Do You Like Your Marriage?

There's something about marriage that bothers me.

It seems to be the public norm to bash marriage.  Encourage gender roles.  Commiserate misery.

I'M SICK OF IT!

Let me explain...

Think of the expression "old married couple".  As if everything becomes boring and goes to crap after you get married.  Think of "Happy wife, happy life".  As if everything in a marriage is about keeping the wife happy, and that it's the husband's job.  Think of the "old lady being at home tonight".  As if all women are domestic.

The old "haven't gotten any since the wedding day".  Or "gave her a ring and then (so-and-so) happened".

I'm sorry people, but if these are your issues, then you probably should have talked a little more before deciding to marry each other.  I hate when people make marriage seem like a miserable, never-ending, entrapment.  Why is it the societal norm to complain about your marriage/spouse in public?  To make it seem like an impossible thing to be married and HAPPY?

This rant is prompted by many instances, but most recently, our new car purchase.  While passing time with our salesperson (who was fantastic, and his daughter attends Concordia College, Go COBBS!) he kept making statements about "who's in charge of the budget" (insinuating me), "who makes the decisions", and "keeping the wife happy".  Now, I get that he may have been playing the "flatter the wife" card, but this stuff happens ALL THE TIME!  To everyone, not just us.

While we were engaged, sometimes I would confide in my now-husband about feeling a little down, and out of place.  People I talked to about wedding planning, being engaged, etc., would respond with, "I can't imagine myself getting married at this age", "I'm so not ready to get married", and the constant "I can't believe you're getting married!" (not as a compliment).  My amazing guy's response?  "If they were in your shoes, they would have a completely different perspective".   Yeah...you can't imagine yourself getting married, because you haven't found the right person/aren't ready for the commitment/whatever your reason.  You're not in the place that I am. So...note to readers - a simple "Congratulations!" will do.  Comparisons aren't necessary.

What's my point?  Let's turn around this negative view of marriage and brag about how our husbands do the laundry, give us back rubs, and tell us how much they love us.  I always have my husband on my side, no matter what.  How is that not AWESOME!?

Marriage isn't a trap, it's a union (whether you're religious or not).  Yeah, there's disagreements, but make your marriage full of love, and you'll make it through.  Choose someone you want to spend every moment with, make every memory with, and spend your LIFE with!

I, for one, think marriage is amazing.  

Five on Friday {Volume Four}

So it's officially been two months since I've done a fun Friday post.  You'll find out why if you keep reading.  We've had a lot of changes lately and are enjoying this time of transition in our lives. Luckily, we have great family to lean on and are always growing in our relationship together.  I'll break down our recent month into the big points to share here.  Sorry I've been out of touch!
ONE:  
April 21st was my last day at my amazing job in Austin.  I was lucky to have secured a position at the largest law firm there.  I learned so much about the legal world and litigation.  I really enjoyed delving in to a whole new area and meeting a ton of great people along the way.  Thanks to everyone at JW for your patience, advice, and all of the memories!!
TWO:
April 24th, hubby and I packed everything up AGAIN and took a two day drive to Minnesota.  Austin, Texas treated us so well, but the Midwest has our hearts and our families.  It was hard to leave the warmth, great people, and mostly, the food scene.  We are currently enjoying our time in the country crashing with my parents.  The internet deadzone, one bathroom, and limbo should be getting us down, but we are loving the down time.  Mike is able to work from home, and I am taking the purposeful unemployment as a nice break.  If you need moving advice, just ask!

Leaving Texas

Minnesota Welcoming Us Home

THREE:
We came back to Minnesota much earlier than expected (and crashed with the parents) to get in on the house hunting game.  Let me tell you, it's not fun.  We suck at this game.  We are a tough couple because we want a modern house in the country, preferably with out buildings, but within an hour of the Twin Cities.  And we want it to be our forever home.  So it has to be big enough, close to grandparents, and affordable.  Now you see the problem.  We've almost made an offer two times, but it hasn't been quite right.  Patience is not my strong point, but this has been good for me and good for our relationship.
FOUR:
I finally got to meet my niece and nephew!!  One lovely part of not having a job is that when my mom asked me to go out to Colorado with her, I could go!  We spent four days near Denver helping to take care of my less than two month old twins.  It has been a long time since I've held or fed a baby.  I took my time and slowly got more comfortable with them.  They are so tiny and adorable!  I loved having the time to be there while they are still small.  We're so lucky to have them.  I cannot wait to see them again soon!

Nicholas

Ella

FIVE:
It feels good to be back.  Everyone in Austin  couldn't fathom why we would want to move back to Minnesota.  {It's cold}  But once we got here, we knew it was right.  Like I said, this is a strange transition time, but we are doing great with it.  Mike gets along great with my parents, we enjoy being home together during the day, and we're rediscovering this area of Minnesota.  Seeing friends and family reassures us that it's good to be back.  

Mom and Me

What have you been up to lately?

Linking up with:

Friday Favorites at Momfessionals

Oh, Hey Friday at September F A R M

High Five for Friday at Bright on a Budget

Friday Favorites at The Diary of a Real Housewife

Five on Friday at Hello! Happiness/A.Liz Adventures/Carolina Charm/The Good Life Blog

Friday Favorites at Life in Leggings

Friday Favorites at Meet @ the Barre

Exploring the World of Lip Color

Bold lip color has really blown up over the last couple of years.  The problem is, I have very thin lips and my Cupid's Bow area is majorly lacking in shape.  I've been struggling...like forever. 

