Book Club: February Pick

Hello, literary friends. I hope you enjoyed (or are still enjoying) our book for this month! I thought I would let you know now that I have chosen the book for February (actually, I chose it over a month ago!). Our pick for February is P.S., I Love You by Cecelia Ahern.

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Dear Harry Potter

Dear Harry Potter,
Thank you for living up to my high standards once again. Thank you for allowing me to enjoy every minute again, despite sitting on the very front row (yes, the very front row). Thank you for being amazing and making me nearly squeal with delight when you dance, because you can't and it's adorable (seriously, my go-to good moment for the rest of the week!). Thank you for filling my Friday with goodness. Thank you for being awesome.
I just have one small favour. Could you perhaps move the release date of Part two? Six months is just far too long!

xo,
Kristi Beth.

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Wednesday Wisdom

Winter is tough. I miss the sun, the warmth. Winter often steals my motivation and makes me sad. But, there are some ways to combat the terrible winter (I'm talking real winter -- like Canadian winter).

• Make a yummy veggie infused meal
• Exercise! Even though those cold, cold mornings make you want to stay in bed forever, show 'em whose boss and break a sweat
• Paint your nails a bright summery colour (I'm all about the pinks)
• Stay home, and curl up with a good book
• Watch old episodes of a favourite TV show
• Spend time laughing with friends

Hopefully the sun will come out for you, and you can enjoy this winter season. If it can stay like it was today, I'll be okay with that. But, I won't complain if Spring comes early this year! 

Fashion Inspiration

My greatest inspiration (fashion and otherwise) comes from the lovely Audrey Hepburn. Seriously, this woman had the greatest style.
Last night, Candi and I were talking about Audrey movies, and one of our favourites, "How to Steal a Million". I love that movie not only for the plot, but because of the wardrobe! I am inspired by every single piece of clothing that she wears in the film -- even the nightgown that she wears when she meets Peter O'Toole's character at the beginning.

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Fabulous, right?! Why don't we dress like this anymore?

Three

Three years. Three years. Three years!
Today, Justin and I are celebrating our anniversary (apart -- again). I love him so much, and am so happy to have him in my life. The past three years (and five months) have been so wonderful (though kind of hard too), and it has been a joy to share it with him. Just eight and half more months and he will be home! Ah! I'm just a wee bit excited!

(Two years ago, celebrating one year with the wonderful Sam Roberts)

Happy anniversary, sweetie. I love you!

Hector and the Search for Happiness

I just finished reading a delightful book. Delightful. Hector and the Search for Happiness by Francois Lelord. It was simplistic, yet incredibly thought provoking. If you have ever read The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince), you will love this one. It made me think a lot. And many little laughs occurred too. Such a cute read (but not a dumbed down cute). Go and pick yours up now!

ps: I love the cover design. And yes, I do judge books by their covers. 

It Only Takes a Moment

It's really hard being away from someone you love. Some days are harder than others, but it's never really easy. For the most part, you just get used to the time and distance and wait for those moments when your heart can be whole again.
Lately I have been having a really hard time with Justin being gone. I am at the point where I am getting really excited for him to come home (in 8 1/2 months!), but completely terrified at the same time. We have kept our relationship incredibly strong these past fifteen months, but there are those moments where I wonder, and worry, and fret. I wonder if I made the right decision. I wonder if maybe I should try dating other guys. I wonder if it will all come back and if we'll be able to go through on the plans we've made.
And then there are times where I read a letter, or hear a song, or see a picture and I just know. I know that I love Justin and I know that we'll be okay.

I just had one of those moments a few seconds ago. Justin's mom just e-mailed me a picture that one of her friends had found from the summer Justin graduated. It made my heart melt and smile and squeal with joy. I love this boy. This man. I love him and I am so lucky that he loves me too. I can do eight and a half months. And more importantly, I can do today. One day at a time. And soon enough, I'll be with him again, laughing because I was worried for no reason. 

My man and his other girl, Jill. 

