Day 25: The reason you believe you’re still alive today.
I often wonder the reason. I have heard people say it's because they have some big thing planned for their life, or because they haven't lived a full life...
I'm really not sure. But if I had to say there was a reason it would be my soul mate. My love. I stayed alive long enough to meet him, and I hope to share a long life with him. I know how much he needed a strong, resilient, loving woman to be a Mother to his son. He needed a partner that understood and encouraged him, and he needed a soul that matched his to share his life and great love with.
I want to be that couple who's love is so deep they pass into the next within hours of each other. I want to see our children grow up into wonderful people full of life, love and spirit.
Yes, I also want to have my dream of a novel published, read and loved...but as long as my family knows they meant more to me than any pipe dream, I feel like my life is worthy and well lived.
Day 24: Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)
Ok. This is all about being true. And even though I grew up in the age of tape cassettes and CDs I wasn't one to make playlists. I have one that I remember making and it was for myself. It was my nighttime music.
Not for anyone else, but for myself. So I'm not really sure if I should go ahead and make one, or just talk about the one I made for myself.
Oh wait. I take that back. I did make our lil guy Shi one when Jon and I first started dating...it was a bunch of soothing nightimey music to help him relax at bedtime. :)
So, I've made a couple.
I'll start one for the Hubs.
1: Landon Pigg: Falling in Love in a Coffee Shop ~We met at our local favorite Coffee Shop, and so naturally this song is one of "Our Songs"
2. Moldy Peaches: Anyone Else But You ~Because you are my full time best friend, and I don't see what anyone can see in anyone else but you, my love.
3. Elton John: Your Song ~You request this at our favorite Piano Bar, and anytime else it is romantic. Life is so wonderful while you're in the world...
4. Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros: Home ~Because I've never loved no one more than, nothing is sweeter than, nothing pleases me more than, I've been everywhere with, and Home is when I'm alone with; YOU.
5. Dave Matthews Band: Crash ~The song is just hot and so are you.
6. Colbie Caillat: Bubbly
~You make me feel this way.
7. Michael Buble: Haven't Met You Yet
~I remember watching this video right when we met, and thinking: How many times were we just an aisle in the grocery store or a room in the coffee shop away, while living a block away from each other!?
8. Adele: Someone Like You
~Because I know all the girls that lost you are wishing they just might be lucky to find someone like you. But I got you. Lucky me! <3 <3 <3
9. Stevie Wonder: You Are the Apple of my Eye ~I think of my parents every time I hear this song, and I am reminded of how strong our love is because of those before us that showed us the way. Forever you'll stay in my soul.
10. Ellie Golding: Your Song
~We heard her version on that night. Yeah, you remember. <3
So that's my playlist....for my love. I liked this challenge. Reminders of our love. Those are always good. I am sure he can think of more. ^_^ Sorry if I forgot a few that were more meaningful.
Just a few more days! I think I can, I think I can!
Day 23: Something you wish you had done in your life.
Getting towards the end of this challenge...it has been fun, but I really am missing posting some recipes and things I've found. I think next time I blog a challenge it needs to be more along the lines of things I would normally do.. but OK. Here I go!
When someone is talking about something they wish they had done in their life, it reminds me of an older person talking to a young'un reminiscing and encouraging the young person to be sure and follow their dreams. So let's get this straight: I'm not an old person, and I know I have lived quite suitably for a person my age and seen and have done a lot. I am not complaining about what I wish I've done and in any way remorseful of my choices or decisions. They have put me in a wonderful place and I would not want to be anywhere else right now. I love my life.
So I'm not wishing for a different place, or a different experience, no. That would mean I would not be sitting here in my favorite coffee shop with the love of my life and maybe more. It would mean I wouldn't have a sweet child that, while the pains of birth were not my own to know yet, but the joys and challenges of parenting are a wonderful experience I've been given the pleasure of knowing.
Something I do wish I had done...I've lived in another country, I've learned another language and have knowledge of a couple more. I've had good relationships and bad ones. I've had family issues to work through, and I've had the typical experiences I think make us human. Joys and fears, loves and losses, heartache and exuberance, sorrow and lust...I've worked hard and hardly at all. I've studied to ace an exam and learned the perils of failing. I've picked myself up from the depths of despair and learned to create an endless light in my life to keep me going. Romance, longing, travel, hermititude, partying....gosh. The more I think about it the more experienced I feel. So if I were to be at the end of my life and look back on the whole of my experiences...I would feel pretty fulfilled. The one thing I wish I would have done is journal more.
I recently found a few journals from when I was a bit younger. I'm still young. I know that...but it was so interesting to see my thoughts from times when it is hard to remember the daily occurrences. Hearing me talk about my friends and my family, about what made me happy then and my hopes for the future. Seeing a different person in the books of my life altogether.
