This and That

Hi!

I hope you had a lovely Christmas holiday if Christmas is your thing.

We're still celebrating Christmas around here, and I enjoy every second of my Christmas home.

However, I'm looking forward to the new year and chose this paired-down paper planner I found at Target. Winter skin got you down? I've added these two new products to my skincare routine. I am enjoying them and feel compelled to share these two products. The first is Aveeno's Calm And Restore Oat Serum. The other product is from L'oreal's Revitalift line. It's the Hyaluronic Acid Serum - *Quick tip - rub this on your lips and follow with your lip balm for lips that aren't dry or cracked. It all helps heal cracked and chapped winter lips.Help keep the air moist in your home with a humidifier. I'm using this one bedside, and it works great. It is reasonably priced and also doesn't look horrible on my bedside table.I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I read very little this year. My goal is to get back to my old reading habits. If you, like me, wish to boost your reading routine, here is an excellent list to get you started.I love a good furniture transformation and testing out new paints while I do it. I recently discovered this paint on Pinterest. I'm itching to try it.Is one of your new year's goals to stop procrastinating? Mine too! Check out this article for some helpful/apparent tips.I am currently giving Joan Didion's book of essays a re-read. She passed away recently, and I wanted to give her words a fresh read with my more aged perspective. If you're looking for a book to add to your TBR list - Add, Slouching Towards Bethlehem, you won't regret it. My favorite sweatshirt. I want all the colors. Speaking of color, I want to wear this sweater-like every day. It's so bright and cheerful, and I am in love.Santa gifted my daughter this Teepee tent, and she loves it.

This and That

How are you doing? We've been busy making some small changes in our home. It's nearly a year since we bought the place, and through we painted my office, and the kids' bedrooms, that was all we did as far as the interior. It is so nice to FINALLY put our own taste into our home.This week Autumn exploded here in the south of Maryland. It was absolutely breathtaking.My husband took advantage of the long Veterans' Day weekend he had and began to paint the front rooms of our house. We and when I say we (I mean he) painted our first bathroom and replaced the vanity. I've got a new light fixture and ___ he still needs to put in. We're also updating the light switches and outlets. Our house was built in the late 90's and they are this almond color that no one likes. Once everything is all done, I'll share pictures and colors.This No-Knead bread from Martha Stewart is what a carbavore's dream. Watch her make it on YouTube here. I'm serving on Thanksgiving.If you're looking for a new read, you may find something on this list of best new books to read in November.LEGO's customer service is top notch.If you like photos this app is fun!My husband sent me this article. If you like history and archeology. Check it out.My mom moved in with us last November, she brought her two dogs and all of her house plants. Which means we have a lot of plants. I've decided to try out something to make them more of a feature in a big window in our kitchen. It involves this clothes rack. I haven't recieved it yet, so I'm a bit nervous as to it's quality, but *fingers crossed* it will be good enough for this plant project, I've got in mind. Well, that's it for now.I'm praying for you!xo nicóle

This and That

This past week was full of fun Halloween activiites. I am honestly surprised my kids haven't fallen into a candy coma with all the chocolate peanut butter cups they've consumed over the past week.I love soup! We're currently experiencing some very chilly weather here in Maryland and this Creamy Gnocchi Soup  from Halfbaked Harvest, looks and sounds absolutely perfect for this time of year. It is on my "must make list".Check out this man who discovered a secret passage way hidden in his library. This folks is what dreams are made of!I enjoy rehabbing old furniture or upcycling old pieces for new purpopses. I am always facinated by Ikea Hacks. This one is so simple. An Ikea KALLAX is transformed into a show stopper!May we take a moment to appreciate this tile. I need a backsplash in my kitchen and I LOVE this tile, but it’s pricey.  Way more than I would want to spend. BUT it’s also handmade. The kitchen is the FOCAL point of my home and I REALLY love this tile. I like this tile so much I actually went and measured my kitchen to determine exactly what the square footage is. Me, being me. My initial calculations were wrong,  but I sorted my maths out and I would only need three boxes and that is with a LOT of overage. It’s still about $300 more than I want to spend. I have a special talent of being able to pick out the MOST expensive stuff. It’s a gift, really.I really love Old Navy’s Oversized tunic sweatshirts. They had me at oversized and tunic, to be honest.Do you have kids who love to craft or get creative. This Creativity Tub by Crayola has all the things. Santa is going to bring my daughter Ellena one for Christmas. You can bet your Elf on the Shelf on that one!I need a new pair of slippers. These Mocs by UGG are on my wish list.Looking for something new to read? Here are some book reviews for you to peruse on Literary Hub.I try to support Indie Authors whenever I can. This series by Bianca Scardoni I discovered I dunno, maybe two years ago on Amazon Unlimted, I put down my current read to start the latest installment (book 7.) If you enjoy paranormal romance, (it is tagged YA, but I think that’s only because the main character is high school) then you may enjoy this. Honestly, the main character gets on my nerves a lot, but at this point, I need to know how the story ends. I’m committed.Pride and Predjudice fans, here’s a list of movies you may like. I’ve seen several of them and I concur.Do you freak out every time you pick up a pen to write at the state of your penmanship? You may enjoy this article on how to improve your handwriting. At the very least, the images featuring all that pretty and neat handwriting are a soothing balm for your soul. (Or is that just me?)By the way, my absolute favorite pen right now are these gel pens by Sharpie.  I use them in this journal by Moleskine to write my morning pages.Last night I made garlands made from dehydrated oranges. I’m currently dehydrating some more because ladies and gentlemen I am hooked. Our Ninja Foodie Pro makes it EASY work. Plus it looks nice on my counter.I hope you are well.I’m praying for you!

