Christmas

This will be my first Christmas in my apartment. I'd like to get a small Christmas tree and a Christmas wreath.

More than anything, I'd can't wait to pass this class so I can get into the Christmas spirit.

So far, I have only purchased one Christmas present and that was over summer. So, I've got a long way to go. This year, I'm on a tighter budget. Boo! I guess, it will make me more creative. :)

I've always said I love a simple Christmas. I hate holidays being overdone. I love the simplicity of doing enough to make it special, but still be able to enjoy it. Sometimes all the plans and hype take the focus away from what Christmas is all about. Christmas is about God who sent His Son, Jesus to save us from our sin. Without this great gift, we could never hope to go to heaven, but God made a way for us through Jesus. Amen!

What I'm Thankful For

I literally could spend hours listing all my blessing, because they are many. I'll try to keep this short and sweet.
I'm thankful for:

my parents; I haven't always appreciated them, but God has given me many circumstances that have helped me realize how blessed I am to have them in my life. When my dad had a TIA (pre-stroke), I realized just how much of a hole would be missing in my life without him. Whatever sense of humor I have; I got it from him. Any car maintenance, moving, or support I need he's always there, ready to lend a hand. His cancer bout several years ago brought us all much closer. Though he'll never be quite the same from the surgery, I'm just happy he's still here. My mom is the calm, steady rock in our family. Her lung disease diagnosis last year rocked our world. Despite the pain and lack of energy, she was still positive. What a blessing. We're all living with a new normal, but the point is that we're still living. Just over five years ago, I faced an trying nine months of doctors doing many test but not knowing what was wrong with me. Between the pain and steriods I didn't feel like myself. My parents had to help me with everything; carrying my groceries, opening things for me, and they drove me to every out-of-town doctors appointment and there were many. Rheumatoid arthritis has been a difficult journey, but I'm thankful for the company God has given me along the way. I'm so blessed that I get to see my parents at least once a week. I love going home!

my grandma; she's a strong woman. When I feel too old to do something, I remember that in her mid-30s with 6 kids, she put herself through nursing school to become an LPN and make a better life for her family. Despite being on a fixed-income, she is always generous with whatever she has. It doesn't matter what time you come to her house she always offers you food and drink; you never leave hungry. She's also pretty wise; always reminding me to "take it one day at a time" and to pray and ask the Lord for help.

both sides of my family which are really close. I know, if I ever needed anything they'd be right there ready to help. Over the years, I've realized not all families are like this.

our fur faces, Max and Riley. They're always happy to see me when I come home, but then again, they're always pretty happy. Reminds me to enjoy the simple things like the sunshine, time together with friends or family, fresh air, a treat, or a nap. ;)

my job; through it I get to impart on students what I'm passionate about: workforce development/professional development. I've also made great friends through my job. In just over a year, I've had experiences I never would've dreamed of: grad school, being in a commercial, and being a K-State Track and Field official. I'm definitely blessed to be at K-State.

friends. Though my friends are ever-cycling out of town, I'm thankful for the time I've had with each of them. I appreciate their perspectives and companionship on this journey through life.

In no way whatsoever, is this a complete list of everything I'm thankful for; like stars in the sky, my blessings are innumberable.

Catching Fire

Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE the Hunger Games series! I read the books for the first time summer of 2012. After reading the books, I watched the first movie; so good! Unlike most book to movie translations, they're pretty true to the book; which I appreciate. The main characters seem like people I'd like to know.

This summer, I re-read the books in preparation for the second movie coming out. This last weekend, I was excited to see, Catching Fire! I even wore my Hunger Games necklace. :) It's everything I could've hoped for in the movie and more. It brings the book and characters to life. I laughed, teared up, and screamed (those monkeys are terrifying; I couldn't help it). I really love the costumes, who they cast for most of the characters, and their set (the locations look just how I imagined them). When I read the books for the first time, I actually imagined the dad from Juno as President Snow.
Don't laugh, but I envision this lady as President Coin. :) I can't wait for the next two movies and I can't wait to buy Catching Fire!

