Have you ever gotten lost.....on your way to work

Yes - heard read that right....because today, I got lost on my way to work!

This is downtown Dallas....and this is where I work! See the tall building right in the middle of the second picture....the one with the rounded domes at the top....that's my building.

Literally, the only time I drive in downtown is to get in and out of my parking garage...its only 2 streets over from my exit on the highway.

Well today there are a ton of traffic on the highway, so I decided I would get off, and just navigate my way to downtown via the side streets! Great plan! Well I navigated my way into downtown just fine thank you - I even had my building in sight. But somehow, I got into downtown on the southwest side, and I needed to be on the northeast side...so I just decided to turn on a few streets that I thought would lead me that way...I WAS WRONG! I quickly learned that there are too many streets in downtown Dallas...and they all are either one-way, or they veer off in the opposite direction of where I want to go. I almost even went the wrong way on a one-way street...it was terrible...all the while having my building in sight! So yes, I was LATE to work this morning all because I got lost on my way to work!

Moral of the story...just stay on the highway...unless you know where you're going!

Greatness...

Today, from MLIA...

Today, my mom and I were shopping at Marshall's when she called me stupid. I said,"Your mom's stupid!" She responded,"YOUR mom's stupid!" I just smiled and said,"I know." Win. MLIA.

Anointed, Transformed, and Redeemed

The past few months, I have been involved in a Bible Study on Anointed, Transformed and Redeemed. This amazing study is on the life, the anointing, the sin, and the greatness of David, a man after God's own heart.

Toward the beginning of the study, one of the days of homework, the question was asked what journey we were on that we never thought we would have to travel. It was that night that I finally opened up to these ladies about our struggle to have a baby, because you see, this is a road that I never thought I would travel. Last night was our final session and we talked about the greatest impact that the study had had on our lives. And what I was able to share is simply this:

David was anointed by God at a young age - there were roads that he had to travel in order to become the great king that God ordained him to be. He sinned - he stumbled - he failed - but God was always faithful and His plan WAS perfect.

I think this had such an impact on me simply because I have gotten to the point where I remind myself daily that His plan is perfect...his timing is not my own.

I was emailing with Ashley the other day - she is the sister-in-law of a dear friend who has also gone through the battle of infertility, but now has two precious little boys. And I was explaining to Ashley in my email that the longer this battle goes on, the more and more frequent the "bad" days seems to come. At first, I would only get emotional and break down maybe once every 3-4 months...but now it almost seems as if its one every week. So I was worried that I was being ridiculous...but she assured me I wasn't...I was simply being a woman. I am to the point where I fully trust God's plan, but I just pray that he could make my life a movie and give me just a glimpse of the future...just let me push the fast-forward button so that I know what is to come and I can look forward to that day.

You see, in the past few months, I have struggled with wondering if my problems with infertility were punishment for past sins - I have been battling Satan on a daily basis with one. But then I remember David - he waited so long to king and all roads traveled to get to that point were so important. He sinned too! So maybe I am on this road for a reason far greater than I realize. Maybe God is opening door that I don't even know about...maybe its for a greater purpose.

Then today, I was reading Caroline's blog. I had the joy of going to DBU and actually having a few classes with Caroline and I must tell you that I have never met a young woman as true and faithful to the Lord than Caroline Hughes. Well today, she posted a video and it was of herself sharing some of the things that she had recently learned and by the end of the video I was in tears. You see, Caroline made one statement that struck my heart with such conviction - "What if my loss is all for glory's gain?" And this statement had me on my knees - and yes, while I was at work! But on my knees because she made me ask myself - if I could never be a mother but was chosen for something else, would I be ok with that? Would I be ok if God made me barren but gained glory from it?

If you have a moment, go watch Caroline's video here. I hope that your heart is spoken to just like mine was. What if your loss was glory's gain? Would you be okay with it?

And just for the record, I have an amazing husband who lets me have all the meltdowns I need to - who hold me and comforts me and lovingly reminds me that God's plan is better than ours. So my prayer today is simply that I will be still and wait on the Lord - I pray that He gains all the glory in whatever plan he has for me, for Brant, and our family.