I was a dancer until college and my mom, teachers, and eventually teammates were always perplexed by my lips.  I had no color in the peaks of my top lip, so if you put in lipstick, it looked ridiculous.  But otherwise my lips were so thin, the lipstick looked wierd anyway.  Not fun when you're already wearing obnoxiously bright makeup to make your face pop during performances. 

Fast forward to now.  I have been trying for 2-3 years to figure out lip color for me.  It's not something I actively work on, but it's definitely something I like to try.  It's been easiest for costumes or going out, because then I can wear an obnoxious red and not feel bad about it. 

Then, about a year ago, I got a full size balm stain in a Birchbox.  It looked a bit silly on me back then, but with recent personal style upgrade, I'm finally able to wear it.  DURING THE DAY!  And not look insane.  Insanely hot, maybe...

I generally like a stain more because if I'm going to wear lip color, I don't want to have to be reapplying it twenty times a day.  Annoying!  Mine is this Just Bitten Kissable balm stain by Revlon.  I love that it goes on as a balm and isn't too red or shiny.  I am able to wear it at work and reapply only once or twice during a whole day.  AND if I don't want to reapply, the stain just leaves my lips a little bit darker and fresh for the rest of the day.  EASY!

 

So here's a horrible picture to demonstrate my success.  The color definitely looks darker in person, but goes well with any outfit and is bold without being gaudy.  What do you think?

 

What are your go-to colors?  How do you find what works for you?  How do you feel about the bold trend?  

Juniper Tree Naturals - Etsy Review

I am really loving hearing about people getting in to essential oils.  My mom worked at a homeopathic doctor's office for a few years, and at the time, it really opened our eyes to traditional medicine.  We became more aware of the medicines and food we put in our bodies.  We always tried to look for an alternative option.

I'm not saying I'm a saint, that I don't pop excedrin, and that I don't eat ice cream!  We all put a lot of junk in to our bodies. But any step we can take to try to curb that, I'm all for it.  I'm not quite ready to take the dive in to essential oils, but I'm trying to make a little bit of progress in making better choices.

One smaller way to start is on the outside.  I am very lucky to team up with Laura from Juniper Tree Naturals to share some information and a review on her products.  Juniper Tree's products are all made without synthetic or harsh ingredients.  She notes that your skin is your largest organ and that we should take care of it!  Why slather on chemicals when you can nourish your skin with natural products?

Juniper Tree's Etsy Shop offers everything from soap to lotion to lip balm.  These products are all made with essential oils and natural products to nourish your body and help heal your mind.

They graciously sent me the Calm Soap and the Peppermint Body Lotion to review for you.  And I have to say, I was not disappointed!

The Peppermint Body Lotion smells fantastic and gives your skin a slight tingle when it's applied.  It smooths on easily and feels great when it soaks in.  It gives you a bit of a sheen right away, but soaks in quickly and leaves your skin feeling soft.  I have been using it as a hand lotion right before I go to bed.  The tingles and smells help me to fall asleep quickly and comfortably.  Love it!

I have also read that peppermint can help with headaches and migraines.  Sadly, I know how those feel.  I think next time, I'll try to apply some of this lotion on my temples and see if it helps.  I try to stay away from headache medicine, even though I suffer from them often.  Maybe this will be my new fix?!

My other treat was the "Calm" soap.  This is lavender with ylang ylang. Lavender is well known as a calming scent {hence, the name}.  I have this in our master bathroom and even Mike uses it!  I'm not normally a big bar soap user, but is it nice to have a little change in our life!

It takes a use or two to get it going in to a good lather.  After that, you are good to go!  It smells so great and makes your hands feel fresh and soft.  This soap also has seeds on the top, which helps to slough your hands and create a more robust lather.  This was Mike's favorite part.

I think we may have to incorporate bars in to our routine.  I think it would be fantastic to have a fun new scent in your guest bathroom when people come over.  Handcrafted soap, from small batches, what a treat!

Both of these products will not last long in our house, because we are using them up quickly!  We are very happy with them.  These product are a simple change that you can make to do better for yourself and your families.  They are handmade from natural products, and are extremely affordable.  Juniper Tree's products would be an excellent gift for a new mom, sister, roommate, coworker, anyone!

Luckily for us, we can get a free small sugar skin scrub!  

Use the code FREEFALL at checkout of any purchase 35$ or more.  {Order the small scrub along with your purchase and at checkout enter the code and it will take off the price of the small scrub!}  Start your holiday shopping early and support an artisan specializing in taking care of your bodies. 

 Please feel free to comment with your own reviews of her products!

Facebook | Etsy | Website

**Though I received these products for free, all opinions are my own.  Photography by Juniper Tree Naturals**

My Amazing Husband {A Positive Outlook on Marriage}

In the middle of March, my husband and I checked off six years on our calendar...of dating each other.  In the scope of things, it doesn't mean much, but to me, it's worth noting that we have been together for six years and are still massively in love with each other.  In honor of that, I thought I would do a little love-splurge blog so I can remember how fantastic my husband is when I read this thirty years from now!

The first time I was introduced to my now-husband, I thought he looked a bit nerdy and was not interested in the slightest.  When I saw him again two days later, it was love at second sight.  I was 18 and thinking "I hope he sits by me!".  And he did.  And that's where it all began.

