tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330376493641780782024-02-19T07:18:51.697-05:00Simplifying in the SouthSimplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-12625168497477191232011-06-30T19:42:00.001-04:002011-06-30T19:48:22.394-04:0030 for 30 RecapSo today marks the completion of my <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/06/30-for-30.html">30 for 30 challenge</a>. <br />
<br />
30 minutes of physical activity for 30 days.<br />
<br />
And I just have one thing to say, <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">30 days is a <u>REALLY</u> long time</span></b>.<br />
<br />
I started off strong (<i>or so I thought</i>). Varying my daily activities so I didn't get bored. Walks around the neighborhood, stair climbing in the local stadium, aerobics.<br />
<br />
Then something happened and I missed a day. I just couldn't get my stuff together. Who knows what really happens, the excuses are endless: work, late social nights, etc. But I was okay, it felt like I had been doing this challenge for a while now so I had a good track record. Then I looked at the calendar.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It was June 7th.</span></b><br />
<br />
I lamented to my friend Tanja at the <a href="http://minimalistpackrat.com/">Minimalist Packrat</a> and was newly inspired by her <a href="http://minimalistpackrat.com/2011/06/06/the-art-of-wabi-sabi-and-a-tiny-house-update/">Wabi Sabi mantra</a>. And even rebounded with a 5:00AM workout at the gym the next day.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to June 15th. I must have a thing for 7 days. I was sick that day and totally missed out. But am pretty proud of myself for keeping the 1-hr 5:00AM workout sessions up for a good while.<br />
<br />
Now we are to this week. Man oh man, this week was the hardest. Traveling, work schedules, social outings. They all attacked me at once and I was unprepared. In not so many words, not the strong finish I was hoping for.<br />
<br />
So my overall score, 80%. In my school of thought, that would be rounded to a B+. <br />
<br />
This challenge was fun, definitely gave me <i><u>a lot</u></i> of time to enjoy our 100 degree weather here in the south. It reinforced the life long lesson that to create a habit takes a long time and tons of discipline. And reminded me again how important it is to get <a href="http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/PhysicalActivity/StartWalking/American-Heart-Association-Guidelines_UCM_307976_Article.jsp">some sort of physical activity everyday</a>.<br />
<br />
And I'm deciding that it's good enough to buy <a href="http://www.puma.com/running/products/faas-500-womens">my awesome reward</a>. I'm sure glad this is only a deciding committee of <b>UNO</b>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<i>If you joined me in the challenge, tell me how you did. What did you learn?</i>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-46998568839206323962011-06-26T20:50:00.001-04:002011-06-30T19:43:10.512-04:00Preoccupied Summer<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've been distracted a lot lately.</span><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">By extreme sports......</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjJljRDoJI8C2Wz3XZbnbS8LD8IDE1XQsa8FoXkBn1im7ugRYXHVirJBG3qYDg0r2p24vUSPk19vk9Qp58KLij44nl2z21QwIBU9FxnbM939T8dv9J_JbRcSEO_NczJyRHKRk04fjTEci/s1600/D01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjJljRDoJI8C2Wz3XZbnbS8LD8IDE1XQsa8FoXkBn1im7ugRYXHVirJBG3qYDg0r2p24vUSPk19vk9Qp58KLij44nl2z21QwIBU9FxnbM939T8dv9J_JbRcSEO_NczJyRHKRk04fjTEci/s640/D01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<i>(notice the terror)</i><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And these little guys.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwwy0wkjBMx952GPkE2oM0mZOcsSyc0oV24jtmgLwCxazU5vpv5k7_XzcdES4RKkHDM-ZGMln8uKWIRyr_shbbEpUeMYKhrEYJ0spxIzLOARRRQVUUHS3V14byJYPVw_1LxzfBHlyqePm/s1600/D03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwwy0wkjBMx952GPkE2oM0mZOcsSyc0oV24jtmgLwCxazU5vpv5k7_XzcdES4RKkHDM-ZGMln8uKWIRyr_shbbEpUeMYKhrEYJ0spxIzLOARRRQVUUHS3V14byJYPVw_1LxzfBHlyqePm/s640/D03.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Preoccupied with this view......</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vAotcpvhI9nrNT0XxM8B9NL4pMgECDT-wmsh-uFgH0Q9tn7jEdsQOjDXf9t1AeMIiBTlLUK-1dBf_3sErjjo6DsxzMajBbrQNbPmuxI50rTcyMpt8ciC3R1c7aQHp4alTWmDa9p602Z-/s1600/D04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vAotcpvhI9nrNT0XxM8B9NL4pMgECDT-wmsh-uFgH0Q9tn7jEdsQOjDXf9t1AeMIiBTlLUK-1dBf_3sErjjo6DsxzMajBbrQNbPmuxI50rTcyMpt8ciC3R1c7aQHp4alTWmDa9p602Z-/s640/D04.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<i>(Who knew living so darn close to the beach would be like getting to eat ice cream everyday for a year and not gaining a single ounce. Okay, <a href="http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/population/welcome.html">50% of American's did</a>. Now I'm just glad to be one of them.)</i><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Amused by these little rascals......</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGXkDNjBUiAi9u1ujmwb1VtHdYX7u2y1SeELitAbNi7-EVspbT_GqPAFb17MyO0mD0sObfcO6MQTVwojhUjmO0ORAGJgw-tySxVYkssi8_sWGByw4BzzS31WbVKJrqWW2HG2r6_5a8awq/s1600/D05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGXkDNjBUiAi9u1ujmwb1VtHdYX7u2y1SeELitAbNi7-EVspbT_GqPAFb17MyO0mD0sObfcO6MQTVwojhUjmO0ORAGJgw-tySxVYkssi8_sWGByw4BzzS31WbVKJrqWW2HG2r6_5a8awq/s640/D05.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Tormented by this.....</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRp-5MT8UoZbpGBXk-Ihr0p04M2SYDIVRFfUeZUgSi4-wVf7MCja5U1VsATA2McvcPyapdleVP0XN-2AbbDgk6YSgjDjkRI-rjlNlM2JdEbFtNunDQAcatxfx7Aa-dyHgNDm5MS_CDuo-n/s1600/D06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRp-5MT8UoZbpGBXk-Ihr0p04M2SYDIVRFfUeZUgSi4-wVf7MCja5U1VsATA2McvcPyapdleVP0XN-2AbbDgk6YSgjDjkRI-rjlNlM2JdEbFtNunDQAcatxfx7Aa-dyHgNDm5MS_CDuo-n/s640/D06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><i><br />
</i><br />
<i>(A pile that's been following me all over my house for a month.....future blog post to come, I promise!)</i><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Afflicted by <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/06/30-for-30.html">this</a>. (Only 4 more days to go!)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And entertained by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Winter-Our-Disconnect-Teenagers-Technology/dp/1585428558">this</a>....</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLLtjttZjr1X2IQ7wDr8SF_x2fAvlBuvETIOCWrSzPL2ugHAs_DYelRSBXJ32dD29Pv0qUCSppRES9yHXSm1D9ugalrxXJg0xK6vksAgDRA_xU9ApZrGfNQoI32KllMQbyY7HyWFYLNsT/s1600/The_Winter_of_Our_Disconnect_How_Three_Totally_Wired_Teenagers_and_a_Mother_Who_Slept_with_Her_iPhonePulled_the_Plug_on_Their_Technology_and_Lived_to_Tell_the_Tale-69345.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLLtjttZjr1X2IQ7wDr8SF_x2fAvlBuvETIOCWrSzPL2ugHAs_DYelRSBXJ32dD29Pv0qUCSppRES9yHXSm1D9ugalrxXJg0xK6vksAgDRA_xU9ApZrGfNQoI32KllMQbyY7HyWFYLNsT/s400/The_Winter_of_Our_Disconnect_How_Three_Totally_Wired_Teenagers_and_a_Mother_Who_Slept_with_Her_iPhonePulled_the_Plug_on_Their_Technology_and_Lived_to_Tell_the_Tale-69345.jpeg" width="266" /></a></div><i>(An excellent read!)</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Man, I love the side-tracked days of summer.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Happy solstice,</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQnP6vve5VReYycbh_os9qZF9DG6g2mjC78IpIdqebydsyhC9Rv_g8opjYAxvU0dqYZQBJwL_39ogCjigI_gnB_7WxBnZT-06REol28CAdo7THkaPnzI-pYVf-Sno8JlpngkCoZOV_Yqt/s1600/D02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQnP6vve5VReYycbh_os9qZF9DG6g2mjC78IpIdqebydsyhC9Rv_g8opjYAxvU0dqYZQBJwL_39ogCjigI_gnB_7WxBnZT-06REol28CAdo7THkaPnzI-pYVf-Sno8JlpngkCoZOV_Yqt/s640/D02.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-51802760505297597142011-06-09T08:12:00.001-04:002011-06-26T20:51:17.088-04:00What They Don't Tell YouA dear friend let me borrow a huge pile of cooking magazines.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3zTNX49XjMoF6ZR6xw3FFoSiFFSupJtfYLhyknxNabHsbqucxsH_22YbAUE0O-5CbK_Coonb23OixMjz4A4gui0Kg8JOryjApyCr-4NG25gyB73Jfo35uxBvtsUw6F_IKk9SwHUrumgs/s1600/Cookbooks+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3zTNX49XjMoF6ZR6xw3FFoSiFFSupJtfYLhyknxNabHsbqucxsH_22YbAUE0O-5CbK_Coonb23OixMjz4A4gui0Kg8JOryjApyCr-4NG25gyB73Jfo35uxBvtsUw6F_IKk9SwHUrumgs/s640/Cookbooks+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I'm learning a lot and finding all kinds of <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/Dining%20In">new recipes to try</a>.<br />
<br />
My favorites are the easy, quick meals. You know the ones, 5 minute preps, 1 pan, and you've got a full course meal.<br />
<br />
Like this recipe I tried last night.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyags5Ntw6Rkg2S1yysObk12czhLmTv-7F8LPijWB3zYuszWyBiMI2OCNTGcjRXsiIJDOXasMo3ubWqhIWa9AR99s828NwFr3i5uvFxZkE9Rxn1ynKqVp9me_PCLA6auSUYrqUmoRcPGAE/s1600/Cookbooks+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyags5Ntw6Rkg2S1yysObk12czhLmTv-7F8LPijWB3zYuszWyBiMI2OCNTGcjRXsiIJDOXasMo3ubWqhIWa9AR99s828NwFr3i5uvFxZkE9Rxn1ynKqVp9me_PCLA6auSUYrqUmoRcPGAE/s640/Cookbooks+3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
Only 20 minutes of preparation, then bake for 1 hr and Voila!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3agyT9iGzYD6OcLZJaFGiW6LEqJ5Kix78JLAC6rooJxN-4d-b5116T31eouWG2eykgph2FzayvDOvN0oZJHDrfvgSd1kKpOasK49KXqDqezW15EyKes6xPJxe0e8hqLTqFZH_xLe8Wx0t/s1600/Cookbooks+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3agyT9iGzYD6OcLZJaFGiW6LEqJ5Kix78JLAC6rooJxN-4d-b5116T31eouWG2eykgph2FzayvDOvN0oZJHDrfvgSd1kKpOasK49KXqDqezW15EyKes6xPJxe0e8hqLTqFZH_xLe8Wx0t/s640/Cookbooks+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
Or something like that. (<i>I haven't baked mine yet, so we will see</i>).<br />
<br />
And the prep really was about 20 minutes.<br />
<br />
However, what they forget to calculate is this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5YI0VnNMr4c72LAmIJlCpebMuCax7Cd_EOjzou2KDbQgMAhlSXWonfSjTkNhQQSo0OLMe7w_9rHJY9g_qUIPvvHM2EIi84DxXFegMorkKeACfUUtdAU04-iByySl3M9bQadGyenM9Bm-V/s1600/Cookbooks+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5YI0VnNMr4c72LAmIJlCpebMuCax7Cd_EOjzou2KDbQgMAhlSXWonfSjTkNhQQSo0OLMe7w_9rHJY9g_qUIPvvHM2EIi84DxXFegMorkKeACfUUtdAU04-iByySl3M9bQadGyenM9Bm-V/s640/Cookbooks+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Just saying we should give all parts their due credit.<br />
<br />
In the market for some kitchen elves,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-56353048655718907602011-06-02T16:48:00.001-04:002011-06-09T08:12:25.518-04:00Sing A Happy SongA <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">MUST</span></b> see this summer......<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ku40DEMg57k?rel=0" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
Sing a Happy Song......<br />
<br />
<br />
<embed allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" id="VideoPlayback" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docid=3087992255882358662&hl=en&fs=true" style="height: 326px; width: 400px;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed> <br />
<br />
Happy Thursday!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-70734680302093777762011-06-01T12:53:00.001-04:002011-06-02T16:48:44.705-04:0030 for 30.....before I reach 30.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
This is a little challenge I'm issuing to myself and you.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>30 minutes of exercise for 30 days.</b></span><br />
<br />
You see I've been feeling like a sloth here lately.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioWal1YUOI2_5AohyphenhyphenElPmoQVjKyDbIQb7RzaO9vwOWn3GEKZ2Vi0coCLJKUt1mgMGqwcaVKdxWWgT_bnvIkU84SeTN7DGeY4LkFQg0qhpTY4gbOVxhihC_RWMCT5oCxm5HA_FNwHNcAat1/s1600/sloth.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioWal1YUOI2_5AohyphenhyphenElPmoQVjKyDbIQb7RzaO9vwOWn3GEKZ2Vi0coCLJKUt1mgMGqwcaVKdxWWgT_bnvIkU84SeTN7DGeY4LkFQg0qhpTY4gbOVxhihC_RWMCT5oCxm5HA_FNwHNcAat1/s400/sloth.jpeg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>What I looked like yesterday morning after our weekend travels</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>And I've also been reading <a href="http://www.amenclinics.com/amenclinics/cybcyb/">Change Your Brain, Change Your Body</a> by Dr. Daniel Amen. Which makes me think a lot about exercising, or my lack their of.<br />