So that is my one thing I wish. I wish wholeheartedly that I had written more of my memories down. I have a few from when I was in Fourth grade, more from middle school and many from high school. But college, it was rare for me to make time to journal. Maybe I can find my old stuff from myspace and facebook and make some sort of journal from that. I wasn't always as positive as I am now. I wasn't always the optimist, nor the happy-go-lucky gal I feel I am now. But one thing that rings true in my current life experience is that I've always enjoyed writing, poetry and prose. And the other thing that is still true is I think no one is ever really going to read any of my stuff either. Haha. One of my first poems I found written in my 8th grader writing, scratched out, and written in my 9th grader handwriting "Yuk! No one wants to read this!"
haha...Oh old self...current self understands. And loves your honesty. Thanks for the *cough* encouragement. Tee hee.
Thanks for reading- I'd love to see if anyone else is willing to do, or has done this challenge. Leave me a message with your thoughts! <3
<3 <3 <3 Cassie Stone ~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
Day 22: Something You Wish You Hadn’t Done In Your Life
I like to say that everything happens for a reason, and if something terrible does happen there is something to be learned from it. BUT... IF I had a wish and that wish was to take something back in my life I think it would be a moment of weakness on my part.
I had just broken up with my boyfriend of twoish years (he was a big lying, manipulative, controlling, cheating....I should have broken it off at the lying part...ti name a few of his attributes) Well I had just broken it off, and he ended up convincing me to go on one last little trip with him since we had it planned already. It was just for a day and I figured I could at least flirt with some hotties there. I know. Bad.
Well, against my better judgement I went. With a few ground rules. We weren't supposed to hang out with his friends (since they knew he was a scummy guy and helped cover his lies) we weren't there as b/f & g/f, and if we did see any of his friends we were supposed to say hi and move on. Well, of course...we ran into some of his friends and ended up hanging out with them. I was spitting mad, and made him take me home.
As we were leaving this big car show- an idiot driver tried to pull a u-turn in front of us and we tboned his big dual-lie truck going 50 miles an hour.
I ended up with a terrible concussion, a broken nose and many bruised bones (the doctor couldn't believe I didn't have more broken bones)
I missed so much work and it affected my classes quite a bit. I still wish I could take that day back. For months if I over did it I would have a nose bleed and I had such terribly swelling and bruising and cuts that I looked like a Klingon Clown with Down-syndrome for quite a while. Not to mention I couldn't wear a shirt or sweater that had to be pulled over my head for 6 or 7 months unless I wanted a nosebleed.
Of course the one thing I learned from that experience is that anybody who tells you and YES I QUOTE: "Your face is broken, not your arms and legs" in response to you asking for help with some laundry because you are in so much pain you can't even cry or sit up in bed without hyperventilating and having blood spewing grotesquely from your nose...is not somebody you want to waste your time and energy on.
Of course I did get a nice study abroad experience from the settlement from the jerk that hit us. The nice officer/sheriff that was at the scene, and witnessed the whole thing wrote him quite a few hefty tickets that proved his guilt in the matter. Thank goodness. And that trip showed me there were plenty of nicer fish in the sea!
So yea. That is definitely a day/experience/thing I wish I hadn't done in my life. Maybe I should sum it up with that set-up that first introduced me to him. Ugh.
Day 21: (scenario) Your Best Friend Is In a Car Accident and You Two Got Into a Fight An Hour Before. What Do You Do?
Um...well. As long as they are not dead- I think everything would be ok.
I'm going to be honest here, (that is the point of this Challenge thing, right?) and say that I wish I had read all of the prompts before committing. LOL But anyway...
The drama-I was never really one to play into all that drama stuff. I get enough baby-momma drama and I never really understood people playing petty games at the hopes of making themselves feel better, or whatever other silly reason.
So if there was a fight, it must have been about something serious, but if it is a friend then nothing is more serious than their being okay in a situation like this. So I would get to their side as soon as humanly possible and apologize for whatever stupid thing we fought about and continue being the good friend I should be.
Simple enough.
I need to post a few recipes. I liked those posts better anyway. LOL Maybe I should start a cooking challenge....hmmmmmmm
Okay, well. Nighty nite!
<3 <3 <3 Cassie ~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
...mostly. How about this statement: Just about anything can be bad if abused. Alcohol can be bad if abused. Simple as that. But it has benefits too. Same with drugs. Some natural herbs should be used as the beneficial herbs they are. I remember recently having a nice talk with Grandad about how he used to be able to get a certain green herb from the drug store. Yes, as a drug-but it was used medicinally. The History of Cannabis is interesting, to say the least. I've also read there are many benefits from that particular herb. There must be if it is used in some forms of pharmaceutics-but those have side effects. And I really don't like taking any form of drug that has a side effect that can make a negative impact on my life. I had some extremely bad side effects from a prescription I was on a few years back, and I am quite leery of our medical fields. We workk ourselves sick, and then use that money to pay for medicine that keeps us sick? There is something wrong with that picture.
I choose life.
I think it is about education. Some people die from legal drugs, others from illegal. For the government I think it's all about the big dollar...but that's a different discussion. Too deep for now. But yeah...
Just something to think about...
Of course, I'm not about to do something that would get myself thrown in jail (or inflict bodily harm)...so I'll stick to my alcohol. Oh wait....but aren't bath salts legal? Now THAT is messed up. No thank you.
