Junie's Backseat Escapade!

Meet Junie the Bear. Junie is an extraordinary Teddy Bear and holds a special importance to a friend of mine. She was created at “Build a Bear” and was a gift to my friend with meaningful ties. 

If you're looking for a soft and cuddly children's story, this ISN'T it! So, turn back now if you want to keep your modesty intact. 

Recently, Junie was let out of the trunk to celebrate National Bring Teddy Bear to Work Day on October 12th. 

I had no idea such a day existed. Thank goodness this day exists for Junie. After what she's been through she deserves to have a day just to celebrate her. 

This day meant she could finally see the bright light of day, breath the fresh crisp air of fall and return to the outside world that she had once enjoyed. The confines of the car trunk may be a safer place, but it's dark, hot and lonely in there.  

Occasionally, she'll have flashbacks of happier times when she actually rode high and proud in the backseat. 

Pumpkin Spice English Muffin and Roast Beef Sandwich

Yes, it’s that time of year again!  The flavor that screams fall and seems to be everywhere…Pumpkin Spice! 

From pumpkin spice lattes to even our favorite snack food, tortilla chips, is jumping on the pumpkin wagon!  That’s right; I had a little sample at the grocery store of some pumpkin spice tortilla chips and, actually, they weren’t bad.

Other fall favorites are chili creations, soups and pot roast.  Which brings me to this creation that I pulled together to use that leftover roast beef sitting in the fridge that you don’t know what to do with.  Maybe you’re tired of that cold and blah-zay leftover roast beef sandwich, so instead the leftovers sit in a plastic container somewhere in the abyss of your fridge.

Well, it’s time to carve out a new smashing idea that combines roast beef and pumpkin spice English muffins. 

Wake up and smell the pumpkin! 

Just try this AWESOME and fall inspired sammie!

Rememberance: A Surreal Moment of Gratitude

Remembering the sweet crunch of a frozen chocolate chip cookie had served up a plateful of memories. 

It was this solemn and finalizing moment which caused a flood of childhood memories. Those random and simple moments that really didn't mean much then, but now surprisingly, opened up immense feelings of how grateful I was for those occasions. 

Photo Credit: Zipnon - pixabay.com

Death of a loved one can bring out vulnerabilities that you didn't know were there. It's an unfamiliar and uncomfortable feeling, but at the same time it gently whispers discretely letting you know you've been blessed. 

How To Discover Your Inner Tortoise

Do you need to slow life down? Maybe you're riding on the crazy train and you can't seem to get off. 

I'm guessing here, but I think most people do want and appreciate tranquility. 

However, sometimes this doesn't come easily for some. Inner peace and mindfulness isn't something you attempt when you're too busy working long hours, managing household duties, caring for kids, a spouse, or elderly parents. 

Additionally, you might be dealing with your problems, your family’s problems, your friend's problems or even your neighbor's problems.  

The crazy train keeps clipping along and not only are you riding, but you're driving it. 

Could you be denying yourself tranquility?