<br />
Being active, or athletic, (<i>or whatever you want to call it</i>) is not something I think of doing. Especially when I have free time.<br />
<br />
I like <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/05/pace-of-life-alternative-way.html">to lounge</a>, <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/grab-tissue-and-get-ready-to-be.html">read books</a>, and try a lot of <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/Dining%20In">good (<i>sometimes bad for you</i>) food</a>.<br />
<br />
And we all know the benefits of exercise. It makes you feel great, sleep better, and have more energy.<br />
Sometimes it's just really difficult to find the motivation to do it.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/PhysicalActivity/StartWalking/American-Heart-Association-Guidelines_UCM_307976_Article.jsp">American Heart Association</a> recommends <u>30 minutes</u> of vigorous exercise (<i>which means your breathing heavy and it's difficult to talk</i>) <u>5 times a week</u>.<br />
<br />
So I thought 30 minutes is nothing really. One episode of <a href="http://www.nbc.com/the-office/">The Office</a>. A load of laundry. <br />
I could manage that. And why not make it a goal for 30 days, just to be consistent.<br />
<br />
And to make it fun, I've decided to have a prize for myself at the end.<br />
These <a href="http://www.puma.com/running/products/faas-500-womens">bad <strike>boys</strike> girls</a> will be waiting for me:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMBuEnevXKhIkyFxJs7oon-PaydMxGDCDCTVpU0mFWNRUnWfTvUtgsDn6Z8IjtiNsGLBjXrcby3mXsi8h5n__pMrrL7yTz1gZ7X2wnJloAJAKeq4AN17w_QQQQXpTPMvgDUZaV-tmUydN/s1600/Prod-185161-overview-award.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMBuEnevXKhIkyFxJs7oon-PaydMxGDCDCTVpU0mFWNRUnWfTvUtgsDn6Z8IjtiNsGLBjXrcby3mXsi8h5n__pMrrL7yTz1gZ7X2wnJloAJAKeq4AN17w_QQQQXpTPMvgDUZaV-tmUydN/s400/Prod-185161-overview-award.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
To replace these 2-yr old sad puppies, who have definitely seen their better days:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAoIM2VaHRlLVkvoY1Q1fKRFvRfKnz6_HhzomnB3qly2o9RmJw-x6aH7mSNXv76UDGwtAIGPBnvcWg7rtwb9fUQsHwjL6_YNwJ8yzAC-7VKd7kKVpBoKQ144WeC2-jHcmDSobSj-6k0n-K/s1600/OldShoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAoIM2VaHRlLVkvoY1Q1fKRFvRfKnz6_HhzomnB3qly2o9RmJw-x6aH7mSNXv76UDGwtAIGPBnvcWg7rtwb9fUQsHwjL6_YNwJ8yzAC-7VKd7kKVpBoKQ144WeC2-jHcmDSobSj-6k0n-K/s400/OldShoes.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Set yourself a goal and let's get movin',<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><b><br />
</b><br />
<b><i>If you are planning on joining in the fun, keep me updated! Let's see how creative we can be with our 30 minutes.</i></b><br />
<b><i>Inspire one another!</i></b>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-65659302341558700572011-05-26T16:54:00.001-04:002011-06-01T12:53:55.079-04:0070,000 Miles in an Airstream Trailer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-31cHixCHM61yPg64733nTLreIVOCFCtAQQ31BGEDFuzxVMq4tHlv2ExFIbPo0fNn3_FY3Ni6-191eE6fjgCxmXJtl9nKLSULiU3oe0M5VLIF-a_9Z5vATqe4MqK6GlVS-_GIT-SrcfzV/s1600/WigwamVillageMotel.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-31cHixCHM61yPg64733nTLreIVOCFCtAQQ31BGEDFuzxVMq4tHlv2ExFIbPo0fNn3_FY3Ni6-191eE6fjgCxmXJtl9nKLSULiU3oe0M5VLIF-a_9Z5vATqe4MqK6GlVS-_GIT-SrcfzV/s320/WigwamVillageMotel.gif" width="320" /></a></div>I recently came across the work of <a href="http://www.davidmichaelkennedy.com/">David Michael Kennedy</a>. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
(<i>Thanks to <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/pictureshow/">The Picture Show</a>, one of my favorite <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/02/splash-of-color.html">pastime reads</a></i>).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.davidmichaelkennedy.com/">David Michael Kennedy</a> is an interesting character. He is a renowned photography, with a shooting portfolio of <a href="http://www.davidmichaelkennedy.com/photographs/category/11">some pretty big icons</a>. <br />
<br />
That's not what inspired me about him though. You see <a href="http://www.davidmichaelkennedy.com/">David Michael Kennedy</a> just got back from a two year trip (<i>70,000 miles later</i>), to <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/pictureshow/2011/05/23/136507209/a-handmade-camera-and-a-vintage-trailer-on-the-road-to-a-lost-america#more">rediscover America</a>.<br />
<br />
He describes this beautiful journey in a recent <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/pictureshow/2011/05/23/136507209/a-handmade-camera-and-a-vintage-trailer-on-the-road-to-a-lost-america#more">interview</a>. <br />
<br />
Happy Thursday!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-44037323528745888152011-05-22T13:35:00.002-04:002011-05-26T16:54:34.764-04:00The Pace of Life : An Alternative WayIt took me 20 minutes to take this picture.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<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/AVvXsEjEJP1N-ZoHeH8AwPP7qnsWFZx6Pq8qt_TWsvuJASjwO3NasaCIxmOvfMW61vctrP17nd3jrCaHV8vrLI2WHyTdDFiGzLjhn8-hRs8VUobthHK45GZRUB03zvAnUYEJ8uwOicwRWRTUcOgt/s1600/Mia+April+2010_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJP1N-ZoHeH8AwPP7qnsWFZx6Pq8qt_TWsvuJASjwO3NasaCIxmOvfMW61vctrP17nd3jrCaHV8vrLI2WHyTdDFiGzLjhn8-hRs8VUobthHK45GZRUB03zvAnUYEJ8uwOicwRWRTUcOgt/s640/Mia+April+2010_5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
To get it just right. The lighting, the position.<br />
<br />
That is the SOOC (Straigh-Out-Of-Camera) shot. No Photoshop fixins'.<br />
<br />
It was on a Saturday. A precious day that I had no plans, and could indulge in whatever my heart desired.<br />
<br />
I've been trying to <b>'schedule'</b> a lot of those days here recently. Days to do nothing. To go wherever the wind takes me.<br />
<br />
Trying to really have the mentality of slowing down. Really stopping, and<a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/04/bueller-bueller.html"> not trying to fill the empty space with more</a>.<br />
<br />
This dedicated break from the rhythm of life is required. Just look at our history and the traditions we still maintain today.<br />
<br />
Did you get together with <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/skipping-christmas-results.html">friends or family for Christmas</a>? What about this summer, do you plan on taking a vacation or a day trip? Humans need downtime in order to be completely fulfilled. Special days and festivals give us a different quality of time from the daily grind of life.<br />
<br />
We need rest, and relationships <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/05/trying-to-feel-like-human.html">to feel…well human</a>. <br />
<br />
And as I try to <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/Bucking%20the%20Status%20Quo">buck the status quo</a>, I'm realizing how difficult this idea of <b><a href="http://smashyourtelevision.com/2011/04/the-sweetness-of-doing-nothing/">'doing nothing'</a></b> is. I am constantly bombarded with this need to be productive. To have an end-product.<br />
<br />
This is a shift that has happened in our society recently, brought to my attention by a great book I just finished, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sabbath-Time-Understanding-Contemporary-Christians/dp/0835898628">Sabbath Time by Tilden Edwards</a>.<br />
<br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"This driveness is deepened by what sociologists call the rapid shift from ascribed to achieved status in modern societies: the shift from sensing a givenness to who we are through family, religion, and community membership, to defining ourselves (and being defined by others) in terms of what we produce through whatever individual way of life this production of self and things may involve."</span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
It's scary to think that we are constantly desiring to be productive. That society has been so influential in molding us into these little assembly lines, constantly working without a break.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>I think for our humanity we can afford to stop and take a breather. My better half and I have done it and are reaping the benefits by the tons. We aren't <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/preventing-your-life-from-looking-like.html">rollin' in the dough</a> by any means, and our future (<u><i>like everyone else</i></u>) is unknown. But the peace and contentment that fills our hearts and minds everyday is priceless. Our quality of life is so rich, that I feel like we are millionaires. Without all <a href="http://923now.radio.com/2011/04/18/charlie-sheens-new-baby-mama-drama/">the drama</a>.</div><br />
<br />
Fight the shift, and <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/04/bueller-bueller.html">take a breather</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<div><br />
</div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-29583834074879148772011-05-09T20:54:00.001-04:002011-05-22T13:41:05.858-04:002nd Only To The Nonesuch CheesecakeThis is a story about my dear friend Mike, and Christmas cookies.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictiR6tgnre6XgvGzWVh3iWlJvaSBmRMu0Uvzu7ijMP7sJjJEUJqRIMx_Km2oDvo2MWH9y3axf22gYzHix5DgneAGyTT7k6ASqBml_8kZmT9CTWRbiNa0klkVSwuYFA45HkYOwmu1pX2lI/s1600/Frame_Horizontal+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictiR6tgnre6XgvGzWVh3iWlJvaSBmRMu0Uvzu7ijMP7sJjJEUJqRIMx_Km2oDvo2MWH9y3axf22gYzHix5DgneAGyTT7k6ASqBml_8kZmT9CTWRbiNa0klkVSwuYFA45HkYOwmu1pX2lI/s640/Frame_Horizontal+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
This is Nonesuch Farm. Where my good friends Mike & Jenny live.<br />
And <b>THE BEST</b> cheesecake in the entire world lives there too. <br />
When Mike makes it.<br />
<br />
I know that is a big statement but trust me on this one, I've sampled the cheesecakes of the world and haven't tasted any thing better than Mike's.<br />
<br />
I was given one for a birthday gift last year and almost weeped. <br />
You see I LOVE cheesecake. It's my absolute favorite thing to eat. And to me a good cheesecake is all about the crust.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKKQ-xkkUdwcWRzWh-3d6-VvD-8gHWCzih_iP1gnoYaZGoBCcNRBFHL6Olnxw8SI2B6nfv14HE4IUcUMKeORK-7K_Wx_45mu2auDzeOxvM_LxNQGyDXlnAIfX__IDGDNXhfhEp7iytIHI/s1600/CCC+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKKQ-xkkUdwcWRzWh-3d6-VvD-8gHWCzih_iP1gnoYaZGoBCcNRBFHL6Olnxw8SI2B6nfv14HE4IUcUMKeORK-7K_Wx_45mu2auDzeOxvM_LxNQGyDXlnAIfX__IDGDNXhfhEp7iytIHI/s640/CCC+01.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
These are the Christmas cookies that have been in my freezer <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/skipping-christmas-results.html">since December</a>. My Mom went on a cookie baking spree this year and sent us home with the leftovers.<br />
<br />
Since <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/02/dining-in-sweet-cornbread.html">my pantry clean out</a>, I've been attempting to use everything in our kitchen. And the Christmas cookies were patiently waiting for their starring role.<br />
<br />
Then late one night it hit me. Wouldn't those delicious, perfectly baked sugar cookies (from <a href="http://www.gfs.com/en">GFS</a>) make a scrumptious crust to a cheesecake?<br />
<br />
<i>Ok, I didn't really say scrumptious but it sounded sophisticated</i>.<br />
<br />
So I baked them for 12 minutes at 350F.<br />
<br />