Baking help

I love to bake, as we all know -- and if you didn't know that already, allow me to introduce myself. Hi, I am Kristi. I love to bake.
So, now that we have established that fact, let's get to the point of this post. I love to bake a lot. I will find any excuse to try my hand at anything involving sugar and flour, resulting in the end result of yummy in my tummy. I especially love making cakes and cupcakes. I want to make some cupcakes or a cake this week for a Relief Society activity that we are having, but want to be sensitive of the allergies that some of the sisters in my ward have. There are a few that are lactose intolerant and this causes a slight issue with my buttercream icing recipe. I use about three tablespoons of milk in it (for the three cups it makes), but I'm not sure if that makes a difference to someone who has that allergy. So, here is where you come in, my lovely readers. Does that make a difference? Do you know of any dairy free recipes that would be super yummy for all?

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The red polka dot dress

As per Laura's request, and just for the sake of nostalgia, here is a look at my grad dress. When I was choosing a dress for grad, I knew I wanted something different. I wanted something that spoke to me, and would reflect my personality. I wanted something fun, and something I could wear more than once. It is still hanging in my closet, and I have yet to alter it (it's at least two sizes too big now), but I really want to find somewhere to wear it again. I still love it! 

Past in Present

Tonight, I met up with two of my very best friends from high school -- Jay and Alan. I spent pretty much all my spare time at school with these boys back in the day and always had so much fun with them. Throughout all of high school, Jay was my very best friend, always the guy I could count on. In the past three and half years since we graduated, we have lost touch because of our different schedules. Occasionally, I will see Alan at school, but this was probably the first time since graduation that we have actually had a chance to sit and have a real conversation. It was really nice.
It was kind of interesting to see how little things have changed -- but also how much they have changed. My world is so different now from the time I was seventeen or eighteen. There are people in my life now that weren't then, and I can't even remember what that was like! It's just weird to take a look back and see how I've evolved, and how my surroundings have changed too.

Jay and I, starting our modeling careers young. (Grade 10)

And all "grown-up" -- or so we thought. Graduation 2007. 

Alan and I at the grad banquet.

I have some really great pictures of the three of us from grade twelve, but for some reason they are not on my computer. So, I will have to find them and post them later!

Goodnight

xo 

Jumpin' Jammerz

The other day on Ellen, Ryan Gosling brought Jumpin Jammerz for the entire audience. I want some! I love footie pyjamas! Seriously. Whoever is reading this, and loves me should make a note that my birthday is in just five months (a medium would fit just fine).

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Stranded in the Middle of No Place

There have been a few times in my life where I think "that is something I will tell my grandkids". And this weekend I had one of those experiences. An experience I will forever remember and treasure.
My Saturday evening was all planned out, and I had been looking forward to for a while. It was supposed to begin with a nice drive out to Strathmore, followed by a delightfully yummy dinner (I was promised asparagus and cheesecake!) made by the guys in my ward, followed by some fun times, and ending the night dancing the night away at the IRC "Welcome Back Week" dance back in Calgary. But, that is not what happened.
Instead, it decided to snow. A lot. Despite the weather, we decided to still make the trip, and still expected things to go as planned. They didn't. We didn't get to leave until late, and after extremely terrible roads -- I'm pretty sure I held my breath for the entire time we were driving -- which ended up being almost an hour! We finally made it to the Bishop's house and got to eat what was left (since we were about an hour late). And then Chantelle and I made our way downstairs to our favourite spot -- the massage chair! So many good moments in that chair. We ate our delicious cheesecake, laughed and laughed and laughed.
And then we found out that the highway was closed. Highway-1, which would get us home to Calgary was closed. Closed. We were stranded. No dance, no home. We quickly figured out where we could all stay (thank goodness for knowing other people that live in Strathmore!).
Since we were stuck, we spent time playing games, enjoying large amounts of sugar and more laughter. One word: spoons. You can picture it, right? Lots of screaming. Lots of laughter. Some blood was drawn. All in all a great time.
Then, it was off to Sarah's sister's house to sleep. We ooed and awed over her adorable nephew, watched "Two Weeks Notice", and had a pretty decent sleep. In the morning came CocoaPuffs and more cute kids.
Since our whole bishopric and nearly our whole ward was stranded in Strathmore, we had a sacrament meeting at the bishop's house -- in their home theatre. It was a pretty wonderful experience. It is so amazing to feel the spirit in those moments. After a short lesson on Provident Living (perfect for the occasion!), we had a testimony meeting. It was great to hear everyone's individual testimonies and the gratitude that was expressed. At this point in the day, we fully expected to be staying another night and I was so happy to be with good people, in a good home making the best of our situation.
Just before dinner and a great game of ping pong, we found out that they would be opening the highway before it got dark, so we'd be able to get home! What a crazy turn of events!
After a delicious lunch, and many more prayers we were on our way back home, full of gratitude and memories.
When I was younger, I always thought it would be fun to be snowed in somewhere or stranded. Now I know that if you have the right people, a big house, and lots of food it can be quite enjoyable!