For months, I took my friends along to hang out with him.  We went to parties, hangover breakfasts, and hung out a lot, but never alone.  After a few months, I didn't know what to do (I was already in a two year long serious relationship), my two best friends at the time pulled the tough love card.  It was obvious to them what the right decision was, and after a few agonizing days, I made the decision to end my relationship and start to pursue a different type of relationship with my now husband. 

The short story is:  we started dating, got married a little more than 4 years later, and will celebrate two years of being Mr. & Mrs. this June. 

And it's AMAZING.  My husband truly treats me like a princess.  He will rub my feet any time I need it.  He gives me strong hugs when I need them.  He wipes the toilet seat.  He does the COOKING (I know, I'm super lucky!).  He tells me when I look like a grandma.  He lets me go out with my girlfriends.  He listens to me complain.  He is extremely patient with my sometimes horrible and negative attitude.  He is a techy man guru and can fix anything from a Lola-chewed cord to a squeeky wheel.  My friends love him (and one is waiting on cloning him).  He has a fantastic fashion eye and I love shopping with him.  He loves my curly crazy hair.  He researches the heck out of something before we buy it, and it's always worth it.  He will watch girly movies when necessary.  He loves to try new things and take me out of my comfort zone.  Did I mention he's a great chef?!  He always laughs, despite the fact that I am uber-non-hilarious.  He pushes me to be a better person.  He is not a "gamer".  He co-hosts parties when he would rather be in bed.  He helps fold the laundry.  He's a good driver.  He encourages me.  He is successful and passionate about his work.  He never gets tired of me.

I feel very lucky to have found my man at the age of 18.  I really can't imagine the things I would have done in the past six years without him.  Likely, they would not have been great things and I definitely would not be the person I am today.  I give a lot to our relationship and I love the fact that we can spend a whole weekend together and never get tired of each other.  We can spend a Sunday in bed watching television and eating waffles and enjoy every minute together.  In fact, we generally spend a lot of time together and I still love it!

I am 100% still falling for this guy.  My husband.  I am incredibly satisfied with what my life has become as Mrs. Olson and truly would not trade it for anything!

Make sure you are marrying the man of your dreams.  The man that will always comfort and encourage you.  The man that will do the laundry when you're sick.  The man that will make the kids breakfast so you can sleep in.  The man that will take you to Italy for your birthday.  You get the jist...do not settle for someone less than your dream guy.  He is out there, I promise.   

App Alert - Offer Up

I came across a sponsored ad on my Facebook a week ago Sunday.  You know, those annoying ones that are in your news feed for no good reason.  I actually scroll through them sometimes, because you never know what you'll find. 

 

For some reason, I downloaded this app called OfferUp.  Just to check it out.  We have a few things in our house that we've been wanting to get rid of, such as extra furniture.  So I decided to put a few things for sale.  In a week and two days, I've made over $200 by selling things that we no longer need!

 

It has been a quick and easy experience and all good so far.  You simply post one picture, a small description, your price, and general location.  From there, your item is "offered up" to the homepage that is shown below.  You can select categories to search or just scroll endlessly until something catches your eye.

 

 

When you find something you like, you message the person in the app and offer them a price.  From there, you make plans where/when to meet and exchange.  It is so nice not having to give out your phone number or deal with the giant mess of Craigslist.  For me, it has been a lot easier and much more successful.

 

I haven't bought anything from the app and likely won't, but if you are looking for something in particular, or something for a good deal, it's definitely worth checking out!  I have been really lucky that my things have been catching people's eyes.  Now, our house is starting to look a bit bare in some places!  Mike even had to pull an old table to use as a bedside table.  Oops!

 



 

Check out this app and let me know what you think!  PS- I was not in any way compensated for this review, I have just had good luck and wanted to share :)

Why It Pays to Complain

You know what I hate?  When people don't do their jobs correctly.  Or when products don't work the way they're supposed to.  When you don't get what you paid for.  Or when you have to pay secret fees for things you never knew about. 

This gist of this is that I don't like spending money that I don't need to.  And I will speak up to make sure that doesn't happen.  My motto has always been "It never hurts to ask!".  This can serve you anywhere from getting a discount on shoes to getting a babysitter for a night out.  You just have to ask people.  The worst that can happen is that someone says "no", and you're back right where you started. 

I tend to be pretty outspoken in my life and I feel like it has served me pretty well over the years.  Yes, it can sure get me in trouble some times, but generally, when I have asked for something, it has turned out well.

The most common form of this, that I'm sure you can all relate to, is haggling with your cable provider to give you a discount or extra channels, or you'll LEAVE them.  More often than not, IT WORKS!  Right?  So why not take that approach to more things in your life.

