Days 20 & 21

30 Days of Thanksgiving


November 20, 2012: I am so grateful for my friends. I love that we get together once per month to catch up & laugh uncontrollably. We had a great dinner and great conversation tonight. I am so blessed to be surrounded by such beautiful, talented, intelligent, and loving women. I don't know what I would do without you.

November 21, 2012: I am grateful to live in Kentucky and I am grateful for UK basketball! Go Cats!

A Week of Thanks

I am getting really behind on 30 days of giving thanks........so here is a week of Thanksgiving posts.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012: Today, I am grateful for Adam Scott. He is the only reason I allow my husband to watch hours of the Golf Channel.

All photos from adamscott.com



Wednesday, November 14, 2012: I am thankful for my friend, Stacy. I hope she had a wonderful birthday! Unfortunately, I had to work the evening shift & couldn't call to wish her a happy birthday.

Thursday, November 15, 2012: I am grateful for the X Factor. I am loving this show! This season is so much better than last. I have always loved Britney Spears and she is doing amazing as a mentor to the young performers.

Friday, November 16, 2012: I am grateful to have a job, but even more grateful to see the work week come to an end!

Saturday, November 17, 2012: I am grateful for Saturdays! I love sleeping in!

Sunday, November 18, 2012: I am grateful for a wonderful day. We enjoyed a great church service, then had a great meal at my parents home........with a visit from my brother, SIL, and my 2 favorite little people!

Monday, November 19, 2012: I am grateful for a 3 day work week!

Days 9,10,11 & 12

30 Days of Thanksgiving!

Day 9: I am grateful for FRIDAYS!!!! I wish everyday could be a Friday!

Day 10: I am grateful for good wine, good food & great friends. I hosted a spa party tonight and it was wonderful to have a relaxing evening with the girls.

Day 11: I am grateful for our American Veterans. I always cry when I see a man/woman in uniform. I am so thankful for the sacrifices each of them have made to keep us safe.

Day 12: I am grateful Mondays only come once per week!

Days 6, 7, 8

30 DAYS OF THANKSGIVING

Day 6: Election Day! I am grateful I did not experience a massive MI while watching the election results....not one of my best days.

Day 7: I am thankful for the gift of prayer. I am praying for God to guide us in the right direction as we are forced to make a life-changing decision over the next few weeks. We didn't want to see this day come, but it is here and now we must accept it. I am also praying for the 90+ additional coal miners, in our town, who lost their jobs today. It has been a devastating week.

Day 8: I am grateful to have a job.........for now.

Day 5 of Thanksgiving

Day 5: I am grateful to live in America! I love this country and still believe in the possibility of the American dream. Tomorrow is an important day for our country as we will ultimately choose a new path for our country or accept what our Nation has become. I am so thankful we have the right to choose our next leader. Over the past 4 years, I have witnessed so many friends and loved ones lose their jobs. My husband lost his job as a railroad engineer just 1 week ago due to decreased coal production in Southeastern Kentucky. He will have other opportunities to relocate within the company, but that means leaving our home and our families. Even if you do not support the coal industry, please think of the other businesses and careers that are being destroyed in this part of the country. Coal miners are not the only people losing their jobs. I have seen clothing stores, restaurants, gift shops, clinics, funeral homes and many other businesses either close or drastically decrease employees during the past 4 years. Our communities are literally dying. Please, exercise your right to vote tomorrow and save our country.

VOTE ROMNEY/RYAN 2012!!!!!

Thanksgiving

So I am just a few days late in starting 30 days of Thanksgiving......I will try to catch up....

Day 1: Due to an unexpected Halloween snow, Trick or Treating was postponed to November 1 so we were able to spend the evening with some of our favorite people. I am so thankful for my family. I have been blessed with great parents, wonderful in-laws, a kind & loving husband, a fantastic brother & sister-in-law, and my precious little neice and nephew.

                                Carsyn & Shane                                

Hank as Elvis

Carsyn as Belle

Day 2: I am grateful to know a loving and forgiving God.

Day 3: I am grateful for my friends. We were able to spend the evening, dancing and laughing with some great friends.