A new favourite

I have many favourites. Favourite songs. Favourite colours. Favourite quotes. Favourite people. And favourite scriptures. Yesterday, I came across a new favourite scripture. It was one of those scriptures that I have probably read before, but never noticed. But boy did I notice it this time! It hit me immediately, and I have a feeling it will stay in my brain and my heart for a very long time.

Exodus 14:14

"The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace."

That was a "wow" moment for me.

Creative 2011

My sister and brother just posted a great idea on facebook, and I thought I would do the same, but on here. Here is the idea:
"Getting creative in 2011. I promise to send something handmade/homemade to the first 5 people who comment on this status.... within the year, you will get your surprise. In turn you must post this (on your blog or) as your status and send something handmade /homemade to your first 5 comments".

I have actually made it one of my goals for the year to give handmade/homemade gifts this year and work on my creative skills. So, here's the deal. Be one of the first five to comment and I will make something for you this year. It will be a surprise, but I promise it will be good. (And please join in! I'd be sad if you don't).

xo

Fashion Inspiration

I have mentioned a few times that I have a slight obsession with the lovely Zooey Deschanel. But really, how could I not? From the voice to the bangs to the dresses, I can only admire.
I am especially loving her entire wardrobe from 500 Days of Summer. Like this dress. I now have the overwhelming desire to darken my hair a smidgen, wear bows in my hair and pretty day dresses every single day. Seriously. I would.

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Come On Get Happy

After a conversation with one of my co-workers today, where I tried to convince him that it can actually be fun to work in the kid's department, I became more aware of my lack of cynicism that seems to plague this world (especially people I work with -- what is it about a bookstore that decreases optimism?).

I like being optimistic. I like seeing the good in people. I don't think that I am naive (though yes, I will admit I can be naive in some regards). I feel like giving way to a negative outlook on life would seriously diminish any chance at happiness. And I want to be happy, and I'm okay with that. 

I believe in love, and I believe in good. And I'm pretty sure a few happy thoughts a day will extend my life a little, which I wouldn't complain about. 

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Book Club: January Pick

Hello, fellow book lovers! It is already January 4th, and as my mom pointed out to me, I need to chose a book for this month so we can know what we're reading!

So, the book for January is The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows.

Are you in? I hope so! 

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Polka dots

I have a love-love relationship with polka dots, so when I saw this room on You Are My Fave, my heart squealed with joy. Seriously, amazing right? 

 

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Hello, 2011!

Well, so far 2011 is a good year. I had a wonderful day at church today, had prayers answered, spent time with my family, made predictions for the new year (our family tradition) and I am still hopeful that I will be able to achieve the goals I have set for myself. I think it will be a good week. A good month. A good year.
Enjoy this newest video from MormonMessages. What a great message!



Oh, and tomorrow is Monday! E-mail!

What a Year for a New Year

There is a Scottish tradition that at  midnight, as the new year begins you open your back door to let out the old year and once that door is closed, you open your front door to welcome the new year. Being a Scot, I love my traditions (we have a lot!) and love that my mom taught me this one.
It's been my job to do this ritual for at least the last three or four years and I have to say it is probably one of my favourite things about New Year's Eve (besides the kiss -- which I have to wait another year for!). Doing that just now, I became a little emotional. To me, opening that back door meant getting rid of bitterness and bad habits, loneliness and failures. Opening that front door, I felt a resurgence of hope -- that good things will come. I love having a fresh start. I have so many things that I want to improve on this year, and I am glad for each new day that I can do better.