• When we moved in to our townhome in Minnesota, they wanted a $500 pet deposit for our little bunny, Lola.  Since she is a harmless, caged, litter box trained baby girl, we asked if they would waive that ridiculous amount.  And they did.
• I recently purchased a bike.  You can read more in detail at that link.  This bike was brand new, with a few scratches.  Most people would have walked out of the store paying full price...NOT ME!  I asked for a discount, and when I was offered 10% off, I haggled and got 15%. 
• If you see clothes (even if they are already on clearance) with stains/markings/crooked zippers, ask for a discount!  Usually the employees can give 10-15 percent off for such things.  Might as well save a few bucks!
• When it comes to food and beauty products, many have a money back guarantee.  Use their websites or phone lines to let them know if you are unhappy.  Usually they will send you coupons/vouchers to try something else.  We recently complained about our Timothy Grass for Lola being so cruddy she wouldn't even eat it.  They sent us a coupon for five pounds of free food...that's a lot for a bunny!
• As mentioned above, phone and cable companies will usually give you some perks or discounts if you say you will leave the company (after a few months, of course). 
• A few months ago, we found a cat we wanted to adopt.  After our landlord stated we would pay a non-refundable deposit, an additional deposit, AND pet rent.  I said heeeck no.  We asked if he would consider only one of those because she's just a little bunny and we are great tenants.  After stopping by our house and realizing such, he said we could get a cat.  (We decided not to at that time, but point proven!)
• Ask for a raise!  Provided you are a good employee and in good standing, it is okay to ask for a raise at an appropriate time.  Have information supporting your request and be prepared to pitch yourself.  The worst they can say is no, but at least you tried!

At least you tried.  In most situations, you don't have anything to lose by asking.  Companies always want to know what they are doing well and what they are doing wrong.  It's our job to speak up and let them know.  And of course, get a little benefit out of it for ourselves ;)  I have never had a negative outcome from complaining or speaking up.  Use customer service to you advantage and get the best for your money!

Coffee Concentrate - Amazing New Discovery!

Yesterday, I had to stop at the grocery store on the way home.  Little Lola was all out of vegetables!

Of course, I strayed from my list a little bit and picked up a few extra things.  I did pretty dang good, though. 

My two brag-worthy finds?

A six-pack a Klondike Bars (Reese's) for about 13 CENTS.  I believe they were $1.63 and had a $1.50 coupon right on the door for me to use.  SCORE!  Dang end-cap bargains.  I don't know that I've ever had a Klondike Bar...but when Mike asked what I got him, I said "What Would You Dooooo?"  And he goes, "You got me a Kit-Kat Bar?" 

Nope.  Try again. 

Now...on to the reason you're here.  COFFEE!! 

Whenever I open one of the small refrigerators at work, the bottom shelf is taken up by a 33 ounce bottle of this:

I got to try some of it at an ice cream social a few months ago.  It was the mocha flavor poured over dairy-free ice cream made with coconut milk - NadaMoo, if you're interested.  The coffee was good, but was combined and melted with the ice cream, so we didn't get the full effect. 

Yesterday, there was a small end-cap cooler filled with smaller versions of the above concentrate.  There were also ready-to-drink glass bottles as well (similar looking to those Starbucks drinks in glass bottles). 

After reading the concentrate labels, I discovered I could get 4 servings of DELICIOUS coffee for less than six bucks with the concentrate.  And all I had to do?  ADD WATER. 

Are you kidding me?  How is this not a phenomenon?!  I just taught you how I was making my own iced coffee at home.  Now as of yesterday, I've stepped in to a whole new realm. 

This morning I put together the most delicious coffee ever in about one minute just before stepping out the door. 

In your to-go mug add:

• Ice
• 1/2 Cup Concentrate (I purchased the Vanilla)
• 1/2 Cup Water
• Splash of creamer/milk (SPLASH ONLY!  This coffee is delectable on its own, but Mike's sis left some creamer at our house, so I suppose I'll attempt to use it up) 
• Shake
• ENJOY!

You can also drink this hot, but as mentioned in my last post, I'm digging iced coffee right now.  THIS COFFEE IS DELICIOUS.  It tastes ridiculously fresh.  The hint of vanilla in my mug is so light and refreshing.

This is a local company started by two neighbors in 2010.  I can certainly attest to the fact that they have done it right and done it well!! 

From their website: "We custom roast every ounce of Chameleon Cold-Brew for more than 16 hours using only 100% organic, Fair Trade, hand-selected Central and South American Arabica beans and purified Texas Hill Country spring water."

Well done, gentlemen.  They are absolutely hitting the nail on the head.  I am going to sing their praises to anyone who will listen.  My hubby can be sort of a coffee snob and I have no doubt that he will have his mind blown this morning - I texted him the recipe when I got to work.  Just took another swig...SO GOOD!  I am currently enjoying my mug at the front desk, no telling what clients will hear my amazing review! 

Oh, and don't forget to check out their recipes and website. 

Piggyback Couseling

I got a lot of great feedback on my Positivity post, which is great, because I have more to share!  I've been helping a few friends through some hard times lately.  I have always considered myself a person who gives good advice (even though, as you all know, it's SO hard to take your own advice at times).


So here are my tips and thoughts :)  How have I gotten to this positive attitude after so long?  Two things are my new mantra:  It could be worse, and Let it go.  Those two phrases are getting me through pretty much everything right now, it works, I promise!  The first part I talked a lot about in my last post.  The very situation that you are in that is upsetting you/ruining your LIFE...could be worse.  Always.  This applies to your money situation, friend situation, work frustrations, ev.er.y.thing.  The second part is something more recent for me.  I have always been a person who is too empathetic and takes other people's problems into my realm and lets them eat me up.  I let THINGS I CAN'T CHANGE upset me.  WHY??  That doesn't make sense people, come on.  I know others do that, too.  It's crazy!