Then I crumbled them in a food processor, till I got this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCGrcbGRnfHyEAJIy-ffnVRgXJrYYXQBqf8gCC1gHy1-G4QPcCUaEOm5zu0my2NkK4iFe9BrqnI75abs_C5S2btKqwfoALtVUe7gyJw9S967BbagEnqTWIhDTt6fBk4pZyT78wtExe6cC/s1600/CCC+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCGrcbGRnfHyEAJIy-ffnVRgXJrYYXQBqf8gCC1gHy1-G4QPcCUaEOm5zu0my2NkK4iFe9BrqnI75abs_C5S2btKqwfoALtVUe7gyJw9S967BbagEnqTWIhDTt6fBk4pZyT78wtExe6cC/s640/CCC+02.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Then I smushed them into a greased 9-in springform pan. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTpnWBZlKeLI88v8B0lOrLOTbkI6nijXXYcP8D6n27fcjRVEw2S-A7BG3RD8sLLq-wz1-klVQTl4PjtxdBh_7f_lqSoxOk4rDge27DNCQQvvwc7cpAVLczM6Ug0QNChf_0mL8wEL9svP9/s1600/CCC+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTpnWBZlKeLI88v8B0lOrLOTbkI6nijXXYcP8D6n27fcjRVEw2S-A7BG3RD8sLLq-wz1-klVQTl4PjtxdBh_7f_lqSoxOk4rDge27DNCQQvvwc7cpAVLczM6Ug0QNChf_0mL8wEL9svP9/s640/CCC+03.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Here is one of the secrets to a scrumptious cheesecake, you have to smush the cookie crumblies all the way up the side of the pan. Then fill in the bottom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06PE7FbBrteApoYNhizxo0fhxx9K4-ywenIu0J9Nc79LqQMjjcIELQJnF_8QvIqsK9WL7u_a5HZU7AUBz3X3Cp0VPRdG-5uNviJlXD7DuHH9OPrgo1hC8OahLFJrBxsymZ7fT6d9Jy6hI/s1600/CCC+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06PE7FbBrteApoYNhizxo0fhxx9K4-ywenIu0J9Nc79LqQMjjcIELQJnF_8QvIqsK9WL7u_a5HZU7AUBz3X3Cp0VPRdG-5uNviJlXD7DuHH9OPrgo1hC8OahLFJrBxsymZ7fT6d9Jy6hI/s640/CCC+04.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Next I made the cheesecake part using a standard cheesecake recipe from <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/">Taste of Home</a>. So I'm sure you can guess cream cheese is a must.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcR2m1xNjpm3vK3cG6nd2XMnpO8hM2pi0PiYL2HcQyNI8Gdi0OSOEQ6d46wXmOtv-p29rhfzQv14McIrXxdU9KEWH00hCmgVUUhCM5NLyUiBJBx4hqrcT1SMZdBS9bUTsjAbO-vhupn5iI/s1600/CCC+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcR2m1xNjpm3vK3cG6nd2XMnpO8hM2pi0PiYL2HcQyNI8Gdi0OSOEQ6d46wXmOtv-p29rhfzQv14McIrXxdU9KEWH00hCmgVUUhCM5NLyUiBJBx4hqrcT1SMZdBS9bUTsjAbO-vhupn5iI/s640/CCC+05.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Oh, and word of warning. Don't skimp on the Philadelphia brand. For some reason this is one instance where the generic brand just isn't the same. Trust me, my frugal-self has tried.<br />
<br />
Beat the cream cheese together until smooth. Then you are going to need some sugar (1-1/3 cups)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7LEZ8wiUS7mLdt_0IrUutkFpRenX7MkHn7UD4O0TC1nuWJo7HBN4yTO7z1sxyqatZ_wKq34t1TUcYQEhA-xMQTtwWH557cGtHf9uBsjRVtfXWNkpfOnem2j0AXgKQqTliANB0yMJNqHia/s1600/CCC+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7LEZ8wiUS7mLdt_0IrUutkFpRenX7MkHn7UD4O0TC1nuWJo7HBN4yTO7z1sxyqatZ_wKq34t1TUcYQEhA-xMQTtwWH557cGtHf9uBsjRVtfXWNkpfOnem2j0AXgKQqTliANB0yMJNqHia/s640/CCC+06.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Add the sugar and beat for 1 minute. Then mix in the eggs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PYutU24UBcna_0MysZdO5-GnpqorWHAswUu1gCbREp-f8zd1EKiBoZhG1V40WlMiyJg80kkmIIW64-DwcyUk_EcqrlaO8z1zDY-k4kfEPfx3JiUdz78crMkk4RSFwl2IX8_c9n23bxRb/s1600/CCC+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PYutU24UBcna_0MysZdO5-GnpqorWHAswUu1gCbREp-f8zd1EKiBoZhG1V40WlMiyJg80kkmIIW64-DwcyUk_EcqrlaO8z1zDY-k4kfEPfx3JiUdz78crMkk4RSFwl2IX8_c9n23bxRb/s640/CCC+07.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
Crack those before in a bowl and slightly beat them. It will save you some mixing time.<br />
<br />
Next comes the secret ingredients that turn a delicious cheesecake into a <i>scrumptious, best you've ever eaten in your life cheesecake</i>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iXIopCpJ3OGLJILg-eSF34zxLnnwb909RA2CmpXddTcf1RDYpSwRYkxclKofAFbo9TVz42khpBNBPQ0USjvnwjsEGiLKhpJXaehlj1ZPQRXsZF8Z0EH3EOqYGm5WjzaX_ABOW5IccHdH/s1600/CCC+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iXIopCpJ3OGLJILg-eSF34zxLnnwb909RA2CmpXddTcf1RDYpSwRYkxclKofAFbo9TVz42khpBNBPQ0USjvnwjsEGiLKhpJXaehlj1ZPQRXsZF8Z0EH3EOqYGm5WjzaX_ABOW5IccHdH/s640/CCC+08.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
That's right, orange juice (2 tbsps) and grated orange peel (2 tsp). Mix those in and beat for 2-3 minutes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWzhIFYEmO8dsIrC-N4q01DrYRAhbQV56_IAyw_NnuGrR0YEiVNbaPUdtBUgfZUniio6uLeNV8eWp5xO-TQfZc4MsJuwHJ3uEZVzJgUkoHCLEpTef0pD__Sijsmwam3JDypDDp2b9RFgOI/s1600/CCC+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWzhIFYEmO8dsIrC-N4q01DrYRAhbQV56_IAyw_NnuGrR0YEiVNbaPUdtBUgfZUniio6uLeNV8eWp5xO-TQfZc4MsJuwHJ3uEZVzJgUkoHCLEpTef0pD__Sijsmwam3JDypDDp2b9RFgOI/s640/CCC+09.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
I pulled out <a href="http://www.kitchenaid.com/flash.cmd?/#/page/home">old faithful</a> for <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/Dining%20In">this kitchen adventure</a>. It was a must because my little hand mixture died during the process (<i>it wasn't pretty</i>).<br />
<br />
Then pour your mixture into your already prepared pan with your cookie crust.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXxQKgTG3IIfiIBrelKrtmO4GcrU2jQtiWBgXeIKgDa851EXIrcl2eS3ou9xj8YYuu5uMgBcRpZinLZEA0h4RHuLj4z-q7b6dPj5MybxP20eIpBnfBjHL9foZpoml5kwEXLV7VmfU2Chz/s1600/CCC+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXxQKgTG3IIfiIBrelKrtmO4GcrU2jQtiWBgXeIKgDa851EXIrcl2eS3ou9xj8YYuu5uMgBcRpZinLZEA0h4RHuLj4z-q7b6dPj5MybxP20eIpBnfBjHL9foZpoml5kwEXLV7VmfU2Chz/s400/CCC+10.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
Now comes the only tricky part. <br />
<br />
You get to make a water bath for your cheesecake.<br />
Don't worry, bubbles and champagne are not required.<br />
<br />
Make a 16-in square with heavy duty aluminum foil and double it. Then place the wrapped springform pan into a shallow baking dish. I used a roasting pan and that seemed to work. Place that "almost" water bath in the oven. (Preheated 350F)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKU96IlcJIMEAnu1Q0rLItb8BpEOVRnQK7Uhpe9JKbGRiMPwPjgVRUOn-rgtnJ7HOXmLZid6tGoGLpiLjwoAlX2W-3SUXn0aocapTCTM060B-9igekuPbK48T4w3JDHLnNEO48fvjzfJUm/s1600/CCC+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKU96IlcJIMEAnu1Q0rLItb8BpEOVRnQK7Uhpe9JKbGRiMPwPjgVRUOn-rgtnJ7HOXmLZid6tGoGLpiLjwoAlX2W-3SUXn0aocapTCTM060B-9igekuPbK48T4w3JDHLnNEO48fvjzfJUm/s640/CCC+11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Pour hot (<i>not boiling</i>) water into the shallow pan to a depth of an inch.<br />
<br />
And don't worry it will still taste scrumptious even if you accidentally pour some of the water into the cheesecake.<br />
<i>Not that I'm speaking from experience or anything</i>.<br />
<br />
Bake for 80 minutes, until the center is set. That just means it stops jiggling. Unlike my arms, which are destined to jiggle for the rest of my life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSxcNqPr-njsMeWIExLPySOg02KUlcHJQhDE8lF31QF6DKFMcM3ZaDtPx3fvReBTeR0qPGxKVJLBV0ew7iGGYNnw8Ft97M8cDb0UQ4fJc9NqVfPZW8_VZX_-gLv3ICpoT2zJo3aWMP1Jb1/s1600/CCC+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSxcNqPr-njsMeWIExLPySOg02KUlcHJQhDE8lF31QF6DKFMcM3ZaDtPx3fvReBTeR0qPGxKVJLBV0ew7iGGYNnw8Ft97M8cDb0UQ4fJc9NqVfPZW8_VZX_-gLv3ICpoT2zJo3aWMP1Jb1/s640/CCC+12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
And the top should be golden brown.<br />
Cool for at least 1 hour, then refrigerate overnight (minimum 3-4 hrs).<br />
Then enjoy t<i>he scrumptious, best you've ever eaten in your life cheesecake</i>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagywvfavwjs0ae4fsnVZqcvVmXy-XnT9k_zkR4FdEYRA8YSOBj_xQiVvQ9su-w0e3QVMW354aHYlKWAu3FJTI2xfRXe4gWJqZB3O93uLC4qpJvcpXr54DBC38sP3bElugb1aXjQMF2cP4/s1600/CCC+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagywvfavwjs0ae4fsnVZqcvVmXy-XnT9k_zkR4FdEYRA8YSOBj_xQiVvQ9su-w0e3QVMW354aHYlKWAu3FJTI2xfRXe4gWJqZB3O93uLC4qpJvcpXr54DBC38sP3bElugb1aXjQMF2cP4/s640/CCC+13.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Okay, second best you've ever eaten in your life cheesecake. <u>Second to The Nonesuch Cheesecake</u>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
<i><u>Ingredients</u></i><br />
<i>24 baked sugar cookies, crumbled</i><br />
<i>4 packages, Philadelphia cream cheese (8 oz)</i><br />
<i>1-1/3 cups sugar</i><br />
<i>4 eggs, lightly beaten</i><br />
<i>2 tbsps orange juice</i><br />
<i>2 tsps grated orange peel</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i><u>Instructions</u></i><br />
<i>Preheat oven to 350F</i><br />
<i>Form crust in lightly greased 9-in springform pan, making sure to form up the sides of the pan.</i><br />
<i>Beat the cream cheese until smooth.</i><br />
<i>Add sugar and beat for 1 minute.</i><br />
<i>Add eggs and beat on low speed just until combined.</i><br />
<i>Add orange juice and peel, beat on high 2-3 minutes.</i><br />
<i>Pour cheesecake mixture into formed crust. Wrap springform pan tightly with double heavy duty aluminum foil. </i><br />
<i>Place wrapped pan into shallow roasting pan. Fill roasting pan with hot water to the depth of 1 inch.</i><br />
<i>Bake 75-80 minutes.</i><br />
<i>Cool on wire rack for 10 minutes. Run knife around the edge of the pan to loosen and cool for 1 hour longer.</i><br />
<i>Remove foil and refrigerate over night, or 3-4 hours.</i>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-67326716710194171862011-05-05T08:02:00.001-04:002011-05-09T20:54:48.915-04:00Got Your Horse Picked Yet?Or <a href="http://www.deescrafts.com/hats/">your fancy hat</a>?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Don't even know what the derby is all about? (<i>Because it is <b>a lot</b> more than just a horse race</i>)<br />
<br />
Here is a nice montage to watch if your wondering, or if you can't make it to Louisville, Kentucky for the festivities:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/sK0L1IJ-YgM?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
You should go at least once to experience it. Put it on you <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/12/living-each-moment-your-bucket-list.html">bucket list</a>.<br />
<br />
Oh, and here is <a href="http://www.kentuckyderby.info/handicapping-kentuckyderby.php">some great info for selecting your horse</a>. If you're into that sort of thing.<br />
<br />
Missing My Old Kentucky Home,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-35420706369903974402011-05-03T08:05:00.003-04:002011-05-05T08:02:33.600-04:00Trying to Feel Like a HumanThere was a tragic death in my family recently.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
And as I sat in the funeral home, surrounded by the people that I love most in the world, I could only think about one thing.<br />
<br />
<b>Human relationships are everything.</b><br />
<br />
It's so simple and easy to say. So obvious. <br />
Something we know to be true. <br />
<br />
Humans are relational beings. A child left alone without human touch becomes physical sick, eventually dying. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashley_Montagu">Dr. Motagu</a>, a researcher from France, spent his career studying the relationship between human touch and connection. His book "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Touching-Human-Significance-Ashley-Montagu/dp/0060960280">Touching-The Human Significance of the Skin</a>" chronicles his findings.<br />
<br />
Can you imagine the rest of your life with out any kind of human interaction? Go ahead, take a moment. I'll wait.<br />
<br />
Scary, right?<br />
<br />
Yet, maintaining healthy relationships is something I lose sight of daily. Whether it's the failure to return a phone call, or simply not giving someone my full attention. More times than not I find myself focusing on me, rather than the people I care about. <br />
<br />
But when I was sitting on those hard pews, assessing my own mortality and staring death in the face, those words really engulfed me. I thought, "this is it. This is the true meaning of life. When it comes down to it nothing else really matters."<br />
<br />
Not my success.<br />
Not my possessions.<br />
Not the current situation that I'm stressed about right now.<br />
<br />
<b>Human relationships are everything.</b><br />
<br />
It's so easy to get caught up in the difficulties of life. <br />
I'm the worst. <br />
Stressed about money. Stressed about my future. About what other people think. About my plans.<br />
<br />
But when you strip all those things away, you find yourself surrounded by the people that love you for who you are. The people that really know you. The ones that you've shared thousands of meals with. Traveled hundreds of miles to exotic destinations. Cried. Laughed. Argued. And then laughed some more.<br />
<br />
The ones that you could call right now and they would be there in a heartbeat.<br />
