Relationships: Staying Close

Relationships come in many forms. There are different bonds with each relationship we have. From sisters, to spouses, all the way to friendships. All are treated differently on our own personal totem pole.

How do you keep them all close to your heart without losing yourself in pleasing everyone?

I for one used to have trouble letting go. I'd do things for everyone else and would also forget about myself. In doing so I lost what I loved most, being myself. When you become friends with someone you shouldn't conform to their likes, it's what makes you different that draws them to you.

How does one stay close if they're so far away?

One of my sisters lives in another state. Staying close is impossible when it comes to distance but through our actions we show we care. She'll send pictures of my niece and her cats, whatever is happening in her life at the moment. I reciprocate and through that a bond remains.

I have some friends who are into sports and others into spa days. I allow myself at least once or twice a month to do something fun for me. Sometimes I won't get to see spa friends, but we are all busy, beating yourself up about ruins the fun. Pick your poison and run with those friends.

I've learned by doing what I want those around me remain happier and that keeps me happy.

How do you keep your relationships close?

Holiday Tip: Creative Ways to Give Thanks

I love the holidays. This time of year is my favorite. Everyone getting together and sharing what they're most thankful for!

This year we're having Thanksgiving at my apartment. I'm hoping next year I'll get to move into a house and have a nice big dinner, but for now it'll be chilling in the living room watching the Macy's Day Parade as all the fixings are prepared!!!

This week I want to share creative ways to give thanks this holiday season!!! Better Homes and Garden nailed it this year!!

1. Thankful Centerpiece: Make decorating the table a group effort. For the centerpiece, fill a serving platter with unshelled nuts, arrange colorful fruit on top and insert artificial berry sprigs. Then ask guests to add to the arrangement by writing what they're thankful for on paper leaves and tucking them into the centerpiece.

2. Drink Tags: Print out their free leaf-shape patter onto fall-color papers, cut out, and punch a hole at the base of each leaf. Ask guests to pick a leaf and write a word or short phrase describing something they're thankful for, such as "family" or "good health". Attach leaves to the wineglass stems using lengths of gold cord or raffia.

3. Simple Notes: Express your gratitude for individual guests with a quick note of thanks. Use adorable thank you cards for those sweet words on the inside.

For more amazing ideas check out the rest of their creativness this holiday season!

Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake

This dish is DELICIOUS! I love finding new simple recipes to grace our kitchen. I don't get near enough variety when I'm at home and we don't always want to eat out to enjoy a nice meal. Thank goodness Pinterest exists where I can find amazing recipes.

This weeks comes from TastyKitchen.com. Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake with black beans and corn... doesn't it look amazing?

Things you'll need:

• 2 whole Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
• 4 cups Cooked Brown Rice
• ¾ cups Frozen Corn
• 15 ounces, fluid Can Black Beans, Drained And Rinsed
• 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (or Sour Cream)
• 4 ounces, fluid Can Green Chilis
• ½ cups Salsa
• 1 cup Low-fat Cheddar Cheese, Plus More For Topping
• 2 Tablespoons Fresh Cilantro For Garnish

Directions:


Preheat oven to 350F. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except for cilantro and mix thoroughly to combine. Make sure the yogurt and cheese are stirred in throughout the entire bowl. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Transfer to an oven-safe dish and top with extra cheese if you would like. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
To make this process easier, I always have cooked chicken on hand, and use Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice. If you have those two things, this can be throw together in a matter of minutes! It can also easily be made ahead of time and reheated.

Realtionships - Getting Married

Today is a very special occasion. My dad is getting re-married.

Love is a funny thing. It comes and go if you don't keep it fresh. If you don't have those dates every once in a while the fire burns out and you're left with nothing but a roommate. Though my mom and dad didn't work out I want nothing but happiness for both of them.

His now-wife decided that 11/11/11 was the perfect day to get wed. We'll be enjoying a quiet ceremony followed by a nice dinner just us family.

It's a great time for you to surround yourself with those you love. My husband and I had the best wedding because everyone near and dear to us showed up and celebrated with us. The happiest moments are when you're with loved ones.

So enjoy your day and love one another. I'll see you next week for Monday's recipe!

Love of Books: Cover Art 3

Happy Wednesday! Another rendition of my favorite posts of the week! Some really great cover art to be shared here today by some uber fabulous authors!!! I believe I'll have you RUNNING to amazon.com to place your orders! So let's get started!

Here, Home, Hope by Karia Rouda - Price $11.25 (ebook is also available) - Buy

Stay by Allie Larkin - Price $10.38 (ebook is also available) - Buy

Best Kept Secret by Amy Hatvany - Price $10.20 (ebook is also available) - Buy

My Life in Loubies by Erica Negi - Price $11.07 (ebook is also available) - Buy

I ADORE THESE COVERS!!! They are breathtaking, amazing, and must buys just based on the covers alone. What one's caught your eyes?

Recipe: Zephyr Lemonade

I love an amazing cocktail and if you're not looking to go all out with a holiday Vodka Slush but want something simple and refreshing to enjoy, I've found the perfect drink! It's quick, easy, and goes with everything!

Things you'll need:

Vodka
Sprite
Sweet & Sour
Lemon
Ice

Directions:

Mix as you like!!! That's right, I will NOT give you an directions on concocting this delicious drink. It is to be devoured as you like. Every person likes theirs a little differently but trust me... it's all amazing!

Me Time: Wizarding World

I'll be here all next week:

Getting my wand power on.

Hopefully running into a few of my classmates from Hogwarts. Stopping in Weasley's Joke Shop for some great items for the party that evening and eventually apparating back to the beach house where a relaxing afternoon will play out by the pool -- with cocktails.

What are you doing next week? Something fun I hope!