Yeah, I don't think the side effects are that cute.
Oh and I can't smoke anyway-my stupid asthma. So what was my point? Haha. I've never smoked a cigarette...and I don't ever plan to. I like being able to breathe.
Day 19 : What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?
It has been quite a long week and to get into either of these topics will take more effort than I have left in me. Our lil guy has been sick for a week now, and I am just worn out. So I will sum up my thought on politics with one image...
okay, maybe two....
Either way we're not going to get the outcome we want. Politicians have too much power and the game is old and drawn out. So I guess we just have to educate ourselves the best we can and choose the lesser of the evils.
I wish it was a more uplifting post for today, but there it is! Gonna go drink some water and get some sleep.
I know there are a lot of people who would side with me as well as many that would say my opinion is wrong.
This is my opinion, and I am not forcing it on anyone. I knew when I started this blog it was going to make a few people upset- but I cannot go through life worrying about how others feel about my thoughts and words.
So that is my disclaimer for that.
Now, with all that said...my views. They are simple as is most of what I believe. I believe we are all born to be loved. We all deserve happiness, light and love, and how we choose to create it in our own lives is our choice. Until someone's love life interferes with mine I have no say over what makes them happy. Nor do I believe should anyone else.
Now, we could go into the religious reasons, or the studies done about how homosexuality can be explained through natural selection....and the study with the rats....but that's not the issue. The issue I am being asked my opinion of is marriage.
All I know is if I loved someone and I couldn't be at their side when they were in the hospital or file taxes together or buy a home together and it be ours...it would be wrong. And I am really going to have to stop writing before I go and say something that offends someone...I really don't feel like getting into a debate over it. If you disagree, feel free to leave me a comment with a link to your views. But please don't attack mine.
I believe all you need is love, and love is all you need...and if you truly were living in love you wouldn't want to keep anyone else from sharing the joy.
Oh, and the farce about protecting Biblical Marriage...well...how many biblical heterosexual marriages end in divorce and separation? How many kids are raised with fighting parents that would be happier and would be able to give their children more stability on their own? Just a few thoughts that come to mind when I think of the place our society is in these days.
<3 <3 <3 Cassie Stone ~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
Day 17 : A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.
Oh hands down, Eckhart Tolle. I first read The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment it was quite an amazing experience. I already was heading down a better path in life, but his words gave me the reassurance that these thoughts I was feeling were not just thoughts, but reality.
Even tonight as I think of circumstances out of my control and try to find new ways to release the worry and find trust in myself. I am only one soul, one person doing my best. As long as I can look at myself in the mirror and know I am doing more than my best, that I am doing all that I can to take care of my family and to be sure their needs are well met, then I know, in the end, all will be well.
One quote in particular resonates in my mind always
“The primary cause of unhappiness is never the situation but thought about it. Be aware of the thoughts you are thinking. Separate them from the situation, which is always neutral. It is as it is.”
By understanding a situation and separating my thoughts from the situation I find peace, and create the happiness with in. If you give power to that which you cannot control, then misery may take over, but by stepping out of darkness and into the light, joy and peace thrive.
From inside the maze it might be hard to see the path, but it can be easy to get through!
So this book, and author changed my perspective on happiness. It isn't a destination, but rather the journey. My journey is one of love and light, I hope you, too can find the power of now and join in on this wonderful journey!
<3 <3 <3 Cassie Stone ~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
Day 16: Someone or something you definitely could live without.
Well, let's see. Something I could definitely live without. Or someone....goodness. I didn't realize how hard these would be to think of.
Okay, something I could live without is fast food. If every fast food restaurant closed down today, even though today only has about 15 minutes left in it. I would be so very happy.
In High School it was cool to go grab a bite to eat with my friends, so that was really the only reason I ever went to fast food places then. But if I was left to my own devices I would be happy not going to them. Sure they are easy and convenient, but man. The way I feel after I eat some big greasy burger....just isn't worth it to me.
In college I hated the food at the cafeterias. I mean hated. Yes, loathed and despised. I actually got so sick because I wasn't eating enough food for my active lifestyle. I played lacrosse and worked and ran a few times a week...and a few greens and cereal just wasn't cutting it. Everything there was like walking through a fast food place. I was able to see a nutritionist on campus and prove that I could feed myself well enough to be exempt from the meal plan and that was the best thing that ever happened! I started cooking in the basement and baking and really that's when my love of food started. All because I didn't want to eat the crap that they served in the cafeterias that, to me, was just as bad as a fast food joint.
So if you are craving some fried chicken, or a nice juicy burger-come on over. I love making chicken and gravy....and Jon can grill a mean burger. Oh, and my fries...much better than those other places. And uh-there was a time when the gals at the burger joint I worked at would sing" Her milkshakes bring all the boys to the yard"
And they did. Have you ever had my Double Chocolate Blueberry Malted Peanut Butter Shake? No? I'm sorry. It is sooooooo good. Believe it or not, but this is the thirty days of truths challenge. And that is definitely the truth.
Ok, well....one minute to midnight. Gotta roll on to bed!
