Personal Procrastination

So I had a terribly hard time figuring out what to say about today's post. So I kept putting it off and off again. Then realized I needed to switch out my winter clothes for my spring/summer clothes in my closet. Well after an hour of that and only a small fraction of that task complete, I thought I'd grab a glass of wine and watch The Wedding Date. 
Then it hit me: I'm a pro at procrastination.

Oh yes. You are talking to the girl that would turn in papers hot off the printer {literally} in college. I even had one professor notice the abnormal warmth of a final paper as I darted into her office to hand it in with seconds to spare. 

I have a laundry list of things to do at home that have been on my list for ages, but I can always find an excuse to do something else instead. 

What's funny about my specialization in procrastination: I only do it at home. Not when other people are involved and definitely not at work {I'm a proud workaholic}. I procrastinate doing things that would make everyday life a little easier for me. Why? Who knows. 
Case in point:
1. I began writing this post exactly three days ago. I've had several versions, but nothing I'm really happy with. 
2. I've filled two bags of clothes to give away while trying to write this post.
3. I've watched three movies while drafting this post in the last three nights.
4. I gave myself a mini pedi tonight with my computer in front of me.
And now, with two hours to spare until tomorrow, I think I will wrap this up. I've procrastinated long enough, thought I still have two hours to spare :)
Tomorrow's Friday, everyone. Thank goodness! 

My Life in 250ish Words

{Oklahoma State. A big part of my life.}

My life has been marked by unconditional love since day one. Half my childhood was spent in New England, and I know that is where my deep love for my family was developed. Surrounded by countless aunts, uncles and cousins, my brother and I were born into a crazy Italian clan that taught us how to have a good time.

The other half of my childhood was spent in the great state of Texas. This is the place where I began making memories and {bosom} friends. My childhood in the scorching heat of Dallas was truly charmed. There, my parents instilled in me a sense of adventure and a desire to live a life full of experiences and challenges that would serve both my own wellbeing and also the wellbeing of others.

As a teenager, I struggled with the typical angst that those years bring. There was some hurt, a lot of tears, and a fierce determination not to let others bring me down or steer me away from my dreams. Those dreams eventually led me to an amazing university, life-long friends, countless adventures, a faith journey, and a dream of seeing as much of the world as possible. It also led me to some situations and people I wish I’d handled differently. But then again, I wouldn’t be where I am now, would I?

Today, I find myself in my dream job, with endless possibilities ahead of me. I continue to be amazed at the blessings in my life. I never know what tomorrow will bring {and it isn’t always sunshine and rainbows}, but I know that I will always strive to make each day extraordinary.

__________________

So there you go. My {brief} life story in a nutshell. Or more specifically, 277 words. I hope you are having a wonderful first day of May.

Sometimes...

{Sunset on Newbury}

...you need a day off after a day off.

Am I right?

I think so.

There's something about Mondays that take it all out of me. Energy, that is. 

So, I will show you a pretty picture of one of my favorite walks, snuggle a little further into bed, and polish off this lovely glass of Two Buck Chuck that I've been sipping.

I'll be ready for you, Tuesday.

I hope you Monday was as wonderful as can be, and that tomorrow is even better.

P.S. I will be taking part in Jenni's May blog challenge beginning on Wednesday. Check it out - It has inspired me in a big way! 

Sakonnet Vineyards

 

If you've been reading for a while, you know getting lost and wandering New England is one of my favorite pastimes. If you're new, well, now you know.

My brother and I took a little afternoon drive last weekend and wound up at the lovely property of Sakonnet Vineyards in Rhode Island. RI has some really lovely little vineyards that dot the coastline near Newport that I have mentioned before, but each time I discover a new one, I am absolutely thrilled. 

Sakonnet is a place filled with casual New England charm. The staff is incredibly friendly, the grounds are gorgeous {even on a slightly chilly, windy day} and the wine was seriously amazing. We tasted seven different wines, and were at a complete loss as to which ones to take home to enjoy. My favorites were the Vidal Blanc and the Rhode Island Red. Their Cabernet Franc was also to die for, and it had a unique bell pepper taste to it. So unexpected but really delicious! 

Another local gem to add to my favorites list.

Complimentary

Because I really can't get enough of the SoulPancake street videos. 

And I think compliments will help everyone's Saturday start off on the right foot after the terror, fear and ultimate relief of last five days.

Give a compliment today. You never know what it could mean to someone. It could be life changing.

Spread love today.

Please.

Thank you.

Unimaginable

{Newbury Street, Boston. Not so far from tragedy today...}

I have no words for the terrible events that have stuck my city today.

Each time I try to articulate my feelings, I'm at a loss for words.

The only word that I keep coming up with is unimaginable.

So I will pray.

Pray for the eight year old angel. Pray for the other poor soul that was taken too soon.

Pray for the runners that I knew that were less than a mile away from the finish line.

Pray for all those suffering in hospitals tonight.

Pray for the people of Boston, our visitors, and friends that witnessed this terrible act.

Pray that the hatred in the heart of those that did this will be converted to compassion for fellow humans.

Also pray for all those who are victims of violence and hate around the world that have suffered today.

Back and {Nearly} Recovered

{This is what my Saturday morning looks like.}

It feels like it's been forever.

I'd say a week and a half in blog land is pretty close to forever.

You should see my reading lists.

I can't wait to catch up with all of you.

I had a wonderful time visiting my college friends in Oklahoma last week. It was truly a special time that brought me to tears a time or two. Or ten. Ahem.

I retured home early this week and brought a nasty little bug with me, it seems.

Today is the first day I feel almost back to normal. Just a few sniffles here and there. I'm glad to be feeling better again, because I can get to work editing my approximately 489798734 pictures from last week and catch up on all the errands/chores I have been putting off for the last four days.

Wishing you a happy weekend :)