Now, I'm all for changing yourself and becoming a better person.  Trying new things, meeting new people.  It's a great thing.  Keeps you interesting and interested.  There are always new things to see and learn.  BUT there is change that I am against.  I cannot stand when people change themselves for others!  I admit, I act a bit different depending if I am with my high school friends (Katie, I just shit myself) or college friends (OMG I can't believe we stayed up until 5am taking shots), but I am still ME.  I am 23 years old and have a good idea of who I am.  Why would I change that for "friends"?  If you do not like the way that I am, then move on.  Let it go.  Let them go.  People need to accept YOU and you should not have to censor or change yourself to be with them.  I really feel like this is an issue for a lot of people I know.  It's time to make that change.  A good change.  The right change.

You should not have to work to have fun with or trust your friends.  It shouldn't be an effort.  Just be you.  The only effort I have been making with my friends is to see them more.  And I hope they are noticing.  I've been driving around the state and around the twin cities.  And it is SO WORTH IT.  Now is our time to have fun and be us, without school/kids/blah in the way.  We are not as busy as we all think we are, come on!  There is always time for good conversation with friends and I am hoping my friends and your friends will take the path of making time for the ones who are important to you.  And deciding who is not worth that effort.  It's time to stop dragging old friends along just because you've been friends forever or whatever stupid reason you use to validate it.  Not worth it.  Be smart and decide who is worth it to you.

Who is worth it to you??

Can You: Wear Wedding Colors When You're Not in the Wedding Party?

When planning to attend weddings, I know I always get the bug to go shopping for a new dress.  It's the perfect excuse, right?  I'm not a person who shops colors by the season or the trend, I just look for something I like.  At a discount, of course!

I have a wedding coming up and stifled the urge to shop for a new dress.  So now I'm bound to shopping my closet for what I'm going to wear.  AND I'll obviously have to pick out what Mike will wear as well.  I currently have a dress in mind for its length and coverage...but it is in the same color palette as the wedding party. 

IS THAT ALLOWED?! 

Hubby was once "scolded" for wearing a dress shirt in the same theme as the wedding party.  I guess the thought never really crossed my mind?  So now I'm paranoid.  Of course, you don't always know the palette of a wedding before you attend, but if you happen to...should you avoid those colors?

The Knot:  Says there is no definite rule on this, but to ask the bride if you feel comfortable.  Commenters had mixed responses saying either it's no big deal or that it would upset them.

Wedding Bee:  Commenters on the board here seemed to have no problem with guest wearing the same color.

What do you think?  Please let me know what to wear!

BONUS:  Do you coordinate outfits with your significant other for more formal events??

:::UPDATE:::  I ended up wearing the dress that coordinated colors.  I didn't blend in too much because of the bridesmaid's jewelry and shawls.  It made for great pictures as well!  My tip:  if you are going to coordinate, make sure that your dress isn't too formal.  If you actually look like you're trying to be a bridesmaid, that might upset some people.  I think it's a good idea to keep the bride in mind.  If you think it will bother her, don't do it!

Duluth Trip - Bluegrass Style

Last weekend, we finally made it up to Duluth to visit Mike's friend Ryan, and his wife Brittany.  We usually do concerts with them at least once a year and it had been a long time.  We all got tickets for the Atmosphere & Trampled by Turtles show at Bayfront Festival Park.  If you have a chance to take in a show at this outdoor venue, definitely do it!  Although it was a bit mucky from rain, it was a huge, beautiful venue.

We started our day with lunch at Fitger's, at the recommendation of my friends.  I had the pub style wild rice burger, and Mike had the elk burger.  I chose to have the root beer since it was before noon.  SO GOOD.  I love root beer...it's really weird, I know. (I had two beer kegs and a root beer keg at my graduation party.)  I would highly recommend the wild rice burgers.  Also, GET THE FRIES!  They are so freaking good.

After lunch, we surprised my friends by meeting them at Bent Paddle Brewing Company.  This is a super new brewery and they just opened their tap room.  Delish beer, good vibe, and friends!

We headed to Ryan's place to drop off our stuff, and the music began.  We saw Charlie Parr at the Rhubarb festival, Atmosphere and Trampled at the Bayfront show, and two bands, including Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank at The REX.  Dinner was awesome grilled burgers, and hand cut french fries on Ryan's deck.  Deeeeeelish!  This was an awesome day filled with banjos, harmonicas, beer, and other good stuff.  I linked the bands, and I suggest you check them out!  It was a great Duluth experience, as the music scene there is insane.  Thanks to Ryan and Brittany for giving us the full 

she-bang!

                                           

Sunday we ate at Northern Waters (I do NOT recommend the lamb), walked out on the pier, indulged in mini donuts, and the sun was shining!  On the way back to our car, we made the best discovery ever.  An Olive Oil Bar, The Rustic Olive.  Yep.  We are olive oil fans, and have been looking for some new, good, balsamic vinegar.  This is like a winery, but for olive oil and balsamic vinegar.  There are taps, you sample, and it's freaking amazing.  YOU MUST GO HERE.  You will never think of olive oil the same.  And fun fact: the olive oil you're probably using is old and bad for you.  

We stopped at Third Street Bakery on our way out of town.  GO TO THIS BAKERY.  It is freaking amazing and super cheap.  Their cookies were out of control, and we got a six-pack for only 6$!  And they are made with local, good for you ingredients.  

