 days in November posting about all the things I am thankful for. <br />
<br />
I hope this prompted you to think of the things you are thankful for as well! It make me realize that I have SO MUCH to be thankful for in my life. There are amazing people, opportunities, and comforts that I enjoy daily. It really is amazing when you stop to think about all that you have been blessed with. I want to continue being thankful. Instead of blogging through December, I am going to use my Gratitude Journal that I got from Money Saving Mom. You can find a link to amazon where you can get one of your own below.<br />
<br />
I think it is so important for us to continually be grateful. It saves us from not being content in our circumstances. How can you be unhappy when you think of the many, many things you have been given? Especially this Christmas season, with all the gift giving. It is easy to be discontent with a gift you receive. But thinking of all that you already have will help.<br />
<br />
Thank you to all my readers who stuck with this series with me!<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=sougirinthere-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=1424549302&asins=1424549302&linkId=2FUMWYPOKJCBL2OD&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></p>
<p>
</iframe><br />
<br />
*<i>Affiliate Link</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-1-and-2.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 1 and 2</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 3</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 4</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-5-and-6.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 5 and 6</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-7-and-8.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 7 and 8</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-9-and-10.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 9 and 10</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-11.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 11</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-12.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 12</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-13.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 13</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day14.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 14</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-15.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 15</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-16-and-17.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 16 and 17</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-18.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 18</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-19-and-20.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 19 and 20</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-21.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 21</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-22.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 22</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness.html">Day 23</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-24.html">Day 24</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-25.html">Day 25</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-26.html">Day 26</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-27.html">Day 27</a><br />
<div>
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-28.html">Day 28</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-29.html">Day 29</a></div>
Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-17267205420976402972015-11-29T10:00:00.000-06:002015-12-01T13:48:53.382-06:0030 Days of Thankfulness: Day 29<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s1600/Giving+Thanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s320/Giving+Thanks.JPG" width="222" /></a></div>
<br />
Second to last day of this series!!!<br />
<br />
I hope you have spent lots of time with your family, and have had a chance to relax before going back to the grind on Monday.<br />
<br />
Today is all about relaxing and family. We will be spending a leisurely Sunday morning at home resting, then heading over to my parents' house to decorate the tree together. <br />
<br />
When do you put up your Christmas decorations?<br />
<br />
Tomorrow is the last day! Make sure to come back for the recap.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-1-and-2.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 1 and 2</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 3</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 4</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-5-and-6.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 5 and 6</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-7-and-8.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 7 and 8</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-9-and-10.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 9 and 10</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-11.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 11</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-12.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 12</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-13.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 13</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day14.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 14</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-15.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 15</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-16-and-17.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 16 and 17</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-18.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 18</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-19-and-20.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 19 and 20</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-21.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 21</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-22.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 22</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness.html">Day 23</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-24.html">Day 24</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-25.html">Day 25</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-26.html">Day 26</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-27.html">Day 27</a><br />
<div>
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-28.html">Day 28</a></div>
Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-2285595689862423602015-11-28T10:00:00.000-06:002015-12-01T13:49:13.288-06:0030 Days of Thankfulness: Day 28<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s1600/Giving+Thanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s320/Giving+Thanks.JPG" width="222" /></a></div>
<br />
Today is Small Business Saturday! I am thankful for small businesses. The one I own, and the ones I love to shop from. I feel so much better knowing my money is going to help a family, rather than a corporation. Don't get me wrong, I do shop a big stores, but I find much more satisfaction in shopping local and small.<br />
<br />
Who is your favorite small business?<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-1-and-2.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 1 and 2</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 3</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 4</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-5-and-6.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 5 and 6</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-7-and-8.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 7 and 8</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-9-and-10.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 9 and 10</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-11.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 11</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-12.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 12</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-13.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 13</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day14.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 14</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-15.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 15</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-16-and-17.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 16 and 17</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-18.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 18</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-19-and-20.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 19 and 20</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-21.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 21</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-22.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 22</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness.html">Day 23</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-24.html">Day 24</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-25.html">Day 25</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-26.html">Day 26</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-27.html">Day 27</a><br />
<br />Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-51464886807855756082015-11-27T10:00:00.000-06:002015-12-01T13:50:58.637-06:0030 Days of Thankfulness: Day 27<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s1600/Giving+Thanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s320/Giving+Thanks.JPG" width="222" /></a></div>