<br />
The ones that will be standing at your funeral.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Human relationships are everything.</b><br />
<br />
<b></b>It's humbling. And fills me with the utmost gratitude when I think about my human relationships.<br />
<br />
They are crazy. Emotional. Exhilarating.<br />
<br />
And like life, they are messy. Funny, frustrating, and filled with the greatest concern and watchfulness. The people that I love so dearly, are also the same people that know exactly how to push my buttons.<br />
<br />
They aren't afraid to be honest, whether it's about how they really feel, or to tell you that your pants are way to tight.<br />
<br />
They are the people that I go to bed at night thinking about, sometimes laying awake for hours.<br />
The ones I yearn to hug, <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/10/south-simplifying.html">even from a distance</a>. <br />
The ones I enjoy sharing a walk to Starbucks with, or a lunch outside in the beautiful sun.<br />
<br />
They are the people that make my life rich. Filled to the brim.<br />
<br />
And whether we are held together by DNA or simply love, the bond runs deep.<br />
<br />
Let's change our mindset this week, making our human relationships a priority. Trading words, or <a href="http://www.commercialfreechildhood.org/screenfreeweek/index.html">screen time</a> for face-to-face interactions, where we can really pay attention.<br />
<br />
Let's do things that make us feel connected. That make us feel human.<br />
<br />
Stripping it all away,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-5I2dOz-IColasRzPbDyzHi06DUDDMBr2SJu7gpFIl8wCWH3N9anNrfTju9aS24upC9XzTEKIRnpghanHwqXO3PrwzlepoKXTaH2KV0rsbWCDoKQWU1rZ0fOfMHIKGRC7nwzJarOEmEp/s1600/Tears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-5I2dOz-IColasRzPbDyzHi06DUDDMBr2SJu7gpFIl8wCWH3N9anNrfTju9aS24upC9XzTEKIRnpghanHwqXO3PrwzlepoKXTaH2KV0rsbWCDoKQWU1rZ0fOfMHIKGRC7nwzJarOEmEp/s640/Tears.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div><br />
</div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-42785786919982622322011-04-28T06:48:00.001-04:002011-05-03T08:05:31.318-04:00Random ThursdayIn honor of the nuptials tomorrow......<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Kav0FEhtLug?rel=0" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
Lets hope <i>someone</i> tomorrow will be able to have that much fun.<br />
<br />
Happy Thursday,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-17354729123613679012011-04-25T08:09:00.001-04:002011-04-28T06:48:53.576-04:00Bueller? Bueller?<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/NP0mQeLWCCo?rel=0" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Wow two weeks since I've posted or shown my face around here.<br />
<br />
Don't worry I've been thinking about you friends and fellow readers. Actually after about one week of not posting I was starting to really get stressed out and panicky. Thinking I was failing, letting people down, and not on the simplifying journey.<br />
<br />
Then late one night, after lying awake for hours, it dawned on me. <b> I have been simplifying</b>. Quite a lot actually. I have been so caught up in reading about simplifying, writing about simplifying, and researching about simplifying that I didn't even recognize it when it was staring me straight in the face.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKlpQy6nv4caV4qKrvJmB7iWlEyVteU8wpNLZND6MS48EkxGm73G-qGVvxSJsx54pxNVsUXap-iJrSH_xLnCvSMiwy93qSCQ6I8WryOcE6RHnylAR2fLZFPPnKYG0tIHe-4NdZKL_jOEL/s1600/gary+-+two+bull+elk+fighting.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKlpQy6nv4caV4qKrvJmB7iWlEyVteU8wpNLZND6MS48EkxGm73G-qGVvxSJsx54pxNVsUXap-iJrSH_xLnCvSMiwy93qSCQ6I8WryOcE6RHnylAR2fLZFPPnKYG0tIHe-4NdZKL_jOEL/s400/gary+-+two+bull+elk+fighting.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Recently I've been traveling, spending time with precious family and friends, and sitting quietly outside; often times doing absolutely nothing. I even took a Sunday afternoon nap! It was divine and I would highly recommend it!<br />
<br />
The time has been good. It's been better than good, it's been fabulous!<br />
<br />
I was inspired to just take a step back by my friend Laura M's <a href="http://smashyourtelevision.com/2011/03/part-i-finding-the-balance-in-a-busy-life/">post</a> over at <a href="http://smashyourtelevision.com/">smash your tv and have adventures</a>. She wasn't afraid to take charge of her life and live it, letting go of all the "bloggy" expectations. I even lamented to her <a href="http://smashyourtelevision.com/2011/04/part-ii-letting-go/">about my own feelings of guilt</a> about not posting or having great ideas, and I loved her reply: "<i>Your life is more important than logging in to write about it</i>!"<br />
<br />
So that's what I've been doing. <b>Living my simple life and loving every minute</b>!<br />
<br />
No ideas, no words, just reflective and introspective. With quiet down time. <a href="http://smashyourtelevision.com/2011/04/the-sweetness-of-doing-nothing/">Trying to do nothing</a>.<br />
<br />
Through these quiet times I have noticed one thing coming up a lot lately. <br />
<br />
My overwhelming interests.<br />
<br />
I've <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/100%20things">whittled down a lot of my stuff</a> (<i>still in progress</i>). <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/12/skipping-christmas.html">Skipped holidays</a>. <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/03/biting-hand-that-feeds-me.html">Gave up Facebook</a>. <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/Dining%20In">Cooked at home</a>, a lot! <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/preventing-your-life-from-looking-like.html">Budgeted</a>, <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/02/cutting-cable-cord.html">cut the cable cord</a>, and even dabbled in the <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/03/not-for-faint-of-heart.html">bed bug epidemic</a>.<br />
<br />
But on top of all of that I've realized I'm still having a list of things to do a mile long <u>AFTER</u> I get home from my day job. <br />
<br />
You see I have this great knack of getting myself involved in <b>WAY</b> to many other things.<br />
<br />
Project upon projects. And they usually go unfinished.<br />
<br />
I still have a pair of knitted socks still on the needles in a closet somewhere as a testament.<br />
<br />
I like to say "<i>My eyes are always bigger than my capabilities</i>".<br />
<br />
And it's true. So true.<br />
<br />
My friend <a href="http://www.agoodandsimplelife.com/">Stacey</a> wrote a <a href="http://www.agoodandsimplelife.com/2011/03/on-simplifying-i-can-do-anything-but.html">great post on simplifying your interests</a> and realizing that just because you can do something doesn't mean you have to do everything.<br />
<br />
That post has been sticking with me for a while now, and I have found myself reflecting on it a lot.<br />
<br />
My current daily life things include my full time job (<i>plus a part time one</i>), maintaing healthy relationships, and not allowing my house to be condemned. (<i>And I don't even have offspring!</i>)<br />
<br />
Now stack on all my current projects: blogging, photography course, adventures in the kitchen, and volunteering.<br />
<br />
Plus projects in the works or that I am actively thinking about: becoming fluent in Spanish, learning how to play the piano.<br />
<br />
And it all becomes too much. I can't even hear myself think anymore. Or worse, I feel guilty for sitting and reading a book for an hour because I'm not being "productive".<br />
<br />
It's a crazy mentality, but one I'm currently trying to overcome.<br />
<br />
My first step. Completing the projects I'm currently involved in before moving on to a new one.<br />
<br />
Like this weekend, I worked really hard on my photography class and have completed everything except my last photo project! WhooHoo! (<i>This is something that's been hanging over my head for two years now, so I'm excited to see the end of the tunnel</i>)<br />
<br />
Taking a breather,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-88378283175536233482011-04-07T06:23:00.002-04:002011-04-25T08:10:09.510-04:00I'm Still AroundJust recovering from t<a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/03/madness-of-march.html">he madness of March</a> and enjoying time with my parents who are visiting.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Which makes me think of my childhood and the good memories it is filled with.<br />
<br />
Which makes me think of Disney movies, which I love to watch. Even today.<br />
<br />
Here is one of my favorites:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/99Op1TaXmCw?rel=0" title="YouTube video player" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
I hope you take time today just to enjoy the little things. Walking down memory lane. Spending quality time with the people you love. Taking a bubble bath. Eating dessert.<br />
<br />
Have a beautiful weekend!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-66451821553315313432011-03-31T16:43:00.002-04:002011-04-07T06:24:09.437-04:00The Madness of MarchThese past couple of weeks have been a little insane for me.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Currently, I am back in the tunnel of grant writing. Just like <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/12/december.html">last time</a>.<br />
<br />
So lets just take a moment and revel in the plethora of basketball going on this month.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0TLnW8tcQLA?rel=0" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
<i>Beautiful</i>.<br />
<br />
To my alma mater this weekend.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">C-A-T-S! Cats, Cats, Cats!!!</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-21740833583365242502011-03-23T20:23:00.001-04:002011-03-31T16:43:20.463-04:00A RantI've been fighting a cold/flu/viral 'bug' this week.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
I hate being sick. I feel so, unproductive. And miserable.<br />
<br />
This combination usually results in me being really cranky and taking it out on people.<br />
<br />
One thing that set me over the edge this week was.....<br />
<br />
<i>my cough drops</i>.<br />
<br />
I'm an avid user of <a href="http://www.gethalls.com/home.aspx">Halls</a>, mentho-lyptus specifically. <br />
<br />
These things work like a charm. <br />
<br />
This week (<i>as I'm hacking up a lung</i>) I pop my 25th <a href="http://www.gethalls.com/home.aspx">Halls</a> for the day when I notice some writing on the wrapper.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEith_KJkaSdyweDtG6qYcOYnKo0Gj1jBQNWx0AcN1EKivIHLejcxuNnnwSNlfacdaSvAwmZTY1qplk5YRhvRGIlv7p7up4CAmkt7WwAnYrAZL2YmLxc5d8Ixu7WCU5sW4FVgF3OWIoaCHLF/s1600/APepTalkInEveryDrop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEith_KJkaSdyweDtG6qYcOYnKo0Gj1jBQNWx0AcN1EKivIHLejcxuNnnwSNlfacdaSvAwmZTY1qplk5YRhvRGIlv7p7up4CAmkt7WwAnYrAZL2YmLxc5d8Ixu7WCU5sW4FVgF3OWIoaCHLF/s640/APepTalkInEveryDrop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Really, Halls?<br />
<br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A Pep Talk In Every Drop</span></i><br />
<br />
Flex my "can do" muscle?<br />
<br />
That's all you have to say after I haven't slept the past two days because I sound like I've been smoking three packs a day for 50 years.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/b7ZLqh79BKU?rel=0" title="YouTube video player" width="480"></iframe><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><b>A rendition of my nightly coughing episodes.</b></div><br />
Couldn't you just let me take my soothing menthol candy in peace?<br />
<br />
Or use the extra money you have lying around to find a cure for this bug? Or at least something that will help me sleep at night?<br />
<br />
Okay, I'll admit it might be the mucus talking. But shouldn't we just leave the "<i>Pep Talks"</i> for my after dinner <a href="http://www.dovechocolate.com/">Dove chocolate</a>?<br />
<br />
Trying to beat the gunk,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-11071653957873532412011-03-22T18:59:00.001-04:002011-03-23T20:23:24.116-04:00Doctored Cake from a BoxI've been going through a cake phase lately.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