ACMA's

So did you watch the American Country Music Awards last night? Well I didn't but I do love me some good ole' country music...and one of my favorite parts of award shows are the outfits. These thumbnail pics aren't the best, so click on the picture for a better view.

I must say that I love that fact that Carrie Underwood is 1) an amazing and talented artist, but 2) is a great dresser! I thought she looked gorgeous in this dress!!!

Then these guys - well they're just one of my favorite groups and I love the fact that they rock the red carpet!

And what did you think about Taylor's dress???

I love me some Sugarland, but I wasn't loving the HUGE pendant around Jennifer Nettles neck. What did you think?

And Faith, you have such a great figure...I think you could have done much better on the dress pick. This just seemed a bit...sloppy.

And what in the world was Gretchen Wilson wearing?

Who was your favorite artist of the night?????

The Hats

So, this weekend, I officially learned the difference in the "Aunt" hat that I constantly (and very proudly) wear, and the "Mom" hat that I cautiously just wore am wearing at least until tonight at 11 pm! You see, Sister and Michael have been on a lovely vacation for the past week, so I had the 4 kiddos this weekend. It's funny how different I was knowing that I was going to wake them up, feed them, bathe them, put them to bed...and everything in between.

On Saturday, I went to a baby shower for my dear friend Lindsey. Right before I left, Kristy asked me if I wanted to take a cupcake for each of the kids. The aunt in me wanted to grab the cupcakes and make the day for 4 smiling faces...the mom in me shouted "4 sugar rushes - absolutely not!" However, I did let them eat ice cream at 7:30 last night when bedtime is at 8!

But we have survived and actually had a great time doing so! Last night, Kate, Connor, Ethan and I had a dance party and literally ran around the house like crazy people! Mason and I rocked out to Guitar Hero on Saturday, then he got to kill his Uncle B in Halo and Call of Duty on Sunday! Although I am exhausted from getting up to get 4 kids ready and out the door for school, my heart has been so blessed being surrounded by the laughter for 4 happy babes. If nothing else, this weekend confirmed one thing: I am so ready to be a mom!

MILA Quote of the Day

Today's MILA (My Life is Average) great quote(s) of the day:

"I work at a laser tag center. Today I saw a girl shoot herself in the mirror. MLIA "

"Today at school, I was asked if I was asian. Being Japanese, naturally I said 'yes.' Immediately, someone behind me called out "Liar! You told me that you were Japanese! You can't be both!" It took me, and 2 other students and a teacher to convince her that Japan was a part of Asia. I go to a public school... MLIA "

"Today, I asked my 4 year old cousin what he wanted to be when he grew up. A fireman? A doctor? A police man? Nope. "Sexy". MLIA "

"My friend told me a story about her cousin who worked in an ER. She saw a name on the list spelled La-a. Confused by this she tryed sayind "Laa aa" or "Laya" but no one answered. Finally a woman exclaimed "Oh you mean me!" turns out the dash isnt silent. Her name is pronounced Ladasha. MLIA. "

These crack me up!!!!!

Makeover

Great Grabbie Designs just had a makeover....go check it out!

New Recipes!

Well, here on Good Friday, I woke up with a horrible headache, so I called in sick today! So what better use of my time, than to update with some of the new recipes I've tried out! Right now, I am doing Weight Watchers with several of the ladies in my office. Only 2 weeks in and I have lost 4.8lbs! So, I have included the nutrition facts, as well as the Weight Watchers points, for each recipe.

Spicy Chicken Fried Rice
(From Cooking Light, March 2010 ed.)

This was a great recipe that is perfect for left over vegetables or rice! I have some steamed broccoli and carrots left over from a few days ago, so I was able to just throw them in! I also added some fresh mushrooms. Just an FYI - the recipe calls for your rice and chicken to be cooked - so plan accordingly.