This and That

 How are you? It's been like, a REALLY long time since I've posted any new content.I don't know if it's the cool autumn breeze or the fact that I've been creating art in new and exciting ways this summer, but I'm feeling energized to breathe some life back into this space.If you are actually reading this... I hope you'll stick around.I thought I'd start a new weekly series as a way to ease back into posting regularly that features some of my favorite things I use and love, and stuff, I am plain crushing on; but either can't afford, or can't pull the trigger and hit "confirm purchase" on. I guess it's my way of window shopping. I'll also share things I've come across that I've read, found inspirational, or just plain cool.Things will be kept pretty positive. If they're not, I'll be sure to let you know in advance.So here goes...Quote: I've been mediating on this quote for the last month. I ran into some challenges with my work as a Youth Minister and it's helping me to keep moving forward, despite, what feels like one thousand obstacles.

“Nothing great is ever achieved without enduring much.”-St. Catherine of Siena

Check out these hair ties. They are so chic.Need some inspiration? Watch this quick video on changing a behavior.How to Decorate with Roses, by Nell Whitaker at The English HomeI am currently reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. I'm not sure how I feel about it yet. More to come on that end.We are big fans of ice cream cake over here. This is a Turkey Shaped Ice Cream Cake, you didn't know you needed. Apparently Baskin & Robbins has been serving up this turkey shaped cake since the 70's. Why am I only learning about it now? By Tim Nelson at Food and Wine.I am a huge fan of sparkling water. I can't get enough of the stuff. Between you and me, I prefer it unflavored, but I won't turn down a fruit flavor fizzy sip. I just added a bunch of new brands to try because of this article. Proceed with caution if you like bubbly water too. We Tasted 75 Drinks from 25 Brands to Find the Best Sparkling Water, Period, by Naomi Tomky at Saveur.I love a ribbed beanie. I really want this one in this color.My husband bought Ellena and I a pair of these classics home last week. I'm not gonna lie. I love twinning with my daughter for stuff like this.How cute are these flocked Christmas trees in galvanized tins?I've got this fleece jacket in my cart for Ellena. It's cute right?That's it for now.Be well friend.I'm praying for you. 

Summer Hair-Care Tips

This post contains affiliate links.

While this summer may not be quite back to "normal," it does mean we can be outdoors enjoying all the summer season has to offer. Before you head out to the beach, we thought it a good idea to share our best summer hair care tips to ensure you will have the healthiest hair this season!Before summer gets into full swing, place a call to your stylist and make an appointment for a trim. When you trim your hair regularly, you encourage healthy hair to grow. Getting your haircut frequently helps prevent split ends and breakage. First begin your summer hair care routine with a scalp treatment. Healthy hair begins at the scalp. Whether your scalp is dry or oily, A scalp treatment is a great way to prepare your hair for the summer. If you have dry hair, we also suggest adding a mask to your routine. A maskwill add nutrients to your hair to help heal and prevent damage.Can't wait to hit the beach? Don't forget your SPF! Just as you would protect your skin when enjoying a day out in the sun with an SPF, protect your hair from the damaging UVA/UVB rays with a product with SPF for your hair. Itprotects your hair from the sun, as well as chlorine and saltwater. We also recommend wearing a hat. A hat will help protect your skin and hair from the damaging and aging effects of the sun. 