Duluth was a fun time, and I'm glad we finally made the trip.  We just hit a few of the big things, and hopefully next time we can do some more things off the beaten path.  Thanks to everyone who offered suggestions!  Duluth has a lot to offer, and it's not too far away from the twin cities.  Make a fun weekend out of it!

Currently

I need a place to splurge everything that's going on in my mind.  So I'l taking on the popular "Currently" style for today.  Feel free to comment what you're up to, I'd love to hear!

CURRENTLY, I'm - 
Craving - a medium Dairy Queen Blizzard with chocolate ice cream and tons of cookie dough.
Wishing - my school loans (and the hubby's) would disappear.  I take pride in paying them off, but DANG it would be nice if they would *poof* BE GONE!
Cleaning - little Lola's litter box.  Having a potty trained bunny is the coolest thing, except when you have to clean it out!
Watching - Season 4 of Gilmore Girls.  A friend borrowed me all of the season to keep me busy for the summer.
Reading - "Summer House" by Nancy Thayer.  It's a free book my mom found, and although I'm not super in to it, I'm liking the summer feel. 
Planning - every weekend from now until August!  With three weddings, a bachelorette party, a family reunion, and a family vacation, summer is looking busy.
Considering - building a house.  We have not looked at a house in three weeks and are beginning to consider building.  It's not our first choice...does anyone have any advice?!

Drinking - Bolthouse Farms Green Goodness.  I've been loving me some fruit lately, why not take some extra down in liquid form?!
Missing - college days when your friends were all in one place and you had fewer responsibilities and worries.  Keeping in touch is hard as you grow up.  Do you best to be a good friend and keep your friends close!
Loving on - one of the family cats that had been missing for three days.  He came trotting up the driveway howling and starving today.  I think he was searching for his brother who is still missing. Cross your fingers he comes home!

Coveting - manageable hair styles.  I would love to chop my hair super short, but with so much curl, the growing out process would be horrendous.  Lame hairstyle forever...that's me!
Sharing - my WalMart $1 Flash-Tats.  They are super cute and last forever!  Check them out in the jewelry section...so worth it for summer!

Celebrating - my niece and nephew being off of oxygen, gaining weight, getting a new house soon, and getting a visit from grandma & grandpa (my parents) next week!
Alright y'all...there's the best and the worst of my current mind.  Sometimes it's nice to write everything down and take note.  Summer has so much to offer and I'm doing my best to make it memorable.  Luckily, I've got my guy by my side to always keep things in perspective.  I am seriously lucky!

Start Your Own "Spark File" {Thought Storage}

My morning commute is only 10 miles, and it takes 40 minutes.  It's pretty maddening.  But now Mike works from home, and I get to drive the CR-V which has Bluetooth audio.  And so I've come to enjoy podcasts...

My favorite is RadioLab, but I like it so much that I'm now listening to episodes from 2011!  So I had to find something else to listen to and have gone back to Stuff to Blow Your Mind.  I definitely am not as in to it, but it's giving me something else to listen to. 

This morning I was listening to Steven Johnson:  How We Got to Now.  It talks about innovations and how we got things in our "modern world".  I wasn't too taken in by it, but the one thing that stuck out was when he talked about his SPARK FILE. 

This is a document that he has been working in for almost ten years.  Whenever he gets an idea or has an interesting thought, he writes it down in the document.  It's not organized, and is now over 70,000 words, which is longer than his longest book.  But WHY?

He is a believer in the idea that great ideas often come from hunches.  A great idea generally doesn't present itself in full form.  Sometimes you need to come back to something to fully develop it.  Or two ideas can make a connection, and then you're off and running.  This is why he is constantly writing down ideas. 

He said that he comes back to it about every few months and reads the whole thing.  That is where some ideas blend together, become more prominent, or just stay dormant.  His Spark File has lots ideas for books, articles, speaking ideas, etc.  He says that "The key is to capture as many hunches as possible".  You can read more about it here.

I think this is a great idea for anyone to use!  I'm going to start writing down blog post ideas, small business ideas, clever names for blogs/businesses/people, tips that come up at work, vacation ideas, etc.  Even though I don't see myself as an entrepreneur or a business owner, it will be great to read through my Spark File and see if anything new blossoms!  You never know what may come about when you're reading your own creative thoughts. 

Think of it as a dream journal for your conscious hours. 

It might also be cool to read back your file from years ago and see how your mind was brewing up ideas.  Some thoughts just become unimportant because you are focusing on other things at the time.  You never know when the timing might be right and then you're ready to pursue one of your ideas that you wrote down eight months ago! 

ANYONE can do this!  Start a Word document, an Evernote, a physical journal, or whatever you can keep close.  Write down your budding ideas.  Re-read it every few months or every six months.  Take the time to breathe it in and appreciate the corners of your mind that may have ended up on the pages. 

This is something simple that everyone can do.  Use it to better yourself and enjoy it!  I can't wait to get mine started.  Let me know what you think!

Being a Grandparent

Grandparents.  I recently have come to love mine even more than I always have.  I don't quite know what prompted it, but I will share a few examples below.  They are so important to me and I am absolutely terrified of losing any of them any time soon.

