Snow Day

It has been such a glorious and lazy Saturday. I woke up to snow already falling, and it's been coming down pretty steady ever since. Bagheera and I have been surfing social media, watching Anthony Bourdain's Places Unknown on Netflix and eating junk food . . . all in our PJs. I recently purchased a book called A Beautiful Mess Photo Idea Book, and it's exactly what it sounds like. It was created by the lovely ladies from A Beautiful Mess, an online blog that I recently discovered (I'm a little late on the train, I guess) and love! It's made me want to fall in love with my camera all over again, and experiment with it in ways I was too afraid before. Although it's been snowy outside, I've been trying to keep my mind busy inside, and when Anthony's wit was getting to me, I stepped away from my computer and started snapping some pictures. So, I'm going to try to pair my pictures with some things to keep you occupied on a snowy day inside. Or, to just update on the things I've been filling my little bit of extra time with (while also showing you my living space too).

Sort through your magazines. If you're like me, then you have piles of magazines that need looking through and gotten rid of. I have a hard time parting with them because there are always so many useful things that I think, "Oh, but one day, I'll want to refer back them for X project or Y recipe." And maybe one day I will, but that's why I have files for those sorts of things. I don't need the whole entire magazine, ads and all. So, it's always nice when I find the time to read through, and rip out the pages with the delicious-sounding recipes or interesting decorating ideas, and then discard the rest.

Catch up on social media. I seem to be finding more and more blogs or YouTube channels to follow lately, and then always find that I'm just too busy to keep up with them. My weekends are usually the time I have to catch up with the blog posts or the videos, and it's always so enjoyable. I like to have a warm mug of tea handy, and a cozy sweatshirt to snuggle into. Some of my favorite blogs/YouTubers lately have been: (1) Maiedae, a creatives-driven website run by two best friends who are also new moms. I find their pictures, print shop, and posts to be absolutely beautiful. (2) A Beautiful Mess, along the same lines (and I think the inspiration to) Maiedae. (3) PostSecret, my ritual Sunday morning reading. (4) Domestically Blissful, a blog full of vegetarian and vegan recipes run by a former classmate. Her recipes sound delicious and her pictures and advice are lovely. (5) Jenna Marbles because who doesn't like a little bit of outrageousness and laughter? (6) John Oliver, originally a part of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, he broke away to make his own faux-news show/youtube channel. I love his brutal honesty, but also his cynical style of delivering news is fantastic. (7) Jaclyn Hill for when I want to learn new make-up techniques from da best. Seriously, I love her personality and her make-up styles are out of this world. (8) Lastly, Makeup by Alli, another make-up channel. She's a bit more toned down and natural in her style. I like her aura and the looks she creates :)

Go Shopping. Online, of course. I recently purchased some great online things (and scoping out more as we speak). I picked up probably my favorite calendar of ALL time from Rifle Paper Co., and I already can't wait until the year is over so I can frame the pictures. They are SO gorgeous! I also got a little notepad that brightens up even the most dreary winter's day when I use it. The next thing wasn't an online purchase, but can be found there, and was picked up the last time I was at World Market, I found these adorable burlap star lights that just add the right kind of homeyness to my dining room. Click the links to access the goods! Other online shopping favorites are Target (they're having a great sale on beautiful weekend and tote bags from Faribault, a Minnesota Wool Mill company), Herschel Supply Co., and Lush.

Tend to your houseplants. My usual houseplant water day used to be Wednesday, and then I had classes on Wednesday nights. Then, it was Thursday. But then those ended up being one of my heavier homework nights. Then, it moved to Fridays, and sometimes it stays Fridays. However, most of the time, I find myself having the most time to actually prune, water, and turn/move my houseplants on the weekends. I pruned my orchid, and straightened up my succulents this afternoon, and felt incredibly accomplished afterward.

Clean your spaces. Only if you must! But sometimes the best way to ensure a complete day or evening of relaxation is to clean your space! I know if I'm trying to study or be productive, I have to clean whichever room I'm in to ensure the utmost amount of productivity. Even if what you're doing is anti-productive, being able to go to sleep that night knowing cleaning won't be waiting for you in the morning can sometimes be the best lullaby.