First, in a small bowl, combine:
1/4 cup of less-sodium soy sauce
1 TBSP dark brown sugar
1 TBSP dark sesame oil (I just used EVOO)
3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (I used just a bit more)

Then, in a wok or large skillet, heat 2 TBSP of EVOO. Then add:
2 cups diced bell pepper (I used red and yellow)
1 Diced small onion
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onion.
Stir-fry for about 3 minutes, or until tender. Then add:
2 TBSP minced, peeled ginger
2 large garlic cloves, minced (I just used 1 TBSP minced garlic).
Stir-fry for about 1 minute. Then add:
4 cups cooked brown rice
1 lb of diced, cooked chicken
1 (8 oz.) can of water chestnuts, drained.
Stir-fry for about 5 minutes.
Add soy sauce mixture and cook for 2 more minutes, tossing gently to coat.

Note: The original recipe calls for 1/3 cup chopped dry-roasted peanuts as a topping. Because of Weight Watchers, I decided to forgo the peanuts. So, below are the nutrition facts WITH peanuts:

Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 482; Fat: 14g; Protein: 26.3g; Carb. 61.8g; Fiber 6.9g
WW points: 9pts per serving
(Again, if you deduct the peanuts, your only having 8 WW points)


Skillet Fish in Caper Sauce
(from Southern Living: Easy Weeknight Favorites Cookbook)

This was DELICIOUS and easy!!!!!
Cook 1 medium onion, chopped in a large skillet for about 5 minutes, or until tender.
Add 2 (14.oz) Cans for Italian stewed tomatoes, undrained!
Add 2 TBSP chopped capers; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Stir thoroughly; remove from skillet and set to the side.
Add fish fillets (I did 4 fillets) to skillet - top with mixture. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until fish flakes easily. Serve with spatula so fish won't tear.

Nutrition Facts:
Cal. 187; Fat 4.6g; Carbs 14.2g; Protein 23g; Fiber 3.2g; Sugar 9.8g
WW points: 4 points per serving


Salmon Croquettes
(from Cooking Light: January 2010 ed. - click here)

Brant and I both LOVED these - Brant has actually requested that I make them again!!!

Original Recipe:
In a large bowl, combine the following:
2 TBSP (organic or light) mayonnaise
1 TSBP fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp crushed red pepper
2 (6 oz.) packages of skinless, boneless pink salmon
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
Stir ingredients well, then shape into small, round patties.

Heat 1 TBSP oil in skillet over medium heat. Add patties; cook 5 minutes on each side, or until brown.

For the sauce, combine:
4 TBSP mayonnaise
3 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 TBSP fresh parsley
1 tsp chopped capers
1/2 tsp minced garlic
1/8 tsp salt

Nutrition Facts:
Cal. 305; Fat 19.3g; Protein 18.8g; Carb 12.6g; Fiber 1g; WW points - 8
(serving size is 2, 3oz patties)

NOTE: To lower the weight watchers point, I substituted the large egg and instead, used 2 egg whites. I also did not cook them in oil, but simply used Pam to coat the skillet. This reduces the points to approximately 7 points.

Hope you enjoy!!!!

New Blog Designs

I know - I have been a really bad blogger and I never uploaded new recipes when I promised I would. But I have been busy!!!!!!

On March 21st, I hosted (yes I - no one else) a bridal shower for my dear friend Melissa. But since all the guests live almost an hour north of me, my SIL was generous enough to allow me to host it at her home in Plano. Although it was fabulous to have it there, it was a pain getting everything packed up! I had to get the food, the flowers, the drinks, the serving pieces, the plates, napkins, the gift...you name it - I had to pack it!

Then last weekend we had a Sunday School garage sale to benefit the Mansfield Young Life summer camp! Praise the Lord we made our goal of $2000 to help send kids to camp. After the garage sale, Ethan came to play at Grabbie's house while everyone else was at the school for Spring Fling.

Life is just simply crazy right now with baseball, but there is an end in sight...and Monday is opening day of the Texas Rangers and it is tradition that we go....all 100 or so of us!!!! Literally, tickets were bought in September for this day - it is one of those events that people plan their schedules around. We will literally start tailgating by 10 am! This is a great day filled with friends and fellowship! Last year was the first year that I had not been since Brant and I started dating (its his tradition) because I had to work...but this year I made SURE I had the day off! I am really looking forward to it!

But, I leave you with a few new designs I have completed recently! Thanks to everyone who took advantage of the Spring Break Special! I had a great time designing for you!!!!