Travel

Growing up, we never traveled much. We'd travel to see family or to tourist destinations in the off season. In high school, my senior class and I were the first class ever to plan a senior trip out of state. We worked together to raise money and we did. We went to Daytona Beach, Florida. We went to Orlando to Universal Studios. We stayed on the beach. It was my first time seeing the ocean and I couldn't get enough. Actually, none of us could get enough; so much so that we all got fried. The sunburns were of epic proportions, but it's a trip I'll never forget. I built my first and only sandcastle. My classmates laughed, because at the airport a little kid had the same sandcastle making set I got at Walgreens. :) The trip there was only my second time on an airplane. Since then, I can't even tell you how many times I've flown.

In college, I traveled to Cali for spring break one year. Spent time in Monterey, Carmel and Big Sur. Big Sur was gorgeous! I love the ocean, though it was too cold to get in. Water came from Alaska and it was quite chilly. I also, took a trip to Cancun my senior year. What a blast! We stayed at an all-inclusive resort. I went snorkeling for the first time. Everything was so beautiful! In college, I interned at a resort in Lake of the Ozark, Missouri. What a fun place in the summer. I spent the whole summer on the lake or working with a lake view and I was spoiled by it. Now, every summer I yearn for the lake. I was fortunate enough to be able to return there every summer after until this year. It's always on my summer list.

Since then, I traveled a lot in my last job (Seattle twice, El Paso, San Antonio twice, Fort Hood/Austin twice, Fort Bragg/Raleigh, Fort Benning/Atlanta. It was nice, but then it got a little old, though I don't think I'd trade it for anything.

A year and a half ago, I went to Italy and it was wonderful. I remember smiling the whole time, soaking everything in, and taking pictures of literally everything, because I didn't want to forget one thing about that once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Those who know me well, know that I'm always planning a trip somewhere; it gives me something to look forward to. So right now, I've given up on a spring break trip since I'm saving up for Ireland. I'd love to go to the Lake of the Ozarks again, but we'll see. A friend of mine is moving back to Hawaii soon, so I'll always have a place ot stay on the Big Island and Hawaii just so happens to be high up on my travel list. ;)

Goodbyes

At some point in our lives we all have to say goodbye. Sometimes, it's because someone is moving far away. Growing up in a college and military town, I've said it a million times and yet it never gets easier. Sometimes, I think I should make more friends that are going to stay put, to save myself the pain, but that thought never lasts long.

I'm that girl that hates change despite how good it will be. I've heard the spiel of promises to stay in touch, but it's not the same as having them in the same town. Despite, the promises to stay in touch, it takes two peopple to make a long-distance friendship work.

So, I had to say it again, today to someone I've gotten to know over the last 2.5 years. We've had many adventures together, from nights out on the town to tackling her mountain of laundry post-deployment. She taught me to use chopsticks and make up brushes. I enjoyed our nights cooking breakfast food. It hasn't quite hit me that soon she'll be literally halfway across the world, but it helps to know she's in love and ready for a new chapter. We promised to stay in touch and I hope we do.

I Hate...

I hate cold weather, especially on days like today. I get off work, it's been raining and sleeting. My car doors won't open. I set my stuff down and start to work to open any door. Fifteen minutes later, I finally get a door open, but it's not my driver side door, it's my back driver side door. I happen to be wearing a skirt...*sigh. I climb to the front turn on heat and my defrost, all while trying not to scare any passerbys. I grab my de-icer and ice scraper. I spray away and try to yank a door open. After 15 minutes and a warm car, my driver door opens. Now to finish scraping my passenger side windows which are covered in thicker ice. I'm not making much headway, so I use the tip of my ice scraper as a pick. Now my interior lights will not go off because I must've gotten one of my passenger side doors slightly afar, but definitely not open. Fifteen minutes later, I'm freezing and may have bruised my hips, but I finally got it shut. So, all this means I've decided to either retire in Texas or just go there for the winter. This also means I skipped my workout. Finally, after warming my hands around a three-wick candle, turning up the heat and eating soup (yes, soup),I'm warmer.