<3 <3 <3 Cassie Stone ~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
Day 15: Something or someone you couldn't live without because you've tried living without it
A couple years ago I might say my phone, but after working a few jobs where employers always think they should be able to get a hold of you even when you are off the clock I started to loathe having a cell phone.
I still rarely remember to take it with me-it just isn't quite the important thing it used to be, so that wouldn't be it...I would say my Hubby, but I've never tried living without him, unless you count the time before we met, and well frankly, I don't think that time counts.
But something I couldn't live without...I would have to say my sight. And yes, I've had to live without it before.
That terrible year I was talking about on Day 13...I forgot to mention I got a staph infection in my eye from the hospital while my grandfather was there. I woke up one day and couldn't see. My left eye was milky white and my Mom wigged out. I had to have these special drops in my eyes every 30 minutes for 48 hours, then every hour for 24 hours and every 2 hours until the bottle was gone. Even in the middle of the night. And I HAD to make sure I didn't miss one dose or I would have been very lucky to get my vision back.
That was the worst thing ever. I couldn't read or write without my vision....so many things I take for granted every day. I know there are many who live without their vision, but if I lost any of my senses I would be in a different realm, and I would sorely miss it.
Vision being number one, probably hearing second, and the others tying for third...yeah. I don't even want to think about that. People who live without one or more senses are stronger than I think I could ever be. Helen Keller for sure....her story is amazing.
So that would be my thing....er things. ^_^ My senses.
Sorry it's short tonight. Need some rest.
<3 <3 <3 Cassie Stone ~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
Day 14: A Hero that has let you down (write a letter)
Okay, I can't really think of a hero hero....but this is the closest I can come to it....
Dearest Oprah,
I grew up watching your show and learning some great tips from you for a life better lived. I've enjoyed books from your club and have been entertained by many of the guests that have graced your stage. The wealth of knowledge you have shared with the world is admirable, and I respect you.
My assignment was to write a letter to a hero that has let me down. I would say you are the closest thing to a hero, other than my Mother, and Father-and they are good in those terms....as far as not being let-downs...so you come to mind.
I recently subscribed to your magazine, and was horrified at the content. While there were a few good stories, I felt the weight of commercialism and consumerism screaming from just about every page. There was even a section about affordable style...that was not affordable. I was so disappointed.
I am a modest person, living a modest life. As I would assume many of the women that read your magazine are. I was horrified at the clothing lines selected for advertising in the magazine! A $700 jacket, and some equally insanely high priced shoes come to mind first. One outfit on a page would cost more than I spend on my wardrobe in well over a year. Actually, this year I doubt I have spent $200 on my wardrobe (including stuff my husband has bought for me).
It is just that sort of message that makes this world such a difficult place for most. People are shown through advertising that they are "worth more" if they spend more on clothing and other things. That was the last thing I expected to see from a woman who tries to help people learn to live better lives through learning and living it to the fullest.
I would love to see your magazine tailored more towards the message of living well, and within your means. Rather than the message that screams "buy this, or you aren't going to be respected!"
I expected more from you and I was sad to have to cancel the magazine...more people could find happiness if they weren't running the rat race just to waste money on brands and labels. And if someone could help people to learn to live more simply-they'd sure be my hero.
Sincerely, Cassie Stone
So yeah- that would be the gist. I would really want to say more to her. I really did respect her as a person really trying to make a difference. But that's the problem with this world. People say they want to change the world but once they attain the power to be able to, they forget their purpose and fall into the clutches of fame and fashion. A wise woman once said: “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family. Do small things with great love.” That woman is a true Hero to me, Mother Teresa~ Thank you for being the light in the world. I strive to do just that. I try to do everything with love, every small thing with great love.
Do you have a hero, that let you down? Or do you think I'm just silly for getting so worked up about the price of clothing in the magazine? I really thought I'd find something different within those pages....
Thanks for reading, I'd love to see some feedback! And let me know what challenges you are doing, or what you'd like me to do next! I'm almost to the half-way point!
<3 <3 <3 Cassie ~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
Day 13: A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)
I am not one to obsess, or really rely on much other than me myself and I for comfort and such. I know what truly counts is what I create within myself, with that said I have definitely had some tough ass days, months....years... and although I can't say there was one particular band or artist that I owe my continuing presence on this Earth to...I can say that I do love music for its entertainment purposes as well as a great way to jam out when I need to get some stuff done.
I can remember a couple songs that resonate with a particular event in my life or time period of my life so I'll write a short letter to a couple that first came to mind:
Dear Blue Oyster Cult, and Chuck Berry, (*is that an odd combination?)
I am writing this letter to express my gratitude for getting me through some tough ass times. And reminding me of those times each time I hear particular songs of yours.
Blue Oyster Cult you were almost the sole recipient of this letter, but I realized that Mr. Berry also deserved some credit for a certain song that appeared in a movie from my childhood. I will address your influence first.
A few years ago, I began what proved to be one of the most difficult years of my young life. While I am not about to say it couldn't have gotten worse, I know that is not wise, since I said it a few times that year and was proven wrong, and I am not too keen on being wrong, so I'll just leave that part out.