Cozy up and watch some movies! If all else fails, make some delicious food and have a movie marathon. That's always one of my favorite things to do on lazy weekends, but especially if it's snowing outside.

Whatever you decide to do, I hope you're staying warm, especially if you're on the East Coast where the snow just won't seem to let up. I keep on having such scandalous thoughts of spring - oh, to be able to open my windows and let the crisp new air with its beautiful freshness come and dance through my house. To see flowers poking through the soil, and spreading their gorgeous petals toward the sunshine. Shorts, skirts, and t-shirts without long sleeves! I cannot wait! Oh, and let's not talk about breaking out the flip-flops.

Here are some more photographs that I took from today (or another day *ahem* the first one below)! :)

Playing around with light, thanks my new photo book! Who thought I'd be messing around with the ISO settings, what?!

I love the fact that my house is old enough to have these radiators as a source of heat.
They're beautiful, and unique and add such a great vibrance to each room.

A sign a former student gave me as a thank-you gift. I have it hanging in my office.

Star Lights from World Market!

My cilantro is making a comeback :)

In my office - these signs were projects that my US History students did. They had to recreate WWII Propaganda posters, adding their own flair of creativity.

Happy adventuring! xoxo

Longhorns and Legacies

A week ago today, I was in the air on my way back from a wonderful trip to Texas. The high school I work at was taking their students to a basketball tournament at Southwestern Adventist University, and I happened to secure an extra ticket. I didn't go as a chaperone, a sponsor, or anything remotely affiliated with HVA, because, well, I had other intentions. Some of my students from JCA now attend Southwestern, the ticket price was cheap, and I just couldn't pass it up. I accurately managed to convince them I wasn't coming down, and then surprised everyone. It was such a perfect trip that filled my heart to the brim with love, laughter, and joy. I was able to see my students and old co-workers who still live in the DFW area. I left feeling incredibly fulfilled and like maybe, just maybe, I could make it through the rest of the school year.

While I was down, my old roommate and I took a day to explore a few things from Fort Worth and Dallas. We only had a day, so we didn't see a ton, but what I did see left me excited for a more in-depth experience the next time. I've been into downtown Dallas before, but not much in Fort Worth. So, here's my tips on what to see and do next time you find yourself in the DFW area!

Fort Worth
1. Go to the historic Stockyards. When my roommate, Melissa, told me about how LIVE Longhorns are taken down the center of the street in the Stockyards, I almost lost my mind. "Really?! Live cows down the center of the street?!" She looked at me as any person would look at a slightly deranged tourist and replied, "They're not cows, Ashley. They're Longhorns." This was such a cool thing to see! And it's exactly how it sounds. Of course, it's solely a touristy thing, but it was certainly an experience worth the time. Also around the Stockyards is Billy Bob's, which is Texas's largest honky tonk; The White Elephant Saloon, where the first major gun fight in Ol' Texas broke out and where some episodes of Walker, Texas Ranger was filmed; Leddy's Boots and Saddles, which literally has wall-to-wall selections of boots, saddles, suits, and other fine items; and, if you're lucky, you can drop in on a live auction - fast-talking auctioneers and all.

Loved photographing this guy! He had the perfect Texas accent, and was such a trooper! Totally ready for a photo-op!

2. Sundance Square. In the spring and summer, this beautiful city square seems idyllic for coffee and a nice evening with friends. The mural, the water, and the overall atmosphere makes you feel like you're not in the center of a huge metropolitan area, and gives you the opportunity to pleasantly recharge amid the bustle. According to Melissa, it's also a great place to sit and enjoy the live music you can hear wafting through the streets on summer evenings.

3. Fort Worth Water Gardens. These were beautiful! Even though the leaves were all off the trees, this would probably be the Central Park to my New York City if I lived in Fort Worth. The movement and the sound of rushing water is lovely. Visiting convinced me to work on my photography so that next time, I can get those wonderful shots of water rushing in a long-exposure picture. It's going to happen. Anyway, it's definitely worth a visit and from atop of its highest point, you can get some stunning panoramas of the city.

Dallas

1. Dealy Plaza & the Sixth Floor Museum. Even though I have mixed feelings about John F. Kennedy, seeing one of the most iconic places in US History is certainly worth the stop. It's almost breath-taking when you see the X's on the road where the gunshots were fired. Although we didn't go through the museum (which costs $16) due to time, just walking around the site and reading the plaques was fine by me. If you're into conspiracies, look for people standing on the sidewalks adjacent to the fatal X holding newspapers. They're ready and willing to tell you what they know about the assassination that took place there.

