week 16

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

106. apr 30. give an anonymous donation to a person or family in need the organization or charity of your choice » I always find myself saying, I want to donate to that cause, or do something to help this cause, but never seem to get around to it…  So it's making my heart happy to know that this year, I am finally turning my words into action!
107. may 1. learn your local barista's name and use it » Hi Valerie at Starbucks in Moore!!
108. may 2. try something new » Another good deed for the back of the book!  (I mean, how is this one not in there already??)  I went to my first ever crawfish boil today!  It was fun in the sun with a few great friends.  And you know what?  I finally ate a crawfish.  I said I never would, (I think it's more about knowing the poor things were just alive), but my girlfriend was kind enough to peel me one so I could try it.  Pretty tasty!!
109. may 3. don't double book yourself » Remember, this doesn't just apply to work (as in booking two appointments at the same time).  For me it was about saying no.  And it was to my Grandmother no less (I know, I'm a terrible person!!).  She comes down to visit me quite often, but this time I asked her if she could push out her visit for a few days, because I really needed to buckle down and get some editing finished for a family session.  And because even though I know she doesn't need entertaining… I knew I would feel bad spending hours in front of the computer & not being able to chit-chat with her.  And without any distractions (except for the four-legged kind wanting to be in my lap) I actually finished earlier than expected!  
110. may 4. go to an independent bookstore, movie, or business » A big shout out to Blue Seven!  I seriously just love that place.
111. may 5. smile at kids or give them a silly face to distract them and give their parents a moment of reprieve » let's just say teething is no fun for anyone.
112. may 6. pay attention » I'm guessing this one is meant more for paying attention during a conversation, or something to that effect…  But I am using it for tornado season.  Sometimes, I just really become reliant on my hubby for weather updates, and to just keep me safe in general.  So when he isn't home, I find myself panicking a little bit more.  Our weather here in Oklahoma right now is seriously no joke.  So today, I kept my eyes glued to the news (which I NEVER watch), and prepped the storm shelter, and had a plan.  (Which included getting down there twice this evening!!)  Stay safe friends!

first ever crawfish boil, fresh from the pot!

week 15

one good deed a day

an ongoing journal of a few good deeds throughout this year

99. apr 23. learn how to change a tire so you can do it yourself or someday help out a stranger in need » okay, so this is a bit of a cheat day, because I learned how to do this a really long time ago… but good skill to know, especially if you drive a car!
100. apr 24. stop and pet a dog and say hello to the owner » I keep running into a couple on our walks that also has a pretty new rescue pup.  The were struggling with her at first, she has a bit of a protection/aggression issue, but I love seeing how much they've worked with her and just how far she's come!
101. apr 25. offer your car truck to a friend without wheels that needs to move big furniture » My only wish is that I could have lent a hand as well, but I know just having the truck helped greatly.
102. apr 26. make signs for the trash, recycling, and compost so it's clear what goes where » Calling all label maker lovers everywhere!!
103. apr 27. donate a little bit of money to aid disaster-relief work somewhere in the world » You may remember me boasting about my cousin's upcoming climb on Mt. Everest.  Well the Nepal Earthquake pretty much gave our entire family a heart attack, because it occurred during her ascension!  She is safe, thank goodness.  So this good deed seemed to peek out of the book right when help was needed.  I hope you'll consider making a donation as well.
104. apr 28. don't eat meat today » pretty excited to have discovered the sofritas at Chipotle (and loving that their menu is now GMO free).  Well let's just say everyone that tried mine, had no idea it wasn't meat!!  Bet you can't tell what it really is!
105. apr 29.  learn how to say "thank-you" in other languages so you can thank people in their native tongues » I've always appreciated when someone can't speak our language, but I can see that they are trying…  It may not be easy, but it shows respect.  Of course I do my best to return the favor when I am speaking to someone knowing that English isn't their first language.  It is so funny to see how tickled they get just to hear me say a few of their words!  -Danke, Merci, Gracias, Kheili Mamnoon!!  Any idea which language the last one is??

I bought the little one her very own pool and honestly thought that since she was still a puppy, I may regret the decision…  But it wasn't the flying leap into the water I had expected, hah!!  We're still working on getting in the pool, so for now it's just bobbing for toys!

bake & take - graphic + web design

A client of mine's been coming to me for a variety of lessons, and I'm pleased to say we have struck up a happy little friendship!  So when she turned to me asking for a blog re-design… of course I jumped right on it!  Every week she pops in her kitchen and bakes up the most wonderful, yummie delights!  And I get to sample them… naturally, it's only fair.  I am currently claiming that her lemon scones were out of this world.  Honestly, I never even told my hubby about them, all because I didn't want to share!!  What!!?  Don't judge me.  Please see number 17- random things about me.  Anyways, I wanted to share her blog with all its fabulous recipes and the new re-design with you all!  bake and take - the blog  -by Gwyn Day