I lost a dear friend early on in that year. She was loved as family and knew more about me than I think I still know today. Her death impacted me greatly and I had a very difficult time accepting she was gone. My busy life at college had taken a toll on our relationship and I didn't see her as much as I should have in those years...I learned a very hard lesson.
While I was still reeling from the pains of her death another friend of mine was in a car accident and died, nearly a month after that I lost a family member, and then the next two months took two more people from my life. By the second death of that year I was fed up with crying and mad at the Universe. As well as myself. I retreated from friends and ended up not gaining many of those friendships back-
I had a cell phone and learned how to download new ringtones and ended up with quite the appropriate ringtone Mantra...
Laaa la laa la laa.
I have a flashback to that year every time I hear that song. The pain less now with the time that has passed, but the memories still strong. It was quite a blur of a year, and that song received quite a few laughs when people would hear my phone. I suppose part of the reason I chose that song was to help deal with the pain... but I think it also might have to do with my admiration of a certain SNL scene that still makes my sides hurt when I watch it:
Bruce Dickinson: I mean, really.. explore the space. I like what I'm hearing. roll it.
Haha, so yeah... Thanks Blue Oyster Cult. You rocked that song as my anthem that year!
(Now, after the reference to the Cowbell scene I might be the only person that remembers I included Chuck Berry in this letter...moving on)
So, Mr. Berry, may I call you Chuck? Chuck, that song Johnny B. Goode was, as most know, in Back to the Future, at the prom. That scene was playing on our family television during a very traumatic moment in my childhood.
I vividly remember it every time I hear that song, or watch BTTF...I was sitting on my Dad's lap and watching the movie, when my Dad, the eternal jokester, decided (I thought) to play one of his pranks on us. About the same time Marty McFly (Micheal J. Fox) saw his hand was starting to disappear, my Dad clutched his chest. I thought he was joking and doing his "Seizure" thing he used to do... when he didn't stop I knew something was terribly wrong.
A very long story short that evening ended with my Dad and Mom going to the hospital while I was in the arms of a very nice firefighter who stayed with me and my siblings until a friend of the family could arrive to watch us. I tear up now thinking about the chain of events and the worry I felt as a very young child.
I have always felt a deep connection with my Father, and not knowing if he was coming back scared me, as I'm sure it would most children.
Luckily he came home, and I still have my Daddy today...but that song reminds me of how fragile life can be, and both songs remind me to take the time to spend with those I love. We never know when they may be the last moments together in this life.
Thanks for the Memories,
Cassie
These songs/artists definitely strike up some vivid memories, and I don't think I will soon forget either episode in my life. And while I rely more on my writing and myself to pull myself through those tough ass times in life- I would like to think this all completes the task of the day. ^_^
Thanks for reading my ramblings! <3 <3 <3 Cassie Stone ~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
Ooooh la la. We have stumbled upon Day 12: Something you never get compliments on
That is an interesting one. I have had a hard time thinking about this post. To say never is quite the finite thing...and I suppose if I never get compliments on it, then I probably wouldn't notice.
My first instinct is to say, well... nothing. But there has to be something. Oh, I know. My photography skills. Er rather, lack thereof.
I suppose I could just practice a bit more, and get better at taking photos. That is definitely something I never get compliments on. "Hey, Cassie- I think you are an awesome photographer and should get paid to do that" said no one. Ever.
Haha. So with that said. Go over to my Instagram page and check out my not so good photos of my life. ^_^
So I suppose that is something I can work on. That would be like me. I don't know how to do something, so I'm going to teach myself how, even if I only do it once. I probably would have been happy going through each and every course at Texas State...just so I could know about everything possible. I wonder how long that would take.... too long. And it would also take me too long to figure it out. >.<
I think people tend to underestimate the power of knowledge. I think that by being an eternal student, we have to potential to learn and do so much. Too many people are stuck in a rut and go through life saying "if only" or "I wish" or even "I bet I could" I see people who are artists of the painting kind and I think to myself "self. You know-you could have stayed in art and tried a bit more, then you could make something cool for your man" But then I think, wow. That would take a lot of time...let's go bake. And I make him his favorite snickerdoodles or some gooey chocolate chip cookies from scratch since boxes and premade cookie dough never come in this house. I'll leave the painting to the people that put all that time into practicing. Which leads me to believe that you can never know the worth of an object or talent until one is presented with the task itself. Only then can you find the true value of it's creation and existence. So to those that think "I can do better" when they see a piece of art, or a wedding cake... then go try! You never know-with time and patience you just might be able to, but there is that chance that you step back and say "whoa, maybe not. I'll leave that masterpiece cake baking to the professional(person who's spent time making it a career)"
Or...you might find yourself a new profession! Haha. So....off to go work on my photography skills. But don't worry...I prefer to leave the real stuff up to the professionals. I never could have photographed our wedding as well as our guy Paul did!
Oh yeah......
On a side note, I had quite the scare last night. I was um...chopping through some frozen celery because I forgot to get it out with the rest of the ingredients, and wanted it in the pot NOW.