2. Meyerson Symphony Center and the Art District. Although I didn't go this time, in the years that I worked in Texas, it was an annual thing to go to the Meyerson for a concert (put on by our own students). It is a magnificent concert hall with fantastic acoustics and overall sound delivery. If you want to get dressed up and go to a symphony, do it here. It's amazing! Also, a place I will visit next time is Klyde Warren Park. Abundant with food trucks, an outdoor library and a dog park, it seems like the perfect green space in the midst of what can be a chaotic Dallas.

3. Pioneer Plaza. I only say this because I love Longhorns. I mean, I was literally squealing like a little girl in Fort Worth. These 49 bronze Longhorn statues are a dedication to Texas's lengthy "cowboy" history, and apparently one of the most photographed parts of the city. If you're not into that, I guess you could go to Arlington to check out the Dallas Cowboys' monstrosity of a stadium too . . .

Anyway, as I mentioned before, I had such a wonderful time in Texas. There are SO many things to do and see. I picked up a million and one pamphlets on the DFW area that I'll be sure to study for next time. There's the Dallas Zoo, and Six Flags Over Texas -- the list seems never-ending. And don't get me started on the cuisine! Exquisite barbecue (can exquisite even be used in front of barbecue?), live music, and quaint hole-in-the-wall coffee shops. The diversity is endless! If you're in the area, tell me what you experienced and loved, so I can add it to my list!

A glimpse at the Water Gardens.

Melissa, my former roommate and awesome tour guide.

Happy Adventuring! xoxo

French Macarons - A First

So remember on December 17, 2014 when I said I would update you soon on what my mom and I were doing for our Christmas tradition? Yeah, me either.

I do apologize for the absence! As I mentioned before, my mom and I spend at least a day or two every holiday season baking goodies for the families. This year, we decided to really push ourselves and attempt French Macarons. Surprisingly, we did really well. Our only hiccup was that our oven, when put on "bake" acted like it was on "broil" and only wanted to cook things from the top. After we solved this problem, things got progressively easier.

We used quite a few resources online to make the "perfect" French Macarons from blogs to youtube videos. I'll link the sources below! But beware before you take on a big project like this! Macarons are very time consuming until you can get a system down, and they're oh-so-delicate. It took us between 2-3 hours to make one batch of 24-28 cookies. Although they aren't that expensive to make, when you pay $2 or more for one cookie, you're really paying for all of the time and care that went into making them. It's certainly made me appreciate these delicacies on a totally new level!

We made three flavors: Mint Chocolate, Raspberry, and Salted Caramel. Our third flavor was originally going to be Eggnog to keep it more holiday-oriented, but the Salted Caramel ended up being my favorite one. We simply made an almond flavored cookie and then added Jif's Salted Caramel hazelnut spread in the middle. They were delicious!

Anyway, enjoy the adventure of creating French Macarons, if you decide to embark on such an adventure! It was certainly one for my mom and I!

Resources:
Food Nouveau - YouTube Video
Martha Stewart's Recipe
Popsugar on French Macarons

Why I Still Act Like a Tourist in DC.

As a life-long Maryland resident (except for those 3 years in Tennessee and those two years in Texas), I've visited DC so many times, I've lost count. While most of my excursions have taken place in or around the National Mall, I could probably drive my way to the Tidal Basin blindfolded at this point in my life. I've gone during the summer in the scorching heat, in the winter with the bitter cold, and during spring nights when the air is fresh and alive. I've visited for field trips, dates, personal fulfillment and even now as a faculty member chaperoning students.


But every time I visit, I almost always make sure to still act like a tourist. Why? Because I've realized something during my travels that has always made me sit back and scratch my head.

Locals act indifferent. Joggers run on the National Mall only paying attention to their breathing and the path in front of them, but I rarely see any of them looking around them at where they are, the architecture of the buildings, the groups of people they pass by. Drivers - well, they're a whole different breed. I understand you can't always take in the sights while dealing with DC traffic, but that doesn't necessarily dictate the attitude in which you handle it. Businessmen and women jet in and out of passersby, head down, walking to lunch or back to the office.