Virginia Beach-based hair stylist Dallas Hoegerl recommends keeping a leave-in conditioner in your bag to spray into your hair. She also suggests rinsing your hair in fresh water before diving in. Jumping into the pool with wet hair helps your hair absorb less chlorine. When you rinse your hair post-swim, add the leave-in conditioner which will help keep your hair moisturized. If you are a blonde, wash your hair with a color-safe clarifying shampoo once a week to remove impurities and buildup, which will keep your blonde looking fresh. If you're a blonde with an icy or cool shade, a purple shampoo is a must-have during the pool and beach season. The sun and saltwater will contribute to fading your toner faster; a blue or purple shampoo once or twice a week will help prevent any unwanted yellow or brassy tones. The summer months offer the perfect opportunity to let your hair do its own thing! Enjoy your natural hair and try to use your hot tools as little as possible during the summer. An anti-humidity spray or Our Curl-Enhancing product are perfect for enhancing your natural hair typeIf you have curly hair, hydrating products are your go-to all year long, especially during the warmer months. Our Curl-Enhancing Ritual products are perfect for enhancing your natural curl. After cleansing, follow with a curl-enhancing cream product like our curl butter. These products will bring your curls to life, prevent frizz and unwanted crunchy curls. Add the cream to very damp hair using an old t-shirt instead of a towel to remove excess moisture and let your hair air dry. If you want to achieve more volume,  use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Keep your just off the beach look all summer long with a sea salt spray. Sea Salt Sprays are great for any hair type. It will give your hair the effortless, "fresh out of the ocean" textured hair we all love and crave. Spray throughout wet hair and air dry for a natural texture. If you desire more body and volume, spray, comb through, and flat brush dry with your head help upside down to achieve maximum volume + texture.Rinse and repeat these tips for healthy summer-perfect hair all season long!  

Pregnancy Loss... My story

A month ago, I almost died. The baby growing within me did.

I was eleven weeks pregnant and had begun to bleed six days earlier. Because of COVID-19, like many others, I had to experience this visit without my support person. I feel a bit trite telling you how rough it was to experience this alone in an ER without my husband there, especially when so many people are literally dying alone... But it was rough on both of us.

I left my initial ER visit with a sliver of hope. The OBGYN on duty explained that sometimes a bit of bleeding doesn't always mean a loss. I was given an ultrasound, and they could see the baby there, but because of its gestational age, they couldn't pick up a heartbeat. This means I had to wait until Monday to have an internal ultrasound to determine if my baby's heart continued to beat. As it turned out, by Monday, it didn't. I was sent home to grieve and wait it out with instructions that if I began to bleed to the point where I filled up more than one pad in an hour or developed a fever, I was to come straight to the ER.

The week progressed as most weeks did. I kept home, worked, and let myself feel what I felt. This was my third miscarriage this year. The other two pregnancies ended as quickly as they began, and though I did feel their loss, all my hopes were on this one. This was to be my last shot at a fourth child. At 42, I figured it was now or never. As the eleventh week neared, I began to relax. The anxiety I'd felt whenever I had to use the restroom had eased, and I was starting to look forward to when we'd announce our pregnancy online. I'd had this entire image in my head, and it would be EPIC.

We never got there. That Saturday, I began to bleed.

I literally yelped from the shock of seeing the spot of blood on my panties. At that moment, even though I knew my heart didn't stop, it felt like it did. If I'm to be honest, I often feel like my heart is beating at half its usual rate.

Is this how a broken heart beats?

Six days after that initial spot, on Friday, 11 September, I woke to a gush of blood. With my three living children, when my water broke, it never gushed like it does in the movies. This was definitely a gush. The irony is not lost on me. I don't remember feeling panic; I only have a sense of understanding of how this was going to play out. It was early enough in the morning that my husband, who usually wakes first, was still asleep. I woke him and told him I needed to go to the ER. He helped me clean up and get dressed. As he quickly prepped our boys to watch our daughter, Ellena, I experienced another wave of blood. This time, it is much more significant. I went straight to the bathroom to try to clean myself up... My husband quickly got me another pair of pants, mopped up the blood that was on the floor, ordered the boys to NOT use that bathroom, and put me in the car.