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Happy New Year, friends! I hope that 2011 brings you all the love, joy and happiness that you deserve!

xo

End of the year recap

With only one day left of 2010, I have been thinking back on what has happened these past 364 days. So, for this post I have decided to take an inventory of some of my favourite 2010 moments.

celebrating two years with the most amazing man (even though we were 2500 km apart)

discovering my life motto

learning that I actually love spinach

realizing that I love my life

going to "Fiddler on the Roof"

lip synching our hearts out to "Matchmaker"

Every single month that I became closer to seeing my guy again!

discovering many more movies to love

cheering on my country in the 2010 Olympics  

hanging out with my favourite kiddos

getting sweet, thoughtful gifts from my guy

falling in love over and over again

March Madness

photo shoot with David

road trip with the ladies

dressing up 90s style

dance party

leading the family playoffs hockey pool

one of my favourite musicians melting my heart all over again

getting tapes from my missionary

sharing my twenty-first birthday with Woody and Buzz

competing in my very first 5K race

seeing The Gaslight Anthem

EFY: week one and two

starting my new job

Phase 10 parties

trying to find our way through the Calgary Corn Maze

discovering new music

starting a book club

Harry Potter

celebrating American Thanksgiving with my family and friends

discovering that I can wear red lipstick

buying my own Christmas tree

Christmas

good days

going to see "The Wizard of Oz"

Making this list, I realized that despite what I often think, 2010 has been a pretty good year. I had a lot of  troubles this year, but I had a lot of good times too. Thank you to everyone who helped me get through my toughest year yet. 

"Is this a movie?"

No matter where I go with my girls -- especially Candi, it is always an adventure. Last night was no exception. The play was fantastic! We had great seats (first row in the centre of the second balcony) and the actors did not disappoint. I love the theatre ("the theatre, the theatre, what's happened to the theatre?") and love being apart of that collective experience. And it was a joy to share it with Candi. We've decided to make it a new tradition, and Marni you are welcome to continue the tradition of footing the bill!
From the hilarious conversations behind us ("is it over?") to trying to determine the relationship status of the boys next to us, it was quite a night.

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Fifteen

Ah, beautiful 30th of December. I love the end of the month. By now we should all know what it means when we reach the 30th.
Justin, our favourite missionary, has been gone for fifteen months. Fifteen! That means that in nine months, he will be home! Just one more "mission-baby", as mom calls it. Yep! We are in the single digits, my friends! Single digits! I never thought I could actually make it this far! Well, I knew I could I just wasn't sure how much would be left of me. Apparently I am still alive and hope to be in nine months time, so I can give this guy the biggest hug ever!

(NYE two years ago -- we're such babies!)

"We're off to see the Wizard!"

For Christmas, my favourite sister and brother-in-law got me two tickets to see "The Wizard of Oz" which is in Calgary this week. I love live theatre and was sad I found out this one was coming too late to save money for it. So, it was a very lovely surprise to unwrap those tickets.
And I get to take Candi with me, so I'm extra excited about that! Earlier this year, in January, I took Candi to see "Fiddler on the Roof". Perhaps this will become a new tradition?

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Wednesday Wisdom

I apologize for the lack of wisdom the past few Wednesdays. I promise to be better!

Today, I decided to show how to wear a scarf.
(Update: I made another video because the other was a little messed up with the audio. Enjoy)

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

I finally finished it last night. I've been reading this one since the beginning of November, but because of school and other distractions (like starting new books --  I have a sickness, I know) I wasn't able to finish it yet.
So, how was it? I actually quite enjoyed it. There were moments where I wondered what Jane Austen would think of this take on her timeless classic, and others where I was in a fit of laughter.
Overall, I appreciated it. It was quite humorous and I feel like for the most part, the integrity of it remained intact.
This will however be my last venture into the world of re-written classics -- it's a little over done these days!

 

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p.s. Book club members, I hope you enjoyed/are enjoying our pick this month. I'll post discussion questions at the end of the month. Happy reading!

NYE Looks

New Year's Eve is right around the corner, and despite my lack of plans for that night, I thought I would try my hand at creating a few party looks.

Look number one: for the classy gal who only needs her LBD and a pair of great pumps to ring in the New Year (this would be my choice for a more sophisticated evening out on the town).

Black Dresses by All Saints
Clutches by Townsend

Look number two: for the more daring gal who wants a punch of colour and prints (this would be my choice for a casual NYE party).

Cardigans by Forever 21
Pumps by Steve Madden

Thoughts, please!
 

Fashion Inspiration

Even though my hair has grown quite a bit in the last year, I am still aching for longer locks. Like the lovely Leighton Meester. That girl rocks the loose curl like none other.
I have my fingers crossed very tightly that my hair can be this long soon (like this time next year?)

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p.s. I am off work for the next three days, so prepare yourselves for more blogging, friends. 