This phase resulted in me making one round cake and 5 dozen cupcakes. Don't worry, I shared.....a little.<br />
I did let a few of those cupcakes help me through <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/02/there-is-nothing-cupcake-wont-fix.html">my crazy week</a>. And man were they delicious.<br />
<br />
I'm really not good at making cakes from scratch. They always turn out dry and crumbly. It's usually another <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/12/dining-in-recipe-failure.html">recipe failure</a>. This cake recipe is my saving grace. And will win you "oohs" and "aahs" from the dinner table. And you don't have to tell anyone it's from a box. Don't worry your secret is safe with me.<br />
<br />
Here are the ingredients you'll need:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LeMOUhAOy0lmUhb-zxSBFLhyphenhyphenpdteygx2uBDrg7GakGbNMs9ALYlVI2yaYtgDRP1OsPtYzcGNoW06hv7X_EaJyzabTQzasuB6Fygk_v7zZouz7BdWmZqF2Jeh8b3lQIN9cYKkqOHY1JeU/s1600/Cake+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LeMOUhAOy0lmUhb-zxSBFLhyphenhyphenpdteygx2uBDrg7GakGbNMs9ALYlVI2yaYtgDRP1OsPtYzcGNoW06hv7X_EaJyzabTQzasuB6Fygk_v7zZouz7BdWmZqF2Jeh8b3lQIN9cYKkqOHY1JeU/s640/Cake+01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
And you can do this with any cake box mix. I was in the mood for chocolate, so I decided to go with the classic yellow cake.<br />
<br />
Grease and flour your cake pans. You can use any size you want, or feel free to make cupcakes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivRamMvxfRDfZ4NhbZuencDwa06ZGQpdcbeGUpH1z23Y1NXYyPoy9XJFf-qo_K8wvnHSlPD2yL5f-vn9PzsoqSKFAXQqqzW6sCFuE7ndoOrbhMavR9bXUtDTHFC0DRjVeUc8S9KiPUsndG/s1600/Cake+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivRamMvxfRDfZ4NhbZuencDwa06ZGQpdcbeGUpH1z23Y1NXYyPoy9XJFf-qo_K8wvnHSlPD2yL5f-vn9PzsoqSKFAXQqqzW6sCFuE7ndoOrbhMavR9bXUtDTHFC0DRjVeUc8S9KiPUsndG/s640/Cake+02.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Dump that cake mix into a large mixing bowl. Then throw in some sugar (<i>1/4 c</i>), water (<i>1/4 c</i>), and an egg.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6jbd_6SUaNnAcYlcnxn5Q8IyuaIx-2nGPjRoAdlXU4SU29gPKh-mERCKsEp8pe2W73cls51inKbns156LlM7YWBAOKV2im8BbSiCi2zaTBPSuUFCEohB8nOX9PPu5utlbEC8AbyNFjuP/s1600/Cake+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6jbd_6SUaNnAcYlcnxn5Q8IyuaIx-2nGPjRoAdlXU4SU29gPKh-mERCKsEp8pe2W73cls51inKbns156LlM7YWBAOKV2im8BbSiCi2zaTBPSuUFCEohB8nOX9PPu5utlbEC8AbyNFjuP/s640/Cake+03.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
And mix it with an electric mixer until smooth. Then you'll need to mix in three more eggs. Only add them to the cake mix one at a time though.<br />
Next up is sour cream (<i>1 cup</i>). Plop that bad boy in the cake mixture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-mWAd_F922d6StW5UWHszswqk7kETWMNHzI_zcikybW9TqWVXa-UrnHh22CZVvdQulvlXGRbozECADkGJ7Y-CUdXHBnBcD7m-LZHtF1fPyYKaH9rFq4-H4mC1NJZAYCYhOcTq8BNGe_2/s1600/Cake+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-mWAd_F922d6StW5UWHszswqk7kETWMNHzI_zcikybW9TqWVXa-UrnHh22CZVvdQulvlXGRbozECADkGJ7Y-CUdXHBnBcD7m-LZHtF1fPyYKaH9rFq4-H4mC1NJZAYCYhOcTq8BNGe_2/s640/Cake+04.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
And mix it until smooth. Next add one stick of melted butter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfiXjc95gCoyHfmgvfNVyFGZSeWceF-nLfbeKQbobcOqaMz3QgJmh14QLYgxBab7TRKaqZz-6BSCiIZ3BSldh217-Glga9nPhY7WEOmKn9TKFaMq3aZV2yCYOrHL3OR6sq_7L_O2xKVWS/s1600/Cake+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfiXjc95gCoyHfmgvfNVyFGZSeWceF-nLfbeKQbobcOqaMz3QgJmh14QLYgxBab7TRKaqZz-6BSCiIZ3BSldh217-Glga9nPhY7WEOmKn9TKFaMq3aZV2yCYOrHL3OR6sq_7L_O2xKVWS/s640/Cake+05.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
And mix on high until the cake mixture is nice and thick.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE69qGdLA16w3XFIVfvTjLWX_QA0M_LWcmCzAVd-g__D3H1S7ZQLzMPTlItKPh-_UQ3cpZFzL8sYIilhxmPRJmKJPDCqJJDxthlRF5SuTJqI1yrcrLPJr1ht66GBy6pw0eoeahRPfU0bDn/s1600/Cake+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE69qGdLA16w3XFIVfvTjLWX_QA0M_LWcmCzAVd-g__D3H1S7ZQLzMPTlItKPh-_UQ3cpZFzL8sYIilhxmPRJmKJPDCqJJDxthlRF5SuTJqI1yrcrLPJr1ht66GBy6pw0eoeahRPfU0bDn/s640/Cake+06.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Yum! I could just stick my finger in it. The restraint was unbearable. I might have licked the beaters though. Who knows? <i>What happens in the kitchen, stays in the kitchen</i>.<br />
<br />
Now dump the cake mixture into your prepared pans.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jCp1-Yz3_mUnequSozZrAwBYOMiR7GVpMy4BhTK8LbSsAb0cN1VxPrwbtkGmU6abTzQrVhQvSVuYCEGGp1lN5D21XdOaNaSu_-0GeFLRKWdg0hdMFv2zVNGyx3Qikpsxa9Wco1LtYFVI/s1600/Cake+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jCp1-Yz3_mUnequSozZrAwBYOMiR7GVpMy4BhTK8LbSsAb0cN1VxPrwbtkGmU6abTzQrVhQvSVuYCEGGp1lN5D21XdOaNaSu_-0GeFLRKWdg0hdMFv2zVNGyx3Qikpsxa9Wco1LtYFVI/s640/Cake+07.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
And bake according to the instructions on the back of the box, adding 7-10 additional minutes. Also, be mindful that this increases your batter amount. So for example if you're making cupcakes you'll probably get 3 dozen cupcakes out of your mixture instead of 2. Things to keep in mind when preparing your cake pans.<br />
<br />
Bake and enjoy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhGGw9AyS69b8FddTPYQu3MN2Cn8paOvLljqKHcbKzEQc6CV5KH5fhukuw8urIdoSKTqYN1MWXEdgKEtoZ_Gu7aPETBnI3TOwo0qUvxOn2x34Ecc_SWc1LEKnSDx-rLzjUR0coj1h_0jP/s1600/Cake+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhGGw9AyS69b8FddTPYQu3MN2Cn8paOvLljqKHcbKzEQc6CV5KH5fhukuw8urIdoSKTqYN1MWXEdgKEtoZ_Gu7aPETBnI3TOwo0qUvxOn2x34Ecc_SWc1LEKnSDx-rLzjUR0coj1h_0jP/s640/Cake+08.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<br />
And have a piece (<i>or 2</i>) for me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
<i><u>Ingredients</u></i><br />
<i>1 box of cake mix</i><br />
<i>1 stick of butter, melted</i><br />
<i>4 eggs</i><br />
<i>1/4 c white sugar</i><br />
<i>1/4 c water</i><br />
<i>1 c sour cream</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i><u>Instructions</u></i><br />
<i>Grease and flour cake pans</i><br />
<i>Preheat oven to 350 degrees</i><br />
<i>Pour cake mix into large bowl. Add sugar and water, beat mixture on high until well blended</i><br />
<i>Add eggs to cake mixture one at a time and blend well</i><br />
<i>Add sour cream and blend until smooth</i><br />
<i>Add softened butter and mix on high until batter is thick</i><br />
<i>Follow the timing instructions on cake box for desired time (dependent on cake size), adding 7-10 additional minutes.</i>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-80403200707076546762011-03-17T09:02:00.001-04:002011-03-22T18:59:23.182-04:00A Warm Fuzzy...<a name='more'></a>.........just for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RP4abiHdQpc" title="YouTube video player" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Nothing can put a smile on your face faster than hearing a child's laughter.<br />
<br />
Smiles,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-52752206808970157102011-03-15T06:35:00.001-04:002011-03-17T09:02:47.348-04:00Winner, Winner...chicken dinner.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<i>Sorry couldn't help myself</i>.<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed reading all the different real-life ways you are simplifying. It's amazing how we can just change one little thing, and it makes the biggest difference. I'm really loving this journey with you.<br />
<br />
Okay, on to more important things.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And the winner is....</span></b><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZrWT0_d3-59O0lfYOppQ5_UNitatNxMHlvFjMHcKiUMEHyths0vU5d3k3t97rvatZmnTHAddMKEm7iiQvVbcas9lntfW6uxmS7PONCzZBGtUVFLHv2_J4wH0GrxIB7xsoVGzAzHD5hva/s1600/Giveaway+Winner_Mar2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZrWT0_d3-59O0lfYOppQ5_UNitatNxMHlvFjMHcKiUMEHyths0vU5d3k3t97rvatZmnTHAddMKEm7iiQvVbcas9lntfW6uxmS7PONCzZBGtUVFLHv2_J4wH0GrxIB7xsoVGzAzHD5hva/s640/Giveaway+Winner_Mar2011.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Yes I was old school and had my better half draw names out of a hat.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Congratulations, Laura M! Send an email to southernsimplifying@gmail.com to claim your <u>one year subscription to Pandora</u>!<br />
<br />
Thanks for playing,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1iXypcuSK98VUbLaITRl4-c0cXuYBJgybh07V3Dgy5Yfw8msm20tPE2MJAOR_ioCl4-6cx80ljwhaowZCBm7Sh7du7u9oBTwlMPl6DAyxfCoFWK93pPlMKmmnWUHOQp5DUnX6CNgKqru6/s1600/Pandora+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1iXypcuSK98VUbLaITRl4-c0cXuYBJgybh07V3Dgy5Yfw8msm20tPE2MJAOR_ioCl4-6cx80ljwhaowZCBm7Sh7du7u9oBTwlMPl6DAyxfCoFWK93pPlMKmmnWUHOQp5DUnX6CNgKqru6/s640/Pandora+01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-58429878734648165562011-03-12T06:27:00.002-05:002011-03-15T06:35:39.975-04:00GIVEAWAY!!!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: x-large;"><b>Happy 6 month anniversary!</b></span></div><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
It's official. This day is the 6 month mark of <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/10/south-simplifying.html">the start of this blog</a>, living in our <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/top-10-signs-of-southern-living.html">new southern location</a>, and the beginning of <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/02/let-dust-settle.html">my simplifying journey</a>.<br />
<br />
And to celebrate I thought it would be fun to do a giveaway.<br />
<br />
Because I love ya'. And appreciate ya' for joining me on this journey.<br />
<br />
<i>Okay, enough of the mushy stuff</i>.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>First, what's the prize</b></span>.<br />
<br />
One of my favorite things in the whole wide world.<br />
<br />
And guess what? It's not tangible, and doesn't take up any space. <br />
<br />
Pretty appropriate I think for our simplifying journey.<br />
<br />
Okay, the prize:<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">A one year subscription to PandoraOne.</span></b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/random-thursday-party-for-your-ears.html">A party for your ears</a> for an entire year!<br />
<br />
For those of you that aren't familiar with Pandora. Here is a little description:<br />
<br />
Pandora is the best way to listen to radio. You can listen to it from any computer or mobile device that has an internet connection. You create a free account, then create your own channels.<br />
<br />
This is the cool part.<br />
<br />
You create a channel based on an artists or genre of music. The program will then create a channel that plays songs by that artists and similar artists. And you can make as many channels as you would like.<br />
<br />
Here is a picture of what it looks like:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWY3_h0sgXM8CKq3vyd2Q4E10Wm1wIj1HOxvVB0bDZI-eMJMzbrswWNS1V8NFU_p-J9im22fZpcPLbUaMdUkwH9E2gHFK1BYxNSUy8FcggsO7kZGDw-SDZ1S9ZznmXElcclNNI57EJ44B/s1600/Pandora+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWY3_h0sgXM8CKq3vyd2Q4E10Wm1wIj1HOxvVB0bDZI-eMJMzbrswWNS1V8NFU_p-J9im22fZpcPLbUaMdUkwH9E2gHFK1BYxNSUy8FcggsO7kZGDw-SDZ1S9ZznmXElcclNNI57EJ44B/s640/Pandora+02.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The awesome part is with your one-year subscription you will have <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">unlimited</span></b>, <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ad-free</span></b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">listening</span></b>.<br />
<br />
Here is further explanation <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_4507091_use-pandora-radio.html">if needed</a>.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><s>How to Enter:</s></span></b><br />
<s><br />
</s><br />
<s>To enter the giveaway, simply answer the following question in the comments section of this post:</s><br />
<s><br />
</s><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><s>What is something you are currently doing to simplify your life? </s></span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><s>Or want to start doing?</s></span></i></div><s><br />