...and I umm...kind of let the knife slip out of my cold wet hands while slicing the hard, icy, frozen celery. I thought it cut my finger and dropped the knife completely- when I realized that my foot was right under where I dropped it.
In a split second, which felt like an eternity I jumped up and out of the way, as sparks and a big reddish bluegreen burst through the kitchen (I think I discovered how to make ball lightning).
Me and the family as the ball of lightening burst through the kitchen
Oh, yea...funny story...
I squeaked, and looked to see the damage...I had all my fingers and all my toes! YAY! But oh NO!
My computer cord had been sliced right through by the precious wedding knife we were blessed with! It was my sharpest knife, of course. Only the best for recklessly chopping frozen vegetables, natürlich!
So then....I think- if it did that to the cord, what about my poor knife!?
As you can see ------------->
It melted a perfect little hole in the blade. Still sharp. Still works. But now it has a story to make it completely worth of the Stone's House of Love.
Because if it can't survive the worst conditions it won't survive this house. haha! We! Are! Sparta!
Oh, okay... not really. But it seems to be a pattern in this house. Everything has a great story. Even us.
So, with all that said about the things I don't get complimented on...that is the end of Day 12!
I'd love to know what you don't get compliments on, or if you are doing the challenge-leave me your link!
Time for me to roll on....thanks for reading!! ^_^
~Cassie
*Update*
So my dear neighbor and friend (we'll call her Miss. Mack), who just told me she's read this post. Uh Missy, you know you can post a comment, right? Let a gal have some luv on here.... And that she's always been thinking to herself that the Pics I've posted on Instagram are good. Well, some of them. LOL I think a couple of these might have been what she was talking about. Is this what you've been talking about Miss. Mack?
And if you don't like that nickname....you can tell me so. On here. Otherwise I'll just keep on calling you that. HAHA!
Day 11: Something people seem to compliment you the most on.
Well that is easy...
My current length
It would definitely be my hair. So it isn't as long as Rapunzel's hair, but I've kept it pretty long for a while, now. I love it long, and I love it down. If I didn't live in a place with 100+ degree Summers I would wear it down all the time!
I usually get compliments on the color, and I've had a couple stylists tell me that I should never dye it. I haven't, nor do I think I ever will. I can remember my Mom telling me when all the other girls were getting their hair dyed that once I started I would never be able to stop. And that when she tried dying her hair, at the same time she permed it, she had a horrid reaction. I suppose I kind of always had a fear of getting some sort of reaction, or something. Haha. I also had a dream where I dyed my hair, and then I didn't recognize myself anymore. That was the worst...
I think some girls dye their hair for a change, I get that. But I like who I am, and I love my hair. It gets lighter, naturally in the summer, and darker in the winter. So I kind of get to change with the seasons!
And since this blog is all about truths...I do need to admit to one thing: I used to do so much more with my hair. I tried wearing it in all different sorts of styles and now that I am a busy gal...I don't give my hair the attention I should. So I need to fix that. Definitely.
So yeah, it would be my hair and it's natural ability to be wavy, or straight. With golden kisses from the sun in the summer and flecks of strawberries in the winter.
...Oh and the last time I chopped it short...was after the big breakup. I had been "told" never to cut it short. So what's the first thing I do to show him how over we were? I chopped it! Tee hee.
The Shortest my hair has been in a very long time.
Please don't look at my messy old apartment. This is ca.2006
So that is Day 11! Woo hoo! Posting again tomorrow! This lil' Stone is rolling off to bed! Ta ta for now!
Day 10: Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn't know
Almost to the second week! Hubs is surprised I've not become bored of this. I think he has been trying to make me forget about the blog...Last night we had a lovely evening meeting some friends of ours that are also clients of his, came home enjoyed a movie and some Mancala. Have you played that game? It is soooo addicting!
My brother gave it to me a couple years ago for a gift and I've played it a few times, but we have a heated competition going on in our home. A simple game that even our lil guy is loving!
Ok, back on track: Day 10: There was a guy back in college-oh no not that kind...haha Well, this guy had some major issues, and I ended up being at my friend's house (who happened to be his roomate) when he decided to get wasted and beat up on his girlfriend. A VERY long story short-I ended up holding him back- think: barricading him with my body...until the police came.
I had phone calls from his fraternal buddies, and himself threatening me if I showed up in court. And ended up with a restraining order and police escort on campus a few times because he found out my schedule and was harassing me. I lived in fear-I had just gotten out a bad relationship, and was thrown into this!? All I could think was that I was supposed to help her. I wish there was a way I could have helped her without knowing him. That is the crazy truth. His family ended up spending probably my entire college tuition on getting him a slap on the wrist, so sad.
But I do, I need to let him go. I still worry to this day whether or not she ever got back with him, or if he still lives in my town. All I can do is live in the light of love and hope that they have figured out a better way to live as well. It makes me want to find all the little kids whose parents don't love them the way they deserve, and just do the minimum, or worse, and say "I'm doing my best" those are the kids that need more love. Some people's worst is better than other's best...all it takes is a look in the news to see it. Let alone a look in the playgrounds... True love can move mountains, and know no bounds.