"I think I like today, I think it's good"

It has been a good day.
Work was good, and the day went by pretty quickly.
I got my usual lovely e-mail from my dear and got to chat back and forth for twenty minutes! It was splendid.
I finally made a decent poached egg.
"Breakfast at Tiffany's" was on TV tonight.
I finished "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" (I will post a review tomorrow).
And now I am sitting, wrapped in my favourite blanket watching "Pride and Prejudice" (the Keira Knightley version, as I don't have time to watch the BBC right now -- perhaps tomorrow?)
Oh, and I don't have to work tomorrow. Lovely.

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Happy Christmas

Happy Christmas, friends (yes, a day late but it still counts!)
I hope Santa was kind to everyone!

With love from me to you!

ps: Only five more days left of 2010! FINALLY!

Christmas Present

It is Christmas Eve, and I am happily sitting in my kitchen, watching "Confessions of a Shopaholic" (thank you, Marni and James), eating chocolates. Loverly, isn't it? Yes, it is.

And even more loverly (yes, I am intending to type loverly), is that I received a package from California today. And inside I found a tape. A tape with my man's voice. Seriously, this was the best possible present I could get this year. And it came at the perfect time. I needed to hear that sweet voice. I needed to hear that chuckle. I needed to remember what it was like. And now I do. I feel like I have something to believe in again, and it is wonderful.

I love being loved. 

It's Christmas! Let's Be Glad!

Christmas is in five days. That's right. FIVE DAYS!

Like I said to Justin in my e-mail this week, sometimes the days seem to go by turtle-slow and others, it's "Sonic-the-Hedgehog" fast. Today, realizing that Christmas is five days away (almost four) makes it feel like time is actually kind of speeding up. And I am certainly happy about that!

I love the Christmas season and all that it brings. I love the egg nog, the carols, wishing people a "Merry Christmas", the movies, the family time. I love celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is just such a beautiful time of year.

Tonight, for my ward's FHE, we went to see the Nativity Pageant at Heritage Park. It was really good, as usual (and really cold too). There were a lot of changes to it this year as well, so I would recommend everyone go to check it out! You will not be sorry, I promise! 

Fashion Inspiration

I mentioned that Marni and I went to see "Life as We Know It", starring the lovely Katherine Heigl. I adore her! Every time I see her movies, I come away finding something new about her style that I love and wish I could pull off myself.
Exhibit A:

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I love the hat. Love it. I am a little scared to try it, but really want to. Hopefully the fedora will still be in style this coming summer and my hair will be long enough to make it look decent. 

Brief relief

I feel the need to breathe a giant sigh of relief right now. I finally finished school this week and handed in my final papers Friday. I had another unmotivated semester and am glad it is over. I am looking forward to January and what it will bring -- especially since I have had some major wakeup calls in regards to my education and am looking forward to a semester where I actually put forth some genuine effort. 

I was sick yesterday, and unable to go to work (well, I could have gone, but that would not have been fun), so I did some sleeping, extremely quick (and uninspiring) essay writing, and movie watching. Thank you Will Ferrell for keeping my spirit light. "Elf" was just the cure for my blues last night. That and a cup of chicken noodle. And a warm blanket. Mmm.

And today after a very, very busy day at work (my busiest yet -- I was on cash for nearly my entire shift), and a frustrating shopping adventure (try to find a nice black skirt and jewel-toned top -- not easy!), I got to escape the world for a little while and enjoy a movie with my sister. We saw "Life as We Know It" and it was wonderfully charming. I laughed, I cried, and cried and laughed. 

Before my relief turns into stress again tomorrow, I shall enjoy my Christmas music and a little light reading ("Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" -- a joy!). 

xo

Top 9

Christmas  is in just nine days, so I thought today I would share my top nine Christmas songs for this week. They all great, and I am sure you will be beaming with Christmas spirit by the time you are done listening. Enjoy. Seriously, your ears will thank you for it.

Happy birthday to you!

Twenty-two years ago, one of my very favourite people was born. It's Candi's birthday today, and I needed to dedicate a special post to this very special woman. Candi is not only one of my very best friends, she is my distant cousins, so our bond is pretty strong. Besides my siblings, she has been my longest friend and I look forward to many more decades of friendship. I could go on for hours and hours detailing all of our many adventures (the safety pillow, zee cute boys, Phase 10, dance parties, vegetables, etc), but I will save your eyes the length and just say that having Candi as my life long friend has truly been a blessing.