</s><br />
<s>The Contest ends Monday night, March 14th, at 8pm EST. One entry per person please.</s><br />
<s><br />
</s><br />
<s>One winner will be randomly chosen, announced <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/">here at Simplifying in the South</a>, and receive their gift subscription by email.</s><br />
<s><br />
</s><br />
<s>Don't forget, replies to comments don't count! So be sure to scroll all the way down to the bottom and leave your reply in the comment form.</s><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1iXypcuSK98VUbLaITRl4-c0cXuYBJgybh07V3Dgy5Yfw8msm20tPE2MJAOR_ioCl4-6cx80ljwhaowZCBm7Sh7du7u9oBTwlMPl6DAyxfCoFWK93pPlMKmmnWUHOQp5DUnX6CNgKqru6/s1600/Pandora+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1iXypcuSK98VUbLaITRl4-c0cXuYBJgybh07V3Dgy5Yfw8msm20tPE2MJAOR_ioCl4-6cx80ljwhaowZCBm7Sh7du7u9oBTwlMPl6DAyxfCoFWK93pPlMKmmnWUHOQp5DUnX6CNgKqru6/s640/Pandora+01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Because I love ya',<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>*Oh, and Pandora has no clue who I am. No affiliation, no sponsorship, blah, blah, blah. Just a favorite of mine I thought you would enjoy.</i>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-69720143337375943662011-03-10T06:18:00.001-05:002011-03-12T06:27:54.588-05:00Not For The Faint of Heart<i>Warning this post could make you itch uncontrollably.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Or have nightmares of bugs crawling all over you.<br />
<br />
Or both.<br />
<br />
And I should probably go ahead and apologize to my mother, because she won't be able to sleep for an entire week after reading this. <i>Sorry Mom</i>.<br />
<br />
And you can thank my <a href="http://dealingwithpcos.blogspot.com/">dear cousin</a> for instigating this post, so she'll be accepting all complaints.<br />
<br />
Seriously though, as itchy as this is to read <u>you need to know</u>.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>A Personal History Lesson</b></span><br />
<br />
In February 2009 I went to Myrtle Beach with my dear friend to run in a half marathon.<br />
<br />
We had a great time, finished the race (<i>which was an accomplishment in our book</i>) and stayed in a pretty nice hotel near the ocean.<br />
<br />
While waiting on us to finish the race, <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Better%20Half">my better half</a> spent the morning in the hotel room and happened to notice a couple of bugs crawling across the other bed (<i>the one we hadn't slept on</i>). After investigating further and removing the sheets he found <i>several </i>little black spots and <i>more bugs</i> underneath the sheets. <br />
<br />
So we checked out, filed a complaint with the manager, and after some hassling they refunded our night's stay.<br />
<br />
On the trip home I was feeling kind of itchy, but didn't really think much about it. Chalking it up to utter exhaustion and hypochondriac tendencies<br />
<br />
A day later my arm looked like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZweq-sC4Uy64xzaiRljjQ5z3F13Jh7qlLeEO83YqIeRkcJ-qummrw09tixXJ8KYVcZVhDN_-JCrv0WljTfC8bdsxFo516_YVHglyKxZxiLJquKC_Qq3ulDSVQEeCprNxVn___H8YXaUZO/s1600/Bedbugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZweq-sC4Uy64xzaiRljjQ5z3F13Jh7qlLeEO83YqIeRkcJ-qummrw09tixXJ8KYVcZVhDN_-JCrv0WljTfC8bdsxFo516_YVHglyKxZxiLJquKC_Qq3ulDSVQEeCprNxVn___H8YXaUZO/s640/Bedbugs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
They were also all over my back, but I'll spare you the pudgy pictures.<br />
<br />
After seeing a dermatologists and talking to my parent's faithful <a href="http://www.orkin.com/">bugman</a>, the conclusion was I had been attacked by <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Bed Bugs</span></b>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRJs51SXWRW66zljiEOjbTr6Joeoj4UC9aeORe1lILTx1xOZ9WN1GI2M97c1aBYUUayNpoVlO2SlHnH2gRNoOCObjMBNEZDO0YnKSUVWnlW3uTGWwUL-5jkfw6lQVcxAgxjQUaHE-8nXO/s1600/bedbug.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRJs51SXWRW66zljiEOjbTr6Joeoj4UC9aeORe1lILTx1xOZ9WN1GI2M97c1aBYUUayNpoVlO2SlHnH2gRNoOCObjMBNEZDO0YnKSUVWnlW3uTGWwUL-5jkfw6lQVcxAgxjQUaHE-8nXO/s400/bedbug.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">So History Doesn't Repeat Itself</span></b><br />
<br />
This was an experience to say the least. We had to throw out almost everything that we had taken with us on the trip. (<i>To prevent bed bug infestation in our house</i>). It took a while but the hotel did pay for damages (<i>primarily our luggage we had to get rid of</i>) and doctor's bills.<br />
<br />
There is a <a href="http://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/dispatches/post/2011/02/news-from-the-national-bed-bug-summit-/141109/1">Bed Bug Epidemic</a> going on in the United States right now. It's becoming a major issue in hotels and vacation rental properties.<br />
<br />
Bed Bugs are something I like to call '<i>tiny vampires</i>'.<br />
<br />
You know "<i>I vant to suck your blood</i>" (Romanian accent here)<br />
<br />
They are parasitic insects, that feed on human blood. I'll spare you the gruesome details, but if you have a strong stomach you can find more information <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bed_bug">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Bed Bugs are cunning little things. They are very small, nocturnal, and love small dark places. And they love to lay their eggs in fabric seams.<br />
<br />
They remain close to their hosts (<i>that's you</i>) and are commonly found in beds, couches, and luggage.<br />
<br />
So hotels are the prime breeding ground.<br />
<br />
And it's not just <a href="http://travel.usatoday.com/hotels/post/2010/09/bed-bugs-attack-pop-singer-lauren-hildebrandt-/110733/1">the cheap ones</a>.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">What you can do to prevent an attack</span></b><br />
<br />
<b>Before you leave</b> for your trip (or even book your hotel) look up your place at <a href="http://bedbugregistry.com/">The Bedbug Registry</a>. <br />
This is a free database of user-submitted bed bug reports. It's worth taking a gander.<br />
<br />
<b>In the room</b> pull back the sheets and inspect the mattress. Take a flashlight and look along the mattress seams. Things to look for: little black spots (<i>smaller than a poppy seed</i>), live bugs. Here is a great video on how to perform a <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11877871/ns/travel-travel_tips/">thorough inspection</a>.<br />
<br />
If you find bedbugs, let the hotel know and move to a different room. However, usually if one room has it, that means the entire hotel is infested so you might want to look into finding another place to stay.<br />
<br />
<b>When you come home</b> unpack in your garage or outside. Wash everything in hot water and dry on high heat immediately. More tips from an entomologist <a href="http://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/dispatches/post/2011/02/news-from-the-national-bed-bug-summit-/141109/1">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Because I love ya' more than my luggage.<br />
<br />
And don't want you to have to throw out your luggage.<br />
<br />
Be safe. Be informed. Be bug-free.<br />
<br />
<br />
Starting to feel a little itchy,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-77484696378481403682011-03-08T07:36:00.002-05:002011-03-10T06:18:50.065-05:00A Cure For Mr. ForgetfulI've told you before, <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/7-benefits-of-being-spontaneous.html">I am a scheduler</a>.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Type A personality.<br />
<br />
Controlling.<br />
<br />
Time-conscious.<br />
<br />
Whatever you want to call it. I love lists and planners. They're my comfort blanket.<br />
<br />
So when <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Better%20Half">my better half</a> showed me <a href="http://www.google.com/googlecalendar/about.html">Google calendar</a> I just about fainted.<br />
<br />
You see in our previous life (<a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/10/south-simplifying.html"><i>back home</i></a>) we were always on the go, booked completely.<br />
<br />
It was so bad we often sat down at the beginning of each month and had a '<i>Calendar Meeting</i>', right after we talked about <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/preventing-your-life-from-looking-like.html">our budget</a>.<br />
<br />
This was a chance to keep each other updated on the month's events. Informing one another about what we had going on, and what events the other one needed to attend.<br />
<br />
Now thanks to google calendar, we spend more time doing <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/other-364-days.html">things we love</a>, instead of having '<i>Calendar Meetings</i>'.<br />
<br />
Here is how it works:<br />
<br />
<b>First things first, you need a gmail account. </b>Which is easy to get, just go <a href="http://mail.google.com/mail/help/intl/en/about.html">here</a>. Once you have your account you automatically have access to all gmail features, including the calendar.<br />
<br />
<b>Start creating events. </b>Click on the Create event tab here:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Gvqsvl_hy3DdjLImlCRwCKGk5cb4wdoVSji-uxbHLKqkOXVWXkZ_n1UXdVEOKLTJ4m4cdHOMr2Y-TVOaUCBO9yl8cQ3YpCXilf4ofRVUqnaMLxCkv2eprG971BAqeSB6RuwxpI910uvI/s1600/GCalendar+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Gvqsvl_hy3DdjLImlCRwCKGk5cb4wdoVSji-uxbHLKqkOXVWXkZ_n1UXdVEOKLTJ4m4cdHOMr2Y-TVOaUCBO9yl8cQ3YpCXilf4ofRVUqnaMLxCkv2eprG971BAqeSB6RuwxpI910uvI/s640/GCalendar+01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
That will take you to a screen that looks something like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyA8dTmFTQTskT4GwGEvUtO7LsnfKcJ8QtPedz4vd5oI_KDs9CXCWTM2gP01C-K9Buo2Ifu75TuWxcK6SWgqQqULcFGa7v5MleEgr0Db-xwFIQMjIfZoUp7_Z5d-6DTIQxOXiTskuR8Co/s1600/GCalendar+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyA8dTmFTQTskT4GwGEvUtO7LsnfKcJ8QtPedz4vd5oI_KDs9CXCWTM2gP01C-K9Buo2Ifu75TuWxcK6SWgqQqULcFGa7v5MleEgr0Db-xwFIQMjIfZoUp7_Z5d-6DTIQxOXiTskuR8Co/s640/GCalendar+02.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
Here you can fill in all the details of the event. Date, time, location.<br />
My favorite part is you can even invite guest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8808FTCwcl-Ynl3UKP_NxZbzcMIx8NiKnuHXx_00tlFha5Yf3PoUq3Hk3eAe8wyE4CccZY4Z433Mnyj9cbRDUKJtbeI8RHY9heulz8LSkyc82qtQ6RVGxnCu7RKVY4Jbr3LttB4aUdM3n/s1600/GCalendar+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8808FTCwcl-Ynl3UKP_NxZbzcMIx8NiKnuHXx_00tlFha5Yf3PoUq3Hk3eAe8wyE4CccZY4Z433Mnyj9cbRDUKJtbeI8RHY9heulz8LSkyc82qtQ6RVGxnCu7RKVY4Jbr3LttB4aUdM3n/s640/GCalendar+03.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
So whenever I want to let <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Better%20Half">my better half</a> know of an event coming up that he needs to attend with me I just put in his email and he automatically gets a notification about it. He can even RSVP.<br />
<br />
I'm currently drafting a letter to <a href="http://www.google.com/googlecalendar/about.html">Google</a> to remove the <u><i>maybe</i></u> option in the RSVP response. <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Better%20Half"> My better half</a> likes to reply <i><u>maybe</u></i> to my invitations just to ruffle my feathers. He thinks it's funny. Of course, his attendance usually isn't optional.<br />
<br />
<b>Never forget a birthday or anniversary again. </b>Ever since using <a href="http://www.google.com/googlecalendar/about.html">Google calendar</a> we are rockin' on remembering all of our family and friends birthdays. Nothing makes me more excited (<i>or feel more special</i>) when people remember my birthday. It's such a fun way for us to deepen important relationships and let someone know how much <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/12/random-thursday-snail-mail.html">we care about them</a>.<br />
<br />
So it's that simple. Try out <a href="http://www.google.com/googlecalendar/about.html">Google calendar</a>, and never forget an important event again.<br />
<br />