Day 09: Someone you didn't want to let go, but just drifted
Hmmm...well before I get into the sad reality that people drift as they get older...I would like to say that today was the first day back to school for our lil' guy!
He was so excited to start this year. Last year his grades were hard for him to keep up with, the whole: "School is for learning" thing didn't quite sink in with him. I hope it does this year. Life would be quite a bit easier on all of us!
We had to deal with after school tutorials and all sorts of not fun catch-up stuff...so this summer we kind of drilled a few things into him. We've made a Family Agreement, and hold weekly Family Meetings to get all of us on the same page, and talk about what's working and what isn't. I think it has helped immensely! He has a list of manners that we are working on, a couple per week, and we have been practicing spelling, handwriting, math, and other things Fourth Grade. I hope he sees how his hard work will pay off.
This morning was precious. He helped pick out his clothes the night before, we set his alarm, was in bed early for a good start. I made Sunrise Cupcakes (they are really healthy muffins....shhhhhh!) and his favorite cheesy eggs. He had put his backpack on out of excitement as soon as he came out of his room dressed and ready for the day! I laughed with the darling Hubs, and we told him he didn't have to eat breakfast with the backpack on. It was three more times that he put the backpack on out of excitement before it was actually time to go. Once when going to put on shoes, again when he was supposed to go brush his teeth and one final time as I was wanting to help fix his hair.
I can remember the excitement. The butterflies in my stomach, wondering how my teacher was going to be...the desire to be back with all my friends after a long summer away from them. Fourth grade. Wow. It was a year full of writing, spelling and math. I remember it was the first year I knew I made a 100 on all my spelling tests. The first year I had a boyfriend. A "real" one that even gave me a locket, and passed notes to me. We'd meet on the soccer field and the other kids, none of whom had been in a "relationship" like we were chanting for us to kiss....oh the memories.
So as I think about how it was at that age, I strive to make this year even better than his last year. Better than mine, too. I want him to look back at this age as a true joy and with a fondness that will someday grow so large it spills over into his child's experience as well.
As I think of his experience and how great I want it to be, I now can focus on the theme of today's post. It is Day 09, of course. I had a sweet friend in Fourth grade. She and I had been friends since Kinder, and we were practically inseparable. When we were swimming or sharing a bath, we would laugh because people thought we were the other. For a small fleeting moment, I would imagine my life as her sister, we were sisters. However, in Fourth Grade a girl came between us. A bully of sorts, perhaps. But a girl that didn't want to share her friend, who was really my friend. Oh the drama, so long story short; I ended up making a new friend. Still friends with the original when we weren't in school, but this new friend and I realized we lived rather close, and we had many interests.
So we became pretty darn good friends. Although even through the years others came and tried to take this friend from me too, we stayed friends until college. We went to the same school, and wanted to room together, but I was told...not to room with friends. I was so scared it would hurt our friendship that I agreed to room with another that I didn't know as well...and that was probably the one decision of my entire life that I regret. If I could go back and change anything. It would be me choosing anybody over that Fourth Grade friend of mine.
Our relationship dwindled, and fizzled. She lived in an all girl's dorm, and I was in a co-ed upperclassman dorm because the dorm we were supposed to go into was demolished, and we went on a waiting list. So instead of living with a bunch of Freshman and having a dorm with a curfew, I was in a dorm with 21+ers that knew what made college fun. Oh the stories from Rm. 111 at San Saba Hall. I do believe I could write a novel involving psycho roommates and foreign roommates and living in a room all by myself...about the relationships and my baking bringing all the boys to the basement for studying. I also became a campus legend of sorts for a while-but that's for another day. I used to be interesting. Haha.
I do wish this lovely lady and I hadn't drifted so. The nail that sealed the coffin was probably my controlling ex. That relationship, I now realize was so unhealthy...he didn't like any of my friends, and his friends, well. Most of them would hit on me the second he left the room. I wasn't sure if it was because they were testing me to see if I was good for him, or what. I doubt it. As soon as I ended the crazy relationship the propositions came flooding in...blech.
I think I may have hurt her feelings, and I wish I knew how to get us back together to patch things up. But then again, there are many people that I feel I have drifted from. Life gets so busy and with me working two jobs while going to college...then my internships. Well, time just wasn't on my side during that time.
If she's reading this, which I highly doubt...I want her to know how much I miss her. The memories of our Senior year, and that car accident. Oh my....the movie nights when we'd freak ourselves out so much that even Ursula was too scary. The night with the jello...and blasting the cold air into the house so we could pile on the blankets. Good times, with an amazing friend.
So now that I'm all mopey about losing that closeness...about her not being at my Wedding, or even meeting my Hubby and Son...I'll move on to my day and hope that someday we reconnect.
~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss.
Day 08: Someone who made your life hell, or treated you like shit
Wow, well... memories linger back to an old college roommate of mine. Man, that was some crazy stuff to go through and I never thought I would have to deal with someone worse than that-but I have, and it is truly a shame, too. I have only had the best intentions towards people I have to deal with in life. I try and give people the benefit of the doubt. But when someone uses me, or takes advantage of me and mistreats me-there is no way I will roll over and play dead for them. I bite back.