I can recall my husband putting me into the car. I remember asking him to hurry. A few moments into the drive, I texted a coworker, explaining I would be out. After that, I remember thinking I couldn't hear well and my head feeling heavy. After that, things get fuzzy. My husband relates a story of my going into shock. As he tells it, I was unconscious, my lips were blue, and my body shook. He says he tried to keep my head upright and get me to wake up. He says I did wake eventually, much to his relief.

I can only imagine how terrifying this was for him. My next solid recollection is being in the ER and being short with the triage nurse and then apologizing to her for being rude. I was pretty scared by this point. Then things get fuzzy again. Next, I recall being surrounded by a crew of medical staff with their needles and cords and hearing something about my blood pressure being too low. I'm told it was WAY too low. I hemorrhaged. I ended that day in surgery. I'm told that the tissues from my pregnancy were normal. There is nothing that feels normal about this.

I'm still grieving the loss of a baby I'll never know.

Not in this lifetime, at least. I've spent the last month writing this post in my head. We never really speak about miscarriage. We never talk about how much it hurts, or how you feel like you failed, or like your body betrayed you. I'm not happy with the way these words formed. I imagine I'll come back and edit them. But I wanted to get this on the page now. I fear if I don't do it now, I may never. I'm honestly not even sure anyone will see this. This poor blog of mine has been so neglected. But here they are. My words about a story, I really wish it had gone another way. I am grieving. I know that much to be true. I think I may be depressed. Most of the time, I feel like I'm beneath a cloud. Some days, bright spots peak through. I'm holding tight to those moments. So tight my knuckles are white.

Passover, Plagues, and Holy Communion

I was recently asked to write a post on Passover for an ecumenical Christian Facebook group I admin. I love this group and was excited to write something for them. So far, it's been well received, and I am glad. It is such a great feeling when one can string words together people can connect to. I had to omit a big chunk of who I am in writing for a broad, mixed audience, not for myself. This is normal when you're a writer; I usually leave those pieces and don't need to return to them. This week, I've been really struggling with not being able to attend Mass and receive Holy Communion. It's Holy Week, and I keenly feel Christ's absence. I began to add to this little piece and work through my feelings as part of an Examen prayer, and oddly enough, by turning what was a post for a predominantly protestant audience into a very personal and Catholic one, I am feeling much better. It's as though by writing about Christ in the sacrament of Communion, I grew close to Him again. I didn't have any intention of sharing - this was strictly a personal thing. Still, I've been absent from this blog because of the incredible blessings of my work and the opportunities to serve my community through volunteering; I haven't had time to focus on it. Considering we're all taking a break from our regular lives, it was a good time to return. So here it is, Passover, Plagues, and Holy Communion, just in case someone could use these little words I made sentences out of.

THIS PASSOVER

For the first time in recent memory, nearly every nation globally will be gathered in their own homes, sheltering from a plague, during PASSOVER. 

 "But for you, the blood will mark the houses where you are. Seeing the blood, I will pass over you; thereby, when I strike the land of Egypt, no destructive blow will come upon you.This day will be a day of remembrance for you, which your future generations will celebrate with pilgrimage to the Lord; you will celebrate it as a statute forever." Exodus 12:13-14

When we receive Holy Communion, we're intimately united with Jesus Christ. He becomes part of us. When we take part in the sacrament of Holy Communion, we express our unity with Christ and our union with Catholics the world over. The last meal Jesus shared with His disciples was a Passover meal, where he specifically asked us to become one in body and spirit with Him. His greatest desire and ultimate sacrifice was to unite His body, blood, soul, and divinity to our own. This Passover, the Jewish people will celebrate God's deliverance of their ancestors from death in Egypt, and we will celebrate God's promise to deliver us from our mortal deaths. Through His sacrifice on the Holy Cross, through His blood, our world will be saved from this plague and any others to come. As we celebrate His defeat over death this Easter, we may forgo our fancy hats and Sunday best, for sweats and slippers as we sit in our homes, and not with our church families. We'll listen to homilies from a responsible, socially distant space. Still, our hearts will never be closer to Him or each other as we unite in prayer for this plague to pass over us all. Remember our unity to Him and one another as we, the faithful body of Christ, ask for His healing over the world. 

But Jesus, turning and seeing her, said, "Daughter, take courage; your faith has made you well." At once, the woman was made well. Matthew 9:22

God bless you, and we hope you are well.