I find myself doing it too, but at home. How often have I gone up and down those roads to and from work without actually noticing what's going on in my periphery? I'm sure someone could be standing on a cow riding right beside the road some mornings and I would never even take a passing glance.

DC has always held this sense of wonder for me. It holds knowledge, resonates power, and gives off a vibe of not caring about anyone else. It's a memorial to great leaders, the men and women who have fought and died for our nation, and a promise of democracy and protection. So yes, every time I see the Capitol Building, rain or shine, scaffolding or not, you will see me with my camera in hand preparing to take a picture. I have 100 other pictures exactly like it, but those were from 100 different trips that I took. And I know, I know. Thomas Jefferson's face never changes as he looks out over the Tidal Basin, but that doesn't mean I don't want another snapshot of it.

I've become comfortable with the concept of looking like a tourist wherever I go (but travel safe - don't make yourself a huge target) because that means that I'm attempting to take in all of the beautiful things around me. It's a challenge to see the positives, to look at the same things from a different perspective or angle, and to avoid indifference. I visited DC a week ago today, and even though I could tell all the students where to go to find what they were looking for, no one else would have known by the way I was walking around - stopping to take pictures left and right, gawking at the way the buildings looked against the cool winter sky.

So, if anything, I want to challenge you, fellow travelers, to still act like a tourist. Whether it's in your hometown, any time you visit somewhere new, or even on your drive to work. Try to find something slightly different in your day-to-day. As a student once challenged me, "find the art in everyday." So, what are you doing to find the art today?

Happy adventuring! xoxo

P.S. These pictures are from my phone, sooo that explains the quality.

        

As promised, I'm going to give you my ultimate Holiday albums for this time of year. My preferred type of holiday music is more old school, with the big band and sultry voices of Frank, Dean, and Ella, but I'll also try to include other musical styles as well. Whether you're on the road to see your family for the festivities, hanging at home, or just taking a cruise around the neighborhood to look at Christmas lights, these are my top 10 Christmas albums that, without a doubt, put me in the holiday spirit.


10. Merry Christmas - Mariah Carey

You can't have a festive Christmas album without the big sound that Mariah Carey brings. Her voice is so fluid, rich, and warm. Paired with the atmosphere of Christmas, you can't go wrong. As well, after hearing "All I Want for Christmas Is You" on the radio so many times, there gets a point where you eventually just have to know what the rest of the album sounds like. Although she has a Vol. II out, I'm definitely talking about the original from 1994.

iTunes Price: $7.99


9. That's Christmas to Me - Pentatonix

Winners of NBC's Sing-Off in 2011, the A Capella group came out with a much-anticipated Christmas album. With the absence of instruments, their voices shine wonderfully. I had the privilege of listening to this album at least twice in one afternoon because Robby's sister had just gotten the album, and it certainly creates an upbeat atmosphere. For those that appreciate the capabilities of the human voice, this album is excellent an excellent addition. Some of my favorites are "White Winter Hymnal" and "Mary, Did You Know?" Also, their rendition of "Winter Wonderland" combines with Bob Marley's "Don't Worry, Be Happy" for a surprisingly festive blend of the two.

iTunes Price: $7.99


8. White Christmas - Martina McBride

This album carries a lot of nostalgia for me. My mother loves Martina McBride, so there were many a Christmas season where we listened to this collection while putting up the tree, and hanging the ornaments. Martina McBride, though usually associated with the Country music genre, provides a sound that everyone can certainly enjoy. It always made me want to cuddle up in cozy socks, with a cup of something warm, and have a good book to enjoy by a wonderful fire. Enjoyed best with snow falling!

iTunes Price: $9.99


7. Faith - Kenny G.

Oh, Kenny G. This album was released in 1999, and it's always been a favorite of mine. The way he plays the saxophone has gotten him worldwide fame, but in his holiday collection, it's such a classy blend of all the great holiday songs. I've always LOVED his Millennium Mix of Auld Lang Syne. It has radio recordings of all the great and terrible moments from the past century, and always gets me emotional. Also, the fact that he includes "We Three Kings" paired with "Carol of the Bells" is wonderful. I grew up singing the former in church and playing the latter in my high school bell choir (nerd alert). If you're a fan of a more classical take, then this album, if not already in your collection, certainly should be.