And just for you, Candi... 

Happy birthday, Can-di! 

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree

I know it's Christmastime when I hear this song. I love it. It definitely makes my heart happy every time I hear it.

Also, it reminds me of Home Alone. So great! 

Bob and Doug's "12 Days of Christmas"

I love Christmas carols and songs, and thought I would share one each day until Christmas. Sounds delightful, doesn't it?
Today, I am sharing one of my very favourites, Bob and Doug Mackenzie's "12 Days of Christmas". (I am not a fan of the animated Bob and Doug, but it was the best video I could find). Enjoy!

Merry Christmas, hosers!

I Get a Kick Out of You

Today is Frank Sinatra's birthday. 95th! I bet they're having a really good party in heaven. I wish I could be there! But, since I can't (which when you consider that I would have to be dead to attend, is a good thing) I will celebrate here. Frank Sinatra Christmas? I think so!

Happy birthday, Ol' Blue Eyes! 

David Dudley Photography

I am perpetually in awe of the creativity and talent that surrounds me -- especially in my own family. My brother is a photographer. A very good photographer. He has a gift for capturing the moment within the picture. When David takes a picture, it's not just random colours mixed together -- it's a story.
Good news for all of those (most likely all of you!) who want to hire David for a session, or even order some of his prints -- he has just set up his professional website. Do it. I promise, your life will be better for it (plus your eyes will appreciate the pretty things to look at).

Impressed yet? You should be. Just looking at this picture makes me feel more alive. 

ps: check out his blog. 

Newest Obsession

My heart is squealing with excitement right now. I am in love.
I have taken an extra fancy to interior design lately, and am loving everything to do with decorating my home. When I discovered one of Jonathan Adler's books at work today, I was slightly intrigued and made a mental note to pick it up sometime soon, and then just now I discovered that Jonathan Adler has a store, with pretty, pretty things. Beautiful beds, pottery, rugs, pillows, dinnerware, lamps, mirrors, bedding, picture frames ... you get the picture. My mind is exploding at this very moment with love. Seriously.
I love the bold colours, the amazing prints. Ah! It is fantastic. Just one small problem: I live in the wrong city! If only I lived in Newport Beach or New York (it is in my plans one day though!).
The items are just slightly out of my current price range, but I am happy for the inspiration.

A-ma-zing! Right? My dislike for orange drops significantly when I see this beautifully decorated room. I love it! If only I had realized four years ago that I wanted to be an interior designer!

Wish

In case you wanted to know, here is what my eyes are drooling over this Christmas season:

A vintage style cake stand. Here.

This beautiful camera. Here.



These prints. Here.



This beauty. Here.



This scarf. Here.



This book. Here.

I could probably go on forever, but there is a brief look into my wishful thinking mind.. you know, in case you fancied knowing what I'd like under the tree?

Ending Start

I detest the end of semester. Detest. Yes, I meant to use that word. I know that it is a harsh word, but I need to use a harsh word.
For me, end of term means papers upon papers, stress upon stress. Numerous times this week -- and perhaps even more times today I have wanted to quit school, move to an island and never look at another book again. Crazy I know, because we all know that I adore books, but this is what end of term does to me. I hate it.
Every time that I have to write a paper, especially term papers, I procrastinate. A lot. I try to avoid writing as much as possible, and then when I finally have to give in and write, it's like I am being sentenced to the torture chamber and must go through the worst of it.
Perhaps I am being slightly dramatic, but this is how it is. December 16th, you cannot come soon enough!

In Memoriam

Thirty years ago, one of the greatest songwriters of all time was killed. Thirty years ago today, John Lennon died at the age of forty. So young!
Today in memory of the great John Lennon, I listened to some of my very favourite Lennon songs. "Imagine", "Instant Karma (We All Shine On)", "Jealous Guy", "Real Love"... you get the picture.
John Lennon left a great legacy and I will forever be grateful for his amazing music.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

We all know that I have infinite love for the great Jack Johnson. And Christmas. Put them together, and what do you get? Christmas carols that are realistic! And beautiful too.
Jack Johnson's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" is one of my very favourites, especially with his ending. If you don't know what I am talking about (and even if you do), then you need to listen to it right this minute. (Just press play and enjoy, it's that simple).