Needless to say, this person doesn't have the ability to make my life hell. No one does, really but me and who would want that negativity anyway? :) But as far as treating me like the poo on the bottom of a shoe, well this person takes the cake. I can't even begin to count the number of things I've had to deal with as a direct result of their negligence and basically lazy attitude towards most things in life. I've picked up the slack and led by example for quite a while now, which is what I will continue to do. We all have reality to deal with, some just try to fake it longer than others.
It is a funny thing how people treat each other when intimidated, like co-workers...when one is going above and beyond, the others sometimes get scared they might make them look bad so they attack, so-to-speak. Or like the "cool" kids attacking the "nerds" it's always the same. Bullies have some sort of shortcoming they have to make up for and can only do so by trying to make another person feel bad. Sad sad stuff. My old Blog had some posts about it...I try to just let most of it roll off my back these days, but man. The stories I could tell. One of my favorite quotes that came from all of this was from this post:
If you act out of respect for yourself you won't go around telling lies and wearing a mask so people think you are something that you are not. There is a point when the mask has to come off... but only after it has become a joke to those that know the truth behind it, and before you realize it is too late to keep the beauty that was once beneath. And you are not being respectful of yourself by creating an image you can't always keep up with. So many people hide behind these masks, and sadly I fear do not even know their true selves.
I always try to look for the silver lining, and even though this person has treated me less than favorably...I have learned quite a few lessons in the process, as well as shown me how lucky I am to have had such an amazing family to have raised me and loved me so well. The power of love is truly amazing. One would think that all a parent would want for their child is love...but some can't see past their selfish desires to let them have that unconditional love they crave, need and thrive from. <3
Well, my Lil' guy's lunch is all packed and ready to go for his first day of Fourth Grade! And I have all the breakfast goodness ready to go for the morning! I can't wait to see his face when he gets his Morning Surprise!
Now that things are getting back to routine around here I will definitely be catching up on some overdue posts of my recent creations!
~Rolling through life to the rhythm of love...share the bliss, and good night!
Woo hoo! I made an image to go with my Thirty Days Challenge! I used Picmonkey, have you tried it? A very easy to use interface and some great free stuff to play with for pictures. Of course, of you are photoshop savvy then you probably don't need it. I just don't have Photoshop on this computer. Boo. I am happy to finally have a bit more time to write. This past month, or three has been pretty busy and I am learning to make more time for the things that I like to do. This Blog is one of the main things on that list. Among a few others-well another day. I made some great granita for a recent little gathering at our house, and also made a plum simple syrup for some cocktails. Quite delish!
Oh yeah- I have to do my challenge thing! So Day 07: Someone who has made your life worth living for
The first thought that comes to mind is that life is worth living because of me...there was a time when I thought life wasn't much worth anything alone and it took me learning how wrong that was. I figured out how to be happy on my own and to love myself unconditionally and then I found someone that was worth sharing that life with.
Of course life without him would be a lot less worth living...and now that I've found my soul mate, a man who loves me for me, I'm not sure I can truly even remember my life before him.
He definitely is a good partner and I am lucky to have him in my life. A great friend, a wonderful Father and the best partner in this life...those are just a few reasons he makes this life worth living!
Time to give the lil guy one last kiss-second night kisses are best when they're dreaming. Then this Stone is rolling off to bed! Bis Morgen!
So today we had a fun final summer hurrah with some of our dear friends and neighbors. I love this little street we live on! We missed a few friendly faces, but will have one soon. With that said. I have about 6 minutes to do this post, and probably about 2 minutes before my Hunny comes looking for me with that you-are-seriously-posting-NOW? look on his face. Um yeah...
So without further adieu, and without any bells or whistles...so sorry...
...here is Day 06: Something you hope you never have to do
I can think of a few things I hope I never have to do...some involving truths that will rise to the surface on their own, and others having to do with other unthinkables... but hmmmm
I hope I never ever have to be apart from my Hubby for a long time....like a few days. I know some people feel the need to get away, I get that. but my Darling Husband is truly my best friend, and I know it sounds lame, but I really hope I never have to spend a night away from him.
I always remeber learning about my Great-somethingth Uncle William and his Catherine, and how they only spent, I think it was 6 days apart, and it was because they had been traveling and one fell ill. I want that. The love that doesn't get old, and the desire that is always there. So yeah. Don't ask me to go on a trip without him, unless you are prepared to get that answer. ^_^ And yes, he feels the same way-if he ever needs to travel for his job, we will figure out a way to go together-even with the future kiddos. They'll be homeschooled and it will be a big family get-a-way. For sure!
Alrighty......night 6, done. And the last summer hurrah is done too!
This 'lil Stone is rolling off to bed! Nighty night! <3
Oh and what recipe should I post first: The Mango Ginger Granita, or my Sweet Sunrise Cupcakes? If you let me know, and live close enough-I'll make you your choice and you can come have tea with me! <3