I am so lucky that my grandparents lived 5 miles in either direction growing up.  I spent days, weekends, and I'm sure even weeks with my grandmas.  Cleaning, listening to Frank Sinatra and Patsy Cline, shopping, gardening, watching movies, napping, and being spoiled.  I sent my paternal grandmother a Mother's Day card thanking her for raising 10 wonderful kids who have made my life great.  My mom and her mom were here for Mother's day, and I gave them each a card, bringing them both to tears, telling my grandma that even though sometimes her kids are brats (more on that later), she is amazing and did a fantastic job raising them.

My paternal grandma is currently in a rehabilitation home doing physical therapy after she fell.  In the last year, she suffered several strokes, sold her home, and moved into town in an assisted living facility.  This has been a lot of changes, and she takes them in stride, with a smile.  Mind you, she's been doing everything on her own since my grandpa Wendell (miss you gpa) passed away in 1999.  This is the same grandma that graduated from Bethel, worked as a nurse, and raised 10 kids in a blended family.  She is AMAZING.  Not to mention the cutest shorty ever.  Here she is below at our wedding with me and her oldest son Gary.  Presh.  I just love her (both of them actually).  So lucky that she is a fighter, independent, and still sassy.  I love you, Gramma B.

This past weekend (Memorial Day), Mike and I went to my maternal grandparent's cabin near Cushing, MN.  We figured it out that we hadn't been there in 5 years, since our first summer together.  Wow, we've come a long way!  It was just my grandparents and us.  When was the last time you spent a weekend alone with your grandparents?  It was fantastic.  You could tell they loved having us there.  We got to go to the Lion's Club pancake breakfast, catch a few sunnies off the dock, grill steak, and just chat.  Mike also got to learn cribbage from the master, my grandpa.  That was interesting!  Needless to say, we had a great time chumming with them.

Me and Grandma on Mother's Day

The one thing that scared me...they talked about having a lot of friends and classmates pass away in the last few months.  I can't imagine life without my grandparents...or one without the other.  Which brings me to my last point:

TREASURE THE TIME AND RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR GRANDPARENTS!

In the past few years, an aunt and cousins have basically dropped off the face of the planet when it comes to our family.  *If they are reading and would like to talk to me about bringing it up, please do, I would love to hear the reasoning.*  My grandparents do not get to see their grandkids or first great-grandchild - for no apparent reason.  They live less than 30 minutes away.  They don't come to holidays.  My grandma put Christmas presents on their doorstep.  My aunt is a PASTOR!  Practice what you preach, sistah.  She comes to town to see other people, and drives right past my grandparent's (her parent's) house.  Do you know what it's like to have to comfort your crying grandmother because her own child cares more about someone else in town?  Given my last impromptu encounter with my cousin, they are under some sort of orders to not communicate with my grandparents.  They are the only grandparents the kids have living.  PLEASE tell me why you would disconnect yourself from the precious grandparents you have?!  (End rant. I've been holding that in for months.)

I just don't get it.  I love my grandparents.  No person could tell me not to.  Grow up.

Take the time to send your grandparents a card or shoot them a call.  You never know how much it will mean to them.  We don't know how much longer we get to keep them, show the love!

Review of: Mood Indigo {The Movie}

Have you ever heard of French novelist Boris Vian's cult novel, Mood Indigo?  I have not read the book, but I do remember seeing movie posters for the film adaptation by Michel Gondry last year {2014}.  The beautiful colors and love story made me remember it when we came across it on Netflix last weekend. 



Image from Google

The weather here has been wretched, so we snuggled up in bed (because the main floor of our house is FREEZING - never get slate floors) to watch this quick 90 minute flick.  Set in Paris, with French subtitles, you're in for a unique treat. 

We had no idea what we were getting ourselves in to.  In the first 15 minutes of the film, your mind is whirling around trying to process everything that is going on.  Everything is moving {literally}, you can't figure out the relationships, and the story is quite bizarre to begin with. 

I'm telling you, stick with it.  This movie is SO UNIQUE.  The actors are actually pretty great, and the movie itself keeps you interested by having a style I've never seen before.  I don't even know how to describe it.  You will be quite mind-blown.  It is Wes Anderson-like, but with more of a beaming story - with some animation, and almost Claymation looking parts.  The relationship is adorable to follow, and the whole setting/home/story is fascinating. 



This is an actual scene from the movie.  It gives you an idea of how funky it is.

Taken from Amazon:  "The story is simple: Boy meets girl; boy marries girl; girl falls ill on their honeymoon with a water lily on the lung, which can only be treated by being surrounded by flowers; boy goes broke desperately trying to keep his true love alive."



Image from Google

Sounds so normal, right?  Did you catch the "water lily on the lung" part?  See?  Now you have to watch it.  It's three feet long! 

I would definitely recommend checking out this movie.  Like I said, it's like no movie I've even seen before and worth the 90 minutes to try something new.  Just make sure you're in the mood to read subtitles! 

Ladies, Let's Get Real

WARNING:  This post will be graphic.

I want to talk about menstruating.  And this is going to be good because I am currently in the lovely company and it's just freaking fantastic.  But first, let's talk about our lovely friend PMS.  Whatever idiot male said a few years back that PMS is not real needs to be slapped.  I don't turn into a different person because it is fun!

Luckily for Mike, I have been able to turn my emotions from psychotic-raging-a-hole to whiny-needy-child.  Everything makes me whiny.  I like to moan about my back, that I'm hot, what's for dinner, I'm bored, whatever.  Sometimes I actually just say "whiiiine" because I can't think of anything to whine about but feel the need to do so.