Recipe #4: Pan-Fried Chicken Tacos

So, I'm Mexican, but I only made pan-fried tacos for the first time last month. Why haven't I made them before, they're so easy!

I made them again, today. So, I had some chicken I'd cooked and I added it to a pan with some taco seasoning and a little water. Next, I added the seasoned meat to tortillas and pan-fried them. We added avocado, raw cabbaage, red onion, cheese, and salsa. So good!

Needless to say, my friend loved them! :)

Chicken Salad Update:
Shocking news! My grandma LOVED my chicken salad recipe I made last weekend. She normally isn't a huge fan of my cooking, so this is big news! She liked it so much she had two helpings and asked if I had more at home. She's one of the very best cooks I know, so this is truly high praise and I'm one happy girl. :)

I made some for my parents. My mom loved it and asked for my recipe. She's an amazing cook too.

I shared some with a friend who also asked for my recipe.

You know you've done something right when people ask for your recipe. :)

Has anyone tried any of the recipes I've shared?

Pinterest Experiment #3

Recipe #3: Avocado-Bacon Breakfast Wrap

So, I made this about nine months ago and loved it, but I decided to add a little bit of baked potato. Adding the baked potato made it a little drier, so I added more of my grandma's home-made hot sauce. Such a good breakfast!

Here's how mine turned out:

I also tried out some "Fire Hydrant In and Outs." After doing a nice, little run, elliptical, and the rowing machine (for the first time ever) these felt really good. A day later, I can feel the pain!!!

Pinterest Experiments #1 and 2: Part One

I'm actually really looking forward to trying some new things. Lately, I feel like I eat the same things all the time because it's easy and I've run out of ideas. My goal for my recipes is to use all the items I purchase; I am on a budget anyway. :) I should say that most of the Pinterest recipes I've tried in the past haven't turned out very well, but I'm willing to try again. I must be a glutton for punishment. :)

I'm also looking forward to trying something pretty with my nails!

Recipe #1: Chicken Salad Sandwiches



So, I changed up the recipe. I'm not a huge fan of grapes, so I used dried cranberries. I had whole almonds instead of slivers, so I used my food processor. I also used mayo instead of Miracle Whip, which I HATE!

The garlic powder was genius. I accidentally used garlic salt AND salt, so I just added more of everything else to even it out. The garlic was a tasty touch. I'm definitely making this again!

Recipe #2: Honey Lime Shrimp



So, I should've added more honey. Despite marinating about an hour as suggested, the shrimp weren't all that flavorful. Maybe I should've marinated it overnight.

Well, these two recipes made for an interesting dinner combo tonight. :)

Next on the menu, several cabbage recipes.

Follow me on Pinterest: Myranda Kimble's Pinterest

I'm Completely In Love With This Song

You know those songs that remind you what you need to hear and that encourage your heart? For me, that is One Sonic Society's Never Once. It's so powerful and helps me find strength in God and His promises.



Lyrics: One Sonic Society
from the album Never Once (Single)

Standing on this mountain top
Looking just how far we've come
Knowing that for every step
You were with us
Kneeling on this battleground
Seeing just how much You've done
Knowing every victory
Was Your power in us

Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Yes, our hearts can say

Never once did we ever walk alone (Favorite 2 lines)
Never once did You leave us on our own
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful

Standing on this mountain top
Looking just how far we've come
Knowing that for every step
You were with us

Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Yes, our hearts can say

Never once did we ever walk alone
Never once did You leave us on our own
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Every step we are breathing in Your grace
Evermore we'll be breathing out Your praise
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
It's true, You are faithful, God You are faithful

Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Never once did we ever walk alone
Carried by Your constant grace
Held within Your perfect peace
Never once, no, we never walk alone

We know, You are faithful, God, You are faithful


Publishing: © 2011 Sony/ATV Timber Publishing / West Main Music / Windsor Hill Music (SESAC) All rights on behalf of Sony/ATV Timber Publishing, West Main Music and Windsor Hill Music adm. by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC. / Thankyou Music (PRS) (adm. worldwide at EMICMGPublishing.com excluding Europe which is adm. by Kingswaysongs) / worshiptogether.com Songs /sixsteps Music / Said And Done Music (ASCAP) (adm. at EMICMGPublishing.com) / Chrysalis Music (ASCAP). All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Writer(s): Jason Ingram, Matt Redman, Tim Wanstall