iTunes Price: $9.99


6. Christmas - Michael Bublé

Deemed as a modern-day Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé is, by now, a household name. His warmth, energy, and overall sound is exquisite. And, of course, his Christmas album is NO exception. Released in 2011, this is a definite must-have if you're into that old school, classic big band sound. He covers all of the classics, has guest appearances by Shania Twain, Thalia and the Puppini Sisters and even includes a Christmas Greeting on his deluxe album.

iTunes Price: $7.99/$14.99 (deluxe)




5. Oh For Joy - David Crowder Band

Bringing their eclectic folk-country-electric-rock style to a Christmas album, I've thoroughly enjoyed putting this arrangement of songs on over the holidays, especially when driving around light-seeking. It only includes 8 songs, but they are nothing short of upbeat and fun. From their first song, "Joy to the World," to their last, they add magic to the holiday songs you've been familiar with your whole life. I love it. They are a Christian band, and their songs represent the meaning of the holiday for us believers.

iTunes Price: $5.99


4. Noël - Josh Groban

Who can talk about a big sound without mentioning Josh Groban? His voice is phenomenal anyway, but paired with Christmas music?! Stop. As soon as his album came out in 2007, you can bet I was ALL over it. He has guest voices from Brian McKnight to Faith Hill, and all of those classic favorites. My personal favorites are probably the Scottish twist he adds to "Little Drummer Boy" and his deliverance of Ave Maria. Also, the beauty of including our troops and their Christmas messages to their families in "I'll be Home for Christmas" is an original tribute to the fact that this particular holiday song was written for our troops who were fighting in WWII. I love this album! It is always in my car around this time of year, and constantly on whenever the family and I go looking at Christmas lights. Just . . . I always need this album in my life. Always.

iTunes Price: $7.99


3. Ella Wishes You a Swingin' Christmas - Ella Fitzgerald

#1 - it's Ella Fitzgerald, #2 - it has that beautiful retro sound, and #3 - the album transports you back to a classy, much simpler time where everything was different. This is my go-to if I'm cleaning my house or having company over for a relaxing, intimate evening. If you enjoy those big band sounds, as I've alluded to a ton of times already, you honestly cannot go wrong with Ella. She has such a lovely, silky voice and jovial, holiday style. Another LOVE for the Christmas album.

iTunes Price: $7.99



2. Holiday For Swing! - Seth MacFarlane

First, let me start off by saying . . . WHAT. I'll be honest. I'm not a big Seth MacFarlane fan. I think his comedy is distasteful and his shows are offensive. To be honest, I don't pay much attention to him. But to have gone this long without knowing he can sing the way he can (I mean, I guess an effect of avoiding him) seems ridiculous. I originally heard him promoting his album on the Elvis Duran in the Morning Show without knowing it was him until they said his name. I drove the rest of the way to work in disbelief that he could make an album that rivaled the sounds of the Rat Pack. So again I say . . . WHAT. That day, I previewed it on YouTube and decided I needed it in my collection. What's cool and makes his album different is that he pays attention to holiday songs that don't get a lot of recognition and then adds his own twist to it while still including the big band element. It's awesome! He also has special guests Norah Jones and Sara Bareilles. I see you Seth MacFarlane, I see you.

iTunes Price: $7.99


1. Christmas with the Rat Pack - Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Dean Martin

I mean, were you surprised? This has almost always been the constant in my CD player in my car as soon as December 1 hits. I literally look forward to this album with stupid excitement as soon as November rolls around. I refuse to listen to Christmas music before Thanksgiving, but my goodness, it's almost like a drug the moment I hear Dean's voice come over the speakers singing "Let It Snow!" I melt every time. Also, "The Christmas Waltz" has to be one of my all-time favorite songs ever. I have yet to find someone who can sing it as well as Frank. And who doesn't want to start slow dancing with your special someone when Sammy Davis, Jr. sings "The Christmas Song"? C'mon now! It's just perfection. Perfection.

iTunes Price: $9.99


I hope you enjoyed my Christmas Tunes list! Clearly, I'm a little biased when it comes to my type of holiday music. Some honorable mentions would have to include Rend Collective - Campfire Christmas, Vol. I, Andrea Bocelli - My Christmas, and the holiday albums by Frank Sinatra, Nat "King" Cole, and Tony Bennett. Other artists that have a different sound, whose holiday albums I've also thoroughly found enjoyable are: James Taylor, She & Him, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Sufjan Stevens. An album with various female artists singing lovely Christmas songs is: Winter Songs. It's definitely worth a look into!