Old Enough

I am realizing more and more that I am growing up -- whether I like it or not. I often don't feel old enough to have friends married, or having babies. It seems strange to think that I could be married in less than two years, and starting that chapter of my life.
This feeling of "not being old enough" is pretty strong right now, especially with my newest calling. Today I was called to be the Relief Society President of my YSA ward. It is such a huge responsibility and I am terrified! Our last president was so amazing. I have really big shoes to fill!
What I have learned this weekend is that prayers are answered. And also that Heavenly Father knows my potential, even if I myself can't see it.
I just need to remember to take really deep breaths. In. And out.
"Keep calm and carry on", right?

Book Club: December Pick

Thank you to M and Holly for voting on this month's book. For those that wish to join, we will be reading Charles Dickens' classic, "A Christmas Carol". It's a really short read (just over 100 pages), so hopefully you can find some time to add a little joy to your holiday.
Happy reading!
xo

ps. I posted some discussion questions for November's pick, and would love some feedback!

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O Christmas Tree

This is just for you, Laura.

Last night, I bought myself a Christmas tree. I have always wanted a little tree in my room, but just never found one that I liked. But now that I am a little older, I have felt a great desire to have one. Plus, mom says I am "nesting". I am ready to have my own house, but because I currently lack funds to do so, I just try to decorate my parent's house here and there with little splashes of "Kristi".
I love my Christmas tree and look forward to using it for many years. Plus, I am in love with my ornaments. They are festive, but funky too -- with lots of glitter.

I love Christmas!

Book Club: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Discussion

Okay reading buddies, let's discuss!
It's been quite the busy day, so I haven't given much thought to this questions, but here it goes.

1. Let's start with an easy question. Did you like the book? Why or why not?
2. How does the final chapter in the Harry Potter series compare with books 1-6?
3. Did the in-depth study of certain characters (ie. Snape, Dumbledore or even Harry, Hermione, etc.) change your perception of them? Or did you remain true to your original feelings prior to reading?
4. Does the book end with enough closure? Or did it leave you wanting more?
5. Did you also see the movie? If so, how did you like it (or dislike it) in comparison with the book.

I'd love your feedback!

Happy reading.
xo

A Little's Enough

Last weekend, I found mini-muffin pans on sale. I couldn't say no, especially since I have been dreaming of making cute mini cupcakes since my friend's wedding reception in October. So, tonight when I got home from school, I decided it was time to try them out.
Behold the finished product:

I love making cupcakes. 

And thank you mom for letting me use your beautiful camera -- now I know for certain that I NEED to get my own (wink wink -- Christmas is soon, remember!). 

Wednesday Wisdom

About a week ago, my brother posted something on his photography blog that made me think. He talked about the fact that we all have knowledge that can be shared with others. He was talking about photography, but it hit me in the broader sense. In my twenty-one years I have acquired a little wisdom -- whether it be the proper way to structure a sentence, how to make nearly perfect buttercream icing or how to wear a scarf (when I worked at Reitmans, I was asked this question almost daily). I've thought a lot about how I can share my knowledge, and it came to me yesterday while sitting in my Institute class: Wednesday Wisdom (yeah, I'm a sucker for alliteration).
Today, I will share my recipe for buttercream icing. This is a recipe from my mom, but at times I will modify it to achieve different results.

4 cups icing sugar
3 Tbsp. milk
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup shortening
1 tsp. vanilla
1/8 tsp. salt (optional -- I rarely use it)

First, you will need to cream the butter and shortening in a mixer until smooth, then add the vanilla. Next, add the sugar -- but only one cup at a time! (Otherwise it's super messy and won't blend very well). Also, make sure that you scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to get everything. Add the milk and blend until completely mixed and smooth. If you want to colour the icing, add your colouring in and mix the icing a little more to spread the colour evenly. Make sure to cover the bowl with a damp cloth to avoid drying out.
This recipe will give you great icing that is yummy and super creamy.
If you want more of a vanilla taste, add one or two extra teaspoons to your mix. It won't affect it too much, but you will notice a slight difference.
Also, if you don't want to make as much icing, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but you don't necessarily need to reduce the other ingredients. I did that once, and it still turned out quite good. The icing was much more creamy that with the extra sugar, and took a little longer to set, but it was still quite good!

Happy baking! If you try it, let me know what worked for you!

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Another tip: if you have icing left over (as you probably will), do not throw it out! Instead, spread some on graham crackers or soda crackers to make a little cracker-icing sandwich. Best treat, trust me!