Trying Something New

In addition, to my new endeavor to go to bed early. I've decided to try out something new from Pinterest every week. Anyone brave enough to go through this journey with me? I'll be chronicling my journey right here, complete with pictures. I'll try out work out suggestions, make up, hair, style, nail ideas, recipes, other tips, etc. First post coming next weekend. Anyone excited? I sure am!:)

Reading

When I was little and learned to read, it was like everything turned from black and white to color; it was literally a whole new world for me. It forever changed my world. As a child, I'd get lost in books, imagining everything I read. Still to this day, I can get totally engrossed in a book. I almost felt like I needed a therapy group while reading the Hunger Games series; it felt so real. I wanted to call people and voice my deep worry for Peeta and Katniss. Down with the Capitol! I still really want a Mockingjay pin and I really would wear it. My addiction with Hunger Games is so bad that I cried twice while watching the first movie; once because the reaping scene was so emotional and once because I was finally seeing the movie and so happy/overwhelming. Nerdy, I know. :)

I love when a book overtakes my life! I'm currently reading, Born to Run; I can't put it down! The author much like myself wanted so much to love running that he kept trying, but really hated it and started getting injuries due to running. So what does he do? He keeps going to the doctor and they pretty much tell him to not run anymore. Much like me, he's really stubborn. So, he goes to Mexico in search of the Tamahumara tribe who can run for days, through impossible terrain. He wants to run like them.So, he searches for them, but they're hard to track. He finds them and well, that's about as far as I've gotten in two or three night of reading.

I've already finished a guidebook on Europe. That Rick Steves knows what he's talking about. I'm close to picking cities and setting an itinerary for my trip to Ireland; exciting!

Next, I'll start the second book in the Divergent series and then start an Ireland guidebook. The Divergent series is really addictive too. Very intense like Hunger Games, but not quite as good.

Black Friday

Black Friday, key word FRIDAY! Christmas shopping has gotten out of control. Stores should not be open on Thanksgiving! I'm especially saddened that K-Mart has chosen to be open all of Thanksgiving Day into Black Friday. Their poor workers won't get any rest or time with their families. People should be able to spend that day with their family, not dealing with shoppers. It's one day where we focus on what we're thankful for, not a day to stress over the list of people we need to buy presents for. The commercialism of this time of year bothers me. Anyone else feel the same?

Movies

I've been watching more movies recently.
I totally loved 42, as in liked it so much I may buy it and I RARELY buy movies. It made me realize to some degree how good the good ol' days were, in terms of morality. In the movie, the manager of team got fired for having an affair. I wish good morals were praised in society now. Am I the only one?
I never saw the original Red Dawn, but the newer one with Chris Hemsworth was really good, but then again I am a Rocky and Rambo fan. I blame my love of those movies on my dad; we had to bond over something. :)
The movie, Snitch was really good, but then again, I can't think of many movies by the Rock that I didn't like.

Christmas List

My rather random Christmas list:

-Bright yellow potholders (I only have a right-handed Santa potholder that was just given to me).

-A silver toaster. I'd like to toast my bread.

-Clarks Purity Rose. I've dreamed up lots if outfits I could wear them with.

-Popsicle holders; I blame Pinterest.

-An automatic car starter; I miss my garage and I live in Kansas. Last winter:

-Cupcake pans; I also blame Pinterest for this.

-Tall brown boots

-Calf-length black or gray socks; medium thickness

Yes, I know it's very early to have my list ready, but in all honestly it's been ready for a couple weeks. I'm sure I'll be adding to my list. :)

What's on your Christmas list?




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Music I'm liking

Several commercials on TV keep playing So Groovy with Jocelyn Alice and The Right Stars: catchy stuff!
I've also rediscovered The Story by Brandy Carlisle. I hate the music video for it, so here's just the song.