Happy Holidays! I hope you're able to spend them surrounded by loved ones, or at least people who make you feel warm inside! Later this month, I'm going to include what my mother and I are making for the holidays (since we always make something for our family) and my New Years' Eve plans. Stay tuned and Happy Adventuring! xoxo

October, Part II - Elk Neck State Park

The last weekend in October was homeleave, so my friends and I went camping. It was much needed for all of us, and who doesn't enjoy relaxing by a camp fire in an over-sized sweatshirt and roasting marshmallows?

We went to Elk Neck State Park in eastern Maryland. Robby's family is actually from that area, so while for the rest of us, it was somewhere new, for him, it felt much like home. For five people, it averaged out to $10 for the whole weekend (not including the food we bought). Who can beat that, though?? We made delicious campfire food in aluminum foil, and went for a beautiful hike on Saturday. Turkey Point Lighthouse is a must-see if ever you camp at the park. It's a short walk (a little less than 3/4 of a mile), and when you come out to the lighthouse, you're struck with the view of the bay from this amazing cliff. Also, the lighthouse is open on certain weekends of the month - you'll have to visit the website here for more information.

I had so much planned for this post when I originally got back, like the recipes we used, and other things to do in the area . . . but alas, time has taken away the effort I would have put into it on the Monday after.

The link to Elk Neck State Park's website is here - I do encourage you, if you're a Marylander or even an eastern PA or DE resident, to take a look and spend a weekend there. They also have fishing spots, hiking trails, and primitive camping options. Maryland is such a beautiful state, and I'm always taken back by its beauty in the changing seasons. Make sure, as the weather's getting colder, that you're staying bundled up, but that you're taking the time to enjoy the small things and getting out there to adventure!

Later this month, I think I'll be posting my top Christmas albums to use when traveling or light-seeking :) Happy Holidays! xoxo

October, Part I

I know . . . it's December. And I'm posting about October. It's embarrassing to think that I've managed to get this far behind. The truth is I've been struggling with reasonable life management this semester - time management, monetary management . . . I'm losing control of my life. (lol - it's not that serious.)

Hancock, MD

Anyway, the first post from October is about Senior Survival. As a Senior Class Sponsor this year, I'm part responsible for 26 young people. Since we're a smaller private academy, we get to do cool things like take a class trip or have field trips that are more intimate and less crazy. Something they do every year is this thing called Senior Survival. It's essentially a weekend of "roughing it" and allowing for class bonding. One of the other sponsors (there are three of us total) decided it would be nice to bike ~75 miles of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal that follows the Potomac River. We started at McCoy's Ferry in MD and stopped at Spring Gap, MD. A small group of three continued on to the beginning in Cumberland.

Hancock, MD

I, however, did not bike. The other sponsor ended up having a serious form of the flu, and just couldn't make it on the trip. His job was to drive a chase vehicle with everyone's crap in it (food, sleeping stuff, etc.), and when I say chase vehicle, I mean a mini-bus. I had never driven this vehicle, and it always daunted me when I thought about driving it, but alas. It became my job. Stupid me didn't pack a book or homework because it happened all kind of last-minute, and cell phone service was rough, but it ended up being a good trip.

If ever you want to plan a biking trip along the C&O Canal, October is definitely a wonderful time to do it. It's just getting chilly and the leaves have started to change. The scenery that I did see was beautiful! But avoiding the sore rump was also a pleasant positive of getting to drive the bus. Always check with your local National Park Service for advisories, tips, and helpful information to stay safe. And, if biking, always have someone chasing you in a vehicle with medical and biking supplies in case something happens. Someone should always know where you'll be!

I hope your holiday season is going well! Thanksgiving for me kicked off a wonderful start, and so far, the season has been wonderfully paced - not too fast, and certainly never too slow. Happy Adventuring! xoxo

The seniors that survived!