Day 4: I am grateful for my grandfather. We had the privilege to celebrate his birthday today. I am so thankful to have the honor of knowing a man who has made loving God his top priority in life. He has always been grateful for the simple blessings, loving and cherishing his family and never falling prey to greed.

Show Us Your Life: Favorite Beauty Products

I have not written a Show Us Your Life post in some time, but this is a topic I LOVE to discuss. I think I have tried every beauty product...at least once. Here a few of my favorites:

1. The Cleanser: I have tried too many facial cleansers from all price ranges and I always...ALWAYS...come back to this. It is simply the best.

www.cetaphil.com

2. Wrinkle Control: So I am in my 30's....and the wrinkles become more obvious everyday! I don't want to start Botox just yet, so these are a few of my favorite wrinkle fighters of all time.

www.cremedelamer.com



Seriously, I have tried so many eye creams from Olay to Obagi and the Eye Concentrate by La Mer beats them all. Nothing else can even compare. I actually see a difference in my skin if I forget to use this for one night. It is a miracle product......expensive, but a little bit goes a long way....one jar will easily last 6 months.

      If you are over 30, then you need to use Retin-A every night. This prescription-only cream can actually prevent wrinkles!

3. The Eyes: I use too much eye make-up, but I just love it!

www.lancome-usa.com

I line my upper eyelids with Lancome liquid artliner. It is very mistake proof.

 www.lancome-usa.com

I use Lancome Le Stylo Waterproof eyeliner for the lower lids. I have to use waterproof eyeliner & mascara for the lower lashes because I am an emotional wreck.

 www.lancome-usa.com



www.lancome-usa.com

 

I use the non-waterproof version of Hypnose Drama for my upper lashes.

 

www.dior.com

Dior 5 Couleurs is the BEST eyeshadow on the market. There is no reason to try anything else.

Even though, I have tried several different under eye concealers, I have never been able to find a product that completely satisfies me. If anyone has any concealer suggestions, then PLEASE post a comment with your advice.

4: The Face: I have used Studio Fix by MAC for several years and I love the product. However, as I am starting to age, I notice that this make-up will thicken over my lines and almost make them more noticeable. Today, I tried Bare Escentuals READY foundation for the first time. I do like this foundation because it feels so light, but I almost wish I had tried the original Bare Escentual foundation first. Please, let me know if you have tried Bare Escentuals or if you have advice for best make-up for the aging face.

These are just a few of my favorite products. I will stop now, because I could on for days about beauty products & skincare.



The Harbinger

I recently finished this book:

If you are concerned about America's future, then I urge you to read The Harbinger.

Perhaps, it is time for this country to seek God and pray.



We have a new addition!

I am so grateful for the new addition to our family. My nephew, Hansford Mitchell --aka Hank, was born on July 19, 2012 and we couldn't be more thrilled. You can see a pic of this cute little fella here at my SIL's blog. I know sweet Carsyn will make a wonderful big sister! I am beyond thankful to my brother and SIL for bringing another wonderful blessing into our lives!

GOP Vice President Contenders

As much as I would love to see former Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour or current New Jersey Governor Chris Christie campaign alongside Mitt Romney as a potential Vice President, I am certain this will not happen. The management skills of Barbour are unparalleled, but he has too much recent baggage for this election. Perhaps, we will hear from him in 2016. I also think Governor Christie will wait for a Presidential run in 2016.

I can really only see two possible contenders at this point. Number One: Rick Santorum is a strong possibility. Despite my past support of Santorum as a Presidential nominee, he gives a more conservative balance to the ticket. Romney also needs the support of Pennsylvania if he plans to beat President Obama.

Number Two (I predict this man will be the choice running mate): Governor Brian Sandoval of Nevada.

photo from Wikipedia.

Read more about Governor Sandoval here .

Nevada is another state where Obama is ahead in the polls. Romney needs this state. Why do I like this man?.......He has a background in economics, which this country desperately needs. When he made state budget cuts as Governor, he refused a personal salary increase and further agreed to a 5% pay cut to coincide with pay cuts experienced by other state workers. I think the American voter can support his lack of personal greed. (Information obtained from this article ).