For most people, today is Black Friday. A chance to grab the latest and greatest deals to get your Christmas shopping done early. I have never been a big Black Friday shopper. I went once. That was plenty.<br />
<br />
For me, today is Thanksgiving number 2! It doesn't matter the actual date, this is the day that we are gathering with my husband's family to celebrate. I am thankful that they are willing to move holidays to get everyone together. When my husband worked at the sheriff's office, he often had to work holidays, so being able to celebrate with everyone when he was off work was a big deal. <br />
<br />
So whether you are Black Friday shopping, in a turkey coma from yesterday, or having Thanksgiving #2, be grateful for everyone and everything you have in your life.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-1-and-2.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 1 and 2</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 3</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 4</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-5-and-6.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 5 and 6</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-7-and-8.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 7 and 8</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-9-and-10.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 9 and 10</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-11.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 11</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-12.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 12</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-13.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 13</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day14.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 14</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-15.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 15</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-16-and-17.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 16 and 17</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-18.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 18</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-19-and-20.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 19 and 20</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-21.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 21</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-22.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 22</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness.html">Day 23</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-24.html">Day 24</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-25.html">Day 25</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-26.html">Day 26</a>Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-76551373286877147442015-11-26T10:00:00.000-06:002015-12-01T13:51:21.631-06:0030 Days of Thankfulness: Day 26 Thanksgiving Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s1600/Giving+Thanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s320/Giving+Thanks.JPG" width="222" /></a></div>
<br />
Today is Thanksgiving Day. I hope you are surrounded by family, friends, good food, fellowship, laughter, love, and joy. Make the most of every moment you have with those you love. Take pictures, exchange ideas, and give love freely.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-1-and-2.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 1 and 2</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 3</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 4</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-5-and-6.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 5 and 6</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-7-and-8.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 7 and 8</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-9-and-10.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 9 and 10</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-11.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 11</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-12.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 12</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-13.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 13</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day14.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 14</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-15.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 15</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-16-and-17.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 16 and 17</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-18.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 18</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-19-and-20.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 19 and 20</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-21.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 21</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-22.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 22</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness.html">Day 23</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-24.html">Day 24</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-25.html">Day 25</a>Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190784983595113151.post-46053904660491648672015-11-25T10:00:00.000-06:002015-12-01T13:51:45.694-06:0030 Days of Thankfulness: Day 25<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s1600/Giving+Thanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXO2Y8yRv8aH_2ZHPrT8b2xMgJ9L0G0fMgMWLfOhGco2Nz1gssB2nmk-B38mK9RR7KRjjSTPGc0oI5WC4F4pk9y6FQbhBsEP4ynbGFwZjZatW4b7BbldhdiepcicUCYo0K4eZJypPg0E/s320/Giving+Thanks.JPG" width="222" /></a></div>
<br />
Today I am thankful for traditions. My mom and I are planning to make cookies today. We are going to take them with us to our family's Thanksgiving to give out as gifts. This is the one holiday that my mom's family all gets together for, so we are giving Christmas gifts early, while we are all together. These sugar cookies are special to us and our family. They are the same recipe that my great-grandmother used when my mother was a child. We all have our fond memories of making these special sugar cookies with icing.<br />
<br />
Another tradition we have, started with my parents. Starting the year they were married, they have bought a dated Christmas ornament each year. The ornament represents something significant that happened that year. For example, the years that each of us were born, we have a baby's first Christmas ornament dated for that year. The infamous year my parents didn't have a Christmas tree, the ornament has a Christmas tree on it! (My mom won't let my dad live that one down. Along with a few other stories!) These ornaments are so special to our family. We always decorate with the whole family there, as best we can, turn on the Christmas music, and pour some egg nog or hot chocolate. Then we start with the very first year (1978, I believe) and go in order, taking turns putting the ornaments on the tree. I love this special tradition so much, that my husband and I have started our own dated ornaments. I also love that my parents bought each of us a tree to put in our rooms when we were young. We were able to pick out and make our own ornaments each year for our own tree. I loved decorating my tree! It is special to have ornaments that have been with me since I was a baby. <br />
<br />
What is a special tradition that your family enjoys?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-1-and-2.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 1 and 2</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 3</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-3.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 4</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-5-and-6.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 5 and 6</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-7-and-8.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 7 and 8</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-9-and-10.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 9 and 10</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-11.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 11</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-12.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 12</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-13.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 13</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day14.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 14</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-15.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 15</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-16-and-17.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 16 and 17</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-18.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 18</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-19-and-20.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 19 and 20</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-21.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 21</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-22.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-decoration: none;">Day 22</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness.html">Day 23</a><br />
<a href="http://life-of-a-ms-girl.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-days-of-thankfulness-day-24.html">Day 24</a><br />
<br />Mississippi Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10676996912814732271noreply@blogger.com0