Keepin' it real,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>*Oh, and Google has no clue who I am. No affiliation, no sponsorship, blah, blah, blah. Just a favorite of mine I thought you would enjoy.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMV2bUnzrpYwcxaszuYSuZEWKQZWYldz5NEu946bATBx4EaJROqGnCHfrEV_roFeAgghOE3CPHcs1Ov549VZySzAwSFlBnmFzcdgiVMNj1P2ufQClfbQFS-axlNKR5PR32vHl91Z6nSjP/s1600/forgetful.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMV2bUnzrpYwcxaszuYSuZEWKQZWYldz5NEu946bATBx4EaJROqGnCHfrEV_roFeAgghOE3CPHcs1Ov549VZySzAwSFlBnmFzcdgiVMNj1P2ufQClfbQFS-axlNKR5PR32vHl91Z6nSjP/s1600/forgetful.jpeg" /></a></div><i><br />
</i></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-25143869549826256452011-03-04T15:03:00.001-05:002011-03-08T07:37:03.611-05:00Girl Scout Cookie PieIt's that time of year again.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
When you pass the little girls in their brown outfits, shivering outside storefronts, bright and early on Saturday morning.<br />
<br />
I love those little girls and the cookies they are so excited to sell you.<br />
<br />
My favorite. The Tagalongs. Or now called <a href="http://www.girlscoutcookies.org/">Peanut Butter Patties</a>.<br />
<br />
This year instead of devouring an entire box in one sitting I decided to get a little creative and use the cookies for a dessert recipe.<br />
<br />
It was motivated by finding this little piece of paper:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckXqbvOmCjP8I3kztVnHFl1VjhMZpKYAd4lz6qxGs75t0ibsWctq8Ic9hud_e8n6EtuDv8Thbv6Ynrs5OBIJuXyPMrza4b1g6nm_m21S-uSF-rlP8drP7fI1DpHMOe3lacd7j0gWGphSg/s1600/GS+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckXqbvOmCjP8I3kztVnHFl1VjhMZpKYAd4lz6qxGs75t0ibsWctq8Ic9hud_e8n6EtuDv8Thbv6Ynrs5OBIJuXyPMrza4b1g6nm_m21S-uSF-rlP8drP7fI1DpHMOe3lacd7j0gWGphSg/s640/GS+01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
It was in a pile of old recipes my Mom passed down to me recently. And it was from my days spent as a little girl in a little brown outfits.<br />
<br />
And the recipe called for an entire box of my favorites, which I loved.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis62Ls7q15UqDZoEjp3YybbHk72yApGEEajq7DtWgh7ieQKrbsIL5qzNQ3SLuwh4lUJJKuRxlunpSZ9dzJrpfhyphenhyphenzZ0PXZkIgOSSCWLXtPdcZt4i3vZV56gEkfI6BIn3chSnrEaByjje284/s1600/GS+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis62Ls7q15UqDZoEjp3YybbHk72yApGEEajq7DtWgh7ieQKrbsIL5qzNQ3SLuwh4lUJJKuRxlunpSZ9dzJrpfhyphenhyphenzZ0PXZkIgOSSCWLXtPdcZt4i3vZV56gEkfI6BIn3chSnrEaByjje284/s640/GS+02.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
And it's a <b>SUPER</b> <u>simple</u> recipe, which made it even better.<br />
<br />
First you'll need to get a pre-made pie crust.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlzCNa65efEpNZCtbcqcCmHcWhPgIqzV93aVsIqo1S-IrieafsWdT7zvnDXyc9w-Cxv3k4pZ-dX8TcDtkd-7kBkingVxatGvB2PndDCrn09v6onCSHaCeMuT2by7YKpA1AXIiSrreNUsW/s1600/GS+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlzCNa65efEpNZCtbcqcCmHcWhPgIqzV93aVsIqo1S-IrieafsWdT7zvnDXyc9w-Cxv3k4pZ-dX8TcDtkd-7kBkingVxatGvB2PndDCrn09v6onCSHaCeMuT2by7YKpA1AXIiSrreNUsW/s640/GS+03.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Better%20Half">My better half </a>(our official grocery shopper at the moment) could only find a oreo pie crust, which turned out to be the best addition to the recipe. Have you experienced oreos and peanut butter? Oh, you need to. That's a future recipe post.<br />
<br />
Oh, and you'll need a box of instant vanilla pudding (<i>3.4 oz</i>).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj895t-5JPuHc4nClMeTs8NvknYtED3e0C80JavIDYeWKm92dpg9EEiibTzcsI2jJVHbw0RYLxljxvXq_Hwrw_v6Wl52jlp5nODTt3psQcIBl3QuXEO4v3C-UnjqJVzs2bDJg13S-R5vvpT/s1600/GS+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj895t-5JPuHc4nClMeTs8NvknYtED3e0C80JavIDYeWKm92dpg9EEiibTzcsI2jJVHbw0RYLxljxvXq_Hwrw_v6Wl52jlp5nODTt3psQcIBl3QuXEO4v3C-UnjqJVzs2bDJg13S-R5vvpT/s640/GS+04.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
In a large bowl, mix together milk (<i>1-1/2 cups</i>) and pudding mix with an electric mixer for 1 minute. Then let it stand for 5 minutes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRpP50Z9uM0OBmtApIKbX45Ue4v_NLs1-1_UXiowfIV8fvC6sj_VPFwTcmfzt1bEsM56QSMzYOlyo50vvtA2JX5M34Pw1bXaNu6NHBF-YXvtFG2tTxUzuEX1JE-mDMHzHclmpUPpZbpQWx/s1600/GS+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRpP50Z9uM0OBmtApIKbX45Ue4v_NLs1-1_UXiowfIV8fvC6sj_VPFwTcmfzt1bEsM56QSMzYOlyo50vvtA2JX5M34Pw1bXaNu6NHBF-YXvtFG2tTxUzuEX1JE-mDMHzHclmpUPpZbpQWx/s640/GS+05.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Then fold in the cool whip (<i>1 cup</i>)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPs268x8R4f1mVfEJeCBbrTjIC7NIeYMXD3Qtn8FY_JsaDUYwP6STVZz2Hw7DwCRstzncVJchHROcCiBDoz3MbpvS3kH5LuWhwGiXNT8z4FpqVZm23UxbnPaIZuEcasgYH0WUp_5Iu7NU/s1600/GS+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPs268x8R4f1mVfEJeCBbrTjIC7NIeYMXD3Qtn8FY_JsaDUYwP6STVZz2Hw7DwCRstzncVJchHROcCiBDoz3MbpvS3kH5LuWhwGiXNT8z4FpqVZm23UxbnPaIZuEcasgYH0WUp_5Iu7NU/s640/GS+06.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
And the crushed cookies (<i>1 box of peanut butter patties</i>)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4yylvHNrij2Vwviw1qosDN2GUT7XxZ_lCzn6D93ZzFYso9reyrON0xaN2Nn8pdr_cHtzuAAE1nja1BLXF_PmvukzuC1UA4dCdKQ7asA7oIKlJ4AdtxeZ9rY7Zo5mtMo6zWafAbNqVGzO/s1600/GS+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4yylvHNrij2Vwviw1qosDN2GUT7XxZ_lCzn6D93ZzFYso9reyrON0xaN2Nn8pdr_cHtzuAAE1nja1BLXF_PmvukzuC1UA4dCdKQ7asA7oIKlJ4AdtxeZ9rY7Zo5mtMo6zWafAbNqVGzO/s640/GS+07.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Dump that mixture into your pie crust and freeze it overnight.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1MuXNlLRLjZel9s-dROz6Rk5UUPuEpsb5JpbwxUEdNm5wcXCUPiDvS2E0jN-qklnSDXU3ejIfMMfT_8sdeT49XdeAay_kPQM2eq8ZnqEloE2tSMhIMqgcPp-MtOQnE7kW2HHnj_V4J3wO/s1600/GS+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1MuXNlLRLjZel9s-dROz6Rk5UUPuEpsb5JpbwxUEdNm5wcXCUPiDvS2E0jN-qklnSDXU3ejIfMMfT_8sdeT49XdeAay_kPQM2eq8ZnqEloE2tSMhIMqgcPp-MtOQnE7kW2HHnj_V4J3wO/s640/GS+08.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
The next day, set the pie out for 10-15 minutes before serving.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_oqASVvrC6VE_ADbx0RZvsDY24mQAA7zIlbdACpdNoXQKLVOlhP73kaPhkYo6INKQwCgIjn96LsREw-qVdl7QfZ42TZXkqeTzj3w_MCNNaE6NowXZ6F4r6G9I7CLFT1Vy6dfaEwEAihzi/s1600/GS+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_oqASVvrC6VE_ADbx0RZvsDY24mQAA7zIlbdACpdNoXQKLVOlhP73kaPhkYo6INKQwCgIjn96LsREw-qVdl7QfZ42TZXkqeTzj3w_MCNNaE6NowXZ6F4r6G9I7CLFT1Vy6dfaEwEAihzi/s640/GS+09.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
It is delicious! A great use for those extra girl scout cookies you have. And I would recommend going with the oreo crust, scrumptious!!<br />
<br />
Three-finger salute,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
<i><u>Ingredients</u></i><br />
<i>1 1/2 c milk</i><br />
<i>1 box of instant vanilla pudding (3.4 oz)</i><br />
<i>1 cup Cool Whip (8 oz container)</i><br />
<i>1 box of peanut butter patties, girl scout cookies (crushed)</i><br />
<i>1 pre-made chocolate pie crust</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i><u>Instructions</u></i><br />
<i>Beat together milk and pudding for 1 minute</i><br />
<i>Set to the side and let the mixture stand for 5 minutes</i><br />
<i>Fold in cool whip and crushed cookies</i><br />
<i>Spoon the cookie mixture into a pre-made pie crust</i><br />
<i>Freeze over night or for a minimum of 6 hours</i><br />
<i>Set out of freezer 10-15 minutes before serving</i>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-40796634539785971242011-03-03T06:12:00.001-05:002011-03-04T15:04:01.275-05:00Making Some Noise for MikeHow long did it take you to learn how to spell the word, MISSISSIPPI?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
You remember, fourth grade geography, learning all the states and their capitals? Struggling to keep straight Bismarck & Boise.<br />
<br />
The spelling of MISSISSIPPI was always difficult for me. I wrote it 50 billion times, learned <a href="http://www.fun-with-words.com/hard_spelling.html">the song</a>, and recited it to my mother about a million different times.<br />
<br />
It took a while. Six months exactly.<br />
<br />
Six months of reciting that forever long state, M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I.<br />
<br />
And today, twenty plus years later, when I think about <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzhzCF77GDo">Johnny Cash</a> or magnolias, I struggle with the spelling, having to remind myself. Singing that <a href="http://www.fun-with-words.com/hard_spelling.html">crazy song</a>.<br />
<br />
This is what I thought about when I devoured my friend Mike's ebook, <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">Rise Above the Noise</a> this week. <br />
<br />
Don't worry, it's not about Mississippi. <br />
<br />
But the book is kind of like the <a href="http://www.fun-with-words.com/hard_spelling.html">Mississippi song</a>. <br />
<br />
You need it. To have in your head. To start singing when life gets messy. To support you when society pulls you back into the status quo and the suffocating world of consumerism. To reenforce you on your journey.<br />
<br />
So for this <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/Random%20Thursday">Random Thursday</a> I wanted to take time to tell you about <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">Mike's fantastic ebook</a> and let you know why I've listed it under my favorites. <br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The Breakdown</span></b><br />
<br />
Okay, so what is this book about? <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">Rise Above the Noise</a>. I thought of two words to describe the content.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Identify</b></i>. <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/">Mike</a> helps us identify the noise in our lives, and the source. Looking into how our never-ending freedom puts us in this position, with unlimited choices becoming a burden.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Counter-Attack</b></i>. Time is invaluable resource that we need to fight for. We only get one chance at this life, and taking small steps now can help use deal with the overwhelming noise later.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Why should you pay money for this book?</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Reason 1.</u> </b>This is a single source, with a wealth of information. I love reading blogs, and I could read blogs all day. But I often get overwhelmed, only skimming the material to move on to the next post. This ebook, got me away from the internet. I was able to sit down, and think about it. Taking time for introspection and to learn. I'll be sitting down with this <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">ebook</a> for a couple of weeks, journaling and trying to implement the practical applications.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Reason 2.</u></b> Support a worthy cause. <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/">Mike</a> is doing something awesome with this <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">ebook</a>. Not only do you get great information, the money raised during the first week of the ebook launch is going to <a href="http://www.hopeinternational.org/site/PageServer">Hope International</a>. This is an amazing organization that does what I like to call 'teaching people how to fish'; instead of just 'giving them fish'. Providing small business loans to people in underserved communities.<br />
<br />
And if you don't get around to purchasing the ebook the first week, you can still help out <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/">a poor college student</a>. And a lot of you know what it feels like to be a poor college student.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Reason 3.</u></b> It doesn't take up any space and only cost $10. So you don't have to add one more thing to your pile of clutter, a minimalists dream.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Who should buy this book for?</span></b><br />
<br />
<b>Yourself.</b> Cause it's a great source of knowledge on how to manage all the information and choices we face daily. A great 'song' to have as your support when your faced with the noise of life.<br />