Who do you think will secure the position of Vice President nominee?







Obamacare

Obamacare? Really? Are you kidding me?

I am so beyond furious, I don't even know what to say. I don't know if I am more upset that the Supreme Court upheld this insanity or the fact that I keep hearing people say, "I really don't understand what this means. I guess it is a good thing that everyone will have insurance". These same people are allowed to vote! This is not a good thing. This is the final nail in the coffin of the American economy. It's over! The people who actually work in this country cannot afford to pay for all the people living off the Government right now. How in the HELL are we going to cover the additional insurance costs of 30 million more people? I will give you a glimpse into the future......businesses will no longer be able to afford to provide health insurance to employees. People will be forced to purchase health insurance at an astronomical cost. Insurance companies cannot cover all pre-existing conditions for every American without increasing premiums for EVERYONE. I foresee the average American being forced to purchase health insurance for at least $1000/month per individual. The average working family struggles to buy groceries each month...They can't afford the additional cost of skyrocketing health insurance premiums. Physician salaries will decrease, therefore decreasing the number of working physicians in America. There will be too few physicians to care for the growing number of insured individuals, then the Government will decide who receives health care. I predict a complete breakdown of the American health care system, resulting in one of the greatest economic depressions in history.

I urge every American to please vote for Mitt Romney in November!

Patriot Voices

If you have read my previous posts, then you are well aware that I supported Rick Santorum. I have not written anything about the upcoming Presidential election since Santorum dropped out of the race, but now I think it is time to fully support Mitt Romney in his effort to defeat President Obama. On June 8, 2012, Rick Santorum launched Patriot Voices , an online community for Americans to come together and help defeat President Obama. As I look at falling stocks, a forever dwindling economy, and stagnant home prices, I am overwhelmed by the staggering need for rapid change in our country. Living in Eastern Kentucky, I have witnessed the coal industry come under attack by this Presidential administration. Thousands of coal miners have lost their jobs and cannot find employment with comparable pay or benefits. As unemployment benefits come to an end, more and more people from this area will be forced to move to larger cities. Our small communities are dying and few people seem to care.

There is also an urgent need to repeal Obamacare before the American economy is beyond repair.

If you are worried about the future of our country, then I strongly encourage you to join Patriot Voices !

Back to Reality

I know it has been months since I have posted a word, but life has been very stressful.....to say the least. I finally had a much needed escape to Aruba!

We stayed at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino and it was wonderful. We celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary while eating dinner with our toes in the sand and watching a beautiful sunset. You really can't ask for much more....

I finally had the time to start reading this:

All I can say.....

Awwww Mr. Grey.......I am fifty shades of .....READY! ........just kidding!.......maybe.

I will admit I was very intrigued and actually finished Fifty Shades of Grey and Fifty Shades Darker while on vacation. I started reading Fifty Shades Freed today. I cannot wait to see these movies! I also can't wait to see who will play Christian Grey. While reading the books, I envisioned Robert Pattinson or a young Matthew Mcconaughey. I also pictured Miranda Kerr or Alexis Bledel as Anastasia Steele.

Have you read these books? Who would you pick to star in the movie?







New Kentucky Product---Great for Grilling

Moonshine Marinade Baste and Grill Sauce

http://www.hillbillyspecialties.com/

I don't know if you have ever heard of this grilling sauce, but I strongly encourage you to give it a try. The taste is unlike anything I have ever experienced...........delicious!

You can purchase online or at these Kentucky locations:

Lexington, KY:

1.) Critchfield Meats
Zandale Plaza
2220 Nicholasville Rd. Ste 166

2.) KY Proud Market
410 West Vine Street, #220

3.) Windy Corner Market
4595 Bryan Station Rd


Louisville, KY:

Theater Square Marketplace
651 South Fourth Street


Pineville, KY:

Longs Pic Pac
134 N. Pine St.


Renfro Valley, KY:

Kentucky Music Hall of Fame & Museum
2590 Richmond Rd.