I personally feel special because many of my symptoms last from PMS all the way through my visitor...NOT.  For a few days now, I've wanted to eat everything in sight.  This month, I've been pretty good at controlling myself.  But, I literally asked Mike if we could eat only chocolate (currently wanting Nutella) and Doritos this weekend.  That's what I'm craving.  A whole bag of Doritos, and Nacho Cheese at that, even though I really love Cool Ranch.  And as I write that, why aren't they Cooler Ranch anymore?  I digress... I cannot freaking imagine what I'm going to be like pregnant if I'm already this bad.  Last night I indulged on dark chocolate, and tonight some Haagen-Das that Mike purchased "on a whim" at CVS.  Smart man, I tell you.

My lower back has been hurting for a week, which is super uncomfortable in my crappy chair at work.  And a few days ago the cramps began.  At some ridiculous hour this morning I was woken up with terrbile cramps, so I chugged some water, downed some pills, and tried to fall asleep.  Normally I would use my heating pad, but um..it's summer.  {HOT.  sweaty.  Crampy.  Eww.}  Again with the whining.

I took IcyHot to work and popped pills all day.  It's not fun to be at work and feel like a small hooved animal is running a freaking marathon in your abdomen.  I feel like an old woman.  When does this END?  Oh yeah, never!  Until I'm actually an old woman.  And my mom and her monthly friend are still kicking so there's no end in sight for me.  Joy. 

I will breeze past the fact that sleeping is uncomfortable, I despise going to the bathroom while this shenanigan is going on, I drink less water because I'm trying to avoid the bathroom, I wear less attractive undies, the trash can is even less desirable than usual, and several other disgusting things that I will never get over.

The joys of womanhood.

Please tell me I'm not alone in this.

Review of: Jeremy Messersmith Live {featuring John Mark Nelson}

I love Jeremy Messersmith.  He's quirky, cute, poetic, interesting, and his voice just makes me smile.

Mike and I got $10 tickets to see him earlier this week.  Yes, only 10 DOLLARS!  He played at 7th Street Entry {part of First Avenue}, and somehow was both of our first times there.  Capacity is 250, with a sunken "dancefloor" in front of the stage, and the rest is a bit elevated above the stage.  A small, intimate setting with lots of history.  Being short, I snagged a spot along the back wall where they have a sort of outcropping on the wall where you can sit/stand.

I always get angry at tall people at concerts...then I realized...Mike is one of them!

We arrived just after doors at 7:45-ish and saw the setlist:  John Mark Nelson @ 8:30, The Starfolk @ 9:30, and Jeremy @ 10:30.  This was a weeknight.  I'm normally in bed by 10:30!  Not to mention, I had no desire to be on my feet for 4 hours.  We considered ditching since the tickets were only 10$, but I realllly like Jeremy Messersmith, so we toughed it out.

John Mark Nelson is only 19 years old, local, and has a really smooth voice.  He played solo, had a good, light-hearted attitude, and generally impressed me.  He is soon releasing his music video via MTV, which is super exciting for a young, Minnesota artist!  I love local music, and hearing that he is getting some recognition is fantastic.  Definitely check him out.

Speaking of recognition, Jeremy Messersmith got signed to Glassnote Records probably over a year ago.  When I heard, I was so excited for him!  But according to his not-so-nice comments during this show, it seems he is frustrated with the whole situation.  He's been working on a new record for years, and the label keeps kicking songs back at him.  How discouraging to have your creative process stifled by "The Man".

In any case, his set was very entertaining.  I have seen him three times now, and he never disappoints.  First of all, he started with probably my favorite song:  Violet!  He also had live cello, which melts me.  Any live strings makes a show better!  He had a nice mixture of old songs from The Silver City and The Reluctant Graveyard, as well as some new ones, not yet performed or recorded.  Some of the new songs were great {one of them was something like "I need a hitman for my heart, loved that one}, some were a little too much of a "ditty"{"I wanna be your one-night stand}.

He is a great poet, which is why I appreciate his work, but I need something a little more exciting at a live show!  It will be interesting to see what his eventually new album sounds like.  If his label is giving him this much trouble, I am anxious to hear it.  In the meantime, I suggest you go listen to The Reluctant Graveyard.  He has an amazing mix of jazzy, upbeat, melodious songs.  You will enjoy!

His drummer sang in the harmonies, his guitarist ripped some solos, and the cellist also played keyboards and bass guitar, as well as backup vocals.  I envy talented people!  I really love a group that can shine at more than one instrument, and ANY drummer who can harmonize while playing boggles me.  SO much talent.  LOVE.

Jeremy's encore was him playing guitar and belting out a few solo songs.  He had to keep pushing his glasses up his nose,  has the vintage hairstyle, and is altogether a character.  I am obviously a fan.

I will touch on The Starfolk.  This is Jeremy's guitarist, his wife, and some others.  NOT A FAN of them.  First of all, the couple had the same haircut...disturbing.  And the wife does not have a good voice.  My suggestion...don't waste your time.  I was very unimpressed and frankly tried to block the sound out.  {Mind you, at this time it was late, I was already irritated and tired.}  Maybe that had something to do with it, but personally, I will not be checking them out again.

Moral of the story:  go listen to John Mark Nelson, see a Messersmith show, and embrace local music!