<br />
<b>A Newbie Minimalists.</b> This <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">ebook</a> is a great starter for new found minimalism. <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/">Mike</a> includes great tips and advice that you can start applying the moment you put down the book. And you also get wonderful perspectives from fellow bloggers such as <a href="http://rowdykittens.com/">Tammy Strobel</a>, <a href="http://exilelifestyle.com/">Colin Wright</a>, and <a href="http://tylertervooren.com/">Tyler Tervooren</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>A Seasoned Minimalists.</b> Because often we need reminders and reinforcement. And we could all take time to identify the unhealthy noise in our lives.<br />
<br />
<b>An Overwhelmed Friend.</b> Mike does a great job of putting words to things we often can't explain. The 'why' questions. <br />
<br />
<i>"Why do I never have enough time?" </i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>"Why don't I have any real friends?"</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>"Why am I never satisfied?"</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://artofminimalism.com/">Mike</a> identifies the noises that cause us to have no time, no deep relationships, and no contentment. Along with giving you practical applications on how to rise above it.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">How should you read this book?</span></b><br />
<br />
In your comfy chair, with a pint of <a href="http://www.benjerry.com/">Ben & Jerry's</a> and a journal. <br />
<br />
Okay, that's how I read this book. <br />
<i>And it was only half a pint of <a href="http://www.benjerry.com/">Ben & Jerry's</a>.</i><br />
<br />
What I'm saying is this is an <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">ebook</a> you need to take time with. Let it read you. Stop and ponder the deep questions asked.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">Rise Above the Noise</a> is something we can examine again and again, helping us identify the constant pull of society. We can learn how to be proactive, fighting to protect our most valuable asset, <u>time</u>. The ideas in the book are things we need to continually be reminded of, until we have reached our goal of the simple life.<br />
<br />
M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwpV0N94Q8cHJKPljHKo7DcMK6ctjiIQLu5ElwTxmaGRMmlU_Rxv4UGBYSXTBilaSMvAfXpP0fQOCdZDJdlP51eGlOa2ocq_dJof7okblXqTOknNKF3upVmZMrOV52fToNcKzvtAsqSWT/s1600/ebookcover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwpV0N94Q8cHJKPljHKo7DcMK6ctjiIQLu5ElwTxmaGRMmlU_Rxv4UGBYSXTBilaSMvAfXpP0fQOCdZDJdlP51eGlOa2ocq_dJof7okblXqTOknNKF3upVmZMrOV52fToNcKzvtAsqSWT/s400/ebookcover.png" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">So head on over to Mike's place, and check out his <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/rise-above-the-noise/">new book</a>. </div><div><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Loving this journey,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-1458805639300878472011-03-01T06:37:00.001-05:002011-03-03T06:13:30.768-05:00Biting the Hand That Feeds MeI have a confession to make.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
You're probably going to need to sit down for this one.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Okay, are you ready? Sitting down?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I only check my Facebook account once a week.</span></b><br />
<br />
You weren't expecting that one now were you?<br />
<br />
And you are probably reading this right now because you clicked on this post where I share it, <i>on Facebook</i>.<br />
<br />
I'm not opposed to Facebook by any means. I actually love the idea of it. It's helped me connect with old friends, stay in touch with family <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/10/south-simplifying.html">from a distance</a>, and will be a huge help in planning my class reunion (<i>in the future</i>).<br />
<br />
It's also a <a href="http://www.christography.com/blog/2011/2/14/limitations-become-opportunity-with-facebooks-new-page-layou.html?lastPage=true&postSubmitted=true">great tool for publicity and business</a>. I love sharing my ideas on Facebook and reading people's responses. Actually, a lot of my friends stumbled upon this blog from Facebook.<br />
<br />
But, I think Facebook has a dark side. <br />
<br />
It can be <u><b>a substitution for genuine relationships</b></u>. A replacement of <a href="http://www.christography.com/blog/2011/2/24/the-first-light-i-see-is-no-longer-the-sun.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+BehindTheLensWithChrisCorradino+(Behind+the+Lens+with+Chris+Corradino)">face-to-face interactions</a>.<br />
<br />
What do you do when you're bored, lonely, or avoiding work?<br />
<br />
Me? I checked Facebook. Scrolling through pages and pages of News Feed, reading peoples statuses updates. Looking at pictures. <br />
<br />
Learning about what was going on in people's lives without even having to talk to them.<br />
<br />
Oh, but I was really good at pretending I had. When I stepped back into realty and met up with other friends I would talk and talk about what other people were up to. All the information I obtained was from Facebook.<br />
<br />
"<i>Oh, yeah they just had a baby</i>." <br />
<br />
"<i>Well they've moved to Florida</i>."<br />
<br />
"<i>Can you believe his hair is that color</i>?"<br />
<br />
Talking about them just like they had called and told me themselves. Like I was actually genuine friends with them. Engaged in their lives. In a real relationship. Not an electronic one.<br />
<br />
I was really just pretending. Because it was easy. Just following people, giving nothing in return. No hardwork, or love, components required for real relationships.<br />
<br />
So these past couple of weeks I've been trying to be mindful. Of my time and my effort in relationships. Mindful of the distraction technology plays in my life. <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/my-sneaking-suspicion-about-twitter-and-facebook/">Mike Donghai</a> says it best:<br />
<br />
"<i>I’m mindful of the ways that technology encroaches on my life. The sneaky way it steals me away from the things I truly value. And even the way it alters human relationships and social networks</i>."<br />
<br />
I'm not saying cancel your Facebook account today. I'm certainly not. <br />
<br />
Remember, we're going for <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/02/let-dust-settle.html">Simple not Crazy</a>.<br />
<br />
I'm hoping to stimulate us to start being mindful of our time and engage in genuine relationships with people. Here are some simple things to try:<br />
<br />
<u><b>Be genuinely interested</b></u>. I read an article by Scott Dinsmore from the blog <a href="http://www.readingforyoursuccess.com/">Reading for your Success</a>. It was about personally engaging people and not letting technology let you <a href="http://www.alistbloggingbootcamps.com/9941/from-100-to-3000-subscribers-in-9-months/">forget to be human</a>. Living in real, sometimes messy community with people is how we build lasting bonds with people. Sometimes it's difficult, but definitely <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/02/lord-i-need-patience-and-i-want-it.html">worth the journey</a>.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Send them a Facebook message</u></b>. You can use Facebook to really connect with people. I really like sending messages on Facebook. It's more personal, deeper way to connect.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Limit your number of friends</b></u>. Great suggestion by <a href="http://artofminimalism.com/facebook-made-simple/">Mike</a>. Are you really friends with the 798 Facebook friends you have? Ask yourself why you decide to accept friend request. Is it just to increase your number? Are your real friends getting lost in the masses?<br />
<br />
<u><b>Set a time limit</b></u>. This was a great tip from <a href="http://rowdykittens.com/2011/02/socialmediadiet/">Tammy</a>, she even suggest setting a timer. Check out her post, she has great ideas about limiting your computer use in general. You could even join me in a Facebook Diet, only logging on once a week.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Write a letter</b></u>. Pick up a pen and scratch out an <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2010/12/random-thursday-snail-mail.html">encouragement note for a friend</a> that is going through a rough patch. Or send someone a <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/2011/01/saying-thank-you-only-cost-44-cents.html">thank you note for just being awesome</a>. Put in writing how much you love someone. Trust me it will make their day.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Get up and do something.</b></u> Take a walk with a friend. Plan a dinner party. Call your Mom. Surprise your significant other and take them out to lunch. Be engaged with people and form a strong community around you. <br />
<br />
We are relational beings, let's live deeply with one another. Face-to-Face.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnKv83ngIY9Zex2HZhyphenhyphenI-ae-3ttGvS12GaEfUqK0TYWa9_8R8tPHcIZHv-agkjEfgZ-xhRY1BMjPjOladtbU6EFDv6oQm3PAj5x9N6TyopkCW7Z5zxRQu_AIGr5GH58WhutxJJSxFSRsK/s1600/jim-halpert-facebook.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnKv83ngIY9Zex2HZhyphenhyphenI-ae-3ttGvS12GaEfUqK0TYWa9_8R8tPHcIZHv-agkjEfgZ-xhRY1BMjPjOladtbU6EFDv6oQm3PAj5x9N6TyopkCW7Z5zxRQu_AIGr5GH58WhutxJJSxFSRsK/s320/jim-halpert-facebook.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333037649364178078.post-58410198515834075332011-02-24T07:36:00.001-05:002011-03-01T06:38:15.095-05:00The 3 A's of AwesomeNeil Pasricha takes the idea of appreciating the small things to another level. His <a href="http://1000awesomethings.com/">1000 Awesome Things blog</a>, which he started to help cope with grief, has turned into a best-selling book. And started an international optimism movement.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Here is an inspirational video on the 3 A's of Awesome.<br />
<br />
<object height="326" width="446"><param name="movie" value="http://video.ted.com/assets/player/swf/EmbedPlayer.swf"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><param name="bgColor" value="#ffffff"></param><param name="flashvars" value="vu=http://video.ted.com/talks/dynamic/NeilPasricha_2010X-medium.flv&su=http://images.ted.com/images/ted/tedindex/embed-posters/NeilPasricha-2010X.embed_thumbnail.jpg&vw=432&vh=240&ap=0&ti=1048&introDuration=15330&adDuration=4000&postAdDuration=830&adKeys=talk=neil_pasricha_the_3_a_s_of_awesome;year=2010;theme=what_makes_us_happy;theme=a_taste_of_tedx;theme=master_storytellers;event=TEDxToronto+2010;&preAdTag=tconf.ted/embed;tile=1;sz=512x288;" /><embed src="http://video.ted.com/assets/player/swf/EmbedPlayer.swf" pluginspace="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" bgColor="#ffffff" width="446" height="326" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" flashvars="vu=http://video.ted.com/talks/dynamic/NeilPasricha_2010X-medium.flv&su=http://images.ted.com/images/ted/tedindex/embed-posters/NeilPasricha-2010X.embed_thumbnail.jpg&vw=432&vh=240&ap=0&ti=1048&introDuration=15330&adDuration=4000&postAdDuration=830&adKeys=talk=neil_pasricha_the_3_a_s_of_awesome;year=2010;theme=what_makes_us_happy;theme=a_taste_of_tedx;theme=master_storytellers;event=TEDxToronto+2010;"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Let's take the time to notice the little things this week. <br />
<br />
To ask a question and find out the answer.<br />
<br />
To be amazed at all we have in our lives to experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLtyDBDJUL4EvRP36X8lmwbtElmxOxbTqtbpHDBhIuHk988droHYmfNTSvdfLVz9h3oS3b-KmMeM7kIoN06X_x0NyLfwYcXU1TEAM9qcNTOX3RPVzVxf3Pjpg1Qf9XKVrhA3DEVicAl6f/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks to <a href="http://southernsimplifying.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Better%20Half">my better half </a>for sharing this with me.<br />
<div><br />
</div>Simplifying in the Southhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17089125304319917845noreply@blogger.com0