Hope you enjoy!!!



Please Say a Prayer

I usually don't ask for prayers, but I have some very important decisions to make this week. Please, pray for the Lord's guidance as I make this choice. Thank you.

Favorite New Discoveries

1.) Brazilian Peel

This item can be purchased at http://www.nordstrom.com/

The Brazilian Peel consists of 4 weekly glycolic peels. The effects are amazing. Your skin will feel like silk after the first treatment. The best part---you can do the treatments each week without having to leave your house!

2.) Naked 2 by Urban Decay

This was a recent gift from my SIL and I absolutely LOVE it! The colors are so light & natural..... One of the best gifts ever!

3.) Phloretin CF by Skinceuticals

This is a must skincare product. I use this before my moisturizer every morning. It corrects sun damage, acne, and protects against future sun damage. I cannot tell you how much I love this product!

4.) Dance Moms

New episodes Tuesdays on Lifetime

I really don't know how I have missed this show up until now, but let me tell you.......It is WONDERFUL! The moms are soooo mean.....I love it almost as much as Jersey Shore......

that's saying a lot!

Tell me about your favorite new discoveries......

Go Rick!!!!

Rick Santorum is finally taking the lead!!!!

Please read this recent article here .

As I said before, he is the ONLY Republican candidate who can actually beat President Obama!!!!

Please Pick Rick!!!!

I was thrilled to see Rick Santorum win BIG last night. I have come to the realization that he is the only GOP candidate who can beat President Obama. I like Newt Gingrich, but his baggage will kill him in a Presidential election. Mitt Romney seems like an intelligent, successful businessman and I have a great deal of respect for him, but let's be honest.....he couldn't beat McCain! How can he beat President Obama? Rick Santorum is likeable and demonstrates the core values our country needs right now. I know he is a Republican, but he reminds me of John F. Kennedy. He is inspiring and you can't help but believe in him. Hopefully, his recent successes will bring more endorsements and contributions. I beg of you.......PLEASE PICK RICK!

you can donate to his campaign at http://www.ricksantorum.com/



TAG

I have been tagged by my SIL to answer a few questions:

1. What's your favorite movie?

I have so many favorites: Steel Magnolias, The Hangover, You've Got Mail, Valley Girl, Urban Cowboy (just love Bud & Sissy)


2. How do you relax?

I love to take a hot bath each night when I get home from work........My favorite part of the day. I often add a glass of wine if it has been a really bad day.

3. Do you workout? If so what's your favorite?

Right now, I am at day 27 of Metamorphosis by Tracy Anderson. I love this workout.

4. Describe yourself in one word.

Loyal. People who know me would probably describe me as---Crazy!

5. What would I find in your handbag right now?

Lipstick, powder, brush, phone, wallet

6. What would your dream job be?

My first choice would be dancer, but with my rapidly advancing age.....I would now say my dream job would be to own a gift shop.

7. How many hours of sleep do you get a night?

7-8 on weekdays, 10 on the weekends.

8. Do you like Walmart? Be honest!

I hate it! I only go when I completely run out of food and toilet paper.

9. What's the last meal you cooked?

Taco Salad

10. What's your favorite vacation destination?

Turks and Caicos

11. Who's your favorite musician of all time?

I have several favorites: Rod Stewart, Stevie Nicks, Celine Dion, The Rolling Stones, Jimmy Buffett, Elton John, Dolly Parton......I know.....a very eclectic mix

12. What one item would you pack if you were on Survivor?

Mascara

She dreams of paradise..........

Oh how I love Coldplay.........and oh how I long for a vacation.

Work has been soooooooooo stressful. I need to feel the sun and sand on my skin......NOW!!!!

Here are a few of the places I would like to go:
(please comment if you have any vacation suggestions!)

British Virgin Islands

Little Dix Bay

Scrub Island

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Aruba

Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino

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Bermuda

Elbow Beach Bermuda

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St. Bart's

Hotel Guanahani and Spa

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Please, post a comment with your suggestions for favorite beach destinations, including your favorite hotels and restaurants!