Happy Thanksgiving to One & All!

For the first time in more years than I can remember, I’m actually sitting on my couch at home, drinking my coffee in front of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Typically, I’m only able to catch bits and pieces of the holiday favorite while rushing to get ready and out the door. Although I am a bit sad to forgo our recent Thanksgiving tradition, there is still much to be thankful for.

Our recent jam-packed schedules have caused Casey and me to be a bit more day-to-day than usual. About six weeks ago, I did call to reserve a spot for the pup, but apparently only made it as far as getting Rusty Trawler on the wait list. When we received our annual invitation to Round Rock, it was then I realized there was no Thanksgiving home for Rusty T.

After all the recent chaos, this may actually be a blessing in disguise. We haven’t had much time or energy for relaxing, so this weekend will be devoted to such things. Prime example—the fact I’m sitting on the couch in my pajamas writing. I already finished a Mary Higgins Clark book this morning, and shortly I’ll head out for a run. The kitchen will be the next stop, as I prep for our “Midwest Thanksgiving.” By noon, I’ll have spent more time with my favorite hobbies than I have in past weeks combined!

This day may not be filled with the typical traditions… the comforting Norwegian dialect, delectable homemade lefse or the stories and community that accompany the Nelson clan…gathering in Austin at my aunt and uncle's, catching up with the cousins, challenging each other to friendly competition over board games… Nonetheless, today we’re thankful to spend time with dear friends (and our pups), stay close to home since all our families are so far away, and be so blessed.

Happy Turkey Day!

P.S. Happy six years in Texas to me! I’m also quite thankful there is no unloading of U-Hauls required today!

Save the Jungle!

Yesterday I was greeted with some very upsetting news… NBC announced plans to cancel Lipstick Jungle. Mind you, this is one of the only dramas currently on air that features a strong, female-centric cast. Not only has it been a welcome relief to the long-standing television tradition of the leading man, to me it has also marked the return of non-reality television. And aren’t we all ready for that?

Each week I look forward to catching up with my “girlfriends” and forgetting the ongoing drama and stress of recent life. And the style?? This is a show I could watch without dialogue. It takes much concentration it catch all the wonderful fashion and accessories, so I’m constantly backtracking to be sure nothing was missed. If only I could be Victory Ford and live with her closet…

All I have to say is, NBC, what are you doing to us? First American Dreams…then Studio 60…and now Lipstick Jungle? Please understand there is quite a fan base. Just because we may not be watching the show live, doesn’t mean we’re not watching. I—along with so many others—have followed these shows religiously via DVR and am not ready to lose more of my favorite NBC friends. Move some ladies representing our voices up your corporate ranks, and SAVE THE JUNGLE!

Respects to that Ghoulish Holiday

Yes, I realize Halloween is over, but I have yet to pay my respects to the holiday that has caused so much turmoil in my life. Historically this is a day for people of all ages to don their attire of choice and transform into someone or something else. I can appreciate the excuse to shake off inhibitions and live that foreign life for a night, but this holiday has always been a struggle for me.

Just ask my mum… To this day, I still rib her a bit about my never getting to be Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. I mean, who doesn’t want the chance to click their heels and travel wherever the ruby red slippers take you?! In her defense, dressing as Dorothy was kind of a last-minute request… Still, why couldn’t she whip up a costume overnight? (Just kidding, Mom! Love you!)

As I’ve gotten older, Halloween has continued to be a stressful occasion. Therefore, most years I take the easy route and avoid costume parties that require me to dress for the affair. This year, however, I took my first step towards rejoining the hoards of Halloween aficionados by donning cat ears for the day. And, to up the ante at the Blevins’ household, even Rusty Trawler dressed for the occasion (and 2nd birthday). Enjoy our attempt to mark the day!

And here is a snapshot of a childhood costume from twenty (yikes!) years ago, courtesy my mother’s archives:

Happy day to all!